If you’re after a serene, inviting home base in LA that’s tucked away from the frenetic atmosphere of some of the more central neighbourhoods, The Big Dipper is a great bet. With a garden full of citrus trees and views all the way to the Hollywood sign, you’d be forgiven for wanting to spend long, lazy afternoons at home – but you’re also in a convenient spot for exploring the city, with trendy Silver Lake a ten-minute drive away, and the museums and restaurants of Downtown LA just slightly further south. The home’s well-considered indoor-outdoor setup will set you up for a relaxed, typically Californian stay. Home truths: *The home is the guest house in the garden of another home, but it has a separate entrance *As the location isn’t super central, it’s easiest to explore LA from here with a car