When one conjures images of Los Angeles, the mind often gravitates towards iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, the Walk of Fame, and the glamor of Rodeo Drive.
However, within the vast expanse of this sprawling city lies a myriad of neighborhoods, each possessing its distinct charm and allure. While the renowned attractions hold their appeal, there’s a burgeoning neighborhood silently making waves — Culver City.
An Emerging Entertainment Epicenter
Culver City is at the center of a paradigm shift—the neighborhood has been prominent over the years for its housing of big-name studios like Sony Pictures. Culver City is now attracting the likes of digital media giants Apple TV+, Amazon Studios, HBO Max, and others, making it an ultra-modern entertainment hub.
These recent industries and young professionals have revitalized the community. Now, one can also see the emergence of plenty of new restaurants and boutiques that have revitalized Culver City adding to the appeal of Los Angeles!
A Vibrant Boutique Hotel
At the forefront of Culver City’s renaissance is The Shay, a Destination by Hyatt hotel, inaugurated in October 2021. This boutique establishment comprises a vibrant eatery, a co-working space in the lobby and an exclusive rooftop swimming pool—the only one in the city. If you want a midday swim at your hybrid office space, The Shay is the place to be.
The Shay represents Culver City’s artistic character, and it also doubles up as a social center that hosts pop-up shows by local sellers and displays native artwork on its walls. It has 148 rooms to boot, so there’s a decent chance you could get a room if your timing is right!
Food, Glorious Food
Start your day at Equator Coffees, the inaugural SoCal outpost of the LGBTQ+-founded sustainable roasting company from Northern California. For a lunch experience, return to the rooftop of The Shay and indulge in Canopy Club. Inspired by the atmospheres of Palm Springs and Miami, this poolside restaurant offers a lively setting against the backdrop of pink walls, pool umbrellas, and abundant greenery. Very nice indeed.
For dinner, proper foodies should reserve a seat at Etta, a full-service restaurant adjacent to The Shay’s lobby. Helmed by award-winning chef Dan Perretta, Etta’s menu celebrates Italian classics, presenting a curated selection of fresh salads, wood-fired pizzas, and house-made pasta dishes.
Journey Through Queenstown: A Tapestry of Seasons, Adventure, and Luxury
In the heart of New Zealand, Queenstown thrives. Celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and a spectrum of thrilling adventures. Queenstown offers a unique blend of safety, ease of navigation, and diverse accommodation options catering to various budgets. .A pivotal point on any New Zealand travel itinerary, here’s your guide to planning a trip from food to breathtaking hot spots!
Queenstown’s Gastronomic Delights
For relishing traditional New Zealand cuisine, Botswana Butchery is the optimum place with its seafood and meat dishes, including clam chowder, oysters, lamb, and crispy duck. Or head to Rata, by Michelin-star chef Josh Emett, which offers a delicious array of locally sourced specialties.
For something casual, opt for Fergburger, a 20-year-old establishment serving some of the most delicious burgers with fresh, local ingredients. Lastly, for innovative experiments and experiences, Madam Woo is a lively choice with delicious Malaysian-meets-Asian-fusion cuisine and aromatic drinks.
Best Times to Visit
Hoss Vetry, vice president of operations for APAC at Rosewood claims that Queenstown is a year-round destination. Vetry explains that mostly international travelers start pouring in during November to March. If you’re a skier, July through September offer the best conditions. Why not take a trip to Mount Hutt?
On the other hand, April and May offer calm weather, fewer crowds, and the famous fall Arrowtown leaves. September to October is the time of spring (yes, spring) which offers breathtaking views and one can witness mesmerizing snow-top mountains as well.
How to Get There
The most efficient way is by flying into Queenstown Airport, with daily flights from various domestic airports. The majority of tourists choose to travel by air from Auckland, where it takes about one and a half hours.
After reaching the airport you have taxis and car rental companies or if you are staying at one of the hotels listed, there are transfer options. However, if you are on a larger South Island road trip, it is easy to access by car and offers some breathtaking views either from Dunedin or elsewhere.
Areas to Visit
Arrowtown is a historic gold mining town that is something out of a storybook, with quaint boutiques, eateries, and art galleries. It’s only a 20-minute drive from central Queenstown, making for a lovely day trip.
If you are someone who is looking to snap Insta-worthy vacation places, Glenorchy is the place for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, Gibbston is where you can head with your bike and cycle through the Gibbston Valley. It’s a great cardio workout, too.