Visiting Los Angeles

Visiting Los Angeles was one of the highlights of the last five years. In 2012, I was in between relationships, feeling lost and directionless. I decided on a whim to go to Los Angeles for a break. I had always wanted to go and it just so happened that a friend of mine planned to be in Santa Monica at the same time. I managed to see him for a day or two while I was there.

So I booked my flights (and then worried about whether I was mad and whether I was doing the right thing). One of my happiest moments was driving in the sunshine on the highway between Beverly Hills and Santa Monica. I had the roof on the car down and was listening to Jack FM. Music and sunshine are always a good combination for me…a cocktail really would’ve been the cherry on top!

I thought I was quite brave – I arrived after midnight in Los Angeles, I then had to take a bus to the car rental place, drive a left hand drive car on the ‘wrong side’ of the road at 2am trying to find my hotel! Amazingly I made it.

I spoilt myself by booking a few nights in an expensive hotel (The SLS in Beverly Hills) and then also spent a few nights in a more reasonably priced hotel in Santa Monica – very good value for money as the location couldn’t have been better yet it didn’t cost too much (The Hotel Carmel).

I spent time on the beach, visited Hollywood walk and drove up to the Hollywood Hills.

One of the most AMAZING restaurants that I ate in was called Mastro’s – highly recommended. The enjoyed lobster mash, ate the most delicious steaks and the most divine dessert I have ever tasted. I ate so much that I had to leave the restaurant with my dress zip undone! (Oink Oink).

Here are a few pics to give you an idea:

If you are considering travelling alone but aren’t sure – do your research but make the effort to go. It can feel scary but it empowered me and I returned to the UK with greater confidence.

Fun Activity Rating 9/10 would definitely do it again!!

Mandy X

Photo by “Caveman Chuck” Coker

Author: Mandy Kloppers

Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.