My friend and i have just decided on a trip to LA later this summer (fun to plan in the dead of winter!). I love LA and need to visit friends and family.

Any thoughts on a nice, central, mid-priced hotel w/ pool? Or even a splurge?

Thanks!

Er, central to what? Where do these friends and family live in the greater LA area? I'd start by answering that question. If they all live in Orange County, sending you to stay in, say, Santa Monica would be a bit silly.

I think she meant central to the sights tourists typically see in the LA area.

Yes, LA, not Orange County. Sorry, could have been more clear.

Friends are above Hollywood, Studio City, and Sherman Oaks. But I'd rather not stay in the Valley. Maybe Hollywood or West Hollywood? A quiet place, but with easy access to the usual sites?

Thanks, again-

Well, maybe the Best Western Sunset Plaza would be fun. It's on Sunset in West Hollywood, and all sorts of fun stuff can be found around it. The Farmer's Daughter Motel, on Fairfax, is a seriously good deal in lodging in that part of WH, across from Television City. The Standard is a little passé nowadays, but it could be a lot of fun. The advantage to staying near Sunset would be that you could drive down Sunset to Laurel Canyon (or the other way to Cahuenga) to get to the Valley, without getting on the freeways at all.

The Summerfield Suites in West Hollywood in a quiet little residential corner between Santa Monica Blvd, Sunset, and La Cienega. You can walk up to the strip, or drive from their gated underbuilding garage. They have a wonderful roof-top pool, jacuzzi, and relaxing spot with great views (and my experience is that you usually have it to yourself as it is a lot of business travelers). They've just refurbished it, all new inside, or they'll be done very soon. All rooms are mini suites with separate living area.
You can book on wyndham's site.

The Roosevelt is an oldie but goodie just across from Graman's Chinese Restaurant and all the sidewalk Hollywod stars. It has a nice big pool. The original Frederick's of Hollywood is just down the street -- ooh-la-la.

I'd recommend The Standard at 8300 Sunset Blvd. in West Hollywood, rooms are reasonable and it is considered a young, hip hangout.

i don't know if we're young and hip enough for the standard! well, definitely hip, but not so young anymore . . .

what about le montrose? i've read good things about it elsewhere. and a kitchenette could be good.

Melissa,

My husband and I are staying at the Hollywood Renaissance next week--I'll let you know what I think when we get back.