It is so easy to misunderstand Los Angeles. It’s a vast place with a lot of concrete and a lot of cars, and many visitors feel threatened by that. But in fact, L.A. is a warm and welcoming city with some of the friendliest people in the world. After all, there is a reason why millions of people have chosen to live here! Here you have all of the resources and facilities of a metropolis together with a relaxed West Coast atmosphere and an ideal climate. There is a great deal of natural beauty, from the impressive San Gabriel mountains to the cliffy beaches of the South Bay. Contrary to popular belief, there are plenty of cultural opportunities in Los Angeles, but you do have to take some initiative to find them. So don’t get overwhelmed by the sheer number of people and activities; plan ahead, do your research, and be prepared to discover that you might actually love L.A.

goto disneyland and california adventure park

Head for the hills and go to Mulholland Drive for an amazing view of the city on a clear day.

Relax and go to any of the great restaurants in town.

airport's a complete zoo, allow lots of time

Los Angeles is BIG! REALLY BIG!

Must see places include: Universal Studios, disney land (stay 'till at least 10 pm for the fireworks), ronald reagan museum (it houses the previous air force one boeing 727 - bit of a drive though) and the santa monica pier. Avoid the Hollywood sign and the Kodak theatre - completely over rated. Expect everything to be exceptionally expensive and the Starbucks coffee isn't as good as it should be. Enjoy the scenery but make sure you are aware of taxi costs and the distance to your destination as the cabs take the longest possible route to a place if they realise your not american. Complain as much as possible hehe

If you're visiting LA, make sure you send time driving down the coast from Malibu, Santa Monica, Venice, Redondo Beach, Palos Verdes... It's amazing just sitting and watching the sunset.

If you are staying in Los Angeles for an extened period of time, BUY A THOMAS GUIDE. You can find any real address on any street in any part of LA with realitive ease, and it never runs out of batteries at 2:00 am, in the middle of Downtown...

Avoid the rush hour times when possible. 8-11 am, 4-7pm. Driving during these times between any two locations will take 1 to 3 hours.