Happy Weekend plus Things Not to Do

TGIF! This week seemed to fly by- thank goodness! I'd love to write that I was going to do something exciting this weekend, but that just isn't the case! So to spare you from my boring routine, I decided to follow in the fabulous footsteps of Nicole at La Mia Vita who did an adorable post about things NOT to do while in her town of San Francisco. Check it out if you haven't already- you'll love her! Since I know the excitement is just killing you (ha!) here are are my top no-no's while visiting the fabulous city that I call home: Los Angeles.

Things NOT to do in Los Angeles

1. LAX Bound: Flying into LAX may seem exciting (especially if you're into pesty paparazzi trying to snap the Beckhams who are inevitably around the corner) but try to avoid it if possible! Save time and luggage hassles by flying into smaller airports like Burbank, Santa Monica, and Long Beach. You'll be in and out in no time!

2. I must admit, I always feel horrible for tourists who go to Hollywood in hopes of seeing all the "glitz and glamour." Trust me, may-jah disappointment. If you want to see where/ how the 'stars' live, head west on Sunset for a few miles until you see the famous Welcome to Beverly Hills crest. Now we're talkin....!

3. Speaking of Beverly Hills, if you are in maximum tourist mode and want to "oooh" and "ahh" over the ginormous houses, grab a $5 star map and turn it into a fun adventure for you and your friends! This way you'll be able to stop at the celebrity houses of your choice and you'll be able to get out and snap pics whenever/wherever you want.


4. If you watch The Hills and want to live out your inner LC at the likes of Area, Social, and Le Deux, be prepared to possibly get denied entry (if they do it to Diddy and Paris anyone is game)! There are tons of less crowded lounges around Hollywood (check hotels like The Roosevelt and The Sunset Tower Hotel) that will have you just as satisfied, promise!

5. Traffic jam: If it's between 4p and 7p on any given weekday, be sure to avoid the 5, 10, 405, and 101. These are essential for commuters, but if you are just visiting, try canyon roads like Laurel, Cold Water, and Topanga, that can take you from the valley to Hollywood or the beach (or vice versa) in a lot less time. That being said, you will incur traffic here, so just connect your iPod or listen to Ryan Seacrest on KIISFM. You'll get there eventually!

6. Dinner Reservations: While Spago, Nobu, Dolce, and Mr. Chow are all fabulous eats, look for smaller and more quaint restaurants like Joans on Third, Charcoal, or Sushi Dan for a just as fun and yummy experience! Your wallet will thank you!

7. Beach Bum: The Santa Monica Pier and its complimenting beach are lovely, but they're just too crowded! Take the PCH north a few miles to a beach like Zuma (Malibu) for a much quieter and relaxing time.


8. If you are going somewhere that offers valet parking, do not pass them up on their offer. Most places actually valet for 2-3 hours free with validation- which is a lot less than it will cost you to pay and walk yourself!

9. Shopping on Rodeo is one of the best experiences in all of LA, but let's be honest, who can afford the $5K cropped blazer hanging in Versace's window display?! Take a stroll down Rodeo (do the whole pic thing in front of Chanel, Gucci, etc.) and then walk one block east to Beverly Dr. It is just as lovely as Rodeo, but houses stores like Anthropolgie and smaller boutiques that won't break the bank. It's a win win!

Photos: Funambula, Fyeasknybtch

Well that was fun! If you have time this weekend or next week, I invite you to post the top things not to do in your town! I'd love to read everyone's lists- I think it'd be fun! Be sure to let me know if you do so!

On to the good stuff: what are you up to this weekend?! Any plans?! Have a great time relaxing and spending time with your loved ones, fur babies, friends, etc!