Family Adventure: From Newark Airport to California

Join us on a memorable family journey as we travel from Newark, NJ to California! This blog captures our experiences at the airport, on United Airlines, and exploring the vibrant attractions of California, including dining at Vox Kitchen and visiting Disney Downtown.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• At the airport
• Going on United
• Landed in Cali
• Looking for Our Car
• Going to Eat at Vox Kitchen
• Going Get Coffee
• Checking in at the Viv Hotel
• Checking Disney Downtown
• Checking Out Our Room
• FAQ

Introduction

Welcome to our exciting journey from Newark to California! In this section, we'll share our experiences at the airport and what you can expect during the travel process.

Getting Ready for the Trip

As we prepared for our flight, we faced some delays at the airport due to various incidents. However, our check-in process with United Airlines was smooth and efficient. We were relieved to find that our flight was not significantly impacted.

Exploring the Airport

Newark Airport has undergone some renovations, making it a beautiful place to start our adventure. The terminal features numerous shops and eateries, providing a pleasant atmosphere for travelers.

At the airport

Once we arrived at Newark, it was time to grab some breakfast before heading to our gate. The airport was bustling with activity, but we managed to find a good spot to order food.

Breakfast and Shopping

We ordered sandwiches and drinks for the kids, ensuring they would have enough energy for the journey ahead. However, we had to wait a bit longer than expected, which made us rush to the gate afterward.

As we made our way through the terminal, we noticed that United Airlines was operating smoothly compared to other airlines facing delays. The atmosphere in the terminal was lively and well-organized, making our travel experience enjoyable.

Going on United

Flying with United Airlines was a breeze! We opted for Economy Plus, which provided extra legroom and comfort, making our journey with kids much easier.

The Economy Plus seats were roomy, allowing us to settle in without feeling cramped. The entertainment system was impressive, with a large screen that kept the kids entertained throughout the flight.

We took advantage of a special offer that allowed us to upgrade without breaking the bank. This was a great way to save money while ensuring a comfortable experience for our family.

Landed in Cali

After a smooth flight, we finally touched down in California! The excitement was palpable as we arrived at John Wayne Airport, ready for our adventures.

The airport was welcoming, though we did have a small incident on the plane. An unfortunate spill of hot water caused a bit of a scare, but thankfully, everyone was okay.

Once we collected our luggage, it was time to find our rental car. We had chosen a spacious Mercedes, perfect for our family outings. We couldn't wait to explore all that California has to offer!

Looking for Our Car

After landing in California, the first task was to find our rental car. The excitement of being in a new place mixed with the challenge of locating our vehicle made for an adventurous start.

The atmosphere in California was refreshing and pleasant. As we stepped outside, we were greeted by the mild weather, a perfect contrast to the hustle of the airport.

Spotting the Right Vehicle

After a brief search, we finally found our car—a sleek 2024 Mercedes GLS. It was exciting to see it waiting for us, ready for our family adventures.

• Model: Mercedes GLS 2024
• Color: White
• Seating: Spacious with Captain chairs

Once inside, we explored the features of the car. The spacious interior was impressive, but we noticed the media screen was smaller than expected for a vehicle of its size.

Despite this minor detail, the comfort and style of the Mercedes GLS made it a great choice for our trip.

Going to Eat at Vox Kitchen

After settling into our car, our next stop was lunch at Vox Kitchen. Known for its delicious offerings, we were eager to try a variety of dishes.

As we pulled up to the restaurant, we were excited to see the vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant was larger than we expected, with a welcoming vibe that promised a great meal.

Menu Highlights

The menu offered a mix of flavors, featuring not just Vietnamese cuisine but a variety of dishes that catered to all tastes. We decided to sample a few different meals to get a taste of everything.

• Garlic Noodles with shrimp
• Specialty chicken with garlic
• Beef stir-fry with potatoes

Our Dining Experience

The food did not disappoint! Each dish was flavorful and satisfying, making our lunch a memorable experience. We particularly loved the garlic chicken, which was crispy and full of flavor.

Overall, dining at Vox Kitchen was a delightful way to kick off our California adventure. We left feeling full and happy, ready to explore more of what the area had to offer.

Going Get Coffee

After our meal, we decided to grab some coffee. There was a charming café nearby that caught our attention, known for its unique drinks and inviting atmosphere.

Exploring the Café

The café offered a variety of options, but we were particularly excited to try their iced coffee. The combination of flavors was rich and satisfying, making it a perfect pick-me-up.

We ordered a couple of specialty coffees and enjoyed the delightful ambiance. It was a great way to recharge before heading to our next destination.

Checking in at the Viv Hotel

Next, we made our way to The Viv Hotel for check-in. Conveniently located near Disneyland, this hotel was an ideal choice for our family.

Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by the staff. However, we learned that our room wasn’t ready yet due to the summer rush.

Since we arrived early, we decided to explore the nearby area while waiting for our room. There were plenty of shops and attractions to keep us entertained until check-in.

Checking Disney Downtown

Disney Downtown is a vibrant area full of fun and excitement. As we arrived, the atmosphere was electric, and we felt like kids again!

We walked around, taking in the sights and sounds. The new Star Wars shop caught our attention, showcasing incredible themed merchandise that any fan would love.

Shopping and Dining Options

Disney Downtown offers a mix of shopping and dining experiences. You can find everything from unique souvenirs to delicious treats, making it a perfect stop for families.

• Star Wars themed merchandise
• Delicious pastries and snacks
• Restaurants with diverse menus

We took some time to enjoy snacks while soaking in the lively atmosphere. It was a great way to relax before heading to our hotel.

Checking Out Our Room

After our fun at Disney Downtown, we headed to The Viv Hotel to check out our room. We were eager to see our accommodations after a busy day.

Room Overview

Upon entering our room, we were impressed by its size and comfort. The room featured two queen-size beds, making it perfect for our family.

Bathroom and Amenities

The bathroom was spacious and well-equipped, providing everything we needed for our stay. It felt like a cozy retreat after a day of adventure.

We appreciated the convenient location of the hotel, making it easy to access both Disney attractions and local eateries. This made our stay even more enjoyable!

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you during your family trip from Newark to California.

What is the best time to book flights for families?

Booking flights during off-peak seasons can help you find better deals. Aim for mid-week flights to avoid weekend rushes, which can lead to higher prices and crowded airports.

How can we keep kids entertained during the flight?

Bring along tablets loaded with their favorite shows or games. Snacks and small toys can also keep them engaged during the journey.

Are there family-friendly dining options at the airport?

Yes, many airports have family-friendly restaurants with kid-friendly menus. Look for places that offer quick service to make your dining experience smoother.