Safe Los Angeles Travel During the Pandemic
December, 2020
With fall coming to its conclusion and many states increasing restrictions, people are eager to get out of their houses and explore their immediate surroundings safely. No matter how many precautions you take to travel, there will always be some risk of contracting Covid-19 unless you stay home. But as an LA based travel agent I can advise on some of the safest (and most exciting) places to visit near Los Angeles during COVID. All of the featured hotels and houses have either free standing buildings, their own private entrances to individual rooms, and/or strict social distancing/cleaning protocols.
For Those that Want to be Discrete and in a Suite
San Ysidro Ranch (Santa Barbara, CA)
Rates: From $875
Why: “Situated against the backdrop of the Santa Inez Mountains and with a magnificent panorama of the Pacific Ocean, San Ysidro Ranch occupies a unique setting on the American Riviera. Every aspect is conducive to just soaking up and reveling in the breathtaking surroundings. Originally a 500-acre Spanish land grant, the ranch has been a hideaway for those seeking privacy and relaxation for more than a century. Hallmarks of the ranch include the luxuriant environs and charming private cottages. The ambiance of casual elegance is complemented by an attentive and accommodating staff and an eye for detail. This is where guests come not to be seen. Whether it be a weekend getaway or romantic escape — Winston Churchill and honeymooners John and Jackie Kennedy are among the famous past guests — the ranch is designed for discretion. Dedicated to accommodate every creature comfort, San Ysidro Ranch provides an impressive list of services and amenities, including several palate-pleasing dining options with menus that offer classic favorites as well as inspired seasonal cuisine.” (from Forbes)
For Those that Crave Nature with Flavor
Calistoga Ranch (Calistoga, CA)
Rates: From $700
Why: “There’s only one way to get into the 157-acre Napa Valley idyll known as Calistoga Ranch: as a guest. Well, you could come as a guest of a guest, but then you wouldn’t be able to lounge about in a decadent spa robe each morning, sipping freshly brewed coffee on your terrace as you watch the mist rise off serene Lake Lommel. You wouldn’t get to spend a day with the resort’s acclaimed chef getting to know the region’s produce and traditional cuisine. And the only on-resort winery in Napa, Sotero Vineyard, would be closed to you, its crush rituals and collection of house merlots and cabernets reserved for overnight guests; if you’re lucky, an invitation to an elegant dinner at the storied Wine Cave might come your way. The exclusive Vintner Program, which brings the region’s most iconic winemakers to the ranch for private tastings and events, is also guests-only. Perks are endless—guided hikes through the famously beautiful countryside, poolside morning yoga classes, and the house Mercedes.” (from Afar)
For Those that are Amused by Views
Post Ranch Inn (Big Sur, CA)
Rates: From $1275
Why: “Hollywood royalty have time and time again made this cliffside beauty, on a 1,200-foot-high ridge in Big Sur overlooking the Pacific, their romance spot of choice. It could be because of the privacy of its 40 adults-only homes and suites, which feature salvaged redwood and sheet metal artwork. Or it might be because of those pick-your-jaw-up-off-the-floor views: you’ll have your pick between Pacific Suites, whose decks and tiled baths overlook the water, or Peak Houses, whose windows frame the Santa Lucia Mountains. Mini-bars are complimentary, but for those prone to cabin fever, there’s a Lexus convertible on loan for spins down the Pacific Coast Highway. Just be sure to ask the concierge to pack you a picnic lunch before departure.” (from Jetsetter)
For Those that Crave Relaxation and Restoration
La Quinta Resort and Spa (La Quinta, CA)
Rates: From $208
Why: “One of the oldest resorts in the Coachella Valley, La Quinta Resort and Club brings Waldorf Astoria’s signature luxury to the desert with Spanish-style casitas, world-class dining and an impressive list of facilities, including PGA golf courses, a yoga studio and spa. Built in the 1920s, La Quinta bills itself as the original desert hideaway—and it’s retained much of its original character nearly a century later. Set on more than 45 lushly landscaped acres, the resort is made of Spanish-style casitas, some of which have been part of the property since its beginning. Whitewashed walls, Spanish roof tiles and blue doorways and windowpanes define the style of this historic property. Ample space between casitas is filled with greenery and winding walkways accented by citrus trees.The 600 guestrooms and nearly 100 villas are located across whitewashed, Spanish-style casitas sprinkled throughout the sprawling property. Inside, Spanish tiles and a fireplace add to the historic charm of the rooms.” (from Telegraph)
For Those that Want to Stay in LA
The Peninsula (Beverly Hills, CA)
Rates: From $665
With one of Southern California’s most desirable addresses, The Peninsula Beverly Hills resembles an exclusive private residence built in classic Renaissance style. The only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star rated hotel in Southern California since opening in 1991, this iconic luxury hotel offers 195 elegantly appointed rooms with 38 suites and 17 private villas, nestled among lush tropical gardens. Indulge in the award winning Peninsula Spa and experience extraordinary dining at the recently renovated Belvedere restaurant – the only AAA Five Diamond restaurant in Los Angeles for 21 consecutive years. Although world-class shopping, including what’s found on famous Rodeo Drive, is just a short walk away, you’ll find yourself wanting to retreat to the enjoyment of your room or private villa nestled amid a lush tropical garden. (from Virtuoso)