STAY: HOTEL MILO

A charming little hotel located near the iconic Stearns Wharf and West Beach area, Hotel Milo is a perfect spot if you're looking for something smaller and quieter than the larger luxury resorts like the Four Seasons or the Ritz. With the pier directly across from this boutique hotel and a short walk to the State Street shopping district, the location is pretty great. The rooms aren't the nicest/ most spacious here and can vary a bit depending on the room type, but given you're in Santa Barbara, you shouldn't anticipate to spend too much time indoors anyways.  There's a rack of cute bikes available to the guests to use and a decent pool area in the back to add to your activities. There's something that feels a bit Melrose Place here, but if you were a fan like me, that's just added bonus.

stay: RITZ BACARA

With over 350 rooms, this oceanfront resort is pretty massive with over 78 acres that offer sprawling Pacific Ocean and mountain views. Taking cues from Mediterranean villages with a mix of Santa Barbara's iconic Spanish Colonial influences, this luxury resort is quite the looker with plenty to do without ever leaving the resort. 3 pools, 2 private beaches, 6 restaurants, and a partridge in a pear tree, it might be difficult to plan out days outside of the resort. The resort is also known to frequent celebs, including the Kardashians who made a trip to the Bacara for a sister weekend getaway, if that floats your boat one way or the other. 

stay: kimpton goodland

Located in Goleta, about 9 miles west of Santa Barbara, Goodland embodies everything laid-back and surf about CA. With only 2 floors, it looks like an old-school motel turned bohemian boutique hotel, but there's nothing 'motel' about this place. The hotel is super cute and upon arriving, you're instantly greeted by the warmth and chic interior decor. The lobby is up to Instagram-worthy standards: decked out with cool graphics and large modern photos on pastel walls, to whimsical tiling on the floors. Everything is open and airy including the outdoor restaurant and pool area. A few outdoor fire pits are strategically placed near the pool, making it a perfect spot for a nightcap of smores and wine. The rooms are no frills, but super cute with decor that looks like something out of a Pinterest board. Overall a great place to stay in Santa Barbara if you're looking for something more moderately priced but doesn't compromise on style or quality.

STAY: THE INN @ LAGUNA BEACH

Among the Ritz’s and Montage’s of Laguna, there's The Inn. Located closer to Newport, this super cute boutique hotel has everything you need for a beach getaway. And since it is an inn, there are only 4 floors, 70 rooms, a small pool area, but the service and rooms are up to any 5-star hotel standard. There's also a great rooftop lounge to get a drink while soaking up the Pacific Ocean views. This may not be your 5-star, full on over-the-top amenity hotel but there's something really charming about this place that makes you love staying here and has a great local vibe.

stay: the resort at pelican hill

Somewhere between Laguna and Newport, this Tuscan-style resort is perched atop a terraced hillside and has stunning, panoramic views of the ocean. Everything from the views to the service is amazing, and it's no wonder, as this resort has won numerous top resort awards over the years from Forbes and Conde Nast Traveller. Taking cues from the grand villas of the Italian countryside, it's easy to sink into the Roman-style grandeur of Pelican, what with its signature Coliseum Pool that could easily be the largest circular pool that you've ever seen. There may be plenty to do outside the resort, but it might be hard to leave with all that the hotel has to offer.

EAT: BANZAI BOWLS

When strolling around the streets of Laguna, you can't help but notice people walking around with these huge acai bowls loaded with fruits and different  toppings. With multiple locations in Cali, and also one in Hawaii (<3), come here for awesome acai bowl combos as well as fresh smoothies made to your liking. The ambience is very local surfer, and not the cutest of decor, but the acai bowls are legit. Love me a good acai bowl anytime of day.

EAT: ACTIVE CULTURE

A great little spot to sit outside and grab some fro-yo among other things. You'll find smoothies, acai bowls, and other small (mostly organic) bites on the menu.  Set in a Spanish style setting, the tables outside are a great spot to sit, soak up the Laguna rays, and people watch. It may be the white and blue decor, but there’s something reminiscent of Greece when walking up to this small eatery.

EAT: LAGUNA COFFEE CO.

A cute little coffee cafe off the main S Coast Hwy that runs through Laguna, this place is the perfect spot to sun bathe while grabbing a bite. With a few tables outside and a little outdoor garden, grab a table, order some food, and take in the Laguna sun.  Their sandwiches are amazing, with my fav being the pastrami sandwich. Don't mind the huge coffee grinder in the middle of the cafe which is where they grind all of their coffee beans. The service may be a little slow when it gets busy but remember, you’re on Laguna time.

EAT: URTH CAFFE

I know, I know. It's Urth Caffe and so basic but I LOVE that there's an Urth here because it's like a double whammy for me: I love Laguna and I LOVE Urth Caffe, so... #winning. And the fact that the outside seating area is big and spacious compared to the ones in LA, makes it even better. It's also the prettiest one TBH.  If you aren't familiar with Urth, my favs here are the green tea iced boba, the Urth salad, and oh....everything on the menu.

EAT: ADOLFO'S MEXICAN

Love this randomly eclectic hole-in-the- wall Mexican spot. With a full on patio decorated with random tchotchkes like a ceramic cat and gnomes, don't be skeptical because you're in for some real legit Mexican food. Order at the counter and find yourself a seat either inside or outside, and wait for it to be brought to you or your number called out. While you're waiting, help yourself to the makeshift salsa and jalenpeno bar where you can load up on as much as you like. The best part? The prices are no frills, just like the spot. 

eat: CHANTILLY ICE CREAM

Feels like an old school ice cream parlor, but def not the prices. It's all sweet and cute until you realize it's cash only and a single scoop of ice cream will cost you close to $10. It's still worth a visit and they do have a ton of flavors to choose from with not many other options nearby for ice cream. It's in the main area of Laguna so you'll most likely pass by it whether you choose to go in or not, is up to you.

EXPLORE: DIVERS COVE

Behind The Inn at Laguna Beach, there's a beach path that takes you to several great points along the bluffs of the Pacific Ocean including Divers Cove. The views along the path are stunning and if you start at The Inn, you'll come across several gorg spots for watching surfers catch waves as well scuba divers. There's also Heisler Park along the path which is a nice park that sits atop the bluffs that has additional walking paths as well as some gardens and picnic tables. Point being, there's alot of great distractions on your way over to Divers Cove.

EXPLORE: THOUSAND STEPS BEACH

This beach is cool because of how you get there, hence the name. Don't let the name scare you though, it may be called Thousand Steps Beach, but it's actually 233 steps. That's not to say that it doesn't feel like 1000 steps on your way back up. The trek down the narrow, tree covered path of steps is worth it however, as it opens up to a sprawling beach with different nooks and crannies to explore, including a cave that can be accessed only during low tide. Not enough to spend the whole day here as there are prettier beaches to sunbathe at, with better views, but TS Beach is def worth a visit.

EXPLORE: BROOKS STREET BEACH

There's plenty of spots along Laguna's main S Coast Hwy to stop and smell the fresh ocean mist, but this is one of my favs. It's def a go-to spot for catching Laguna's beautiful sunsets.  There's a small spot for parking but if you can, try and park somewhere less crowded and walk here. You'll find a section of large steps to sit and relax while you wait for sun down. It can get crowded so come early, but there's enough view for everyone.

STAY: MEADOWOOD

There's a very Hamptons-eque vibe to this property with its sprawling greens, that includes a very chic cricket and pool area. Rather than rooms, accommodations come in the form of luxurious cottages that are situated throughout the property and add a nice touch of privacy and seclusion.  Golf carts are available to take you around the resort which includes a beautiful spa sanctuary as well as The Restaurant which is the resort's three Michelin star dining experience. The food was amazing and the views of Napa's wine country while you sunbathe by the pool are something else. Everything about this place oozed subtle, understated luxury at it's best. 

STAY: Auberge du Soleil

With its French Mediterranean villa-like compound, it's hard not to fall in love with Auberge. Tucked away atop Napa's mountains, this Napa staple has been acclaimed as one of the top resorts in the world for its attention to detail, impeccable service, and stunning views. The resort is huge and includes a sculpture trail and tennis courts, among other things. The pool area is the place to be, with gorgeous views overlooking Napa and the oh so chic pool chairs and umbrellas that make you feel like you're somewhere in Italy at your rich Italian uncle's compound. Oh, and the wine here is good too.

explore: beaulieu gardens

A private estate that is only available for special events, Beaulieu Gardens transports you to what feels like a French chateau in the middle of Napa. With an entrance that's a half-mile drive beneath a canopy of sycamore trees, everything about Beaulieu Gardens seems grand. Upon arriving, there's beautiful garden-scapes that ultimately take you to their signature lily-pond fountain in the middle of the property.  On a perfect sunny day, the place just feels magical and of another time. The estate is still privately owned by the family, but try and make an appointment to come and see Beaulieu even if you have to fake an engagement.

EAT: FREMONT DINER

Make sure to stop by this Southern comfort diner on your way up to Napa/Sonoma from San Fran.  Over the years, it's become some what of a go-to-spot for all the travelers coming through on the way to Wine Country.  Serving up fried chicken, waffles, BBQ and all the Southern favs, it's everything you could want in a 'rest-stop' and more. And then there's the occasional twist on some diner classics like the Horchata milkshake.  In the back there's an outdoor seating area sprinkled with their signature turquoise colored picnic tables, where they serve up BBQ 'until we run out' as noted on their menu.

eAT: ARCHETYPE

Architectural Digest named Archetype one of the ten ‘most Beautifully Designed restaurants’, and for good reason. If Ina Garten had her own restaurant, it would be Archetype. One of my fav all-time movies is Something's Gotta Give, and this restaurant feels right out of one of Nancy Meyers' films with its sun-filled space, large windows, spacious seating, and open kitchen. Archetype is not only gorgeous but the food is worth the type as well. Go for the brunch, if you can stand the wait: I've had some of the fluffiest, delicious pancakes here but everything is really, really good. The service might be a little on the slower side, as it can get really busy but the servers are always really nice which makes it bearable. After brunching, take a nice stroll with the town of St. Helena where the restaurant is located. 

stay: montage beverly hills

Just a few blocks from Rodeo Drive, the Montage BH is exactly what you would expect from a 5-star retreat in the heart of Beverly Hills. Sitting pretty, like a grand Mediterranean villa, the Montage is decadent and inviting at the same time. With a gorgeous garden courtyard that can be enjoyed outside or as part of the hotel's restaurant Georgie, the decor and ambiance is tres chic. If you're more of a rooftop person, there's rooftop dining by the pool where you can work on your tan while noshing on some delicious bites. The Garden Bar is a great spot to grab cocktails and also run into a few celebrities, but if you're more low-key, check out £10, their 'not so secret' whiskey bar that's located on the 2nd floor, and specializes in the Macallan Single Malt. Classy.

stay: the line hotel

I don't know why but I really love this hotel. Maybe it's because it's in K-town, maybe it's the amazing views of the Hollywood Hills from each room, or maybe it's the perfectly decorated interiors that I love so much...either way this is a great hotel. If you haven't stayed here before, you should, even if for the bedding alone. The beds are so fluffy and comfortable, it's hard to get up in the mornings. Located on the rooftop next to the (small) pool area is hotel’s restaurant, The Commissary, where you can grab some delicious bites outside or indoors. The hotel notes the Commissary as 'one of the most Instagrammed restaurants in LA'. 

stay: the jeremy hotel

One of my favorite areas in LA is West Hollywood, so you can imagine how happy I was to find this new gem of a hotel on the Sunset Strip. Opened in August 2017, this modernly cool hotel sits atop the WeHo hills on La Cienega and Sunset Boulevard and offers some stunning views of LA. The lobby is spacious and well designed, with sleek interiors and architecture. The rooms are equally chic with pretty spacious bathrooms, but the real lure here is the outside of the hotel where art hangs from the building and it’s fun to walk around the hotel property to see the LA city views from the hills. Similar to the Line Hotel, the rooftop pool isn’t very big (think more narrow than wide) but it does offer some insane, unobstructed views of the city. There’s a small bar on the rooftop that’s really cute and serves up fresh juices and yummy bites for the pool that is very cute and nice to lounge indoors if the LA sun gets too hot. PS: if the property aesthetic reminds you of something, word is that the Jeremy will soon turn into a 1 Hotel property some time in 2019. It just gets better and better.

eat:  eightfold coffee

Located in Echo Park, this coffee spot is the stuff minimalists' design dreams are made of. White washed walls, stripped down barista counter with white marble tops, and a few cool art pieces hanging throughout the cafe. There's also a small, curated collection of books and magazines located at the front of the shop featuring local publications and press.  A NY transplant, the owner named the cafe Eightfold from the book Siddartha, which is a about a man's spiritual journey of self-discovery and 'eightfold' refers to the 8 steps to enlightenment.  Order a cup of their great coffee (or tea), grab a seat, and let the enlightening process begin at this oh-so-hip, yet chill cafe.

eat: bia coffee

Bia is a little cafe in Ktown that serves up amazing flower-infused coffees, lattes, and more. This place couldn't be cuter with a very industrial feel but then contrasted with all the floral drinks they concoct up. (It's no surprise that the owner used to be a florist.) . It's like sensory heaven from the display of the baked goods to the aromatic mix of coffee beans with notes of lavender and rose in the air. Try their signature drink, the Bia Rose Latte, which is topped with an edible rose and rose powder just in case you need more... rose. Their cakes are amazing and so cute; try the lavender cake but you might find it to be too pretty to eat! Def a fav spot of mine.

eat: bottega louie

This upscale, yet casual eatery in downtown LA reminds me a little of Laduree in Paris. Both an eatery and a patisserie, huge displays of pastel colored macaroons among other delicious baked goodies greet you at the door at this go-to spot. The space itself is beautiful and spacious, and on a gorgeous LA day, the whole restaurant gets filled with sunlight and seemingly glimmers. Grab a bite, nosh on macaroons, or just pop in for a pic but there's no question that Bottega Louie is a classic LA hotspot.

eat: TOCAYA ORGANICA

With several locations in LA, this inviting fast casual spot serves up some great Mexican food in a spacious and airy setting. Priding itself on serving modern, organic Mexican with high quality ingredients, Tocaya is kind of like Chipotle’s more upscale, sophisticated sister. With a wide selection of salads, burritos, bowls, tacos, etc made to order, it’s a great place to grab a bite and hang out. The WeHo location has a large outdoor patio area, if you’re looking for the best location to eat outside.

eat: backyard bowls

For as many juice shops that are in LA, almost all of them now do acai bowls. And there’s no shortage of juice shops or acai bowls in LA but I do love Backyard Bowls. Originally from Santa Barbara, they now have several locations throughout LA but my favorite location is the one in Beverly Grove because of the neighborhood. It’s on the same block as Blue Bottle Coffee and neighboring design stores so it’s perfect to sit outside, people watch and just enjoy the charming area of Beverly Grove. The bowls here are fresh and delicious with a nice variety of interesting toppings and add-ons to choose from including bee pollen, coconut oil, and matcha. The best part is that you can watch your bowl being assembled from the glass window station in the back.

eat:  the punchbowl

There's obviously no shortages of juice bars in LA, but there's something about the Punchbowl that makes it stand out a little more from all the others. If you want your standard, #basic smoothie comprised of boring fruits and a splash of boxed coconut water, this isn't your spot. Take their Rita Hayworth juice for example. It has: evening primrose oil, strawberry, rosewater, coconut yogurt, raw honey, almond milk, and coconut meat. Did you catch all that or did I lose you at evening primrose oil? Oh and by the way, it was started by 2 Brooklynites. As if they needed the cool factor upped when they're putting rosewater in their smoothies... rosewater!

eat:  brian's shave ice

This is me missing Hawaii. I was so happy to have found a shaved ice place in LA and Brian's was so good and reminded me of the ones I've had in Hawaii. Here you'll find all the tropical syrups flavors and even the Dole pineapple soft serve to add into your shaved ice. So good! They have 3 locations but the one in Sherman Oaks is a larger location with more seating. Otherwise the West LA one is fine too but with limited seating.

eat: malibu farm

Malibu is magical. How would it not be? Aside from the gorgeous beaches (and houses), the classic chill California vibes, there’s Nobu, Surf Rider, the Getty Villa and of course the Malibu Pier where one of my fav spots is located, Malibu Farm. Located on both ends of the iconic Malibu Pier, this casual, Instagram-worthy eatery is a must go to when in Malibu. The perfect place to sit, enjoy the beach, and watch the surfers catch their waves, Malibu Farm serves up some insanely tasty dishes that are locally sourced and classic farm-to-table. Between the 2 different restaurants, I prefer the more casual one at the end of the pier, MF Cafe, especially for breakfast or lunch. This is more casual than the restaurant and is counter-service vs table service, but I love grabbing a table outside on the upper deck and taking in the Malibu views. The food is so delish, simple, and fresh, I suggest sharing as much as you can to taste as much of the menu. They have a shop across the cafe that carries some classic surf merch as well as apothecary and knick knacks that are fun to browse. One of my favorite spots in all of Cali!

eat: joan's on third

This casual, yet chic family-owned marketplace/ eatery is basically an LA institution. Named after the owner, Joan McNamara and the street the shop is located on, West Third Street, this gourmet style eatery is frequented by celebrities and Angelenos for their freshly made salads, sandwiches and baked goods. The ambience is warm and inviting, and looks like something straight out of a Nancy Meyers’ movie (cue Something’s Gotta Give). There’s a full breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu but the best time to really go is for lunch, where you can grab a sandwich and sit outside to people watch. The only catch is it’s also the busiest time to go and usually hard to grab a table outside, but if you have the time and patience to wait, then it’s worth the wait. Check out their selection on the store side, where you’ll find a curation of hard to find speciality foods like locally sourced cheese, imported pasta from Italy and sea salt from France.

eat: TOCA MADERA

Yes, there is no shortage of amazing taquerias and Mexican food in LA. Ask anyone and almost everyone will name a different spot for their favorite taco/Mexican craving fix and most likely will have more than 1 spot, so to each their own. It is hard to narrow down just one place for ‘the best’ Mexican spot in LA. Toca Madera isn’t ‘the best’ or a top fav of mine, but it is really good. Between the nicely lush decor and their menu of delicious offerings, it is a spot I like to frequent when I’m in LA. Their street taco box is to DIE FOR, especially the carne asada tacos. SO good! Don’t let the club-like entrance (roped off on the weekends with a bouncer-like guy in the front) deter you, the food is legit here. Even better, is that they’re open until 2am on the weekends.

eat: DOUBTING THOMAS

I stumbled upon this place while exploring my way through Silver Lake, which is an up and coming area of East LA that’s trending with its mix of shops, artisanal coffee shops, and trendy bars/restaurants. Maybe that’s why the lines were so long everywhere I went. So then I drove past and found myself in the heart of Filipinotown to find this amazing cafe/coffee shop. Opened by a former pastry chef, this well designed cafe is more than your usual dose of ‘cute cafes’. The pastries here are so beautiful and more importantly delicious, with interesting artisianal combo flavors such as yellow nectarine ricotta pastries, grapefruit pie, and plum filled puff pastries. Beautifully displayed with handwritten name cards, it’ll be hard to walk away with just one. It’s no surprise as the owner, Naomi Shim, takes her pastries seriously and with meticulous attention to detail. Apparently her standards for her pastries are super high, and it shows. If you want to have some food before indulging in dessert, they have a small, but nice menu of food offerings as well, so plan to stay awhile and enjoy.

eat: liquid juice bar

Yes, another juice bar rec in LA, I know….redundant. But I like this juice bar because of the portions. The smoothies and juices here larger than most for the price, and they do some delish acai bowls as well. Located on Melrose Ave, it’s not a spot that offers anything particularly special to come out of your way here for, but if you’re in the neighborhood and wanting a legit juice spot, then come here.

eat: vito's pizza

If there’s one thing NYC has over LA, it’s their pizza. Although it’s hard for me to tire of fresh juices, amazing Mexican food, and acai bowls, there’s always a moment when I’m in LA and just want a good ole’ slice of NY pizza. And Vito’s is just where to go. A small pizza joint located in a strip mall in WeHo, this spot serves up some legit pies with a side of serious tracks: 90s rap. What could be better? Oh yea, seeing Vito himself, making and serving up your order, which is a high likelihood. Talk him up and you’ll find out that he’s from Jersey….close enough.

Eat: SHIKI BEV HILLS

I found this Japanese gem while walking through Beverly Hills and I couldn’t have been happier. This no frills Japanese spot has some of the best tasting sushi and classic Japanese dishes including a Wagyu beef udon that melts in your mouth. It’s a great neighborhood spot that’s casual and unassuming. There’s also a few neighboring bars and restaurants nearby for after-dinner drinks or a nice afternoon or evening stroll.

DRINK: LAUREL HARDWARE

If you didn’t know what you were looking for, you would definitely walk past this place thinking it was really a hardware store that was closed for the night. Other than the original neon yellow sign that still marks the spot, this place is anything but what it used to be which was a hardware store that sold hammers, nails, and such. Walk inside and you’ll find the chic decor of a restaurant where the cool crowd has gathered to wine and dine. The interior is rustic, yet modern with an outdoor area giving garden vibes, and an inviting bar that boosts some of the best tasting mezcal focused cocktail infusions that are tasty and visually appealing. Butch hardware store? Not here.

drink: wally's wine bar

Located in Beverly Hills, this wine mecca bar/restaurant is classic Beverly Hills and known for it’s insanely large, overwhelming selection of wines from all over the world. There are walls and walls of bottles from magnums to rare finds and everything in between. It turns into quite the scene in the evening where you’ll most likely spot a celeb, or at least guaranteed for some classic LA people watching. Don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by huge security guys when coming through in the evening. Apparently the bar has to be on alert because of some of the high priced bottles on display at the restaurant and they’ve had issues in the past with people taking a bottle and making a run for it. Regardless, if you’re looking for a spot to sit, relax, and have your pick of wines from what looks like the wine bible, this is your place.

explore: ROSE BOWL FLEA

This world-famous flea market is no secret, but it def is a fav of mine. Located in Pasadena, this flea market draws a crowd as eclectic as the goods found here. From the fashion crowd to the hardcore antiques experts, people come near and far to score everything from furniture to vintage records and everything in between. It always takes place on the 2nd Sunday of every month, rain or shine. Prepare to spend hours here, which is the only way to do it really, and be prepared to scour and haggle your way to one-off pieces that you would’ve never found otherwise. You’ll feel quite the sense of accomplishment afterwards.

explore: Detox market

Having stumbled upon this clean beauty mecca back in 2015, it's been a cult fav of my ever since. Carrying some of the best organic, natural beauty lines ranging from small, lesser known brands to larger ones like May Lindstrom and Rahua, Detox is a beauty lover's sanctuary. If you want to know what's the next IT product or brand in beauty, come here. I've seen products stocked here well before they get the mainstream following and hit the shelves of Barneys and Bergdorfs. Spritz, spray, and test your way through the entire store and don't be afraid to enlist the help of the oh-so knowledgeable shop assistants.

explore: the piece collective

Located in the oh-so-cool Venice area, this is one of my favorite shops in all of CA. Perfectly edited, the curation of product here from jewelry, home goods, to clothes is gorg, and although the store is small, I always end up spending a good 40 mins (and $$) in here, browsing the selection. You'll find a mix of French and American designers here as well as some great jewelry pieces sprinkled throughout the store. The whole store has a very bohemian, laid back coolness to it that I love.

explore: maxfield

Maxfield’s is the chicest address in town, hands down. It’s here you’ll find the best curation of RTW, shoes, jewelry, and everything else that your fashionable heart desires. It can be a little overwhelming with the multiple rooms, but I love going through, especially the jewelry, and appreciating the edit of all my favorite brands like Balenciaga, YSL, Rick Owens, Gucci, and more. There’s a great coffee shop called Verve, a few blocks down from Maxfield’s and a great place to plop down (they have a nice outdoor seating setup) and grab a good cup o’ coffee. There’s also Chrome Hearts down the street from Maxfield which is worth seeing too as they have a nice store as well. The merch there I’m not so into, but the store is very pretty.

explore: book soup

I love me a good book store. Whether it’s a sleekly designed store or a charming little shop selling limited edition or rare books, I love walking into a book store to browse and take in the smell of new (and old) books. Book Soup opened in 1975 and is still going strong in trendy West Hollywood neighborhood. In addition to their great selection of books, they have an awesome selection of international design and fashion mags on full display outside the store. It’s a great little stop on your way down the Sunset Strip.

explore: the goods mart

This is the chicest convenient store you’ll step foot into, hands down. Take a 7/11 and turn it into a healthy, instagram-worthy shop filled with organic snacks, fruits, boxed waters, flowers, and La Colombe coffee and you’ve got The Goods Mart. There’s even an organic slushie machine that pours out Kelvin Slush Co.! The brainchild of a PR founder, there’s also a double meaning behind the name, “Goods Mart”. Yes, it refers to the actual ‘goods’ in the mart, but this new convenient store concept was also based on the idea of giving back and doing ‘good’. In addition to the mostly locally sourced items you can find at Goods Mart which helps support the surrounding community, you can also donate to various charities at checkout, who the store has partnered with to help support. Well designed with a purpose, this is definitely NOT your parents’ pitstop convenient store. Added bonus: it’s located in the trending Silver Lake area where there’s plenty of cute shops and yummy restaurants.

EXPLORE: MELROSE PLACE

I love this little street block right off Melrose Avenue and La Cienega Blvd. It’s so super cute and has some of the best stores all lined up on this small section of about 4 or 5 blocks. You can do the whole walk from start to finish in about 10 mins, but that’s if you don’t pop into any of the stores. Which is not happening. I’ve definitely spent a good hour around this area just window shopping and popping into cafes. A brief lineup of some of the stores you’ll find here: The Row (gorg store, worth going into just to see the store), Zimmermann, The Line, Golden Goose, Balmain, and more. My favorite stores along here are: Mansur Gavriel (they have the cutest cafe/restaurant inside the store that is the perfect place to sit and unwind for a bit), Glossier (always fun to go inside any Glossier spot), The Row (beautifully designed store, super zen), Alfred Tea shop (get your matcha fix inside this cute cafe).

explore: fred segal

What’s more 90s than Britney Spears, Paris HIlton, Clueless, and Fred Segal?? Once a major Melrose staple and fixture for the trendy fashion gals in the 90s, (Juicy Couture track suits anyone?), this store lost steam for awhile but has now reopened, bigger and better, on Sunset Blvd. Taking up almost 2 blocks on the Strip, this 90s revival of a store focuses on the lifestyle concept with a large beauty section of well curated (mostly organic) brands, a flower stand, and home goods section along with the clothing. There’s also a cafe and bakery in case you get hungry exploring the 13,000 sq ft new flagship. Honestly, the beauty/apothecary section is worth the visit and maybe the (small) flower shop, but not much else in the store.