Los Angeles epitomizes the seductive image of sunny Southern California with its wide, palm-fringed boulevards; exclusive designer boutiques; trendy restaurants; and sun-drenched sandy beaches. Despite being a sprawling urban metropolis, the city has pleasant neighborhoods, spacious parks, and refreshing beachfront promenades. The city established its raison d'être during the film industry boom of the 1920s and 30s and is still synonymous with Tinseltown glitz and glamour.