Downtown Los Angeles

Growing up, I would have never imagine spending time in DTLA as an adult. The atmosphere and community was majorly different than what it is now. There was not much to offer, other than visiting Staples Center or taking a leisure walk in the Santee Alley looking for the best discounted deals. However, DTLA has drastically grown and it has shifted its ambience, scenery, and culture while remaining intact with its historic charm and busy city life. 

DTLA is the center headquarters of various companies, in addition to a growing residency community, upscale restaurants and trendy coffee shops and dessert spots.  There is Perch LA, The Association, The Standard,  The Edison and so many more trendy spots.  All with spectacular city views and energetic ambience. You would have never imagined DTLA was a place you would have wanted to live in, until recently. It has sky-rocketed in popularity with charming and modern lofts from old reconstructed buildings with rooftop pools overlooking a busy city.

Now, DTLA offers a lively and enticing feel that can satisfy our culture craving.  Beginning with Koreatown, the neighborhood just gives so much authentic flavor and energetic ambiance, that you must check out Korean BBQ food and dust off your signing skills with some karaoke. 

You must check out other places to explore an authentic culture flavor and immerse yourself with the local vibe. DTLA is filled with so much diversity and acceptance! It is really an unbelievable town.

Placita Olvera is a Mexican outdoor marketplace established in 1930. It is part of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument.  Here, you can indulge in authentic Mexican restaurants with live Mariachi music and folklorico dancing. 

Stroll in Olvera Street to take a museum tour, purchase a unique souvenir that emphasizes the Mexican culture in a craft store, or attend an event such as Mexican Independence Day, May 5th or Dia de los Muertes (Day of the Dead). All Mexican traditional events are celebrated to help preserve the culture, appreciate and understand our historical significance.    

Just a few blocks away is the epicenter of Chinatown. Known for their colorful red lanterns, authentic dim sum houses, bakeries and quaint stores selling Chinese medicine or holistic herbs to shopping. Chinatown will deliver an authentic experience.

Explore other areas of Los Angeles. There is so much culture, art and significance in exploring Los Angeles. Venture to  LACMA, an art museum that showcases exhibitions and collections. From Latin, Contemporary, Korean, Greek to Fashion collections. LACMA is a place to visit not only to be mesmerized by the creative art but also by their restaurants. Definitely enjoy a cocktail.  

Los Angeles has so much to offer. If you can look beyond its traffic and pollution, LA is a remarkable place to live and play. From urban environments to beachy vibes, anywhere you’d like to be, LA has it cover.  Yet, Los Angeles is a busy and chaotic city, pursuing mindfulness to delved into the here and now presence is crucial to help absorb the culture and embody the lifestyle at a slower pace. Hopefully, you can release the pressure to manifest the constant hustle of the city and indulge into the beauty it holds.   

Have you visited Los Angeles yet? What are your thoughts of Los Angeles?