Overall, it’s sun, surf and (movie) stars.
Where I went:
On average, I spend a few weeks each year in Southern California. My favorite spots are Los Angeles (including downtown and surrounding communities such as Pasadena, Santa Monica and Hollywood) and Newport Beach in Orange County.
What I wore:
I love to wear casual beachwear in Los Angeles. I typically shop at stores such as Lulu’s, Tilly’s, and Free People, and mix it with a few sundresses and cute sandals from Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom. I also like picking up new bathing suits and tops from local shops on Balboa Island and from some of the California chains in Santa Monica.
What I did:
Rather than listing off every activity, here are a few of my favorites:
Picnics at the Hollywood Bowl and the Getty Museum
Visiting the Hollywood Sign and having afternoon tea at the Beverly Hills Hotel
Sporting events (Yes, I know, LA is not considered a real sports town. I’ve had a great time cheering on the USC Trojans, attending Dallas Cowboys training camp, and ringing in the new year with the Rose Bowl and Rose Parade)
Industry events (MTV Movie Awards)
Performing at local venues
Beach time in the OC!
And a great alternative to theme parks is the SkySlide at U.S. Bank Tower in downtown LA.
I also had the opportunity to record at the Sunset Sound Studio! Click to see my band cover "My Girl" by the Temptations!
If you’re planning to shop, go upscale with Paul Smith, Fred Segal and Decades (Luxury Vintage) or unique with Jet Rag (Vintage), Amoeba Music (Music) and the Rose Bowl Flea Market.
What I ate/drank:
I like to eat healthy when I’m in So Cal, and I usually stick with salads, sushi and fish tacos. But I always save room for a trip to In-N-Out Burger. The drinking age in California is 18, and it’s a great place to drink California wines and Mexican beers.
Social media musts:
Make sure to plan a day to take photos at famous sites like the Hollywood sign. Other than that, you can’t go wrong with great beach sunsets! Just don't forget your sunglasses like I did!
Songs From My Travel Playlist From California:
Party In The U.S.A. - Miley Cyrus
L.A. Woman - The Doors
California Gurls - Katy Perry
Hotel California - The Eagles
California Love - Tupac
Surfin' U.S.A. - The Beach Boys
California Dreamin' - The Mamas & Papas
Californication - RHCP
This is How We Do - Katy Perry
Super Bass - Nicki Minaj
Just Dance - Lady Gaga
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