How to Find Hotels In Bel Air, California

Bel Air, California is a tony destination in the heart of Los Angeles. Finding budget or even reasonably priced accommodations here won't be easy, but you'll find plenty of upscale shopping, dining and sightseeing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer with access to the Internet
• Maps and/or a Thomas Guide

Know Your Destination

1. Consider your budget. You may be able to save money by booking accommodations in Santa Monica, Hollywood, Westwood or one of the other neighborhoods in close proximity to Bel Air.

2. Remember that Bel Air is a very residential neighborhood. It's heaven for visitors who love looking at beautiful mansions but may be too tame for those seeking lots of nightlife and urban excitement.

3. Bring warm layers. Los Angeles is a desert, so it cools off at night. Evening temperatures can drop as low as 50 degrees F even when the days are hot and sunny.

4. Bring history to life. Drive by the late President Ronald Reagan's home at 668 St. Cloud Road. Former First Lady Nancy Reagan still resides here.

5. Drive past 750 Bel Air Road. If you're a fan of '"he Beverly Hillbillies" TV show, you'll recognize this California mansion, built in 1938.

6. Remember that Bel Air isn't located along the coast. If you want crashing ocean waves to lull you to sleep at night, consider Malibu or Santa Monica, California.

Find and Book Your Room

7. To book accommodations, contact Bel Air Association at [phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

8. Select accommodations with tempting amenities or services. Many Bel Air hotels will have onsite spa services, private hot tubs or other luxuries. Some services require an appointment, so make yours well in advance.

9. Search for hotels and B&Bs online. Narrow your search to your particular needs and wants: adding terms like "business," "family-friendly" or "pet-friendly" to your search will help you separate the wheat from the chaff.

10. Ask about discounts before booking your room. Your AAA membership or AARP card may secure you a lower rate.

11. Compare photos online. Because taste can be so subjective, photographs of hotel rooms and public areas are better than mere descriptions for helping you envision your stay.

12. Book the accommodations that fit your price point and have the desired amenities; you can do this through your local travel agent, via the hotel's Web site or through an online travel site.

13. Ask friends, coworkers and family members if they recommend any accommodations in Bel Air. You may find it easiest to send out a mass email on the subject.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are a frequent traveler to Los Angeles, consider purchasing a Thomas Guide. This book contains very detailed maps of the city.
• Bring quarters: you may have to park at a meter while shopping or sightseeing.
• If you have discount cards such as AAA or AARP, now is the time to use them--Bel Air lodgings aren't cheap.
• Los Angeles is a driving town. Always designate a driver if you are going to be drinking.
• Consult your map before you start driving.