After a long Uber ride in LA traffic we arrived at today's entertainment destination, Universal Studios. This is located in the hills behind Hollywood and is big enough to have its own postcode, police and fire departments. It appeared to be not very busy which was a win for us as this meant not having long queues for the rides. Once we got through security and the gate we headed straight for the back lot tour. This is when you sit in a cart and they show you the sets used to make shows/movies. There was not much movement in the sets as it was still early, but there were people around getting ready to do some filming later in the day. We had 2 3D experiences with King Kong and Fast and the Furious which were very good. We also got to experience a flash flood, an earthquake in a San Francisco underground station and Jaws. This was here over 30 years ago when I was here last with mum and dad. The girls got a little scared when we stopped at the Bates Motel and they simulated someone putting a fake body in a car and then walked towards us with a knife. After some explanation and time they forgot about it.

Hogwarts and Hogsmeade was the next stop with the first ride being Flight of the Hippogryff, it was so good the kids wanted to do it again. We had lunch at the Three Broomsticks and then saw a wand choosing the wizard at Olivanders wand shop. After collecting some supplies from Honeydukes sweet shop we headed out from Harry Potter to ride the Mummy rollercoaster and get wet on Jurassic Park. After some technical issues we got on the ride and yes got a bit wet. Lucky we had our Disneyland ponchos with us. After doing the Mummy rollercoaster again we headed back up the hill for The Simpsons, Kung Fu Panda and Minions. We got a few photos with some friends like Poppy from Trolls, Donkey from Shrek and Harry Potter stuff. With everything starting to pack up we got 2 more runs on the Flight of the Hippogryff rollercoaster before shopping and then leaving. In all a busy and great day with everyone leaving happy.

The ride back to Santa Monica was again interrupted by LA traffic congestion. I could not live with it everyday and I know why people try to live in an area that has the lifestyle they want. We dined at the Cheesecake Factory, who sell more than just cheesecakes. It was a great meal and the waiter was excellent, which he was rewarded for. Time to pack up as we checkout of LA tomorrow for the final leg in Honolulu. Will spend the morning hanging out in Santa Monica before the afternoon flight.