SHAKIRA in concert and an inexpensive hotel chain in Southern Cali by Mary

I have loved Shakira since I was first introduced to her by one of my best friends from college, Lucia Marin.  Her first album, "Pies Descalzos," was our group of friends' soundtrack in college.  On a summer visit to see Lucia in her native Nicaragua (which became an annual affair), we actually got to see Shakira on her first "tour"-- she has come a long way from the rickety stage in a grassy field in Managua.  She sold out the Staples Center last weekend and I was lucky enough to see her at the Honda Center in Anaheim on Monday night.  She now is blond, tiny, and commands the entire arena with her sexy gyrations, hauntingly beautiful voice and passion for entertaining.  Some of the highlights were "La Tortura," "Underneath Your Clothes," and of course the encore finale of "Hips Don't Lie."

As Anaheim is about an hour and a half from LA, we decided to spend the night down South instead of battling traffic late at night and being worried about drinking and driving.  Turns out there is an Ayres Hotel literally across the street from the Honda Center.  It is a chain, yes, and it is not an exquisite hotel-- it is basically a Marriott or Hilton style hotel that is trying harder and a bit dressed up.  They have complimentary cookies in the afternoon, a wine and cheese hour in the evenings and a buffet breakfast in the morning-- all included in the inexpensive room rate.

Parking is also included, which is great considering the event parking was $35-$50/car.  Our room was huge with a wet bar, several seating areas and a most comfortable bed.  The staff couldn't have been nicer and the best part was walking right across the street to the show and back.

It is not fancy, but it's a great option for staying overnight after a late concert or game.