So after a very eventful morning [won’t bore you with the details], I finally made it to the annual Travel & Adventure Show (only about a 45 min drive from Hollywood). I’m a newbie to the show but apparently its “California’s Largest Travel Show.”

Have to admit, thought I would be walking into a huge “come and travel to…” sales pitch. Not at all. There was something for everyone: Those seriously exploring international travel or those like me, looking to explore a little closer to home. Kids who can give a damn about travelling, had a rock climbing wall, etc. Adults who might have had a rough morning [points to self], had a cocktail stand. :)

I learned how to make authentic key lime pie with Chef Dave. Heard about the cool hidden treasures in SoCal. Subscribed to LA Magazine at a discounted price. Got free tickets to a Vegas show. Entered to win two sweepstakes… One of which I won from LA Magazine, who gave me a  free two-night stay at a resort in Palm Dessert (the post will come in October)!

Overall, I spent about 3.5 hours at the show (including sitting through two seminars) before I was over walking around. It was a really cool day. Informative and def worth the drive.

Pros: Seminars were informative and entertaining. Cool activities (rock climbing wall, indoor zipline, cocktails).

Cons: Have cash for convention center parking [who carries cash anymore?

Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center – 1/2013