USA

Newsletter from USA

Washington, D.C., Apr 22 - 28

Back on U.S. soil!!! After being away for 13.5 months (and having visited 17 countries), we expected a hassle going through immigration and customs - but it wasn't a problem at all. We enjoyed a week of eating, sleeping, walking, shopping, and more eating with my parents. The azaleas in the backyard were in full bloom and the weather held out for our "welcome home" pig roast! It was great to see family and friends in the area.

Miami, FL, Apr 29 - May 3

Our next stop was Miami, Florida ...another area with lots of family and friends. We visited briefly with my niece, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and my grandmother. We squeezed in a quick trip to Key West (gotta take advantage of those off season and mid-week rates!). Sorry we didn't get to see everybody on this trip - but we will be back!

Austin, TX, May 4 - ...

We are in Austin, Texas now. We're helping out Lon's mom (Gretchen) while she recovers from surgery. We'll post more from Austin in the near future.

region	lodging	$US / night	rating	notes
Washington, D.C.	Mami & Papi	$0.0*		No place like home
Miami	Mario & Christy's	$0.0		We're waiting for the new place ...
Boyton Beach	Rose	$0.0		Very hospitable with an excellent tea service
Key West	YHA	$74.0		Our first hostel in America
	Speakeasy Inn	$74.0		Good atomsphere, right on Duval
Austin	Mom G.'s place	$0.0		Lovely place but some household chores are expected

* all inclusive - all meals were provided. This was often the case because there was nowhere else to go.