ADORE creator Kat Minks shows you what a trip to celebrate yourself can look like in Los Angeles.
Finding ways to celebrate ourselves can be quite the journey in itself. As life evolves—with relationships, marriage, kids, and work schedules that seem never-ending—carving out that personal time becomes a rare treat. Over the years, I’ve made a commitment to honor myself by taking a trip just for me. Something I try to do at least once or twice a year. Sometimes the getaway is a winery or spa destination with girlfriends, but more recently I’ve realized the value of traveling solo to truly reconnect with myself.
Spending time with gal pals or family is always full of laughs and shared memories, but there’s something special about being on your own schedule. Waking up, enjoying breakfast in peace, and soaking up the quiet without feeling the need to keep a conversation going—or wandering through shops without asking, “Is this okay?”—turns a trip into a true vacation. It’s the kind of getaway that leaves you refreshed, with no need to recover once you’re back home.
In today’s fast-paced world, we’re so accessible and constantly bombarded with information, making even the idea of planning a celebration feel overwhelming for many of us. Some of my clients have shared that they barely have the bandwidth to celebrate others, let alone themselves. As a wife, mother, and entrepreneur that is that is a sentiment I understand well, and it’s why I find it essential to create moments just to be with me.
When planning this trip, I was reminded of the movie Eat Pray Love ( 2010 film staring Julia Roberts). It’s the story of a woman stepping away from the noise of life to immerse herself in new experiences and beauty. Of course, your journey of self discovery doesn’t require an Expedia booking to Italy, Bali and India [as in the film] you don’t have to go far to do that; but the trip can be magical when you venture somewhere farther from home. Though my schedule didn’t allow for a month-long escape, I managed to set aside four days to indulge in some much-needed time by the water—my happy place as a Pisces. Naturally, I chose one of my favorite destination Los Angeles, where I could enjoy bright lights of Hollywood and the roaring serenity of the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica.
Even if you’ve been to a place before, it can feel like a new adventure every time you return. Cities evolve - new places to shop, people watch and ways to move around beckon you - and each visit offers fresh things to see and do. For this trip, I centered my plans around one main event, which also turned out to be something I had never done before; attending an arena concert solo. When I discovered that Lauren Daigle ( www.laurendaigle.com), an artist who’s crossed over from the Christian charts to mainstream pop, would be performing in L.A., my plan came into being.
Attending Lauren’s concert on the day I arrived was an experience that felt both energizing and safe—exactly what I wanted for this solo adventure. I felt that once I’d chosen that focal point, planning the rest of my time was easy. I landed the mornign of the show. Checked in to a newly rennovatedHilton in Santa Monica. Just a few blocks from the beach and Santa Monica Pier. I knew I wanted to spend a good amount of my time by the water each morning by doign a vibrant oceanside jog and coffee to start my day. The concert however, was downtown at the vibrant L.A. Live district, surrounded by bars, restaurants, and the Crypto Arena. As much as I love the city’s energy, my heart was calling me back to the coast ( about a 40 min ride) immediately after the show.
This Minnesota girl couldn’t wait to return to the ocean—to breathe in the salty air, listen to the soothing waves ( no headphones needed) , sink my toes into the sand. My trip was a time to decompress, reconnect, and revel in the beauty of simply being.
Choosing the hotel:
Now back to hotel choice. Choosing a great hotel in Los Angeles involves considering several factors to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. I knew I wanted to spend most of my time by water and wanted the ability to have amneities like a short beach walk every morning and a restaurant on site. I landed on Hilton Santa Monica ( also because I am an IHG Rewards member).
The hotel was modern, crisp and airy. I had conidered staying at a newer property but it was a farther walk to the beach each day if I'd gone that route. I was so happy with my choice. While this property is not ocean front, a five minute walk to sand and sea is no big deal. Plus many of the rooms and pool have a view of the sea that is spectacular for sunset cocktails or taking in the scent of ocean air.
Here are some steps to help you make the best choice:
Determine Your Budget:
Establish how much you’re willing to spend per night. LA offers a range of options from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations. There are so many great hotel options now in both luxury and mid market. A lot of the luxury options have experience driven restaurants on site as well as activities. Many more mid luxury range options like the (Hilton I stayed at) have elevated their decor and excellent customer service to feel much more luxury. Additionally their is a new set of hotels that operate similar to an airbnb where there is no check in desk, but have amenities like a cool/vibey bar and lounge on site ( similar to SONDER hotels). I have to note here that no matter where you stay the roof top bar at Sonder Beacon Hotel is a must for a sunset cocktail.
Choose Your Preferred Location:
Hollywood: Ideal for tourists who want to visit major attractions like the Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, and the Hollywood Sign. - However this area is not what it once was in terms of safety, so it's not ideal to go by yourself.
Downtown LA: Great for business travelers and those interested in the arts, culture, and nightlife.
Santa Monica: Perfect for beach lovers and those wanting a more relaxed vibe with great shopping and dining options.
Beverly Hills: For a luxurious stay with high-end shopping and dining.
West Hollywood: Known for its vibrant nightlife, boutique hotels, and proximity to major attractions.
Venice Beach: Offers a quirky, laid-back atmosphere with a famous boardwalk.
Check Reviews and Ratings:
Use platforms like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Google Reviews to read guest reviews and see ratings. Look for consistency in positive feedback. If you’re a reward member make sure you check those reviews too.
Consider Amenities:
Identify what amenities are important to you, such as free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, fitness center, on-site dining, parking, and pet-friendliness.
Look at Transportation Options:
In LA you really need to either rent a car or consider UBER for everything. Both end up being the same price after you consider parking costs everywhere you go. Many places have mandatory valet as well. Check for availability of shuttle services at hotels, parking fees, and ease of access to major highways.
Think About the Purpose of Your Visit:
This is why picking one main attraction and building your trip around that is important.
Safety and Neighborhood:
Research the safety of the neighborhood, especially if you plan to return late at night. Areas like Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood are generally considered safe.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a great hotel in Los Angeles that meets your needs and enhances your visit. Because I love hospitality being that my company is centered around the art of it, when ever I go somewhere I just love going to different hotels and talking to the staff. Having a drink at the bar and absorbing the atmosphere. Some of my favorites are classics like Shutters on the Beach - Think coastal with Adirondack’s and a grand piano in lobby.
Then there’s new developments like the Kellie Wrestler Designed Santa Monica Proper Hotel. Where the bar is the epitome of plush and modern intersecting.
On the off time
On the off time after the main event I spent my time wandering the beach, observing the locals ( that I once was) and hitting a shop and drink or two.
One of the first places I went to was the Bentwood Country Mart
A place where “fancy people” come to be “unfancy”. Truth be told I lived in LA for 10 years and never knew of this place. It’s been her since 1948. Elizabeth Taylor and stars are regulars just dining on great pasta salads and a glass of wine. Very casual atmosphere but a unique casual. Like “wear your ripped jeans but put on a LV bag and nice sandals for the god sake” casual.
I met some friends for coffee and chatted while we sipped sitting on picnic benches. Little upscale shops surround the elevated deli fare as a maze of eye candy. Making spending thousands on a handbag or shoes seem like “meh”. Exactly the kind of carefree free flowing attitude women dream to have. There’s even an open air restaurant you would almost accidentally step into if you weren’t watching you step adjacent to Louis Vuitton s “farmers market “ style store. I loved that they had magazine stands. It was one of my favorite things to do when I lived there. Back then I would buy $50 in magazines on Saturday and page through them over a coffee for hours. It was soul filling to be in a place like this.
Some of my other adventures included The Getty Villa. A peaceful and picturesque drive to the Villa along the PCH. Staring at the ocean and taking it in is great and with the backdrop of the villa is even more royal feeling .
Visiting the Getty Villa is a unique and enriching experience, offering a blend of art, architecture, and scenic beauty. Here’s what you can expect:
Setting and Atmosphere
Location: The Getty Villa is situated in Pacific Palisades, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The location itself is stunning, with beautiful gardens and breathtaking views.
Architecture: The villa is modeled after a first-century Roman country house, the Villa dei Papiri, which provides a sense of stepping back in time to ancient Rome.
Art and Exhibits
Collections: The Getty Villa houses an extensive collection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art. You’ll find sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and frescoes dating from 6,500 BC to 400 AD.
Special Exhibits: In addition to its permanent collection, the Getty Villa frequently hosts special exhibits that delve into specific aspects of ancient art and culture.
Gardens
Design: The gardens are meticulously designed to complement the classical architecture, featuring reflecting pools, fountains, and lush Mediterranean plants.
Strolling: Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through the various gardens, including the Outer Peristyle, Herb Garden, and the East Garden.
Educational Opportunities
Tours: The Getty Villa offers a range of guided tours, including general tours of the collection, architecture, and gardens. There are also themed tours focusing on specific aspects of the ancient world.
Workshops and Lectures: Regular workshops, lectures, and family programs provide deeper insights into the ancient world and the art on display.
Amenities
Café: The villa has a café offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, perfect for a relaxed lunch or snack during your visit.
Museum Store: The store offers a variety of books, replicas, and unique gifts related to the ancient world and the villa’s collections.
Practical Information
Admission: Admission to the Getty Villa is free, but you need to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance.
Parking: There is a fee for parking, and the villa provides ample parking space.
Accessibility: The villa is designed to be accessible to all visitors, with ramps and elevators available for those with mobility issues.
Overall Experience
Immersive and Educational: The Getty Villa offers an immersive experience that is both educational and inspiring. It’s a place where you can learn about ancient civilizations while enjoying the serene and beautifully crafted environment.
Scenic and Relaxing: Beyond the art, the villa’s gardens and views provide a tranquil escape, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out.
The Getty Villa is a captivating journey through ancient history, art, and culture set against the backdrop of the Pacific coast. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend the day, the Getty Villa offers something for everyone.
Classic Moments
*One of the things I never did that I knew I had to take part in in all of its cheesy glory is getting a picture in front of the Hollywood sign. A piece of nostalgia I guess in my ten years of living there that I forgot to do. It’s not possible to get right in front but there are some really great vantage points from the Sunset and Vine cross streets.
Cheesy Beverly Hills Housewives places to visit.
It’s the addiction that women love to hate and many husbands mock. A visit to Hollywood would not be complete with out some RHWBH landmark visits.
I took a praise through the neighborhood to grab a coffee and landed on Melrose where I found a beautiful little shade patio among a coffee shop called VERVE ( which by the way has a location in MN at the Mall of America now!). I sat and took in the peaceful scene and later strolled back down to the boutique.
West Hollywood Real housewives shop (SUTTON). A concept store that I would have loved to peruse but it was not open. This area is changing and developed since I last was there. Many stores have popped up and they have reworked the neighborhood a bit.
While I didn’t get to shop the racks I did window shop and steal an selfie in front of her store sign.
If I had more time I could have visited Vanderpump Dogs, Tom Tom , Pump, and “Something About Her”. But I did get enjoyment out of the adventure bringing me to my old diggs.
On my final day of sea, sun, and serenity, I strolled down the opposite side of the Santa Monica Pier, crossing one of several walkways that make it easy to reach the other side of the Pacific Coast Highway.
One bridge, in particular, caught my eye—a spot where people have placed locks inscribed with messages, a charming detail in front of the steps leading to the beautifully revived Art Deco gem, The Georgian.
When I arrived, I discovered a lovely café at the hotel’s entrance. I’ve heard their afternoon high tea is unforgettable, but my enormous latte—paired with the cozy setting and an ocean view—was just perfect.
Though I once lived in Los Angeles, I know I’ll keep returning to uncover new experiences with each visit. After my goodbyes, I packed my carry-on (multi-use wardrobe essentials only!) and headed to the bellman at the Santa Monica Hilton. The manager greeted me warmly and asked for my feedback. I didn’t hesitate: “It was fabulous!”
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