Los Angeles

A city that is constantly being unfairly criticized and isn't even given a chance. One might actually enjoy what this city has to offer if they so much as have the decency to let go of those annoying and ridiculous stereotypes. It's a city that many don't understand and that's what's to love about LA. You never know what to expect and anything is possible. It's a place that breaks all the rules to what an actual city is. It is not a collection of suburbs. It is a car dependent city but has a decent metro system and continues to grow as we speak. It is one of the most fascinating cities in the US as it's one of the most ethnically diverse cities in this country, second only to New York City. Research will tell you that. It is also the second wealthiest city in this country, behind New York City. Research will tell you that. Los Angeles County has the highest number of millionaires in this country. Research will tell you that. It has the most diverse geographic landscape of any city in the US because it has the mountains, beaches, and deserts in one area and is all accessible in one day by car. It is not beautiful in terms of architecture but in terms of natural beauty, it is indeed very beautiful. It is a city of extremes, from the multi-million dollar mansions of Bel-Air/Holmby Hills to the poor and homeless district Skid Row. Research will show you that Beverly Hills is not part of Los Angeles, the city nor is Compton. Research will tell you that it is the third safest big city in the US, behind New York City and San Jose. Shall I go on? The point is, I bet many of you haven't been to LA since the past 5 years and you're basing your opinions on experiences that happened in 2001. No one wants to let go of the damn stereotypes and negative attitudes. Your perceptions of this fantastic city is just out-of-line and ignorant, so much so that it needs to be refuted. Despite all of this animosity, I stand firm on my opinion that LA is one of the most interesting, cultured, hip, trendy, and influential cities in the world. Like it or not. I'll continue to enjoy this great place in which I call home and I think I, a native Angeleno, would understand this city far more than one who ignorantly believes what they want to believe and or what they see through their television screen. Just shows you how powerful and far-reaching Hollywood's influence is on peoples' brains...if they even have a brains.