Arrival/Check-In: I arrived at the hotel in what felt like a few minutes after landing at LAX, no surprise since it is only three miles from the airport. I especially liked the proximity to the airport a few days later when catching an early flight home. The friendly staff at the front desk were fast and efficient in getting me checked in and on the way to my room. The hotel has a sleek, minimalist décor with muted colors accented with floral arrangements that I found soothing, especially after a long transcontinental trip.

Guest Quarters: My room was on the ground floor, which I was not too keen about at first. However, I soon realized one benefit is no time wasted waiting for elevators.

My room included one king-sized bed and a double sofa bed; an easy chair; a desk with desktop-level outlets for recharging one’s computer, iPad and phone; and a 55-inch, flat-screen TV. There was also a mini refrigerator, a safe, an iron/ironing board, a coffee/tea maker and free bottled water. And I always appreciate complimentary high-speed internet service.

The bathroom had a sink and a shower. The sleek, minimalist décor carried over here, as well.

Services/Amenities: The lobby has an open, free-form design that encompasses the bar/lounge and the breakfast area, where lots of windows provide plenty of natural light.

PHOTO: © AC HOTEL LOS ANGELES SOUTH BAY

The hotel restaurant, Flora, is located on the roof and includes an interior bar and an outdoor patio area with views of El Segundo and LAX. I was told the sunset views from the roof can be spectacular, and seeing the lights of the planes coming into the airport at night proves quite an experience. One of the things I liked about the patio area: The vegetables they use are grown behind it, so diners can see where the vegetable dishes come from. Talk about eating locally!

The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center as well as a business center.

With four meeting rooms and its location so close to LAX, the hotel makes an ideal venue for business meetings.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ My stay was made pleasant because of the hotel staff’s friendly and accommodating attitude toward guests. A great staff is the first thing you remember about a hotel stay.

◆ The hotel prides itself on being pet-friendly. Although I have not had a dog in sometime, I am always pleased hotels allow the family pet.

◆ Many Los Angeles-area aerospace firms have major facilities nearby, so the hotel is likely a convenient place to stay when making a business call on these firms.

AC Hotel Los Angeles South Bay
2130 E. Maple Ave. El Segundo, CA 90245
tel 310 322 3333
marriott.com