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Lets face it, one of the most exciting things about coming to LAX is visiting the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. The show biz capital of the world offers travellers a window into the world of television and film making broadcasting. As an Aussie, I often cynically think of Hollywood with judgement often suggesting to myself ‘only in America’ could a city of people be so obsessed with glamour. When you're here, though and you let yourself be an onlooker, you may just realise that there is nothing quite as exhilarating as visiting a live set in Los Angeles. The idea of young actors and actresses flocking from all over the world to this one place, in search of fame, creates a unique city. One that you can observe and enjoy watching!

For an Aussie family, the theme parks of Disneyland and Universal Studios both entertain and give a glimpse into the entertainment industry. As you know the kids will love these parks. They are great. Many people do tours around Hollywood also, visiting the outside of many of the movie and television studios. You can also book studio tours which are fun to do but can be costly. (Sony Pictures Studio Tour, Paramount Pictures Studio Tour, Warner Bros Studio Tour, Universal Studios Tour). I have provided their links at the bottom of the blog. Check out their web sites they are cool browsing through, to get you in the mood before leaving Australia.

So here is the tip, the low down, the 411! Television shows are taped in Los Angeles on a daily basis, there are always shows being taped in studios and on locations across the city and you can go see them (with a bit of planning, a bit of cunning and a bit of good fortune). On a trip to the Redondo Beach’s ‘Cheesecake Factory’ (years ago), for example, my husband and I came across the filming of a CSI episode. Well that is what we thought it was anyway! We stood on the fenced off perimeter and watched them set up and tape scenes. I found it fascinating and the kids, although small, enjoyed it as well. It filled in two hours and we had a ball. To actually try and plan seeing one of these live outdoor sets is very difficult to organise, however many TV series are actually taped with an audience – so lets talk about that.

Sitting in the studio audience is always fun and exciting! What’s even better is that it is for free and you do get to see behind the scenes, and if your in Los Angeles make the most of it. See what the hypes about! You can pre book tickets for shows but there are often tickets for shows distributed on a standby basis as well.

One way you can find out what shows are being taped is by visiting http://www.tvtickets.com audiences unlimited, inc. The shows that they represent are all listed on this web site. The site tells you that tickets are released for most shows starting 30 days prior to show date. In some cases though minimum age restrictions may apply, so you will need to check that out before turning up. To view a taping of Big Bang Theory or Two Broke Girls for example you need to be over 18 years of age.

I would not recommend travelling solely to watch a taping of a particular show as many changes can happen. These tickets are not guaranteed entry and cancellations do occur. It is the sort of activity that if it happens is wonderful, but it is something you have to be flexible with, and roll with the punches. Many people book to attend and then simply don't turn up, so many studios over book (which then is a problem if everyone shows up). Arriving to the taping early for the best chance of getting in but not a guarantee. Some shows that have not filled up on line, will send out "audience hunters" who usually stand in front of the Chinese Theatre giving out same day tickets. I have used one of these tickets before and found it fabulous!

http://www.tvtickets.com

www.1iota.com

http://tvtix.com

http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/attractions/studio-tour/

http://www.wbstudiotour.com

http://www.paramountstudiotour.com

http://www.sonypicturesstudiostours.com

http://www.beinamovie.com

http://www.cbstelevisioncity.com/tickets

http://www.drphil.com/shows/page/be_in_the_audience/

http://www.ellentv.com/tickets/

http://www.ellentv.com/tickets/

http://www.mytvtickets.com