Los Angeles …an international center that hasn’t forgotten how to play

Los Angeles is one of those cities that’s so often discussed, debated, picked apart or praised (sometimes in the same sentence) that its reputation always precedes itself. But what is the real LA? Is it mansions in the hills, bikini-clad rollerbladers, film sets and studios?

It’s a city that boasts over 300 days of sun each year, with year-round temperatures averaging between the high 60s and low 80s. It’s a place where the lush Santa Monica Mountains stretch east-west next to the San Fernando Valley, where laid-back beach communities (Hermosa, Redondo) completely disregard the bustling city behind them. It only makes sense that such a city would induce a certain level of euphoria and eclectic behavior.

Seriously, with such gorgeous, varied surroundings, the people of LA—for as much as they love, ahem, need, their BMW 5 Series to traverse the sprawling, highway-connected city—always seem to be surfing, biking, boating, blading, skating or dining, drinking or shopping outdoors.

Of course, film, TV and music are still a major draw here. You can walk into a Starbucks and read at least ten screenplays-in-progress, you can party with young stars on the Strip and you can shop Rodeo and the Grove until you literally drop. Yet to say that LA is only for the business of show is to ignore the distinct, diverse cultures, fabulous food, aerospace business, international trade and historic landmarks.

An international urban center with beach, mountains and valleys? It’s definitely worth talking about.

Apartments for rent in Los Angeles