FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

The Hollywood Roosevelt

by William Papa

Jan 1, 2018
Hotels

Arrival/Check-In: I arrived mid-afternoon on a Sunday after my taxi fought the notorious Los Angeles traffic from LAX. The guest arrival entrance is around back, and staff was very attentive to me and the other arriving guests. While waiting to be checked in, I admired the tile fountain in the arrival desk area, which created a calming effect. I wandered down a hall, following the sound of upbeat music, which led me to the Tropicana Café pool area. Since it was a weekend and the weather was favorable, the area was filled with hotel guests and pool guests alike — all having drinks, laughs and fun. It seems the Tropicana Café pool is used for private parties and as a place to relax on the weekend for L.A. locals. After quickly checking in and receiving a complimentary bottle of water, I went up to my room in the Tower section. I wanted to change into my bathing suit and grab a bite to eat back at the pool lounge.

Guest Quarters: The Tower building has 12 floors, each showcasing large black-and-white pictures of old Hollywood on the walls in the hallways. My room, a Superior Tower room, featured a queen-sized canopy bed; hardwood floors; a desk; a large, flat-screen TV; and plenty of comfortable couches and chairs in the 300-square-foot area.

I noticed a handwritten note on the desk from guest relations welcoming me, signed by Nicole, Bryce and Juliana — a nice touch. The hardwood floors, leather furniture and simple design reminded me of a New York City-style loft. My windows overlooked Hollywood Boulevard, with the sidewalks bearing the Walk of Fame stars. The office building next to the hotel slightly obscured the iconic Hollywood sign, but Grauman’s Chinese Theatre was in clear sight. I did not take advantage of the fully stocked minibar but thoroughly enjoyed the Davines bathroom amenities. The water closet was separate from the shower, which had a great rain shower option.

Services/Amenities: I spent a few hours on the day of check-in at the Tropicana Café pool area. The menu offered American fare with burgers, fries, salads and sandwiches and a good selection of brunch cocktails. A cold beer paired nicely with my burger for a lunch by the pool. Behind some palm trees near the pool sat the Garden, a smaller outdoor Southern California beer garden. These were two of the four restaurants in the hotel. I also tried 25 Degrees for breakfast each morning, which filled me up with eggs, bacon, toast and delicious hash browns. Public Kitchen & Bar, the Roosevelt’s classic American brasserie created by Tim Goodell, serves a fantastic charred Spanish octopus. The bar options impressed me; my favorite was the Spare Room, referring to the “spares” its patrons left on the bar’s two-lane bowling alley. Other amenities include a 24-hour gym and room service, which I did not get the chance to experience.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ The hotel and the multimilliondollar mural on the bottom of the Tropicana pool both are designated Historic-Cultural Monuments by L.A.’s Cultural Heritage Commission.

◆ There is so much to do inside the hotel with its restaurant and bar options, you may forget you are in the heart of Hollywood until you step outside on the Walk of Fame.

◆ Marilyn Monroe lived in the hotel for two years early in her career. Rumor has it her ghost still haunts the hotel!

THE HOLLYWOOD ROOSEVELT

7000 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
tel 323 856 1970
thehollywoodroosevelt.com

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
May 15, 2025

Mansions, Gardens, Museums and More Await in Greater Wilmington, Delaware

Lovely any time of year, Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley in Delaware shine in spring and summer, providing an easy getaway from nearby major cities like Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Baltimore; and New York City. Wind down with a stroll along the riverfront, or time your visit to enjoy outdoor and indoor sites, plus plenty of great food on these dates:

Sail Unique with Explora Journeys

SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.

May 2025
May 15, 2025

Culture Runs Deep in the Old Town of Corfu

Corfu, or Kerkyra, as the Greeks call it, is arguably one of the most beautiful islands in Greece — and one of the most cultured. Part of the Ionian Islands located off the western coast of Greece and Albania, it boasts a storied history dating back nearly 3,000 years and a heritage shaped by many foreign rulers who made it their own.

Daily
May 15, 2025

Sleep Therapy, Foodie Fests and a Star-Studded Debut Await in Newport Beach in 2025

Heading to Newport Beach, California, this summer? If not, you might want to rethink it. The destination offers new and exciting happenings this upcoming season.

Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage

Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.

Daily
May 15, 2025

Rox Resort to Open November 2025 on Denmark’s Southern Coast

Rox Resort recently announced plans to open its doors Nov. 1 in Køge, a harbor town 30 minutes from Copenhagen. Swedish hospitality group ESS develops the 154-guestroom, design-forward, chef-driven resort.

eFlyer Deals
May 14, 2025

Viking Launches Exclusive May Sales

Viking welcomes May with special savings across its award-winning river, ocean and expedition voyages. Through its May promotion, all-inclusive river cruises start at just $1,199, complete with free international airfare and $25 deposit. Save up to $3,000 per couple on ocean cruises or up to $4,000 per couple on expedition voyages, as well as airfare and just a $25 deposit on either cruise.

Seoul: Your Next MICE Destination

Seoul has rapidly become a leading global MICE hub, known for its rich culture, advanced technology and strong economy. As the capital of South Korea, it offers a strategic location in East Asia and a booming cultural influence through K-pop, K-movies, Korean cuisine and K-dramas. With its vibrant atmosphere and business-friendly environment, Seoul is increasingly the top choice for MICE organizers and corporate travelers seeking connection and collaboration.

eFlyer Deals
May 14, 2025

Ecoventura Launches Once-in-a-Lifetime Sale in Galápagos This Summer

Ecoventura, the only Relais & Chateaux cruise brand in the Galápagos, launches a flash sale on its own sails. Save up to 25 percent off one of its all-inclusive luxury cruises when booking select departure dates. (See departure dates here.)