Our last day in the USA was a frustrating one. Our flight with V Australia was Sunday at 8.35pm but the best we could do at our hotel for a late check out was 2pm. After 2pm we had another 2.5hrs to fill before we were picked up by the shuttle bus. It arrived right on time to take us to the LA Airport. That shuttle trip took 45 min to get us to the airport 3 hours before take off.
Everything went ok, until I declined an offer to remove my new braces from my pants....".bad mistake" especially when passing through US customs and immigration. My action led to a full body search and "pat down"
My reason for keeping braces on was that I have lost a kilo or 2 while on hols and my already loose pants would hit the floor without some serious holding up.... I'm not one to seek such attention but I knew the metal clips would send any metal detector into a panic....however , no explanation by me was going to change the US govt officials mind or his desire to follow all protocols.
After being a public spectacle for more than 5 minutes with arms out and legs well spread I was cleared for the take-off
The plan took off on time ..but that 15.5 hours journey is a killer
We were picked up at Melbourne Airport by our wonderful neighbors, who got us home for what we thought would be a hot shower and a good sleep, but alas that wasn't to be, jet lag, time changes and about 36 hours without sleep meant that for the 4 nights, we have been up and down at all hours, but I can now report we are almost back to normal routine.
We had a wonderful holiday in the US and would encourage anyone with an interest in it to go. The country side is truly "grand" with the whole gamut of inspiring land and seascapes. There are great towns and cities to explore. Some towns are new and flashes others old and historic with lots of character The National Parks in the US are fantastic, they are so well run and give everyone the chance to enjoy and appreciate such great countryside. We found the people helpful and very friendly. The cost of holidaying in the US is considerably cheaper to a similar self drive holiday you could have in Australia.
We found the food the most difficult to adjust too, different flavours, lots of sugar and salt and frying oils, but we coped and survived.However we also had some great meals and enjoyed a few good beers and wines
This holiday will long live in our memory...... we hope you liked following our adventure.
Well that's it folks... RUMBELOW'S USA HOLIDAY 2011.
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