jolenegoes: Travel blog + Reviews + TRAVEL Tips

Jolene goes to Griffith Observatory: A Mental Health Day

Famously depicted in Hollywood favorites such as Rebel Without a Cause and La La Land, the Griffith Observatory is an iconic Los Angeles landmark that draws tourists and locals alike. So, when I found out one of my besties of 13+ years (Christine) would be in that area, I suggested we include it in our LA-day. Recently I've been battling with some mental health issues, all triggered by recent negative personal and professional experiences. I got to a point where I basically

Jolene goes to the LA Zoo Lights

While I do not celebrate Christmas, I still find myself engaging in seasonal, ~festive activities such as this one. Last year, a good friend of mine wanted to do something festive for the holidays but our schedules didn't work out. This year, I knew I had to make her a priority this season, and oblige her holiday-themed craving. We settled on visiting the LA Zoo Lights, an after-hours event that skips out on the animals but brings plenty of sparkling lights and holiday cheer.

Jolene Goes to the Skirball Cultural Center

In the current Instagram model and social media FOMO climate, popular Los Angeles spots like LACMA or The Broad have been dominating cyberspace, with their insta-worthy photo ops and trending exhibits. I myself have fallen prey to this facade created by Instagram, giving into the allure of Kusama's Infinity Rooms but not seeking out the other museum gems so readily available in Los Angeles. Thankfully, Instagram did me a favor - I saw one of my friends post some photos from t

Jolene Goes to Venice Beach

Sometimes it's nice to be a tourist without going too far! My girlboss friend Cathrine (who I have mentioned in several posts before) spent the day exploring Venice Beach, CA, with no particular plans. We meandered through alleyways, drooled over the canal homes, and ate some pretty yummy food. Blue smoothie bowls at Great White Exploring the canals "Youth is in a grand flush, like the hot days of ending summer; and pleasant dreams thrall your spirit, like the smoky atmospher

Jolene goes to Little Tokyo

Part of my 2018 "resolutions" included exploring more locally, and this little day trip was definitely with that in mind. I wanted to reconnect with my friend Stefani, who I don't get to see often. After perusing Instagram for destination inspiration, I stumbled across a place called Little Fluffy Head Cafe, which turned into the idea of a day trip to Little Tokyo. Los Angeles is often known for certain areas frequented by celebrities or made popular by social media. However,

Jolene Goes to the Museum of Ice Cream

Yesterday, I was privileged enough to visit the Museum of Ice Cream, a playful pop art installation that would make even Willy Wonka smile. Nestled in Downtown Los Angeles' Arts District, the Museum of Ice Cream is a playful, interactive take on the traditional idea of an art gallery. I attended with my friend and fellow girlboss Cathrine Khom, editor-in-chief of Local Wolves. I'm quite a fan of the publication and even more of a fan of Cathrine. I knew she'd appreciate this