Metropolitianmindset

I’m a ride-or-die New Yorker—grew up here. This city is in my blood. There’s always something going on, and boredom simply doesn’t exist here. The chaos, the buzz, the energy—it’s my vibe. Sure, it can get overwhelming, and there are definitely places I avoid (looking at you, Penn Station and 42nd Street), mostly because they’re packed with tourists and pure chaos. But if you’ve got the money, you can carve out a peaceful little bubble for yourself in neighborhoods like Tribeca, the Upper West Side, or the West Village. Those spots are calm & charming.

For the longest time, I never thought I could live anywhere else in the U.S. But something about LA always lingered in the back of my mind—those palm-lined streets, the hills, the laid-back vibe. I finally made the trip out there for the first time, and wow… it hit different.

I spent five days in LA, mostly exploring solo, but luckily one of my friends who lives there played tour guide too. From the moment I landed, I felt the shift in energy. It’s softer, calmer—but still alive with hustle. That signature California pink — it’s everywhere, and it’s absolutely stunning. I couldn’t believe how much I was loving it. I’ve never had anything against pink, but as someone whose wardrobe is basically all black, being surrounded by so much color actually made me want to add a little brightness to my own fits. The sunsets were next-level beautiful, and I was completely captivated by the dreamy homes tucked into every corner — each one more charming than the last.

As someone who’s big into wellness, LA seriously delivered. Smoothie bars, juice spots, healthy cafes—you name it. I think Urth Caffé was my favorite; way better than Erewhon in my opinion (sorry not sorry). I loved walking through the Arts District and Silver Lake—so many cute boutiques to discover. And West Hollywood? A total vibe. I could stroll down Melrose and browse shops for hours.

But the hikes? The hikes stole my heart. The views were absolutely breathtaking. I work out regularly, but I don’t hike much, so let’s just say those trails humbled me real quick—but in the best way. My legs were burning.

Culver City surprised me—it gave major Brooklyn energy, in the best possible way. I skipped most of the big tourist stuff (except for Griffith Observatory and a quick drive past the Hollywood Walk of Fame). I didn’t feel the need to linger in the Times Square of LA, if you know what I mean.

I even did a beach day in Santa Monica and Venice. I’m not usually a beach person, but I figured, when in LA… And I’m glad I did.

I walked a ton—within neighborhoods at least. But when it came time to jump between areas, yeah, I had to hop in a car. LA isn’t exactly walkable the way New York is. Oh, and the people? Super friendly. Like… almost too friendly. They’ll talk your ear off just because—and I guess when you’re living in year-round sunshine, it’s hard not to be in a good mood.

LA feels like a softer life. Slower pace. Beautiful views. It’s not a place I see myself settling down in full-time, but I’m definitely manifesting a life where I can be my own boss, work on my own schedule, and escape the brutal NYC winters for some West Coast sunshine. A little East Coast grit, a little West Coast glow—that’s the dream.