NavanTravel

Early October I was lucky to take part in an Educational trip to sunny California. We flew to Los Angeles, and spent 2 nights in Newport Beach and 2 nights in Hollywood. It was my first time in the US (if I don’t count a short layover in Atlanta) so I was excited about everything. Skyscrapers, 7 lane highways, Macy’s, Walk of Fame, Hollywood sign, huge burgers, Universal Studios, people with a typical American smile…you name it! I finally saw all those things that I knew from American movies in a real life, and it was great.

Getting There

We flew with Virgin Atlantic via London Heathrow. Our group of 12 people was treated with a Premium Economy class on the longhaul sector which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. Comfortable leather seats, extra leg room, vast selection of movies and complimentary drinks made the 11 hour flight easily manageable, and we also had an access to the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse at both Heathrow and LAX Airport. I have never used Virgin Atlantic before but now I can definitely recommend them.

Newport Beach

We spent the first 2 nights in Newport Beach which is a coastal resort about 50 miles South from downtown Los Angeles. It is a very relaxed upmarket area perfect for a few nights getaway. There is a white sandy beach and a lovely marina that I highly recommend visiting. We hired electric bikes to explore the area and it was arguably a highlight of the whole trip for me. Even if you are feeling lazy, give it a go because you don’t have to peddle at all. The bike does all the work for you and you just enjoy the scenery. Then we did a trip on an electric Duffy boat which allowed us to see Newport Beach from a different perspective (and also made me realise I will never be rich enough to buy one of those yachts!). If you want to do some shopping, head to Fashion Island Shopping Mall which was just across the street from our hotel (Island Hotel Newport Beach – one of the nicest hotels I have ever stayed in and delicious breakfast).

Hollywood

After Newport Beach we made our way to Los Angeles and spent 2 nights in the fabulous Loews Hotel in the heart of Hollywood. I can’t describe my excitement when we were getting closer I got a glimpse of the famous Hollywood sign. Right after check in, I bought a coffee in Starbucks and I took the Walk of Fame (which was just around the corner from the hotel) and let me tell you, it couldn’t feel more American to me!

 

Universal Studios & Downtown LA

Los Angeles is a city of endless opportunities. My favourite activities were visiting Universal Studios Hollywood and Skyspace Los Angeles. The day we went to the Universal Studios happened to be my birthday, and I think I will never forget it. It is a great fun for the whole family. In one afternoon I got to visit Hogwarts, Springfield, SpongeBob, Shrek, King Kong and more. Definitely get a Front of the Line Pass if you are going because we wouldn’t see half of the things we did without it (some queues were never ending!).

My second favourite place was OUE Skyspace LA which is an open-air observation deck in downtown Los Angeles. It was amazing to see the city from above! All of a sudden I felt so small. There is an outdoor slide 70 floors up which I of course had to try, and angel wings painted on the wall for great profile pictures.

I’m really grateful I had a chance to experience a few things that LaLaLand has to offer. The organisers prepared a fantastic itinerary for us packed with exciting activities. Although the trip was only 4 days long, I really liked the fact it was a combination of the Beach and the City. If you are planning a trip to California and you need my advice, feel free to contact me. Would I come back? Absolutely!