Last day in the USA

We slept in a little this morning and then breakfasted on Pine Avenue in Long Beach.  Yet another gorgeous day (we were very lucky with the weather) today, so we drove south down Long Beach, Seal Beach to Huntington Beach, where we walked down to the pier and watched a little of a surfing competition in action. The beach was wide and well populated, being a Saturday. The water was a little cool but very clear.

I was keen to go to Macy’s (a US department store) and when I asked the GPS, she directed us to one not far away. We arrived to a very large and attractive centre called South Beach Plaza, where we both found happy bargains.

It was a quick trip back to the hotel in easy traffic (weekends definitely the pick of travel times) for a dip in the hotel’s rooftop pool.

An early dinner at the Yard House again and it was time for me to pack and prepare to leave. The hotel booked a town car for me, as that seemed to be the easiest way for me to get to LAX. It cost no more than a cab, and was worth the money for the convenience. It was a fast trip and a quick check in for my Virgin Australia flight.

Unfortunately my lounge membership doesn’t work here, and there is not much to do here in Terminal 3. No duty free, limited restaurants, two newsagents and that’s all. Still, it does have free wi-fi and so I’ve finally written this blog. I have the best intention to write it every day, but this trip, like the last to Hawaii, were very busy.

We loved LA. We had a wonderful 4 days and are both very much looking forward to coming back as soon as we can. With our dollar so strong it’s a comfortable place to be – the taxes and tipping are all affordable  and not something to begrudge in addition to the listed prices. The people all seem pleasant and helpful. Staff actually want to help. The weather is incredible.