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Los Angeles

Los Angeles may be famed as the home of the star-studded Hollywood, but as the second largest metropolitan area in the US, it has a lot more to offer than just the glitz and glamour of showbiz and celebrity extravagance.

Hostels in Los Angeles are readily available, with travelers spoilt for choice among the city’s many districts. Backpackers can even select on the basis of cultural theme, with areas such as Chinatown, Little Tokyo, Little Ethiopia and Little India all offering their own take on Los Angeles city life.

Hollywood

Hollywood Boulevard includes the famous Walk of Fame that provides just such an opportunity, with a more detailed examination of the city’s celebrity links available close by in Grauman’s Chinese Theatre or Wax Museum.

For those keen on catching a glimpse of how the ‘other half’ live, a trip to either Malibu or Beverly Hills may also allow one to catch a glimpse of some of the opulent stars in the flesh. For those keen on some accompanying commentary on their trip, competitive tours are available for budgeting tourists with an eye for a deal.

Entertainment

In terms of entertainment, there’s plenty on offer and all made inexpensively accessible by the excellent subway system. Only those aged over 21 with identification can expect to get involved in the energetic nightlife scene – a door policy that is strictly abided by in every single club, bar or disco.

In terms of food, there is scarcely a better place than Los Angeles to sample the wealth of American delicacies on offer at one of the city’s many chain and independent eateries. However, for a sample of some international dishes, there is little better or cheaper way to do so than in one of the various ethnic districts.

Relaxing

Of course for many there will undoubtedly be a desire to relax on one of the city’s beaches or parks. Griffin Park is the second largest park in the country offering a great opportunity to experience some nature that provides a pleasant contrast to the overwhelming hubbub of the cityscape itself.

Conversely, the warm allure of Long Beach’s golden sands, or the seductive lap of waves at the more up-market Malibu Beach may be too much to resist for the weary backpacker. Santa Monica Beach, Paradise Cove and Redondo beaches are just some of the many others on offer.

Before settling down and becoming a copywriter for HostelBookers. Paul Scottyn did a backpacking tour of U.S.A, he checked out a variety of the country’s budget accommodation, including a number of most Los Angeles hostels.

Los Angeles / Author: Paul Scottyn

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