JFK to LAX DON'TS!!

1. Don't fly VIRGIN AMERICA

• We usually fly JetBlue to Long Beach airport because Rich's family live in North OC... but because this trip was so short, and Virgin America had the best departure and arrival times, we chose to fly VA. That was a mistake!! During the taxi for departure, an oxygen mask had deployed and the airplane had to make its way back to the departure gate so maintenance can come on and fix it. The staff on the airplane (to LA and back) were SO RUDE and NOT CHILD friendly. Did not smile and even gave a little attitude! They didn't even help with carry-ons! The audiovisual system was awful- even after paying for movies or tshows, the audio was spotty and skipped every few minutes.

2. Don't rent a car from THRIFTY

• We waited ~ 10 min for the Thrifty shuttle bus to pick up from LAX to get to the car rental depot. During that time, we saw approx 5 Enterprise buses, 4 Hertz buses, 3 Budget buses, 2 nationals....

3. Avoid LAX if you can!

• Airport is undergoing major renovations right now. Currently, there are NO resturants by the gate/waiting area in Termial 3. There is a Starbucks, Burger king, PEETS coffee and Blue window (premade sandwiches/wraps... NOT good). We wanted to sit and have a drink, but the sitting area by Angel city brewery was so small it couldnt fit a double stroller, and we were not allowed to take beverages past that area :(
• We usually fly in and out of Long Beach airport, which has recently undergone recnovations (and is finished!). Lots of resturants and bars to enjoy while you wait to board your flight!!
• Having to take a shuttle from the rental car site to the airport is a PAIN! At Long Beach airport, you can WALK to the rental car site from the airport. A HUGE BONUS!!!!

 

With this being said, next time we fly to LA, it will be through Long Beach Airport.