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Kai Oliver-Kurtin

Kai Oliver-Kurtin

San Diego & SoCal Correspondent

Kai Oliver-Kurtin is the San Diego & Southern California correspondent for Time Out.

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Articles (39)

The 15 best Airbnbs in Malibu for an incredible coastal escape

The 15 best Airbnbs in Malibu for an incredible coastal escape

Nestled between the soothing ocean and lush canyons, Malibu's natural beauty often leaves travelers wondering why they'd consider any other destination. Whether you're planning a hiking escapade through the Santa Monica Mountains or a laid-back retreat centered around Malibu Pier, the city caters to all kinds of adventurers. And, while the area boasts some of LA's best beaches, Malibu manages to maintain a laid-back ambiance with fewer hotels than its bustling neighbors. Celebrities who call this place home would likely nod in agreement; it's a sanctuary for those who cherish seclusion and tranquility.  However, given its allure as an A-list destination, Malibu boasts some of LA's priciest real estate. That's where the city’s Airbnb rentals come to the rescue. For those willing to invest a little extra, these accommodations offer a chance to immerse in Malibu's charm in a beachfront paradise or a tucked-away canyon retreat – even if it's just for one unforgettable night. Updated April 2024: To offer you the best of Malibu, we regularly update our curated lists so you get first dibs on the most on trend and unique rentals in this neck of the woods. We've really left no stone unturned with this stunning home in Broad Beach with ocean views, or this dreamy mountainside home moments away from the beach.  RECOMMENDED:🇺🇸 The best things to do in Malibu☀️ How to spend a perfect day in Malibu🏠 The best hotels in Malibu🍔 The best Malibu restaurants and bars🏖️ The best beaches in

The 20 best hotels in Palm Springs

The 20 best hotels in Palm Springs

Palm Springs hotels have gone from strength to strength in the last decade or so. You can now find something to suit any style, from cozy rustic spots to swanky resort-sized stays to quiet boutique properties. Want to book an opulent five-star villa kitted out with every possible amenity plus a dope restaurant? Well, Palm Springs has plenty of that, too. One thing that hasn’t changed is the entrancing “desert modernism” aesthetic and discreet vibe; you’re just as likely to catch a crew of European retirees scouting the famous Architecture and Design Center as a Hollywood A-lister lounging by the pool. And speaking of pools, every hotel on our list has one—a Palm Springs hotel with no pool is like a dirty martini without an olive, after all. Spending time poolside is practically a required thing to do in Palm Springs for travelers in this spirited town. Whether you’re making the trip to Coachella or just looking for a fun getaway, take a scroll through the options below and make sure you pack shorts and sunscreen—it’s gonna be a scorcher. Regardless of when you decide to visit, read on for our recommendations of the best Palm Springs hotels to check out. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to California RECOMMENDED: The best Palm Springs AirbnbsRECOMMENDED: The most unique Airbnbs in the U.S. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we’ve based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel

The 10 best hotels in Santa Barbara walking distance to the beach

The 10 best hotels in Santa Barbara walking distance to the beach

Choosing the best Santa Barbara hotel isn't the easiest thing. After all, there are so many options, each with a different vibe and aesthetic. Do you want to hang by the beach or opt for a hidden gem nestled up in the hills? Sleep beside the nightlife or doze without a party in sight? Is a pool non-negotiable? And what about entertainment for the kids? Surely you want to be right by the city’s best attractions (don't miss Old Mission Santa Barbara!), tastiest restaurants, and top wineries? See, there's a lot to consider. This central coast hot spot attracts tourists year-round, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s all year long, and an easily accessible location just 90 miles north of Los Angeles. Naturally, that means there's a hotel to cater for all preferences and budgets, but whatever yours are, you can bet we've got a spot for you. We’ve scrolled through Santa Barbara's many hotels and whittled them down to the cream of the crop. All you have to do is pick the right place for your perfect stay. Updated for February 2024: To ensure you're in the know about the coolest properties in Santa Babara, we regularly update this list, and this time we've added a couple of newbies both, no more than a five-minute walk from room to sandy shores, and one offering an outdoor pool and spa. Bikini mode: on. 🎭 The best things to do in Santa Barbara🛏 The best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on

The 8 best hotels on Catalina Island, for a weekend of paradise

The 8 best hotels on Catalina Island, for a weekend of paradise

If you're after an idyllic SoCal vacation destination, look no further than Santa Catalina Island. With its vibrant wildlife, charming coastal towns, and amazing beaches, it's no wonder the Island is highly sought after. And a trip away to the island has to include a stay in one of the best hotels, ranging from stunning beachside luxury to hilltop charm. Located just 22 miles off the California coast, Catalina is easily accessible by ferry or helicopter. Most opt to take the Catalina Express ferry round-trip (out of Long Beach, San Pedro, or Dana Point), which takes about an hour and offers up to 30 departures daily to Avalon and Two Harbors. Since there's a fair amount of schlepping involved with traveling to (and around) Catalina, you'd be well-advised to pack light and bring some snacks.  Once in Catalina, you can choose between being nestled in the hills or overlooking the sand along one of the best beaches in California. Here, we've outlined the Catalina hotels that best encompass this little island's vibrancy and warmth. February 2024 update: We've added a new incredible hotel to this list: the Edgewater. Enjoy! RECOMMENDED: The best things to do on Catalina IslandRECOMMENDED: The best bars and restaurants on Catalina IslandRECOMMENDED: Everything you need to know about the Catalina Island ferry Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes a

The 8 best flower delivery services in San Diego

The 8 best flower delivery services in San Diego

The florist scene in San Diego is better than ever. Budding new independent retailers are sprouting up (see what we did there?) all over the county, and if you are in a hurry, many florists offer same-day delivery. So if you're searching for gorgeous petals to surprise your loved one with, you're in luck. There is prompt delivery, so you'll never have to wake up on the day and panic-jog to a nearby gas station and pick up some wilted Roses that look sweatier than you. Want to select some blooms that are native to the area? Try California Poppies, Hummingbird Trumpets, Lewisias, Pacific Coast Irises, Coast Indian Paintbrush, Common Thrift, or Yarrows. Chances are they won't have to travel far to reach their recipient, meaning they will stay fresh longer. We’ve picked a bunch of our favorite florists, all of whom deliver throughout the San Diego region. How do we determine the cream of the crop? Our staff picks combine the top, most recent reviews with some of our personal favourites to make sure you get the best deal on the web. Throughout this article, you may notice some affiliate links – these have no influence on our editorial content – we pinky swear. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 9 best hotels in Ojai for a relaxing Californian getaway

The 9 best hotels in Ojai for a relaxing Californian getaway

It’s no secret that Californians have been flocking to the spiritual town of Ojai for many years. Nestled in the Ventura County valleys, among the Topatopa Mountains, this place has a tranquil vibe that can’t be matched anywhere else. You’ll only need to drive a couple of hours out of Los Angeles before finding the slow-paced, relaxing getaway. While in town, they enjoy top-notch restaurants and find plenty of chill things to do. Many hotels offer free bike rentals to get around town, and some will even give guests vouchers for drinks in town. Trying to find the best hotels in Ojai can be a tricky task. But there are several options, all differing in style. Whether you’re looking to be close to the action of downtown, are seeking hilltop views, or just want a pool to splash around in, these Ojai hotels encompass the town’s unique hospitality scene. Check out our picks in this article.  RECOMMENDED:🍽️ Check out the best restaurants in Ojai⛰️ Discover things to do in Ojai  Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Find the best live TV show tickets in Los Angeles for free

Find the best live TV show tickets in Los Angeles for free

Looking to catch the live taping of your favorite talk show or competition? Lucky for you, there’s a pretty good chance it’s filmed in Los Angeles, and if there’s a live studio audience you can bet that there’s a way to get free tickets for a filming. We’ve rounded up TV shows to watch live in studios from Hollywood to Culver City, along with tips for procuring free taping tickets. (We’ve also got you covered on the best hotels in Los Angeles if you’re visiting from out of town.) Some shows permit day-of standby lists for any last-minute planners, but it’s always best to try and reserve tickets in advance. Tickets are typically non-transferrable, so make sure to bring your ID. Many shows ask for audience participation in the form of cheering and clapping, so don’t be surprised if your involvement is bigger than that of a seat filler. Depending on the series, audience members may be able to bring cell phones into the studio, but some will direct you to leave your devices behind. On the flip side, for some programs you may have an opportunity to interact with the host—so come camera-ready. Snag a seat on the set of Jimmy Kimmel or American Idol with our guide to getting TV show tickets in L.A. Be sure to check the ticket websites for updates on hiatus schedules and more. RECOMMENDED: Los Angeles attractions for tourists and natives alike 

The 10 best treehouse Airbnbs near L.A. for a one-of-a-kind vacation

The 10 best treehouse Airbnbs near L.A. for a one-of-a-kind vacation

Feeling the need for a break from the norm? Up for some adventurous glamping? Okay, okay, we’re in California – the ‘elements’ here are just sunshine and heat. But who says you can't shake things up a bit?  Step out of the mundane hotel scene and into an Instagram-worthy, wood-paneled treehouse courtesy of Airbnb. Seriously, it's time to indulge your inner child and rediscover nature's charm. Maybe even throw some mud on your cheeks and swing from a tire – it's good for the soul. Sure, the beach has its charm, with warm sand and the soothing sound of waves. But how about a lungful of fresh forest air? If your dream is to live among the trees, our list of top Airbnb treehouses (a road trip away from L.A.) will make your pals green with envy. Get ready for an adventure worth boasting about- happy exploring! RECOMMENDED: 🇺🇸 The most unique Airbnbs in the U.S.🏠 Check out the best Airbnbs in L.A.🪵 Take a look at the coziest Airbnb cabins in the U.S.🌲 Discover the best secluded Airbnbs in the U.S. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The 5 best hotels in Joshua Tree

The 5 best hotels in Joshua Tree

There are a few things to know right off the bat about Joshua Tree hotels—there aren't many luxury options. If you're looking for a swanky stay, you may have to make the schlep from Palm Springs or Desert Hot Springs. Most folks staying here are either camping in Joshua Tree National Park or at least spending most of their time there, so proximity to the area's trails and other outdoor activities is priority number one.  Spring and fall are typically the best times of year to visit, since average temperatures during the summer hover around 100 degrees. The park is open year-round, attracting many during spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. But don't worry, there are always plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the namesake trees.  In Joshua Tree, you can expect gorgeous scenery, hiking, camping and an eclectic arts scene—so you won't want for things to do either. You don't need to stay at a sub-par chain motel either, the local area has a handful of eclectic lodging options with way more charm than your average Best Western. We should know, we've rounded up the spots that are most unique, affordable, fun and close to the park. RECOMMENDED: The most beautiful National Parks in California Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate l

The best things to do in Ojai

The best things to do in Ojai

There’s lots of reasons to visit Ojai. And we mean lots. Let’s start with the scenery, shall we? East of Santa Barbara and northwest of Los Angeles, this city is full of beautiful hiking trails, camping spots and more, as well as some incredible old buildings.  But between your stints of taking in the sights, there’s plenty more to see and do in Ojai, from its fantastic food and drink scene to a ton of local businesses. Browse shops, sample local wines and soak up good old Californian hippy vibes here with our list of the best things to do in Ojai. RECOMMENDED:🏨 The best hotels in Ojai🍽️ The best restaurants in Ojai🏘️ The best small towns to visit in California This guide is by Kai Oliver-Kurtin, Time Out’s Southern California correspondent. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

The best things to do in San Diego right this minute

The best things to do in San Diego right this minute

San Diego is much more than Los Angeles' super chill cousin to the south. This multicultural city has an international border and some of the world's best beaches. There's also incredible culture and world-class museums, amusement parks, a strong military footprint, authentic Mexican food, and more than 150 craft breweries. You'll love the laid-back surfer vibe here. San Diego's year-round temperate climate is a big draw for visitors since they can usually count on the weather being an optimal 72 degrees and sunny. There are major events like San Diego Comic-Con, San Diego Beer Week, and several marathons and triathlons that draw folks to America's Finest City. While here, don't miss attractions like Balboa Park, the world-renowned zoo, farmers markets, and water activities like whale watching, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. San Diego's 70 miles of coastline are made up of charming beach towns with diverse offerings. But one thing is consistent throughout the county: the beautiful landscape.  Here we've compiled the very best things to do in San Diego right now. If you're here with the family, there are also plenty of things to do with kids.  RECOMMENDED:🍽️ The best restaurants in San Diego🏨 The best San Diego hotels🍹 The best bars in San Diego🏘️ The best Airbnbs in San Diego

The best restaurants in San Diego right now

The best restaurants in San Diego right now

Visitors usually come to San Diego expecting top-notch Mexican food, the best fish tacos they've ever tasted, and craft breweries & coffee shops on every corner. And while those things are all accurate reflections of San Diego's dining scene, the city offers so much more. In recent years (especially during the pandemic) a new wave of chefs with James Beard nominations and Michelin Star restaurant experience made their way to San Diego for a change of pace. Of course, locals are thrilled to have these chefs here and love the elevation of San Diego's culinary scene, but they remain faithful to the hole-in-the-wall taco stands, no-frills mom-and-pop shops, and underrated strip mall eateries they've been visiting for years. But it's not all super casual eats. There are also plenty of fine dining options with ocean views, upscale tasting menus, suggested wine pairings, and truly unique experiences. San Diego no longer lives in the shadow of Los Angeles' dining landscape.Dinner reservations are typically recommended in the more popular areas like Little Italy and La Jolla. You can eat outside here most of the year thanks to the perfect weather, so San Diegans have become to expect patio seating, rooftop dining, and indoor-outdoor dining rooms. If you're headed to this coastal utopia, be sure to bring a big appetite and follow our list of the best restaurants in San Diego. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in San Diego

Listings and reviews (3)

Roly China Fusion

Roly China Fusion

The husband-and-husband team, chef Chad Gardner and artist Roly Paz, have doubled-down in Palm Springs. While their other restaurant, 533 Viet Fusion, stuffs lobster claw and local dates into Vietnamese spring rolls, this Asian fusion spot fills a major hole in Palm Springs dining: dumplings. Roly China Fusion is a modern space serving up braised short rib fried rice, lobster dumplings in truffle butter sauce, dan dan noodles, pork pot stickers, plus other house-made dim sum delights. But this isn’t strictly a dim sum spot, and don’t expect pushcarts; it’s the type of restaurant that adds marinated flank steak to its pad see ew and lobster with kimchi to its fried rice. This is also a great place for takeout on the nights you feel like staying in. 

The Pink Cabana

The Pink Cabana

A quick 30-minute drive from downtown Palm Springs, The Pink Cabana draws in diners from across the Coachella Valley. Located in the resort town of Indian Wells, The Pink Cabana is situated within Sands Hotel & Spa near the hotel's charming pool. Inspired by the tennis and racquet clubs popular throughout Palm Springs in the 50s and 60s, the space was artfully designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard with large doses of pinks, greens, and brass. The menu leans Mediterranean with a Moroccan influence, featuring housemade yogurt naan, harissa chicken, lamb shank tagine, and a must-try mezze plate. Fancy a drink? The cocktail and wine lists shouldn't be overlooked. You'll find a wide wine selection from across the Mediterranean region alongside refreshing cocktails that focus on ingredients from the Great Spice Route (order the pink lemonade with vodka, a drink made with Herbes de Provence, Lillet Rose, and pink sea salt). End the meal with a Turkish coffee or a pink hot cocoa bomb for dessert (it will literally melt in your mouth). Thanks to its girly-chic vibe, the restaurant is a magnet for girls' nights out, drawing in large crowds in celebratory moods (take note: parties of eight or more people are required to order from a prix fixe menu). Throw on your retro shades and a silk scarf to match the setting, and don’t forget to make an advance reservation — this place is pretty and popular, so it’s best to plan ahead.

Las Cuatro Milpas

Las Cuatro Milpas

With a mere 20 miles between San Diego and the Mexico border, it should come as no surprise that you can find a proliferation of authentic Mexican food throughout the city. But Las Cuatro Milpas is perhaps the most well-known institution in the area.  A third-generation Mexican restaurant, Las Cuatro Milpas has been serving breakfast and lunch in San Diego's Barrio Logan neighborhood since 1933. It's known for classic dishes your abuela might make – think rolled tacos, burritos, tamals, house-made tortillas and fresh salsa. They also serve menudo, a traditional Mexican soup that's famous for being able to cure hangovers, on Saturdays. Diners line up early to order from the lunchroom-style counter. Expect a long line during lunchtime on weekdays – when you'll notice an influx of local government and city officials who work nearby in downtown's business district – and favorite dishes are known to sell out before closing time.  The dining room has no-frills picnic tables that fill up fast. Be sure to bring cash, since credit cards are not accepted at this mom-and-pop shop where prices are surprisingly low. You'll never go wrong with the rolled tacos, and shouldn't hesitate to purchase packages of tortillas to go. 

News (2)

コロナ禍の働き過ぎを解消、アメリカで週32時間労働制を導入か

コロナ禍の働き過ぎを解消、アメリカで週32時間労働制を導入か

仕事で疲れ切っている? パンデミックの間、自宅で仕事をしていると、仕事の時間が「長くなる一方」だと感じたに違いない。アメリカでは多くの人がそうだったようで、この1年半で燃え尽き症候群や退職者の数が過去最高を記録した。 いわゆる「Zoom疲れ」と呼ばれる問題が浮上し、変な時間に上司とSlackで長々とやりとりすることも増加。さらには、パンデミックにより子どもの面倒を見てくれる場所が減ったことで、手ごろな料金かつ信頼性が高い子どもの預け先を、新たに見つけるのに苦労した人も多いようだ。働くアメリカ人の多くが、こうした休める時間が減った「新しい生活」に、うんざりしているというのも納得といえる。 そんな中、その状況が改善されるかもしれないというニュースが入ってきた。 南カリフォルニアのリバーサイド選出の民主党下院議員、マーク・タカノが、ほとんどのアメリカ人の週の労働時間を短縮し、今の40時間から32時間へ変更する新しい法案を提案したのだ。「The Thirty-Two Hour Workweek Act」と呼ばれるこの法案は、週に32時間以上働いた場合には、公正労働基準法の下で、雇い主が残業代を払う必要があると定めることを求めるもの。 タカノは法案の提出に際し、週の労働時間が短くなれば、より多くの人がより良い賃金で労働市場に参加できるようになるとの考えを示している。さらに、この法案が可決されれば、ほとんどの労働者の給料が上がることが予想されるという。ただしこの法案は、独立した契約者やフリーランサーなど、特定の働き手には適用されないようだ。 多くのアメリカ人が嘆いている週40時間労働は、ほぼ1世紀前から存在。フォード社のヘンリー・フォードが1926年に、週5日1日8時間の労働時間制を導入したことがきっかけで、ほかの大企業も追随するようになった。 いくつかのレポートで、アメリカ人が世界のどの国よりも労働時間が長く、同時に休暇を取る日数も少ないということを明らかになっている。また、パンデミック時には、アメリカ人は毎日追加で3時間以上働いたという報告もある。 この法案が上院に提出され、法律として成立するかどうかはまだ分からないが、近い将来、アメリカ人が仕事から離れられる時間が少しだけ増えるかもしれない。 原文はこちら 関連記事 『東京、飲みながら仕事できるクラフトビール店5選』 『猫と仕事ができるスペース、サンチャコが会員を募集中』 『旅気分で働けるリモートワークフレンドリーな宿4選』 『求められるリモートワークとコミュニティービルディングが共存する場』 『ワークスペースとしても利用可能、浅草寺近くで屋内キャンプ』 東京の最新情報をタイムアウト東京のメールマガジンでチェックしよう。登録はこちら

A new bill wants to shorten the American workweek to 32 hours

A new bill wants to shorten the American workweek to 32 hours

Feeling burned out at work? You’re not alone.  For those who have been working from home during the pandemic (also referred to as 'living at work'), the workdays have seemed to only get longer in the last 18 months. And employees around the country are feeling it – burnouts and mass resignations are at an all-time high. Throw in additional challenges, like affordable and reliable childcare and what's come to be known as 'Zoom fatigue,' and Americans are pretty much fed up with this new life featuring fewer breaks and more time spent Slacking with your boss at odd hours.  The good news: relief may be on its way.  Southern California Congressman Mark Takano (Dem.) from Riverside, California has proposed a new bill that would shorten the workweek for most Americans, shifting it from the standard 40-hours to 32 hours. The legislation is referred to as The Thirty-Two Hour WorkWeek Act, and would force overtime pay to kick in after 32 hours of work per week under the federal Fair Labor Practices Act.  Takano says a shorter work week will allow more people to participate in the labor market at better wages. It’s expected that most workers would see an increase in pay if the legislation is passed. Though the bill wouldn’t apply to certain employees such as independent contractors and freelancers.  The 40-hour workweek much-bemoaned by most Americans has been around for nearly a century. Good ol' Henry Ford of the Ford Motor Company is largely credited with instituting an eight-hour-d