Los Angeles Trip

Los Angeles is the home of the countries rich and famous but who's to say us common folk can't spend a week or two basking in the lime light? When most people envision Los Angeles, the first image that seems to come to mind is the lavish Beverly Hills. Full of fountains, rose gardens, mansions and the famously lit Beverly Hills sign, this city is also home to Rodeo Drive. Rodeo Drive is any shoppers dream where getting rid of that extra $1000-2000 in your pocket is an easy task. The iconic boutiques include none other than Versace and Cartier and if you squint, you can still see Julia Roberts walking through the streets from her infamous role in Pretty Woman. Speaking of the rich and the famous, no visit the L.A. would be complete without a trip to the Chinese Theatre. Opened in the early 1900's, this cinema is a huge part of the city's history and is conveniently located right by the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which has the hand prints of over 1,000 stars. Another famous aspect of Los Angeles's character is it's beachy shores and flawless weather and the Santa Monica Pier is the perfect place to spend a sunny day! A true amusement park, complete with cotton candy, a massive Ferris wheel, plenty of games and fun-themed restaurants, the pier is a symbol of never ending summer fun in the always perfect Los Angeles weather. Even though the pier is more well-known, Venice Beach is also a sight worth seeing. Venice Beach might not have the same top of the line entertainment as the pier, but the rugged vibe of this beach still stays strong! The beach is full of artists selling their intricate paintings and roller bladders enjoying the sunset, along with a few magicians and jugglers to entertain the masses. After a day of sun at the beach, a little more mental stimulation might be much needed and a trip to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art would do the just the trick. Even though the museum's most famous piece is without a doubt the Urban Light sculpture, made out of over 200 antique lamps, inside you will find an impressive art collection, sure to blow away even the greatest critic. As you've probably noticed thus far, Los Angeles doesn't come cheap but a great alternative to all the high-end spending is a stroll down the Farmer's Market. A historical market full of gourmet food and street vendors, this food paradise is set under a a group of trees covered in twinkling lights. If there are any sports fans with you on your trip, then a

visit to the Staples Center might be in order. Home to the Los Angeles Kings, Lakers and Clippers, this is also one of the most popular venues for famous singers and performers, so it'll serve you well to see who's in town around the time of your visit. Last, but not least, what would a trip to L.A. be without a glimpse at the Hollywood Sign? An American landmark, it's quite difficult to get near it as it's located on Mount Lee, high up in the Hollywood Hills. But, the Loews hotel has a pretty decent view of it if you stand on their balcony and zoom in your camera all the way.