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Destination Diaries

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Hotel Figueroa

By Angela Ash

hotelfigroom

Located just down the street from the Staples Center, in the heart of bustling downtown Los Angeles, is another world.  No... quite literally. 

The Hotel Figueroa, or "the Fig", as the locals call it, is an oasis from the sights, sounds, and even the smells that one would associate with a big city.  Upon entering, realize that you will leave LA behind, and you will be fully immersed in a vibrant, Moroccan wonderland.  Hrmmm... and you thought you were just checking into your hotel. 

There is so much attention to detail that it is really difficult to describe.  The walls are not walls.  They are the backdrops for ethnic paintings, intricate pieces of art, and woven tapestries.  The corridors do not merely lead to rooms, but offer an overload of visual imaginings that have transformed your thoughts before you even arrive.  In other words,this place is pretty freaking cool.

hotelfiglobby

If you can manage to tear yourself away from the sights and sounds of the lobby, reminiscent of an exotic marketplace, the wonders of your temporary abode awaits.  Once a YWCA residence, no residue of anything remotely mundane has survived.  Offering guest rooms to accommodate every traveler's needs, the Hotel Figueroa mixes comfort and the eclectic into a blend of spices that provide both the modern amenities and the exotic touches that so eloquently chronicle its entire existence.  And if you need even a bit more theme, try one of the Moroccan Suites.  I have no idea HOW they can improve upon the standard rooms, unless the upgrade involves overseas travel. 

And no oasis is complete without a sparkling outdoor pool and hot tub.  The pool area is directly connected to the bar, which is as charming and mystical as everything else... probably even more so after a few of the carefully crafted libations that are offered. 

In short, this is THE best hotel I have had the opportunity to call my temporary "home" for a very long time.  And I am in terrible withdrawal.  A whiff of incense or a smooth floor beneath my feet sends me right back to my happy place... the magnificent Hotel Figueroa.

Visit them online for additional information, or call 213-627-8971.