We arrived into LAX late in the evening of the 16th June after an 11 hour flight (with slight turbulence). I had 2 main meals on the plane as I was not full after the first and there was apparently lots left over. Was bumped a few times by the cabin crew who were not able to steer thier trollys well, and one guy dropped a reasonally heavy bag on my head as he was getting something out from the overhead compartment. Still, arrived in one piece, and when through customs - which was uneventful (though Em's guy did start by saying ... "Emily, are you a good child?". She must have convinced him so as he let her pass! few!. Then, going via baggage claim we were identified amongst the crowd and asked to go and get our baggage scanned. Im not sure what they were looking for as they either didnt see or just ignored the food, drugs and needles, scalples/knives we had in our lugage!!! Came out of the airport and caught a "taxicab" to Santa Monica to the hostel. Somehow they had messed up our reservation (for my bed) so Em and I werent able to stay in the same dorm, so had to split up for the evening (we sorted it today so we could change rooms and be in the same dorm). After an awkward nights sleep, I woke up at 6.30 and went for a walk before breakfast and then meeting Em, as we had arranged at 8.30. We then started our first day of adventure and walked to the bus stop and took a bus to Beverly Hills. We went to Rodeo Drive and looked at all the expensive and fashionable shops (D&G, Versace, Ralf Lauren, Tiffanys etc). After walking round for a while we took another couples of busses to the Farmers market where we went to Phil's Diner for a Cheese Burger and Dr Pepper (as the natives do!) and then on to Hollywood. We did the walk of stars and took a few photos, and went to see the place where all the stars put their hands in the concrete outside the old chinese theatre. We will try and attach the photos when we have a better internet connection. There were some cool cars about, esp the Dodge charger/challengers, and some Chevy Cameros! V8's sounded cool as did the Harly Davidson's that cruise past. Didnt see anyone famous though on our trip. We then came back to the hostel and have been sorting things out roomwise and for tomorrow. We plan to go to Venice beach where the outdoor gym on the beach is, and maybe do a few other things in Downtown LA. The flight to NZ is leaving at 9.30, so will aim to get to LAX check in at 5.00pm. Should be fine.

12 hours later, will be in Auckland and ready for our placements. Will update again soon.

Love Jez and Em xx