Weekend Guide

I don’t watch much TV but one of the things I do watch is the Travel Channel’s “No Reservations” starring writer and heavy weight chef Anthony Bourdain.  While Bourdain seems to have a serious disdain for vegetarians and doesn’t lead the most eco friendly lifestyle, he definitely gives you insight into cultures and groups that are often forgotten about on the tourist trail.  There is definitely value in that, plus watching him travel allows me to see the sights without flying (though it does provide me inspiration for my next international destination-which will be offset by Terra Pass of course.)  He is speaking at UCLA today so call NOW if you want to attend.  P.S. to sweeten the deal the Kogi Korean BBQ Truck will be at the event, if you haven’t had a chance to try them, please do.  And if you see Anthony, tell him the tofu tacos are to die for.

Location:  UCLA Extension Restaurant Industry Conference at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel, 6101 W. Century Blvd., Westchester,  MAP Date/Time:  Thursday, March 26, at 12:45 p.m.  RSVP online here.  *Admission is $425 (argh) but the event is all day.  Maybe you can just sneak in for the book signing instead.

This Friday March 27th, the Los Angeles Bicycle Coalition is bringing Car Free Fridays back to Los Angeles.  To start things off, City Council Member Tom LaBonge will be joining cycling commuters starting at the North Hollywood Metro Station. The ride will follow the Orange Line to the Van Nuys Metro Orange Line Station.  After the ride, cyclists can grab a cup of coffee, have some breakfast and share stories (and perhaps vent your complaints to an elected official too.)  If you want to get more involved, take the pledge and try to get two friends or co-workers to join in.  If you do get friends to join you, please email aurisha@la-bike.org and you and your friends will receive a free gift!

Location:  North Hollywood Metro Station, Lankershim Bl. & Chandler Bl., North Hollywood, CA 91601, MAP Date/Time:  Friday, March 27, 8 AM   No need to RSVP, just show up.  Don’t forget to email Aurisha@la-bike.org if you get friends to join you. Website: http://la-bike.org/

Head to the Undesigned Studio Boutique in Los Feliz for some delicious tea, refreshments and store wide discounts.   You’ll find handcrafted ALIATO handbags made from recycled vintage books, also known as “book bags.”  If you don’t find one you fancy, designer Alexandria See can custom make one for you.   Also receive a special discount of 30% for individuals that purchase or commission an ALIATO handbag.

Location: UNDESIGNED Studio Boutique, 1953 1/2 Hillhurst Ave. Los Angeles CA 90027, MAP Date/Time:  Saturday, March 28, 1-5 p.m.  Web: http://undesigned.com

The concept behind Earth Hour is rather simple, turn off your lights for one hour from 8:30-9:30 p.m. and participate in an international movement to create awareness for Climate Change.  Check out our most recent Green Living post to see the people behind Earth Hour and to find Local Events taking place throughout Los Angeles.

Location:  All Round Los Angeles   Date/Time:  Saturday, March 28, 8:30-9:30 p.m.  Web: http://www.earthhour.org/home/ View Local Events Going On Here.

Do you love cupcakes?  Do you wish you could do a taste test of all of the delicious cupcakes throughout Los Angeles?  Well you no longer have to wish for it, as it is about to come true.  Come see the Nesquik Cupcake Challenge and see the best bakeries of Los Angeles and Orange County battle it out to be the best cupcake in southern California. You know your sweet tooth really wants you to attend.

Location:  Renaissance Hollywood Hotel 1755 N. Highland Ave.  Los Angeles, CA 90028, MAP Date/Time:  Sunday, March 29, 1:00-4:00 p.m.    Web: http://www.drinkeatplay.com/cupcakechallenge/ Admission:  $40, RSVP here.

A Soolip Wedding bridal event has been taking place for ten years now.  Three years ago they began inviting a small selection of eco friendly vendors.  Each year that number has grown as more and more companies are becoming aware of their environmental impact.  If your planning a wedding and need some inspiration to go green, head over to A Soolip Wedding this Sunday.  Topics of interest include catering, decor, invitations, catering, gift registry and more.  This year the event will be implementing its own green initiatives that include using compostables, composting food and floral waste and recycling at the event.

Location:  The  Vibiana, 210 South Main St.  Downtown Los Angeles, CA 90012,  MAP Date/Time:  Sunday, March 29, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  Admission: $35 in advance, $45 at the door.   Purchase tickets here. Web:  http://www.asoolipwedding.com/