On a regular basis, working at LAX, I am asked by travellers where a good place would be to spend a few hours while waiting for their next flight.
My answer is always the same: the Howard Hughes Center.
While the centre may not be found on any list of "things to do" or travel brochures on Los Angeles, its close proximity to LAX - in the very pleasant Culver City - makes this tranquil setting an ideal place to kill a lazy afternoon.
Although filled with entertainment, the open-styled promenade seems to be free of the bustle or busy feel of most malls, instead capturing the laid-back attitude associated with the Southern Californian lifestyle.
Visitors will be struck immediately by the stunning oasis that awaits them - abundant greenery and a particularly soothing water feature, accentuated aesthetically by the region's flawless sunny weather.
While relaxing on the mezzanine level, visitors can take in the contrast of the tropical nature surrounding them, and the initially startling sight of an always-busy 14-lane highway behind them.
The promenade at Howard Hughes provides tourists and locals with a number of distinctly American stores - including Wetzel's Pretzels and Stefano's New York pizza by the slice - but also has a very cosmopolitan array of dining options.
Browsing through the centre, tourists can get an idea of just how spoilt for choice people in these parts are - the variety available of just one product or accessory exemplified here in certain stores.
Hat stands, with every type of dress hat imaginable, and even a belt-buckle stand, with options including The Who, Led Zeppelin and The Beatles logos, among many others, are sure to keep window-shoppers amused.
Perhaps the most interesting of these comprehensive selections is found in Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, where a whole new meaning is given to the term "candy apple" [toffee apple].
There are 28 different options.
Speaking of things distinctly American, there is possibly nothing more so than settling down with a bucket of popcorn to enjoy the latest new blockbuster at a movie theatre (often before it has been released down under).
What better place to do that than in the mammoth IMAX theatre, a part of the very contemporary Bridge Cinemas.
Once finished, movie-goers can recount their favourite moments over a martini at the cinema's classy 12 Lounge Restaurant and Bar, or can stretch their legs at Putting Edge mini golf course.
Just remember to be back at the airport two hours before flight departure to avoid any unnecessary complications.
