Hi all

LA vs NYC?

While there have been lots of comparisons drawn previously, I would like to hear some answers to this question as my hubby has a conference in LA in the spring... I need to know (as I live on the east coast of Canada) - is LA worth a 7+ hour flight or should we plan something later on the east coast (NYC, which I've never been to)?

To help, the conference is in June, we love the outdoors, but we like funky, multi-ethnic cities as well. No interest in Disneyland (been there, done that). Big foodies. Especially Asian food!

My feeling is that both cities can be overwhelming but great in their own way.

Should I go? Should I wait? Helllp!!



KD

KD,

I have to admit to being an L.A. addict. I would absolutely go for it if you have the opportunity.
What makes L.A. so great IMO is that the whole world can be found there along with great weather. And even if the weather isn't that great (as was the case on my last trip in late October), there is such a multitude of activities (museums, restaurants, shopping, bars) that you can easily pass your time.
I also happen to believe, that it is hard to find another place offering such a variety of nearby scenic places (San Diego and Laguna Beach for great beaches, Santa Barbara and its wine country for a leisurely day in the country, Big Bear Lake and Santa Monica Mountains for hiking etc. etc.) and that will inspire you with as much freedom as you will sense in that city!
Have fun and enjoy!

This is kind of a baiting question, because each city has its plus and minuses. I would opt to come to L.A., simply because the southern west coast is so very different in so many respects (aside from the weather, of course) than the northern east coast.

But if you like "funky, multi-ethnic cities", that's what L.A.'s really all about. You will be in food heaven, for sure, and this is THE place for being outdoors.

L.A. can appear cold from the grid layout and because it's so spread out from a feeling of isolation at times, and the post 40's buildings can be architecturally shameful, for the most part. But we have something NYC doesn't have: tree lined streets and lots of greenery, even though it is, technically, a desert. We also have the Pacific Ocean, which is quite a nice bucket of water to look at and sail on. And people do smile and say hello on the street, and generally try to help people out when they look lost.

I'm not sure I understand the question/dilemma. If your husband's company is going to pay for him to go to LA and if your choice is to meet him there (so only cost of one airfare) to take a vacation vs going to NYC another time, the answer's simple. GO to LA. Plenty of good food. Try to see San Diego area too while you're there.

Actually, I'm becoming a big San Diego fan so maybe he should meet you there for your vacation. A few days in San Diego/La Jolla and then a few in LA before flying home.

Having grown up in Brooklyn, NY, I am not unbiased. I have visited LA as my daughter lives there. For me, it's no contest-NEW YORK! There are many positives for both. LA has the fabulous weather, good food, beaches, cultural events. NY has the "edge" that is missing in LA. Some people prefer the laid back atmosphere of LA.The traffic is pretty awful in both. The food in NY is superb!The cultural multi ethnic thing can be found in both places. However, Broadway, Empire State Building, Statue of Lberty, museums everywhere, clinch it for NY!

Just to add one other short note regarding weather- in LA and San Diego you may hit June gloom- while in NYC June is really beautiful, and as far as beaches go, the Jersy Shore and the Hamptons are both equal to beaches you will find on the west coast... an the water is much warmer! And as far as funky and mult- ethmic you can't beat NYC. Good luck in whatever you choose to do.