Ever feel like just getting away? But what if you went away for say the weekend and then felt lonesome once you got there? Ah the irony, but there is something that you can do when you feel like the walls are closing in on you, something that you can always stop once you’ve had enough. Why not spend a day or a good fraction of the day with just yourself and the strangers who surround you. Throw caution to the wind and recharge your batteries by yourself, with yourself for yourself. Spend a day around town, do something out of the norm, see what your city has to offer.

Never has there been a more opportune place for fun and excitement than the city of Angels. L.A.: where your car is not only your means of transportation but your mobile duffle bag and your biggest accessory, just think of the possibilities. Maybe today is a day you wish to find refuge in the city, treat yourself to a tasty meal, and roam the isles of department stores for hours on end.

It’s good to be alone sometimes, gives life a new perspective, lets face it, we are all tethered to our cell phones anyway, and it’s not like pulling a disappearing act if we take a little time for ourselves. Oh what oh what should you do with so many possibilities and so much to choose from?

Why not get a manicure, or catch a flick, enjoy some tiramisu at a nearby Italian café, take a yoga class or browse the local book store. Give your skin a nice glow with a ten minute tanning session or a facial, unwind in the sauna at your gym, or check out the latest releases at your favorite record store.

Take a stroll in the park or down a busy street, window shop, have some sushi, some ice cream, a boba beverage, or a fresh croissant. Spend some time in an internet café, visit an art gallery, try on some shoes, get a massage or just spend an afternoon at the mall. Remember the golden rule, do not, I repeat do not run any errands; this is a time to be footloose and fancy free and simply enjoy.

For an assortment of great hot spots look no further than The Grove at 6301 W. 3rd Street, Los Angeles. In the mood to browse a department store why not check out what’s new at Nordstrom. Perhaps you want to graze the isles of Banana Republic, or Arden B, or the affordable and trendy Forever 21. Why not check out the hottest and latest trends of the year at Barneys New York, or Michael Kors or at one of the many other great fashion stops. There is much to choose from when you feel like making it a shopping ordeal.

Feel like getting lost in a movie then see what’s playing at the adjacent movie theatre. Have a scrumptious meal or enjoy a tasty dessert at one of the many restaurants The Grove has to offer. See what’s cooking at Wood Ranch BBQ and Grill, enjoy American comfort food at The Farm of Beverly Hills, or have a tasty pizza slice at La Piazza.

Remember to keep your day light and fun, it’s a time to unwind and enjoy the city in all its glory. Maybe you’d like to visit the Barnes & Noble also located in the plaza. There you can enjoy a good book, with a freshly brewed Starbucks coffee or latté, tea, or a scone. You can lose yourself in this tiny universe of dining, shopping and entertainment for hours without ever getting bored. The Grove is also host to many different events; you can check their schedule for current and upcoming attractions.

However you choose to spend your alone day just make sure to keep it light and ever so fun. The Grove is just one of the many great clusters of stores and restaurants you can visit. L.A. is full of fun and interesting plazas catering to all tastes. Just don’t wear yourself out, this is solely meant for your enjoying and your enjoyment alone.

By: Lucky Clover