I have the same experience here in New Zealand. In this country LA is regarded as a refuelling town for Air New Zealand flights enroute to Old London Town. Even New York can sound flyover city in Kiwis' eyes. The only country that matters to them beyond Australia and the (South) Pacific is Britain and perhaps bits of Europe.
I love the image of LA as just a refueling town! Wait till I tell my brother who thinks LA is the center of the universe. (He doesn't travel much either!)