The story behind the gem that is Winslow’s La Posada

So excited to read Sara Lessley’s weekend escape to Winslow, Ariz. (“Take It Easy; Enjoy the Retro Ambience,” March 4). My husband and I stayed at the La Posada Hotel in Winslow for two nights in spring 2016. It was recommended by a friend as a “must-see”; it is a hidden gem and not to be missed.

Its background is fascinating: It was originally built by the Santa Fe railroad in 1930 to accommodate the rich and famous as they traveled by train to and from Chicago. Sadly, it closed in 1957, when train travel had become second choice over air travel.

Fortunately, La Posada was saved from the wrecking ball in 1994, when it was purchased and brought back to life by architect Allan Affeldt and his artist-wife, Tina Mion. Mion’s contemporary artwork is skillfully displayed throughout the hotel, alongside an extensive collection of Native American art, weavings and artifacts. The effect is a fascinating and thought-provoking juxtaposition of different peoples, cultures and eras of the Southwest.

Affeldt and Mion have succeeded in creating an inviting and captivating ambience at La Posada. Whether you choose to wander the charming gardens outside the hotel or sip wine inside the cozy Martini Lounge while listening to old recordings of Frank Sinatra, La Posada will not disappoint.

Chris Ishida-Matsuda

Hawthorne

Midair mayhem

Thank you to “Fly Guy” Elliott Hester for his Feb. 4 article on in-flight sexual harassment (“When Harassment or Assault Happens Midair”). It was both informative and eye-opening.

What I was most impressed with were his concluding comments: “It’s in my best interest as a representative of the airline to know how to deal with sexual misconduct and to address it. It’s also in my best interest as a human being.”

I couldn’t agree more. It is in the best interest of all of us that when we see something, we say something. That can make our society only healthier and safer.

A. Downhower

Arcadia

More than just Mardi Gras

Great to read about New Orleans from an insider’s viewpoint (“Heart of NOLA,” by Millie Ball, Feb. 11, ). May I suggest a few tips from an outsider?

I am amazed how few people from L.A. have visited the 300-year-old city. To those who seem to think the best time to go is during Mardi Gras, I gently discourage them: It is a bit intense for first-timers, and prices are significantly higher.

Bourbon Street is colorful, great for people-watching, and cheap booze is readily available; plus, it’s legal to walk down the street with it as well. My suggestion: Pace yourself. It is not unusual to see seriously inebriated tourists stumbling about, even as early as sundown.

The Hurricane is a memorable local libation, delicious, sweet and tasty, but one is enough. Two? You may have to call it an early night.

The famous restaurants in the French Quarter are not the only choices. Plus, their prices are breathtaking. Also, I don’t travel with a tie and coat, which is recommended. I just ask a trusted local bartender for dining suggestions and am richly rewarded. If I see tablecloths and candles, I go elsewhere.

Café Du Monde is slammed in the morning. That’s why I head there after dinner for an inexpensive cup of hearty chicory coffee. I have the place to myself, mostly.

Most important, keep in mind that there is more to the French Quarter than Bourbon Street. It is safe, exquisitely embellished, charming and great for night owls like me. Unique among cities.

Kyle Kimbrell

Playa del Rey

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