Really hazy this morning - seemed actually overcast - for our last day in the US of A!! Took some time to repack and fill our new suitcase. Walked across to La Cienega blvd and caught the bus down to the Beverly Centre - I wanted to have a shop a Ross, where I managed to get a few bargains in Las Vegas. Had some success then it was breakfast in a bakery coffee shop before getting bus back. We then had to lock up the bags, check out and leave them with the concierge. Had about four hours or so to fill in before coming back to hotel and getting cab to airport. Trudged up La Cienega blvd to Sunset Blvd and wandered along the strip (tough going in the heat). In all honesty pretty disappointing as many areas run down and fairly daggy. Caught a bus further into Hollywood then walked across to Hollywood Blvd. Went back to our DSW shoe store to sort out a credit and our email contact ( plus bought a couple more pairs while there!) . Wandered in the other direction along Hollywood blvd for a while - tone and appearance certainly didn't seem to improve dramatically. Seemed to be an abundance of tattoo parlours, shops selling wigs and outrageous dress up costumes interspersed with tacky souvenir shops and bars. Had a bite to eat before heading back, doing a quick reorganise before getting cab to airport (organised fixed price - $45). Traffic being Friday afternoon was fairly intense but arrived at Terminal 3 before 6pm so plenty of time before 9.10pm departure. Check in and customs reasonably quick so had time for couple of drinks and snack, sitting at the window looking out at our plane.

Hard to believe our 5 week expedition is all over! Certainly won't miss living out of a suitcase but will miss all the fun and constant new experiences.

Every aspect of our American adventure was brilliant - all modes of transport, our variety of accommodation, the food, the amazing sights and, especially the people. We were treated incredibly well virtually everywhere, always feeling safe and comfortable. We were often told "we love you Aussies!" - which made us feel both humble and proud. The end of a truly wonderful adventure!