Los Angeles Archives - The Culture Mom

16May

Exploring Southern California with CityPASS

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Disneyland - Sleeping Beauty Castle copy

Southern California is a place that demands exploration. It's got great weather, amazing beaches, good shopping, beautiful people and of course, amusement parks. My 13 year-old and I have loved our various visits to the region, always bonding over new experiences and the most beautiful scenery in America. She's a Disney kid, too, so Disneyland has always had particular appeal, but the issue is typically cost and time. When we've gone to Los Angeles, Long Beach or San Diego in the past, we haven't had the time to squeeze Disney and the other parks in, Read More

13Mar

My 36 Hour Trip to L.A.

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Early last week I was invited to Los Angeles for a set visit on one of my favorite TV shows (more on that later!). Despite the fact that we are in the midst of renovations on our home, I'm crazed with work and I'm hosting my daughter's Bat Mitzvah in less that two weeks (did I just say that?), I replied positively. I flew out last night at 6:30pm and I arrive back home tomorrow around 7am. Yes, I will have been gone approximately 36 hours. From NY - L.A. and back... in the blink of an eye. Some people may think that I was crazy to leave everything Read More

02Dec

Hotel Review: The Garland in North Hollywood

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My daughter and I just got back from a stay at The Garland in North Hollywood. Billed as "Hollywood Glamour Meet Retro-Chic," the hotel is undergoing a massive renovation to achieve this image and it was clear from what has been completed that they're on their way. This family-owned establishment was named after the late Beverly Garland, a famous film and TV actress. She was responsible for its interior décor, which is a retro-modern oasis surrounded by gardens and palm tress. The result is quintessential Hollywood, with pictures of film stars Read More

02Dec

Repost: 5 Tips for a Family Day at Universal Studios Hollywood

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(This article appeared on MiniTime today: http://www.minitime.com/trip-tips/5-Tips-for-a-Family-Day-at-Universal-Studios-Hollywood-article) If you’re a movie buff and are headed to Universal Studios Hollywood this holiday season with the family, you’re in for a real treat. But if you have time to research the park, it can be worthwhile as time can really fly during a visit and can feel quite overwhelming. There are ways to navigate the park to improve your visit, especially when traveling with children. That’s why we have a list of five tips Read More

28Feb

L.A. Family Fun Tip: The Zimmer Children’s Museum

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The Zimmer Children’s Museum is a non-profit cultural institution located on Museum Row in Los Angeles, featuring hands-on exhibits for children 0-8 to explore BIG IDEAS in creative and inspiring settings. The Zimmer is also the only museum dedicated specifically to kids and families in Los Angeles. An interactive space for learning, play, imagination, and exploration, our exhibits, some of which have Jewish themes, offer hours of fun and discovery. Through the power of play, children will learn about human values such as respect for others, Read More

16Mar

Guest Post: Life Is Sweet…If I Abandon My Cynical Outlook

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There’s enough going on in the world these days to make even the calmest person’s blood pressure skyrocket. The Japanese earthquakes and tsunami, a collapsing global economy, revolutions in the Middle East, America fighting two wars and more. When I can’t watch the news anymore because it’s just too disturbing, I take a very deep breath and focus on what I have to be thankful for and what I can do to help those in need. Once I became a mom, I struggled to watch the news. It upset me in a way it never had before. I’ve talked with other moms who have Read More

13Jan

Guest Post: Cool, Fun And Affordable Things To Do With Kids In Los Angeles

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If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles with your kids, they may be clamoring to visit Disneyland, Legoland and Sea World. While those are definitely popular Southern California attractions, you’ll need more than theme parks to keep your family occupied. Fend off boredom, expend excess kid energy and keep the kids (and yourself) completely engaged in the City of Angeles. In no particular order, let your imagination be your guide to the great places listed below. Here are my family’s 10 favorite activities to do in our hometown: 1. Star Eco Read More

25Jan

Highlights of our trip to L.A. and, oh, the rain

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I never thought it would rain so much during our trip to Los Angeles. Even our friends who live there couldn't believe the amount of rain that hit last week. It was a sog fest. Nonetheless, we all had a great time, out of our usual routine and environment. I had been to L.A. loads of times for work and to visit my friend and sister back in the days of no kids, so I know the city pretty well. We stayed at a superb hotel called the Erwin in Venice Beach. Overlooking the boardwalk and sea, it's a retro hotel that's part art gallery, part beach Read More