It's time for a Road Trip in California, USA!
We are fans of Road Trips. Having explored Australia on cars, we decided to take an adventure 0n another continent.
USA was our destination for this holiday . We will be traveling between LA, Las Vegas and San Francisco on a road trip. It was an amazing experience. If you have about 2 to 3 weeks to spare, this will be the ultimate road trip for families choosing California as their holiday destination.
Ride along with us on this Las Vegas - Los Angeles - San Francisco road trip. The whole journey will take us a whopping 1000 miles or 1600 Km.
It's a long post ahead but we are sure that you would find nuggets of information useful to help you plan for a similar road trip.
Day 1
Arrival - Los Angeles International Airport
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PreTrip at Changi Airport - We are heading to US to see the real deal! |
We took a connecting flight from Singapore to LA ( through Tokyo) that lasted almost 20 hours with a stopover in Tokyo.
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Premium Economy |
Thankfully , we managed to snag a great deal from Singapore Airlines for Premium Economy and was comfortable during the flight.
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Flight from Singapore to LA - Total 19 hours 30 mins including a stop at Tokyo |
Arrival - Los Angeles International Airport |
Since this was a self drive holiday, we will be collecting our cars from Hertz. Compared to other destination, collecting a rental car in LAX would require you to take a bus to an offsite location. Hertz collection center was about 10 minutes drive from the airport with regular buses picking you up from the airport.
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Bus to Hertz Los Angeles |
We had pre-booked an SUV for the ride but there was no available SUV when we reach there. Instead, we were provided an MPV - Kia Carens for this trip. Since it was similar in size, we had no issue with it.
Tip : If you are booking from Hertz, do join their complimentary Hertz Gold Plus membership. Collecting a car under the membership would be much easier and hassle free from our experiences.
PS Book a SUV or MPV, you would need the space for luggage.
Do read our Driving tips in USA here.
Hotel : Country Inn and Suites by Radisson (Anaheim)
Travel : LAX to Country Inn and Suites - 35 miles 36 minutes
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Country Inn and Suites Anaheim |
The decision to stay a night in LA was wise. With different timezone, by the time we reach the hotel, we were already comatose due to jet lag. It does not help when we felt a little queasy during the flight itself.
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Jet Lag |
Tip : If you are travelling in a party of 4, do get rooms with Queen beds and NOT double beds. Double bed are similar to Super Single size and might be too much of a squeeze to share.
Book your Country Inn and Suites Anaheim Hotel here
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Disney theme Lobby |
Day 2
Highlights : Road Trip to Las Vegas, Peggy Sue's Diner, Eddie's World, Baker's Thermometer, Seven Magic Mountain, Las Vegas South Premium Outlet
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Morning Drive to Vegas |
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Source: Google Map |
Tip : It is best to have GPS Navigation unit if you are travelling out of town. Instead of renting one that can cost you MORE than the actual unit, buy a refurbished unit at half the cost.
No time to read, watch our video highlight of Las Vegas Road Trip here . Subscribe to our Youtube Channel for more!
Attraction : Peggy Sue's 50s Diner
Address: 35654 Yermo Rd, Yermo, CA 92398, USA
Travel : Anaheim to Peggy Sue's Diner - 118 miles, 1 hour 48 Mins
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Peggy Sue's 50s Diner |
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Welcome to Peggy Sue |
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Inside Peggy Sue's |
Stepped into the Diner and we felt we were transported to the Twilight Zone!
Everything looks so retro as if we had stepped into a movie set.
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Elvis |
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Breakfast |
Attraction : Eddie World
Address: 36017 Calico Rd, Yermo, CA 92398, USA
Travel : Peggy Sue's 50s Diner to Eddie World - 3.2 miles, 5 Mins
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Eddie World |
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Tip : Grab a couple of bottles of water. Most hotels do not provide bottled water or facilities to boil water. It will cost a few bucks just to get a small bottle of water in Vegas. Remember, we are in a desert, so water is necessary. Grab at least 1 gallon bottle per day . You would need it!
Attraction : World's Tallest Thermometer
Address: 72157 Baker Blvd, Baker , CA 92309 ,USA
Travel : Eddie World to Baker - 52.5 miles 46 mins
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World's Tallest Thermometer - Baker |
The next pit stop was the world's largest thermometer. Why do we make this stop?
Well, why not as it is on the way to Vegas. It was also a good stop to stretch the legs.
Attraction : Seven Magic Mountains
Address : Off S Las Vegas Blvd at Terrible's Hotel & Casino exit
Travel : Baker to Seven Magic Mountains - 67.3 miles 1 hour
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Seven Magic Mountain |
No matter, it was good enough for us to stop and be in awe for a bit.
Tip : Play The Doors Break on Through when driving to the Seven Mountains. The Experience will be surreal.
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So high |
Address : 7400 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89123 m, USA
Travel : Seven Magic Mountain to LVS Premium Outlet - 17 miles 20 mins
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Las Vegas South Premium Outlets |
Given that we left early, we had avoided the Thanksgiving traffic.By the time we reached Vegas, we still had time before check in. Since time was on our side, we made a stop at South Las Vegas Premium Outlet. Our hotel , Luxor Hotel & Casino was a mere 10 minutes drive away,
Tip : If you are heading to US, Premium outlets are a must stop. The value for money items are the branded goods from Coach, Polo, Tommy Hilfilger, Michael Kors and more. The savings can be as much as up to 80% off Singapore price. Prepare an extra empty luggage or two.
Hotel : Luxor Hotel & Casino
Address : 3900 S LAs Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119 , USA
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Luxor |
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Checking in |
Book your Luxor Hotel & Casino here
Need More Hotel Options in Vegas?
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Booking.com
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Luxor Room |
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Excalibur Fun Dungeon - Spot the Youtubers |
Day 3
Highlights - Twilight Zone Mini Golf, Circus Circus Midway Games, Las Vegas North Premium Outlet
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Paris @ Vegas |
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Johnny Rockets |
We headed to one of the Food courts at Bally's Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. The food court was quite typical of food courts in Las Vegas. There was usually a mix of eateries serving burgers, pizza, Chinese food and the occasional Fried Chicken. Depending on the location, you can find Johnny Rockets, Panda Express, KFC or Popeye's in the food court. Food courts do not serve the best food but they do their job. At less than US $10 for most meals, it is much more affordable that restaurants that charge about the US $80 for a family of four.
Tip: Tipping is not necessary for food court compared to restaurants where tipping is expected ( Usually 15-20% of the bill)
Attraction : Twilight Zone Mini Golf
Address : 3645 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109 , USA
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Twilight Zone Mini Golf |
The main reason why we are at Bally's was to have a go at the Twilight Zone Mini Golf. Mini golf was a fun way to spend time as a family. Playing it at the Twilight Zone brought us to another whole new dimension.
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Twilight Zone Mini Golf 2 |
Attraction : Circus Circus Midway Games
Address : 2880 Las Vegas Blvd S, Circus Circus Las Vegas, NV 89109 , USA
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Circus Circus Midway Games |
After the game of golf, our next destination was Circus Circus Midway Games. After watching countless youtube videos on carnival games , this destination was a must do for us. If you are travelling with kids, be sure to bring them there.
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Winner Winner Chicken Dinner |
Attraction : Las Vegas North Premium Outlet
Address : 875 S Grand Central Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89106 , USA
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Las Vegas North Premium Outlet Mall |
Tip: Check the website for extra coupons and savings. Some coupons are only available online.
Day 4
Highlights - Grand Canyon Day Trip
Today, we left the car behind and decided to take a day tour to the Grand Canyon. Theoretically, you can make a day trip there on your own. However, with a total of 10 hours drive too and fro, it would be physically demanding for us to do a self drive. You could consider spending an additional night at Grand Canyon if you want to make the trip on your own.
We decided to opt for a tour instead. The tour we had is a private chartered and cost slightly more expensive than the usual package. If cost is a concern, consider booking a tour from Klook. With the money saved, you could even upgrade to a helicopter tour.
Book Klook Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Day Tour from Las Vegas here
Attraction : Las Vegas Sign
Address : 5200 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV89119 , USA
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Las Vegas Sign |
The tour started early at 7 am. Our first stop was a photo op at the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign. It was a short stop but good enough to take photos to prove we are in Vegas.
Attraction: Hoover Dam
Address: Nevada 89005, USA
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Hoover Dam |
Attraction: Historic Route 66
Address: Seligman, Arizona 86337, USA
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Historic Route 66 |
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Cars |
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Route 66 |
There was a cool shop there that had everything Route 66 related merchandise.
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The King |
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Take a ride |
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Back to the past |
Attraction: Grand Canyon South Rim
Address: Rim Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023 ,USA
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Look out - Bright Angel Point |
Another alternative to the South Rim would be the Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend located at Grand Canyon East, It is a highly Instagram-able place, but due to the terrains and hikes needed to reach there, it is not the ideal destination for kids.
Book here for Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Day Tour from Las Vegas
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Bright Angel Lodge - Spot the Lookout studio |
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Bright Angel Point |
The fact that most official pictures on the Grand Canyon come from the South Rim is a testimonial to its significance.
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Postcard |
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Spot the deer |
Our tour included additional stops at Duck on the Rock and other locations.
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Duck on a Rock |
The best part of the tour was a secret location. We cannot tell you where it is but the view was spectacular!
Book here for Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Day Tour from Las Vegas
Click here for full Grand Canyon options including South Rim tours, West Rim tours, Helicopter tours
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Las Vegas strip |
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M & M World |
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M & M Chocolate |
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Take your pick |
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Hershey Chocolate Liberty |
You can purchase the world's largest Hershey's bar there. We were forbidden from doing as Dad felt it was too much of a sugar rush for us.
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World Largest Hershey's bar |
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S'mores |
Las Vegas looked alive at night with their bright neon lights. A walk in the evening is recommended to soak in the atmosphere.
Tip: At certain parts, it may get rowdy. For safety, walk only on the main strip where lights are bright and there are plenty of people around.
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Viva Las Vegas |
Day 5
Highlights - Explore Vegas, Cirque Du Soleil
Attraction: Circus Circus Midway Games
Address: 2880 Las Vegas Blvd S, Circus Circus Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
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Life's a circus |
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Free Circus Act |
Attraction: Mystere
Address: Treasure Island. 3300 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
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Mystere |
Thereafter we caught the original Cirque Du Soleil show Mystere at Treasure Island. This was our first Cirque Du Soleil show and it did not disappoint
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Mystere |
Tip: We were able to get a great deal from Klook compared to the official site. Kids tickets were only available from Klook we do not have to pay any extra admin fee compared to the official website. ( Savings of about 30%)
Get your discounted Mystere Tickets from Klook here
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Mystere |
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Fashion Mall |
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Day 6
Highlights Road Trip - Drive to Anaheim
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Ride to LA |
Tip: Check the calendar before planning for a trip to avoid traffic. Avoid Holiday Season if possible.
No time to read, check out the video version
Hotel: Residence Inn Anaheim
Travel: Las Vegas to Residence Inn Convention Center hours 259 miles . 4 hours
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Residence Inn Anaheim |
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Big Size rooms at Residence Inn Convention center |
Book Residence Inn Convention Center here
Need more hotel options in Disneyland, Anaheim?
Click on the map to see more
Booking.com
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Cheesecake Factory |
Tip: Choose a hotel within 1 block away from Disneyland, so you do not need to drive and park at Disney.
Day 7
Highlights: Disneyland
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Which way to Disney? |
Address: 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA 92802, USA
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Goofing with Goofy |
For this leg of our LA stays, the reason why we stayed at Anaheim was pretty obvious... Disneyland Park. In fact, it was both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure that influenced our decision. Having been to Disneyland in Tokyo and Hong Kong, we were excited at the chance to visit the original Disneyland.
Tip: If you are heading to Disneyland, be there early. The queue for the security would be longer than the queue for getting in.
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Sleeping Beauty Castle |
With a 2 Day ' 1 Park per Day ' ticket from Klook, we managed to save about 15% from getting it individually. The prices were also cheaper compared to the official rate from Disney. The multi-park admission is also a better option as it is the same price regardless if it was regular or peak season.
Getting in was a breeze as we simply show the printed tickets at the gate to change for official tickets.
Get your discounted Disneyland Mulit Park admission here
Get your discounted Disneyland Ticket here ( 10% discount)
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Mattherhorn Bobsled |
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Mickey |
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Walt Disney |
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Fireworks |
Tip: Stand on the right side facing the castle. The fireworks would be block from the left due to trees.
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Downtown Disney |
Tip: Disney opens till VERY late on certain days, sometimes even 12pm. Check the Disney website for updates.
Get your discounted Disneyland Multi Park admission here
Get your discounted Disneyland Ticket here
Day 8
Highlights Captain Dave Dolphin and Whale Watch Safari
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Captain Dave |
Address: 24440 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629, USA
Travel: Country Inn to Dana Point 35 miles. 36 minutes
Rather than going to theme parks on consecutive days, we decided to take a break at head to the seas.
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What will we see today? |
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Whale Watch Family |
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Jump |
It was an easy 35 minutes drive from our hotel. Within minutes from our departure from the docks, we were able to catch glimpse of dolphins out it the sea. They immediately swam up to us and alongside the boat. Super cool.
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School of Dolphins |
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Sei Whale |
Whales are not easily spotted during December as it was not the migrating season. We were lucky enough to spot a lone Sei Whale. Sea lions also greeted us on the way back.
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Sea Lions |
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Sunset at Dana Point |
Day 9
Disney California Adventure
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Disney Pier |
Address: 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA 92802, USA
It's back to the theme park. This time we will visit Disney California Adventure. We were pretty unsure what to expect as we had not read much about the place. Armed with our prepaid tickets from Klook, we are about to find out!
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Holiday mood |
Disney California Adventure is very much different from Disneyland. Disneyland is well known for child-friendly rides and shows. Disney California Adventure is leaning more towards rides for older kids.
*Bookmark our website, we will be bringing you a comparison in our future post.
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Let's Swing! |
Tip: Get a fast pass to a popular ride the FIRST thing you head to the park!
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Frozen |
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Performance |
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Carnival Games |
We stayed there till dark. Disney Adventure Park close much earlier than Disneyland. There are so much to do there that we think a one day pass was not enough!
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Disney Pier @ night |
Get your discounted Disney California Adventure Park Tickets here
Day 10
Highlights: Hollywood Hills, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Grauman's Chinese Theatre, Dave and Buster, Universal Citywalk
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Spot the Hollywood sign |
Address: Lake Hollywood Park 3160 Canyon Lake Dr
Travel: Anaheim to Hollywood Hills 37 miles, 1 hour
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Hollywood |
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Lake Hollywood Park |
Attraction: Hollywood Walk of Fame
Address: N Highland Ave & Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028
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Grauman's Chinese Theatre |
Tip: Park your car at Hollywood & Highlands. You can validate your tickets if you purchase an item from a shop for a lower parking fee.
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Found: Harry Potter |
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Hollywood |
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Dave and Buster |
Given we had time to kill before checking in, we decided to head in for a quick game or two. In the end , we walked out with a good haul after spending $20 there.
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Win @ Dave and Buster |
Not everything was fine and dandy. When in Hollywood, we were almost hustled by a guy trying to give his own 'free' CD to the kids. After signing on it, he demanded a tip of US $20 for it. Spotting a hustle , we quickly walk away. Thankfully, there were some security there and the man left us alone thereafter.
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Hustle |
Tip: When travelling with kids, do stay on the safe side and not be enticed by unsolicited offers.
Hotel: Sheraton Universal Hollywood
Address: 333 Universal Hollywood Dr, Universal City, CA 91608, USA
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Sheraton Universal Hollywood |
Book your stay at Sheraton Universal Hollywood here
Need more hotels choice in Hollywood?
Click on the map to see more
Booking.com
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Universal Citywalk |
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Seeing Double |
Tip: Food is expensive in the USA, remember to budget more for it especially when you are in tourist areas.
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Johnny Rockets |
Mind Boggling.... If there is one thing that is 'cheap' in the States, it will be clothing from popular brands originated from US.
Tip: For more mileage on your shopping, time your holidays to coincide with Black Friday Week. Sales are ongoing for the WHOLE week instead of just Black Friday
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Shop at A & F |
Day 11
Highlights : Universal Studios
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Universal Studios |
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, USA
Our last theme stop for the trip would be at Universal Studios Hollywood. After having an incredible time at Universal Studios Osaka, our hopes were high on this theme park. Our tickets were pre-booked from Klook and entrance was hassle-free as usual. As per our experiences from Klook, the Universal Studios Tickets are usually cheaper than the official site.
Get your discounted Universal Studios Hollywood tickets from Klook here
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Hogwarts Express |
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The Wizardry World of Harry Potter Universal Hollywood |
Depending on when you are heading there, the Express Pass might be necessary for certain dates. You can check the crowd calendar here. If it shows that 'It is packed' or 'Forget about it', we think it would make more sense to get the Express Pass.
Get your Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass here
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Hollywood Studio Tour |
The main highlight of Universal Studios Hollywood is not the rides but the Studio Tour. It was am excellent tour featuring a tour around the studios, special effects location and 2 incredible virtual reality screening of King Kong and Fast and Furious. One of the more dramatic props is a real aircraft that is still burning build specially for a scene in War of the Worlds!
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Studio Tour: Plane Wreck |
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Krustyland |
It was the carnival games that got us excited. We even won some games here
Tip: Games cost $5 a pop. However, if you double that, they would usually give you more chance to win. Instead of playing every game, focus on the ones that you use skills instead of luck.
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Carnival Win |
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Big Donut |
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Hogwarts Castle |
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Universal Globe |
As the night was still young, we head to the nearby Universal CityWalk for dinner and more shopping.
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Universal CityWalk |
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IT's Sugar |
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Voodoo Donuts |
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Sugar overload |
Universal CityWalk was a fun place to visit. There were plenty of food options such as Tony Romas, Bubble Gump Shrimp Company, Johnny Rockets and Hard Rock Cafe. It was also relatively safer to spend the night with kids compared to the nearby Hollywood. Even Santa was having a great time there.
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Dancing Santa |
Book your stay at Sheraton Universal Hotel here
Book your stay at Hilton Universal Hotel here
Day 12
Highlights: Road Trip to San Francisco
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Only 238 miles to go! |
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Source : Google Map |
This was probably the longest drive we have taken for a road trip. To put it in context, Singapore is only 50 miles from East to West. A drive from LA to San Francisco would be the equivalent of driving end to end in Singapore for close to 8 times!
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The Fog |
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Aircraft Tyres? |
Attraction: Harris Ranch
Address: 24505 W Dorris Ave, Coalinga, CA 93210, USA
Travel: Shearton Universal to Harris Ranch - 189 miles. 2 Hours 45 mins
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Harris Ranch |
Attraction: San Francisco Factory Outlet
Address: 2774, Livermore Outlets Dr, Livermore, CA 94551, USA
Travel: Harris Ranch to San Francisco Factory Outlet. 146 miles 2 hr
To break the monotony of the drive, we made a stop at San Francisco Factory Outlet. This outlet has most of the brands in Las Vegas outlets and malls. It probably would be the mecca for shoppers looking for a good deal.
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Source: Google Map |
On the last leg to San Francisco via the i-80, there was a toll of USD 5 per vehicle to cross the bridge into San Francisco. We had not read about it online, so do prepare spare change for this. The end of the drive to San Francisco was beautiful as we cross a tunnel and emerged on the other side on a bridge towards the city.
Hotel: Pier 2620
Address: 2620 Jones St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
Travel: San Francisco Premier outlet to Pier 2620 - 40 miles, 1 hour
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Pier 2620 |
Book your stay at Pier 2620 here
Need more hotel options in San Francisco?
Click on the map to see more
Booking.com
Day 13
Highlights: Krispy Kreme, Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, Exploratorium, Aquarium by the Bay, USS Pampanito, Ripley's Believe it or Not
We had to say goodbye to our trusty ride today. Parking in San Francisco can cost a bomb. Overnight parking in our hotel was at US 50 ++ . Add parking charges in other location for sightseeing, the expenses for parking itself will be shocking.
Tip: As we arrived during weekends, the Hertz outlet was close by the time we arrived. We made the mistake of parking at the hotel instead of the car park at Anchorage Square. We ended up paying overnight parking for that. If you are in a similar situation, park at Anchorage Square ( it has other car rentals there too) instead of the hotel to save parking charges.
Want a video friendly version of San Francisco holidays?
Check out our video here. Subscribe to our Youtube Channel for more!
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The Crepe Cafe |
Without a car, we used our other 'Kar' ( Hokkien slang for leg power) to get around town. Thankfully, Pier 2620 was in a great location in Fisherman's Wharf. Most of the attractions we visited in the vicinity take less than 15 mins to get to on foot. Our first stop was The Crepe Cafe at Anchorage Square for crepes and Clam Chowder.
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Clam Chowder |
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Boudin Bakery |
Attraction : Krispy Kreme
Address : 353 Jerfferson St, San Franciso, CA 94133 , USA
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Krispy Kreme |
We were still feeling hungry so we made a stop at US largest Krispy Kreme Stores.
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Lots of doughnuts to choose |
Tip: Get 3,6 or 12 doughnuts at a go. The doughnuts will be price cheaper with this combination,
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Not included in the menu |
Address: 145 Jefferson St #600, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
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Madame Tussad's Wax Museum |
Get the Go - San Francisco card here
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Cable Car |
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Hippies |
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Arrested for being Wacky |
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Big Bus Tour |
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Pier 1 |
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Homeless in San Francisco |
Attraction: Exploratorium (Go San Francisco Card)
Address: Pier 15, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111, USA
Travel: Big Bus Hop On Hop Off Stop 5
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Exploratorium |
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Lots of Gadgets |
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Bluehead |
Get Discounted Exploratorium admission tickets here
Get the Go - San Francisco card here
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Interior |
Attraction: Aquarium of the Bay (Go San Francisco Card)
Address: Pier 39, The Embarcadero & Beach St, San Fransico, CA 94133, United States
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Aquarium of the Bay |
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Jellyfish |
Get the Go - San Francisco card here
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Fish Tunnel |
Address: The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
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Pier 39 |
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Pier 39 Carousel |
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Pier 39 Sea Lions |
Address: 45 Sausalito - San Francisco Pier 41, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
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USS Pampanito |
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Submariners |
Get the Go - San Francisco card here
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Gunner |
Address: Pier 45, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
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Musee Mecanique Fisherman's Wharf |
Next to the USS Pampinto was the Musse Mecanique. If you are a fan of the arcade, you have to visit this old-style arcade with plenty of 20th century penny arcade games.
Attraction: Ripley's Believe it or Not ( Go San Francisco Card)
Address: 175, Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
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Ripley's believe it or not |
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Add caption |
Get the Go - San Francisco card here
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Mcdonalds |
Tip: Drinks are refillable in McDonald's and some restaurants. Great way to refill fluid for the day
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Krispy Kreme |
We did picked up a dozen donuts from Krispy Kreme for Supper and breakfast for the next day.
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Donuts anyone? |
Day 14
Highlights: Hop on Hop-Off Tour, California Science Academy, Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown
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Hop on Hop Off San Francisco |
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Transamerica Pyramid |
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Union Square |
Taking a Hop on Hop off bus is a great option to explore the city. There were no worries about parking and the high fees to park. Furthermore, San Francisco is well known for car robberies, so taking a bus takes that worry off. The bus routes itself was interesting, taking you to popular tourist sites such as Union Square and even to the underbelly of the city such as the Tenderloin. On your own, you probably would not even venture to these dark parts of the cities where countless homeless roam the street. On the bus, it was pretty safe as you see the different extremes of what San Francisco has to offer.
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Tenderloin |
Get the Go - San Francisco card here
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San Francisco City Hall |
Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA - Stop 11 Big Bus Golden Gate Park
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California Academy of Science |
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Albino Crocodile |
We spotted our first rare albino Crocodile there.
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An Aquarium or a forest? |
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Big Bus Hop On Hop Off |
Attraction: Golden Gate Bridge
Address: North Vista Point - Big Bus Stop 12 North Vista Point/Golden Gate Bridge
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Golden Gate Park |
Tip: If you want to feel the wind in your hair, sit on the top deck. Do warn that it could get pretty chilly during winter!
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Golden Gate |
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Take a closer look |
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Palace of Fine Arts |
Address: Chinatown San Francisco - Big Bus Stop 17 Chinatown Gate
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Chinatown |
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Enjoying Chow |
Attraction: Pier 39
Address: The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA - Big Bus Stop 20
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Giant Claw Game |
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Players Arcade |
We had a go at the Giant Claw Machine and the Players arcade and walked away with wades of cash... replica $100 bills to be exact.
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Big win! |
There are several ways to hop onto the Big Bus Tour. Here are some options.
Big Bus Tour only
Go - San Francisco card
Alcatraz Island & Hop on Hop-Off Bus Tour Combo
Day 15
Highlights: Alcatraz
Address : Pier 33 Alcartaz Landing
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Alcartaz |
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Latest inmates |
Book Alcatraz Island & Hop on Hop-Off Bus Tour Combo
Book Alcatraz Island & City Tour Combo
Book Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods & Sausalito Day Tour Combo
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Indians Welcome |
It was a lighthouse, a military garrison, a military prison, a federal prison and was even occupied by Native Americans during its history. It had been designated as a National Histroic Landmark in 1986 and is now a major tourist magnet in San Francisco.
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Solitary |
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Cellphone Audio Tour |
It was also well known that there are no known survivals that had escaped from Alcatraz. Hollywood had also taken notice with shows such as The Rock and Escape from Alcatraz dedicated to this Rock.
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Alcartaz notorious inmates |
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Warning |
There are more to explore in Alcatraz than the prison itself. Head outdoors and discover a whole new side of Alcatraz where prison guards once stayed with their spouse and kids. Some other parts of Alcatraz are open to the public on selective days and time.
Tip: Get the early tour to avoid large crowds on your visit to Alcatraz
For Alcatraz tickets, you can get them here
Book Alcatraz Island & City Tour Combo
Book Alcartaz Island, Muir Woods & Sausalito Day Tour Combo
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Klook Travel Wifi |
We had fun exploring and double-checking the facts of the audio tour with searches on the Internet. Thanks to Klook Pocket Wifi, the connection was a breeze. In fact, this nifty gadget served us well throughout our trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas to San Francisco. Highly recommended for its reliability. It was also cheaper than its competitors, making it value for money.
Get your US Pocket Wifi from Klook here
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Safeway |
In addition, we found the only Chinese food option (Asian Chinese Food) in Northpoint Center, Our only regret was that we had not discovered this place much earlier.
Tip: If you are in Fisherman's Wharf, head to Safeway to top up water and snacks. Most hotels do not provide bottles of water for consumption.
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Fisherman at Night |
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ihop |
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Steak |
Day 16
Highlights: Lombart Street, In N Out Burger, Cable Car Turnaround at Powell Street / Market Street
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Spot Alcatraz |
Attraction : Lombard Street
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Lombard Street |
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Down the winding road |
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Lombard Street |
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Fisherman's Wharf |
Throughout the trip, Dad wanted to try the famous California In-N-Out burger.
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In -N- Out |
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Delicious Burgers from In-N-out |
Attraction : Fisherman's Wharf Powell Street / Market Street Cable Car Turnaround.
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Fisherman's Wharf cable car |
After a hearty meal, we head off the Fisherman's Wharf Powell Street / Market Street Cable Car Turnaround.We were lucky enough to catch a cable car making a turnaround. The turnaround was done manually by hands rather than electronically.
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Cable Car |
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Ride to the top |
It was time to say Goodbye to San Francisco and Fisherman's Wharf
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Goodbye Fisherman's Wharf |
Tip : If you want a safe ride, ask the hotel concierge to arrange for you one. Chances are the drivers recommended are repeated drivers working with the hotel. They would be more reliable than Uber.
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Time to go home |
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Nonstop flight to Singapore |
If you are heading to LA-Las Vegas - San Francisco and found this review useful. Do support us by clicking on the links to purchase the activities you need. It will not cost you a penny more, but it would help us to keep the lights on.
Enjoy your trip in USA!
Drop us an email here if you would like us to plan your holidays. For a small fee, we will be able to customised an itinerary according to your requirements.
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Book here for Grand Canyon South Rim Bus Day Tour from Las Vegas
Get your discounted Mystere Tickets from Klook here
Los Angelas
Disneyland
Get your discounted Disneyland Multi Park admission here
Get your discounted Disneyland Tickets here
Disney Adventure Park
Get your discounted Disneyland Multi Park admission here
Get your discounted Disney California Adventure Park Tickets here
Universal Studios Hollywood
Get your discounted Universal Studios Hollywood tickets from Klook here
Get your Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass here
San Francisco Go Card
Get the Go - San Francisco card here
Alcatraz Tour
Book Alcatraz Island & Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour Combo
Book Alcatraz Island & City Tour Combo
Book Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods & Sausalito Day Tour Combo
Big Bus Tour
Book Big Bus Tour here
US Pocket Wifi
Get your US Pocket Wifi from Klook here
Hotels featured in this itinerary
Los Angeles
Country Inn and Suites Anaheim
Residence Inn Convention Center by Marriott
Sheraton Universal Hollywood
Las Vegas
Luxor Resort & Casino
San Francisco
Pier 2620
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Disclosure
The post contains affiliated links. If you made a purchase through the links, you won't pay a penny more, but we will get a small commission, which helps keep the lights on. Do support us if you like this review. This review was done on our own expenses with the following exception - Themeparks sponsorship and Wifi provided by Klook.
Hi. May I know how much was your total expenses excluding the air tickets?
ReplyDeleteHi Cecilia. It was about SGD 16K including airfares, accommodation, food, transport and attractions. It was quite a bit, but worth it for a trip that lasted almost 3 weeks ( including travel time)
DeleteThanks for this blog. Super detailed for references. Thnaks!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome. Hope it helps in planning your trip if you are heading there ;)
DeleteHi! what a nice blog! planning to visit Las Vegas, LA and San Diego around the first 2 weeks of Dec 2019 with wife and 12 year old child. How was the weather and driving conditions ? any icy roads or lots of rain particularly around Las Vegas? does the sun set early probably around 5pm? Thanks !
ReplyDeleteThe Sun sets early in Dec ( about 5-6pm) , so take note of that while driving. California is the sunshine state in US. Even during winter, it does not get too cold ( about 10 -15 degree during the day) . No show when we are there. Driving condition is good, but plan your timing to drive only during daytime as there are parts of the roads without lights. Watch the speed too. The Speed at 65 miles per hour may sound slow but it is rather fast especially on the highway. Check out our driving tips in USA here https://www.thewackyduo.com/2019/01/16-tips-for-driving-in-usa-california.html
DeleteMay I know which company did you go with for the day trip to Grand Canyon departing from Las Vegas? How was it?
DeleteThank you
Hi Dan, we took the GC Tour https://gc.tours/grand-canyon-west-rim-express-tour#grand-canyon-west-rim-express-tour-details . A cheaper alternative would be from Klook https://www.klook.com/en-SG/activity/8355-grand-canyon-south-rim-tour-las-vegas/?krt=s21&krid=adff2566-b316-4ddc-6491-1a8dc5d5929a
DeleteHi, Can I know roughly what's the cab fare from SF to airport and the $16k total expenses is for your family of 4? Thankyouu!
ReplyDeleteHi Vivan. Cab fare was about US60 if I can recall. The 16K is inclusive of everything (airfares, lodging, food, transport, entertainment, shopping) for 4. You probably could budget lower if you are not into shopping .
DeleteIf you exclude airfare and shopping. It's about SG 10K for hotel, car , food and entertainment
DeleteHi, i will be going to Grand Canyon south rim from Las Vegas in the first half of December this year for a day trip. Seems that your family was there around the same time. May I know how was the weather in Grand canyon during your trip? Thanks
ReplyDeleteHi there, the weather was cool. Bring a light jacket or sweater. Enjoy the trip!
DeleteHi, how's the parking in Las Vegas? Are they expensive?
ReplyDeleteParking could be found around the hotels or at the outlet malls. Reasonable price compared to SF. Overnight at about $18 for the one at Luxor. Best to choose a hotel that has a carpark for convenience.
Delete