Insider Tips and Advice

Visiting another city often means getting used to a new and different lifestyle, culture and way of doing things. Here are some insider Los Angeles tips and tricks to help you seem like an L.A. native in no time.

Tips on Getting Around Los Angeles

• In many neighborhoods, street parking is by permit only -- read the signs very carefully or risk getting a ticket.


• Some parts of L.A. have alleys which provide convenient shortcuts between side streets.


• Because parking lots are a rarity, expect to valet park your car at most restaurants and nightclubs. Valet fees run between $3 and $10 depending on where you're going.


• Almost all major intersections have motion-sensitive cameras to catch cars that run red lights.


• On some busy streets, it's illegal to make a left during rush hours, typically 7-9 am and 4-7 pm. Look for posted signs before turning left during peak traffic hours.

Tips on Los Angeles Weather

• Because of its proximity to the ocean, many mornings are overcast due to the "marine layer". The fog/clouds usually burn off by noon, after which the sun comes out.


• June is often characterized by cool, cloudy weather, known as "June Gloom".


• Downpours are rare in Los Angeles, but winter months can bring long periods of drizzling rain.


• Since it's somewhat of a desert climate, even warm days can end with cool evenings. A light jacket can be handy year-round.


• The valley is generally 10-20 degrees warmer than central Los Angeles.

General Los Angeles Tips

• Los Angeles has several local airports. When making travel arrangements, consider flying into Burbank, Ontario or Long Beach in addition to LAX for more schedule and fare price options.


• Los Angeles is home to many celebrities. Before asking a star for an autograph or recounting how much you love their movies, remember that this is where they live -- would you want to be interrupted every time you went out to run an errand?


• Still, if a celebrity sighting is what you're after, you'll have better luck if you don't plan your activities around supposed "celebrity hangouts". Go about your normal business and you'll more than likely see a star while eating out, going to the grocery store or attending a movie. Find the top celebrity-sighting hotspots.


• Be considerate of local residents, this is after all our home :)