Yourstrulyme

2024 was all about change. For me, the biggest change was moving to a new country from our home in India. The new girl in the city, still in the exploring phase, waited eagerly for the most joyous time of the year. This was my first holiday season in the US, and I couldn’t have been more excited. It was a completely different experience here. The houses were lit with unique decorations, and the streets were bustling with festive charm radiating in all its glory. Being our first holiday season, we wanted to make it memorable with a trip. So, here I am sharing our story of visiting Los Angeles during the end of 2024.

The Planning

Our planning started a bit late, and we couldn’t make arrangements for a long trip. So, we decided to drive down to LA to experience the star-studded city firsthand. The drive was smooth and comfortable. We reached LA on Christmas Day. Since most stores, attractions, and restaurants were closed for the holiday, we kept the day simple. Starting the next day, here are some of the places we explored and tips that might help you if you’re planning a trip.

Santa Monica

The most popular beach destination, Santa Monica, offers a mix of recreation, amusement activities, beachside cafes, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. We spent a relaxed time around the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Of course, we couldn’t miss clicking a picture near the signboard marking the end of Route 66. A location where a scene from the iconic Forrest Gump movie was shot added to the charm. This beach truly has something for everyone.

LA Zoo

We spent about 2-3 hours exploring the Los Angeles Zoo. The entry fee was approximately $22 per adult, and there were food stalls inside for a quick bite. The zoo is vast and home to a wide variety of animals. What we loved most was the organization of animals by continent, such as Asia and Africa, with recreated habitats closely resembling their natural environments. While informative and enjoyable, I feel this spot might appeal more to kids.

Griffith Observatory

This spot always topped our list of must-visit places in LA. The drive up to Griffith Observatory was tiring due to heavy traffic, especially near the destination. However, the stunning view from the top, featuring the iconic Hollywood sign and an aerial view of the bright city, made it worthwhile. The planetarium offered insights into astronomy, and though we missed the shows, this destination is perfect for both adults and kids.

Hollywood

As the heart of entertainment, Hollywood is must-see. The neighborhood exudes entertainment vibes, with stores of popular brands, large movie billboards, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and numerous restaurants. We visited Madame Tussauds Hollywood, which was our first wax museum experience. Though we have no basis for comparison, it was a fun and unique visit.

Beverly Hills

We drove around Beverly Hills, admiring the spectacular houses and high-end brands. We also strolled through the streets, hoping to spot a celebrity or two, though we weren’t lucky this time.

Venice Beach

Compared to other places we visited; Venice Beach had a quieter vibe. We spent long hours here, gazing at the ocean and relaxing. A walk to Muscle Beach and the nearby beachside stores added to the experience. There’s also a cycling track if you prefer an active evening.

Joshua Tree National Park

From Burbank, we drove about three hours to Joshua Tree National Park. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, we could only manage a short trail. While the views were nice, it felt a bit underwhelming since we couldn’t explore much. The park offers camping, stargazing, and longer trails that lead to unique rock formations. A tip: spending at least half a day here would allow a better experience.

Observations and Tips

• Traffic: LA traffic can be heavy, so plan your routes and timing accordingly.
• Pre-booking: For popular tours like Warner Bros. Studio, book well in advance to avoid missing out.
• Theme Parks: We skipped Universal Studios and Disneyland since we aren’t big on adventure rides. However, if you plan to visit, check for less crowded days and pre-plan to avoid long waiting times.
• Food: LA’s food scene is vibrant. There are plenty of amazing options, so choose what’s nearby based on your preferences. You won’t be disappointed!
• Accommodation: We stayed near the airport, but staying closer to downtown might reduce time spent on the road.

Wrapping Up 2024

That’s how we wrapped up 2024! It was a year of change, lessons, and new perspectives, with an amazing opportunity to explore. Here’s hoping that this new girl in a new city has more travels and stories to share in the coming year!