Overview Tab
Los Angeles, together with the rest of California, became part of the United States in 1848. When railroads were laid several decades later, the city’s population began to swell and the discovery of oil generated wealth. The city became a centre of oil production in the early twentieth century. Movie makers were also attracted to the west coast climate and established the city as their base. Today Los Angeles is the second most populous city in America, after New York. The city epitomises the American dream and welcomes visitors keen to explore the various neighbourhoods that together make Los Angeles.
Los Angeles is a year round destination. In winter the temperatures average a very comfortable 20 degrees, while in summer the mercury averages 29 degrees during the day. While rain is more common in winter, the sun still shines about 72 per cent of the time.
Los Angeles plays host to dozens of events throughout the year including the Newport Harbor Christmas Boat Parade, the Southern California Renaissance Pleasure Faire, The Eagle Rock Music Festival and the Carnevale Masquerade Party.
Air
From New Zealand, Air New Zealand operate direct flights from Auckland to Los Angeles. While Air Tahiti Nui operate flights to Los Angeles via Tahiti, and Qantas fly to Los Angeles via Sydney.
Flights from Auckland to Los Angeles direct take around 12 hours. Other airlines who fly to Los Angeles via a third city have a longer flying time, and in some cases require an overnight stay enroute.
Luxury Hotels
Hollywood offers some of the most lavish hotels in the world; many are household names including the Beverly Wilshire, Four Seasons Hotel and the Ritz Carlton. These hotels and more offer every conceivable luxury.
To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.
Sights to See
The top of most visitors’ lists is Hollywood. Enjoy wandering along Hollywood Boulevard to find your favourite actors on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Check out Kodak Theatre where the Academy Awards are held, experience the bizarre at Ripley’s Believe it or Not and take drive along Mulholland Drive for the city views and the household names who may stumble out of their houses. While in the area, drive through Beverly Hills before stopping off at the obligatory Rodeo Drive.
The beaches along the coast are well worth considering. Santa Monica and its historic pier is a focal point. Journey further south for the famed Venice Beach and Marina Del Rey. If you prefer indoor cultural pursuits, enjoy browsing the art collections in the Getty Centre, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
To experience movie magic, the perfect day’s entertainment for the whole family would have to be Universal Studios. The rides are sure to get the adrenaline pumping and the 3D shows are always popular.
Don't leave home without...
Los Angeles is an extensive modern city. Therefore if you happen to forget your favourite moisturiser, the chances are you can find a replacement.
Things to be careful of…
Personal Safety
Los Angeles has received much publicity in recent years regarding personal safety. Most visitors enjoy their stay in the city and don’t experience incidents in the main tourist locations. There are areas of downtown where it’s advisable to exercise caution.
