Los Angeles – Contrary to popular belief, true Angelinos are quite nice. Like any Southern Californian, we are mild-mannered, thoughtful, cultured, and possibly high. Some people came here to pursue careers in the entertainment industry. A true Angelino does not look down on anyone – even if they’re successful.
Study the Sunsets
While traditional signifiers of the seasons like changing leaves and snow may be important to greeting card creators, here in L.A. we instinctively sense the passage of time by the quality of light. That golden pink glow is enabled by the specific climate conditions of the Southland. The clockwise movement of a cold ocean current down the California coast causes cool air to drift over the coastal plain and get trapped beneath the warmer inland air. This causes a thermal inversion between the mountains and the sea and makes for very stable air in the basin. The haze we take for granted settles in this stable air and fractures light in a way that minimizes shadows to the delight of cinematographers.
Be Polite
After a while, you’ll realize that being nice and having a good reputation is very important. Not because that is the polite thing to do, but because the broke writer peddling his scripts may actually become a millionaire one day and that successful actor who appears to have it all might actually commit suicide. I’ve seen both scenarios play out. It becomes clear that those rude girls and bitter neighbors are either underpaid, lonely, or lost. First impressions can have permanent consequences.
Take Fountain, not Sunset
Most Angelinos avoid Hollywood. I live here, but I take De Longpre. Do not drive down Hollywood Blvd if you can avoid it, especially at Highland.
Become a Taco Aesthete
Your understanding of tacos is based on where you grew up, who your friends were, your diet, and where you shop. You can impress your guy or gal with a signature taco. Your dinner party should have plant-based tacos. You will not get too fat off too many tacos when you make them at home with corn-based tortillas.
Commit to a Health Routine
Every Angelino has a health routine that is correct to their own body type and lifestyle. Most Angelinos with discretionary income have a had a health membership of some sort. There is probably a fresh juice shop within a 5-mile radius at any point within the city. We reject most of the processed food culture that is prevalent across the United States. It took a longtime I have been through several phases of my health routine. Now, I run three days a week and I go to ballet and pilates class. I am a pescatarian and strive to live a plant-based diet everyday.
Don’t Drive a Motorcycle
As sexy and glamorous as it might sound, a true Angelino does not drive a motorcycle in LA. Those that tried did not live long enough to become Angelinos. Yes, there are some hipsters in East Hollywood and Pasadena who are willing to risk their lives for a biker lifestyle, but the rest of us value our necks, fingers, and toes.
Find a Fancy Hat for Your Hiking Trail
To exude status on your hiking trail, wear a fashionable hat from an Industry project, Ivy League school, or sophisticated association that you are affiliated with. It’s okay if you find a hat or buy one on eBay. I once found a Dream Works baseball cap in my backyard and keep it as a spare in case I have a hiking buddy who needs headwear. People generally smile and nod at you when you wear it, which can be refreshing.
