David N.
Yelp
My recent business trip to LA took me to Santa Monica. Our staff normally books travel, but with the flu swarming our office, I did it all by myself.
Just like a big boy, I set up own air travel (SWA-never again), rental car (Enterprise-definitely again), and The Hotel California (most definitely again).
I tried to book on-line, but it appeared the hotel was sold out. I called up on the toll-free number and the lovely Mary Bell booked my room on the last minute deal of $129!
Once I pulled up and parked in the last space on the property, I did have to take a breath. It's like The Bates meets The Palm. And, I fully expected to find Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon filming Beach Blanket Bingo.
But, inside it even more special. And it starts with the room key (see photo).
Clean room, fresh linen (not scratchy towels), comfy bed, even a microwave, it was nice. The best touches were the surfboard beds, real guitar art on the wall, and OMG, Ecossential toiletries that rival The Venetian Hotel. Soap, lotion, and shampoo, are environmentally responsible amenities with, no animal testing and are 100% biodegradable. OK, I did take the extras home.
It's not a resort, but you do have the Santa Moncia Beach 1/2 a block away. Right across the street is the Chez Jay, which I heard rumor that it's the local dive for the "Hollywood Crowd." Another day and another Yelp.
Lost one star at first for a nightly parking fee of $25, but I put it back five stars on since even South Beach's,The Palm, charges $29.
When I checked out, Mary Bell, the charming manager said frequent customers get a discount. I'll be back next month.