Southern California

Southern California is a geographic and cultural region that generally comprises the southernmost counties of California. It is the second most populous urban agglomeration in the United States, after the New York metropolitan area. The region contains ten counties: Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Ventura, and Kern counties.

Geography

Southern California is a major economic center for the state of California and the United States. It is home to many of the state's largest cities, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and Long Beach. The region is known for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic diversity, and sprawling metropolis.

Economy

The economy of Southern California is one of the largest in the world, with a gross regional product (GRP) of over $1 trillion. The region's economy is largely driven by international trade, entertainment (television, motion pictures, video games, music recording, and production), aerospace, technology, petroleum, fashion, apparel, and tourism.

Culture

Southern California is also home to a large homegrown surf and skateboard culture. Companies such as Vans, Volcom, Quiksilver, No Fear, RVCA, and Body Glove are all headquartered here. Southern California is also important to the world of yachting with premier events including the annual Transpacific Yacht Race, or Transpac, from Los Angeles to Hawaii.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Southern California is heavily influenced by Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean cuisine. The region is known for its locally sourced ingredients and for being the birthplace of the fast-food phenomenon. In addition to major chains such as McDonald's and Taco Bell, Southern California is home to many gourmet, regionally inspired fast food chains such as In-N-Out Burger, The Habit, and El Pollo Loco.