Thanks @bomburg.
It's the first time US.. but not the first time intercontinental. We're flying direct from DUS so that is an advantage. Also.. I agree.. driving out after a long flight is not ideal.. Hence my suggestion to drive to pasadena to sleep as it seems easier to continue from there on Monday then the beach towns... as I read that LA traffic is kinda like hell on earth. Would you agree to that?
I know tiago pass (or what is the name) will be closed and we have to approach from Merced. (or Fresno)
Bit of a bummer that we can't do without car in LA though. All hotels show steep parking fees.
Co-Pilot doesn't need data connection.. it downloads the maps.