Our move from Acton, Massachusetts to Los Angeles happened as planned in November of this year. We had visited Los Angeles many times before and were familiar with this big metropolis. We were aware of its multi-lane highways, speeding cars, and traffic jams. We knew it was not considered to be a beautiful city.
In addition to this somewhat negative image, there was an added issue this time. Just as we were leaving, there had been major fire burning near Malibu and in northern California as well. So many people back home asked us if we were sure about moving to LA. “Are you not concerned about the fires?”
Despite this additional anxiety provoking thoughts LA looked surprisingly beautiful. When we arrived. The temperature was around 60 degrees with sunshine. There was nice chill in the air during mornings and evenings. The mountains were visible all around. They actually appeared green and the higher peaks even had snow on top.
We did not see any signs of the fire except around mid-November when we could see dark smoke on the far side. We asked people we know in Los Angeles about the fires and their answer was, “As long as you don’t live near brush you are fine.”
Now, having been here for several weeks, and having celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas with the many family members we have in Southern California (19 to be precise), we are impressed with what LA has to offer.
There are surprisingly plentiful options for outdoor activities. We have hiked in Runyon Canyon Park, Griffith Park (which contains the famous Griffith Observatory), Eaton Canyon (North of Pasadena), and Elysian Park in which lies The Dodger Stadium. We have just scratched the surface. There are some serious hiking areas within an hour or two of driving. Then there are some amazing national parks within half a day drive: Joshua tree, Death Valley, King’s Canyon, and Sequoia, to name the closest ones. Eastern Sierras are not far either, nor is Yosemite. We hope to keep hiking!!
We have also enjoyed beautiful sunsets on the ocean near Santa Monica, Huntington Beach, as well as Palos Verdes. It has been a bit cold to go in the water or bike around, but that would be something to look forward to in warmer months.
We are also exploring the food scene in LA. There are plenty of places serving Ramen noodles, Sushi and Thai food. Around where our daughter lives, one can get excellent Korean barbecue (per Ashok, the “best” steak) and of course Mexican food is available on practically every street. Our need for spicy food is fully satisfied. With so many eateries competing with each other, we find that eating out is not so expensive as it is in Boston or NYC.
As we learn to live in this part of the country, which is so very different from the one we left behind, we will have to train ourselves to deal with the ferocious freeways and ignore the instructions of our dear Rambha (name for our GPS) to cross six-lanes of madcap traffic to reach an exit. We will have to see the snow on the mountains at 10,000 feet without touching it and we will have to get used to not having well defined seasons. We will embrace the scene here for a stretch while until we decide where our home will be.
--Meera (29th December 2018)
Ashok & Meera, fascinating stuff! What a daring move ... all the very best!!
I agree with you, though I am biased, as you know. LA (and CA as a whole) are very beautiful, especially since there is so much to explore. I have marveled at the places you have been to. I have also loved driving over San Bernardino Mountains, especially to Lake Arrowhead and over to Wrightwood. Also loved going to Ojai (near Santa Barbara) and hiking on the way in Camarillo or Thousand Oaks or Ventura - all fire country of course. Beautiful country, and I am glad you are taking in those rich juices. Also, Route 1 north of San Francisco - for about 200 miles is extremely beautiful (though not as well known as the southern route) - I…