The Best of L.A.

Anyone that knows me knows that I am not a fan of L.A.. That's right Zhi, I said it, I don't like L.A.. However a recent prolonged visit (my brother now lives in La La Land) made me think a little more about the things I can enjoy when in the area. The things will make for my list of:

If you have to be in LA you have to see/do this!

1. The Getty Museum
Not only does it house great artistic exhibits, but the building designed by Richard Meier is also architecturally beautiful. Entry into the museum is free, but be prepared to pay $15 for parking.. haha. Check out an exhibit or two (Shayne and I saw the work of Jean-Leon Gerome because the advertisement included a Gladiator, and my friend Jon had recommended it), take the "Architecture Tour" then spend some time just relaxing on the grassy knoll and enjoying the view.

2. Diddy Riese in Westwood

My friend Debs first made me aware of this, the best ice cream sandwich shop around. For only $1.50 you get to create your own ice-cream sandwich. Simply choose any two amazingly soft and freshly baked cookies and a flavour of ice cream. Wha-La, a delicious melt-in-your-mouth summer great. Don't wait... go there now! Yummmm... just thinking of them makes me want to jump in my car forthwith.

3. Hennessey + Ingalls Art & Architecture Bookstore (in Santa Monica)

Specializing in all forms of artistic publications, this is the place to go for any creative. I set aside at least an hour to peruse the many offerings of this amazing bookstore. Photography, Graphic Design, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Interior Design, Architecture, and More! This bookstore has it all. And since I'm teaching a Graphic Design elective in the high school next year, I finally have an excuse to buy! :D

4. Six Flags Magic Mountain

If you are a lover of roller coasters, six flags is the place for you. Rider be warned, dress with zippered pockets, only bring what will fit inside, otherwise you'll be stuck paying $1 each time you go on a ride to rent a locker to put your stuff in. Otherwise, amazing roller-coasters! Stay late so you can get the short lines :D

5. Small Concert Venues
One thing I can say for certain is that L.A. has music. Whether you like the big bands or the small bands, you can find them performing at sometime, someplace. A few great small venues to check out are: Hotel Cafe, The Knitting Factory, and The Troubadour.

6. Disneyland
Who can resist a trip to the "happiest place on earth"? Well, I went two summers ago, so actually this time I resisted a trip there (it was replaced with magic mountain), but really, you can't leave it off the list of L.A's locations.

7. Beaches
Of course the coast of California has TONs of beaches. Beach volleyball, surfing, etc etc. Go crazy, just don't forget the sunscreen.

And there you have it. Seven things to make sure you do in LA. :D