Los Angeles is one of the biggest tourist hubs in not just the United States, but the world. In 2014 I went on my second trip to the city of angels, the first being in 2009 and I can honestly say, twice was enough. The celebrity capital was overcrowded, smoggy, dirty and filled with some of the rudest people I have ever encountered. But here’s a more detailed list of why I think it’s very overrated.
The people
One of my most vivid memories from my first trip at just 15 years old is the weird characters we encountered on Hollywood Boulevard.
Unfortunately there were a lot of homeless people who were screaming or having mental health issues. I also remembered countless artists, mostyl hip-hop shoving CDs in our face and trying to sell their music. This was inspiring in a way, seeing people actually come to Hollywood and chase their dreams. But it was slightly annoying how many people were doing it too. There were also many people dressed in cheap, stained costumes trying to get money by taking photos with tourists.
I am sad to say, that in 2014 it may have been even worse. Without the protection of my father, the men were creepy as a young blonde girl walking the streets alone. If they weren’t intimidating in that way, then they were extremely rude. One day, on the public bus armed with my suitcase, a local forcibly pushed my suitcase out of his way complaining and almost had me in tears.
The pollution
This was my ‘view’ of the city of Los Angeles. The pollution was so thick, I could hardly make out the city skyline that weren’t all that far away. Not only does it affect the view, but when walking around downtown L.A or Hollywood I would encounter horrible smells. The streets were very dirty and filled with litter. Beverly Hills is a nice breath of fresh air – quite literally – and was easily the nicest area in the city. I think Beverly Hills is what Hollywood was a few decades ago. I would definitely recommend spending an afternoon there to check out Rodeo Drive and the amazing cafes and restaurants in the area. Be sure to check out the famous Il Pastaio for the best pasta in town (and affordable).
No celebrities in sight
This is possibly one of the main reasons tourists flock to L.A, but unsurprisingly, celebrities don’t love the constant attention so tend to avoid crowded places and spend their time in their gated communities or at very expensive establishments on lock down. I did a ‘celebrity homes’ tour and was very disappointed because even when touring to see celebrity houses, there are gates and huge walls so you can’t see a thing. Maybe a corner of a roof. Don’t waste you’re money, just Google their houses. Because who’s to know if these homes really even belong to who they say they do.
I enjoyed San Diego & San Fransisco a lot more
San Diego is a very short drive from L.A and definitely less touristy. The beautiful and endless options of beaches, year-round great weather, relaxed attitude and close proximity to Mexico make it an incredible city. Old Town is a major highlight being the closest thing to a Mexican experience without crossing the border. La Jolla and Coronado Island are other areas I loved visiting.
San Fransisco, whilst a fair way from L.A, is one of the most interesting cities I have ever been to. The Golden Gate Bridge is remarkable along with historic Alcatraz Island and the famous cable car experience. The Mission area is a must for the alternative crowd. The beautiful buildings ranging from the Victorian to the Modern and everything in between make every street a new experience. San Fransisco did however, have a large number of homeless people. In saying that they tended to stick to the one area (the Tenderloin) and I was rarely bothered by them elsewhere.
It’s very spread out, horrible traffic and no public transport
I was having to get taxis and Lyfts around because the buses were so infrequent and 30 minute drive would take 2 hours+ on a bus. But then you would also be delayed traveling by car because the traffic is always so bad. I was delayed by almost 2 hours on my bus from San Diego.
The touristy spots are very cliche
Having done Disneyland and Universal Studios when I was 15 and not being a big ‘theme park’ lover, I wouldn’t rush back for those reasons. I believe I’ve done all the big tourist attractions like the walk of fame, Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier etc. I don’t know of much else to see but maybe I need to explore more like a local to find out.
Other cities around the world such as New York, San Fransisco, London and Prague have me screaming for more, no matter how many times I have been (I have been to New York 7 times and counting), but I just don’t feel like that about L.A.
I would love to hear your thoughts on Los Angeles, after all, I am only one person with one opinion.
