I´m an expat finally returning to the U.S. from Europe on a RTW via Australia, flying the BNE-AKL-LAX leg with my mom and sister (same flight but theirs is ticketed as an AA codeshare).

1. How is clearing customs at LAX? I ask because I will be bringing back all my stuff from Europe.

2. Is there any place at LAX where one can pay to take a shower?

Yonatan

Flew MEL/LAX March 2000 on UA. Arrived in morning. LONG(1 hour +) delay at LAX. The UA flight arrived about 10 minutes after a Air New Zealand flight(MEL/LAX). So, 2 747's clogged up the waiting area. Was especially aggravating since had run into similar situation in MEL the week before. BUT, the Aussies called in extra Customs people to process us through faster. Also, the Aussies were open to having my group of coworkers process with the same Customs officer. That did NOT work at LAX with US.<p>

Can get shower at LAX IF you travel first/business class on UA. "Arrivals by United" program at the LAX airport Westin. You need to take a shuttle to the Westin. I was lucky enough to use the Presidential/Penthouse suite there http://www.flyertalk.com/airports/ftairports_forum/smile.gif ! Got to use the rooftop hot tub, AND the shower. Also, at MEL, you can use the shower at the UA Red Carpet Club, OR the "Rent a Towel" service at the lottery ticket/candy stand at the far right corner of the International Terminal checkin area.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by yonatan:

2. Is there any place at LAX where one can pay to take a shower?

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Not inexpensive, but for $40-50 you can get a day-use room at the Sheraton LAX. Depending on your circumstances a nice chance to relax and freshen up.