Author Description

From the Author When I first arrived in Los Angeles over ten years ago, what surprised me and a lot of newcomers is that there’s no central area where people congregate. Instead, Los Angeles is comprised of many different communities and centralized hangouts exist within those communities. Downtown here is primarily a collection of high rises and various industries where blue and white collar workers congregate during the day before scattering throughout town after work. So the best way to sample the different flavors of LA neighborhoods is to drive, drive, drive. This city is so huge that you can fit St. Louis, Milwaukee, Cleveland, Minneapolis, San Francisco, Boston, Pittsburgh and Manhattan together inside the city borders. You will need a car to get around. No wonder the guidebook took a year to put together! Most neighborhoods within the county, from Long Beach to Santa Clarita are profiled. There’s also plenty of resources needed to settle yourself in: local banks, utilities, cable, mail, publications, public transportation options, child care and public school districts, etc. And there's a thorough discussion of fun things to do, including museums, public parks, shopping districts, and even a section on annual public events within the city. I hope the information makes your move a smooth one. Thanks for checking out my guidebook and welcome to L.A.! -joan