Fairmont Century Plaza

Colour televisions, integrated radios, built-in vanities; they’re all standard nowadays, but back in 1966 when Century Plaza opened, these were some of the cutting-edge amenities that catapulted the hotel’s popularity. For a long time it was the place to be, with corridors walked by everyone from government officials to entertainment powerhouses; it even secured Sonny & Cher for a residency in the 70s (the lifts are named after the duo) and the events space has held award shows and state dinners. There was a moment when it could have been lost, but after efforts to save and resurrect the building, it was given a luxurious Fairmont makeover. Now, smart and spacious balcony-bordered suites play host to savvy globetrotters who are taking advantage of the location between the beaches, Downtown and Beverly Hills with views to match. 

It's not uncommon to pass families in the hallways on their way to explore, but when it comes to on-site distractions, there’s a sophisticated glamour to them that attracts the grown-ups. Rejuvenation lives in the subterranean spa, equipped with everything to achieve that quintessential LA glow from salt and steam rooms to biohacking treatments. Head up to the lobby bar and cocktails are sipped to tunes of musicians who have played within the hotel’s walls, and the signature seafood towers are as delightful as the Parisian décor of Lumière restaurant. And further up still, reserving a cabana at the rooftop pool makes for stylish sun-soaked afternoons taking in the heat-hazy cityscapes.