LA, LA Land: A Survival Guide (Kinda)
So, you're headed to the City of Angels, huh? You're either brave, foolish, or both. But fear not, intrepid traveler! This guide will help you navigate the land of palm trees, plastic smiles, and overpriced avocado toast.
What To Do On Vacation In Los Angeles |
Hollywood: Where Dreams are Made (and Broken)
Let’s start with the obvious: Hollywood. Sure, you can gawk at the Walk of Fame like everyone else, but let's be real, you're more likely to see a wannabe actor dressed as a superhero than a real-life star. However, if you must, try to spot a celebrity’s handprint that doesn’t look like a melted ice cream cone.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
Pro tip: Don't bother trying to spot celebrity homes. You'll spend hours staring at ordinary-looking houses, only to realize you've been stalking a real estate agent.
Tip: The details are worth a second look.
Beach Life: Sun, Sand, and Surly Lifeguards
LA beaches are iconic, but don’t expect to find a secluded paradise. More like a packed sardine can with better weather. Venice Beach is a colorful chaos of street performers, bodybuilders, and people who think wearing neon spandex is acceptable attire. Santa Monica is more family-friendly, but don't forget your SPF. Trust me, you don't want to look like a cooked lobster while trying to impress the lifeguard.
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
Food: In-N-Out or Bust
Let's talk food. In-N-Out is a religion in LA, so you must try it. But don't limit yourself to burgers and fries. LA is a melting pot of flavors, from tacos to sushi. Just be prepared to pay an arm and a leg for avocado toast. And if you see a juice bar with a line out the door, run. It's probably just overpriced kale water.
QuickTip: Return to sections that felt unclear.
Hiking: Nature's Gym (With a View)
LA has some amazing hiking trails, but be warned: you’ll encounter more Lycra than you can handle. And don’t forget the essential LA hiking attire: sunglasses, a designer water bottle, and a dog (even if you don’t own one). The reward? Breathtaking views of the city and the satisfaction of pretending you’re an outdoor enthusiast.
Conclusion: Survive and Conquer
LA is a city of extremes: glitz and glamor, homeless and hopeless, traffic and tacos. But with the right attitude, you can have a blast. Just remember to pack your sunglasses, sunscreen, and sense of humor. And if all else fails, there's always Disneyland.
How-To Tips for LA
- How to survive LA traffic: Embrace the carpool lane, learn the art of patience, and consider investing in a good audiobook.
- How to spot a celebrity: Don't bother. They’re probably hiding in plain sight, disguised as normal people.
- How to find affordable housing: Good luck with that. Seriously, consider buying a camper van.
- How to avoid becoming a stereotype: Don't wear yoga pants unless you're actually doing yoga, and please, for the love of all that is holy, don't say "like" every other word.
- How to enjoy LA: Relax, soak up the sun, and remember, this is just a vacation. You can go back to your normal life eventually.