I haven’t spent a week in Los Angeles for decades. My two nieces from New Hampshire came out to SoCal for vacation, and we chose LA to visit. Our hotel was in Santa Monica and walking distance to the beach and the famous Santa Monica Pier. Lucky for them, we started the week in the high 80’s.
Highlights of the Trip
Warner Brothers Studio Tour – We got this tip from one of the many underemployed want-to-be actors that are now shuttle drivers in LA. Warner Bros beats Universal in price, convenience, and unforgettable moments. If you are a Harry Potter or Batman fan, you’ll love the tour stop at their museum filled with memorabilia to both movie series. How great is this photo of petrified Hermione?
Third Street Promenade – This pedestrian walking area in Santa Monica has great dining, shopping, and people watching. Our favorite restaurant there was Trastevere Trattoria Italiana. We enjoyed delicious entrees and desserts.
Ocean Avenue – thanks to my adopted son from USC, we also dined at the Water Grill (great food, smaller portions) and had drinks rooftop at the Hotel Shangri-La. Hotel Shangri-La is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Midlights of the Trip
Tour of Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, and Beverly Hills Homes to the Stars – Just a quick note on this: they don’t show you homes of any stars. Stars don’t live in Beverly Hills any longer.
Lowlights of the Trip
Traffic – OMG. How do people live in LA? Each time I drove us someplace, it was a panic-filled event. That’s all I’ll say. I don’t want to relive it.
Sushi Roku – We had a horrible experience at this “contemporary” sushi place. The waitress was rude and talked behind our backs during the entire measly meal. The portions were so small, we had to order a rice side dish just so we wouldn’t leave angry and starving.
Best of all – Getting to spend time with my two nieces who have become wonderful young ladies!
