Meet Alex Harden who was born in England but grew up in South East Asia (Singapore, Tokyo and Hong Kong) before attending The University of Bath and then moving to LA six years ago to pursue a new life in the U.S.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I first visited Los Angeles in 1997 and at nine years old I fell in love with the city. My parents and I stayed for a week and I was lucky enough to spend that week attending an NFL game, a Lakers game, Kings game, visiting Disneyland and Universal Studios as well as exploring the city and beaches. Hard not to fall in love with a week like that.
We visited a few summers more and by the time I was ready to turn 21 I knew it was where I wanted to celebrate. From that, I decided upon graduating university it was where I wanted to move to.
What do you miss most from home?
Pubs, family and friends (in that order haha)
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
Not a bit. It always felt like a world of wonders waiting to be explored and in many ways I feel like that today. I think it is a hugely entrepreneurial city with opportunities for anyone that is willing to work hard and take chances.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus London?
The obvious answer is the weather. In truth, I do think that plays a big part in how you approach your day-to-day life and gives a level of positivity that doesn’t always exist in the U.K. That said, it is a melting pot of people, which is exciting, but you do have to be careful to whom you give your energy and time.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
The Sunset Tower Bar (not exactly hidden but such a lovely setting with the genuine feel of old Hollywood). Kings Road Coffee (kick starts my heart daily).
My mom’s kitchen (invite only but the best food in LA, hands down. Also makes a mean G&T)
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Go for it, but understand it takes a while to find your bearings and the area you live in has a significant impact on your lifestyle. Most people I know move 4+ times before settling on their neighborhood.
Lastly, how can we find out more about you ? Are you working on anything at the moment?
I own a men’s clothing brand called Bordo Los Angeles
– www.bordolosangeles.com and instagram @bordolosangeles
