Los Angeles surprised me completely on this trip to United States

I went to United States with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in Los Angeles. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for New Orleans gumbo on day two and went back every day after that.

Statue of Liberty was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was world-class national parks that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 21 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.