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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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Back to School Organization Tips

Can you believe school starts in a week? It’s time to finalize your class schedule, buy your books, and get organized! Organization in college is a key to success more than you may think. Here are some of the things that help me stay organized day to day:

1. Invest in a Planner

Plan. Plan. Plannnn. Planners are one of the most important things to own in college. It’s a great way to keep track of everything going on in your life: from homework to internships, to birthdays and appointments. As soon as you get you class syllabi, write down when all your assignments, midterms and finals are for each class. That way you can plan ahead. Plus, planners come in all shapes and sizes, and you can even order them custom to you!

2. Maintain a Clean Desk/Workspace

Feel like you can’t focus on writing a paper? Clean your desk first! It may seem obvious, but an organized space and organized mind go hand in hand. If your study space is cluttered, your mind will be too. Try to clean up after every study session: put away writing tools, get rid of scratch paper, etc.

3. Use Phone Reminders

Let’s be honest: we usually have our phones on us 24/7. This makes them the perfect tools to use as reminders of important things coming up throughout the day. And with so much going on in college, it’s easy to forget things. Schedule a reminder on your phone and it will notify you for whenever you schedule it. For example, it can be anything from “take out laundry” to “go to financial aid office” to “call mom”. This way you don’t need to keep these things in your head, but will get to them when the time comes.

4. Get Some Highlighters

There’s going to be a lot of reading assigned in your college classes. The material at times may be tedious, so add some color to those pages! Highlighters make reading and taking notes not only more organized, but also more fun.

5. Stay True to Your Sleep Schedule

In college there are so many things to do that sometimes we forget one of the most important things for our bodies—sleep! Schedule your sleep routine and try to maintain it as much as possible so that you get plenty of rest and are ready for your tasks the next day. Of course, don’t forget to have some fun! But don’t stay out till 3 AM every night, that’s what the weekends are for!

Good luck and have a great school year! Thanks for sticking with us for our #dashewsummerbucketlist series. Stay tuned for our new blog coming up soon this fall!

Share below how you like to stay organized :)

Lana

#summer #UCLA #school #college #organization #dashewcenter #summerbucketlist #planner #study #backtoschool #tips

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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Shop ‘til you Drop!

You know you haven’t had the full LA experience until you’ve almost maxed out your credit cards. But shopping around LA isn’t just about buying the clothes; it’s about relaxing, making new friends, and eating good food! Each shopping center is unique in its own way. Experience it for yourself! Here’s a few ideas:

Westfield Century City (1.7 miles from UCLA)

This newly renovated mall has a good mix of high end stores like Tiffany and Co., Free People, and Nordstrom but also has stores such as Macy’s, Adidas, and American Eagle. Want to get away from campus but still have a lot of studying to do? La Colombe Coffee offers tables and outlets, so grab a coffee and start studying! Or, enjoy a movie with some friends at the AMC!

3rd Street Promenade (5.4 miles from UCLA)

If you’re planning on going to the beach anyways, why not stop by the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, an outdoor shopping area just blocks away from the water! Check out the street performers as you shop on this bustling street. All your favorites are here! Pacsun, Urban Outfitters, Forever 21, Brandy Melville, Vans, you name it!

Melrose Ave (6.4 miles from UCLA)

Melrose Ave features unique designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Fred Segal, and DASH. Take a picture along the famous pink wall of the Paul Smith store. Grab a coffee at Alfred Coffee or get lunch at Urth Café. Celebs are always here, you never know who you might see!

The Grove (4.9 miles from UCLA)

Located south of Beverly Blvd, the Grove has stores such as Anthropologie, J. Crew, Barneys, and Athletica. Find a new book to read at Barnes & Noble or indulge in your sweet side at Sprinkles Cupcakes. If you’re looking for some holiday magic, visit the Grove in the winter season to see the famous big Christmas tree and falling snow.

Did any of these catch your eye? Comment below where you love to shop around LA!

Happy shopping!

Lana

#DashewCenter #Melrose #LA #LosAngeles #SantaMonica #shop #shopping #TheGrove #Westfield #summer #summerbucketlist #UCLA

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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5 Amazing Date Ideas

Dinner and a movie getting old? Feel like your love life is a barren wasteland of monotony and emptiness? Well, being the single, 18-year-old freshman who spends her free time eating chicken nuggets and binge-watching Grey’s Anatomy in bed alone, I’m obviously an expert in the romance department (I’m still qualified to give you dating advice, though, I promise). Here are 5 cool date ideas that you probably haven’t done yet. Enjoy!

Wheel Fun Rentals at Echo Park Lake

Glide through the smooth waters of Echo Park Lake in an elegant, brand new swan boat from Wheel Fun Rentals! Rentals start at only $11 per hour and come in two and four-seater options –perfect for a double date. The side-by-side pedaling and shade cover also make for cool, breezy bonding time and a bit of extra privacy as well (*wink wink*).

Cat & Dog Cafés

If you and your significant other need a de-stressing date, consider making a reservation at a dog or cat café for warm cuddles and caffeine. At these eateries, you can grab a treat before hanging out with some lovely adoptable animals! Pictured above is the lounge at Crumbs & Whiskers, but you can also visit CatCafe Lounge in West L.A. or The Dog Café, if you’re more of a puppy person.

Moonlight Rollerway

Moonlight Rollerway, with its throwback music and classic ’n cute décor, will transport you right back to the youthful vibes of the decades. It’s the perfect setting to get to know your date better and pull some sneaky moves, especially if you claim that you can’t skate, which will give you an excuse to romantically hold hands and laugh over your mutual lack of ability.

Picnic at the Beach

Everyone knows that the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach with good, homemade food! Take advantage of living in Los Angeles by laying a blanket on a beach and pulling out a basket of your favorite foods for a scenic view, beautiful sunset, and yummy nom’s over a deep conversation. We student staff here at Dashew Center especially appreciate the serenity and gorgeous blueness of El Matador State Beach and Point Dume Beach in Malibu.

Wildlife Learning Center

Take a stroll through the paths of the Wildlife Learning Center and get up close and personal with 50 species of animals from around the world with your boo. You can even sign up for closer encounters with some of the animals, including a porcupine and Siberian lynx, which will make for some serious bonding over the cute animals, fun photo ops, and did I mention the cheap $9 admission?

If you’ve explored most of Los Angeles and are stumped on more date ideas, I hope this list helped you! Not in a relationship at the moment? Not to worry – you can still do everything on this list with just some friends. Get out there and treat yourself!

Love, Liya

#dashew center #ucla #bruins #love #date #relationships #boyfriend #girlfriend #fun #special #hangout #picnic #rollerskating #boating #swanboats

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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Lights, Camera, Action! Here are the top 5 spots to experience the performing arts in the City of Angels

LA is a city filled with countless things to do that appeal to people with all kinds of interests. While there are picturesque beaches lined along the Pacific Coast Highway and incredible taco trucks competing against each other every few miles, there are tons of options for those of you interested in theater and the performing arts; after all, you are living in the birthplace of Hollywood. As someone who has participated in skits and plays throughout high school, I wanted to continue that lifestyle through college. Here is my list of venues you can go to for some improv and stand-up comedy at a pocket-friendly rate and watch some aspiring actors and comedians in the works. What’s great about these places is that many of them even offer classes for those wanting to work on their repertoire!

Upright Citizens Brigade Theater (Two locations in East Hollywood, on Franklin Blvd and Sunset Blvd)

Fun fact: UCB was founded by Amy Poehler, who played Leslie Knope in the sitcom Parks and Recreation! It is a fantastic place to go to for some of the best talent in improv and has performances 7 nights a week. With tickets costing between $5-$10, who wouldn’t want to miss out on it? The UCB Theatre hosts all kinds of comedy shows: improv, stand-up, sketch, talk/variety and cool weird stuff that defies categorization. Moreover, all age groups are welcome for all shows. Lastly, with an alumni roster that includes notable celebrities in Hollywood, you are bound to have an exhilarating experience.

Hollywood Improv (Located on Melrose Ave in Hollywood)

Hollywood Improv is another one of my favorites. Although the minimum age to enter is 18 years old, this place offers a slightly more upscale vibe in comparison to UCB Theater. With a full service restaurant, in addition to the theater, it is a much larger and more spacious venue with around 200 seats. They also host shows almost every day of the week but ticket prices vary depending on the show but are usually between $15-$20. It is definitely worth stopping by this place if you are ever in the Melrose area, a fine shopping and dining hub in Central LA.

The Improv Space (Located in Westwood on Gayley Ave)

This place is located right here in Westwood, and is no more than a 15 minute walk from any part of campus. There are 1-3 improv shows every night at the Improv Space and what’s great is that all their shows are completely free, so it is ideal if you have a low budget. They also offer intensive classes at the first, second and third levels, as well as sketch. They feature improv comedy and feature everything from original plays to live music.

The Groundlings (Located at Melrose Ave in Fairfax)

The Groundlings is another improv theater that features alumni that are now in Hollywood such as Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, John Goodman and Will Forte. They have completely improvised shows that have been practiced and what’s great is that active participation from the audience is a key factor in almost all the shows. The Groundlings also has Improv workshops for those wanting to learn the art and even has classes for the professional actor and sketch writing classes.

The Laugh Factory (Located on Sunset Blvd, in Hollywood)

The Laugh Factory is another one of those venues that has shows every single day of the week. Some of the people who have performed at the Laugh Factory include Dave Chappelle, Jay Leno, David Letterman, Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Carrey, and the list goes on. But what’s unique about this place is that it features open mic nights that allows members from the audience to give a 2-3 minute performance, without using any notes! And if you do make the audience laugh their faces off, you might have the chance to become a regular at the Laugh Factory.

After reading this post, I am hoping you are no longer lying down on the couch binge-watching Netflix and are prepared to head out into LA and explore its theater scene! Leave us a review if you visit any of the places on this list. Let us know in the comments whether there any places we can add to this list!

Until next time,

Rahil

#Dashew Center #summer #summerbucketlist #losangeles #lights camera action #UCLA #Bruins #theater #improv #westwood #Hollywood #laugh #stand-up #comedy #shows

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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5 Museums in LA You Might Not Have Visited Yet

Hey everyone,

I grew up in a place where there weren’t a whole lot of museums, so now that I live in LA, I love to take advantage of all the city has to offer (especially since many museums offer free admission at various points during the year – check out a list here for some more info!). But while some of the LA staples like the LACMA and the Broad are incredible, I also want to give love to some of the spots around SoCal that get a bit less love. Keep reading to find out 5 of my favorites.

The Hammer Museum - 10899 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024 (website)

The Hammer is walking distance from UCLA and has a wide variety of exhibits that rotate throughout the year. They also host a plethora of events, ranging from live music on Thursday nights to weekly mindfulness meditation classes. While they’re currently undergoing some renovations, the Hammer will also be opening a café with a full bar and free WiFi, making it the perfect study spot after a long day of classes, as well!

Getty Villa - 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 (website)

Every time someone tells me they’ve gone to the Getty, I always ask “which one.” That’s because, contrary to popular belief, there are two Getty museums in LA! Just a short drive down Pacific Coast Highway, the Getty Villa is a to-scale replica of a Roman villa. What’s more meta than a museum where the actual building is a part of the exhibit? Plus, because it looks over the gorgeous beaches of Malibu, going is a great excuse to stop by the beach, or to get some tacos from Malibu Seafood Café!

Grammy Museum - 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (website)

I’m a big fan of music, so I feel right at home at the Grammy Museum. Throughout the years, their rotating exhibits have celebrated the aesthetic and music of artists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, and Bruce Springsteen, and their permanent installation highlighting the iconicity of Michael Jackson is sure to impress. There’s always something amazing to experience here, so it’s one of my favorite places to get lost in for an afternoon.

Japanese American National Museum - 100 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (website)

An afternoon in Little Tokyo is one of my favorite ways to escape Westwood without going to the beach, and I always make sure to hit up the Japanese American National Museum when I do. Featuring permanent exhibits on the Japanese internment camps of World War II and rotating exhibits highlighting the work of prominent Japanese and Japanese-American artists, the Museum is a beautiful testament to tolerance, diversity, and culture. Plus, who doesn’t love being right in the heart of Little Tokyo?

Huntington Library - 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108 (website)

Located in Pasadena, Huntington Library is world-renowned for their breathtaking botanical gardens. But did you know the Library is also home to a large scale art collection? The combination of nature and visual art makes for a transcendent experience for everyone who takes a stroll across the massive 207 acre property. If you’re looking for a day trip out of the immediate LA metro area, consider heading to the Huntington Library – it’s always free admission!

There you have it – 5 incredible museums in the Los Angeles area for you to explore. Did I miss your favorite? Let me know in the comments below! As always, happy exploring!

Best,

Justin

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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Free & Fun Ways to Work Out in LA!

If you’re like me, one of your New Year’s resolutions for 2018 was to work out more. If you’re like me, you also gave up on that resolution within the span of two months with excuses like “gym membership is too expensive” or “I’m too busy” (watching Netflix and eating hot Cheetos). Well, now that I’m back in California, I’ve decided to leave my laziness behind and hit the refresh button on that resolution! Here’s a list of outdoor places in Los Angeles you can go to with a friend and get a fun workout without making your wallet cry! Hope you’ll join me!

Marvin Braude Bicycle Path

If you enjoy biking, try the 6-mile bike trail running from the Will Rogers State Beach to Venice Pier with a friend. Colloquially known as “The Strand”, this beachfront sidewalk provides cyclists with iconic views of the Santa Monica bluffs and beautiful coastal views, all while being surrounded by cheerful shops, restaurants, and street performers. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, feel free to bike across the shorter 1.5 mile boardwalk at Venice Beach or roller skate instead! Bring your own equipment or rent from nearby shops like Jay’s Rentals.

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

Climb up the 282 steep stairs at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and you’ll be rewarded with increased core muscle strength, burned calories, and an incredible 360-degree view of Downtown LA! You can also explore the wildlife-plentiful hiking trails and new visitor’s center once you reach the top of the hill. You’ll definitely come back down with a fulfilled heart and KILLER calves.

Beach Volleyball

Grab a volleyball, gather a group of friends, and get ready to get competitive! Playing beach volleyball is not only a fun summer tradition, but it is also an activity that increases agility, burns lots of calories, and is great for your cardiovascular system. Many beaches in L.A. have nets set up for you, so all you need is a ball and your A-game. So why run on a mundane treadmill when you can get the same fitness benefits out of crushing all the hopes and dreams of your dearest friends in a merciless match of beach volleyball?

Swings, Rings, Ropes at Santa Monica Beach

Swings, Rings, Ropes is basically a playground for grown-ups! I haven’t been here in a long time, but this place is one of my personal favorites. There are swings, rings, bars, rope climbs, balance beams, and parallel bars for all your fitness needs! Get a free tan while working on your upper body strength, try a rope climb, or take a break and admire some amazing gymnasts and muscle men doing tricks! Make sure to bring some chalk for your hands if you plan to stay for a while.

Mar Vista Recreation Center

If you need a total body workout, the Mar Vista Recreation Center is the place to go! There are nine circuit training stations in the cool shade, in addition to a dirt path that surrounds the park for a good ol’ fashioned jog. Happy Yelpers value Mar Vista for its spaciousness and large availability of amenities, including a public pool, basketball courts, volleyball courts, tennis courts, soccer fields, baseball diamond, hockey rink, indoor gym, and more!

Did anything on this list stand out to you? If so, I challenge you to visit one of these places at least once this month! If not, do it anyway – you won’t regret it! Tag a workout buddy and get out there!

Thanks for reading,

Liya

#dashew center #bruins #ucla #los angeles #workout #exercise #free #running #friends #biking #recreation #sports #beach #ocean #jog #california

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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The Free Summer Concert Series Bucket-List

Hey everyone,

I’ve been going on snap chat lately and seeing people attend TONS of music festivals, from Lollapalooza to Outside Lands. For those of us who are either too broke or too busy to go to these festivals, it’s easy to get a serious case of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). Not to worry: there are PLENTY of free concert series this summer to make up for it. Diverse genres in different venues makes for a perfect opportunity to discover new music and new places in this lovely city.

1. Jazz at LACMA Series: Every Friday, through August 31. (5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036)

LACMA (Los Angeles Country Museum of Art) is well known for the lamp art installation, but during the summer it hosts a free jazz concert series right outside the museum! If you’ve never listened to jazz, or you consider yourself a jazz aficionado, you’ll be sure to enjoy this summer’s lineup of some of the best jazz musicians in Southern California. Personally, my Jazz history class I took Winter quarter instilled a love for Cannonball and Coltrane so I’ll be trying to go one of these Fridays.

For more information: http://www.lacma.org/programs/music

2. KCRW’s Summer Nights: Weekends, through September 6th. Locations vary.

The DJs of the radio station KCRW are going to venues all around Los Angeles this summer as part of their live concert series! From Chinatown to the Union Station, these free, all-age, outdoor performances will include other activities such as vendors, vintage markets, and interactive exhibits. If you’re a fan of electronic pop and exploring iconic areas around Los Angeles, this concert series is for you.

For more information: http://events.kcrw.com/events/category/events/category/summer-nights/

3. Marina Del Rey’s Symphonic Thursdays and Pop Saturdays: Thursdays and Saturdays through September 1ST. (13650 Mindanao Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292

If you’re looking for a magical evening full of music by the water at sunset, this concert series will be right up your alley. Hosted at Burton Chase Park in Marina del Rey, this program includes classical music during their Symphonic Thursdays as well as a variety of music such as pop, rock, and Latin on Pop Saturdays. Bring a picnic blanket and a picnic dinner, unless you want to treat yourself to one of the gourmet food trucks on site. This picture is one that I took last Saturday when I had the privilege to see the indie singer Cat Power. I give this series my personal recommendation.

For more information: https://www.visitmarinadelrey.com/events/free-summer-concert-series

4.Sunset Concerts at the Skirball: Thursdays, through August 30th. (2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049)

The Skirball Cultural Center is a center featuring cultural experiences, exhibitions, and programs. Naturally, their free concert series takes a global theme that embraces popular music genres, with a focus on traditional world music. Their diverse lineup includes artists from all over the world, including Kishi Bashi and Gili Yalo, as well as free exhibitions inside the museum! All concerts begin at 8, and seating is first come, first serve.

For more information: https://www.skirball.org/programs/sunset-concerts

5. Live at Sunset Marquis Concert Series: Select Fridays through October 12th. (1200 Alta Loma Rd, West Hollywood, CA 90069)

The Sunset Marquis is known as a “home away from home” for many rock bands, such as the Killers, Blondie, Green Day, and more. With such a rich history in the music industry, the Live at Sunset Marquis Concert Series both honors the legacies of the past and serves to discover up-and-coming local talent. From 7-10 on select show dates, you can expect everything from folk artists to rock bands and even DJ sets at this concert series. Many artists that have played this series eventually gained some sort of fame, so this one is the real deal.

For more information: https://sunsetmarquis.com/west-hollywood-hotel-amenities/live-at-sunset-marquis/

For someone who is as dedicated to the art of live music as I am, putting together this list has given me some hope for a summer without music festivals. Not only do free concert series give you the opportunity to expose yourself to a variety of new music, you also get to see beautiful venues all throughout Los Angeles while doing so. I’ve already been to one of these series so far, but I’ll definitely be going to more.

Thanks for reading,

Maddy

#los angeles #concert #Summer #summer bucket list #free #outdoors #dashewcenter

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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We Scream for Ice Cream Sandwiches

Whoever said “money can’t buy happiness” clearly didn’t know where to get ice cream. And with National Ice Cream Sandwich Day at the front of our minds today, what better way to celebrate than to treat yourself at one of these amazing ice cream sandwich shops? One of the many benefits of living in L.A. is the endless supply of unique ice cream shops everywhere you go, but today I’ve put together a list of the best places to get an ice cream sandwich that, for your convenience, are all located close to UCLA campus. Enjoy!

Diddy Riese (0.4 mi from UCLA)

There are so many amazing things about this place, it’s like dessert heaven. With every classic flavor that any good ice cream shop should have, Diddy Riese’s friendly servers add to the goodness by throwing in some fresh, chewy cookies with their treats. And less than a half-mile walk from campus and with amazingly low prices, Diddy Riese is the perfect place for hungry (and broke) college students to treat themselves after a day of classes, or a convenient lunch at Diddy’s neighboring shops, including but not limited to Pieology Pizzeria, Mr. Noodle, and The Poke Hot Plate. Need I say more?

Sweet Rose Creamery (closest location 3.7 mi from UCLA)

Feel like you’re ready to explore some new ice cream flavors, but not ready to completely step out of your comfort zone just yet? Sweet Rose Creamery is just the place for you. Pick up a Summer Corn, Peaches & Cream, or the dairy-free stone fruit-flavored ice cream sandwich (try saying that five times fast) wedged between two chocolate-dipped wafer cookies. Bonus points for the organic ingredients Sweet Rose uses, if you’re like me and see words like “organic” as justification for extra sugar intake. Hey, a person’s gotta treat themselves once in a while, right?

The Coolhaus Shop (7.0 mi from UCLA)

Okay, I’m stretching it a little by adding this relatively faraway shop to this list. But wouldn’t a 20-minute drive to this shop be worth it? With quirky flavors like beer & pretzels, chocolate chipotle, and black sesame, a visit to this ice cream truck would undoubtedly be an experience to remember. Explore mysterious, one-of-a-kind flavors such as “bulletproof”, “halo, my name is” and “netflix ice cream” here, too! And if you can’t get enough, you can also visit their website to order Coolhaus ice cream online! BONUS: Visit today to get $1 off.

MILK (6.9 mi from campus)

Satisfy all your sweet-tooth needs here at MILK, which serves ice cream in an amazing variety of forms and colors. Grab a vibrant macaron ice cream sandwich, reminisce about your childhood with a classic sundae, or drown your study sorrows away in a milkshake, malt, or float!

Mashti Malone Ice Cream (7.0 mi from UCLA)

Nestled between Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards, Mashti Malone brings a taste of authentic Persian-style ice cream to L.A. Their unique, one-of-a-kind ice cream is made from exotic ingredients that devoted regulars describe as “rich-tasting”, “aromatic”, and “soul-cleansing”. Whether these Middle-Eastern flavors are for you or not, a transformative ice cream experience is guaranteed!

If these pictures didn’t get you hungry and desperately craving an ice cream sandwich or two (or five), I don’t know what will. Leave us a review if you visit any of the places on this list! Know any other places to get ice cream here in Los Angeles? Let us know by dropping a comment below.

Stay cool, UCLA!

Liya

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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Lights! Camera! Action! Seeing LA’s Filming Locations

Hi everyone!

I remember my first week at UCLA I was eating at restraint in Burbank that felt oddly familiar. After a little bit of research, I realized I was in a scene from La La Land: the restraint where Sebastian worked as a pianist! Since then, I’ve had a few accidental filming location run-ins. Turns out, unsurprisingly, LA is full of movie scenes. Here are some you can check out:

1.The Office (13927 Saticoy St, Panorama City, CA 91402)

If you’re as big of a fan of The Office as I am, seeing the place where Michael hit Meredith with his car, where Pam slapped Michael, and where Dwight and Andy dueled over Angela is a spiritual experience. When I pulled up, there were several people already taking pictures in their Dunder Mifflin attire. Plus, parking is easy to find!

2. La La Land: Angel’s Flight Railway (350 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071) and Grand Central Market (317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013)

While Griffith Observatory is an iconic spot in La La Land, I decided to go with these two because they’re right across the street from each other and are some of the best tourist attractions in downtown LA. These spots are included in the montage of Sebastian and Mia’s first dates. Grand Central Market is one of the oldest markets in Los Angeles, and has about every variety of hipster food you can imagine. When you’re done feasting on ramen and tacos, you can cross the street for a $1 ride on the world’s shortest railroad - it’s more fun than it sounds, I promise!

3. 500 Days of Summer: Angel’s Knoll (356 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90013) and Bradbury Building (304 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA)

When I was wandering around DTLA, a bench in the park behind Angel’s Flight stood out to me and I couldn’t figure out why. After a little bit of searching, I realized it was featured in 500 Days of Summer. It’s Tom’s favorite spot, where you can see some of the best buildings in Los Angeles! If you’re looking for some of LA’s best architecture, you should head over to the Bradbury Building. This is in the final scene of 500 Days of Summer, but also can be seen in the movie Blade Runner.

4. Inception: Leo Carrillo State Beach (32100 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA.) and Abalone Cove Shoreline Park (5970 Palos Verdes Drive South, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA.)

If you want to discover some beautiful beaches in Southern California, you should follow where the characters went in Inception! Leo Carrillo is the beach Leonardo DiCaprio and Ellen Page step onto from an elevator, while Abalone Cove is where Leo washes up before being brought inside a Japanese palace at the beginning of the movie. After you’re done reading this, you should definitely take advantage of the LA summers and lay out on one of these beaches (unless this is all a dream, of course).

5. Spider-Man (2002) Museum of Natural History (900 W Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007)

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles is the largest natural and historical museum in the United States. It is also where Peter Parker was bitten by a radioactive spider in the first Spider-Man movie! LA was actually the set for quite a bit of the movie: other scenes that involved a lot of spidey-swinging were filmed in DTLA, specifically on 5th Street, 4th Street, Spring Street, Mateo Street, and Grand Avenue.

6. Westworld: Melody Ranch (24715 Oak Creek, Newhall, CA 91321)

I know next to nothing about Westworld, but for those who have seen it, you’ll know Melody Ranch as Sweetwater, the main town in the show. Even if you don’t know Westworld like me, it’s still a pretty unique experience. Walking around Melody Ranch feels like you are transported to a few centuries back, and someone is about to tell you “This town ain’t big enough for the two of us.” Also, it’s nice, quiet, and secluded with some nature reserves nearby.

After researching for and writing this article, I realized I had already been to so many places that were used for filming locations in a TON of famous movies. You can go pretty much everywhere in LA, and it’s probably been in a movie or TV show, including everything from high schools to gas stations. This is one of the most unique things about LA. In the words of Miley Cyrus: this is all so crazy, every(where) seems so famous! Have we missed one of your favorite movie locations? Let us know in the comments!

Thanks for reading, and happy exploring!

Maddy

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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5 Ways to Get Weird in Venice Beach

Hey everyone,

As a California native, I thought I had known all of LA’s best haunts. I knew the vibe, the restaurants, and the must-see tourist destinations. Yet, moving to LA made me realize how much more there was to see. My favorite discovery has been a magical place full of quirky characters and vibrant colors so close to UCLA. This wild weirdo wonderland is Venice, California. Located right next to the famous Santa Monica beach, Venice is famous for its street art, eccentric performances, and overall unique vibe. Here are 5 things to do in Venice that are guaranteed to help you get weird and let loose.

Check out the Skate Park

A childhood activity taken to wild levels, the Venice Skate Park is like having your own local X Games. This popular attraction is located right on the beach and is open to everyone, skaters and watchers alike. Take a seat right outside the barriers to see local skaters perform cool tricks and perfect their craft in the Park’s banks and bowls. Or if you skate yourself, bring your board and try it out!

Instagram the art walls

Driving through LA, one of the tell-tale signs that you are in Venice, California are the walls covered in street art. Vibrant murals cover the sides of buildings, fences, basically any surface you can think of. Bring your camera and take your pick of every background you can think of. From star-bound aliens to larger than life celebrity portraits, there is art to match every vibe and Instagram page. See if you can find my favorite: the giant mural of Vincent Van Gogh’s “Starry Night”.

Meet Muscle men

Love hitting the gym and getting those gainz? You got nothing on these guys. Bodybuilders from all over flock to Venice’s Muscle Beach to show off their reps and take in the sun while a crowd of spectators watch. Even celebrity body builders like Arnold Schwarzenegger have been known to visit. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch one of their regular bikini or fitness competitions. Obviously I know this kind of entertainment is not everyone’s cup of tea but you have to admit, it keeps Venice weird.

Just take a walk

One of the most unique things about Venice is the people that you see there. Stroll down the Venice Boardwalk and take in all of the eclectic performances. Get your palm read by some of the street psychics, take on some challenges to win extra cash, see a magician or five, and make sure to watch where you’re going or you might literally run into someone rollerblading shirtless while playing electric guitar. Sound oddly specific? Head to Venice and come back with a story just as interesting.

Get a taste of Venice, Italy in California

Venice of the West Coast was named because of its founding. Originally intended to be an American version of the Italian city, Venice ended up becoming more of a “Slum by the Sea”. However, you can still get that taste of Italy by visiting the Venice Canals. Located next to the famous Abbott Kinney Blvd., you can spend an afternoon strolling along the canals and then shopping at the local farmers market.

Venice is filled with culture and experience for everyone. If you ever find yourself feeling bored, I definitely recommend letting a little loose at Venice. Are there other areas of LA you want to know more about? Let us know by commenting below!

-Kat

#ucla #bruins #dashew center #venice #venice beach #muscle beach #canals #explore #socal #los angeles #la #summer bucket list #adventures

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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East Asian on the West Side

Hey everyone,

LA has some amazing food, but with the city being as wide-spread as it is, finding an amazing restaurant in your neck of the woods can be a bit challenging. For example, I love East Asian cuisine from any national origin. That being said, I don’t always have the time to my way out to Koreatown to fill my bulgogi beef cravings, or to go to Little Tokyo for a perfect bowl of ramen. After living in Westwood for a while, I’ve found some awesome restaurants that do the trick of providing fantastic food without a killer drive time to the East side of town.

Taiwanese – Little Fatty (Mar Vista): 3809 Grand View Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90066

Admittedly, this restaurant is the reason that I made this blog post. My friends and I have a weekly bowling night on Sundays in Mar Vista (shout out to Bowlero!), and while waiting for our lane this past week, we discovered this amazing restaurant/bar right across the street. Marketing their food as Taiwanese comfort food, this restaurant has everything. Looking for an amazing dinner to share? Grab some friends and try their Chinese BBQ pork (which is quite literally served on a wooden block) or their squid ink xiao long bao (the favorite dish of the table) – you won’t be disappointed.

Japanese – Hamasaku (West LA): 11043 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90025

I love everything about Japanese cuisine, but sushi will always reign supreme in my heart. While there are some great places to find both cooked and raw Japanese food scattered across the West side (particularly in Sawtelle), none have quite hit the spot like Hamasaku does. The restaurant is just as aesthetically pleasing as the food is, and the quality of their fish is some of the best I’ve ever had in my life. If you’re feeling adventurous and/or indecisive, consider their omakase options – their chefs will assemble a 14-piece sushi dinner for you that is out of this world.

Chinese – Northern Café (Westwood): 1064 Gayley Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90024

LA has so many amazing Chinese restaurants – particularly on the West side – so this was hard to choose (and before you ask, I know, I was surprised I didn’t plug the newest location of Din Tai Fung that’s right down the street from UCLA too). My current vote is with this Westwood favorite. It’s close to campus, has delicious food, and offers unbeatable prices. My personal favorites: the mapo tofu is a savory vegetarian delight, and the house special cumin lamb adds a nice heat to a tender meat dish.

Korean – Genwa Korean BBQ (Beverly Hills): 170 N La Cienega Blvd. Beverly Hills, CA 90211

For me, there are few meals that are more fun than Korean BBQ, probably because I love to combine social functions and food together. Gathering some of your friends and loved ones around a grill to cook together is always a special moment – especially when the options for what to cook are as amazing as they are at Genwa! With one location in Beverly Hills, it’s an option that’s close to campus and offers all of the meats, sides, and spices that you could ever ask for.

Ok, I’m hungry now – all of this talk about food really has me going! I hope these restaurants give you some fun spots to try that aren’t too far away from UCLA. Have I missed one of your favorite restaurants? Is there a region of the world you’d like us to explore next? Let us know in the comments!

Until next time,

Justin

#summer bucket list #asianfood #losangeles

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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Taco... Thursday? Our Favorite LA Taco Trucks!

Hey y’all!

I don’t know about you, but I’m constantly thinking about food. It’s one of my biggest passions, which makes living in LA so fantastic! Great food is literally on every corner – food trucks are a staple of most modern metropolitan areas in the United States, and Los Angeles is no different. Tacos, in particular, are a Dashew Center favorite. Keep reading to find out some of our favorite taco trucks in LA!

Leo’s Tacos – (1515 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019)

If you’ve only got a few bucks for dinner, Leo’s Tacos is an excellent destination. Starting at $1, (that’s right, ONE dollar) you can treat yourself to some of the city’s best tacos. Tacos Al Pastor – or tacos with thinly-shaven slices of pork and pineapple – are Leo’s specialty, but you can try a range of meats from pork stomach to beef tripe on tortas, tostadas, and more! Also, because it’s found in a gas station parking lot, filling up your tank is a great excuse to treat yourself this weekend. Visit their website for more information.

Kogi BBQ Taco Truck – (Truck locations: check website. There’s also a permanent stand! )

With the influx of “fusion” restaurants storming Los Angeles, it’s not surprising to find cuisines that highlight the culinary classics of two or more countries or cultures. Kogi BBQ heralds the best of both Mexican and Korean, and the best embodiment of that fusion is found in their world-famous Korean short-rib tacos. Beyond the realm of tacos, their beautifully-executed cultural fusion includes mulitas, quesadillas, and even hot dogs.

Cena Vegan – (Various Locations)

Admittedly, I’ve been struggling to lower my meat consumption because some of the BEST cuisines (Mexican!) are pretty meat-based. However, Cena Vegan is considered one of the closest plant-based substitutes to satisfy the vegan Mexican craving. Featured as one of the best trucks at Coachella and even the popular LA food-festival Smorgasbord, Cena Vegan might convince you that being vegan is easier than you thought!

Writing this post gave me a SERIOUS taco craving- hopefully reading it had the same effect on you. Those summer session fees were pretty brutal, so you can probably find me eating too many $1 Al Pastor tacos at Leo’s. If you’re here for LA during the summer, I would definitely take advantage of the long days and warm weather and try out a food truck or two. Are there any other food trucks we should know about? Let us know in the comments!

Happy eating!

-Maddy

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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Above Sea Level: Places to get Altitude in LA

Hey everyone,

Happy first week of summer classes! I am always finding myself missing the mountains in my home state of Utah; there is something about the scenic views, fresh air, and simply escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. Because I am in LA for the summer, I plan to hit many of my favorite trails: here is some of the best hikes in the area!

Escondido Falls Trail – (27807 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265)

A relatively easy, flat, yet adventurous-if-you-want hike, Escondido Falls offers a lush, green getaway and three different waterfalls. You can think of the different waterfalls as “levels” of the hike, the first one is easy to get to, but as you go on the trail becomes more difficult and slippery. Make sure to wear shoes with a good grip and use caution when climbing the falls! If you can make it to the third and most impressive fall, you’ll be able to see the best views that the region has to offer, AND you’ll be able to brag about it to all your friends.

Runyon Canyon – (Franklin Ave to Palmero Road, Los Angeles)

One of the closer trails to the city, Runyon Canyon offers spectacular views of everything from Griffith Observatory, Capital Records, the Chinese Theater, and more! In this canyon, there are several different trails with varying difficulty. If you want a shorter hike, the entrance from Mullholland offers quick trails, but the western trail off of Vista will give you a more strenuous workout AND the opportunity to let your canine companions off the leash. If you are looking for a scenic view of the city, Runyon is an excellent option.

West Griffith Observatory Trail – (Fern Dell Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068)

If the distant view of Griffith Observatory on Runyon isn’t good enough, you can get up close and personal on the West Griffith Observatory Trail that leads right up to it! This trail is slightly touristier, and will be a bit more crowded than the other ones, but it’s an easy to follow path with beautiful views, especially around dusk. Plus, entry to Griffith Observatory is free, so you can easily check off two of your summer bucket list items with this one! Beware, this one will take longer than you expect because you’ll want stop and take pictures every five minutes. At least I did.

Los Liones Canyon Trail – (510 Los Liones Dr, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272)

This trail is home to some of the best views of the Pacific that I’ve seen so far - equipped with benches along the way for you to stop and admire it as well. This one is a bit longer and at times strenuous, but there’s something to look at the entire way there! Expect a sizeable crowd on the weekends because this one is more popular as well, but of course, the views are worth it.

Mishe Mokwa Trail to Sandstone Peak – (Mishe Mokwa Trail, Westlake Village, CA 91361)

A little more challenging than the rest of the hikes with the occasional quick elevation gain, Mishe Mokwa requires a little more effort, but it’s nothing a hiking newbie can’t manage. The variety of the trail keeps you entertained for all six miles. Between shrub-laden walkways with stunning views of the Pacific and adventurous rocky climbs, the trail is different, but doable.

Although hikes are not necessarily the first thing you think of when you think of Los Angeles, there are certainly hidden gems in the parks and mountains of Southern California. When the city, and especially Westwood, can start to feel like a little bubble, I’d say it’s completely worthwhile to escape to the (semi) solitude of a Los Angeles Trail. Do you have any other trails you would recommend? Comment below!

-Maddy

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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5 Beaches You Must Visit This Summer!

Hey y’all,

One of my favorite parts about summer in LA is that it’s always the perfect weather to go to the beach! After a year at UCLA, I felt like I wasn’t taking advantage of our coastline as much as I could – that’s why one of my New Year’s Resolutions this year was to go to the beach at least once per month. All of that being said, all of the beaches in SoCal have unique vibes and views. To help you find the right beach for your summer adventures, I’ve made this guide with my 5 favorite beach spots, so you’re covered no matter the occasion!

Santa Monica Beach (Santa Monica, CA)

Perfect for: Those people that like the beach, but also want other things to do.

Don’t let this picture fool you – Santa Monica is one of the more crowded and popular beaches in the LA area. That’s partially due to the Santa Monica Pier (pictured), an iconic boardwalk complete with restaurants, arcade games, and an amusement park. It’s also right around the corner from the Third Street Promenade, an expansive outdoor shopping area perfect for a fun afternoon. Plus, it’s super close to Westwood – only a 20 or so minute drive – making it a quick fix for all of your coastal needs.

Carbon Beach (Malibu, CA)

Perfect for: People looking for a bit of sight-seeing – and star searching!

Carbon Beach is home to some of the most beautiful sunsets in all of California. It is also home to some of California’s elite, garnering it the nickname “Billionaire Beach.” This beach is a fun day trip for those who want to check off “seeing a celebrity” from their bucket list – I’ve seen actress Jamie Lee Curtis and singer Melissa Ethridge in some of the past times I’ve been! Plus, Carbon Beach is a stone’s throw away from the Getty Villa and the world-famous Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market – two of my favorite places in California.

Venice Beach (Venice, CA)

Perfect for: People looking for a cultural experience; people watching.

Venice Beach is iconic for its boardwalk, which is full of eclectic shops, street performers, and people. There’s literally something for everyone here. If you’re looking to get a workout in, stop by the outdoor gym, Muscle Beach. Want a bite to eat? Stop by Abbott Kinney Boulevard for a wide array of eateries, coffee shops, and bars. No matter how you slice it, Venice is a quintessential piece of LA culture, and the perfect place for a crazy day adventure!

Dockweiler State Beach (Playa Del Rey, CA)

Perfect for: A fun night with friends; camping enthusiasts.

Dockweiler State Beach is a no-frills beach located near Los Angeles International Airport. It makes this list due to one fact: it is the only beach in the area that has fire pits, making for the perfect beach bonfire spot that’s not too far from UCLA campus! The fire pits and the gorgeous sunsets make Dockweiler a Dashew Center favorite – we’ve had many events here, most notably our annual end-of-the-year celebration for our Global Siblings program. Plus, Dockweilier also has campsites for anyone who wants to spend a night by the water.

El Matador (Malibu, CA)

Perfect for: Scenic views, the perfect Instagram post, or a great date spot

While I normally don’t pick favorites, I really am saving the best for last here. El Matador is hands down one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places I’ve ever visited. A relatively secluded beach, it’s a lot more intimate than many of the other locations on this list. The rock formations, hidden coves, and steep cliffs all make for incredible backdrops for a great Instagram picture. It’s also one of the least crowded beaches I’ve spent a day at in LA, which is perfect for someone like me who wants little interruptions during their day in the sun!

I hope this helped you add a few places to check off out your #LABucketList this summer! No matter what beach you visit, you’re sure to have a great time. And who knows – maybe I’ll see you there! Are you planning a day trip with some friends? Did I miss your favorite beach on my list? Let me know in the comments!

Have fun, and happy exploring!

Justin

#ucla #dashew #dashew center #summer bucket list #los angeles #la #california #explore la #socal #beaches #beach #santa monica #venice #el matador #dockweiler #malibu #travel #adventures #adventure

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dashewsummerbucketlist-blog · 6 years

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Welcome to the Summer Bucket List!

Hey everyone!

One of the goals of the Dashew Center has always been to help bridge the gap between the domestic and international communities, both at UCLA and in the broader Los Angeles area. Whether you’re an incoming student or scholar, have just finished your first year on campus, or are a UCLA veteran, we realized that you might not know all of the amazing things that are in Los Angeles to take advantage of during the summer months.

That’s why I’m proud to introduce the new blog of the Dashew Center: the Dashew Summer Bucket List!

The goal of this blog is simple: to help you get to know the Los Angeles area a bit better. Over the course of the summer, our student and professional staff will share some of their favorite parts of Los Angeles - from letting you know about events that are happening on or around campus to all of the places and spaces we love to frequent.

Most of us weren’t born in Los Angeles, either, so we know what it’s like to have to learn how to navigate a new place. Hopefully, this blog will give you some insider tips and some locals favorites to explore, as well as a few things to put on your own #SummerBucketList! We’ll post regularly, so be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and (obviously) Tumblr to keep in touch.

Happy exploring!

-Justin

#ucla #bruins #dashew center #dashew #dciss #los angeles #explore la #la #travel #food #adventures #events #summer bucket list

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