Get away with the girls in the city of angels 

By Casey Wohl

It wasn't until last year that I made my very first trip to LA, a city I'd wanted to visit for so long. Nikki, my fashionista cousin, and I booked our trip and could not Casey Wohlwait to get there to see celebrities, indulge in great shopping, sample fabulous food and enjoy the fantastic weather.

Here's what we did, where we ate and where we shopped.

Fred Segal is an LA-based clothing store synonymous with celebrity shopping and essential fashion. There are currently two Fred Segal stores: one in Hollywood (on Melrose Avenue) and the other in Santa Monica.

Rodeo Drive is a must visit. As we walked down the street, we couldn't help reminisce about Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, dressed in distasteful clothing and being shunned by the store attendants. We didn't receive that treatment and had a great afternoon strolling through the fabulous stores.

The Ivy, located on Robertson Blvd, is an Italian-inspired restaurant featuring a unique and trendy garden meets shabby chic feel. I had the most amazing Lobster Ravioli, and the Bloody Mary was excellent. Fresh grilled fish and soft-shell crab, along with unique salads are popular. The Ivy is also known for its celeb sightings.

Although we didn't see them, we heard Kate Hudson and Owen Wilson were having lunch while we were there.

Koi Restaurant brings the best of Japanese-California fusion to LA. Guests can nestle in a lush, gardenlike feng shui setting. Tranquility and delicious food and drink provide a wonderful dining experience. Reservations are recommended and valet parking is available. Koi is also a popular celeb hangout.

The Peninsula Hotel is an exquisite and luxurious hotel that feels more like a huge mansion. Even if you don't stay there, be sure to have brunch at The Rooftop Grill. This fabulous garden oasis provides alfresco dining that you can enjoy for hours. The hotel also offers its famous afternoon tea each day in the living room.

Winston's (7746 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood) is a small, cozy Hollywood hot spot we frequented during our visit. We learned that Lindsay Lohan had been there the night before. Be sure to go early as this place fills up fast.

It's unmarked and barely detectable by driving by...the obvious draw for the rich and famous.

Got a question for the Getaway Girl? Email us and she'll answer them and likely throw in a few freebie tips as well.