Los Angeles

History of Los Angeles

Los Angeles, often referred to as L.A., is the largest city in California. It was founded on September 4, 1781, making it one of the oldest cities on the West Coast of the United States. Originally established as a small Spanish pueblo, it grew rapidly during the 19th century due to its favorable location and the California Gold Rush. Los Angeles became an important center for agriculture, oil, entertainment, and eventually, the film industry.

FAQ for Los Angeles

What is the best way to get to Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is well-connected by air and has multiple international airports. The most convenient way to reach the city is by flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which serves numerous domestic and international flights.

What is Los Angeles famous for?

Los Angeles is famous for its thriving entertainment industry, including Hollywood, the film capital of the world. It is also renowned for its beautiful beaches, such as Santa Monica and Venice Beach, and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame.

What are five interesting facts about Los Angeles?

• Los Angeles is the birthplace of the American film industry.
• The city hosted the Summer Olympic Games twice, in 1932 and 1984.
• Los Angeles has the largest population of any city in California and the second-largest in the United States.
• The iconic Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest art museum in the western United States.
• The city is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of international cuisines.

How did Los Angeles get its name?

Los Angeles received its name from the Spanish. "Los Angeles" translates to "The Angels" in Spanish, referring to the Catholic mission of the region named El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles, or "The Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels."

What are some travel tips for Los Angeles?

• Plan your transportation in advance as traffic can be congested. Consider using public transit, ride-sharing services, or renting a car.
• Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Downtown Los Angeles.
• Visit popular attractions like Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, and the Getty Center.
• Enjoy the sunny weather and beautiful beaches, but remember to use sunscreen and stay hydrated.
• Experience the vibrant nightlife and dining scene in areas like West Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles.

Do I need a visa to visit Los Angeles?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. If you are a citizen of a country participating in the Visa Waiver Program, you may be eligible for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) instead of a visa. Check with the appropriate authorities or your nearest embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding entry requirements.

When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?

Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The best time to visit is generally during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant, and there is less tourist congestion.

Are there local customs I should know for Los Angeles?

Drinking

The legal drinking age in Los Angeles is 21. It is important to drink responsibly and adhere to any specific regulations or policies at bars and restaurants.

Greetings

When greeting someone in Los Angeles, a handshake or a friendly smile is typically appropriate. It is customary to address people by their first names unless otherwise indicated.

Public transit

Los Angeles has a network of buses and trains operated by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Make sure to have a valid TAP card or exact change for bus fares. Metro rail lines are an efficient way to explore the city and avoid traffic.

Time Zone for Los Angeles

Los Angeles operates on Pacific Standard Time (PST) during the non-daylight saving period and Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) during daylight saving time.

Voltage/Plug Types

In Los Angeles, the standard voltage is 120 volts, and the plug type used is Type A/B, which has two flat pins. Travelers from countries with different plug types will need a plug adapter.

Currency

The currency used in Los Angeles and throughout the United States is the US Dollar (USD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

ATMs are widely available throughout Los Angeles, especially in commercial areas, banks, and shopping centers.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Los Angeles. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are commonly used.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

Yes, ApplePay and Google Pay are commonly accepted forms of payment in many establishments throughout Los Angeles.

How much do I tip in Los Angeles?

Tipping

• Restaurants/bars: It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill. Check if a service charge has already been included.
• Hotels: Tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops or housekeeping, is appreciated. $1-2 per bag for bellhops and $2-5 per night for housekeeping is common.
• Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is customary, and a tip of 10-15% of the fare is typical.
• Tour guides: If you take a guided tour, it is customary to tip the tour guide. The recommended amount varies based on the length and quality of the tour, but around $5-10 per person is a good guideline.

City Information

City Founding	Population	Elevation
September 4, 1781	3,822,238 (source)	71 ft (21.6 m)

Weather

Seasons/Months	Celsius	Fahrenheit
Spring (March - May)	15-24°C	59-75°F
Summer (June - August)	19-28°C	66-82°F
Fall (September - November)	16-26°C	61-79°F
Winter (December - February)	11-20°C	52-68°F