Hotels & Lodging – MLE Travel Diary

Best Affordable Hotels in Los Angeles With A Gym

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:00:00 +0000

When choosing a hotel in a city like Los Angeles, the options can really feel overwhelming. There are so many different neighborhoods and sights to explore!

Having lived here for 10+ years, I wanted to share my favorite affordable hotels in Los Angeles with a gym / fitness center; one of my favorite perks when I go to book a hotel.

I see so many people visit Los Angeles and end up feeling disappointed because they didn’t realize how much their location really matters. For purposes of this blog post, “affordable hotels” means a budget of $300/night, or less.

If you’re on a tighter budget than that, I would recommend visiting LA with a friend to split costs. However, I’ve also included a number of hostels in good areas that will be a more budget-friendly option.

I’ve organized the hotels by neighborhood, and from there you can decide which neighborhood makes the most sense for your trip!

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Where to stay in Los Angeles

Where to stay in Los Angeles really depends on 3 major factors: what you want to see, whether or not you’ll be renting a car, and how much time you’re willing to spend waiting in traffic.

Before deciding where to stay in Los Angeles, map out the top places you want to see. I would suggest choosing the neighborhood that’s closest to the majority of them to save yourself a ton of time and frustration.

Traffic can make getting around Los Angeles pretty tough, and unfortunately, our public transportation is not yet at the level of other cities like Paris, New York City, Chicago, etc. Planning your stay around the attractions you want to see most is essential to actually enjoying your time here!

I’ll go through the top 8 neighborhoods to visit, and share my opinion and my favorite affordable hotels in Los Angeles.

Miracle Mile / Beverly Grove

My overall pick without knowing exactly where you want to go or what you want to do is Miracle Mile / Beverly Grove. It’s centrally located so assuming the things you want to do are all spread out, this is a great spot to be.

I actually lived here for 3 years after graduating college and absolutely loved it. There’s lots of museums, attractions and fun things to do in this area!

If you want to take one of the most popular tours in LA:

Short Stories Hotel

Right across from The Grove, Short Stories is a super cute boutique hotel with a modern, laid-back vibe. The rooms are stylish and cozy, and there’s a beautiful little courtyard with a pool.

While they do not have a fitness center on site, they have a partnership with a neighborhood gym you can take advantage of to workout on vacation.

It’s a great spot if you want to be walking distance to shopping, food, and museums without staying in a huge chain hotel.

Palihouse West Hollywood

This Palihouse is a charming boutique hotel – think European-inspired design and rooms that feel more like apartments. It’s located on 3rd street – which is the cutest little street lined with great shops, bakeries and restaurants!

This is the perfect spot if you want something stylish and a little different from your typical hotel stay. Plus the social pool-bar is such a fun bonus.

SLS Hotel

If you’re looking for something more luxe and upscale, SLS is a vibe. The rooms are modern and moody, there’s a rooftop pool with city views, and it’s close to great shopping at the Beverly Center and the Grove, and lots of restaurants.

This one is definitely on the higher end, but perfect if you’re able to spend a bit more.

Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown LA is not my top choice for your stay; it is far from the beach (an hour+ drive in traffic) and unfortunately not the safest neighborhood. However, you can also find some of the most affordable hotels in Los Angeles downtown.

If you’re planning to go to sporting events or a concert at Crypto.com Arena, this is the spot to be! Check out the upcoming events at Crypto.com Arena:

Freehand Los Angeles

The Freehand is a super stylish, budget-friendly option with both private rooms and shared dorms. The rooftop pool and bar (Broken Shaker) has amazing city views, and they even offer free breakfast in the shared rooms.

It’s a great pick if you want something fun, social, and well-designed without breaking the bank.

Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza

Located on Bunker Hill, the Omni will give you that luxury hotel feel without the price tag. They have a two-story art-filled atrium lobby, heated lap pool, 24/7 gym, spa, and two on-site restaurants – Grand Café and Noé Restaurant & Bar

It’s a solid pick if you’re looking for easy access to The Broad, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Grand Central Market, and other iconic downtown spots.

Los Angeles Athletic Club

Right in the heart of DTLA, this historic hotel doubles as a full-fledged fitness and social club. It’s got an 88,000 sq ft athletic club (think lap pool, basketball, racquetball, spa, sauna, steam room, and more), it’s way more than just a place to crash.

It’s perfect for fitness lovers, business travelers, and anyone into old‑school charm with modern comforts.

Santa Monica

If you want to be close to the beach and iconic spots like the Santa Monica Pier, you’re probably thinking of staying in Santa Monica. Location-wise, I think it’s really well positioned, and is also really close to Malibu which is great for day trips!

However, to be totally transparent, in the last few years I’ve noticed myself feeling a little more sketched out when I’m alone in Santa Monica. I don’t think it’s necessarily unsafe, but something to be aware of, especially if you’re a female solo traveler.

You may see un-homed individuals around – they are usually harmless but because of this I would also recommend staying in a nicer hotel that has a front desk / security.

Therefore, you may have less options on a budget in Santa Monica.

If you are staying in Santa Monica, and want to explore Hollywood without a car, I recommend doing this LA Tour – it’s a great way to see all the sights without having to worry about finding parking or figuring out where to go.

Ocean View Hotel

Right across from the beach and Santa Monica Pier, this is a clean, modern spot with some rooms having an ocean view balcony. It’s walkable to everything and they even give you a free day pass to a nearby gym.

No pool, but the location totally makes up for it.

Shore Hotel

Right on Ocean Ave, just steps from the beach, pier, and Third‑Street Promenade, this eco‑friendly, boutique hotel is a really good option.

They’ve got a heated, solar‑powered pool with cabanas, a 24‑hour gym included, plus complimentary gym passes to Anytime Fitness/John Reed. Most rooms have private balconies/patios, and you can also splurge to get an ocean view.

This is great if you want to be steps from the sand with pool, gym, and ocean views.

Venice Beach / Marina del Rey

If you’re feeling iffy about Santa Monica but want your beach vacation and to be able to walk to the beach in literally 5 minutes – I would highly recommend Venice Beach / Marina del Rey area.

This is right below Santa Monica and you’ll find a lot more local spots on Pacific Ave and Abbott Kinney, plus must-see spots like the Venice Canals. If you’re a big foodie, I recommend checking out this Venice walking food tour:

Please keep in mind that it is still common to see a lot of un-homed individuals here as well, but with all of the pedestrian foot traffic I personally don’t feel unsafe here.

Hotel Erwin

Right on Pacific Ave just steps from the Venice boardwalk, Hotel Erwin nails that Venice vibe. Rooms have ocean-view balconies and retro ’70s flair, and you get free Gold’s Gym passes and beach cruiser bikes.

This is a great pick – especially for that perfect rooftop sunset IG photo at their High Rooftop Lounge! I actually stayed here a few years ago for New Years Eve and loved it.

Marina del Rey Marriott

The Marina del Rey Marriott is a laid-back, coastal hotel – just a few blocks from Venice Beach and right on the marina. You’ll get a heated pool, 24/7 gym, waterfront cabanas, and an on-site restaurant, Sinder Lounge.

Rooms are modern with marina or ocean views, and the location’s perfect if you want beach time but also want to be close by LAX.

In short: comfy, convenient, and great for mixing beach chill with easy access to Venice, the airport, and dining by the water.

The Kinney Venice Beach

The Kinney is a fun, artsy hotel about a mile from the beach and right next to Abbott Kinney, a street lined with boutique shops, restaurants, coffee shops and more. There are beach cruisers you can rent onsite or public transit and bike-share options nearby, making the beach just a quick ride away.

The hotel has a playful courtyard with ping-pong, a small pool and hot tub, plus a chill breakfast lounge serving acai bowls and coffee. Definitely pick an interior room if you want it a bit quieter.

Hollywood

Hollywood is a another great option if you want to be centrally located! There are so many iconic sights located right around here like the Griffith Observatory, Hollyhock House, Walk of Fame and more.

However, it is probably not going to look like how you picture it looking from the movies. I remember the first time I visited being so caught off guard because I imagined celebrities everywhere and it was definitely not like that haha.

Some of my favorite tour options to optimize your time around Hollywood:

The Hollywood Roosevelt

This iconic hotel is right on Hollywood Blvd and packed with old-school charm – Marilyn Monroe even lived here! The pool is gorgeous, the vibe is classic-meets-cool, and you’re walking distance to the Walk of Fame and theaters.

Great if you want a historic stay with a fun, lively atmosphere.

Loews Hollywood Hotel

The Loews Hollywood Hotel is smack dab in the middle of Hollywood. It’s super convenient if you want to be right by the Walk of Fame, theaters, and public transit.

Rooms are modern and some even have views of the Hollywood Sign. It’s great if you’re looking for an easy, polished stay in the middle of all the action!

LAX/Airport

If you’re only spending a day or two in Los Angeles, or if you’re coming specifically for an event at SoFi Stadium then staying right by the LAX airport is a great idea. There are a ton of affordable hotels in Los Angeles located right around the airport.

Most airport hotels have free shuttles to and from LAX (make sure to confirm on their website before booking though).

However, there is not a ton to do in this area so you will probably find yourself spending extra time driving around, if you’re planning to explore more of Los Angeles.

Hotel June

Hotel June is a cool, modern hotel that’s super close to LAX, Venice, and the beach. The vibe is chill and design-y, with a cute pool area, a solid gym, and a fun restaurant right by the water.

It’s ideal if you want that boutique-hotel vibe with solid amenities, a killer location, and no airport feels, even though you’re right next to LAX.

AC Hotel Los Angeles South Bay

The AC Hotel is modern, clean, and super close to LAX and SoFi Stadium. The rooms are sleek and simple, there’s a rooftop bar with great views, and it’s an easy drive to the beach.

Great spot if you want something stylish near the airport without feeling like you’re staying at the airport.

westdrift Manhattan Beach

Okay so this one is a little more south, but it’s a stylish coastal hotel that is really great for relaxing. It’s about a mile from the sand but right on a golf course (you can rent clubs), and they’ve got bikers covered too with on-site racks.

The pool scene is great (cabanas included), there’s pickleball, a solid gym, and a cool indoor-outdoor restaurant (JUTE) for local eats and cocktails. I actually did a staycation here and really loved it – the room views are great and you’re walking distance from a ton of restaurants and shops!

Los Feliz / Silver Lake

Los Feliz, Echo Park and Silver Lake is one of the most underrated, trendiest pockets in Los Angeles. I unfortunately don’t get there as much as I’d like to since I live on the Westside, but have an amazing time every time I’m out there!

There’s a lot of great attractions close by like Echo Park Lake, Dodger Stadium, the Hollyhock House and Griffith Observatory. Make sure to go on a Swan Boat in Echo Park Lake when you’re out here:

Unfortunately, there are not many options when it comes to a nice, highly rated hotel that also has a gym. I’ve included my favorite option which does not have a gym, but it does have a rooftop pool and is a great option if you want to stay in Los Feliz.

Cara Hotel

Tucked near Griffith Park, Cara is calm, stylish, and full of charm. The rooms open onto a dreamy courtyard with a pool, and the restaurant is so good, even locals go.

It’s perfect if you want something peaceful, design-forward, and a little more hidden-gem than scene. But please remember – this is the only hotel on this list that does not have a gym 🙁

Culver City

Culver City is a neighborhood that’s also in the middle (ish) of Los Angeles, but has easier access to the beach than Hollywood or Beverly Hills does.

There’s a lot of great restaurants, cafes, and shops in this area, as well as the Culver City Stairs – a workout that’s sure to get your heart pumping.

The Shay

Trendy and super well-located, The Shay has a rooftop pool, great vibes, and easy access to the Metro if you don’t want to drive. The rooms are modern and comfy, and the whole place feels social without being too busy.

This is a great spot for exploring the Westside or bouncing between DTLA and the beach.

The Culver Hotel

This historic hotel in downtown Culver City is full of charm and feels like a step back in time, but with modern touches. It’s definitely a little pricier, but the location is amazing, the vibe is super cool, and they even have live jazz in the lobby.

It’s a great pick if you’re down to splurge a bit for something special.

Let me know if you have any questions about finding affordable hotels in Los Angeles in the comments below! And be sure to follow me on Instagram for more Los Angeles travel recommendations.

mariss

The post Best Affordable Hotels in Los Angeles With A Gym first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

Sofitel Gold Coast: Review Of The Australian Luxury Hotel

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 15:00:00 +0000

I got the chance to stay at the Sofitel Gold Coast while solo traveling for 2 days in Australia, and it made my experience so amazing! The Sofitel Gold Coast is a 5 star, luxury hotel just a couple blocks away from the beach with amazing ocean-view rooms and amenities like tennis courts, swimming pool, guest laundry, and a small gym. But more about that in a minute…

First of all, I had heard mixed reviews about the Gold Coast in general, but it had been on my bucket list for so long I knew I needed to come. Let me just say, I LOVED the Gold Coast and would 100% come back!

The ocean water was literally the perfect temperature! I was there mid-December, which is the start of summer in Australia. According to a quick Google search, the water was likely around 75°F/24°C when I was there. So perfect!

The Sofitel Gold Coast was located right around some really cute shops and great restaurants. Public transportation was so easy and cheap ($0.50 AUD for all bus/metro rides!) which made it really easy to go up north to Surfers Paradise Beach, and down south to Burleigh Head National Park.

The Broadbeach area felt very safe to me as a solo female traveler. I had heard some iffy things about Surfers Paradise Beach and staying there, although I did not personally experience or witness anything sketchy there either!

But I digress, onto everything you should know about the Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach hotel before you visit!

The Hotel

Upon walking into the Sofitel Gold Coast, I was greeted by this really pretty fresh floral display! The hotel was also really nicely decorated for the holidays, since it was mid-December.

Also, since the Sofitel Gold Coast is part of the French hotel chain, Sofitel Hotels & Resorts, everyone was greeting me with a friendly “Bonjour!” (“Hello” in french)!

The Gold Coast reminded me a lot of Miami – there are a lot of tall skyscraper buildings right next to the beach, and the Sofitel Gold Coast is no exception! I thought this photo was super cool of the top of the hotel against a clear blue sky.

As you can see, every room gets its own balcony, which I am a big fan of.

The Rooms

With all of the rooms getting their own balcony, you really can’t go wrong with the one you choose! I stayed in a Superior Ocean View Room, and it was so spacious and comfortable.

The view was incredible, and I was even able to watch the sunset and sunrise from my balcony! Check out the view from my room of the city:

The Dining

The Sofitel Gold Coast has a few different dining options.

First, there is the Bistro On3, which has a full breakfast buffet to start your morning off strong. Breakfast was included with my room and was actually so delicious.

They had lots of different fruits and yogurt, an omelette station, pastries, drinks, breakfast classics like hash browns and cereal, smoked salmon platter and more. I also got to try vegemite for the first time!

Bistro On3 also serves lunch and dinner, and is available for you to order when you’re at the pool!

Room81 is an elegant bar with cocktails and small bar snacks. This would be a great spot to start your evening or go on a cute little date at the Sofitel Gold Coast!

There is also the more casual TC’s Bar & Gaming Lounge with classics like fish & chips, burgers, and club sandwiches. This would be a great spot to go to relax and catch a sports game!

The Amenities

Outdoor Rooftop Pool Deck

Although the beach is so close, having an outdoor pool at the Sofitel Gold Coast was so clutch! It’s perfect for when you want to stay outside, but want to be under the shade of an umbrella or one of the cabanas.

There is a ton of seating, I never had an issue getting a sun lounger! Plus you can order food and drinks directly from your spot by the pool, and they’ll bring them out right to you!

Tennis Courts

Okay, I have actually never seen tennis courts like this at any other hotel! There were two, full-sized tennis courts open for hotel guest use.

The Sofitel Gold Coast even had racquets and balls that I was able to borrow to play tennis in the morning! The concierge was so friendly and got the equipment for me right away.

Because I was solo, I unfortunately wasn’t able to play a full tennis match BUT I did get some cute pictures (featured above) and practiced my serve.

Also, I’m not even sure if anyone else knew about them, because I was the only person out there!

Endota Spa

If you’re in the mood to relax and rejuvenate on your vacation, the Sofitel Gold Coast has a day spa, the Endota Spa! They offer massages, facials, pedicures, waxing and more, plus a lot of packages if you want multiple services!

I did not get a chance to visit the Endota Spa during my stay, but they have really good reviews on Google. There’s nothing better than pampering yourself on a solo trip, so I’ll need to make sure to do that next time!

Things to do in the Gold Coast

If you’re looking for things to do in and around the Gold Coast, you have lots of options! I’ve included a few of my favorites here:

SkyPoint Observation Deck is a MUST!! That’s where I took the birds eye view photo of the Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise Beach. I would recommend going there about 30 minutes before sunset to get sunset views as well.
Spend a day at Dreamworld going on rides and getting up close with Australian wildlife like koalas and kangaroos.
Visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to get a chance to interact with Australian wildlife while contributing to conservation efforts. You can also add in some adventure with the high ropes and ziplines!
Hike Burleigh Head National Park. I spent about 2 hours here and the views are just incredible. There are also a lot of surfers you can watch ride the waves!
Try a bug roll at Rick Shores or Kirra Beach House – this is a Gold Coast delicacy!

Overall, I loved my time at the Gold Coast, and it was so nice to stay at the Sofitel Gold Coast! There is so much to do, and this was hands down my favorite beach that I visited during my 2 week trip in Australia.

Make sure to follow along on Instagram for more, and send me a DM if you are going to the Gold Coast soon and want any more tips on where to go!

mariss

The post Sofitel Gold Coast: Review Of The Australian Luxury Hotel first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

The Retreat Costa Rica: The Best Luxury Wellness Retreat Review

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000

Looking for the best luxury wellness retreat in Costa Rica, or maybe ever? Overall, the experience that The Retreat Costa Rica provides to its guests is unreal and unlike anything else I’ve ever experienced! I highly recommend it if you’re in need of some rest and relaxation, going through a tough time, or want to treat yourself.

From the moment we arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make us feel at home. Every single person greeted us by name and ensured we were enjoying every moment of our stay.

We opted for the Immersive Wellness Program, which included a Healing Touch massage, three personalized meals a day, a cooking class, a customized spa itinerary, and more! In this post, I’ll share my experience at The Retreat Costa Rica, highlighting my favorite aspects, the room options, dining experiences, and other amazing amenities.

The Retreat Costa Rica Highlights

Main Pool and Jacuzzi

Just looking at The Retreat Costa Rica pool again brings me so much joy! I absolutely loved coming out here to relax, read a book or hang out with my friend and the other hotel guests.

You can also see the daybeds in the back, which side note – these sort of trap the sun during the day and can really heat up! So make sure to put on your sunscreen, or avoid these during the day!

The jacuzzi is located at the far side of the pool; you get a really great view of the rainforest when in the jacuzzi. I recommend coming here at night or before dinner time!

Tours & Excursions

The Retreat Costa Rica offers a variety of private excursions so you can explore the beautiful country of Costa Rica! As nice as the resort, is it was really fun to leave the property for a day and explore Costa Rica’s wildlife!

If you’re staying at The Retreat Costa Rica for more than 3 days, I definitely recommend taking advantage of one of the many tours!

The great thing about each tour and excursion is that since it will be you / your group only, it can be customized fully to your preferences. So if you want to skip something, or see if you can add in something else, definitely let The Retreat Costa Rica team know and they can work with you to accommodate your preferences!

La Paz Waterfall Garden and Poás Volcano Adventure

We went on the La Paz Waterfall Garden tour. It was a full day, visiting the Arenal Volcano, grabbing lunch at a local restaurant, and exploring the La Paz Waterfall Gardens.

Unfortunately when we were there at the end of November, it was really cloudy at the Arenal Volcano so we weren’t able to see anything! I would definitely recommend waiting until your trip gets closer to check the weather to make sure you will be able to see everything you want to. The front desk can help you with deciding on which excursion to choose, depending on the weather!

For more information on the La Paz Waterfall Gardens and my time there, check out my recent post with everything you need to know!

Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna And The Adventure

Based on what I heard from other resort guests and The Retreat Costa Rica front desk, this excursion tends to be the most popular!

You’ll get to spend a full day exploring the Rainforest, including seeing a volcano, crossing hanging bridges, admiring giant waterfalls, and relaxing in mineral-rich hot springs. The thermal mineral pools come directly from a volcano, which is crazy and definitely worth checking out!

Beach Play Date and Surfing Adventure at Jacó Beach

This was another option that we really considered. The Retreat Costa Rica is located about in the middle of Costa Rica, so you aren’t able to just walk to a beach from the resort, which makes this excursion really appealing.

Jacó Beach is renowned for its world-class surfing and sustainable tourism. The tour goes through Orotina for fresh coconut water, then stops at the “Bridge of the Crocodiles” over the Tárcoles River to view large crocodiles. Then, you’ll get to enjoy beach time, relaxation, or pre-booked surf lessons at Jacó. After visiting Playa Hermosa and having lunch, you’ll return to Jacó to explore the local artist community, shop for souvenirs, or watch the sunset.

For all of the tours and excursions that The Retreat Costa Rica offers, make sure to check out their website.

Nature Hike

The Retreat Costa Rica has a hiking path on-site, with the full route taking you 2 hours through The Retreat Costa Rica’s organic coffee plantation down to a waterfall! It is also said that the hike has a palpable energetic impulse.

We did not get the chance to explore the hiking path, but heard good things. You can take a self-guided tour whenever you would like; just make sure you tell the front desk when you are heading out on the hike so that they are aware since there is not great cell reception on the entire path.

Alternatively, there is a group hike offered during the week with a guide that will point the fauna, indigenous plants and trees, and different bird species you encounter. Make sure to ask the staff when you check in when this is so you can plan accordingly!

Daily Yoga Classes

There are daily Yoga (morning) and Yoga Nidra (evening) classes that are included with your stay held at the Yoga Pavilion and Yoga Room. The Pavilion overlooks The Retreat Costa Rica with views straight to the Pacific Ocean on a clear day!

I went to a couple Yoga Nidra classes for the first time ever, and they were really transformative. It was very meditative, with a bit of light stretching.

This was the perfect way to wind down before dinner! And definitely something I want to incorporate more of into my daily life at home, although it is much less peaceful here in Los Angeles.

Loose Leaf Herbal Tea Bar

There is a loose leaf herbal tea and coffee bar right between the Library and the Dining Room! I have never seen anything like it; they had so many different herbal teas like chamomile, lavender, peppermint, green, earl grey, and detox teas.

We probably drank like 3-4 cups of tea every day, it was amazing! The tea leaves are so fresh and flavorful; it’s really cool to see how much of a difference it makes.

The Retreat Costa Rica Rooms

When booking on The Retreat Costa Rica’s website, you can choose from three room options: a Deluxe Room, a Premium Room, or a Luxury Loft. Each room is a bit different and they all have their own names. We stayed in Mandarina, a Premium Room and loved it!

The view was incredible, and the hanging chair was so fun to lounge on in the morning. Check out the view from our room in the morning:

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A post shared by Marissa | Affordable Luxury Travel (@mletraveldiary)

The Retreat Costa Rica Dining

I would really recommend opting for a package, or a room with meals included. There is essentially a personal chef on-site that crafts unique meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

The culinary experience is outstanding, with all food being organic, fresh, and anti-inflammatory. Most ingredients come directly from the farm on the property, ensuring a farm-to-table experience that enhances the quality and flavor of every dish.

What sets this place apart is the personalized meal service tailored to your dietary restrictions. I have a severe tree nut allergy that they were able to accommodate, which was a huge relief and added to the enjoyment of my stay.

The dishes were not only healthy but also incredibly creative and delicious. Here are some photos to give you a glimpse of the fantastic meals I enjoyed:

The Amenities

Vida Mía Healing Center & Spa

The Spa is world class, offers Ayurveda services and is located on top of a quartz mountain which gives it an additional powerful healing energy.

There are so many different service options, like acupuncture, massages, facials, Ayurveda treatments, crystal healings, scrubs, and even introspective workshops.

One healing touch experience was included as part of our package, and we also added on a bunch of different treatments like other massages, facials, etc. I tried Reiki for the first time and it was magical. I felt like a different person coming out of my treatment!

Hotel Gym

One of my favorite amenities at any hotel I visit is the hotel gym. I love being able to keep up my routine as much as I can when I travel.

The Retreat Costa Rica’s gym was small but had everything I needed to work up a sweat each morning. You can also pay for personal training sessions!

Reading Room and Crystal Display

When you’re at The Retreat Costa Rica, there are a couple of rooms inside that you can relax in. One of these is the Reading Room, which has various books and games that all hotel guests have access to at any time.

Another room is the Crystal Room, where there are a lot of these healing crystals on a shelf. The energy all throughout The Retreat Costa Rica, and especially in this room, is just magical.

Photo Gallery

there were lots of peacocks roaming the property - we got lucky and saw this one all puffed up!

some pretty flowers outside of the spa!

Overall, The Retreat Costa Rica is an incredible luxury wellness resort that I highly recommend you stay at the next time you visit Costa Rica, or if you are looking for a wellness retreat. It has everything you could ever want out of a retreat, plus a variety of wellness packages to tailor your experience to exactly what you are looking for.

Make sure to follow along on Instagram for more, and send me a DM if you are going to Costa Rica soon and want any more tips on where to go!

mariss

The post The Retreat Costa Rica: The Best Luxury Wellness Retreat Review first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

Best Place To Stay In Cambria: Blue Dolphin Inn

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 14:00:00 +0000

If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Cambria, look no further than Blue Dolphin Inn! Located just a few steps away from the beach, it has everything you need to enjoy a relaxing vacation on California’s coast.

My sister and I visited for the first time earlier this month, on our annual sister trip! We roadtripped up from Los Angeles to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a few days relaxing by the beach.

I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about the hotel, from room options to all the amenities offered, and things to do in the area!

Arrival

Walking in, you’re immediately greeted by the friendliest staff. They’ll help check you in, show you to your room, and are there to answer any questions you have!

They were super helpful and gave us a ton of great restaurant recommendations, as well as things to do during our stay.

King - Full Oceanview

There are a couple different room options, however I highly recommend booking one of the rooms with an Ocean View! It’s absolutely stunning, and the best way to start and end each day. You can see the sunset from your room; does it get better than that?!

The room was very spacious and the bed was comfortable. At night, you can hear the ocean waves crashing on the beach, which was really relaxing.

Amenities

My favorite memory from our time in Cambria was when my sister and I ate our breakfast on the beach! It was such a perfect way to start the day, although I wish it had been a bit sunnier!

There are a lot of nice amenities included with your stay, including:

Daily complimentary breakfast
Free parking
In-room Keurig coffee maker
Outdoor seating area with lounge chairs and tables
Sanijet bathtubs in most rooms
Fireplace in every room

Nearby Attractions

If you’re looking for things to do in and around Cambria, you have lots of options! I’ve included a few of my favorites here:

Hearst Castle; a must-do when you’re in Cambria. It is the historic estate home of William Randolph Hearst, and they offer multiple different tours daily here.
Moonstone Beach Boardwalk; perfect for a walk along the beach.
Seasonal attractions, like the Scarecrow Festival, Cambria Christmas Market, and more.
Vista Point; a very stunning scenic overlook. There are a ton of these along the coast!
Walk and explore the shops of downtown Cambria.

Planning to visit Cambria soon and have more questions? Feel free to send me a message, and follow along for more travel and hotel content!

mariss

The post Best Place To Stay In Cambria: Blue Dolphin Inn first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

Tulsa Boutique Hotels: A Look At The New Brut Hotel

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 14:00:00 +0000

I stayed in the newest boutique hotel in Tulsa, Brut Hotel, and am so excited to share my stay! Now I know you’re probably thinking huh? Tulsa? Where’s that? And believe me, I had similar thoughts prior to arriving at the hotel.

However, I had never been to Oklahoma and it’s a goal of mine to visit all 50 states! So, Tulsa here I come! Brut Hotel is absolutely stunning, and worth a visit on its own.

I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about the hotel, from arrival to dining options to all the amenities offered, and more. For the full room tour, check out this video:

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Arrival

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the friendliest staff ever, and this beautiful plant wall! The check-in process is very quick easy; they do a great job of having everything ready to go for you.

As an FYI – there are no phones in the room, so ask the front desk staff any questions you may have! Or if you have questions, you can text or call the hotel directly. Their contact information will be in the room hotel “welcome” brochure.

Sunset Room

I was SHOOK walking into this room – immediately felt like I was in Tulum or somewhere tropical! Definitely scroll through all the photos above – you’ll see the bed, living area, reading nook, kitchen and bathroom!

There are 10 different room types, depending on how many people you’re traveling with and what set up you’re interested in. I can obviously only speak to this room, but believe they are all stunning in their own ways.

Dining

On the property there’s one fine dining restaurant with a rooftop bar, Soma Tulsa, and a coffee shop, Dweller Cafe. Soma Tulsa is worth a visit, even if you’re not staying at the hotel!

They only serve drinks on the outdoor patio, but you can also hang out here even if you aren’t drinking! I came up here before my dinner reservation, and watched the sunset for a bit.

Indoors, they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner! I dined here for both breakfast and dinner; it was super convenient, and the food was good.

Spa

1820 Spa is located in the Elizabeth Manor building, right next door to the hotel. I went here and got a facial massage (my first one!) and it was so nice. There’s a sauna inside as well that you’ll get access to with the spa treatments.

They offer massages, facials, yoga, seasonal specials and sauna-only time. I recommend making a reservation in advance, but since it’s so new there is a ton of availability if you decide last minute you want a spa treatment!

Amenities

I think this hotel has pretty much everything you could ask for when it comes to hotel amenities. My favorites, of course, being the hotel gym and outdoor pool! It was nearly 90℉ when I was there, so the pool was PERFECT for cooling off.

Also, I was able to take the hotel shuttle to the airport, which was so convenient. Here’s the full list of amenities:

Outdoor pool
Free bike rentals
In-room coffee maker
Outdoor seating area
Essential Elements bathroom products
Free shuttle (can take you to / from the airport!)
Gym with weights + cardio equipment
Business center with computers + printer

Planning to visit Tulsa soon and have more questions? Feel free to send me a message, and follow along for more Tulsa and luxury hotel content!

mariss

The post Tulsa Boutique Hotels: A Look At The New Brut Hotel first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

A Look At The Grande Colonial: La Jolla Luxury Hotel

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 14:00:00 +0000

If you’re looking for a La Jolla luxury hotel, then look no further than the Grande Colonial! I had the privilege of staying here the past weekend and dining at their Michelin-guide restaurant, NINE-TEN (more on that below). I had an all around amazing trip, and some much needed quality time with my mom!

I’ll be sharing my experience at the 4 star boutique luxury hotel, from check-in and the room itself, to all the property has to offer, plus nearby attractions. I fell in LOVE with La Jolla, I promise you will not regret adding it to your bucket list.

Arrival

A huge perk of the hotel is that they offer free valet parking every day you stay here! It was really easy to just drive up and drop off my car. Everything you need is within walking distance, so I didn’t use my car at all when I was here.

Everyone here is so helpful and friendly. I really liked this little sitting area / living room when you first walk in. It’s inviting and a great spot to just hang and read a book or something relaxing like that. I saw a few people working on their laptops during the day here as well!

Ocean-View King Room

First of all…just look at this view. Oh my goodness. Everywhere you go in La Jolla it’s like this; my mom and I got our nails done and had a view of the ocean at the salon. So amazing!! It was so nice to wake up to this view every morning. Definitely recommend booking an ocean-view room.

The room itself was really nice; I love when they have desks in there so that I can do my work as well! Plus, I got to do my work literally while looking out at the ocean. Plus, they have complimentary drinks and snacks in your room, which will get replenished each day with room service.

Dining

There’s one restaurant on-site; NINE-TEN, which is a Michelin-guide restaurant (as of 2023)! The menu is always changing, as they serve local farm-to-table cuisine, so all the ingredients are fresh and in season. We got a ton of appetizers (featured on left), a couple mains, and the Half Baked Chocolate Cake to end with a sweet finish. (Disclaimer: I cannot have dairy, but this dessert is mom-approved.)

All of the food was so delicious. It was also so convenient to just head downstairs for our reservation! The Grande Colonial also offers room service, and the restaurant is open for lunch as well.

Amenities

If you love hotel amenities, you’re going to love what this hotel has to offer. In addition to what I’ve mentioned already, they offer the following:

Free valet parking
Hotel bicycles you can use for free
Daily fitness club pass to LifeTime La Jolla
Hotel golf cart transportation around La Jolla

I am honestly so bummed I didn’t get to use nearly half of these amenities while I was there, mostly because I forgot. Make sure you take full advantage!

Nearby Attractions

If you’re looking to get out and explore La Jolla and San Diego, you have lots of options! I’ve included a few of my favorites here:

Go for a sunset walk along the cliffs
Check out the La Jolla Tide Pools
Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Sign up for my mailing list for more, and drop a comment or send me a message if you are going to La Jolla /San Diego soon and want any more tips on where to go!

mariss

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The Best Luxury Hotel in Banff: Moose Hotel and Suites

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Looking for the best luxury hotel in Banff, Canada? Moose Hotel & Suites was amazing and staying here was the perfect way to experience Banff! It was the perfect mix of cozy, cottage vibes and upscale, modern amenities. Plus, all of the staff were so friendly and helpful – I really felt like it was a home away from home while I was here!

I’ll be sharing my experience at the 4 star luxury hotel, from check-in and the room itself, to all the property has to offer. If you’d like to look through my photo gallery of the hotel, scroll to the bottom!

Arrival

Okay first of all this moose statue was so cool! I really wanted to take a pic on top of it but there was a sign not to so I followed the rules.😁 Definitely makes it easy to find the hotel though! Then when you walk in, there’s a beautiful fireplace and lounge where you can hang out.

The front desk staff were so friendly and helpful! We got free shuttle passes that we could use to easily get around downtown Banff. They also had bear spray on hand we were able to rent to take on our hikes, which was so nice. Also, because it was my birthday, they gave us a little birthday card & free wine.🥹

Superior One Bedroom Suite

We stayed in a Superior One Bedroom Suite, which was so incredible! We had a balcony that had a view of the mountains, and was perfect to hang out on. It was also fun to have the extra living room space; this is where I would spend the down time, working on my blog or reading.

There was also a mini-kitchen with a fridge and microwave, fireplace in the living room, and stunning standing shower. I really appreciated their commitment to sustainability; they use local, biodegradable soap, recycle opened amenities, and automate their light dimming to conserve energy.

For the full room tour, check out my Instagram Reel:

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Dining

There is one Italian restaurant on-site, Pacini, where you can dine-in or get takeout. We did not end up dining here, but it was super convenient and you are able to make reservations in advance! Follow along on Instagram for the restaurants we did go to, and other recs!

Amenities

Moose Hotel has the top-rated Spa in the area, Meadow Spa + Pools, plus an indoor pool, outdoor hot tubs, sauna and gym. If you are not a hotel guest, you could still access the pools if you book a spa treatment! See the Photo Gallery below for an overview!

The rooftop was SO nice to hang out on, especially at the end of the night after dinner! The views are stunning, and there is so much seating and a little fire pit! The whole ambiance is so relaxing – like an upgraded, fancy cabin experience.

Photo Gallery

Would you stay at Moose Hotel & Suites? Drop a comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram for more Banff content!

mariss

The post The Best Luxury Hotel in Banff: Moose Hotel and Suites first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

The Best Luxury Hotel in Crete: Stella Island

MLE Travel Diary — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Looking for the best luxury hotel in Crete, Greece? Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa was amazing and I hope to go back one day! I stayed here for 3 nights towards the end of a two-week Europe trip, and it was perfect. My feet definitely needed a break from all of the walking and it was really nice to treat myself to an all-inclusive experience.

I’ll be sharing my experience at the 5 star luxury hotel, from check-in and the room itself, to all the property has to offer. I stayed in a Luxury Room with Pool View, and loved it!! For a full room tour, check out my Instagram Reel! Or if you’d like to scroll through my photo gallery of the hotel, scroll to the bottom!

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Arrival

Woo welcome to Stella Island!! Before you arrive, be sure to download the Stella Island app to make your check-in process smoother. Or they will just have you download it once you arrive, and you’ll have to spend a few extra minutes filling out your information.

This welcome area / lobby is so nice; there is also a bar to the left where you can grab a drink then sit and relax in the comfy chairs and couches. After you’re all checked in, concierge will take you to your room in one of their hotel golf carts!

Luxury Room with Pool View

We stayed in one of the top floor luxury rooms with a pool view. It was so nice to be able to walk out on the balcony each morning. And also in the afternoon to escape the sun! There’s a nice king size bed, bathtub, full shower, mini-fridge, closet with ample hanging space and drawers, and a desk to the left of the bed. There were also two sinks, which I always appreciate when I’m traveling with someone else.

These over-water bungalows are also a really popular option! This makes it so easy to relax right on your porch and you don’t need to worry about reserving a space at the pool. However, I will say the pool water was pretty chilly though very refreshing, if you got hot in the sun.

I did not regret not staying in an over-water bungalow, but these are a great option if you have more flexibility in your budget, or are here for your honeymoon. They’re definitely more private.

Dining

When it comes to dining, you have lots of options! The resort is all-inclusive, which applies to this buffet at Kimata shown above. This is so nice because you don’t have to think about where you’re going to go each night! Also, the food was delicious. I got one of these delicious crêpes every morning!

However, there are also 4 restaurants and 4 bars on the property, if you prefer something different, or don’t opt for all-inclusive. As a hotel guest, you’ll get 20% off at the property’s restaurants, which is nice. Make sure to make reservations in advance!

We actually selected half-board, since we weren’t drinking alcohol either, which is included in the all-inclusive price. We ate lunch at Makūti both days, which was amazing, I would highly recommend!

Amenities

Ohhh my gosh look at the view from the hotel gym! If you’ve been here for a bit, you’ll know that I LOVE to frequent the hotel gyms. Getting a workout in on vacation helps me maintain my routine and feel more balanced overall. This might just be my favorite hotel gym so far; it was so fun to stretch and do pilates on the outdoor patio area!

There is also a larger Sports Center where you can play tennis, beach-volleyball, soccer, and mini golf. Such a fun way to stay active on vacation and meet new people!

During the day, you can relax out by the pool on these daybeds. There are so many all around the resort, there is no need to run to reserve these in the morning. We were posted up here pretty much our entire stay. This was also close to one of the bars, so waitresses would come by offering drink service. All around, a very luxurious, relaxing experience.

Photo Gallery

Sign up for my mailing list for more, and drop a comment or send me an email if you are going to Greece soon and want any more tips on where to go! If you’d prefer to go to Santorini, check out the best luxury hotel in Santorini for inspiration.

mariss

The post The Best Luxury Hotel in Crete: Stella Island first appeared on MLE Travel Diary.

The Best Luxury Hotel in Palm Springs: La Quinta Resort

MLE Travel Diary — Mon, 08 May 2023 14:00:00 +0000

Looking to escape these gloomy weather vibes to a luxury hotel in Palm Springs?! La Quinta Resort & Club is the perfect destination for you! Also for all my bachelor franchise fans out there…this is where Season 16 of the Bachelorette was filmed.🌹

And if luxury travel is your thing, be sure to follow me on Instagram and sign up for my mailing list! I have a few luxury hotels on my list planned for this year (in destinations like Greece, Switzerland, Banff to name a few)!

La Quinta Resort Activities

La Quinta has soo much to offer on the resort, it is definitely easy to spend all of your time here! The highlights include a spa, fitness center, salon, tennis and pickleball courts, and yoga classes. If you want to visit either the spa or salon, I recommend booking an appointment at least 3-4 weeks in advance. Spots can fill up quickly and you want to make sure you’re locked in for your stay!

Additionally, there are 41 (!!) pool throughout the property. We tried to see as many as we could, but it was sort of like a scavenger hunt! A lot are hidden, smaller pools, which is really nice when you want some peace and quiet. Here are a couple pictures of our favorite pools:

Dining

As far as dining options at the resort go, La Quinta has a lot to choose from! We ate dinner at the Adobe Grill, which offers delicious Mexican cuisine, including chips & guacamole to start. For a fancier spot, you can dine at Morgan’s in the Desert, which has contemporary American cuisine. There’s also Twenty6 with classic American food, if you’re looking for something more laidback.

Throughout the resort at a few of the pools, including the main pool, there are bars where you can order drinks. You can see my sister enjoying a yummy alcoholic smoothie in the pool; such a fun way to relax and enjoy the day.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re looking to get out and explore the greater Palm Springs area, you have lots of options! I’ve included a few of my favorites here:

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Visit Moorten Botanical Garden
Day trip to Joshua Tree National Park
Hike Indian Canyons

Sign up for my mailing list for more, and drop a comment or send me an email if you are going to Palm Springs soon and want any more tips on where to go!  

mariss

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Best Luxury Hotel in Santorini: Astarte Suites

MLE Travel Diary — Sat, 18 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000

If you are looking for a luxurious hotel to stay in during your next trip to Greece, look no further. Astarte Suites truly has it all! From welcome drinks to stunning views to an infinity pool, and not to mention their five star hospitality; this hotel can’t be beat. There are only 13 suites, so you are guaranteed a lot of privacy and peace during your stay here. If you’re not convinced yet, or want to read about our stay, keep reading…and for a full room tour, check out my Instagram Reel!

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Check In

When you arrive, you’ll be dropped off at the top of a stunning spiral staircase. (So, note to self, big carryon suitcases are not the most ideal for this hotel). From there, you’re greeted by the the most helpful staff, ever. I really am not kidding when I say most helpful – we were given a full room tour, and anything we wanted for the duration of our stay was a quick call away. The room has Hermès bath & shower products, so if that doesn’t scream “luxury” I’m not sure what else does.

After you get settled into the room, they will prepare a full welcome platter with drinks for you! Danny had this green smoothie, and I got a peach bellini hehe. We sat by the infinity pool on a pouf and just soaked up the sun and the incredible view.

Dinner & Sunset

The pool closes at 6pm so after finishing our fruit platter and drinks, we headed back to the room to get ready for dinner! We had bought a bottle of rosé from a little shop down the road from the hotel, so enjoyed a glass before dinner. There’s a nice Greek restaurant, Aeolos Tavern, just up the road from the hotel, which was delicious. Also, glasses of wine are legit $3 in Greece & Italy. It is crazy, it’s basically cheaper than the water!

After dinner, we went back to our hotel to enjoy the sunset from our room! There is a really nice patio area attached to every room, and all suites face the water. This gives you literally the best view for the sunset.

We visited Santorini in the end of June, and the sun set around 9pm!

Breakfast

In general, breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. At Astarte Suites, the breakfast experience is elevated 10x. Every night before, they have you fill out a form with a TON of options for what you want in the morning – eggs, oatmeal, croissants, smoothies, fruit, toast, coffee, etc. And you also select the time you want your breakfast delivered. This was our spread in the morning:

Daytime

During the day, we just relaxed by the pool. I feel like sometimes when I go to Europe, I want to cram as much as possible in to the 2 weeks I am there. Which isn’t always the worst thing, because there is so much to see and since I don’t get a ton of time off of work I want to maximize my time there. However, it was incredible to take a break from running around and actually just chill.

They have a really good restaurant on the property as well, where we got lunch and these fruity drinks! (You will definitely start to notice a peach trend…I love peach flavored drinks). For all the Entourage fans out there – we met Johnny Drama and his girlfriend here! It was awesome, they were so nice. And that is by far one of my favorite TV shows, so I was super stoked.

As a rule of thumb, I would highly recommend adding a relaxation “buffer” into your Europe trips. Literally just a stop in the middle where you have no plans besides laying by the beach or at a pool for at least a day. It really allowed us to appreciate our time abroad much more.

Sign up for my mailing list for more, and drop a comment or send me an email if you are going to Santorini soon and want any more tips on where to go!  

mariss

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