Luxury Travel Advisor - September 2008 - (Page 26)

HOTELS Oceana Los Angeles attracts its fair share of fly-in players from the worlds of entertainment, publishing and fashion. Many of those jetting in for business intend a stay of more than a few days to make sure every “i” gets dotted and every “t” crossed on major deals. A favorite choice of these highpowered players is the newly refurbished Oceana Santa Monica (www.hoteloceanasantamonica. com). But you don’t have to be a mogul to enjoy a few days or few nights at this boutique property. THE OUTDOOR LOUNGE (above) Santa Monica privacy and intimacy of the corner booth. The intimacy factor is what gives Oceana Santa Monica its distinction; when it’s booked solid, it still feels like the familiarity and coziness of one’s home. This is partly because the hotel is in a quiet, residential neighborhood, which doesn’t make it isolated—far from it. The hotel is on Ocean Avenue, directly across the street from Santa Monica Beach and close to Palisades Park and the Montana Avenue arts district. Its serene green setting deflates the pace several notches below West Hollywood or downtown Los Angeles. is steps from the pool and features a wood-burning fireplace. Its charms are easily accessed by all. We call it high-end without the glitz. Our recent trip here reminded us of residential homes in Palm Springs, where the entrance invariably leads toward the backyard pool. This is the feel at Oceana Santa Monica, where the heart-shaped pool is only steps away from the lobby and concierge desk. The morning we were there, guests were already catching rays poolside as two Hollywood players huddled over a table discussing the fine points of a screenplay. Tables spill out from the hotel’s Ocean Lounge, giving diners the choice of alfresco or inside dining. The Ocean Lounge is exclusive to guests, so waiting for a table is never an inconvenience. Worldfamous restaurateur Jonathan Morr, of Bond Street fame, conceptualized the menu. We hear that the shrimp tempura appetizers and mini-hamburgers (each with a different sauce) are major hits with guests. Hint: The signature drink is the “Milkshake with a Shot,” made with a variety of spirits, but we recommend the “Sugar Cane Horchata.” The most popular tables are those along the windows facing the street and beach, however, romantic couples will like the 26 LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR | September 2008 http://www.hoteloceanasantamonica.com http://www.hoteloceanasantamonica.com

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Luxury Travel Advisor - September 2008 Contents Publisher's Letter Editor's Letter Provence India Alvear Palace Hotel Oceana Santa Monica English Country Houses Chewton Glen Summer Lodge Chilston Park Hotel Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago Park Hyatt Milan Intercontinental Montelucia Jackson Hole World Cruises French Riveria Spas Voluntourism Vacations Signature Travel Network The Pulse Profile Luxury Travel Expo Sightings Source List Leaders Speak

Luxury Travel Advisor - September 2008

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