Los Angeles, USA
Where to sleep in Los Angeles
It’s hard to summarize the plethora of hotel and hostels options in L.A. From some of the most opulent (and expensive) hotels in the world to budget hostels to apartment-hotel crash pads, there’s something for everyone. Deciding where to stay will have a lot to do with what areas you plan on visiting, and how you’re going to get there. As usual in Southern California, a car opens up a world of options, but be sure to check the parking arrangement at your accommodations before you arrive.
Hollywood is probably the most popular option for those wanting to sight-see and chase their image of that world. Downtown has long been popular with the business crowd but is rapidly receiving a makeover with hotels like The Standard bringing a hipper crowd. Beverly Hills has some of the nicest hotels in the city, expect the prices to reflect its reputation. Sun and sand seekers can head to Santa Monica or Venice, while those just in town for a day or two might consider staying on the Westside near LAX airport. Pasadena to the northeast of LA is a peaceful and leafy city and a good alternative.
Contact
Landlines
* Pay phones are still scattered around town but slowly being removed since mobile phones are quickly making them irrelevant.
* Try your hotel or ask at the shop or restaurant you’re in if you need to make a local call.
Mobile phones
It is possible to get a prepaid sim-card account, but they aren’t cheap. The main providers are:
* Cingular. GSM 850/1900 MHz
* Sprint. CDMA 1900 MHz
* T-mobile. GSM 1900 MHz
* Verizon. CDMA 850 MHz
Internet
Internet cafes are spread around town and most easily found in heavily touristed spots such as Hollywood Blvd and Melrose Ave.
* Cyber-Dog, 7801 Melrose Ave.
* Zen Internet Cafe, 7264 Melrose Ave, (near Poinsettia Ave). $2/hour.
Are you ready to go? Than book it!
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