The sheer scale of LA - its detractors call it "nineteen suburbs in search of a city" - means that it really is difficult to get around without a car. Even though the traffic is often bumper-to-bumper, the freeways are the only way to cover long distances quickly. If you're driving yourself, avoid traveling at rush hours and phone ahead for directions whenever possible. Otherwise, try to relax on the fastest alternative, express buses .

Some people are surprised to find sidewalks in LA, let alone pedestrians, but within districts such as downtown, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Beverly Hills and central Hollywood, walking is the best way to explore.

California
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Los Angeles
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Los Angeles travel guide

Los Angeles
The City
Arriving
Information
City transport
Public transportation
Major bus routes
Cycling
Eating
Eating Downtown
West LA eating
Hollywood eating
Disneyland eating
San Gabriel, San Fernando eating
Nightlife
Bars, pubs

More at
Los Angeles travel guide

San Diego
Getting around and info
Cafes, restaurants
Nightlife

Anza-Borrego Desert
Balboa Park

Downtown and Coronado
Hillcrest, Ocean Beach, Point Loma
Mission bay, Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, La Jolla

More at
San Diego travel  guide