Lisa’s Los Angeles: Life, Love, and Adventure
Living, Loving, and Laughing in Los Angeles
Lisa’s Los Angeles: Life, Love, and Adventure
Living in Los Angeles is like being on a constant adventure, where every street, park, and event holds the promise of something unforgettable. From the iconic Hollywood Bowl to chic, hidden spots like the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel, LA offers the perfect blend of luxury, culture, and laid-back fun. One of my favorite summer activities is catching a concert at the Hollywood Bowl—it’s not just the music that makes it special, but the entire experience. This summer I was there for four amazing nights including watching Barbie The Movie: In Concert, featuring an all-women, mostly women-of-color orchestra called the Barbie Land Sinfonietta. The orchestra, dressed in fabulous pink jumpsuits, brought a whole new level of energy to the iconic score, making for a magical night under the stars.
Los Angeles’ appeal isn’t just limited to its entertainment scene—it’s also a haven for relaxation and culture. A staycation at the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel, tucked just below the Getty Center in Brentwood, offers the perfect balance of serenity and access to the city’s vibrant life. I spent an afternoon soaking in the art and architecture at the Getty, just a short stroll away, before unwinding with a chilled prosecco by the pool. The ambiance of the hotel—serene, yet buzzing with the city’s energy—is a reminder of how LA brings a sense of peace while keeping you connected to everything happening around you.
Whether it’s sipping cocktails while watching the sunset at the Andaz West Hollywood or discovering California’s finest at the newly opened Intuit Dome, LA is a place where unforgettable moments are always just around the corner. The diversity of experiences here—spanning from art-filled staycations to active, airbrushed swag at sports events—reminds me why I love calling this city home. There’s always something to celebrate, whether it’s a musical performance or an intimate gathering with friends over great food. In LA, every moment feels like it could be the beginning of something exciting.
A major highlight of my year has been the journey with my memoir, BRAVE-ish, which has taken me to places I never imagined. Touring with the book has been a deeply fulfilling experience, from being welcomed into the vibrant communities of independent bookstores like Zibby’s Bookshop to meeting readers at various Barnes & Noble locations. Each stop has been an opportunity to connect with people who share a love for storytelling and a thirst for inspiration. I’ve been so grateful to be part of these events, whether through live conversations or the videos I’ve created along the way, sharing my experiences, both funny and emotional, about life, travel, and writing.
LA has been a perfect backdrop for these moments, where I’ve been able to merge my love for the city with my growth as an author. The excitement of meeting readers, sharing my book, and connecting with like-minded creators has made this year one of personal and professional milestones. Every conversation I have at a bookstore, every video shared, reminds me why I do what I do—to inspire, to connect, and to grow.
As I look forward to the year ahead, I’m filled with excitement for the next chapter of my journey, both in writing and in life. With LA as my stage, there’s always something new to discover and more adventures to embrace. And with my book now part of the scene, I feel more connected than ever to the community of readers and storytellers who continue to inspire me.
This birthday has been an unforgettable marathon of candles, laughter, and meals shared with friends from every chapter of my life! I’m endlessly grateful for the friends who lift me up, each one a thread in this lifelong adventure, from Jessica—my friend since 7th grade—to so many others who’ve come along for the ride. Every lunch, dinner, and celebration has felt like an exciting twist in our shared journey—a real game of chutes and ladders, filled with climbs, slides, and unexpected turns that make life so much richer.
Celebrating at the new Ospi in Brentwood added an extra spark. It’s been a longtime favorite of mine in Venice, and seeing it now on San Vicente feels like a little piece of home, closer than ever. Here’s to all the friends, old and new, who make life’s moments meaningful.
One of my favorite things to do in the summer is go to the Hollywood Bowl, we absolutely loved seeing Barbie The Movie: In Concert featuring the Barbie Land Sinfonietta, an all-women and mostly women of color orchestra dressed in pink jumpsuits!
Hey BARBIE! Great Fireworks! at the Hollywood Bowl for Barbie The Movie: In Concert featuring the Barbie Land™ Sinfonietta, an all-women and mostly women of color orchestra dressed in pink jumpsuits!
Enjoying a luxurious staycation at the historic Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel! Nestled on seven acres of serene greenery just below the Getty Center and near Brentwood, this elegant hotel offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to all the excitement of Los Angeles. We relaxed by the pool at sunset, sipping chilled prosecco from our private cabana—such a perfect way to unwind. For lunch, we dined at On Sunset, the hotel’s renowned restaurant, where the fresh guacamole and delicious dishes made the experience even better. Afterward, we took the time to really soak up the culture at the Getty Center, exploring its stunning art and architecture. You can also enjoy the pool and amenities for an afternoon or sunset visit with ResortPass—perfect for a laid-back luxury escape.
Active Airbrush Brings California Cool to the Intuit Dome!
Couldn’t get enough of Active Airbrush at the Visit California event at the brand-new Intuit Dome! From the first stroke, they took custom event swag to the next level, personalizing basketballs with California-inspired designs that perfectly captured the energy and excitement of this new stadium. Guests were thrilled to take home their very own keepsakes—each basketball a vibrant, one-of-a-kind masterpiece celebrating the Golden State’s spirit.
Active Airbrush specializes in custom airbrush art, offering a wide range of personalized products, including apparel, accessories, and of course, sports gear like these stylish basketballs. Their skilled artists use a mix of traditional airbrush techniques and modern design concepts to create stunning, high-quality artwork. Not only do they focus on aesthetics, but they also provide an interactive experience at events, allowing guests to engage with their artistry firsthand.
With their commitment to customization, Active Airbrush empowers customers to choose colors, themes, and personal touches, ensuring every item is unique. Their presence at events, like the one at the Intuit Dome, creates memorable experiences that guests cherish long after the event ends.
Active Airbrush nailed it with creativity, making every detail unforgettable.
California’s Best Gather at the New Intuit Dome: A Night of Inspiration, Adventure, and Unforgettable Swag
The newly opened Intuit Dome in Inglewood was the perfect setting to showcase California’s incredible travel destinations and experiences, bringing together the best of the best in the Golden State. Travel industry leaders, top journalists, and destination experts gathered to celebrate the full spectrum of California’s magic—from vibrant cities and coastal escapes to wine country retreats and mountain adventures. The night wasn’t just a preview of California’s finest; it was an invitation to reimagine the Golden State’s endless possibilities for exploration and inspiration.
The immersive experience included everything that makes California unforgettable: locally-inspired cuisine, signature cocktails, and interactive exhibits that highlighted the distinct vibes of each destination. With more than 40 top travel representatives on hand, guests got the latest updates, insider tips, and inspiration for future travel pieces. And for a memorable touch of stadium-themed swag, Active Airbrush was there to personalize basketballs with attendees’ names, adding vibrant designs in sync with the Intuit Dome’s exciting new era.
Here’s a look at all the California destinations that made the evening shine: Participating Destinations: Beverly Hills Conference and Visitors Bureau, Discover Claremont, Highway 1 Road Trip, KSL Resorts, Love Catalina Island Tourism Authority, North Lake Tahoe, PIER 39, Plumas County Tourism, San Diego Tourism Authority, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), San Francisco Travel Association, Santa Monica Travel & Tourism, See Monterey, Sonoma County Tourism, Stay Healdsburg, The San Francisco Peninsula, Travel Costa Mesa, Visit 29 Palms, Visit Carlsbad, Visit Carmel, Visit Concord, Visit Dana Point, Visit Fresno County, Visit Greater Palm Springs, Visit Huntington Beach, Visit Mendocino County, Visit Oceanside, Visit Oxnard, Visit Pasadena, Visit Redding, Visit Santa Barbara, Visit Santa Cruz County, Visit Santa Maria Valley, Visit SLO CAL, Visit Stockton, Visit Temecula Valley, Visit the Santa Ynez Valley, Visit Visalia, Visit West Hollywood, Visit Yosemite | Madera County, Warner Bros Studio Tour Hollywood, Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau.
With so many destinations represented, it was like a journey across California in one night. From the stunning coastlines to the scenic mountains and bustling cities, the Golden State has it all. It was a night filled with stories, connections, and fresh ideas for the next big adventure.
Celebrating the Andaz West Hollywood at the Sounds of Sunset art exhibit! As the first Andaz for Hyatt, launched in 2007, this hotel redefines luxury with its unique approach to hospitality—embracing unbuttoned luxury with a refreshing vibe and absolutely no stuffiness.
From the stunning rooftop pool, the highest in WeHo, to the vibrant art installations throughout the hotel, every corner exudes creativity and flair. The lobby showcases colorful, tall boots as art, making a bold statement, while the elevator door wrapped to resemble a stack of vinyl records adds a playful touch that embodies the essence of music and art.
Guests can soak in the sunset vibes while exploring the immersive art experience at Andaz West Hollywood. I loved the art curated by Liz Woolf from Song Word Art House. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or enjoying the artistic ambiance, this venue perfectly captures the spirit of Sunset.
Had an amazing time back at Barnes & Noble, UPSTAIRS at The Grove! Loved my book event here for BRAVE-ish with BJ Korros of the Hollywood Moment—so much fun meeting Eric Roberts and his #DWTS partner Britt Stewart. Exciting book signing for Runaway Train! Wishing them great luck on the dance floor!
Spent a lovely afternoon at the Getty Center, soaking in the stunning art, architecture, and views. It’s just a short distance from the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing staycation in Los Angeles. Culture, calm, and a touch of luxury—what a beautiful way to recharge!
So special to have time with beloved friends! Huge thanks to Ospi Venice for serving up their signature coastal Italian fare just steps from the beach—everything from fresh pasta to wood-fired pizzas was on point. Terra at Eataly took things to the next level with its rooftop setting, where we sipped handcrafted cocktails while soaking in panoramic city views. And of course, the elegant ambiance at the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel was the perfect backdrop for unwinding in style, making every moment of our celebration feel even more special. Great laughs, amazing libations, delicious eats, and unforgettable surroundings—what more could you ask for?
Congrats Evan! What a great night at The Adventurers Club hearing about your top ten most dangerous moments.
I loved celebrating Fiprotur’s 5th Anniversary at Culina with Rodrigo and his team from #loscabostourism. There are many new luxury hotels opening and I cannot wait to see them. I have sailed to Cabo many times but I have actually never stayed overnight! Where should I stay FIRST? Being at Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles makes any day feel like a holiday. What a treat to have breakfast with travel friends and talk about my favorite topic! This hotel is where California style meets laid-back luxury so of course you can find it as a Top Hotel in Los Angeles and on #travelandleisure World’s Best Awards.
I am so incredibly grateful to Barnes & Noble Studio City for inviting me to sign my memoir, Brave-ish! This week marks ONE YEAR since my book was published, and I couldn’t be more thrilled! Chris from the store was amazing, helping me with photos and signing. I even had the chance to stroll the aisles with fellow travel writer Timathea Workman! It was so fun to see Brave-ish on the shelves alongside books by some of my favorite authors and friends: Alka Joshi, Christie Tate, Patricia Schultz, Ali Brady, Lisa Barr, Lisa Genova, Cheryl Strayed, Michelle Obama, Gloria Steinem, Jodi Picoult, James Michener, Maria Semple, Beth Santos, and Andrew McCarthy. Feeling like a very happy and grateful author today!
As we embrace the new year and set our goals, I can’t help but reflect on the unforgettable experiences that summer brought us, especially those cherished nights at the Hollywood Bowl. Recently, I had the pleasure of attending a concert featuring the iconic Boyz II Men, which reminded me just how special this venue is in the heart of Los Angeles. The Hollywood Bowl isn’t just a concert hall; it’s a treasure trove of summer delights, where the magic of music meets the beauty of our city. For decades, it has been a place of joy, community, and memorable performances, drawing people from all walks of life to enjoy the magic of live music under the stars.
Boyz II Men were nothing short of spectacular. As the best-selling R&B group of all time, they took the stage and transported us back to the golden age of R&B with their smooth harmonies and timeless hits. I found myself singing along to classics like “End of the Road,” “I’ll Make Love to You,” and “Motownphilly,” feeling a sense of nostalgia that connected me with the music of my youth and the crowd around me. Their performance was a celebration of not only their rich history but also the enduring impact of their music, which has inspired countless artists across generations.
Each note they sang echoed the countless accolades they’ve achieved over their 30-year career: four Grammy Awards, nine American Music Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Their ability to craft timeless ballads filled with sincere emotion is why they remain a fixture in our hearts and playlists. It’s also a testament to their commitment to their craft, as they continue to produce new music and tour across the world.
Attending this concert was more than just a night of entertainment; it was a reminder of the power of music to uplift, inspire, and connect us. As the fireworks lit up the sky, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for being in that moment. Living in Los Angeles offers so many incredible opportunities, and the Hollywood Bowl epitomizes what makes this city so special.
As we step into 5785, I look for the light in the coming year, praying each day that it will be the one to bring all the hostages home. I hope for a year filled with safety, health, and the promise that we will dance again. Let’s cherish these moments, whether it’s a concert under the stars or simply enjoying the beauty around us, and embrace the goals we set for the new year. Here’s to more unforgettable nights filled with music, laughter, and the spirit of LA!
I wanted to share one of the best concerts at one of my favorite places to remind myself and everyone else that we will dance again. Paula Abdul took the Hollywood Bowl by storm, proving once again that age is just a number! At 62, this global icon—known for her unstoppable energy and talent—reminded us all why she’s a true entertainment legend.
As a music superstar, dancer, renowned choreographer, and beloved TV personality (original judge on American Idol), Paula has impacted every corner of the industry. With 60 million records sold and a host of awards including two GRAMMYs, two Emmys, and five MTV Video Music Awards, her influence just keeps growing. Her timeless hits like Straight Up, Cold Hearted, and Opposites Attract continue to bring fans of all ages to their feet
So exciting to be at the grand opening of the brand-new Barnes & Noble on 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica! Loved hearing Mayor Phil Brock and Wally Marks speak about revitalizing the area and gearing up for the LA28 Olympics. The entire team, led by manager Sarah and social media lead Estrella, has extensive experience from other stores, bringing vast knowledge and a true passion for books. BJ Korros conducted interviews with authors and the amazing Barnes & Noble team, including Darlene Ingram, for The Hollywood Moment. I especially loved the giant travel section with books by my friend Patricia Schultz, author of 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, as well as some of my other favorite authors and friends Lisa Barr, Lisa Genova, and Alka Joshi—and many books by local authors, including me! The store also features a huge downstairs, a fantastic children’s section, and many more books by local authors.
Is there a better way to spend a summer night than at the Hollywood Bowl with Pink Martini? This was their 30th performance at the Bowl, and it was nothing short of magical! Huge thanks to Jessica for joining me. There’s something about summer nights at the Hollywood Bowl—the warm breeze, the music floating through the night sky, and the sense of community that makes it a quintessential LA experience.
Pink Martini’s ability to connect people from all walks of life through their multilingual performances (25 languages!) is truly special. Hearing them sing ‘Elohai’ in Hebrew was such a powerful moment—a prayer about the purity of the soul that reflects how music can bring peace and unity to the world. In a time when we need more grace and togetherness, it was beautiful to experience that moment as a community under the stars.
And of course, ‘Hey Eugene’ had us all dancing and laughing! Pink Martini’s joyful energy and commitment to inclusivity are why they’ve been inducted into both the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame and the Oregon Music Hall of Fame. Their music spans continents, blending global sounds with a unique style that makes each concert feel like a journey. No wonder they’re a Bowl favorite!
One of my favorite things to do in Los Angeles is see a concert at The Hollywood Bowl. Thanks to Jessica for joining me at the Hollywood Bowl. Opening for Pink Martini—this is Andrew Bird Trio. AND! I learned how to do overlay on Tiktok!
One of my favorite summer activities in Los Angeles is spending a night at the Hollywood Bowl! In August, I had the pleasure of seeing the Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by Otto Tausk, with the incredible pianist Behzod Abduraimov. The USC Trojan Marching Band joined them for an unforgettable performance!
The program was all Tchaikovsky—Polonaise from Eugene Onegin, Piano Concerto No. 1, The Sleeping Beauty suite, and, of course, the powerful 1812 Overture. The music, the energy, and the atmosphere were all magical! Grateful to spend the night with treasured family.
By the Sea at Hermosa Beach
I had the honor to meet and interview four award-winning Paralympians on their road to the Paris Olympics. These champions shared their love of competition and how they stay motivated:
Ezra Frech says:
Set big unrealistic goals–so big that it keeps you motivated to make your dream come true. And tell other people for support. He is going for the triple crown in track and field at the LA Olympics 2028!
https://www.instagram.com/ezrafrech/
https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/ezra-frech-1153648
Nick Mayhugh learned a new sport during COVID, and told me he sets incremental goals to keep himself motivated. It works because he won 3 gold medals in his new sport of track and field. He said: “Believe in yourself!”
https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/nicholas-mayhugh-1154483
https://www.instagram.com/nickmayhugh
Lizzie Smith says:
Pour everything into your training. There are no guarantees but it is worth it, you need to believe, have faith, keep up the hope and imagine being on the podium!
https://www.instagram.com/lizzi__smith
https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/lizzi-smith-868770
Ahalya Lettenberger says she is able keep going because of her teammates. They support each other and help each other to get back into the cold pool in the morning and swim!
https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/ahalya-lettenberger-799949
https://www.instagram.com/alett19/
Mazel Tov to the authors of On Being Jewish Now and to Zibby Books, Zibby Owens and Zibby’s Bookshop for publishing this essential work at such a critical time. Following the tragedy of October 7—a day that left deep scars on the Jewish community, with lives lost, families shattered, and hostages still held captive—this collection of voices is more meaningful than ever. In a time of grief, fear, and rising antisemitism, On Being Jewish Now brings together 75 diverse perspectives, capturing the resilience, courage, and strength of Jewish identity amid overwhelming pain.
This anthology speaks to the challenges of being Jewish today and the unwavering pride that binds us together. In honoring these voices, we also honor those affected by the tragedy, those still waiting to come home, and our commitment to speak out against hate. Thank you to Zibby Books and all the authors for amplifying our stories and helping us find solidarity and healing.
Grateful beyond words for the incredible people in my life – friends, family, and community. Your support means the world to me. We all need our village, filled with kindness, those who see the next steps for us when we can’t, who lift us up, and who wish for us hidden miracles. My wish for you is to be filled with tremendous health and the power to find joy daily.
As we begin 5785, rooted in Tikkun Olam, the Jewish belief that we are responsible for making the world better, I will be sharing several opportunities to give back and help. Here’s to a new year filled with love, laughter, adventure, radiant health, abundance, and JOY!
FUN FOTOS from the red carpet and gala night! I am a 2x WINNER at the 66th annual Southern California Journalism Awards! My PODCAST “Make Your Own Map” WON for my interviews with both Samantha Brown and Tony Phelan, A Small Light. Thank you to the Los Angeles Press Club. I was also a finalist for Online Journalist of the Year, Podcast Host and for two of my other podcast interviews with Andrew McCarthy and Christie Tate.
THANK YOU!! I am deeply grateful to everyone who joined me and BJ Korros from The Hollywood Moment at Barnes & Noble at The Grove for my BRAVE-ish event! WOW! Thank you to Rachael for the incredible 6 foot wide banner that hung up on the 3rd floor for over a month. THANKS to everyone who showed up and asked questions and bought books and to all our giveaway sponsors. It was SO MUCH FUN!! Thanks to my sister for flying in from NYC as a giant surprise! and to all the friends and family who not only showed up at Barnes & Noble but were also at my events at Vroman’s Bookstore & Zibby’s Bookshop! Want your own signed copy of Brave-ish?
What a fantastic evening with Hadassah at Small World Books on Venice Beach! It was such a joy to celebrate the one-year anniversary of BRAVE-ish with a warm, welcoming group of women who share a passion for travel and support each other’s journeys. We talked about adventures, life, and how women wander the world, making a difference wherever they go. And of course, we had cake to celebrate! I’m filled with happiness, pride, and deep gratitude for everyone who joined me. Here’s to more travels, stories, and the incredible power of community!
I’m SO excited to share that tomorrow marks the one-year anniversary of my memoir BRAVE-ish! I’ll be celebrating this milestone with a special event at Small World Books, hosted by Hadassah, and I’d love for you to join me! It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m so honored that the event is featured in the calendar section of the Jewish Journal. It’s a reminder that small steps—like sharing stories, exploring new places, and building connections—can lead to BIG changes.
I’m incredibly grateful for all the support I’ve received over the past year—whether you’ve bought the book, left a review, shared your thoughts on social media, or come out to events. Your encouragement has meant the world to me!