Well that’s Christmas out of the way!
I hope you all had a lovely one? I decided to stay in LA this year, but judging by the lack of traffic it seems that the majority of you left town for the holidays. The roads have been an absolute delight and last Sunday afternoon I actually had a choice of parking spots at Whole Foods in West Hollywood. Parking at the upscale market is known to be a nightmare, so much so there’s actually a rap music video about “Getting Real in the Whole Foods Parking Lot” – which has been viewed SIX MILLION times. Google it if you’re curious? Or perhaps you’ve already seen it?
Anyway, enough of my showing off, let’s get on with the news of the week. Lots of you have been asking about NYE – all of the British Pubs including The Cat & Fiddle, The Cock n Bull, Fox & Hounds and Ye Olde Kings Head will be open and start with celebrating ‘British New Year’ which happens at 4pm our time. They will continue on through the evening to ring in the New Year once again eight hours later. Kids are usually allowed to attend the earlier one as all the bars are classed as restaurants, but it is probably wise to call ahead to confirm. We will post all the details (as they come in) on our blog too (www.britsin.la).
If you are looking for something more ‘clubby’ to do our top picks are both British DJs. Sasha (of Sasha & Digweed fame) is currently on tour and will be ringing in the New Year at The Belasco Theatre in DTLA. Tickets start at $65. Go to www.djsasha.com.
Fellow Brits in LA the EC Twins, are headlining at the legendary Hollywood Roosevelt – tickets include a five hour open bar. Visit www.ectwinsmusic.com.
Or if you want a proper disco, you can’t go wrong with Giorgio’s 5th Annual Masquerade Ball at the Standard Hollywood. Tickets start at $60 – Visit www.standardhotels.com for info.
Whatever you end up doing make sure to stay safe and please don’t drink and drive. Take advantage of LA Metro free rides on NYE or if you find it’s too late and already have your car with you call on AAA Roadside Assistance who are offering a free Tipsy Tow, even if you are not a member. Available in the following counties: Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Mono, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Tulare and Ventura. Local motorists must dial (1)800-400-4222 – save that number for just in case!
Are you making any New Years Resolutions? Last year I vowed to stop procrastinating or at least try to do it less. I think I only lasted a few days then completely forgot about it. I will try again in 2019, but no doubt I will put it off until the end of the year again!
I hope one of your resolutions is to come to Brits in LA events more often as we do enjoy getting to know you all and it’s especially lovely to see everyone making new friends. Talking of which, make sure to check in on your family and friends over this holiday period, as it’s easy to just assume every one is tied up and doing fun stuff. But it’s actually quite surprising how many of us are alone. I know some people enjoy their own company, but if you aren’t one of them, be brave and pluck up the courage to let others know that you are at a loose end or feeling a bit lonely. If you are new in town and don’t really know anyone yet then definitely come along to one of our events. We have a weekly Breakfast Club as well as a pub quiz. Both resume in the New Year on January 8th. Everyone is welcome, including kids and non-Brits. Don’t be afraid of coming alone as we have all been in your shoes at some point and have had to do the same. Details can be found at www.britsin.la. Or you can email us at info@britsin.la
Feel free to reach out to our Facebook community too. I often seen posts from newcomers who ask if anyone is around and fancies meeting up, and they always get a very warm and friendly reception. So why not do the same? I’m sure you will be welcomed with open arms.
Happy New Year!
Eileen
