Hack LA Traffic to BlogWorld
Image via: Denise Taylor
LAX is 15 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles. I know what you’re thinking, “Ugh. That’s a HIKE!” (Not to mention a hit to your wallet). But have no fear, TechZulu is giving you the inside scoop on how to hack LA traffic and travel on a budget to BlogWorld.
SHARE A CAB
Plenty of you are heading to Los Angeles from other places. Why not give a shout out on Twitter that you’re looking to grab a cab, and when you’re arriving? Of course don’t forget to use the hashtag #BWELA so everyone else can find you. You’ll save green by going green!
SUBWAY
One of the lesser known facts about LA transportation is that the city actually has a SUBWAY! Yes, I’m sure many of my fellow Angelenos are gasping in shock right now, too. While the LA Metro system may not go everywhere, it DOES run from the airport to downtown.
The nearest Metro station to LAX is called “Aviation/LAX” on the Green Line. There are free shuttle buses from the lower level of all LAX terminals that will take you there. Take the train EAST to IMPERIAL/WILMINGTON station and transfer to the BLUE LINE. Your destination will be 7th STREET (one block from the LA Convention Center).
Alternatively, you can take the green line to the HARBOR FREEWAY stop and transfer to the SILVER LINE, exiting at UNION STATION. From here, you can take a cab to the convention center.
If you’re traveling between 4:15am and 11:45pm, you’ll be able to catch a train every 7-12 minutes.
- Metro cost: $1.50 for each boarding ($2.45 for the Silver Line)
- Cab cost: $46.50 (fixed fare from LAX to downtown LA)
SHARED VAN SERVICE
Many Angelenos rely on a 24-hour shared van service called SuperShuttle. These bright blue vans can be found at the lower level of all LAX terminals. You can either reserve a spot ahead of time or simply walk up to the representative holding the clipboard once you arrive to tell them your final destination. (The drivers prefer cash if you do it this way).
Shuttles come and go constantly, so you won’t be waiting long. While this will cut into your budget much more than the Metro fare, it’s a good option for people who want the convenience of getting downtown without the hassle of transferring trains.
- SuperShuttle cost: $20-$25 to downtown LA
- Cab cost: $46.50
Other tips and cost-saving ideas
- Share a rental car with other BlogWorld attendees. Of course, one sucker will have to be listed on the rental agreement but hey, you’ll have your own wheels and can even get out for a little sightseeing.
- To curb parking expenses, download the new Parking in Motion iPhone app. It will show you the most likely places to find free spots that are ALSO cost-effective.
- Kindly ask an Angeleno to pick you up at the airport.
- Consider purchasing a Metro Day Pass if you’re in town for extra time. For just five bucks you can take the subway to places like Hollywood and Highland to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame, or Universal Studios for a stroll on CityWalk.
- For a view of Los Angeles through a local’s eyes, download Urbandig on your iPhone.
Additional Resources
Angelenos – what are YOUR tricks for getting around LA on a budget?
