Off the topic of Cabaye for a wee while...

I remember previous threads on living/visiting the US, but I wanted to pick the brains of the current expats and US-based fans on here.

I'm relocating to LA and although I know it's difficult to condense this behemoth of a city into a couple of hotspots, I would love some advice on where and how to follow the Palace from abroad. Any bars north of Downtown/east of Hollywood, for example?

Also, any other hints and tips for a brand new Brit abroad would be greatly appreciated, having never even visited California before.

Thanks in advance!

ps: I'm not Steven Gerrard

Hi GooseGreenEagle,

I'm guessing you'll be in the Pasadena area based on the way you zoned your search for a bar. In Southern California, a group of Palace supporters assembles at The Olde Ship in Santa Ana -- way south of Downtown in Orange County -- but the attendance there is a bit spotty.

A general list of bars with Premier League coverage closer to your zone can be found here in case you want to start your own ex-pats group closer to your new home: [Link]

On the other hand, because you'll now be living in America, you'll have access to every Palace game on TV/online streaming thanks to NBC Sports Network after you pick up a cable TV package.

On general stuff regarding California: I hope you're getting a car and a driver's license. Sure, the traffic will be a pain in the butt, but the scenic mountains and palm trees are a sight to behold when you're cruising the roads and freeways of Southern California.

To really appreciate the landscape of the area, check out the Griffith Observatory/hike or horseback ride Griffith Park or visit the Getty Villa.

Make your first fast food trip to In-N-Out Burger, and ask for a Double Double Animal style burger. There's also a great dessert place in West Hollywood/the Fairfax district called Milk, which has a wide assortment of ice creams and cakes.

And definitely check out the comedy scene. Upright Citizens Brigade in Hollywood is my personal favorite, but great stand-up can be found in places like The Comedy Store or any of the "Improv" clubs scattered all over the region.

If you're looking for anything specific, let me know! And good luck with the move and welcome!

BOOM!

My mate lives just outside south LA in Mission Viejo.

[Link]

What a lovely place... his house backs on to the golf and country club.

[Link]

Visited him a while back and took in all the sights etc.

Venice/Muscle Beach is a great place, LA is massive, loads of great bars, clubs.

Also saw the Lakers play at the Staples centre... we were court side with the celebrities!

Oh, nice! Silver Lake's a diverse and vibrant neighborhood. You'll enjoy sampling the local cuisine there.

The Metro bus and rail system in LA is still a work in progress, but it's definitely gotten better the last few years in terms of how far you can go.

Anyway, the Premier League coverage by NBC Sports is top notch. Studio coverage is headed by Rebecca Lowe and NBC goes to great lengths to capture the atmosphere at each ground; the broadcasters know when to stay silent.

BOOM!

Stayed in Santa Monica a few weeks back, and attempted to get a bus to the walk of fame. Took us nearly 2 hours on a bus!!

Uber is definitely the way forward in LA. So cheap compared to everywhere else I've taken it.

Try the Kings Head pub in Santa Monica.My local when I lived in Venice for a year,years ago.Phone up,I think they show games but likely many fans from many clubs there.

I'll be in LA for the Chelsea away game (W. Hollywood);not looking forward to the 7am kick off to watch it!Anyone who might be around,pm me.