Biltmore Angel
Rarely do I stay at a hotel more than once
One of my travel passions is to escape to interesting destinations and reside in "one of a kind" hotels. Los Angeles has been a frequent travel stop over the years for many reasons. I love the city's movie industry history, snagging the great bargains to be had in it's Jewelry and Fashion Districts, relishing it's glorious weather and last but not least, visiting my son, Andrew.
Great hotels can be terribly expensive in Los Angeles
Furthermore, finding one that is affordable and centrally located can be a challenge. But as fate would have it, a business conference attended twenty-five years ago was held at the historic Millennium Biltmore Hotel.
I remember my stay here well. The hotel's "Old World" opulence was warm and inviting from the minute I entered the elegant lobby. My first impression was, "Wow! This was the place of Hollywood glamour and socializing in the past." Likewise, my room was comfortable with a nice view of the Pershing Square across the street. After unpacking my luggage, I drew the curtain and noticed a large sign on an adjacent building that read, Jewelry District. I knew I was in the right place.
Since that first memorable stay at the Biltmore, I have returned here many times for many reasons. As I said, I rarely stay at a hotel more than once unless it has compelling attributes, but this historic hotel is the exception.
6 Reasons Why I Will Always Stay at The Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles
Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles
1. The Price
First and foremost is the hotel's affordable room rate. Prices range from $145-$398 depending on whether you are staying in a standard room or the plushest suite. For a solo traveler, $145 per night in a luxury hotel is a deal.
2. The Location
Second, is the hotel's wonderful location. Downtown Los Angeles is undergoing a revitalization push. Many old but classic apartment buildings are being updated or converted into posh condos. Along side the renovations are stunning new contemporary office and hotel towers. The popular Jewelry and Fashion Districts continue to thrive and be a hotbed of commerce and creativity. Likewise, the Financial District is located Downtown. This area of the city is hot!
Besides the commercial districts, the city's Cultural District with it's various museums, theaters, the Walt Disney Concert Hall are located here. In addition, some of L.A.'s favorite restaurants make their home Downtown. You have so much in this neighborhood to do and see which makes it an excellent location for an enjoyable trip to the "City of Angels."
In addition, because Downtown is highly walkable, you don't need public transportation to get to anywhere you want to go to in the area which is great for the solo traveler. But if you do want to venture out to either Hollywood, Rodeo Drive or Santa Monica, there is a metro station close to the hotel.
Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles
3. The Hotel’s Exciting History
The Millennium Biltmore Hotel offers, "timeless elegance coupled with modern conveniences." Built in 1923 as the largest and most luxurious hotel west of Chicago, the hotel still retains it's former grandeur. Designated by the city of Los Angeles as an historic cultural landmark. The original frescos, murals, tapestries, carved marble fountains, crystal chandeliers. wrought iron entry ways stun you as you peruse the hotel's lobby and first floor. Giovanni Smeraldi, who did artistic work for the Vatican and the White House and whom the hotel's Italian restaurant is named after, painted the magnificent fresco murals that grace the hotel's common areas.
Eight Academy Awards ceremonies during the 1930's and 1940's took place in the hotel's posh ballrooms. Due to it's unique historic interiors, the hotel has been the setting for many movies, TV shows and photo shoots. Likewise, Presidents Kennedy, Johnston and Reagan conducted business and pleasure activities here. The Beatles made the Biltmore their secret hideaway on their first US music tour. The rich, famous and glamorous have chosen this hotel to hang out in the past and still do today. A historic mystic still lingers throughout this "grande dame" of a hotel.
4. The Amenities
The Biltmore's comfortable standard room decors are traditional with a modern twist. Sleep-friendly beds with fluffy pillows and down comforter spreads helps one get a good night's rest. Modern conveniences such as a flat screen TV, in room refrigerator and safe, a desk and an elegant side chair, a small, well-appointed bathroom with a shower head and tub plus free Wifi give the hotel's guest everything he or she needs to make his or her stay pleasant.
Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles
5. The Restaurants
Several attractive restaurants at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel offer a variety of delicious cuisine. Smerald's Restaurant offers scrumptious Italian and American dishes along with, in my opinion, the best breakfast buffet in Downtown L.A. Bugis Street Brasserie, is the hotel's Singaporean and Asian dining option which is great for a light lunch. If you want a luxurious setting for a sandwich or afternoon tea, the famous Rendezvous Court will not disappoint. Last, the chic Gallery Bar is a comfortable setting for your favorite cocktail or glass of wine at the day's end.
6. The Service
The service provided by the hotel's staff is commendable. Friendly and highly accommodating, the check in personnel, the concierge, the bellman and the doormen are well-trained to give you the attention you expect from a luxury hotel.
If you are looking to stay in a historic hotel that exudes glamour and elegance at an affordable price when in Los Angeles, book your reservation at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel. Like me, I bet you will be a returning guest!
Enjoy this short video showcasing the Millennium Biltmore Hotel and as always, feel free to ask questions or make comments below. I value all of my readers' feedback.
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Author: Astrid Clements
Astrid Solo Travel Advisor CEO and founder, Astrid, has spent over 40 years traveling around the world. She is passionate about embracing the world’s diverse cultures and sharing with others the global need and personal benefit of cultural literacy. Her focus is on affordable luxury travel that is both substantive and fun! To read more about her and each one of our Solo Travel Advisors, head over to the About page!
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