Eat, Sleep, Play - LA

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Two weeks of action and excitement in LA, and here are the details. Bear in mind that my food budget, as usual, was almost non-existant, so it wasn’t exactly dining at the Polo Lounge in Beverly Hills. Still, someone out there may find these suggestions useful.

EAT

Buddha’s Belly - Pan Asian deliciousness, reasonably priced. We had an ahi-tuna spring roll that was awesome, as was the peanut curry noodles. On the corner of Beverly Blvd. and Gardner between Fairfax and La Brea: 7475 Beverly Blvd. Tel: 323-931-8588
Gate of India - At first I was a little put off because $12US for a tandoori seems a little steep, but then the food arrived and WOW, a taste sensation. The eggplant bharta was outrageously good, even the onion bhaji were a step above. 117 Santa Monica Blvd (Cross Street: Ocean Avenue) Santa Monica (310) 656-1664
Messob Ethiopian - On Fairfax Avenue you’ll find Little Ethiopia, and there are a dozen of so ethnic restaurants. This is one, according to locals, is one of the best. Ethiopian cuisine has been amongst my favorites for years, all those yummy veggies and curries (tibs) over soft injera bread. Plus you get to eat with your hands, and share like you’re supposed to. 1041 S. Fairfax Avenue. T: 323.938.8827.

PLAY

California Dreamin Balloon and Biplane Rides - For reservations, call 800.373.3359.. Located in Temecula, a gorgeous part of southern California about two hours drive from L.A.
Sky Sailing - Located in Warner Springs, about two and half hours drive from LA. Call (760) 782.0404. The friendly Willats rent gliders, as well as offering lessons and rides.
Sail Channel Islands - Join Captain Dan aboard Sancerre, his beautiful 46ft luxury yacht, sailing into the Channel Islands amongst dolphins and whales. Phone 805.750.7828
Flightdeck Fighter Jet Simulation- Located in Anaheim, outside of LA. Call 714.937.1511. Bogeys on your nose!
Swordplay - Hollywood swordmaster Tim Weske runs a studio for beginners and pros alike. I remember watching this fencing movie with one F.Murray Abraham and thought. “cool.” Tim’s the right guy to get you fencing in no time! T: 818.980.2123.
Hollywood Aviators - It’s one thing to take a scenic flight around Los Angeles, it’s another to pilot the plane yourself, including take-off. Dan and crew are determined to make you the star of this picture! T: 818.994.2004
Torry Pines Gliderport - Tandem paragliding and hanggliding along a spectaular coastline (and over a nudist beach!) as well as the world famous Torrey Pines golf course. T: 858.452.9858
PCH Helicopters- Safety is REALLY important here, which is nice to know as you take a helicopter ride around L.A, seeing the city from the unique vantage point of a bird in the sky. T: 310.375.3394
Perris Valley Skydiving School - The capital of skydiving in California. Get in the Flying Shark and take a leap of faith you’ll never forget. T: 915.657.1664.
Spy School at Absolution - An unusual workout complex on Santa Monica Blvd, Sasha and friends have all the space, expertise and equipment to help you channel your inner Bond (or just have fun getting healthy). T: 310.657.7878 W:
Moran Raceway - The longest outdoor track in the US, it’s more than just racing in circles. Learn how to concentrate, drive, take corners, and appreciate speed from the Rocky Moran family of racers.
Bungee America - You’re safe in the hands of the oldest operating bungee company in the United States. This is the only company that has a license to jump a bridge in California, and also manufacture their own equipment.