mf62

Hello

I've read a few posts already to get some ideas - but hoping I'll get a bit more advice. We are flying in from Australia on 30 January and will want a hotel to rest for a two or three days before heading off on a road trip through California and Arizona. We would like to hire the car before we set off on the trip, and use public transport in LA, including getting from the airport.

We would like to visit the Getty Centre, and my husband would like to go to the Peterson Car Museum. I got a recommenation from another post for the Angeleno, but the hotel wasn't available for our dates. I've heard Santa Monica is nice, but expensive. I'm looking for something in the $150 per night range.

Your advice would be appreciated.

happytrailstoyou

It won't be easy to find a room for $150. I would search for rooms in Hollywood, West Hollywood, and downtown keeping in mind where public transport is best:
http://www.metro.net/

After a long flight, you might want to take a shuttle to your hotel:
http://www.primetimeshuttle.com/loca...FeUaQgodnHIMxQ

HTTY

clarkgriswold

Hilgard House near UCLA usually has "special rates" in that neighborhood but they won't post their specials until December. Easy hop on bus to Getty and Petersen. From the airport, the $5 Westwood Flyaway Coach takes you from the baggage terminal to about 3 blocks from the hotel. There is an AVIS office around the corner for car rental, but for Australians, Hertz, Alamo or NationalCar usually offer the best rates because they include both types of insurance that you need. Hertz probably has an office a few miles from the hotel and will pick you up at the hotel.

Consider renting your car from the airport since Hilgard House parking is free. (However not a great parking lot for vans/large vehicles.) Sometimes 21 day car rental price is same as 18 or 19 day etc.

Royal Palace WEstwood is another hotel choice near UCLA, across from Hilgard house. Angeleno is a nice hotel but not on the Flyaway Airport transfer route and not close to any dining or shops within walking distance. I would only stay at Angeleno with a car, and there is a parking charge.

mlgb

Yes, I think you may be a bit early for discount shopping.

Another option near West LA is the Holiday Inn Express West Los Angeles. I THINK they do offer free parking, but that is something you sill need to ask about in advance. Nothing special in the neighborhood other than convenience.

smcgown

With help from this forum & friends we have decided to stay at the Brentwood Inn. Location is great because Gettys and Peterson are on our list too. I understand rooms are small but nice and have requested a room away from the street. Front desk guy was very helpful & nice! There is another special car museum in Oxnard, McMillan I think. Only open Saturdays & reservations required. Email me directly if you are interested & Ill get the info for you. [email protected] Have a good trip!!!

mf62

Thanks for all your thoughtful advice and transport suggestions. We have decided to stay in Santa Monica, as the idea of being near the beach is very appealing.