Universal Studios Hollywood

Up at a reasonable time as we had a bus to catch to Universal Studios. Hef (Wayne) took his 3 hot girls out and Si and Craig stayed behind for a chill out day in Santa Monica.

We started off our day with a Studio Tour. It toured the world-famous backlot and we learnt secrets about Hollywood moviemaking. One of the highlights for me was the largest 3D experience on King Kong 360 3D which was created by Peter Jackson.

Other highlights included cruising down Wisteria Lane, Jaws, War of the Worlds to name a few. Great way to start the day off with lots of special effects.

After that we hit the rides almost running. We were offered a front of line fast pass for a additional $49.00 but decided against it. Thankfully we didn't purchase this as it was a great day to go with minimal wait times anyway! Gotta love going to theme parks during the week (it's Monday today).

Another fun ride was Jurassic Park where the 4 of us got extremely wet. Talk about fun.

Caught the Blues Brothers musical which was o for oarsome. You know I love my music and dancing but I didn't expect to be taken up on stage by Jake to shake my tail feather. I did enjoy it though!

Kathryn and Jo once again surprised themselves and Wayne and I by doing every ride/experience in the park. I can see that the roller coaster on top of Stratosphere will be next for both of them! Wayne looked like he could step onto the set of Terminator when he straddled the motor bike.

Finished the day off with Shrek 4D which was a great end. You initially think how am I gong to spend 8 hours or so at a theme park but in reality you could spend much more. Especially when we found the streets of shops outside the park!

Bus back to Santa Monica and met up with Si and Craig to hear about their day. They had a great one also chilling at the beach, swimming, reading and biking again down to Venice Beach for lunch. Si's looking a bright shade of pink currently, perhaps a little too much sun!

Found an Italian restaurant to have dinner at. Bucas - delicious. They are a chain and Si and I went to one in Rapid City. It was great to go with a group as they serve "like Mumma serves" and it's all about sharing from large bowls. 6 very contented people who even managed delicious profiteroles for desert rolled back to the motel. Delizioso.

Packing to be done as we hit the road tomorrow for hotel number 39 and the last one of our American Adventure. Bring it on!