10 Reasons Why We Like The USA

1.     That despite the general chaos of the USA immigration and security system that we still met some people who made the process bearable! 

·      The security guard who gave us an informative chat about coolade, grapeade and the difference between Powerade and Gatorade,

·      The very serious immigration officer who cracked a the hugest smile when we lifted Leah higher than the counter so he could check her passport photo, 

·      The security lady who informed me with a smile that the huge security risk resulting in my bag being thoroughly re-searched was those highly dangerous baby wipes!

2.     Travelling with a family has its benefits – we got jumped to the front of long queues, boarded first – I know this happens in other places but they actually sought us out so we could do this!

3.     Cheap everything (except New York accommodation).

4.     Being called “ma’am” feels so polite and respectful! (but only when said in an American accent).

5.     The Straten Island Ferry – the most awesome public transport/ tourist transport I have ever seen.  Hundreds of people are herded like sheep onto the ferry at one end, and vice versa at the other end. But there’s no fuss, crowding or jostling to get on, plenty of room for all and it‘s free! And as a bonus we got to sail by The Statue of Liberty (twice). The kids wanted to go again!

6.     The Jersey Turnpike – okay we didn’t necessarily like this but 16+ lanes of motorway is pretty impressive to see!

7.     Jersey Shore (the real thing not the TV programme) – miles of gorgeous beach with a boardwalk and arcade that runs all the way along the beach front, including rooftop golf, funfairs and a ski-lift type contraption that allows you to view the glory that is the shore from above! This is still being restored after Hurricane Sandy and looks like post earthquake Christchurch in parts L.

8.     New Jersey pizza – about 3 feet in diameter – need I say more?

9.     Funnel cake – made by pouring donut mix from a funnel into a deep-fryer and covering the cooked ‘donut’ with the topping of your choice (icing sugar for us) – yes I know it’s another food one but I am a de Lima!

1.    The McCue family – the loudest, craziest, warmest family who made us feel right at home.