Midway between downtown Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, L.A.'s newest Four Seasons, set in an office park next to the 101 freeway, overflows with marble and stone—from the massive boulders dredged from Thailand's River Kwai that dot the landscaped grounds to the polished onyx of the sushi bar. Views from the lobby lounge and restaurants overlook the cascading, rocky waterfall—designed to block out freeway views and noise. Rooms are expensively finished (millwork, flat-screen TVs, and richly upholstered furniture) and double-paned window quiet. Connected to the hotel is the California Health & Longevity Institute that provides health and lifestyle services from diet and exercise revamps to diagnostic testing. Pros: gorgeous spa and many extras like private pool and spa dining, on-site healthful cooking lessons, expansive gym with yoga classes. Cons: secluded, corporate park location, blazing hot summers, room windows sealed shut.
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