Los Angeles essentials

Arriving at LAX

At LAX, taxis and rideshares don’t pick up at the terminals: take a LAX-it shuttle from the green-column stops on the arrivals level to the LAX-it lot. The FlyAway bus runs from every terminal to LA Union Station and Van Nuys (flylax.com). The airport’s people-mover train is not open yet.

Getting around

Los Angeles is large and spread out. Metro rail reaches Hollywood, Universal City, downtown, Santa Monica and, since May 2026, Museum Row on Wilshire. Rideshare is the easiest choice at night, and a hire car makes Malibu and day trips easier. Allow plenty of time for traffic.

Money and tipping

Prices are usually shown before sales tax, which is added at the till. Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars, and many restaurants also add service or kitchen fees: read the menu and the bill.

Weather and fire season

Los Angeles is sunny for much of the year, with cooler mornings by the coast. In dry, windy weather, park agencies may close trails and areas in the Santa Monica Mountains on red-flag days; check before you hike, and follow official alerts.

Health and safety

Call 911 in an emergency. For minor problems, urgent care clinics are quicker than emergency rooms. Carry travel insurance that covers US medical costs, and on hikes carry water and avoid the midday heat.

Questions and answers