If you are looking forward to taking that snowy sleigh ride or hiking up a snow covered hill in search of the perfect Christmas tree, you may want to holiday somewhere else. But if super awesome parades, concerts and light shows make your Christmas perfect, then Christmas in Los Angeles may be the ultimate holiday vacation spot for you!

Check out some of the festivities planned for this year.

December starts with the Los Angeles Harbor Holiday Afloat Parade. Spectators will see beautifully lighted sailboats and other water crafts cruise the waterfront in this exciting parade. For over 50 years, these decorated boats have kept this tradition and brought joy to old and young alike. There are free viewpoints all along the parade route, or you can get an awesome view from the top of the Battleship Iowa for a fee ($20 adults, $10 kids) and enjoy cookies, hot cocoa, crafts and carolers. Santa even makes a surprise visit!

On December 5^th-6^th is the Angel City Chorale Holiday Concert and Sing-Along. This event is held at the Wilshire Methodist Church and features 160 members. Sing along to many of your favorite Christmas and Hanukkah classics and you are sure to be in the holiday spirit!

Also on the 5^th and 6^th is the Harvest Festival Original Art and Craft Show.  The event is located at the Fairplex in Pomona, and features over 24,000 original works of art. Gaze at beautiful handmade jewelry, purchase hand-pressed olive oil, or have something personalized while you wait. Those 12 and under are free, and adults can get $2 off if they bring a canned food item with them.

The Los Angeles Zoo holds a spectacular display called LA Zoo Lights. Here you can see some awesome LED displays involving the zoo animals. Though the actual animals will probably all be asleep, the LED versions will give you some whimsical and colorful displays to get you in the holiday spirit. Don’t miss out on these fantastic twinkly light displays. There are some special packages with discounts if you purchase early in the season, and there are some VIP packages which will allow you to skip the lines, and give you entry into a private lounge with hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer and some cocktails as well.

For something a little different, check out the Ukulele Christmas Orchestra. Head to the music center for a wonderful show of amateur musicians, or if you are 18 or older you can even participate. Bring your own ukulele and music stand and have some fun! All are welcome, even beginners, as long as you can strum in rhythm and play C,Em,F,D7 and G7 in order. Check it out!

On December 11^th the Walt Disney Concert Hall brings you the Festival of Carols. 110 fabulous singers will perform all your favorite carols sure to get you in the spirit. A visit with Santa follows the caroling.

There will be plenty more celebrations throughout the month as Christmas nears so keep an eye out for your favorites and enjoy Christmas time in Los Angeles.

Filed under: Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
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Perhaps it’s your first visit to the City of Angels. Or maybe you are a regular visitor, but have gotten stuck in the routine of visiting the same old places every time. Here are a few places you may not know exist, or just haven’t bothered to take the time to visit.

Runyon Canyon is a great place for those seeking adventure and the outdoors. Beautiful rocks, hidden trails and of course the famous Hollywood sign all await you. Here you will get an awesome view of the Griffith Observatory and the most amazing view of the city.

It is a great work out, and many use it in place of going to the gym. There are a few setbacks to keep an eye out for, such as loose dogs, coyotes, bobcats, rattlesnakes, and even a mountain lion once in a while.

For a totally different cinema experience, check out Hollywood Forever Cemetery’s movie nights. The cemetery features outdoor movies on Saturday and Sunday evenings, and you can catch horror flicks like Carrie and Psycho, along with classics like Back to the Future. The movies are projected on the white marble wall of the late Rudolph Valentino’s tomb for extra added creepiness.

Estate sales are a common thing in the area, and you never know what you may find at one. Homes of the wealthy hold these sales practically every weekend, and you will see some awesome property, fantastic views, and possibly find a trinket you really want. The homes are often for sale as well, if you are willing to pay the price.

Grab a bite to eat at a local “lunch truck” for something different. Previously known to be not the best choice for lunch, these trucks now offer gourmet lunch cuisine at extremely affordable prices.

Head to Zuma beach and avoid the busy boardwalks of the popular beaches. At Zuma you will be welcomed with white sand that stretches for two miles, sparkling clean water and beautiful surf. If you swim out far enough, you might be joined by a playful dolphin swimming by your side. You can also view the whales during the winter time when they being to migrate.

LA’s area beaches are awesome, great for people watching, and superb for sunning. However, if you want to avoid burning your feet on the lava-like sand, pass on searching for a parking space for what seems like hours on end, and forego the hike to the nearest bathroom, head to Vista Hermosa Natural Park. This beautiful little gem is the place to go to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for an afternoon. Beautiful greenery and native plants are great on the eyes. Check out the breathtaking views of the city of Los Angeles. The park is dog friendly so you can bring your friend with you. There is a wonderful kids play area, and plenty of open space to play. Throw your blanket under a shady tree and just relax.

Next time you visit LA you can be sure you will come away with some new memories, fantastic photos, and the knowledge that you can enjoy the city without being in the middle of it.

Filed under: Blog, Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
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Many people think of Los Angeles as the most glamorous place to live, when in reality there are probably some things that might make you think twice about moving there. Let’s start off with one of the big deal breakers…the traffic. Angelenos, as they are locally called, spend almost 3 days a year sitting in traffic. Three whole days.  It can take you an hour and a half just to drive 15 miles down the road. Whoever named it “rush hour” must have been on drugs.  LA has been awarded (cursed??) with the worst traffic in the US time and time again. So if you like to get in your car and quickly travel to your destination, you may not want to make this your future home.

What most people in the great city of angels do before they make it big, is wait. Wait for a call back. Wait for an audition. Wait for the promotion. Wait to someday be famous. If you are one of those lucky enough to make it to that wonderful status, you can spend your days dodging paparazzi, reading about yourself on the local tabloid, (probably total untruths), and throwing wild parties. If you haven’t yet made it to that point, you get to watch the “friends” you once had get slammed on the tabloids, and throw parties to which you aren’t even welcomed. Yes it all sounds very mean, but sadly it is true more times than not.

Living in Los Angeles is kind of like living in Neverland. You can never grow up. You can never tell people how old you REALLY are, nor can you ever change your appearance. The public will expect you to look the same way you did on the sitcom you did when you were a teenager or 20-something forever.

Dating in Los Angeles can also be extremely hard. If by chance you meet someone who is about to make it big or has already done so, they will assume you are just after the future fame and fortune they are going to receive. If the tables are turned and YOU are the fortunate one, you will be afraid that they are the ones after YOUR fortune and fame. It’s a vicious circle.

Pretty much everyone carries a small pooch in a bag, pouch, or somewhere on their person. This may be a strange sight, but it is a normal thing to the Angelenos. Just keep in mind when you see these small creatures, that they probably have better living quarters and perks than most of the humans you pass by.

When you awake in the morning thinking “Ugh, it’s going to rain today”, you will soon realize that it is just the smog that has not had a chance to burn off yet. Trust me, it will probably be a beautiful hot sunny day. Just not yet.

Yes, many have made it big in Los Angeles, and many still do. But it is not an easy road, and the stress you live with daily may not be worth the trip.

Filed under: Blog, Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in well known to be the busiest airport in the world. It has served the most passengers ever since the late 1990s, a whopping 92 million in 2011. As for the number of planes arriving and taking off? Chalk up 900,000 every year.

The Atlanta airport was named after William B. Hartsfield and Maynard Jackson, who were previously mayors of the city. Though the airport is a popular international destination, most of the traffic comes from domestic flights.

Atlanta has the perfect location for travelers going from east to west or north to south. Almost 60% of Hartsfield-Jackson’s flights are claimed by Delta Airlines. Delta has had a big part in helping the airport grow into what it is now. They work with SkyTeam partners including Air France and Korean Air to help connect the international flights. With so many more international flights coming through, the airport saw an expansion in 2012, and the Maynard H. Jackson International Terminal was opened.

There are 7 concourses making up the airport, and they are connected by an underground tunnel. This tunnel consists of a moving walkway that carries passengers, and also features a people-mover called the Plane Train. The airport is so large that it sometimes takes passengers up to 40 minutes to transfer between gates.

If you are a frequent flyer, you are sure to pass through Atlanta’s airport at some time in your life.

Arriving and Departing

Getting to and from the airport is not too difficult, as it is located about 15 minutes form the heart of Atlanta. There are dozens of taxis and shuttle buses to transport travelers, and the public train system is a very convenient option.

Renting a car couldn’t be easier at the car rental center. Since 2009 when it opened, the 10 major car rental companies have helped thousands get to their destination. They boast almost 10,000 parking spaces, and have a roadway that connects to all major highways.

Layovers, Delays and Transfers

If you find yourself stuck waiting at the airport for a length of time, don’t fret. Minute Suites, in Concourse B, will rent you a private room with a day bed, TV, and desk to get some last minute work done. You can also head to one of Delta’s Sky Clubs, located throughout the airport, and receive a day pass or just a one- time pass. Here you will find food, drinks and amenities. Hot showers are available at the clubs in concourse E and F.

Amenities

Atlanta’s airport won’t let you down when it comes to perks. Get your taste buds ready for something besides airport fast food, as the airport has local chefs and culinary experts offering you the best in dining options. Check out One Flew South, which has been called the best fine-dining airport restaurant in the US. Paschal’s Southern Cooking will give you a taste of the town, with some traditional fried chicken, catfish, and oysters.

Filed under: Blog, Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
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When asking people what to do or see in the Los Angeles area, most people will fill you in on Hollywood and all there is to do and see there. Hollywood is awesome, since it’s a great place to visit and there is definitely plenty to see. But after you are done star searching, where do you go next? Here are a few ideas to keep you busy on your next visit.

Echo Park is perfect if you are into music, culture and urban art. For awesome art shows, check out I AM 9 Bit. This 4500-sq. ft. gallery is perfect for art lovers or those who just want to check out the art scene.

Sage Vegan Bistro is perfect for those who love organic vegan dishes. Sandwiches, veggie burgers and much more are served in generous helpings. Check out Kind Kreme’s raw ice cream for a treat your taste buds will be craving again and again.

Dodger Stadium has been welcoming guests since 1962. If there’s not a game scheduled while you are there, you can look into the behind the scenes tour. Check out the press box, Dodger dugout, the Dugout Club and take a run on the field.

Another place to visit is Culver City. There are plenty of things here to see, activities to keep you entertained and plenty of good food.

The Museum of Jurassic Technology is not your every-day museum. Some even call it a “no” museum. It is strange, quirky, bizarre and definitely not for those who like to see just the facts, or have each display explained to them. If you are up for something way off the ordinary path, check it out.

If you are into plays, head to the Kirk Douglas Theatre. Since 2004, the theatre has been introducing local playwrights and showing their plays to the community.

Manhattan Beach is another hidden gem you may pass by. This is where beach volleyball began. Head to Sand Dune Park and see the 100 ft. high natural sand dune. Adults and kids alike love this natural feature, but take note that you will need reservations to check them out.

See some of your favorite aquatic creatures at the Roundhouse Aquarium, located at the end of the pier. Interaction is encouraged, and even though it is a small aquarium, there is plenty for you to see.

For some authentic Italian cuisine, head over to Mama D’s. The homemade ravioli, fresh baked bread and crispy thin crust pizzas will have your mouth watering as soon as they arrive.

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The LA convention center is the perfect place for your next exhibition, convention or trade show. Its central location is perfectly situated in the business and cultural heart of the city.

Since the center opened in 1971, it has received four renovations which included modernizing, expanding, and keeping the center fresh and updated. Over two million people visit the center every year, many of them to attend one of the 350 events that take place yearly.

The center boasts 720,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, 147,000 sq. ft. for meetings, and 64 meeting rooms. Presentations run smoothly in the 299-seat theatre, which offers rear screen projection.

Parking at the center is very generous, with room for 5,600 vehicles. Separate sections are available so that you can be close to the location of your event.

The LACC is an awesome set for filming TV, movies and commercials, and plenty have already had the privilege of filming here. TV shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Parks and Recreation, and Major Crimes were filmed here, as well as major motion pictures including Gone Girl, Interstellar and even Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!

Locations from all over the center have been used in filming shots. From the exterior to the parking garage, the lobbies, corridors and even the concession area all have that perfect quality for shooting a scene.

The center also has a green initiative and does its part to conserve energy, water, control waste and to recycle. From solar panels and LED lighting to low flush-facilities and water efficient kitchen appliances, the LACC is proud to be part of the battle to keep the earth green.

Visitors flock to the center for many different purposes. Business meetings and presentations, concerts, ceremonies and pageants are all held at the center. Some are open to the public, while others are invitation only. Some upcoming events at the center are the Special Olympics World Games, auditions for the TV show “the Voice”, the World of Dance tour, and the International Gem and Jewelry Show. If you are visiting the center for a business meeting or presentation, take time to check out one of the scheduled events while you are there. You can also check out LA Live, which is right by the center. Here you will find the STAPLES center, Microsoft Theatre, music venues, the Grammy Museum, and plenty of night clubs and restaurants.

Booking your event is a breeze with the professionals leading the way for you. Just let them know what your desires and needs are, and they will be sure to walk you through the process and set up the perfect event for you. Catering at the convention center is offered from Taste of L.A. They will help you set up the perfect breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner menu that will be sure to please all your guests.

Floor plans, virtual tours and much more can be viewed on their website so you can get an idea of what you want.

Whether you are attending an event at the center or throwing your own, you can be sure that attention to detail is the top priority for guests and hosts alike. Be sure to make a visit to the Los Angeles Convention Center a must on your next business trip to LA.

Filed under: Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
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Even business travelers sometimes want the best of the best. If you are traveling to New York and want to be pampered while you are there, check out one of these awesome hotels.

The Carlyle is a five-star haven where you can enjoy fantastic views of the city skyline from your private terrace. Relax in a boudoir chair or practice your skills on the grand piano. Each room has its own personal decor, and the artwork on the walls is truly magnificent. A fitness center and spa are available if you need to unwind, or you can request an in-room massage to de-stress before the big meeting. There are many boutiques on site for your shopping desires. Your pet can also join you here for the best of services, such as beds, bowls, snacks and Fiji water. Walking service is also available.

The Mandarin Oriental is located at the top of the Time Warner Center, just across from Central Park. Gaze at the park from your suite, and enjoy the spectacular New York skyline at its finest. The five-star spa includes a 75-foot lap pool, Thai yoga suite and an Oriental tea lounge. The VIP Spa suite is an oasis for couples who want to be pampered and relax.

St. Regis New York will provide you with 24-hour butler service, a full breakfast, and a bottle of champagne. The silk wall coverings and beautiful furnishings make each room exquisite. Enjoy an elegant dinner in one of the renowned restaurants, or sip a cocktail in the King Cole Bar. Your personal trainer will give you pointers at the fitness center, or you can just indulge at the spa with a customized treatment.

The New York Palace gives guests a choice of accommodation, ranging from Superior, to Club and the Towers. You may also choose a Penthouse triplex suite. The penthouse suite includes a rooftop terrace for amazing city views. The marble bathrooms will make you feel totally indulged, while the art work will impress you. Complimentary house car service will make your outings stress-free, and the concierge will help you to plan your stay to perfection.

The Plaza Hotel may be the most luxurious hotel in all of New York. The immaculate white glove service will immediately let you know you will be treated like royalty. The tranquility garden with its reflecting pools is a great place to start your stay. The chandeliers and exquisite artwork in the rooms are designed especially for each room. Each room has an iPad, so you can order room service, print boarding passes, and organize your stay. Unwind at the champagne bar, or enjoy dinner in one of the famous restaurants.

Who says business travel has to be all work and no play? Why not get some relaxation time in and treat yourself to a little pampering.

Filed under: Blog, Points of Interest by Michelle Gushard
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