... I dropped in to John Wayne once for fuel then burnt a large proportion of it waiting to depart! Spoke to locals as thought it was my quietly spoken English accent that may have been causing the lack of RT response but was advised to avoid it for the reason I mentioned. Maybe if you're based there its easier? LGB used to be busier - similar traffic volumes to Stanstead on a quiet day when I did my PPL! But seemed to be much quieter there this year. The Prop Room resturant comes recommended too!!
Have flown with Rotoraviation, not flown with LA Helicopters but they come recommended from a mechanic friend - who incidently does their maintance - so I know they are safe! Both have ex-US Helicopters staff which was where I originally trained. Like wise Corporate has USH ex chief pilot and ex chief instructor working there - again both excellent pilots and instructors.