California Creators: Pride and Pinot - an LA and Wine Country adventure

 

Virgin Atlantic and Visit California recently hosted Yaya and Lloyd from @HandLuggageOnly on an epic trip to discover all the ways to play in California.

Read on to see how you can replicate their experience for yourself. Don’t forget to check out their channels to see videos of their time in the Golden State!

Day 1  •  Downtown LA

Arrive in style

Start your journey in A-list style by flying Virgin Upper Class from London to LA. The fun starts at the airport in the Virgin Clubhouse - don’t miss the picnic boxes - before relaxing in your lie-flat bed. Time for some bubbles and films…

After you touchdown at LAX, head to The Downtown Proper Hotel, your stylish home for the next few days. 

Beat the jet lag with a bit of culture and cuisine - immerse yourself in contemporary art at The Broad before an early dinner at Agua Viva. This chic rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views and an exquisite dining experience high above downtown LA. What a way to finish your first day!

Day 2  •  Downtown LA and Beverly Hills

Time for LA's icons

Begin your day with a hike to the iconic Hollywood Sign for some fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to celebrity spot. Then, treat yourself to a luxurious lunch at The Hideaway in Beverly Hills. This Mexican steakhouse boasts vintage décor, romantic vibes, and unique features like “Push for tequila” buttons at booth seating. Playful and stylish!

Indulge in a bit of art and architecture at the incredible The Getty Center - think beautiful city skyline views, wide open gardens and some of the world’s finest art. 

Spend your evening dining at Night + Market Song, known for its delicious Thai street food, kitsch neon signs and enviable playlist. As the sun sets, experience the magic of a Swan Boat Night Ride at Echo Park Lake, where the illuminated boats add a touch of sparkle to the LA skyline.

Day 3  •  Downtown LA

Live like a local at Pride

Start today’s adventure with some free time to explore the vibrant downtown area. We suggest checking out the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) with its free admission, wandering through the bustling Los Angeles Flower Market, and marvelling at the stunning Walt Disney Concert Hall, which was one of the itinerary highlights. Remember to check out the rooftop Blue Ribbon Garden for some incredible views.

All that walking will have you hungry, so check out Dahlia for a luxurious afternoon tea. This spot boasts stunning interiors inspired by Mexican modernism and Moroccan influences.

Now it’s time for Pride warm-up! Join the festivities at LA Pride in the Park with VIP access. This vibrant event is more than just a music festival— established in 1970, it's a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community with over 20 acres of activities, giveaways, and world class entertainment and musicians.

Head back to your hotel for a nightcap at Cara Cara rooftop.

Day 4  •  Downtown LA

Pride Parade!

Get ready for the LA Pride Parade, one of the biggest and most vibrant parade’s in the world! Find a prime viewing spot along Hollywood Blvd or Highland Ave to enjoy the colourful floats, dancers, and performers.

After the parade, continue the celebration at the LA Pride Block Party, where the streets transform and come alive with food, drinks, DJs, live drag queen performances, and more. For lunch, enjoy some street food from the Block Party vendors.

Before dinner, unwind with rooftop drinks at Desert 5 Spot, a new bar inspired by vintage Palm Springs and Pioneertown. End your day with a culinary adventure at KA’TEEN, where Chef Wes Avila serves up dishes inspired by the Yucatan Peninsula.

Day 5  •  Temecula

Time for some relaxation

Now it’s time to slow the pace down with two days in Temecula, California’s most southern wine region. Enjoy the scenic drive from LA and check into The New Inn, a luxurious adult-only hotel in the heart of wine country.

Stroll around Temecula Old Town before dinner at Two Travelers Wine Bar + Merchant, where Southern California wines and delicious dishes await.

Day 6  •  Temecula

Wine, wine and more wine...

Rise early for an unforgettable hot air balloon ride with A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure, where you’ll enjoy 360 views of Temecula's wine country from above. 

For lunch, visit Avensole Winery, where tradition meets artistry in their exceptional wines. 

As this is wine country, it’s time to leave the car behind and embark on a unique Sidecar Tours Inc. adventure through Temecula Valley. With their tandem sidecars, you can get up close to the vines and learn about the wineries and wine making process with a knowledgeable local.

Conclude your day with dinner at Bolera Restaurante before returning to The New Inn.