Written by Sarah Tinoco

Los Angeles often gets lost in its identity as Tinseltown, La-La Land, home to the rich and famous. Beyond the glitz and glam of the city, however, lies evidence of its history and presence as a diverse and cultural hub. Los Angeles and the rest of California were part of Mexico until during the Mexican-American War from 1846 to 1848, and this part of history is reflected as Los Angeles continues to boast the largest Mexican population in the United States. Los Angeles is also home to the U.S.’s largest Asian immigrant population. In fact, its Filipino, Korean, Taiwanese, and Thai populations are the most sizable in the nation. 

Given the city’s cultural diversity and influence, there is no shortage of what’s considered cool in Los Angeles. In true El Camino Travel fashion, we’re steering you off-the-beaten-path—skipping Nobu, Gjusta, LACMA, and Erewhon— to deliver a taste of the city’s cultural gems. We’re covering the most exciting spots to eat and drink, the coolest places to shop that you haven’t seen all over Instagram, and the luxurious yet cozy boutique hotels that you won’t want to leave as soon as you check in. 

This guide was made possible by the contributions of ECT Clubhouse members Jolyn C.,  Brenda D., Briana M., and Erica Z., and friends of ECT, Isabelle Dimang and Diana Schvartsberg.

Stay

Escape to Silver Lake Pool & Inn in Silver Lake. This self-defined urban oasis from Palisociety houses 54 guest rooms, adorned with natural light, custom, locally-sourced furniture, and terrazzo accents. The picturesque, elevated pool deck transports guests to someplace far beyond the city of Los Angeles. Marco Polo, the hotel’s restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner al fresco. Grab a seat at its impeccably designed, sun-kissed bar at happy hour.

Also included in the guide:

• A Spanish-style apartment in West Hollywood with mid-century modern accents, a sun-drenched pool, and outdoor living space with an electric fire pit.

• An independent boutique hotel with uniquely designed rooms that boast their own private terraces.

• A characterful Airbnb decorated with eclectic art with two decks and a backyard to spend time enjoying the gorgeous California weather in privacy.

Shop

If you can’t make the trip to LA, Diana recommends shopping for ethically made textiles from Sauy Sew Shop online. “This is a sustainable LA-based sewing shop that sells repurposed textile goods—it's pretty amazing. They describe themselves as a 100% vertical sewing and production shop, founded and owned by a woman, Lindsay Rose Medoff. The focus is on utilizing waste, deadstock and domestic fibers to go against traditional fashion waste.” Sauy Sew Shop’s mission is ‘Know your grower, know your sew-er,' as the brand also supports garment workers’ rights. “Good luck shopping here and not purchasing their beautiful linen napkins!” warns Diana.

Also included in the guide:

• Where to shop woman-made wine, beer, and sake, plus books and other culinary gifts.

•  A boutique selling beautiful homewares that are designed in Venice and produced in a pottery district in Japan.

• A LA-based American textiler selling “phenomenal” vintage linens

Eat

For “Oaxacan food with an LA flare,” ECT member, Brenda, favors Guelaguetza in Koreatown. Guelaguetza is a family-owned restaurant, opened by an immigrant couple and operated today by the couple’s children, including chef and author Bricia Lopez. Guelaguetza serves authentic Oaxacan food from family recipes passed down over generations. Direct your attention to the moles y tlayudas to enjoy a taste of Oaxaca right in LA.

Also included in the guide:

• “Legit Thai and killer natural wines” recommended by ECT member Brianna.

• A hole-in-the-wall and family-owned Japanese cafe where you must try the red bean cakes.

• A neighborhood Cambodian spot serving numpang (Khmer sandwiches), rice bowls, and other plates.

Join the ECT Clubhouse—our digital community of well-traveled experts and women—to access the full guide. Get a two-week free trial to get inside and start exploring right away.

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