Not all Brits in LA Members are British, this week we would like to introduce you to Eugene Ganley from Westport, Ireland who moved to LA 14 years ago.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
No, LA was not my first choice. I had got recruited to work for a company in Chicago but a week before I was supposed to move it sold its Chicago operations and I was given a choice of Detroit or LA! I came here on a J1 training visa with the intention of being here one year tops and alas still here! I currently manage Joxer Daly’s Pub in Culver City, ‘the Home of Football’, here in LA.
What do you miss most from home?
I miss pretty much everything of home….what I don’t miss is constant conversations of weather reports and funerals at home.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
My first impression of Los Angeles is comparable to Dorothy Parker’s quote ’72 suburbs in search of a city’. LA itself and surrounding cities/suburbs have improved immensely from 14 years ago. The food scene has exploded, we have more mass transit systems, our beer and craft brewery scene is one of best in the nation. And nightlife is no longer just Hollywood. DTLA is now a proper hub of nightlife and now we have the welcome addition of LAFC (Los Angeles Football Club) which is the closest thing we have to a European style football atmosphere.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus Westport?
Biggest difference between here and home is…Home is a lot less stressful plus you don’t have to repeat yourself a few times over lol
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
I like going to places I would not usually find at home and make me feel like I am on holiday… I love Mexican cantinas. Lula on Main St, Santa Monica is one of my favourites, and Casa Sanchez for the mariachi show. Santa Monica Brew Works for its great beers and the vibrant Taproom. For more reminders of home I enjoy Auld Fella in Culver City and the Cock N Bull on Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica. If you want to watch the football I highly recommend my own spot Joxer Dalys as we show all the matches.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Have all your paperwork in order and if not seek recommendation on the Brits in LA group for professional legal advice. Always explore your options carefully…I find too many simplify legal matters which may have worked for them but may not be compatible for you.
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?
Best piece of advice here is stay in your lane! If you’re staying long term focus on making it a home..if you are unhappy or feel unsettled don’t be afraid to make changes.
