2015 Hostel Reviews

Photo courtesy joblo.com

In my opinion, hostels are the way to go (don't believe what you see in those movies:) I stayed at seven different locations in 2015 with repeat visits at Freehand Chicago. I prefer hostels for the price, camaraderie, and because they are typically located in an area that is convenient to transportation and activities.

Orange Drive Hostel in Hollywood, CA
This hostel was originally a home from the 1920's and is oozing with charm and character. It's located in an ideal location right off Hollywood Blvd in Hollywood, CA. I love their scrumptious free waffles in the morning, friendly staff, and location. I have stayed in a spacious dorm room at this hostel many times, and will continue to do so when I travel to LA. 
http://orangedrivehostel.com/


Apple Hostels in Philadelphia, PA
I knew what I was getting into by securing a dorm room with 27 other females; however, it was worse than I expected. There are two separate rooms with no door, and it's bunk on top of bunk. A male staff person entered the room without announcing himself, and fortunately, I had just finished changing. Not to mention, it was hot, stuffy, pricey, and oh so noisy. I would not stay here again. 
http://applehostels.com/

DC Lofty in Washington, DC
This is another charming property with chandeliers and exposed brick. I stayed in a 4-person dorm with ensuite bath. The hostel was clean with a comfy bed, friendly staff, and a great location. I felt secure walking around, even from the subway late at night. Be sure to check out nearby 14th Street for fantastic bars and restaurants. I would definitely stay here again.
http://www.capitalhostels.net/

Hostel Detroit in Detroit, MI
I wrote an individual post for this hostel (bit.ly/1lAZebX). I had a great visit and would stay here again.

Freehand Chicago in Chicago, IL
Another property that I published an individual post for (bit.ly/1MWdC3T). I'm completely smitten with this hostel, and intend to have many more visits in the future.

Getaway Hostel in Chicago, IL
I always stay at Freehand Chicago when I visit the Windy City; however, I chose this location because it was within walking distance of my Halloween activities. The hostel is located on a lovely, tree-lined street and is aesthetically pleasing; however, I wouldn't stay here again. I base this on the location of the bathrooms being nowhere near the dorm room (you had to walk through two different areas), and the bunk beds are terribly unstable (my bed shifted with the slightest movement from my bunkmate).
http://www.getawayhostel.com/

The Cleveland Hostel in Cleveland, OH
I couldn't have chosen a better place to stay than the Cleveland Hostel. What a gem in a remarkable neighborhood. Immerse yourself in Ohio City for the architecture (especially the homes), phenomenal bars/restaurants, Great Lakes Brewing, and the West Side Market. The hostel is inviting, clean, tastefully decorated, and extremely accommodating. I will return for a summer visit to relish the rooftop deck. View photos here http://bit.ly/1MLnsFP

GETTING AROUND LA WITHOUT A CAR

Did you know it's a myth that you can't get around Los Angeles without a car? I lived there for years and return annually for visits, and have never owned or rented a car.

How do I do it you ask? I mainly walk, and when the distance is too great, I take LA Metro. I don't understand why more people aren't on foot, because the weather is so appealing. It's also the best way to explore all this fascinating, beautiful city has to offer. I can never take in enough palm trees.

I won't lie; it's not a picnic riding the bus due to the congestion and number of stops; however, it's cheap ($1.75) and will get you where you need to go. The subway system is great, especially traveling to the downtown area.

If you plan to take multiple rides, I suggest buying a day pass for $7. You can also purchase a tap card for $1, which is re-loadable and makes for a fun souvenir.  http://www.metro.net/

Walking is my favorite way to spy the abundance of street art scattered around the city. You may even learn where to buy important items like earthquake supplies while you are wandering. 

The quickest and most economical way of getting to and from the airport is via the Flyaway Bus. It only sets me back $8 to ride from LAX to Union Station. http://www.lawa.org/FlyAway

I challenge you to get out there and pound some pavement to discover the real LA. How else would I have spied these cool street art pieces if I had not been on the sidewalk looking up (even though they had their eye on me)?

EXPERIENCE THE LAST BOOKSTORE

The Last Bookstore is quirky, artsy, and astonishing. Upon entering, you will quickly fail to remember that you are in a bookstore.

Your eyes will bulge, especially once you reach the mezzanine level. This floor includes the Labyrinth and the Spring Arts Collective gallery shops. 
 

You can find more than 100,000 books for $1 in the back room of the Labyrinth, but I bet the first time you arrive, you will be too busy taking snaps.
 

The Last Bookstore will also keep you entertained, hosting events like Open Mic Night, Downtown Art Walk, and author signings. 

This is the type of place where you enter as an adult, and leave feeling like a kid in a fairytale. http://lastbookstorela.com/ 

ART AND BREWS AT ANGEL CITY

On my continuing quest to visit as many breweries as possible, I recently checked out Angel City Brewery and this one is a keeper!

You might grow wings while you are here.

The unique structure of the building and atmosphere is like nothing I have experienced before. The tap room, better known as the Public House, is extremely spacious with displays of art by local artists. 

In addition, you will find an array of board games, a retail store, and at least one food truck in the parking lot to keep you satiated. 

 
Angel City offers numerous events including Run + Yoga + Beer every Sunday morning, and they are so laid-back it's little people and dog friendly. Unfortunately, I didn't have time to partake in the free brewery tour, which I look forward to next time.

I believe a flight is the best introduction to a new tap house. I let my knowledgeable, friendly bartender choose my selections and he did not disappoint. A winning sampler like this will only set you back $9.

On my second social call, I ordered two pints - a White Nite and an Orange Cacao Stout. You are looking at two really interesting and palatable beers.

My "White Nite" in shining armor

Orange Cacao Stout - my absolute favorite

I'm head over heels in love with this place! Do yourself a favor by exploring and throwing back a few cold ones at Angel City Brewery. http://angelcitybrewery.com/about/

Dine for $10 at these Vegetarian Eateries

I bet most people would agree when I say one of the reasons we travel is to experience the food. Being vegetarian, LA has always been my favorite city to explore new eateries. The City of Angels is consistently dependable for offering a plethora of delectable options.

You might be thinking it's not cheap to dine out on healthy, vegetarian food in LA, but believe me, it can be. I discovered some excellent choices during my recent adventure that won't break the bank.

It's a pleasure to share these five restaurants (including one food truck) where I spent about $10 or less without losing flavor, portion size, or flawless service.

1) Veggie Grill
2) Let's Thai
3) Vegan House
4) Kaya Street Kitchen
5) Vegan Glory 

Bombay Bowl at Veggie Grill

 

Garlic and Spicy Basil Street Tacos with Tofu from Let's Thai

Yaki Soba at Vegan House

Basil brown rice/tofu/garlic kale/sister's sambal sauce bowl at Kaya

Stir Fried Vegetable Dinner Combo at Vegan Glory

I'm really hungry now, aren't you?

EVERYTHING YOU NEED AT MELROSE TRADING POST

 
In my book, it's a huge bonus to find an outdoor flea market to explore while traveling. During my recent trip to LA, I found the best one thus far. Melrose Trading Post consumes the parking lot of Fairfax High School in West Hollywood. You can carve out the entire day at this shopping extravaganza, and not come close to unearthing what the numerous vendors have to offer. 

If you can't find what you're looking for here, it simply doesn't exist. I spent hours browsing furniture, collectibles, clothing, jewelry, books, one of a kind wares, and so much more. If you need to get caffeinated or nourished while shopping, they gotcha covered. The market provides a food court (indoor malls are so yesterday), where I wolfed down a Nutella pastry and latte while being serenaded by the gifted Katie Ferrera. 
  

I chatted with one of the founders, Pierson Blaetz, who wanted me to share an important aspect of the market is that it raises a lot of money for public school arts education. The modest $3.00 entrance fee helps fund programs for students who attend Fairfax High School, so it's a win-win for all.

This remarkable bazaar takes place every Sunday from 9am-5pm, rain or shine, at the corner of Melrose Avenue and Fairfax Avenue. ATM machines are available if you discover your wallet is empty. Mark your calendars, because you are now well-informed as to why you should be here every Sunday. http://melrosetradingpost.org/

Adorable father/daughter dance

PEACOCKS & MORE AT HOLLYWOOD FOREVER

 

I escaped winter and spent almost two glorious weeks in Los Angeles. One of my activities involved a day at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, which is a good resting place, even for the living. The grounds are utterly pristine, and you can take pleasure in being surrounded by palm trees. 

I'm not ashamed to admit that one of the reasons I love spending time here is to hang out with peacocks, the beloved gatekeepers. These beautiful creatures strut their stuff like they own the place; however, will stop to pose for impromptu photo shoots.

 

A stunning area to cop a squat is near Johnny Ramone's grave, where you can watch nature in full swing. A picturesque scene awaits you including a lake, fountain, ducks, and fish. Johnny's grave was getting all spruced up with pretty new flowers when I arrived.

 

Free on-site parking and restrooms are available. If you prefer an official walking tour, you can sign up for one with film historian Karie Bible http://cemeterytour.com/.

Check out Hollywood Forever's website to learn about the cultural events they offer throughout the year. My future goal is to attend a concert or summer movie night. http://www.hollywoodforever.com/