Swimming Pools and Movie Stars

Hello All,

I was rather dreading the 12 hour layover I had in LA but it actually worked out wonderfully. I took a 45 minute bus to the Santa Monica Pier and enjoyed a platter from Bubba Gump Shrimp (fried shrimp of course) and then walked around on the beach and down Santa Monica Boulevard until it was nearing time to check in. Caught the bus back and boarded the plane for the 15 hour flight which I mostly slept through.

40 hours is a looooong time to be traveling. After four airports and three airplanes, I am finally in Perth. Things went smoothly overall, but I think I will never be able to take a North American plane again. On my LA to Melbourne flight I was supplied with a full meal, free blanket and pillow, on demand tv, movies and games, AND a goody bag which included snacks, toothpaste and a toothbrush, and, get this, SOCKS! I love it. My domestic flight to Perth included free alcohol and two helpings of ice cream. Air Canada they are not.

My friend Alyce picked me up at the airport and I stayed the night in the Witch's Hat hostel, so named for the Edwardian turret protruding from the roof. I have spontaneously made a hair appointment at the salon next door to this internet cafe, so we shall see how that turns out. I am, after all, on vacation!

Next goal, find a job!... maybe.

-A.