Los Angeles, CA is a major #city located on the west coast of the United States, within the state of California. It is the most populous city in California and the second-most populous in the United States. Known for its diverse economy, Los Angeles is a center for the entertainment industry, international trade, technology, and manufacturing. The city’s cultural influence is global, driven in part by Hollywood, which has made it synonymous with film and television production. Los Angeles also features a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character, and is recognized for its ethnic diversity and vibrant arts scene. Los Angeles has been my home since 2014 (12/13/14 to be precise). In that year, I had just reconfigured my life for nomadic travel and planned to move to London. Then, a serendipitous invitation at @Awesomeness Fest led me to LA—some friends literally offered to pay for my trip. I arrived on a whim, caught up in the city’s energy, and quickly found new opportunities and a sense of belonging. On my last day, basking in a perfect sunset, someone said, “you should come here instead of going to London,” and I just… did. I landed with only a backpack and a bike, barely knowing anyone, renting an apartment sight unseen. Even after years of traveling, I still haven’t found a city that matches LA’s vibrance, openness, or sense of possibility (Berlin came close, but I prefer sunshine to snow—and English to German).

Contexts

• This is the @Root Memo for #los-angeles.