TRIP REPORT: Los Angeles and the Grand Canyon

This is the first post in a new series. Instead of simply posting one-off reviews of hotels, I will start featuring trips reports on UYT to chronicle my travels from beginning to end. This will also include the odd post about 'where to eat and drink' and 'what to do' in the places I visit. In this trip report, you'll read about my last trip of 2019/ my first trip of 2020. I went on a winter road trip from LA to the Grand Canyon.




I flew into LAX from Heathrow via Phoenix. The indirect routing kept the price down but earned me extra tier points in the BA Executive Club. Plus clearing US immigration at Phoenix was a breeze; I was through in minutes. Once in LA, I rented one of the quintessential American muscle cars. A Dodge Challenger. Absolutely brilliant.

Here's a quick write-up of some of our favourite low-cost places to eat and drink in LA.

In-N-Out Burger

Not everyone's a big fan, but I love burgers. In-N-Out is my favourite fast-food drive-thru burger joint. Still a family-owned business, the chain now operates restaurants in California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Texas and Oregon. There's one right by LAX, offering fantastic views of one of the runways. It's a must for plane spotters and aviation aficionados.

The double-double (cheeseburger) is the way to go. If you are super hungry, ask for a triple cheeseburger (featuring as the name suggests three succulent beef patties and three slices of cheese). It's on the 'secret menu'. Also, make sure you add on grilled onions and ask for your burger buns to be toasted.   


Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

For those with a sweet tooth, check out Krispy Kreme. I enjoyed a couple of doughnuts and a coffee after a shopping spree at The Outlets at Orange. Stop by for some serious discounts on high-end brands.


Coffee

You guessed it. I love coffee. And yes, there's nothing like sipping on an iced latte when driving on those endless highways. I tried two new brands this time. If you after fancy coffee creations, try Blue Bottle Coffee. I loved their store in Newport Beach, overlooking the marina, after a long walk on the beach.

If you are after a hipster coffee, check out Philz Coffee. Their Mint Mojito (iced coffee) is quite something.


OTHER POSTS IN THIS REPORT:

LA to the Grand Canyon: our route and a quick review of the Angel Lodge

Grand Canyon: what to do

Great value: Hampton Inn Kayenta













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