My second trip this summer was to California. I've always wanted to visit the West Coast and I finally got to do so last week. I must say I visited quite a few places and let me tell you, the beaches are magnificent. Off I went into the sunset...Cali here we come!
I want to start off by mentioning the airline I chose, not only because I think it serves as a good trip advisor but also in case any of you decide to go this route be prepared for that $50 dollar luggage fee at check in. #Southwest airlines is one of the many airlines that now charge to have you check in your luggage but if you choose to bring it along you're allowed two bags on board and absolutely NO liquids under 8oz. There go your Victoria's Secret lotions and sprays. Ha! Nonetheless not a bad fly. FYI I took the photo above via my window seat as we flew over the Grand Canyon, Amaze balls!
Venice Beach
First stop, Los Angeles. The city of angels, as they say, particularly Venice Beach. Located west of Los Angeles, this beautiful resort town is filled with interesting characters such as local artists, vendors, eateries and entertainment. If you're looking for a good time (and I don't mean that way) this is definitely the place to visit.
Muscle Beach
We started our journey along Venice at Muscle Beach. The home of the only outdoor gym in the world, Muscle Beach is a kick! You will see a whole lot of body builders and a huge poser out front carrying tourists over his head and taking pictures with them. I've never seen anything like it. If you're near Venice Beach you can't miss it. It's not something you will ever see anywhere else.
Freak Show
The Venice Beach boardwalk paves the path to Malibu and along the way there are scenic and serene views of the Pacific Ocean much like you see in the movies. There are so many quirky individuals you are bound to run into such as the man who walks on glass and the freaks from the A&E show "Freakshow." I had to stop by and say hello.
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If you take a close look at the picture above you will see the smallest man and hairiest man in the world, also the bearded lady. All freaky and kind in their ways. Enter inside and there's a show where a woman swallows fire and the man who swallows swords. Both interesting and fun you get to hang out with them as well. Pretty Cool.
Santa Monica
As the sun started to set we made our way towards Santa Monica Beach and Pier, which are located on the North end of Los Angeles. You will encounter some zany individuals which make it all the more fun. The Santa Monica Pier is one of the main attractions in Santa Monica. The view is spectacular, especially at sun down.
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Manhattan Beach
The next day we made our way onto Manhattan Beach. Located in San Diego it's about a two hour drive from Los Angeles and I heard Vince Vaughn lives here too! Can I just move here?!
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Hotel California (such a lovely place...)
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That night we happened to stop by a hotel named Hotel California so I ran inside curious to find out if it's the same one The Eagles sing about in the song. I asked the hotel clergy and his exact words were "you never know," along with a wink. That confirmed my suspicions. How cool is that!
Hollywood
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I've been wanting to see the Hollywood sign for, I don't know, my whole life! It's located on Mulholland Boulevard. If you're lucky you can catch a good photo of it from afar but there are tours that drive up pretty close to it.
Hollywood Boulevard & The Walk of Stars
Hollywood is the place to be, isn't it? We made our way down Hollywood Boulevard where all of the famous stars have made their mark. From Marilyn Monroe to Billy Joel you will find your favorite actors and movie directors just under your feet.
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We headed down to the Chinese Theatre which is the host of movie premieres and the famous cement ground where all the A-list actors have made their marks, LITERALLY. You will see the hand and foot prints from the likes of Judy Garland, Jack Nicholson and John Wayne.
We also happened to pass by the Dolby Theatre which is the crown jewel of Hollywood and the first permanent home to the academy awards and red carpet.
La Jolla Shores
To end our trip we stayed at La Jolla Shores also located in San Diego. It's a great place to just relax and enjoy the beach.
California was everything I've dreamt of and then some. I will definitely be visiting again and I hope I was helpful for all of you soon to be Cali visitors. The ambiance, the people, the weather, the palm trees, everything is just so dreamy. I'd like to end this with a little side note...
When traveling to your favorite places just remember that at the end of the day all you need is LOVE.
When traveling to your favorite places just remember that at the end of the day all you need is LOVE.
XoXo
