Since the discussion has included hotels... I'm going to B.A. at the end of August for 6 nights and trying to find a great hotel. I've been looking at the Algodon Mansion on LuxuryLink, but wonder if I need to spend that much to stay somewhere special (this is a holiday). I've read a lot about the number of boutique hotels that have opened recently but not knowing the city I'm confused. Anyone offer some advice?