LA Was Not a Total Loss: Hotels & Handbags

I know, I know...you missed me terribly. And I, you. But I am back from that city on the other side of the country. I stayed at the London yet again, and aside from the biggest bug that was hiding in my bath towel, the experience was great. And, we are all fortunate because while dining han-solo-style at the bar at Gordon Ramsay (which is on the ground floor of the hotel), I met a NYC-based handbag designer named Darren Wallace who I am now extremely anxious to see more from. The pictured bag is Parker Lamb Clutch - Redwood and if you go to his site you will see a couple other bags - including an award-winner that was featured on CBS this morning. Now, you all know that I am not a fan of the PURSE, but I am a sucker when meeting an artist in person! Stay tuned on this newcomer - he promises that his site will soon be more robust!

The London West Hollywood

I had the great good fortune to stay in The London West Hollywood last week. If I could stay there indefinitely I might not dread my tri-yearly Los Angeles day job trips.

Between the decor throughout the lobby (metallic gold leather couches!) and the rooms (3' deep bathtubs! Balcony!) and the restaurant (Gordon Ramsay), this is a spot to be seen, desired and devoured. And, compared to NYC prices, it's practically a steal! I think my room averaged about $265 a night, and the prix fixe lunch at the restaurant was around $27 for two courses and $35 for three.

I highly recommend it!