Shereen Shabnam
Los Angeles is a trend-setting global metropolis with a fascinating history, a rich cultural heritage and the center of the global film industry. It enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate and moderate temperatures with low humidity year-round.
Every year in November, the world top motoring journalists gather in Pasadena to drive cars nominated for the World Car of the Year Awards and it is one of my favourite trips in the whole year. I enjoy driving the latest cars through the city and up to the mountains via the Angeles Crest Highway.
Los Angeles has a charm that makes you come back to the city again and again – we love the iconic Hollywood sign, behind-the-scenes tours of movie studios, cultural attractions, art galleries and more. It is truly the entertainment capital of the world with Michelin-starred restaurants and an amazing coastline. Below I highlight some my top five favourite spots in LA.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Theme has mind-blowing rides based on blockbuster movies that change regularly, and it is also a working movie studio and an attraction everyone can enjoy. When you are tired of the rides, you can check out CityWalk, a three-block entertainment area, with shopping, dining, and theaters.
Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory
Griffith Park is the largest city park in Los Angeles, home to the Los Angeles Zoo, the Griffith Observatory, a planetarium, and a Greek theater. It has golf courses, tennis courts, hiking trails, walking trails and scenic drives through the mountains with views over the city and beyond.
Hollywood
Hollywood as a suburb has a unique history and iconic sites. The attractions in Hollywood are closely associated with the film industry and the glamour of the silver screen. Check out the hillside Hollywood sign, Hollywood Boulevard and of course a shopping trip on Rodeo Drive. My favourite hotel to stay in is Beverly Wilshire which has all the best brands close to the hotel.
Petersen Automotive Museum
As a car lover, I go to a car museum in every city I visit that has one and love the incredible collection at the Petersen Automotive Museum. Spread over four floors are a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits featuring more than 300 cars and motorcycles, ranging from perfectly preserved items from 1886 to concepts for the 21st century. You can also do a guided Vault tour to get additional insights on rare and unusual cars.
Getty Center
The Getty Center is world-renowned for its collection of European and American art from medieval times to the present. The museum has a campus with Modern design, open spaces, Central Garden and a lovely tree-lined walkway.
How to get there
I flew to Los Angeles from Dubai with Turkish Airlines. Ideally it is nice to stop in beautiful Istanbul for a break to see the amazing city but if you are short on time, the flight connection to Los Angeles is seamless. Turkish Airlines has daily flight from Istanbul to Los Angeles.
