5 Oscar-inspired stays worthy of an Academy Award

Hollywood is preparing for the most star-studded night of the year: the Oscars, which hit the red carpet on 26 February. Major contenders for the coveted golden statue include indie film Manchester by the Sea, musical La La Land and World War II epic Hacksaw Ridge, to name a few. To toast the film industry’s most star-spangled event, we’re presenting five Oscar-inspired stays worthy of an Academy Award themselves.

Manchester by the Sea – Massachusetts, USA

The critically acclaimed Manchester by the Sea, starring Casey Affleck and Michelle Williams, wowed audiences during its Sundance Film Festival premiere. It was followed by rave reviews, while Affleck and Williams are being tipped for Best Actor and Best Actress. The powerful story sees Affleck’s character return home to care for his nephew, following his brother’s death. The film is set in the coastal towns of Gloucester, Rockport and Beverly.

Beauport Hotel Gloucester offers a piece of quintessential New England scenery, set in the North Shore region of Massachusetts. Located right on Gloucester’s seafront, it features a seasonal outdoor pool, a restaurant and sun terrace, where you can soak up gorgeous bay views. Rent a car to make the most of your trip and explore more seaside spots, while Boston and Cambridge are under 50 kilometres away.

---

La La Land – Los Angeles, USA

One of 2017’s most raved-about films, La La Land stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone. It’s firmly in the running for Oscars glory after walking away with eight Critics’ Choice Awards and seven Golden Globe nominations. The film oozes retro vibes and pays homage to 1940s Hollywood musicals, recounting the love story of a jazz pianist and an aspiring actress as they chase their dreams.

For a taste of Hollywood glamour, treat yourself to a stay at The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills, celebrated for its world-class facilities and service. The hotel is just steps from Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive’s high-end shopping, with Sunset Strip a stone’s throw away. Lounge by the rooftop pool, or hide away in a cabana, before sampling some delicious California cuisine in the Boxwood Restaurant, loved by Booking.com guests.

---

Lion – Kolkata, India

Lion tells the captivating – and true – story of five-year-old Saraoo, who gets separated from his mother in India, before being fostered by an Australian couple. Years later, Saraoo uses Google Earth to track down his family before making a return to his homeland. Starring Dev Patel and Nicole Kidman, the movie is set in Kolkata, as well as various locations around Australia, including Hobart, Tasmania and Melbourne.

The sumptuous surrounds of Oberoi Grand Kolkata offer an oasis in the middle of Kolkata’s bustling shopping district. Sights including Maidan Park, the Victoria Memorial and Indian museum are within a short walk. Beyond the lawns and palm trees, you’ll find an outdoor pool, gym and spa, while elegant rooms are finely furnished and well equipped. Sample lip-smacking Bengali cuisine, as you savour views of the nearby market and garden.

---

Hacksaw Ridge – Sydney, Australia

Directed by Mel Gibson, this epic biographical feature has been on the receiving end of much Oscar-themed praise, landing a Golden Globe Best Director nomination, and nine Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts Awards. It tells the true story of conscientious objector, Desmond Doss (played by Andrew Garfield), who went on to win the Medal of Honor. The Sydney town of Richmond was transformed to recapture the World War II era.

Just three minutes’ walk from Bondi’s famous sands, the QT Bondi aparthotel features apartments with funky décor, all within easy reach of restaurants, cafés and shops. Don’t miss out on the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk and make the most of your picturesque beachside escape. An hour’s drive inland, Richmond is perched on the edge of Blue Mountains National Park, so combine an outdoor escape with a visit to the movie’s filming location.

---

Moonlight – Miami, USA

Taking its place in the Oscars race, Moonlight tells the story of Chiron, a young African-American man, as he struggles with his masculinity, sexuality and finding his place in a tough Miami neighbourhood. It’s already been awarded Best Film from the Los Angeles Film Critics Association and received a nomination at the Golden Globes – so expect to see it in the shortlist for Best Picture or Best Director.

If you’re going to go to Miami, you have to do it in style – stay at the Art Deco Four Seasons Hotel Miami, so you can easily walk to the beach and explore the area. Located opposite Biscayne Bay, guests can sprawl in a spa, cool off in one of two outdoor pools, or chill in a cabana. You’ll find boutiques, restaurants and nightlife all within easy reach.