Meet Michelle Davies from North London UK, who moved to LA 20 years ago….’really just looking for something different’.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA? Yes, my uncles Ray and Dave Davies from the Kinks lived and worked in LA. So it sounded exciting…with really great weather!
What do you miss most from home?
I definitely miss my family! I come from a very close family, even though we do argue a lot! We are very close…..I really love the British humor. Funny, when I first came to LA I really missed things like Christmas Pudding, roast dinners and pancake day. And definitely baked beans. They were really hard to find back then.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
My first impression of LA was how clean and bright everything was and how you could swim or lay in the sun in December! I loved the different colors of the plants, and the incredible view driving through the hills and the canyons! For me LA hasn’t changed.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus London?
Of course the weather, but honestly sometimes I really want it to rain or get really cold. I think in London were are not so intense about things and also not so politically correct. Sometimes Brits just don’t have any filter. I personally find it really funny! Well definitely where I’m from. I think in LA they are more conscious about what they say…..well, in most cases.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Yes, I used to love to go and meditate at the Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine Temple on Sunset Boulevard (in Pacific Palisades). They have some amazing gardens with a lake and ducks. It’s really a peaceful place. My uncle Dave introduced me to it. It’s a great place if you just want to get away and clear your head. Also I practice Buddhism, it has really helped me in so many ways. If you would like to find out more please don’t hesitate to contact me, the members are so nice and supportive .
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Definitely have your goals in mind and stay focused on them. Don’t get distracted, that can happen very easily in LA, However it’s definitely a great place to live. Also: make friends with the members in Brits in LA and it’s always a good idea to go to their meet-ups. They are fun, plus you will also receive pretty good advice from members who have been in LA a long time.
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
I guess most Brits come to LA because they are in the entertainment industry.. I was actually given no advice about LA, that’s why I made so many mistakes! However, just by observing my uncles and the entertainers I know I believe it’s really important to always know your worth. Don’t allow anyone to put you down or sidetrack you! Always remember why you came here and keep yourself focused. I really believe the US has al ot to offer. Sometimes you get lucky but most times it takes really hard work and confidence. Also Brits in LA is a great place to keep in touch with like-minded people and you definitely have your support system in place with them.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you?
My passion has always been holistic medicine and organic skincare. In London I trained as a reflexologist. Most recently I have been studying the power of CBD oil, which my uncle introduced me to and that he uses. He had a stroke a while back and the oil has been helping him tremendously! I must admit I was very nervous and skeptical about taking CBD oil! Like most people I thought it was a drug that makes you high! When I started to educate myself more I found out the THC in the plant is the part that does make you high, and that is taken out!
Are you working on anything at the moment?
Yes, I have joined the CBD movement so we can educate more people on the incredible benefits off this amazing oil. Visit us at hempsworking.com. We are also giving away free samples of CBD products! If you are interested please email me for more information at michellejdavies@gmail.com.
