There’s fun to be had in all directions out of the city, and a host of tour companies ready to take you there. Taking a trip out of LA is a great way to see parts of the western US without having to venture out on your own or worry about driving. Overnight packages usually include hotel accommodation and admission to certain tours and attractions.

One of the most popular short trips away is a visit east to the bright lights of Las Vegas and the natural beauty of Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead. These two prime visitor hotspots can be combined on a three-day tour from LA, or companies can simply shuttle you to Vegas and leave you to it. For more information on things to see and do in Vegas, see the entry under Weekend Breaks.

San Francisco and San Diego are also both regular destinations for tour companies. For a small slice of Mexico, you can hop on an organised daytrip just across the border to Tijuana. A high cultural experience it may not be, but it’s an interesting spot for an afternoon of shopping. Be prepared to haggle for a good deal, and be sure to bring a valid passport to cross the US-Mexico border. Starline Tours (323 463 3333; www.starlinetours.com) and LA City Tours (888 800 7878; www.lacitytours.com) both offer trips out of town.