Chateau Marmont

Each room is unique. Nothing matches. Everything feels like it has a story to tell. Legendary in terms of old Hollywood chic, and dripping A-Listers coming to hang out, the Chateau Marmont is a quirky elite hotel for those who want a place that feels more like (a very nice) home than a luxe hotel. The restaurant stresses local produce, strong preparation and elegant service. It is French-leaning classic cuisine, but with a strong overlay of California fruit/vegetable/fish. The room service menu mirrors the restaurant, and the slightly more laidback pool service is delicious. And that pool is an incredible place to spend time. Smallish, the chaise. lounges and small sofas suggest languishing while waiting for the big deal to come through. Indulgence is encouraged; the frose alone is worth the afternoon lost, For those who can afford the Cabanas, they are the best of the California Joan Didion celebrated in THE WHITE ALBUM. White washed, shabby chic, full of light, they sprawl and ramble -- and foment creativity without being obvious. Yes, the bar scene is terrific. The living room off the check-in area is equal parts Morocco, your rich grandparents' home and Keith Richards' '70s aesthetics. With a staff who aims to help, it's worth the splurge.

We had a large one bedroom apartment in the tower and a decent view of fireworks in the distance from the small terrace/balcony. Although large, the apartment was quite shabby - Just shabby - not “shabby chic” as I had anticipated. The experience however was low key relaxing and beautiful for our group of friends. The proces are high already, especially for the poor condition, however, if they updated them I’m sure the property would be completely out of reach for our level travelers!

Staying at the Chateau is a pure adventure. The hotel is perfect in all aspects. It has an timeless atmosphere, very historical yet very much in the now. The staff is excellent and service is top notch. I know some visitors react negatively about the rooms having sort of an vintage interior, but thats one of the reasons why the hotel is so great.