With your US ESTA Visa on Holidays in Los Angeles

US ESTA visa online application and your Los Angeles Holiday – Travel with a US ESTA Visa

The US ESTA application. Before traveling to the USA and LA, you’ll have to arrange for your US Visa. Instead of a conventional US Visa, you might consider going for your ESTA Visa – No matter, if you are an entrepreneur, or work for a large corporation before you can start your Business venture to Chicago those formalities have to be taken care of. You’ll either need a regular USA Visa or an ESTA Visa. You can find the online ESTA application form here. Welcome to our  US ESTA Visa travel guide for Chicago Illinois. “ESTA” stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security manages the VWP which issues the US ESTA Visa.

But now let’s take a look at the City of angles. What is now a major US metropolis was once the small settlement of Nuestra Señora la Reina de Los Angeles. Founded by Mexicans in 1781, LA grew to accommodate over four million people. As a multicultural region, half of the city’s inhabitants are immigrants from all over the world. Together with the cultural diversity, the modernity of Los Angeles makes it one of the main touristic destinations in America. 

British travelers with a US ESTA visa

Most British travelers seek LA for the Californian sun or the glamour of Hollywood. Some may visit the region only to tread the Walk of Fame and photograph celebrities. Yet the City of Angels has much more than film stars and sunshine to offer. One can’t forget the 120km of beautiful coastline. Or the cosmopolitan atmosphere and varied cuisine with high-quality restaurants. Or even the many museums, markets, the lively nightlife, amusement parks, film studios, and endless shopping alternatives. 

Over 40 million tourists visit Los Angeles every year. If you are planning to escape the UK winter, we have prepared the ideal LA holiday guide for you. Find tips on flights to LAX, the best hotels and restaurants in the city, and sightseeing suggestions.

Complete your ESTA application online here!

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ESTA online application advise – Flying from the UK to Los Angeles on Holiday

Many airlines fly from the UK to Los Angeles, but most direct flights leave from one of London Gatwick and Luton airports. Companies such as United, Swiss and American Airlines offer economy tickets starting from $200 one way. Return flights can sometimes be purchased for as little as $350. In business class, British passengers can fly one-way for $1500 with airlines such as Westjet. A return costs around $2000. Promo fares may bring those prices down to $700 and $1200, respectively. First-class return flights to LAX range between $7500 and $12000, usually with a stopover in Europe or New York.

• Lounges at LAX

 

As the second busiest airport in the USA and the fourth in the world, LAX has plenty of excellent lounges. Check out the following options when waiting for your flight to London or other UK destinations.

• Alaska Lounge

Situated on the mezzanine level of Terminal 6, the Alaska Lounge offers access to Priority Pass Members from 4.30 am till 11 pm. Overcrowding is not uncommon on this recently renovated area. Travelers can enjoy a selection of complimentary snacks and non-premium alcoholic beverages all day long. Starbucks coffee is also free of charge. The play area makes it ideal for families traveling with children. 

• Delta Sky Club

Although not a luxurious lounge, the Delta Sky remains a favorite among travelers for the quality of its customer service. Located on Terminal 3, it boasts panoramic views of the runway. In addition to the view and the helpful staff, Sky Club members can savor a vast selection of food and beverages. SkyTeam Elite Plus status-holders and those flying in Delta One or SkyTeam premium cabin may also access the lounge. 

 

• Lounges at Heathrow

London Heathrow holds the position of “world’s second busiest airport by international passenger traffic.” It is also a major departure point to Los Angeles from the United Kingdom. Below are our suggestions for the best lounges at LHR.

 

• Cathay Lounge

The newly renovated Cathay Pacific lounge on Terminal 3 features customized artworks by contemporary artist Han Feng. With over 1,200 square meters dotted with plants, the lounge makes you forget you are at the airport. The area is divided into business and first-class sections. Passengers of Cathay first-class can opt for an a la carte menu at The Dining Room or a self-service buffet at The Pantry. Meanwhile, business class travelers have a rich selection of international dishes at The Food Hall. The lounge also provides shower suites and a workspace with high-speed WiFi. Besides Cathay passengers, members of Silver and Marco Polo Club, as well as Sapphire and OneWorld, can enjoy the facilities.

• Emirates Lounge

ESTA recommends – Located near Gate 7 of Terminal 3, this lounge welcomes both business and first-class flyers of Emirates. Among the main features are the elegant design, huge windows, shower facilities, workspace, and a prayer room. The bar has a great selection of spirits, while the chefs prepare everything from fresh fruit salads to mains of salmon. Yet the highlight of the Emirates Lounge is that passengers may access the plane directly from the lounge. Skywards members flying economy may access this space for a fee of US$100.

Complete your ESTA application online here!

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ESTA online application suggests – Los Angeles Holiday Accommodation

All sorts of British travelers visit LA, from families to couples and film lovers. But when choosing accommodation, it is impossible to be close to all main tourist attractions since they are scattered throughout the city. So it is important to understand what you want to see and plan accordingly. Also keep in mind what mode of transportation you will use: car or public transport. 

Santa Monica is one of the nicest and safest regions in the city. Hollywood, on the other hand, has two metro stations that take you to the main touristic spots of LA. If you wish to have a celebrity experience, Beverly Hills is the ideal place. Downtown LA has a great selection of quality and affordable accommodation. Tourist attractions like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Museum of Contemporary Art are located in this neighborhood. The airport region is one of the cheapest places to stay in. However, the area offers no other upside to tourists.

Here you can find a shortlist of the top hotels in LA, ranging from 3 to 5 stars.

• Hotel Hampton Inn Los Angeles Int’l Airport/Hawthorne (3 Stars)

 

Despite only 3 stars, many travel sites rate this hotel “Fabulous”. The Hampton Inn offers free transfer to the airport, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour reception, luggage storage, and an excellent breakfast. As for the location, it sits between the Los Angeles Hawthorne Municipal Airport and the International LAX. This makes it perfect for those who intend to rent a car. The rooms are furnished with a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and most have private bathrooms. Guests can also request laundry and ironing services.

• Hotel Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport (3 Stars)

 

This is the closest you can get to LAX. The Hyatt also has easy access to Marina Del Ray, Westchester Golf Course, and Hollywood. Regarding the services, it offers guests free Wi-Fi, an excellent gym and restaurant, as well as an outdoor pool. If you look for space and comfort at an affordable rate, this is a good bet. Rooms feature cable TV, refrigerator and coffee maker, safes, AC, and much needed soundproof windows.   

• Hotel Sheraton Gateway (4 Stars)

 

Among the best affordable hotels in Los Angeles, you may place the Sheraton Gateway on your list. Relatively cheap for a 4-star, this hotel offers excellent accommodation at a convenient location. Its highlights include an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, a 24-hour gym, and a high-end bistro. Contemporary-style rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and even video games for children. Close to LAX, it is a good option for those traveling by car. 

• Kimpton Everly Hotel (4 Stars)

 

One that can’t be left out of the list of holiday hotels in LA is the Kimpton Everly Hotel. Located in Hollywood, guests can easily reach places like the Dolby Theatre, the Walk of Fame, and the Griffith Observatory. Travelers also enjoy magnificent views of Hollywood Hills, an outdoor pool, free bike loans, and yoga classes. The hotel has an excellent on-site restaurant, gym, and the reception stays open 24 hours. Rooms are spacious and furnished with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, AC, and even seating areas. In addition, they offer bathrobes, hairdryer, and beauty products free of charge. 

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• Hotel Intercontinental Los Angeles Downtown (4 Stars)

 

As the name suggests, the InterContinental is situated in Downtown LA. The best thing about its location is that guests can reach all corners of the city with ease. There is plenty of public transport alternatives in this area, which makes it ideal for those who don’t have a car. Attractions such as the Staples Centre, the Grammy Museum, and the Microsoft Theatre rest at walking distance from the hotel. Facilities include a rooftop bar, an outdoor pool, a business center, and a well-rated on-site restaurant. Reception works 24 hours.

 

• ESTA recommends, if your budget allows, you should treat yourself to  The Beverly Hills Hotel (5 Stars)

 

As a 5-star hotel, this is the perfect alternative for those who seek comfort and luxury. Since Beverly Hills is known for its celebrities, it is natural that this exclusive hotel attracts wealthy tourists from around the globe. The decor is extravagant and even features a large red carpet at the entrance. Moreover, the nearby area offers some of the best high-end restaurants in the city. There are over 200 rooms available, all fully equipped with quality designer furniture. The highlight of the Beverly Hills Hotel is the fitness center and outdoor pool. A 15-minute drive takes you to the heart of Hollywood, which is another upside of the hotel. Located in the coveted zip code of 90210, the hotel is within easy proximity of the business and entertainment centers of LA.

• Shore Hotel (5 Stars)

 

If you imagine waking up and looking at Santa Monica beach, the Shore Hotel provides you with just that. Right on Ocean Avenue, close to the pier, this is one of the best 5-star hotels in LA. But quality comes with a price and the rooms here at the top-end in terms of price. Depending on the season, a night at the Shore can cost over $600. Although suites are not big, they breathe comfort. All rooms have a balcony so guests can relish the panoramic view. On top of that, it takes only a few minutes to get to some of the best restaurants in the city.

 

Sightseeing in Los Angeles

The City of Angels fills the imagination of many travel enthusiasts. Most will be quick to associate Los Angeles with places like the Walk of Fame or the Hollywood sign. Or the Californian version of the London Eye – the Ferris wheel at Santa Monica pier. And although there is much more to the city, these remain as spots worth checking out on any trip. If you dream of visiting these places or want to know more about LA attractions, the list below may help.

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• Holywood Walk of Fame

Taking a stroll on the most famous sidewalk in the world is a dream of many. Since the 1960s, the Walk of Fame has been gathering influential names in film, music, and television. More than 3km of pink and gold stars with over 2,500 names of artists decorate Hollywood Boulevard. When walking around the area, it is impossible to control the urge to search for the name of a favorite actor or actress. It often surprises first-time visitors that there is no demarcation of the area with the stars. You can find signs on sidewalks of public circulation. Another thing you can find is star look-alikes. This is a good opportunity to take a photo with Tom Cruise or Elvis.

• Griffith Observatory

 

At the top of Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory is one of the most visited tourist spots in California. It is also the most visited public observatory in the world. The tour is worth not only for the panoramic views to LA but also for the numerous attractions it offers. The building reopened in 2006 with double the capacity to receive visitors. Its architecture is already a show in itself, but it is inside the walls that the magic happens. Together with the planetarium, various exhibitions create spectacles on the beauty of outer space. In addition to the knowledge of astrology, the Griffith allows travelers to see the Hollywood sign from up close. 

• Santa Monica Pier

 

Since 1909, the pier at Santa Monica Beach welcomes visitors from all over the world. At first, it was just a wooden platform with nothing on it. But the structure has undergone improvements over the years and today is one of the most popular tourist spots in Los Angeles. The highlights go beyond the spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. One of the oldest and most sought-after activities is the classic carousel, which dates back to 1922. Also in the building, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium attracts children of all ages. One of the most iconic images of LA – the Ferris wheel –  rests at Pacific Park and remains a favorite among youngsters. For adults, great restaurants dot the vicinity under the iconic Californian atmosphere. 

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• Universal Studios

 

The LA version of Universal Studios differs greatly from the one in Florida. The park is small but welcoming and bears no resemblance to the grandeur of the Orlando complex. As an upside, the US Los Angeles extends its programs to all sorts of cinema lovers, both children, and adults. Situated within Universal’s actual movie studios, this is a unique opportunity to see a film set first-hand. Tours attract mainly families, but everyone can enjoy the curious anecdotes about life backstage. Toys are close to each other and it is easy to get around the park.

 

ESTA online application – Best LA Restaurants

Los Angeles is famous for fast food dishes like Pink’s chili hot-dog and Philippe’s French dip sandwich. Yet the city has much more than street food on offer and does not disappoint those looking for top-notch restaurants. If you seek fine-dining alternatives, celebrity chefs like Thomas Keller, Nobu Matsushita, and Wolfgang Puck will treat you to it. But even simpler places and names can surprise picky palates. Unless you come from a larger city in the UK, where pub food is not the only option, the culinary scene in California will impress you. We have selected five of LA’s best restaurants for holidaymakers to experience the city’s varied cuisine. 

ESTA favorite – Spago of Beverly Hills

Located in the heart of Beverly Hills along Canon Drive, Spago is the flagship restaurant of the Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group. It is a must for any L.A. visitor and if you want a good chance to see some stars at the other tables. There is a seasonal a la carte menu, or you can explore the best of the west with the chefs’ multi-course California Tasting Menu.
Reservations are a must!

 

Jon & Vinny’s (Medium Level)

 

Chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo are well-known figures in Los Angeles. They also run other famous restaurants like Animal, Son of a Gun and Trois Mec. Jon & Vinny’s in Fairfax is small and modern, popular for its cozy atmosphere. The location is very convenient, especially for those staying in Hollywood. The chefs manage to make the most of seemingly banal ingredients without exaggeration. Besides gourmet pizzas, they prepare an excellent meatballs marinara, with ricotta and garlic bread. They offer brunch as well as lunch and dinner, but it is worth booking in advance.

 

Cafe Gratitude (Medium Level)

 

This vegan, cafe-style restaurant embodies the vibe of California. With artisan products and locally sourced ingredients, it has become a go-to option for health food enthusiasts. There are several Gratitude cafes in LA, the main ones located in Venice and the Arts District. Gratitude in Beverly Hills features a Scandinavian decor with simplicity in its essence. And this trait reflects their dishes. The menu is full of smoothies, superfoods, vegan and natural foods. It is the ideal place for breakfast or a midday snack. 

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Bestia (Medium Level)

 

Do not try to go to Bestia without a reservation. As one of LA’s most coveted restaurants of the moment, it is best to book a table a week in advance. The space is large, made of brick walls and high ceilings. Cured salami is the house specialty. Try it on a pizza with ricotta cheese, brussels sprouts, and pepper oil. The place is owned by a couple and the cuisine portraits their creativity. Their well-balanced, home-made spaghetti with sea urchin and tomato sauce is also a good option. And Bestia’s pork stew with veal sausage will make you feel like you are in Italy. 

An ESTA favorite – Trois Mec (Top Level)

 

A highlight in American deluxe cuisine, Trois Mec is a true fine-dining experience. So much so that many even book two months in advance. Relatively inconspicuous, they kept the original facade of an old Italian restaurant. Run by French chef Ludo Lefebvre, the tasting menu incites all senses. Dishes often come in bigger portions to share instead of the usual per person order system. Many to eat with your hands. The music is loud, the lights are low, the atmosphere is festive. A full meal costs about $ 100, but it will be a memorable meal.

 

Providence (Top Level)

Inspired by coastal life, Providence is a high-end restaurant that serves seafood in its purest form. The menu features creative cuisine and a selection of over 400 wines. Chef Michael Cimarusti takes a global approach, bringing together the freshest ingredients from around the world. Highlights include Norway’s wild cod, Santa Barbara prawns Japan’s scallops, and Maine lobsters. The atmosphere is tranquil and invites customers to appreciate the food.

 

As an English-speaking destination with pleasant weather all year round, LA remains a favorite of British travelers. While young adults enjoy the cosmopolitan vibe of the city, families find a balance between amusement parks and high-quality restaurants. The cultural diversity of Los Angeles makes it a diverse holiday alternative. So whether you want to lounge at the beach or witness the life of celebrities, consider a trip to the City of Angels for your next holiday. With ESTA USA it is now significantly easier to obtain a travel permit than to obtain a standard US visa. Don’t forget, if you are traveling with children, they also require an ESTA permit. 

 

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