Falling In Love with Venice Beach and Los Angeles
I enjoyed Los Angeles more than I ever expected. This was my third trip this year to LA, but the first time I rented a car and explored. I have to say I fell in love. I always imagine LA like an uncontrollable beast, but it wasn’t like that at all.
Venice Beach in Los Angeles
Sure, there’s the traffic and the millions of people, and the smog and the busyness that makes up the lives of everyone I know in LA. But this time I got to feel the city. I finally understand why all these people live in LA. I was surprised to discover the kindness I experienced with the drivers as I drove around. Everyone I talked to was friendly and kind. This was unexpected and really great. The traffic wasn’t all that bad at the times I was driving around.
I started my exploring in the Burbank area. I went to a great restaurant called Poquito Mas. It was all that I could have asked for. Laid back atmosphere, great food, attractive location. I did some shopping at the mall and finished by picking up some dinner at Whole Foods and spending the night with friends in Encino. The next day I was supposed to hang out with my friend Patrick but he was sick. I asked him “What would you do if you had a free day in LA and a credit card?”
“Go to Venice Beach!” was his reply.
So I went to Venice Beach. I paid $10 to park because I have some challenges walking long distances and I wanted to save my energy.
Renting Bicycles – Venice Beach
Los Angeles, California
I was drawn to a bike shop and the very cute surfer dude said, “Are you ready to party?” as I walked by. I realized I was. I was intrigued by the idea of renting a bike but I was also hungry so I went to lunch at a cafe overlooking the freaks, weirdos, and tourists walking along Venice Beach. I had a fantastic Cobb Salad.
After lunch I went back to the bike store and rented a bicycle. I have to admit, I thought I would last about 15 minutes, but at least I could experience a little bit of bike riding. I had the bike for 3 hours. I rode up and down the boardwalk. I rode on the trails by the beach, I felt so free. I had the feeling that anything was possible. I was exploring and I didn’t have to think about what anyone needed. I could go right when I wanted
Inside the restaurant
Venice Beach, Los Angeles, CA
to go right and I could stop when I wanted to stop. It was an amazing feeling. I was instantly rejuvenated and refreshed. I was free to be curious about my own desires. I realized my needs and wants were humble.
I went all the way down to the end in both directions. When I went all the way to the north, I found a great place to get a Henna tattoo. I kept wanting to get a tattoo while I was there. I wanted
My henna tattoo
Venice Beach, CA
Tarot Card Reading
Venice Beach, Los Angeles CA
to do something a little crazy. I felt so incredibly free. I can’t tell you the last time I was on vacation by myself in a city other than my own. It was an explorer’s dream. I bought presents for my kids. A fantastic man with a shopping cart and ice-cold water showed up when I was thirsty, twice. It was as if he could read my mind. He charged a dollar for ice-cold water. I paid him double. I got a massage from a great guy from China who’s girlfriend is moving to join him here in December. I had a tarot reading.
With my GPS, I could go anywhere and navigate the complex maze of highways. I probably spent $120 at Venice Beach but it made me feel like a queen. Every need was taken care of and freedom was possible. As I left, I wondered if I should come back again the next day. I hadn’t felt that free in a long time. It was invigorating.
