LA, Hollywood & Universal studio's

The last leg on journey in the US was all the glitz and glam of LA. I think no where else in the world can you be greeted by capt jack Sparrow, A guy from the movie 300, a band member from Kiss & Shrek all within 20 metres on the street... and all asking for money.
A trip to LA is also not complete without paying $20US for a map of all the 'stars' homes from the homeless guys and visiting them all- (please note the sarcasm). Despite the cheese factor LA was really cool I enjoyed the sights and Nadia really enjoyed the shopping.

Above- the famous 'Hollywood' sign on the hill in the background. It is not that clear as there was still the odd bit of smoke lingering from the many fires that they have had in California.

Above- One of the many star's that lines Hollywood Blv, everyone from Jimi Hendrix to the Wiggles gets a star- I did not see too many Shortland street stars although Hone Ropata aka Temuera Morrison may have made it.

Above- Who would have thought that Arnie would not only 'come back', but come back as the Governor of California aka the 'Governator'.

Nadia graces the red carpet in front of Universal studios

Above- I try my best to look as touristy as possible in front of the entrance to Universal studios.

Above the Jurassic park ride was fun. We laughed at the Japanese tourists who put jackets on in the 36 degree heat for this ride.... they certainly had the last laugh....

Above- Waterworld was the most expensive movie ever made when it was released, The Waterworld display at Universal is very cool and probably as expensive.

Above- for all the Desperate Houswives fans here is what you have been waiting for, Wysteria lane (I think this is Susan's house- oh who am I kidding of course this is Susan's).

Unfortunately the very slow mechanical 'Jaws' has lost his scare factor over the years, but it is still a must see on the Studios behind the scenes tour

Santa Monica beach

Above- A scene straight out of Baywatch but David Hasselhoff (the hoff) is nowhere to be seen.

LA concluded our tour of the US. We left the sunshine of the States behind us and were welcomed back to London to the English cricket team losing, the All Blacks winning, the weather raining and the transport system running late... aaaaah home sweet home, order had been restored in the world.