“Hollywood is loneliness beside the swimming pool.”

It's the city of dreams, they say, and Los Angeles is everything you'd imagine it to be. Here in West Hollywood is where I allowed myself to get lost in the haze - if only for a moment.

Stay …
L.A at it’s finest - located on the iconic Sunset Boulevard in the heart of West Hollywood, 1 Hotels provides you with the eternal sunshine of Southern California. A truly modern stay, with beautifully styled minimal (insta-worthy) interiors and generously spacious rooms. Nature is the theme here, with reclaimed wood, earthy tones, native greenery, marble bathrooms and organic cotton linens, while floor to ceiling windows boast incredible views from Downtown L.A. to Santa Monica. My favourite part? The outdoor pool and deck. Think an abundance of white towelled deck chairs, L.A. skyline views and drinks and snacks on call. You know where to find me with a gin in hand.

Taste …
You’re lucky if staying at 1 Hotels as you won’t have to travel far for a meal. Enjoy fresh, local and sustainably sourced farm-to-table meals at 1 Kitchen West Hollywood by renowned Chef Chris Cary. Or venture upstairs to Harriet’s Rooftop for some picturesque sunsets and delicious cocktails.

If it’s the best sushi and sashimi in town you’re after, then Matsuhisa is the one. For an extra fun and lavish brunch, the iconic Chateau Marmont is my pick on a Sunday. Now for old school Hollywood glamour, a drink at the Tower Bar is a must (dark, moody and a few celebrity sittings). For something a little more modern, Bar Stella is the go-to. A secretive gem with a great vibe with and an even better cocktail list.

Do ...
When in L.A you should do all the cliché things, right? A scenic hike to Griffith Park, celebrity name sighting on the Walk of Fame, window shopping on Melrose Place, Rodeo Drive for some vintage finds, a Venice Beach tour, and don’t forget to pop into Amoeba Music, the world’s largest independent record store. I guarantee you won’t leave empty handed.

Take …
Only the essentials. Film camera for those L.A Sunsets, party shirts for pool days and rooftop nights, sunscreen and cloud paint from Glossier (my new favourites) for your face, a mini dress for spur of the moment cocktail parties, and don’t forget to take your sunglasses everywhere.