By Expedia Team, on May 22, 2014

Jason Grant’s Los Angeles

This was my very first visit to LA, so it was all about sightseeing, shopping, eating and drinking. And of course, plenty of design research!

Tourist Stuff

LA is the perfect city to play tourist. There’s the Hollywood Walk of fame and The Hollywood Sign – of course, remember to keep your eyes peeled for celebrities. Expedia’s Kiwi travellers tend to stay in the Hollywood, and Beverly Hills, with September one of the most popular times to visit, when the weather is perfect for walking and sightseeing.

Sightseeing and celeb spotting works up an appetite. In-N-Out Burger has a reputation for some of the best burgers in town and lets just say once you’ve tasted their burgers and shakes, once isn’t enough!

Venice

Just like my home suburb Bondi, Venice is famous for its beach but there’s much more to see than the sand and surf.

The TV shows have it right – the boardwalk and soft sand don’t disappoint. We were lucky enough to have warm weather but it’s also about the vibe and the people watching.

Tucked a few blocks back from the beach is Abbot Kinney Blvd, possibly one of the coolest streets in the world. Jammed with cool shops, bookstores, men’s and women’s fashion boutiques and plenty of cafes, it’s a sweet little spot you could easily miss but make sure you don’t.

A few favourites along the strip were:

Chariots on Fire, 1342 Abott Kinney Blvd
A cool design/furniture store with an eclectic mix of furniture, accessories, lighting and rugs, a mix of new and vintage. I loved the moroccan floor rugs and the elegant timber furniture.