Los Angeles earned the nickname "City of Angels" due to its Spanish translation. The Spanish colonizers originally named it "El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de Los Ángeles del Río de Porciúncula," which translates to "The Town of Our Lady the Queen of Angels of the Porciúncula River."
LA can be visited throughout the year. But the months of March to May, mid-September, and November are especially recommended as the weather is pleasant and crowds are friendly. Summer months see a lot of fun festivals and autumn marks another sweet spot for tourist visits. If you visit in winter, make sure to carry your umbrella as it rains in January and February.
The best option for a traveller is to book tours with roundtrip transportation included in the package to ensure a hassle-free sightseeing experience. However, if you want to travel by public transport, the ‘Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’ runs six colour-coded Metro lines and a reloadable TAP card is what you should get to pay for the train rides. Avoid using the buses as they are not exactly a popular mode of transport in LA. Other than that, renting a car is a good idea if you want to explore on your own and do a lot of road travel.
Los Angeles provides a diverse array of attractions that cater to various interests. Among the well-known options are the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios Hollywood, Griffith Observatory, Getty Center, Santa Monica Pier, and the La Brea Tar Pits. Additionally, it's highly recommended to venture into renowned neighborhoods such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Venice Beach for further exploration.
LA is a safe city but it’s always good to be alert. Watch out for pickpockets and guard your belongings. Be cautious about strangers on the street claiming to be from a production studio or agency. Scamming people in the name of casting is a common crime in the city. And finally, carry as little cash as possible when you travel as credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Los Angeles is a haven for shopping enthusiasts. Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is celebrated for its upscale boutiques and luxurious fashion offerings. The Grove and The Americana at Brand are well-frequented open-air shopping centers. For a distinctive shopping experience, make sure to explore the vibrant areas of Melrose Avenue and Abbot Kinney Boulevard, renowned for their trendy shops and independent boutiques.
There is a multitude of day trips and excursions available from Los Angeles. Some favored choices encompass a visit to nearby attractions such as Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, the exploration of the breathtaking beaches in Malibu, or embarking on a trip to Santa Barbara, renowned for its picturesque coastline and wineries.