Paul Rubio -- Oyster Locals Reporter
Paul’s insatiable quest to discover and learn combined with his passion for documenting travel experiences has taken him to all corners of the world, 65 countries and counting. As an economist and environmental policy analyst by training, Paul once used his power of prose to secure donor funding for major poverty alleviation and sustainable development projects. On hiatus from the world of foreign aid, Paul has taken on his passion of travel writing full-time, contributing to Fodor’s guidebooks, The Advocate, Out magazine, outtraveler.com, and The Guide Mag, while penning his magnum opus, 300 Gay Friendly Destinations to See Before you Die and promoting his Florida travel book, The Out Traveler: South Florida.
- Places lived: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boston, New York City, Quito, Kuala Lumpur, Nairobi, London, Paris, Madrid, Tenerife, and San Jose (Costa Rica)
- Education: Master in Public Administration and International Development, Harvard University; Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Boston University; Bachelor of Science in Environmental Policy and Conservation Biology, Boston University
- Destination expert for: Miami and Orlando
- Always in my suitcase: A small flashlight, freezer size ziplock bags, my self-made book of world maps, and Arctic Chill Dentyne Ice.
My Favorite Hotels
1
Andaz West Hollywood
- Pearls: Rating: 4.0 Pearls
- Location: West Hollywood, Los Angeles
- Price: $290/night
It's no longer as hip or famous as its West Hollywood neighbors (the Chateau, Sunset Tower, and Mondrian), and the service can be spotty. But there's plenty to like about the new Andaz, which was once (in)famously known as the "Riot Hyatt": rotating art exhibits, a lovely rooftop pool, and sleek rooms with sweet views and free snacks and drinks.
2
The London West Hollywood
- Pearls: Rating: 4.5 Pearls
- Location: West Hollywood, Los Angeles
- Price: $330/night
Just off the Sunset Strip, the London offers the highest levels of luxury and service at reasonable prices. With 200 beautifully appointed, 750-square-foot rooms, a rooftop pool and fitness area with panoramic views, and a restaurant from star chef Gordon Ramsay, the hotel attracts a sophisticated set who expect service as great as the value.
3
Liberty Hotel
- Pearls: Rating: 4.0 Pearls
- Location: North End and Beacon Hill, Boston
- Price: $340/night
Occupying a former jail, the 298-room Liberty Hotel is truly unique, with a playful design that incorporates the incarceration theme in fun ways. The stunning lobby, comfortable rooms and quality on-site restaurants make this hotel a good choice -- but mediocre service and amenities keep it from being a great one.
