Wherever you happen to be studying in the US, a trip to Los Angeles is something you have to do if you get the chance.
There's more to Los Angeles than meets the eye and you'll be surprised to find out how much there is to see beyond the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the countless mansions owned by celebrities. LA also has some incredible beaches, artwork, and culture for you to explore. Here are five of my favorite things about the city.
Beautiful, iconic beaches
The beaches in Los Angeles are world famous, and for good reason. Each beach has its own unique character. Venice Beach is one of the most iconic and is as quirky as a beach can get - with cute shops, galleries, gorgeous cafes, street performers, Muscle Beach bodybuilders and more, it's the perfect place for a spot of people watching!
For those who want a chill day, head out to Malibu and enjoy the vibes and waves there. Santa Monica Beach is another great one - home to a famous pier and ferris wheel - and it's perfect for some Instagram snaps!
Beverly Hills
Hello 90210! The famous postcode and its accompanying district are best explored by taking a walking tour. Home to high-end shops and celebrity homes, Beverly Hills is something to be marveled at. Take a trip to Rodeo Drive and window shop 'till your heart's content. Plus, you never know who you'll spot - it's a mecca for celebrities, so keep an eye out!
The hikes and the bikes
It should be noted that when I visited LA, I did a 26 mile bike tour and I nearly died. LA is very, very hilly. And I was unfit. Be warned.
That being said, LA is a great area for hiking and it's a popular activity with the locals too. Browse any LA-based celebrity’s Instagram, and they will undoubtedly have a hiking picture every few snaps. Los Angeles is a health-conscious city and everywhere you go, you will find people enjoying an active lifestyle. There are loads of hiking trails throughout Los Angeles so why not sport those runners and get active!
Cycling is another great way to see the city, and the route via Santa Monica is one of the most popular. Get outdoors and explore!
Mouth-watering food
LA is absolutely fantastic for anyone who enjoys nothing more than a great meal out. There's such a vast range of cafes and restaurants here that you'll find options to suit every budget, while you could eat every cuisine type imaginable. Everyone will find something they love.
Check out Sprinkles Cupcakes for the coolest experience of your life - a vending machine with cupcakes! Eating out in LA will definitely be a highlight of any trip.
Visiting a movie set
Would a trip to LA be complete without a trip to a movie set? With Universal Studios, Warner Brothers, Paramount Pictures, and Sony Pictures all based in LA, you'll have plenty of studio backlot tours to choose from. You can also try and see how many famous spots you can discover as you wander through Los Angeles, as the list of films and TV shows shot in the city is practically endless.
