Name a little piece of San Diego history that's over 60 years old, and looking better than ever. If you're thinking of Jerry Sanders, think again (but good answer). We're referring to the gem of North Park, The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows in the center of legendary El Cajon Blvd.

Built in 1946 by former car dealer and developer Larry Imig, The Lafayette is one of San Diego's oldest and most historic functioning hotels in the city. Once graced with the likes of entertainment legends Bob Hope and Ava Gardner as reoccurring guests, it was "the spot" stars flocked to for a relaxing getaway from the Hollywood fervor. Today, The Lafayette embraces that era by remaining true to the undying concept of "R & R."

Luxury and pretentiousness? Well, you can always find that in L.A. At The Lafayette, they take more of the laid-back attitude San Diego is known for, and they offer what the stars have considered for years as a perfect getaway.

You want playfulness? Enter into the large welcoming foyer to see a spectacular display of colorful umbrellas, juxtaposed with marble floors of the century past. You want to relive Hollywood's Golden Age? Stroll through the halls and read quotes posted on doors from stars who may have stayed in the room itself. You need modern? The Lafayette celebrates its history, yet infuses the modern conveniences we have grown to accept at a first-rate hotel. Their recent three-million dollar renovation ensures an experience where traditional comforts seamlessly merge with contemporary tastes.

And you may be surprised to find what lies at the center of this hotel. A pool, of course! Spanning almost 50 meters long (just short of an Olympic-sized pool), The Lafayette pool basks in the San Diego sunshine, beckoning all visitors to shed their cares ─ and their street clothes ─ for an unparalleled, time-tested Southern California experience.

Swimming sure does build an appetite, and The Lafayette offers the comfort of delicious food and drinks conveniently to their guests at the on-site restaurant, Imig's Kitchen & Bar. Consistent with the philosophy of the hotel, Imig's grasps on to the idea of "unpretentious & honest" with its modern American cuisine in a casual and relaxed setting. How relaxed? You won't have to sift through pages of menu items with names of dishes you can't pronounce, bound in leather folders that are older than you are. Each menu is placed in a hang-folder reminiscent of a student record, adding to one of the many charming quirks found throughout the hotel.

With 113 rooms available, ranging from customary-styled rooms in the Manor, to two-story bungalows with a full kitchen and living room, The Lafayette provides options for business guests, families, honeymooners, and anyone and everyone who wants more than just a place to stay.

To assist with their updates and promotions, The Lafayette turned to Alternative Strategies' design skills to develop marketing pieces and in-house amenity cards. The lighthearted, creative style of the hotel seemed to match perfectly with that of the agency. Within a few short weeks, Alternative Strategies worked closely with the hotel to design various pieces conducive to their brand. Today, one of those designs can be seen in every Lafayette bathroom. As the hotel continues to expand as a tourist destination and local attraction, Alternative Strategies looks forward to growing its relationship with this San Diego staple on new, and imaginative projects. Vacation, staycation, or relaxation, The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows is a destination that's grounded in the history of good times, fashioned in the style of good humor, and most notably, rests on the idea that great service is timeless.