The travel world is slowly beginning to open up and some adjustments have been implemented for travel safety to be in line with CDC guidelines for COVID-19. A staycation in La Jolla, California at La Valencia Hotel, was my first hotel stay since the Covid pandemic started this year. Ironically enough, 2020 was a year my husband and I had a lot of overseas travel planned. We did get in one trip to Los Cabos, Mexico in January, but shortly, thereafter, there was Covid, quarantine, closures and travel bans to certain countries. As a result, the trips were put on hold. For my 50th birthday in August, I originally wasn’t planning on being in the country but by the time May rolled around, I knew we would be celebrating somewhere closer to home. So we took a short 30 minute drive to La Jolla and spent a weekend at La Valencia Hotel. It proved to be just as special and fun as anything else I could have done! Those that celebrated with me over the course of a few days did so much to make this a special time to always remember. I am beyond grateful for their thoughtfulness and love.
The hotel is in the heart of La Jolla Village and since 1926, it has been a destination and retreat along this beautiful coast of Southern California. Its iconic pink exterior along with a Mediterranean feel is perfectly perched above the Pacific Ocean with dramatic coastal views. I love hotels that are quaint, more boutique, luxury type, yet have been updated with modern style. This hotel fit all those categories! The walkability to the village, shops, restaurants, and the La Jolla Cove made it a great place to be and enjoy all the area had to offer.
The Rooms
There are several room types to choose from at La Valencia Hotel and I don’t believe you can go wrong with any of them. We stayed in the Icon Sunset Suite on the 9th floor which boasts amazing views of the ocean and pool area below. The balcony off of the living area was nice to enjoy as was the large window in the bedroom overlooking the ocean. I love having lots of natural light and fresh air in my hotel room. The renovated rooms have a sleek, modern edge and very comfortable as well. I loved the modern updates of this 1926 hotel. I also saw the Vintage King Ocean View rooms with a balcony and that is a favorite as well for a short stay. The interior redesign they have done is crisp and brilliant! During this time of COVID, little changes in the rooms are noticeable such as the in room coffee maker is removed and the mini bar is empty. So some of the amenities you would normally enjoy have been removed for the time being. This is a very pet friendly hotel. I didn’t have my fur baby with me this time but dogs are often seen around the property and poolside. I love that the well traveled pet can enjoy this luxury getaway alongside their owners.
My Favorites at La Valencia
The pool area was my favorite place to spend time while staying at La Valencia. The service we received poolside was impeccable! The refreshing cocktails and poolside snacks made for such a relaxing day with the ocean breeze. Tied for one of my favorites at this hotel was the view from our 9th floor room, the Iconic Sunset Suite. The sunsets over the ocean were a sight to see from our living room and balcony. It was pure heaven!
Weekend Bubbly Brunch
At the time of my stay, only patio outdoor dining was allowed in San Diego County but when dining al-fresco at The MED, it honestly is the best way to fully enjoy the bubbly brunch. The front patio area offers live music during brunch which is a nice touch. I preferred sitting outside on the patio at The MED that overlooks the ocean while I enjoyed their amazing food and a mimosa. It’s mice to have a choice of venue for whatever kind of vibe you are looking to have during your bubbly brunch time!
Hotel Travel During This Covid Awareness Climate
With new procedures and guest policies La Valencia had in place for travelers during this time of Covid awareness, I felt completely comfortable and safe during my stay. Here are few things to be aware of if you decide to travel and book a hotel during this new time of Covid awareness.
- Ask if the hotel is offering room service as not all hotels are offering that right now.
- Clarify which restaurants at the hotel are open and hours of operation.
- Be prepared to wear a mask in public areas or common areas of the hotel.
- Most are not offering valet parking. Be sure to ask at the time of booking about parking options especially if parking is off-site like in a lot of metropolitan area.
- Some amenities may be removed from the guest rooms such as mini bar refreshments, in room coffee maker, etc.
- Make reservations ahead of time for any dining at the hotel since tables are spaced and there may be limited availability.
Life is short and the world is wide! I look forward to bringing you more travel suggestions, ideas and reviews again as we begin to venture out slowly but surely into this beautiful world we get to enjoy!
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Until then….I’ll always be chasing sunsets.
Xoxo,
