My name is Josh and I’ve been living in Downtown Los Angeles for a little over 8 years now. Downtown was NOT my first choice, not by a long shot. It was however, better than my former situation, a stunning house in the valley, with coke-head, out-of-work-actor roommates who just discovered that my stuff could be sold for their habit. My best friend from high-school Raina (who is much braver than I am), was already living here in The Spring Towers and told me about a vacancy. I took it. Granted, I planned on leaving in a few months before I got murdered on the streets, but I still took it. I’ve never looked back.
I discovered something amazing about Downtown LA. It seems big and daunting, with it’s towers and it’s one way streets, but it’s not. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Having grown up in The Valley and never knowing my neighbors I sensed it right away. If you close your eyes and picture picket fences instead of historic old banks it become instantly clear. We are a tiny-tiny, itsy-bitsy, little community, nestled among brick buildings and pocket parks.
Try experiencing it yourself, it’s easy! Start by going for a few drinks. Our neighborhood has some fantastic watering holes. I suggest Spring St. Bar or one of Cedd Moses’ quintessential Downtown spots. Go alone. It’s too easy to fall into conversational patterns when you’re with a friend. Don’t be afraid. Downtowners are naturally gregarious and welcoming of others like themselves who were willing to take a leap of faith and join the Loft Generation. Grab a drink. Find someone you’re not attracted to but who looks super cool. Go say hello. Start with a simple never fail question, “Hey are you a local?” follow with “I’m new in Downtown, (can be said by people with less than 2 years living here), got any good suggestions of places to hit”? That’s it! You’re done with step one! Enjoy. More to follow. 