Los Angeles has been my home for several years now. My first encounter was visiting an aunt who lived in Pasadena. I was on a road trip with my family, still too young to have a driver’s license.

She brought us to the beach and it was love at first sight! I had that ‘ah ha’ moment wondering if it would ever be possible to see that lovely ocean everyday, enjoy the sea infused air and walk down the palm tree lined streets!

Driving back on the long road home, I set a goal to make the beach my home. I didn’t know how, but I wouldn’t give up until I was there.

In the next few years, my plan was slowly coming together. I got into U.C.L.A which paved the way to a new life!

The dorms was my first home. I collected a new group of friends and challenged them to a bike ride. We made it the beach and stayed so long, that we road back to school in the dark!

Nowadays, I realize that living by the shore has also given added value to family time. The lifestyle, options for healthy food, alternative schools, spacious parks, novel coffee shops, places of worship, all add up to a diverse community with lots of opportunities!

Now I am sharing all the gems I discovered and continue discovering while living here at the beach. I hope to help others decide if this is the place where you walk your dog and get your morning coffee! And maybe, when you’re on the road driving back to the shore, watching the sunset and admiring the beauty of where you live, we can share a momentary reflection of beauty, together!