Need Tips for LA and San Diego

[js2913]

Hi, I'm an exchange student from Europe planning a trip to LA and SD at the end of March. Can anyone give me some travel tips?

1. Weather-wise does it rain a lot during that time of year?
2. Ideas on what to do in both LA and SD? I am planning on doing the touristy stuff, e.g disney and universal, zoo, and sea world, but beyond that, i'm clueless
4. In addition to the zoo, is the wild life animal park worth visiting?
5. ANY other things you can help out would be great...e.g. tips on saving $$, etc.

MANY THANKS!!!

[lwallen]

By the end of March southern California's rainy season will be over. The weather will start being warm by then. The thing to keep in mind is that the farther away from the ocean that you get, the hotter it's going to get. And the change happens rather suddenly.

I haven't been to the wildlife park personally, but I've heard people say that they enjoy it.
Some other things to see:
1. Coronado Island in San Diego. It's somewhat touristy, but yet still nice.
2. If you like Legos, Legoland is located in Carlsbad (about 30 to 45 minutes north of San Diego proper - about 1/3 of the way from San Diego to LA).

[Hosteltraveler]

In Los Angeles there is of course Hollywood and the other big draw is the unique beach communities like Venice Beach (where the doors and Jim Morrison used to live) Venice beach also has just a couple of blocks from the beach a communites of houses on canals (hence the name) but surprisingly, very few people check it out cause they do not know it exsists.

In San Diego there is a beautiful place3 called La Jolla (the gem in spanish) and there is alot happening in the gas lamp district (downtown)

Hostels are the cheapest way to go and there are some great ones in LA (in Hollywood and the beaches) Here is a map of Los Angeles hostels:



That site is called Twizi.com and they have maps, photos and even virtual tours of the hostels in Los Angeles (and San Diego)

Have a great trip!

[loustars14]

I live in both San Diego and the LA area. In San Diego, there are the beaches, of course, there is Mission Beach which has a little amusement park on the boardwalk. But then there is La Jolla, north that is a bit more ritzy, but is also very nice. Also go and check out Old Town San Diego, which will giove you a bit of history of San Diego but there are also other little shops and stuff there. And if you're old enough, downtown is always fun, there are loads of bars and stuff, which I have never been able to experience but, I've heard that they are pretty good. And Pacific Beach, or as the locals say PB is fun too, there are lots of bars and shops there. Then there is Sea World, which is fun, you'll only need a day there. And you have to go to the World Famous San Diego Zoo! I haven't been there in a while but from what I remember, it was loads of fun! And I can't remember the last time I went to the Wild Animal Park, but I think it's a bit more interactive then the zoo.
And in LA, there is Hollywood, with Sunset Blvd. and Hollywood Blvd. you'll see lots of interesting people, but it's definitly worth the trip. And Rodeo Dr. if you can afford it, but if not it's still fun to look around. One of my favorite places in LA is downtown LA, called the garment/fashion district. There you can find practically anything you need for cheap, all knock-offs of course, but it's fun! Santa Monica has shopping and the beach and a huge ferris wheel which is always fun! Oh and also in the downtown area, there is China town, Little Tokyo and a bunch of other places like that. I haven't been to them yet, but if you have time it might be fun.
Weather wise, both SD an LA should be ending their rainy season, but if we actually do get rain for some reason, then it might rain a bit. But also be careful when traveling in LA, it can be a bit sketch at night and in some parts of SD. I haven't had any problems, but just be on the safe side. And I'm not gonna lie, the public transportation here sucks major, so if you can take the train or bus, cause it's a lot cheaper then a cab. But I think that's about it!! Hope you have a great time!!

[am91962]

If your under 21, you have to cross the border and go party in TJ (Tijuana). Just be careful, the cops sit across the border waiting for underage drunks. If you go to TJ make sure to take an extra $20 to bribe the police and/or bouncer.

[JustAGirl]

I would visit Disneyland for sure and the beach in San Diego (Del Mar or La Jolla). Be sure to check the tides (listed in the newspaper), looking for minus tides and some great tidepools! Generally the weather is very nice this time of year with some occasional rain (April showers).

Yes, the Wild Animal Park is definitely worth a visit--and both the L.A. and San Diego zoos are world class!

Good way to save money is to picnic!