Calgarypuck Forums - The Unofficial Calgary Flames Fan Community - View Single Post - Going to LA

tvp2003 · 12-16-2008, 07:57 PM

I've been to LA a few times -- it all depends on how much $ you want to spend.

I've stayed near the airport -- my dad gets the employee rate for Starwood hotels so I can stay at the Westin LAX for $49 a night (free airport shuttle is a bonus, plus there is a Thrifty car rental next door). As stated above, Santa Monica is a great place to stay (and visit), but expect to pay more as well.

Renting a car is pretty cheap in LA; although it might be a little extra $ for you because you're under 25, it's likely the most convenient option. Beware of parking charges at the hotel though -- that can add another $15-20 bucks, depending on where you're staying. You'll also be on the hook for parking at your destination. Of course, LA's traffic is notorious, so the time savings depends on what time of day you're travelling. Taxi may not be much cheaper either, but I don't have any first-hand experience to speak of.

The first time we went to LA, we ended up taking the Subway to Hollywood. We passed Staples Center on the way -- the subway stops a block or two away. I didn't think it was too bad, although it can take a lot of time, so I don't know if I would recommend this. If you're looking to save $ by taking transit, there is a relatively good bus system that runs through Santa Monica from the airport and into downtown (Big Blue Bus).

12-16-2008, 07:57 PM	#13
tvp2003 Franchise Player Join Date: Mar 2006 Exp:	I've been to LA a few times -- it all depends on how much $ you want to spend. I've stayed near the airport -- my dad gets the employee rate for Starwood hotels so I can stay at the Westin LAX for $49 a night (free airport shuttle is a bonus, plus there is a Thrifty car rental next door). As stated above, Santa Monica is a great place to stay (and visit), but expect to pay more as well. Renting a car is pretty cheap in LA; although it might be a little extra $ for you because you're under 25, it's likely the most convenient option. Beware of parking charges at the hotel though -- that can add another $15-20 bucks, depending on where you're staying. You'll also be on the hook for parking at your destination. Of course, LA's traffic is notorious, so the time savings depends on what time of day you're travelling. Taxi may not be much cheaper either, but I don't have any first-hand experience to speak of. The first time we went to LA, we ended up taking the Subway to Hollywood. We passed Staples Center on the way -- the subway stops a block or two away. I didn't think it was too bad, although it can take a lot of time, so I don't know if I would recommend this. If you're looking to save $ by taking transit, there is a relatively good bus system that runs through Santa Monica from the airport and into downtown (Big Blue Bus). Last edited by tvp2003; 12-16-2008 at 07:59 PM.