1.29.2015

The Getty Villa - LA


The Getty Villa - Pacific Palisades
i can't believe my trip is almost over! three days is definitely not enough time, but i am actually surprised by how much i was able to do. possibly something to do with my body not adjusting to the time difference for sure. although.....with the two hour difference, i was early to everything instead of late....perhaps my body is naturally on Cali time.....#noted.
post brunch, i decided to travel to the outer rim of the LA area to the amazing +Getty Museum Villa! since it was technically winter, the pond was turned off, and some flowers had yet to bloom, however the artwork and sculptures were superb. not to mention the view! of course you can take a peek on their website for the Roman-Greco wonders they have to offer, but i was able to snap a few of my fav shots


if you have never been here, like myself, you'll first notice a few flower beds and a wisteria laced stairwell leading up to the above view in the photo. absolutely b r e a t h t a k i n g 
 - like taking a huge step back in time [first thought was of Pompeii with the mountain in the background, oops]


again, given the time of year [and drought] the pond was not filled with water, but the blue coating gives a glimpse of what to expect. luscious green shrubs and trees strike a brilliant contrast against the halls and garden sculptures. 




though not mandated, everyone remained pretty quiet while walking through the museum, minus those on the guided tours. i opted out because i get bored with slow moving groups would rather walk on my own, but i have read that they are very informative.


overall, i'd say this is much better than most museums. a good mix of your typical indoor exhibits with a picturesque outdoor area sure to amp up your selfie game make you appreciate the wonders of nature





T-Tips

  • reserve your ticket online - there is no entry fee for the villa, however, you will need a time-slotted ticket to enter. they do have a limit
    • tickets must be printed out
  • depending on your feet sensitivity, you may want to wear comfortable shoes. the villa is expansive, and lots of walking/stair stepping is involved, but still accessible for handicap individuals [elevators, ramps, wide hallways, etc]
  • kleenex - remember, this is mostly a garden, so if you visit during the flowering season, be prepared for pollen attacks if you have seasonal allergies
  • take an +Uber/+Lyft if you are nearby. you'll save time/money looking for a parking spot. even if you live close enough to walk, you still need a vehicle since walking entry is not allowed
  • keep your camera/phone charged! you will take plenty of photos, #trustme


1.25.2015

Sunday Brunch - VanderPUMP WeHo



ahhhh, the refreshing taste of virgin mimosa in the morning is absolutely delectable, in addition to my personal bottle of +VOSS Water. following suit of +Bravo style eating venues, i decided on Vander PUMP in West Hollywood (WeHo) for brunch! i did make my reservation a good month in advance, and even then the time slots were limited. if you have ever watched +Vanderpump Rules, you may be shocked to learn this place is not as spacious as it appears on camera, and the outside looks slightly like a warehouse. do i have evidentiary support for this? no - i refuusssed to be that person in a celeb locale eating area, but trust that i'm keeping it wun-hunned   

beyond that, the place is quite gorgeous. ancient fig trees, attractive staff, all of these menus - the places definitely grows on you [and i have learned to accept the narrow table space aka you got neighbors]. i dined on the very scrumptious Seared Salmon Scramble from their Sunday brunch menu, and i was not disappointed. no celebs, but i made some cool friends again! Lisa, you have proven to me that your restaurants are open and highly social.


T-Tips

  • +Uber/+Lyft /Walk if you can because, as with most of WeHo, there is no open parking beyond valet. 
  • make a reservation ahead of time - i used +Open Table Inc. via +Google Maps , and i am very glad that i did. nothing is worse than arriving at brunch time and waiting in line until dinner time
  • order something with salmon