From the Hollywood/Western Metro station, exit and proceed to street level. The community of "Thai Town" is centered on Hollywood Boulevard (5300 - 5100 blocks) between Western and Normandie avenues. Head east on Hollywood Boulevard from the Hollywood/Western Metro station.

Begin your journey at Thailand Plaza (5321 Hollywood Blvd.; 323-993-9000) to purchase a garland of flowers, candles or incense and make a wish at the Thai spirit house. Walk next door to Dokya Bookstore (5321 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/464-7178) and purchase the latest edition of the Bangkok Post or books on Thailand, the Thai language and Thai culture.

For lunch, try the food court at Thailand Plaza (5321 Hollywood Blvd.). From cafeteria style to traditional Thai cuisine, finish with dessert and sample delicious Thai pastries, cakes and candies.

After lunch, stop at Siam Book Center(5178 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/665-4236) or Nuch Kanom Gift Shop (5138 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/663-6824) for beautiful Thai handicrafts including lacquer ware, ceramics, rattan, silk clothing, jewelry and genuine artifacts.

If you decide to make Thai Town a full day itinerary, enjoy a lively dinner at Palms Thai Restaurant (5900 Hollywood Blvd., Suite B; 323/462-5073). The food is authentic and the entertainment features an impressive Thai Elvis impersonator. For a more intimate, traditional setting, visit Ruen Pae Restaurant (5257 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/466-0153). While the night is still young, head for Krung Tedd Restaurant (5151 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/667-9800) for karaoke music, or back to the food court at Thailand Plaza for live performances by Thai entertainers. As the night winds down, stop in at Sanam Luang Cafe (5176 Hollywood Blvd.; 323/660-8006) for a hearty bowl of thom yum kung (hot and sour shrimp soup).