WHY YOU MUST GO TO LOS ANGELES AT LEAST ONCE IN YOUR LIFE

(Okay okay: want)

I lost my heart a few years ago and I think it’s still somewhere beating on the streets of America. California, New York, Chicago;   wherever I go, it feels good. A little bit like home even in a crazy way. So today it's time for the city of the film industry, roller skates, and the most beautiful palm trees. Are you coming along to L.A.? I knew it. These are the spots you seek out for the ultimate experience.

Lights, camera, action, Hollywood!

Compare it to Dam Square. Nice to wander around and take some photos, but not for too long. The main streets to see are Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard. And, even if you have that jet lag, don’t come too early, because most shops aren’t open yet and there are quite a few homeless people and street performers trying to sell you all sorts of things.

Walk of Fame

When you’re in Hollywood, you obviously have to take a look at The Walk of Fame. And yes, it’s crowded, mega touristy too, but it’s secretly also awesome to walk on the world-famous boulevard with the famous star tiles. And to take a photo with your favorite star, duh.

Griffith Park

Need a break from the hustle and bustle on Hollywood Boulevard? Head to the gigantic Griffith Park (Americans and parks is something like 1+1=2, you should know). Picnic on the grass, catch your breath, and then walk to the east side of the park to be treated to the most famous symbol of the city: the Hollywood Sign.

Beverly Hills

The most expensive cars, the biggest houses, and the greenest parks. Indulge in the luxury of Beverly Hills and then take a look at Rodeo Drive, the P.C. Hooftstraat of Los Angeles. Don’t forget the selfie at the Beverly Hills logo!

Santa Monica Beach

Another iconic spot you must visit. Even if it’s just to snap a picture at the giant Ferris wheel that’s even more famous than the one at Coachella. The carnival by the beach is amazing for that ultimate I’m-in-an-American-music-video feeling.

Venice Beach

From the Santa Monica pier, you can bike along the beach path (less than five minutes) towards Venice Beach, the beach where all the cool people gather. An experience in itself with all the surfers, runners, show-offs, and trendy locals on roller skates. The locals consider Venice Beach the most relaxed place in Los Angeles where the skate culture originated. You’ll also find the coolest street in all of America; Abbot Kinney Boulevard.

Visit a film studio

A must-do. Hello, you’re in THE CITY where American movies and TV shows are made, and a behind-the-scenes look is just as cool as it sounds. The most famous ones are Universal Studios, Warner Brothers Studio, Paramount Studios, and Sony Studios. You can visit all four.

The Grove

For the real shopping sessions. And to be amazed. A hairdresser where kids can bring their dolls, a ‘dog bakery’ where they sell cupcakes for your dog, but also the Farmers Market full of small cozy restaurants; The Grove has it all. God, I love America. 

How to move?

Just like in New York, the sights in Los Angeles are fairly spread out across the city. Prepare for worn-out soles when you get home. Or rent a car, although there’s a good chance you’ll get stuck on just about all the main roads. Or take my good old friend: the hop-on, hop-off bus.

Where to eat?

Gracias madre for the tastiest vegan Mexican food, and there’s a good chance you’ll run into B. or Jay. The courtyard is übrigens sehr Instagrammable. Are you spending a day at Venice Beach? Then head to Gjelina for the best Blueberry Pancakes and homemade pizza of your life.

Where to sleep?

Hotel Beverly Terrace is my favorite, an amazing boutique hotel in Beverly Hills, with a bed so nice, man oh man. They also have the cutest little breakfast bar ever by the way. Want more space for less money? Then I would check Airbnb, because I found some gems in the Hollywood Hills last time.
And, feeling a bit excited? Then I would say: book that ticket. Summer is super busy and expensive so I would skip that, but September and October are wonderful months in terms of temperature and tourists to visit L.A. Have fun my friends.