Home to Hollywood and a huge contingent of the world’s celebrities, the cosmopolitan city of Los Angeles is certainly an exciting place to relocate to.
With emphasis on an energetic, healthy, and clean-living lifestyle, it's becoming a more and more attractive city to Americans and expats alike, but those looking to make the move best be prepared to splash out, as LA’s high-profile sun and fun come at a price.
Boasting a great variety of attractions, Los Angeles is not only renowned for its shopping, nightlife, and restaurants, but also features an impressive variety of entertainment venues, world-class sports facilities, and spas.
Shopping in Los Angeles
For all the big design labels such as Versace and Louis Vuitton, hit the iconic Rodeo Drive, where one may even brush shoulders with a celebrity or two. Venice Boardwalk, on the other hand, is a good place to pick up arty items and anything unusual.
For great bargains, head to Ontario Mills; for big-name brands at substantial discounts have a look at Desert Hills Premium Outlets; or mingle, browse, and pick through an eclectic selection at the Rose Bowl Flea Market.
Eating out in Los Angeles
Catering to every taste and budget under the sun, the vast variety of restaurants in Los Angeles are second to none. With everything from delicious Mexican food at street-side vendors to haute cuisine in the city’s finest eateries, there’s something to suit every palate, and newcomers to the city will find a tremendous emphasis on fusion foods.
West Hollywood is where the swish and celebrity-owned LA restaurants can be found, but these tend to be outrageously priced. Pasadena offers some great eateries, as does Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills, and downtown LA.
Nightlife in Los Angeles
LA’s nightlife is world-renowned, and with global hot spots such as Sunset Strip and Hollywood Boulevard, those relocating to this city will have some of the best clubs, pubs, and lounges in the world right on their doorstep.
Expats will be pleased to know that, on any given night, something is happening somewhere, and a dazzling party, often star-studded, can be found in almost every corner of town.
Sports and outdoor activities in Los Angeles
In a city obsessed with looking good, it comes as no surprise that sport and fitness activities are popular pastimes among the beautiful residents of LA.
Los Angeles is home to a number of world-famous sports teams, including the LA Dodgers and the LA Lakers. College sports are also prominent on the city's sporting calendar with teams such as the UCLA Bruins and USC Trojans commanding a large support base. Expats also shouldn't miss out on the opportunity to catch a football or baseball game at one of LA's major sporting venues such as the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum or the Staples Center.
LA is also a great place for outdoor pursuits. From hiking, trail running, and mountain biking to horse riding, fishing, or just catching some rays on one of LA's pristine beaches, there really is no excuse not to spend time outdoors in this city.