Los Angeles

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Los Angeles is March to May or September to November, when temperatures are warm but not oppressive and crowds are thinner than peak summer. June through August brings reliable sunshine but also heavy traffic, inflated hotel prices, and the infamous 'June Gloom' marine layer that keeps mornings overcast along the coast. December and January can be surprisingly pleasant with mild temperatures, though occasional rain is possible. Avoid major holiday weekends if you're sensitive to traffic — LA's freeways can grind to a complete standstill.

Getting around

Los Angeles is notoriously car-centric, and renting a car or using rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft is the most practical way to get around. The Metro system has improved significantly — the B Line (Red) connects Hollywood to Downtown, and the E Line (Expo) runs from Downtown to Santa Monica — but coverage remains limited compared to other major cities. The Dash minibuses are useful for short hops within neighbourhoods. Parking can be expensive and confusing with street-cleaning rules, so always read signs carefully. For airport transfers, the FlyAway bus from LAX to Union Station is cheap and reliable. Cycling is viable in flat areas like Venice and Santa Monica, with dedicated bike paths along the beach.