Day 1 - 8th Jan

So, we are finally away! First blog entry has taken a while to come, so have lots to update! First Day away was an eventful day all round, had a surprisingly emotional send off at the airport. I suppose I didn't expect so many people to be sending us off; they were probably making sure that we were actually going! As usual we don't really do anything typically and backpacking is the same, we managed to get upgraded through Murden's connections so in a very non-backpacking way flew to Los Angeles in First Class! Never had such an enjoyable flight out! Knowing full well that this would be the last bit of luxury that we would have for 6 months, we took full advantage of all amenities that were in the first class lounge and on the plane. Took off in luxury with a class of champagne toasting our impending journey! Flight was so comfy, I think all of us were wishing that we could stay on there permanently, bit of a difference going from first class travel to staying in a hostel! We enjoyed our three course meal, settled back to watch some films (High School Musical 2 and Hairspray) and reclined on our beds for a slight nap to the sounds of the Spice Girls!

Arrival in the US was pretty much what I expected, being greeted by a crazy American Jesus man asking for donations!! Although saying this he did try and give us some useful advice wish pretty much went into one ear and out the other! Trying not to look %u2018new%u2019 was not easy especially when you are arriving in such a big place full of new sites, so riding in a yellow taxi pointing and taking pictures of the driver possibly gave the game away, oh well!

Hostel was pretty much as expected, clean, friendly but basic! Had a little time exploring, but inevitably knackered from the journey so bed time was 7.30pm.