Encounter Restaurant, located in the heart of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), is now open after its closure in March 2007 due to renovations. Operator Delaware North Travel and Hospitality Services has refurbished the restaurant’s interior with new carpeting, repaired its iconic lava lamps and updated other fixtures. With 135-foot high parabolic arches and a futuristic design, the Theme Building has become one of the most recognizable buildings in the U.S. It was designed by architect Paul R. Williams in 1961 at a cost of $2.2 million and it was complemented by Encounter Restaurant in 1997. The restaurant offers “California Fresh” cuisine prepared under the direction of Chef Michel Audeon. Valet parking is conveniently available to accommodate diners and airport operated parking structures are located directly across the street. The restaurant is not within a screened security area of LAX, so travelers may keep their luggage at their table. Encounter Restaurant is open for lunch daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and dinner on Friday and Saturday from 4 to 9:30 p.m.
www.encounterlax.com
www.lawa.org/lax

Often flying under the radar of traditional hotels and resorts, LA’s hostels are friendly and surprisingly well-located. Even Paris Hilton couldn’t resist the youthful exuberance of the visitors who stay at LA hostels. According to media accounts, Paris met Alex Vaggo, a 22-year-old Swedish model, in Hollywood near the USA Hostel where he was staying. The hostel is located within walking distance of Hollywood & Highland Center and beds start from $27. The pair met in September 2007, but by October, the 26-year-old female socialite had moved on. Other LA hostels include the HI-Santa Monica, the Venice Beach Cotel and HI-Los Angeles, South Bay. HI-Santa Monica is located just two blocks from the beach, surrounded by some of the beach community’s trendiest cafés, restaurants, shops and pubs. Daily excursions to many LA attractions, including Universal Studios Hollywood, can be purchased and beds start at $26. The Venice Beach Cotel is located on the beach next to the colorful Ocean Front Walk and within walking distance of world-renowned Muscle Beach. It has ocean view rooms from $20. HI-Los Angeles, South Bay is located next to the landmark Korean Bell of Friendship in scenic Angel’s Gate Park in San Pedro. The hostel treats guests to sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and beds start at $22.
www.hihostels.com
www.hilosangeles.org
www.usahostels.com

In 2008, the Los Angeles Dodgers will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the team moving to Los Angeles. Formerly the Brooklyn Dodgers, the team moved from Brooklyn, New York to LA in 1958. Anniversary celebrations include an exhibition game against the Boston Red Sox on March 29, 2008 in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, where the Dodgers first played from 1958-1961; before the opening of Dodger Stadium. In addition, Baseball Hall of Fame great Joe Torre has been named the club’s new manager. Like the Dodgers, Torre hails from Brooklyn — and is a winner. The former Yankees manager was a nine-time All Star player, and ranks eighth in all-time victories among Major League managers. LA’s beloved baseball team has won five championships since coming to town. Games are played April - October and sellouts aren’t uncommon. Various group ticket incentives are available.

Obscure fact: Dodger Hall of Famer Duke Snyder recorded the first hit at the LA Coliseum in 1958 and did the same in 1962 during the opening game at Dodger Stadium.

www.dodgers.com