September (1/2) 2026 Dump featuring LA and BTS (Part 2)

September 15, 2026

I have a lot of thoughts on Los Angeles. Like A LOT.

First, the city is huge area-wise. In fact, I'm not even sure it's a city. I think it's more of a conglomeration of different cities masquerading as one. My guide for LA in a Day dropped the fact that, in terms of square miles, LA is basically New York and Chicago put together. And that's why it takes forever to get places. People warned me about the traffic and yes, the traffic is bad. But the traffic seems to be a result of the sheer spread out nature of the city and people trying to get from work to home to everywhere else. Like, a barista at a coffee shop in Beverly Hills can't afford to live in Beverly Hills, so they commute. That's distance plus traffic equals nonsense. My commutes were okay in terms of traffic (except for Thursday morning trying to make it to my tour, ughh, but I still made it); everything is just super spread out.

Second, let's talk prices. Gas was expensive. The places you expected to be expensive (i.e. Erewhon, Disney, etc.) were expensive. Otherwise, I was pleasantly surprised by prices. My meal from Del Taco was comparable to anything I'd get at home. Prices in Koreatown were fair. And at the Farmers' Market, I bought a whole baguette for $3.85. Why did I buy a whole baguette? For an afternoon snack.

Third, let's talk people. Did I make lifelong friends from LA while I was there? No, but I still interacted with plenty of people so I am going to generalize. And if there is anyone out there who wants to set me straight with more personal examples, please let me know. So let's say this: southern hospitality does not seem to apply to Southern California. No one was outright mean or rude (except when driving), but I guess I really am just used to a deeper level of manners and friendliness. Like, people seemed surprised when I held the door open for them.

That being said though, we have got to get on board with the openness and acceptance I saw. Planned Parenthood? No protestors. People dressing how they want even if that doesn't match traditional gender roles? No one batted an eye. LGBTQ+ individuals? Allowed to live their lives in peace.

So here's an idea: let's try both. Hold the door open for people and let them express themselves freely.

Moving on to the itinerary, which exhausted me but also fulfilled me because I got a lot done.

LA in a Day Tour- Cannot recommend enough. Despite running on 3 hours of sleep, the tour (especially George!) kept me moving and engaged. I hit all the "hotspots" quickly and got a good overview of the city. See tours here: https://www.adayinlatours.com/

The Museums- Luckily, the Grammy Museum let me in for free because I am a teacher. Otherwise, it just wasn't impressive enough to justify the cost. However, the Natural History Museum of LA County and LA County Museum of Art were certainly impressive.

Warner Brothers Studio Tour- I actually really enjoyed this tour. The guides give you a lot of information and lead you to the best picture spots (Stars Hollow! The Friends Fountain!). Please note, I didn't realize the Harry Potter franchise would be represented in the experiences and exhibits. I do not support anything JK Rowling has said or done recently, which is really quite disappointing because those books were a large part of my childhood. I did do the Sorting Hat experience to put to rest, once and for all, what house I am. I have gotten every single possibility over the years, but it is now official that I am a Ravenclaw.

Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure- Disney World is better. Either way, get the new Premier Pass for Lightning Lanes.

The Spas and Wellness Scene- I found this list (https://www.elle.com/beauty/health-fitness/a69529324/best-spas-in-the-world-2025/) awhile ago and then determined I must visit as many of the spas listed as possible. I hit both listed that are in the LA area and both were lovely experiences. However, one has been visited by Gwyneth Paltrow, and I have yet to turn into a movie star, so that's false advertising.

But I want to talk about the wellness culture I saw. I got asked what kind of milk I want in my latte. I have never been asked that. While I was in my "recovery suite" experiencing the "Ammortal chamber," I overheard some guys talking about cold plunges in the adjoining suite. I guess it helps with longevity? Health? All I know is neither of my grandfathers ever did a cold plunge (at least intentionally, cold bodies of water aside), and they both lived into their 80s. Were they perfectly healthy? No, but they had friends and family who loved them. Also, I am still confused about the red light therapy thing.

Point being, if you want to cold plunge, cold plunge. If you don't, don't. Yes, of course, we should all try and be healthy in terms of diet, exercise, etc., but I'm don't think the $20 smoothie is really going to help that much in the long run. Although it was tasty!

Try what you want to try if you are able (mentally, physically, financially). Heck, I tried a lot at the wellness retreat in Bali, and it was fun! That's what travel (and maybe life...) is, trying and learning new things.

And alas, I saw no famous people out and about, even at said fancy spas and wellness areas.

Oh yeah, I saw BTS again too. The boys are perfect. It was amazing. No notes. 10/10 would do again immediately.

Anyway, here's some pictures. Please enjoy and have a fantastic day.

Also, hit me up if you want me to help you plan a trip. I guarantee you will also feel exhausted but fulfilled.

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