Aracely and Joseph Medina had been thinking for some time about planning a Metrolink adventure but just hadn’t gotten around to it. Then Aracely saw a Facebook post about OCTA’s Lunar New Year party at the Irvine Metrolink station. Every year around early February, OCTA sends hundreds of passengers off to celebrate the Golden Dragon Parade and Festival in Los Angeles after treating them to a party full of traditional Chinese food, fun, goodwill and free Metrolink tickets.
“I thought this would be the perfect time to ride Metrolink and experience something different, something new,” said Aracely.
And in one day, they enjoyed a different cultural experience, made new friends, discovered a great way to travel and began planning their next adventure.
The Medinas arrived at the Irvine station and enjoyed the festivities while waiting for the train to Los Angeles. In between the dragon dance and the traditional Chinese pastries, they introduced themselves to three other passengers and soon decided to spend the day together.
At the recommendation of one their new friends, a Hong Kong native, the couple tried a new restaurant. “It was one of the best spots to eat in Chinatown,” said Aracely. “While we there, a dragon went through the restaurant and the fireworks exploded every 15 minutes. If we hadn’t met our new friends, we never would have experienced this. We had the best time ever!”
Aracely and Joseph haven’t stopped talking about their adventure and are planning more trips on Metrolink, possibly to San Diego for a birthday or 10-year anniversary.
What advice do they have for other first-time Metrolink riders? “Don’t be shy!” said Aracely. “Ask for advice from fellow riders. Be willing to try something new. We did and we ended up meeting some great people.”
Metrolink is ideal for weekend adventurers who want to leave their cars home and avoid driving and parking hassles. With the Metrolink Weekend Day Pass, on Saturday or Sunday passengers can ride anywhere Metrolink travels for only $10. For ideas on places to see and things to do, visit octa.net.
Monday, March 3, 2014