While taking a 2 1/2 hour, in-depth online training/teleconference course today at work, I began to ponder my new life in LA; day dreaming with my eyes drawn to the Hollywood Hills out my 9th floor window.  And I realized, I've never touched upon goals.  As in traveling goals, you know, sight-seeing agendas.  That tricky business of balancing everything you want to see, need to see, must see, comes recommended by locals and those that are really overrated.  Important note, try to do some pre-planning as to the schedule and priority of things (knowing full well to make plenty of room for unexpected, off-the-cuff, why-the-hell-not moments) as traveling can easily (and will most likely at some point) cross over into emotionally and physically distressed states (overwhelmed, tired, stressed, angry), and we most certainly want to avoid that.

So. As a new resident of a big city, I'm beginning to compile my list of what to do, eat, see, enjoy, experience, etc for the city of LA, and its surroundings.  [ Again, schedule according to time available and energies willing to be spent.]  This can be done through many outlets; friends, internet, local papers/magazines, local residents, information centers, hotel/hostel employees.  My favorite part, compiling the list!  Write down what the reasons you came to that city are, what it's known for, what your dying to do, and cross out, write in and switch around to your heart's content.  I do have to note, at some point stop researching, because this process can go on forever with the more things you find and the more people you talk to, so do narrow it down a bit.  Also, make sure you are keeping your research to only the dates, times and season you will be there, otherwise, your time becomes "wasted" on viewing really cool things that are happening/open when you are not there. [Things relates to places, restaurants, concerts, events, programs, museums, hotspots, outdoor activities, etc.]  As your list grows, keep on top of the refining process - never let any draft get too out of hand.  It usually ends up as a crumpled ball of paper in the trash. Tip: Check addresses and group together things in similar areas, taking advantage of as much time as possible to enjoy other things.

As in most cities, LA is FULL of things to do, and not all (definitely not all) will I be able to accomplish.  When I was traveling, of course I made time to see the "big" things, the touristy things, but depending on time, personal taste, level of desire, I wouldn't go inside or explore it on a deeper level.  I would view it from a walking or bus tour, or pick up a pamphlet.  Churches are a prime example. Some house paintings done by the Masters, dead poets or wood from Noah's Ark.  But a lot are exactly the same inside and out (which goes for a lot of "things to see"). So, pick, choose and enjoy!!

Safe Travels!