Accommodation - Friendship Motor Inn [Los Angeles] Review

Very kind manager

4*

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We stayed in LA for just 3 nights but we were delighted with our choice of the Friendship Motor Inn and our experience with the manager (unfortunately I did not get his name). My 4 star rating is directly attributed to his great customer service as I believe customer service is fundamental in any hotel, or business experience for that matter. The manager made check in simple and was always happy to give us information on LA, tell us stories, and generally help out. He seemed to work 247, he'd be at breakfast in the morning (breakfast was fairly good, not a great selection but enough to keep you going) and we'd then even see him doing laundry in the late evening!

Other than the customer service, the room was nice, we were on the second floor, we didn't drive but there appeared to be plenty of parking. The heater was good and we had a microwave and fridge among a comfortable bed and other good amenities including good TV channels.

It is situated in an okay part of LA, and the transport to and from the motel via the Metro was good enough (there are some stops nearby). Unfortunately, there aren't many grocery stores in the vicinity, and the nearest fast food chains are about a 10+ minute walk away.

Housekeeping was good and overall we enjoyed our stay. The only issue was probably the location, but if you have a car then I don't see anything wrong with this place!

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g32655-d3386634-r745952860-Friendship_Motor_Inn-Los_Angeles_California.html

Attraction - Twin Peaks Review

Excellent views

4*

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To get to the twin peaks we took the metro and then the bus to a stop somewhere in Midtown Terrace. From the bus stop we followed Google Maps up some fairly challenging and muddy pathways until we reached the peaks. The views from the top are spectacular and well worth the journey. There was also a viewing area with telescopes and a toilet if necessary. There wasn't much else other than the view and the viewing area. If you have time though, I would recommend visiting the peaks for the view and the pictures.

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g60713-d105363-r745913223-Twin_Peaks-San_Francisco_California.html

Attraction - Alcatraz Island Review

Great Experience

5*

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We recommend booking this in advance as I hear it can get full before the date. We opted for the 10am departure so there was time to get there in the morning but also plenty of time to explore Alcatraz. Boarding the boat was simple and there was plenty of space. Once we arrived, a park ranger gave an insightful and instructive talk which, credit to him was humorous at the same time, and then everyone was free to explore. We looked around the outskirts of the island for a bit, luckily the whole island was still open as the ranger informed us that it would be partially shut in later weeks due to bird nesting. We then proceeded to the free [included] audio tour in the main prison area. This tour was long enough that you get to see everything, but short enough that you don't become bored. The commentary was excellent as well, no monotone voices or long pauses etc. We then went on exploring and also watched the short film that is available, though the room was very cold so it was hard to concentrate! We then departed on a boat of our choosing (you just rock up whenever) and were transported back safely and efficiently. This is a must do if you're visiting San Francisco.

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g60713-d102523-r745913816-Alcatraz_Island-San_Francisco_California.html