They say that any conversation in Los Angeles begins with the question "Where did you come from?" - all because of the multicultural atmosphere that attracts tourists from all over the world. Some are looking for experiences in Los Angeles and get them in unforgettable California adventures, acquaintances and outdoor activities. Others come here with a big dream - to become a successful IT specialist, researcher or second Leonardo DiCaprio. Still others fell in love with the city once and decided to stay in it forever. Los Angeles is an amazing city, as if it has absorbed all the best from America and, like nothing else, embodies its cultural values. Let's try to find out what is the secret of the fantastic magnetism of Los Angeles.
History of Los Angeles: Two Centuries from Wasteland to City of Peace
Today, Los Angeles has almost 4 million people, and back in 1820, only 650 people lived in the largest secular settlement! On the territory of modern Los Angeles, about 30 settlements of the Tongwa Indians, numbering about 3 thousand people, lived for a long time. For a while, the city was part of Mexico, which declared its independence, but not for long: in 1848, Los Angeles passed to the United States as a result of the defeat of the Mexicans in the American-Mexican War.
Then the city was awaited by two events that determined its happy fate. In 1876, a railway was laid to Los Angeles: at this time, the cultivation of oranges was the basis of the local economy. But everything changed in 1892, when oil deposits were discovered in the area of the city. Within 20 years, the city accounted for a quarter of the world's oil production.
Since the 1920s, the development of the city went in full swing: the first film studios were opened, aviation was developing dynamically. At the same time, Los Angeles became a home for educated migrants - escaping Nazism, prominent figures of science and art moved here: Thomas Mann, Lyon Feuchtwanger, Fritz Lang, Bertold Brecht and others.
In the 50s, the city only picked up the pace of development and growth - transport interchanges were built, skyscrapers were erected, new companies were opened. The most important advantage of the city is its gorgeous location, where there are mountains on one side and an immense ocean on the other. But it would be a mistake to think of Los Angeles as a fabulous place where there are no problems. Despite its high level of development, Los Angeles has to contend with the challenges of wildfires, earthquakes, high crime rates and a diversified economy.
About Los Angeles in Facts
- California State
- Currency: US dollar
- Area: 1301.97 sq. Km
- Population: 3,990,456
- Founded: 1781
- Original title: El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles, or City of the Queen of Angels.
Regions of Los Angeles
The landscape of the metropolis is a miniature USA: there are picturesque beaches, snow-capped mountains, huge suburbs and untouched nature. The metropolis is divided into several districts:
- Santa Monica - the famous area has 100 kilometers of coastline. The location of the area has influenced its development as a center for entertainment and nightlife. There is a large number of outrageous clubs, bars and restaurants, but not only - the famous Museum of Art and Heritage Museum are also located in Santa Monica. Let's note the important points of the area for tourists: prices for accommodation here are relatively low, Santa Monica is a fairly calm place with a low crime rate, but street theft is a frequent occurrence.
- Beverly Hills is a fashionable neighborhood where Hollywood stars live. The streets are lined with boutiques and shops with exorbitant prices, and the Museum of Radio and Television is located.
- Hollywood is a stellar neighborhood with the Walk of Fame and the country's oldest film studio, Universal .
- Malibu is another area with heavenly life. There are white beaches with azure water. The main attraction of Malibu is untouched nature, the absence of skyscrapers and huge film studios.
Kitchen
More than one gastronomic discovery awaits you in the city: numerous restaurants and cafes offer dishes of different nationalities, and the price range is very wide. Here you will find chic restaurants lined with red carpet, dishes from world-famous chefs, small and inexpensive cafes that have become legends. You can taste all the possible cuisines of the world without leaving Los Angeles. Here are some examples of popular establishments with budget prices:
- Furnsaj Bakery & Restaurant is a Lebanese place where you can sample Los Angeles shawarma and falafel. Address: 11146 Balboa Blvd.
- Kurrypinch | Sri Lankan Cuisine is the best place with Sri Lankan cuisine and large portions. The cost of lunch is about $ 7. Address: 6159 Van Nuys Blvd.
- Monta Factory - Here you can taste American cuisine. The hallmark of the establishment is the American Sini-Monta dumplings seasoned with spices and served with yogurt sauce. Address: 1208 W Glenoaks Blvd.
- Yaki's the Original Teriyaki is a place with delicious teriyaki chicken. On Wednesdays, a serving of chicken costs $ 6. Address: 904 W Alameda Ave.
Los Angeles landmarks
- Disneyland - for those who visit Los Angeles, a visit to Disneyland is considered a must, since the park is located just 45 minutes from the city.
- Runyon Canyon Park will reveal the beauty of the local nature and prove that it is not worth stopping at man-made attractions.
- Universal Studio - the work of huge film studios has long become boring for the locals, but for foreigners it is like opening the curtain of a great mystery. Moreover, the studio has opened a huge theme park with amazing attractions, so it will not be possible to catch the actors on the set by 99.9%, but plunge into the magical world is definitely yes.
- Griffith Park is the largest state park in the States, which houses the Museum of the American West and the observatory . In the park, you can walk along alleys, climb hills, ride the railroad, visit the zoo, or have a picnic. The observatory offers the best views of Hollywood .
- Dolby Theater - The Kodak Theater opened in 2001 and has since become the venue for the annual Oscars. Tours cost $ 15 every day: theatergoers will walk through the five-level foyer and enjoy the intimate atmosphere created by oval silver domes, cherry wood balustrades and walls decorated with images of the winners.
- Walt Disney Concert Hall - Tourists can take part in a guided tour of the hall, admire the magnificent foyer, and visit the gardens around. Walt Disney's wife donated $ 50 million for the construction.
