#ashtip: Navigating LA for Newbies

#ashtip: Look both ways before crossing the street... at full speed... in stilettos... all for a photo. 

1. Taking an Uber is the best way to get to LAX, but a way at all to get from it. It’s a hired car, a taxi, or a bus.

2. Another note about LAX: Just to give you a sense of direction, LAX is in Southwest LA. From there, you’re relatively close to Santa Monica and Venice, and pretty far from downtown.

3. The traffic is bad. Really, really bad.

4. Don’t go in the Pacific Ocean without a wetsuit. It’s freezing. If you want a swim, go to a hotel pool... preferably your own because gaining access to pools where you aren't a guest is usually either prohibited or expensive.

5. West Hollywood is where the hot restaurants, hot nightlife and hot people can be found. West Hollywood (WeHo) is not the western part of the LA neighborhood/ tourist trap of Hollywood. It is the city between Hollywood and Beverly Hills.

6. Do not go to Hollywood without a really, really good reason. In & Out does not qualify as a good reason.

7. The best shopping is in Beverly Hills, but not necessarily on Rodeo Drive, especially if you can’t afford premiere designer duds. Beverly Drive runs parallel next to Rodeo and offers tons more great shopping options. Another great shopping street in Beverly Hills is Robertson Blvd.

8. If you can’t tell from google which hot restaurants are the hottest, concentrate on those owned by H. Wood and SBE, those with a sister in New York, and those that are completely booked for the next two weeks.

9. If you’re not coming for a marathon, make absolutely sure you are not visiting LA during a marathon.

10. Don’t walk Santa Monica Pier. Instead, coast from Santa Monica to Venice.

11. Runyon Canyon is a pathetic excuse for a workout. For a better hike and better views, opt for Griffith Park.

12. LA is not very sunny in the morning, but don’t be disheartened. 6 days of of 7, the sun is out by 11.

13. Girls, don’t get on the Weho Pickup. It’s not for you.

14. The most beautiful, scenic beach is Matador, but it’s allll the way up the Malibu Coast. Whether or not the drive is worth it depends on how much you genuinely enjoy the beach.

15. LA is pretty casual. You’re totally fine going just about anywhere in yoga pants so long as you wear them with confidence and, preferably, accessorize. And denim shorts are fine for most dinner places as long as you finish your look with heels. In the same way, a party dress is appropriate attire for every meal of the day.