Los Angeles/USA

February 11, 2024 Los Angeles

This stop was probably more of a technical stop. Everyone had to report to American immigration authorities by 10 a.m. For many of my previous travel companions and new friends, the journey ended here and the farewell was partly very warm. In return, new passengers would come on board.

I got off the ship around 8 a.m. and got through passport control quicker than I ever had before in the US.

Then I stood outside by the buses for the excursions I had booked. The “Shopping Bus” would have taken me to Walmart and two other shopping centers for $35.00. No thanks, especially since I didn't need anything.

So I set out to explore the San Pedro district, where the port is located, on foot. I passed a battleship, the USS Iowa, which is now a museum. Open from 10 a.m. Saved.

I also wandered around the historic part of San Pedro. What I noticed: The people were very friendly, almost everyone greeted me, and the streets were sparkling clean. And no graffiti. I discovered funny posters and funny products.

I was back at the battleship at 10 a.m. and had to pay a cool $25.00 entrance fee. I was then allowed to go on the well-signposted and very interesting tour of the ship. Two hours in which I saw some things for the first time.

Afterwards I went to a small grocery store, bought a mango chili beer and some chips and then returned to the ship for lunch. Because of the new arrivals, there was a huge rush and it took almost half an hour to get to the on-board restaurant.

After eating, I reported to my emergency collection point as required and had thus completed the obligatory distress briefing. The presence at the meeting point was confirmed again by Whitney, the black singer with whom I had already had a very nice chat in Miami and promised her to attend at least one of her performances. She remembered me and had even noticed me in the audience. I wasn't surprised because after all, I always sit in the front row if possible.

Afterwards I did my underwear wash day. Pants and shirts always go to the laundry.

This time the dinner was themed “Greece”. However, the beef souvlaki was an imposition. Hard and chewy, inedible. This time I left some of my food, which is very rare.

I skipped the evening entertainment because the unfunny comedian from the day before was performing again.