Catalina Island Food Tour, Avalon, California (B)

When my friend Toni told me she has never been to Catalina Island before, I was stunned. She’s lived in California most of her life and has never taken the one hour Catalina Express boat over to the island. I on the other hand, have been to the island over 50 times, because my parents designed and built a home up in the hills below the William Wrigley Jr. mansion, named Mt. Ada.

One day after Zumba class, Toni mentioned that her birthday was coming up and that she would love to go to Catalina for the day. She asked if I could be her guide. Excitedly, I told her that if we travel on the Catalina Express on her actual birthday, then her roundtrip fare is FREE. Catalina Express offers a “share your birthday ride” promotion. Not only do you receive two tickets with the purchase of one full fare Adult ticket, but also deals and discounts on hotel stays and activities.

As she went online, she bought two upgrade tickets for the Commodore Lounge to enjoy special privileges. The upgrade includes early boarding, larger seats, a complimentary drink and snack. Another friend, Susie, joined us to help Toni celebrate her special day. Upon check-in, the birthday girl received a special button to wear. The staff and other passengers smiled and offered her a friendly greeting. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).