from the editor …

Dearest STC readers,

I’m so excited to be kicking of the second season of Survive the City since our re-launch in 2007.  STC is committed to providing you with all the fun survival tips you’ll need to make it in style in this great big city of angels.  We’re even gearing up for a bit of a website facelift.  Afterall, this is Los Angeles, and everyone needs a makeover now and then.  Stay tuned and check back regularly because we’ve got more to offer than ever before.

Let’s Wine and ….Shine

What better way to kick off the season than a great event in beautiful Santa Monica!?  Join Survive the City, Tuesday September 22nd at SALUTE in Santa Monica for wine, food, fashion, music and more.

Here are the details:

• the event starts at 7pm at Salute (2435 Main Street, Santa Monica).

• It’s $15 to get in the door or $75 for a table which includes a bottle of wine.

There will be wine tastings, appetizer pairings, live music and designer fashion shows and a whole lot more.  STC is going to be there and we can’t wait to see you!

RSVP by contacting popboxmusicandevents@gmail.com with the number attending

Given the current state of the economy, the country, the world, it would be
insensitive to spend wads of cash on entertainment, even if you had said wads. Hence, we explore cheap thrills in the city so that you don’t have to add boredom to broke-ness.

Movies on a budget

A movie ticket during peak hours is currently $12.00 to $13.00, which is obscene when you consider it would take a person two hours working minimum wage to fork over that amount. However, a matinee at any theater is at least three or four dollars less. If you’re annoyed by the crowds and architecture at places like the Grove, you should join the Cinefamily at the Silent Movie Theater. $25 a month gets you admission to all of their screenings, free admission to any members-only events, and a free bucket of popcorn. They don’t play the usual movie fare; a recent series celebrated Disturbing and Inappropriate Kid’s Films.

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It’s confusing these days, to quote David Bowie. Deciding on glasses, I mean. (The whole world should have such problems, no?) The reign of big ol’ 70s glasses seems nowhere near over, and yet so many of the tastemakers are wearing more demure shapes these days–or at least different shapes: the classic Wayfarers, a la Audrey Hepburn, and the cartoony-brainy-chic round glasses, of late a la Harry Potter. Continue reading »

For those of you active folk living here in LA, perhaps Tennis is your cup of tea.  However, if you come from somewhere outside of LA, you may not be used to some of the things involved in playing Tennis out here in Los Angeles.  In his blog, tennis enthusiast Nachshon Draiman says, “Tennis has become a very popular sport that enthusiasts would always like to play.” This is true and it is perhaps this popularity that makes it a bit difficult to play in LA. Continue reading »

Tritoni Purple Gold watch

It’s the latest thing in watch-wear since the Swatch! Seriously, they say everyone is wearing it and that it is going to be the latest, greatest new thing.

Now if I could just figure out who “they” is…

Well, Survive the City wanted to check it out, so we did a bit of research and a little asking around, and yes, they were right!

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Beauty and fitness go hand in hand here in LA and everywhere, so if you live in Los Angeles and you’ve made that resolution to lose weight or tone up, finding a gym that you can live with is key. Not only is convenient location a qualifying bit of data, but the friendliness of the staff and state of the equipment must also be factored in. So if you’re quite finished with the holiday treats (ahem!), have a look at our top three picks. Continue reading »

The economy has hit all of us hard in the wallet, including those of us who live in LA, so finding fun things to do for free is vital in keeping us happy and the kiddies as well! Although we immediately think we have to dole out the bucks every time we leave the house, if you live in Los Angeles, there are plenty of things to do that don’t cost you a thing. Whether you are looking for a place to wile away a day while you are on Christmas break, or need something to keep out of town guests out of your hair, check out these free, fun ideas. Continue reading »

Not your Mama’s Goodwill or discount clothing bin, vintage clothing and item stores in Los Angeles are anything but hand me down sweatshirts or tennis shoes. Whether you are looking for true vintage gowns from the 1940’s or casual classics from the 1950’s shopping the vintage stores in LA is an event. Although there are numerous options at every price point for treasure hunters like yourself, here are a few faves that will have you cracking open your wallet. Continue reading »

Some people need snow to have a great Holiday season, but in LA, there’s plenty to make the season merry without the white stuff. Whether it’s the nostalgic sound of carolers or thousands of Christmas lights blinking you into a hypnotic state, Los Angeles offers its community plenty to get them into the Christmas spirit. Continue reading »

Enjoy tasty dining locations with a unique twist? Not only does this restaurant have great food, but the atmosphere is excellent too. The floor actually has a fish tank built right into it! Continue reading »