Currently at Irvine right now, I feel like the rich and superficial has died down. Definitely outweighed by the beaches and close proximity to theme parks and great shopping areas. Really quiet and safe, probably the only place I wouldn't be afraid to walk on the street alone in the dead of night. And we just won the Men's Volleyball National Championship against USC, woot!
UCLA area is great! lots of boutiques and little places to eat. finally checked out MILK after meaning to for several years, and the museums are always fun!