Shortest feasible trip to California?

[Eyesopenwideawake]

I've recently found my biological father, and half siblings and lots of other family, in California. My father is in the last stages of Alzheimers and I am keen to meet him before he dies - although I realise he won't be aware of who I am, it will mean a lot to me and to his wife and children (they've told me this).

I want to keep this first visit relatively short so as not to impose or to be overwhelmed by meeting too many people. Would 5 days be realistic? I'll be flying business class from Europe so will be able to sleep en route there and back. Would that be too short a trip?

Yes, it’s doable, but I know the reason is to see your father, but could you a few use extra days as holiday. We went late March one year, flew out early am and arrived in LA around 4.30 their time.

Yes I’d do that trip op, if it were me. If you have some more time could you stay there separately for a bit longer or spend some time eg on the east coast before heading home? Sounds like you might need some time to take everything in and reflect after meeting your family.

Flying club/business in BA you get a seat that folds down to a flat bed, so if you can sleep on a plane, you can stay on UK time so any length of stay becomes feasible.

Hope it goes well for you.

Absolutely fine, we did 4 nights in Vegas and had an an absolute blast, jet lag going west isn't too painful (though you'll be up early) I used melatonin when I got back and was fine. Just make the flight part of your break and it needn't be a chore.

I went to California for 5 days when there was a good deal on with Virgin - took my primary school age child and it was fine. Jet lag can hit with the 8 hour time difference but if you’re flying business that will help.
Hope your trip goes well, sounds well worth it.

OMG. Flights booked.

@Eyesopenwideawake

Well done. Hope it goes well. Love to your Dad even if he doesn't know x