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Sandi Hemmerlein

sandi

Sandi Hemmerlein is a writer and photographer. Based in L.A. but constantly on the prowl for new adventure, she spends most of her time nurturing her interest in birds, animals, neon, historic theaters, puppets, trains, folk art, and stained glass. In addition to her work for PBS SoCal, Sandi also documents everything on her own website Avoiding Regret.

sandi
Close-up view of cherry blossoms in Little Tokyo.
While L.A. may be more closely associated with palm trees lining its sidewalks and streets, this sprawling city and its surrounding municipalities is actually a horticultural delight of varied treescapes. Here are seven spots to get a glimpse of great blossoms.
The landscape along the Desert Willow Trail at Big Morongo Canyon.
It's not too late to explore the High Desert this year, but you won't be the only squeezing in a last-minute trip. Here are five lesser-known destinations that offer all the the wonders of the High Desert without the big crowds.
A view of LAX airport with planes docked in the runway.
Travel might not be quite like the "Before Times" quite yet — or ever — but it's entirely doable. And it can still be wonderful. Here are seven tips for traveling during the pandemic as COVID-19 guidelines shift.
The view at the Slot Canyon Overlook.
There's more to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park than the wildflower blooms. Avoid the crowds and explore six of Anza-Borrego's lesser-known gems.
A silver jeep sits on a dirt path with a wide view of Death Valley behind it.
Though breathtaking and spectacular, SoCal deserts present a special set of challenges even for the most seasoned traveler. Here are some tips to make sure that your next desert trip is a safe journey.
Locals walk along the coast of Victoria Beach as the medieval looking tower stands over them.
While most people hit the ocean to catch a wave, here are five SoCal beaches that offer more than just the typical surf and sand.
The landscape at Whitewater Preserve
Whether you’re an off-roader, a two-legged trekker or even an earthquake tourist, here are five great outdoor destinations in the Coachella Valley — no festival pass needed.
Exterior of the Troubadour in West Hollywood.
Whether you’ve got your own wheels or need to borrow some, here are some fascinating points of interest along the first mile of West Hollywood — from intriguing public art to a cornucopia of architectural styles, and even some rock and roll history.
Two rows of colorfully lit Christmas trees at Hikari – A Festival of Lights at Tanaka Farms. | Sandi Hemmerlein
Haul out the holly and fill up the stockings. We need a little Christmas! Here are some of the best drive-thru holiday experiences in Southern California.
Ballona Lagoon “Lighthouse” Bridge | Sandi Hemmerlein
Here’s where to find five of L.A.’s most scenic bridge crossings — and why they’re fascinating destinations in their own right.
Malibu Wine Hikes take visitors through the Semler family’s Saddlerock Ranch vineyards | Sandi Hemmerlein
Looking for outdoor options beyond your local park or playground? Here’s a guide to going off the beaten path with some of the best open-air attractions SoCal has to offer. 
A stilt-walker poses at Knott's Taste of Fall-O-Ween. | Sandi Hemmerlein
Halloween 2020 is not canceled. It’s just a little different this year. Whether it’s established attractions or inaugural events that might become future Halloween standbys, here are five great ways to scare up some extra spooks this October. 
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