Fourth of July!
Trip Start
Unknown
1
8
43
Trip End
Ongoing
Where I stayed
SeaTac, Washington
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Our flight on Virgin America to Seattle was excellent. I have to say out of all the flights and airlines I took on my 7 week holiday in the USA, Virgin America was by far my favorite. Also a treat upon arriving into Seattle was being able to see the awesome peaks of Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens from the plane.
Upon arrival, we called our motel's complimentary shuttle to pick us up from the airport and were transported to nearby Travelodge SeaTac. I can't say much nice things about this motel. I suppose the room was livable, but the reception wasn't the friendliest, and borderline creepy. The motel was also situated in an area that didn't feel particularly safe and didn't have many shops or restaurants nearby. With our stomachs growling for food, we had no choice but to celebrate the fourth of July at a Wendy's located within walking distance to the motel. On our short walk back to the motel, we could hear and see fireworks, most likely from private celebrations, being ignited all around.
We didn't do much more after dinner, and the next morning returned back to SeaTac to collect our rented vehicle for our trip to the Olympic National Park and later on, Canada.
Lessons Learned
1. Take Virgin America wherever possible in America, especially if you're on the West Coast. Cheap flights, comfortable seats, entertainment, good service.
2. If you plan to stay near SeaTac International, I would recommend staying in Southcenter, rather than anywhere else. There are tons of stores and dining options there compared to anywhere else near the airport.
3. The majority of car rental companies in SeaTac operate off-site. Therefore you'll need to take a complimentary shuttle from the airport to your respective car rental office. Make sure you remember this when returning your vehicle and give yourself extra time to be shuttled back to the terminal.
Experience Ratings
1. Virgin America SFO to SEA - 9/10 - the best a budget flight could be. As mentioned, commendable service and comfort.
2. Travelodge SeaTac - 4.5/10 - rooms okay, reception personnel scary, area where the motel was in seemed sketchy. Didn't feel comfortable being outside when the sun was down and with no vehicle with us.
