Nonrev Correspondent - Los Angeles

While I don't know any movie stars, I do know where you can meet a famous mouse or watch a TV show being taped.
So if you're planning a visit to Los Angeles, or just find yourself in town on layover, drop me a line in the forum.

To get a sampling of some of the entertainment and recreation in 'The City Of Angels', read my Los Angeles travel article. However before venturing out, check the websites to make sure all the information is current. After all, things in L.A. are known to move around.

<a href="http://www.nonrev.net/articles/losangeles/index.htm" target="_blank">http://www.nonrev.net/articles/losangeles/index.htm</A>

Keep'em flying

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[This message was edited by Migflanker on May 26, 2002 at 02:29 PM.]

A replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer can soon be seen touring parts of the U.S. The tour is just one of the many events marking the 100th anniversary of the Wright Brothers' first flight. The tour kicks off Sept 26, 2002 in L.A.
For tour schedule see www.flight100.org/ click on 'Campaign Programs'. If you are in the L.A. area and want to see the Flyer before it embarks on its national tour contact Marilyn Ramsey (310) 725-6728 to arrange a group tour. The Flyer is located in the Federal Building FAA Western-Pacific Regional Office in Hawthorne, Cal. (approximately five miles south of LAX)

The Wright Flyer replica was built by the L.A. chapter of the American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics as part of their project to build a modern (flyable) representation of the plane. The replica was subjected to wind tunnel tests conducted at the NASA Ames Research Center.(photo below) Data from the tests is now being used in the construction of a second, modified for safety and stability, 1903 Wright Flyer.
If you would like to help in the construction (in El Segundo, Cal.) contact Marilyn Ramsey at (310) 725-6728 or email her at marilyn.ramsey@wrightflyer.org

For information on other Wright Brothers centennial events, including a big 5 day celebration in Kill Devil Hills, N. C. see www.centennialofflight.gov.
Photo of the wind tunnel test was provided by Marilyn Ramsey

1903 Wright Flyer Specifications
Height 8'1"
Weight 650 lbs., empty
825 lbs., gross
Wingspan 40' 4"
Powerplant Revmaster 40hp, dual ignition
Propellers 2 @ 8' 6" dia.
Top speed approx. 30mph

Keep'em flying


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[This message was edited by Migflanker on August 06, 2002 at 01:29 PM.]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Vicki:
Hi, can you please let me know when the Californian school holidays are for 2003?

Thanks </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Hi Vicki
In LA most school(K-12) holidays are only one day and so probably wouldn't interfere with your travel plans.
Major school breaks 2003
<UL TYPE=SQUARE>
Christmas break- Dec. 23, 02 - Jan. 12, 03
Easter/Spring break- April 14-18
Summer break-June 23-Sept 7[/list]
Also some LA schools are on yearround schedules, so there's always kids 'off track'. Vicki I'm guessing you're trying to figure out when the attendance will be relatively low at the theme parks. Generally speaking the slow season is mid-September-mid November(excluding the week around Halloween) and mid January-March. If you need a detailed school schedule let me know, I know a few kids that know EVERY single day off. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emotic...on_biggrin.gif

Keep'em flying

Thanks for letting me know the school breaks. Yes, we are thinking of going over during the first half of next year - we last went over in 1997 (Disneyland/San Diego/Grand Canyon). Am thinking of perhaps going back to Disneyland/Universal Studios then maybe up to San Francisco, Yosemite NP - any suggestions?? Unfortunately for me the exchange rate is pretty bad at the moment.

Ouch http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif Just looked up the exchange rate, we are definately going to have to find you some discounts. Give me an idea of your interests, something you did on your last visit you just loved, and a time frame (two weeks?) That'll help narrow things down. In the mean time here's a link to Universal, www.universalstudioshollywood.com this will give you an idea of what's new at the park.

Keep'em flying

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Its a great exchange rate for you guys travelling over here!!

Last time we were over there we had 3 weeks and went to Disneyland, Anaheim, San Diego then out to Scottsdale, Flagstaff, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Las Vegas and back to LA. It was all great particularly the Grand Canyon and of course, Disneyland, Seaworld and Universal Studios. It was one of those perfect holidays where everything goes smoothly; flights, weather etc. We're tossing around a few ideas at the moment but would probably have about 10 days/2 weeks. Thanks for your help, regards Vicki

Hi Vicki
Since you loved the Grand Canyon my first suggestion is Yosemite. www.yosemitepark.com Yosemite is about 300 miles north of L.A. and trust me it is spectacular. Half Dome, El Capitan, the waterfalls even with the lighter water flow during the winter months, and the giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove are just all so beautiful. A great wintertime bonus- rock scrambling at the base of one of the waterfalls. I don't know if you ski but Yosemite Park during the winter months usually has enough snow for downhill and cross-country skiing, 85% of the runs are designed for beginning and intermediate skiers. However if you need additional info I'll have to check around, as my ski knowledge is limited to sitting by the fire and waving as the skiers go traipsing off. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif BTW there is lodging in the park, but we always stay outside Yosemite where they have supermarkets. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

San Francisco/Napa Valley. San Francisco is a great city and has a completely different feel from L.A. and trust me, you can have a very enjoyable time visiting the Napa Valley wine country. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif You might drop a line to Carl, the San Francisco corr., I'm sure he'll have a lot of ideas on things to do in the bay area.

Driving L.A./San Francisco. Consider taking hwy1 one way. It's a longer drive than I-5 but well worth it. On the way consider stopping off in Morro Bay and doing some siteseeing. And definitely stop off at Hearst's Castle. www.hearstcastle.com If you are not familiar with the name William Randolph Hearst, you might be familiar with the movie 'Citizen Kane', many believe Kane and his castle Xanadu are based on Hearst and his castle in San Simeon. Definately stop and take one of the tours. I recommend tour 1. Now usually we stay in Morro Bay, but a friend has recommended a place in Cambria (better view and an airline rate) which we hope to visit over the holidays, so I'll get back to you with a hotel recommendation.

In L.A. in addition to Disneyland and Universal you might add the Getty Museum www.getty.edu and a visit to a game show <a href="http://tvtix.com" target="_blank">http://tvtix.com</A> Who knows, you might answer the bonus question and win a trip to Australia. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emotic...on_biggrin.gif
Have fun and if I can be of any more help let me know.

Keep'em flying


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Hi Vicki
I just remembered, since your last visit a new Disney theme park "Disney's California Adventure' has opened. The new 55-acre park celebrates the California experience and is right next door to Disneyland. www.Disneyland.com
Also if you love roller coasters, you might want to check out Six Flags Magic Mountain. Four of the coasters are listed in the Guinness Book of World Records. <a href="http://www.sixflags.com" target="_blank">http://www.sixflags.com</A>

Also once you've decided on dates I can narrow in on some special events? How do you feel about coming nose to nose with a migrating California Gray whale? http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emotic...on_biggrin.gif http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emotic...on_biggrin.gif

Keep'em flying

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Thanks again; we like your idea of driving LA to SF and to Yosemite and will plan our trip around that. We are also thinking we might come via Hawaii for 3 nights.
As to when.....thats the hard one! We were thinking of coming a couple of days before our school holidays next April so our kids don't have to miss too much school but unfortunately I have just found out our holidays start on 14th April and I'd rather not be there during the school holidays over there. The other option is in our holidays that start at the end of September which seems, and is, ages away!
Nose to nose with the Californian grey whale might be just a little too close for me unless there is glass in between! See you.

Would you like to be in a movie???
Universal Studios is now shooting the movie "SEABISCUIT". The movie stars Tobey Maguire, Jeff Bridges, William H. Macy and horse racing legends Chris McCarron & Gary Stevens.
You would be an unpaid extra and be part of recreating many of the world's most famous horse races.

Two filming locations to choose from:
<UL TYPE=SQUARE>
Lexington, Kentucky-Keeneland Race Track-Sunday, Nov. 17th, 8 AM until 5:30 PM

Los Angeles, Cal.-Santa Anita Race Track-Saturday, Dec., 7th and Friday, Dec., 13th,
8 AM until 5:30 PM

Please be prepared to stay the whole day. Films need 'continuity", and one shot needs to match the other. [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img][/list]

For more information and to register see
<a href="http://beinamovie.com" target="_blank">http://beinamovie.com</A>
See you in the movies! [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif[/img]


Keep'em flying

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[This message was edited by Migflanker on October 16, 2002 at 01:20 PM.]

So you're planning a visit to L.A. and you want to see some movie stars. Where do you go? Now to be honest my best star sightings have just kinda happened. I'm sitting in traffic my eyes wander over to the car idling in the next lane and well, hello Jack!http://www.stopstart.freeserve.co.uk/smilie/car.gif
However since you can't always count on bumper-to-bumper traffic to flush out your quarry, there are ways to increase your chances at seeing the stars.
My list of star spotting locations:
<UL TYPE=SQUARE>
Farmers' Market- Sunday mornings, early. Uh-huh, right there between the free-range chicken and the organically grown tomatoes you might see one of your favorite stars.

Gelson's Markets (supermarkets, Century City-Pacific Palisades-West Hollywood locations)
Just be careful, celebrities are notoriously bad shopping cart drivers. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif

Century City Mall-Melrose Blvd.-Robertson Blvd
While window-shopping you can sometimes spot a few friends.

Previews-Premieres-Award Shows
Personally I don't recommend this, too many people, parking is terrible and you can't really see a lot with all the bright lights and cameras. Plus, none of the stars ever carry pens and once they get yours, forget it!

Pink's- hot dog stand near the corner of Melrose & La Brea, famous for their chili dogs.
If the signed photos on the walls are any indication, movie stars eat here all the time. Of course all those 8x 10's could be downloaded from the internet, but those signatures look really genuine to me.

Civil and Criminal Courts
Check the docket to see who's appearing.
You can completely forget about autographs here.[/list]
Now if all this fails and you just have to see stars on your visit, try the Griffith Observatory. You can see stars there every night.

A light-hearted look at Tinsel Town, if I can help with touring advise just ask.

Keep'em flying

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[This message was edited by Migflanker on March 15, 2003 at 11:07 AM.]

Los Angeles from fine art to neon there's a museum for everyone.
Secret- Many of the museums waive their fees on certain days, you don't even have to knock three times and give the secret password.

<UL TYPE=SQUARE>
Autry Museum of Western Heritage www.autry-museum.org/
Free: Thursday, 4-8pm

George C. Page Museum/La Brea Tar Pits www.tarpits.org
Free: 1st Tuesday of the month

The Getty Center (A personal favorite)http://www.gettyedu/
Free, parking $5 a car

Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens <a href="http://www.huntington.org/" target="_blank">http://www.huntington.org/</A>
Free: 1st Thursday of the month

Museum of Neon Art
Free: 2nd Thursday of the month 5-8pm

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
www.nhm.org
Free: 1st Tuesday of the month[/list]

Have fun!

Keep'em flying

http://www.nonrev.net/correspondents...migflanker.jpg

Thank you so much for your messages. I just stumbled upon this site and am very happy to have found it. We are planning a vacation to L.A. in July and I have appreciated your info.

Julie

Hi Julie
Just stumbled on us huh; I knew those stairs were dangerous. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emotic...on_biggrin.gif
Glad to hear you found the L.A. posts helpful in planning your trip. Have fun out here in the City of Angels, and don't forget to wear your sunglasses. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Keep'em flying

http://www.nonrev.net/correspondents...migflanker.jpg

We decided to take the leap and go for the west coast, L.A. We only have 2 days so I would like to stay in an area which is convenient to the tourist stuff. Could you recommend what area to stay in: Beverly Hills & Westwood? Hollywood?

We would like to see: Mann's Chinese Theater, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip. Rodeo Drive, to name a few. And where is the place they do the Oscars?

I did read your article, I will be sure to bring the sunglasses http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif and wave bye http://www.stopstart.freeserve.co.uk/smilie/wave2.gif

~Luv2fly

So you decided on L.A., wise choice. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif As far as an area close to "tourist stuff", L.A. is so spread out it's hard to suggest a area close to everything. Since you have teenagers I'll assume you'll want to visit at least one theme park, so I'll go with the Universal City area (Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk). This location offers you the advantage of a free shuttle running between the park and nearby hotels, which frees you up to drive over to Rodeo and browse, while the teenagers are off visting Shrek, the Terminator and Jurassic Park for the third time. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif Hotels- the Sheraton Universal and the Hilton Universal Towers are within walking distance while the Beverly Garland Holiday Inn <a href="http://www.beverlygarland.com/" target="_blank">http://www.beverlygarland.com/</A> is a little further away, it is however cheaper. I just talked to the Holiday Inn (818-980-8000) and they quoted me a $75 airline rate for July 22nd and 23rd, parking $9 a day.

The Oscars are held at the Kodak Theatre, <a href="http://www.kodaktheatre.com/" target="_blank">http://www.kodaktheatre.com/</A> which is in the Hollywood & Highland entertainment complex.
<a href="http://www.hollywoodandhighland.com/home.html" target="_blank">http://www.hollywoodandhighland.com/home.html</A>
Mann's Chinese is nearby and the Walk of Fame is under foot http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif Here's a site <a href="http://www.seeingstars.com/Immortalized/WalkOfFameStars.shtml" target="_blank">http://www.seeingstars.com/Immortalized/Wa...FameStars.shtml</A> with a few star locations; I wouldn't want you wandering around, eyes down, bumping into street signs. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emotic...on_biggrin.gif

BTW, parking can be a problem on Hollywood Blvd. When I go down there I usually park on residential streets and walk, however since you don't have time to fool around, I suggest you park in the parking garage at the complex. The site lists parking rates as $2.00 for 4 hours with validation.

If I can be of more help let me know. Have fun and definitely wear your sunglasses http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif.

Keep'em flying

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[This message was edited by Migflanker on July 19, 2003 at 02:51 PM.]

Thanks for all the info and the links http://www.stopstart.freeserve.co.uk/smilie/thumbs.gif

~Luv2fly~ http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

Migflanker,

Just wanted to let you know that my family did get to LA. It was a wonderful trip, I did keep the sunglasses on http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif We did run out of time however, we did get in Universal Studios...the backstage tour was GREAT, we did do Rodeo Drive :-) Hollywood Walk of Fame, Mann's Theatre, even got to see a movie in the famous theatre :-) Saw the Hollywood sign and drove around Hollywood, stopped by the beach. We were quite busy....had fabulous weather too :-)

Your town is lovely and exciting http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

http://www.stopstart.freeserve.co.uk/smilie/wave2.gif

Luv2fly, sounds like you packed a lot into a few days. Glad to hear you had a wonderful time. http://www.stopstart.freeserve.co.uk/smilie/thumbs.gif

Keep'em flying

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Lights, Cameras, Action

For those in or visting the L.A. area , news on two new movies, "Jump Shot" starring Nick Cannon, Forest Whitaker, Danny DeVito, Kim Basinger (Kim will probably not be in these scenes) and Kelsy Grammer will be filming in Northridge, and Norwalk, California, Feb. 19-Mar.06, 2005
and
"Akeelah & The Bee" starring Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett, Tony Shaloub (Monk) and Lauren "Keke" Palmer will be filming in Hollywood and Venice, California, Feb. 15-March 08, 2005, if interesting in being in either movie (yes, you'd be in crowd scenes) sign up at Be In A Movie
See you in the movies http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

Keep'em flying

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Tools Reply </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
hey there, this website is very cool. my screenname is rainpenrod...
i will check out your msgs and jokes now. Let my crew on the corner know I'm thinking of them .

Welcome aboard Buck-rainpenrod, I thought you'd like the place.

Universal truth--
No matter where you live, no matter what you do, some thngs are always true.
Life is an endless struggle full of frustrations and challenges, but eventually you will find a hairstyle you like... even in Tampa- Good luck! http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emotic...on_biggrin.gif

Keep'em flying

l.s.

Could you, or anybody else, advise me on the best flight to take from Europe to LAX? I will be traveling on the 28th of december.

Any idea on booking numbers?

Thank you for your answer.

Unfortunately there are probably hundreds of options on this one ...any chance you could narrow down the options .. like on which airline and/or from which european city, do you want direct to LAx or can you transit in the USE etc

Paul,

Thank you for your quick response.

We would like to fly to LAX, from amsterdam. We are thinking about flying
AMS-LHR-LAX. Problem is that I have no way of finding the availability for the flights, except for KLM. But even the figures on the KLM staff travel site are highly unaccurate

So if you could give me a hint on flights from LHR to LAX?

Other option could be TN021 CDG-LAX, maybe loads are low on this section of the flight?



<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by BRITSKI99:
Unfortunately there are probably hundreds of options on this one ...any chance you could narrow down the options .. like on which airline and/or from which european city, do you want direct to LAx or can you transit in the USE etc </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Welcome aboard D_Flash
Unfortunately I can't help you with the European end of your trip, (Paul is the man for that) However if you have any questions about the L.A. area, drop me a line....
and Flash, don't forget to bring your sunglasses. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

Keep'em flying

Migflanker,

I do have some questions about LA. We rented a RV to drive to San Fransisco, but will be staying in LA form 7-1 untill 12-1. Any good advise on a cheap hotel/hostel option? I would like to visit six flags, what would be the best part of town to stay and do some sightseeing without a car?

Thank you for your help!



<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Migflanker:
Welcome aboard D_Flash
Unfortunately I can't help you with the European end of your trip, (Paul is the man for that) However if you have any questions about the L.A. area, drop me a line....
and Flash, don't forget to bring your sunglasses. http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

Keep'em flying </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

D,
Had a quick look at the Res availabilities and most of the flights from London look busy on the 28th. The flights showing best availability to LAX on the 28th seem to be the AF flights from CDG. I cannot see the actuals for AF however as KL and AF are the same nowadays I'd guess that your staff travel office could give you those figures.
Rgds

Flash, L.A. is very spread out and the best way to see it is by car. In fact Magic Mountain is in Valencia, about 30 miles north of L.A., so if you're planning on spending a day or two there and then doing some other sightseeing, a car is definitely the way to go.
As far as a hotel, since you mentioned Magic Mountain, I'm assuming you want something nearby. Unfortunately I'm not familiar enough with the area and will have to ask around for a hotel recommendation.
Now around here when someone says they're going out to Magic Mountain, they mean http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif they're going to spend the day riding coasters.
My coaster expert lists his favorites as Scream, "X" and Riddler's Revenge.
Tip--If you plan on spending a second day at the Park purchase a "Twicket" (discounted ticket) before you leave the park.
Also lines can be long (1-2 hours) http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif, so as soon as the gates open head to the back of the park and work your way forward.
Six Flags-Magic Mountain

Keep'em flying

Cheers Guys,

Thank for the quick and helpful responses.

I just made reservations at a low budget place in west hollywood, the orbit hostel. I hope you did not hear to many bad stories about that one

And Paul, thank you for checking the reservations out. I might get back to you closer to my travelling date, very helpfull,. Are the virgin flights also fully booked?

Have a good weekend.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Migflanker:
Flash, L.A. is very spread out and the best way to see it is by car. In fact Magic Mountain is in Valencia, about 30 miles north of L.A., so if you're planning on spending a day or two there and then doing some other sightseeing, a car is definitely the way to go.
As far as a hotel, since you mentioned Magic Mountain, I'm assuming you want something nearby. Unfortunately I'm not familiar enough with the area and will have to ask around for a hotel recommendation.
Now around here when someone says they're going out to Magic Mountain, they mean http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif they're going to spend the day riding coasters.
My coaster expert lists his favorites as Scream, "X" and Riddler's Revenge.
Tip--If you plan on spending a second day at the Park purchase a "Twicket" (discounted ticket) before you leave the park.
Also lines can be long (1-2 hours) http://www.nonrev.net/infopop/emoticons/icon_eek.gif, so as soon as the gates open head to the back of the park and work your way forward.
Six Flags-Magic Mountain

Keep'em flying </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I'm not familiar with Orbit, but I found you some traveler's reviews on TripAdvisor.
The location is OK, you're on a bus route, just remember L.A. isn't known for its public transportation. Farmers Market and CBS-TV studios are "nearby", but you are some distance from the beach. One more thing, unless The Orbit offers tours, you'll definitely need a car to get out to Magic Mountain.

Keep'em flying