California is packed with popular tourist destinations but rarely do any of these rival Los Angeles. As the largest city in the state and the place that thousands of celebrities call home, LA is a bucket list destination for millions of people.
Although this diverse area has plenty to keep you occupied, it’s also a large city, so you must be careful when you’re there. As you’re exploring the many theme parks, beaches, mountains, dining, and entertainment, keep these safety tips in mind.
1. Learn the Roads
Driving in LA isn’t the same thing as you’re probably used to in your hometown. As one of the top worst cities for traffic in the country, you’ll want to do some prep work before you hit the highways here.
The freeways and other streets are packed with people in a hurry to get to their destinations. So, of course, you’ll sit in traffic jams caused by those rushing around and not watching where they’re going.
Plan your route ahead, and leave yourself a solid cushion of extra time to account for these gridlocks, even if you’re taking public transportation or using a rideshare.
Don’t forget to figure out where you’ll park your car if you’re driving. There are parking lots and garages (usually at a pay-per-hour rate) and thousands of people who want to park in them. If you don’t figure out your options ahead, you’ll be driving in circles, trying to find a space, and not putting your full attention on the road.
Car, pedestrian, and motorcycle accidents are serious problems in LA County. Do your part to keep everyone safe by learning what to expect on the roads before you get on them.
2. Don’t Talk to Strangers
The warnings your parents gave you as a child still apply in Los Angeles. It may be the City of Angels, but that doesn’t stop people from trying to con and scam their way through the tourist crowd.
If you look like a tourist, you’re a target. There are plenty of easily recognizable cons, like the old “talent agent” scheme, but people fall for them anyway, so scammers continue to use them.
You’ll also find people on the street who want to give you their CD/T-shirt/other merchandise for free. They’ll be friendly and personable, and you’ll want to reach out and take the item because you’re a nice person.
Take our advice, though: It’s not free. They’ll follow you around and harass you until you give them money.
The best thing to do is to avoid talking to anyone on the streets. If they’re not in a reputable storefront that you chose to enter, and they don’t have a nametag or other identifiable sign that they work there, walk away.
3. Watch Out For Pick-Pockets
Speaking of walking through crowds, another crucial tip is to learn how to protect your valuables. Purse-snatching and pick-pocketing is an ancient pastime, and it’s still alive and thriving in LA.
Be aware of your belongings at all times. Consider investing in pick-pocket-proof accessories, such as clothes and bags, with extra layers of protection over the pockets. These make it a little more difficult for thieves to grab your stuff, which can be just enough of a deterrent to get them to leave you alone.
Store your valuables where they’re not visible, including your phone. Keep your wallet and other important possessions where other people can’t see them but where you can keep tabs on them.
When you’re on public transportation or in busy areas, like Sunset Strip or LAX, hold extra tight to anything valuable.
4. Stick to the Safe, Lit Streets
You can find almost anything you’re looking for on the streets of LA, and the nightlife reflects this. If you’re invited out for an event Downtown, it’s sure to be an adventure as you explore the streets of clubs, bars, pubs, and speakeasies.
To stay safe, stick with a group, and walk along the well-lit streets. Avoid back alleys, dark roads, and traveling alone. If you don’t have transportation, call a rideshare and request that they pick you up outside the front doors. Wait with an employee of the establishment until your ride picks you up. Of course, follow all rideshare safety rules before you get in the car.
Conclusion
These safety tips apply to any unfamiliar place you go. However, they’re particularly relevant on the streets of LA. You might feel like a tourist by following the normal paths, but at least you’ll be safe!
