Friday 17th
Waking up we had our taxi to Heathrow booked for 8.45am, but the flight was delayed for about an hour, so we delayed the taxi till 9.15am. We got to the airport quite early, so had time for Bhavni to buy some sun glasses and have a drink.
As we went to board we found our selves selected for a bag check (conspiracy thoughts from Bhavni as she reckoned in security they made her wait so she had to go through the tighter check). Anyway when we got on, we settled in for the flight which was generally ok, with us even getting some sleep, though the food was a bit sub par (Bhavnis was all potato).
We arrived at 4.10pm local, breezed through immigration, got the bags and then found the shuttle to Alamo. We ended up picking a red 4×4 jeep (after too much hanging around). It was then a bit of a drive to Romada LA Downtown West, where we checked in an freshened up before heading out to LA Live, where we ate some food in Yard House (Slightly strange food but we managed to find some veg options). After dinner we pretty much drove to the hotel and called it a night.
Saturday 18th
We were up reasonably early, getting out of the hotel by around 7.30. We drove to Denny’s for breakfast, where Bhavni was introduced to the pancakes – One slam (4 things) was enough for us both. We then drove to a parking lot that I had seen near the Hollywood walk of fame ($7 all day). From here it was a walk along the road, occasionally recognising a name or 2, towards the Chinese theatre and the mall there. From the mall you can see the Hollywood sign quite nicely, whilst at the Chinese theatre there was the cement imprints of famous hands. We had a drink and a pretzel in the sun before heading back to the car, via some souvenir shops.
The next stop was the viewpoint on Mulholland drive (Hollywood bowl viewpoint), which had great views over the hazy city scape. Here we had some Indians slightly nudge our car, but deny it after I ask. From here we carried on the Mulholland drive for a bit, then made our way to Santa Monica Blvd then up and down Rodeo Drive, before following the road to Santa Monica. We parked and made our way to the walking street, where Bhavni ducked into a fast food Mexican restaurant (Chipotle) – ok food. We then ambled up the road buying a few things until we had to go move the car, which we moved to another car park. We then went accross onto the famous pier. Talk about crowded – the beach was quite full and the pier was heaving. Wondering around for a while, we then headed back to the car, getting a nice drink on the way at the mall, then a shopping stop at sears where we picked up some stuff.
Driving back we got a bit of traffic, but all in all was not that bad. Back at the hotel we chilled for a bit before having a round (with a stop at wallgreens for some supplies and water).
Sunday 19th
Checking out reasonably early, we were soon on our way taking the 101. About an hour and a half later we got off at Santa Barbara, to get some food. Most of the shops were still closed as it was 9ish, but we found a busy restaurant called Joes. I thought I would indulge, having eggs Florentine, but regretted it later as I felt not great after, so we had a walk around for a bit before setting off on the long ocean drive to San Francisco.
We stopped at Ragged point for a break, having tea and coffee and a stretch of the legs. Bhavni had a bit of a snooze during the journey, and it was almost 7Pm by the time we got to San Francisco. We decided to head straight to the Golden Gate Bridge, however I managed to take the wrong off ramp, so we got introduced to the crazy hills and the cool views. Eventually we got to the bridge and got off at the viewpoint before the entrance for some photos before heading over the bridge to the upper viewpoints. This was great as the view was clear and we had got there for near sunset time, so the colours were really splendid.
After we headed back to town and got to our hotel (Diva which was right near Union Square), checked in and then drove the car to the nearby parking I had booked. After we freshened up we went for dinner at Uncle Vitos, grabbing a takeaway pizza for the next morning.
Monday 20th
We were out of the hotel by 8am, taking the F streetcar to pier 33. We were there early enough that we had some time to look around before boarding the boat. We went to the top deck, for good views of the bridge (despite the crazy tourist who insisted that she and her partner can fit in a space for one). The boat only took about 15 minutes to get to Alcatraz, where we disembarked and then listened to the ranger talk about the island.
There was a talk on Indianlands that was starting at 10, so after getting the Beautiful Park pass, we waited around until the talk started. It was a talk on the Indian occupation of Alcatraz as protest about their conditions, and took us slowly to the top. We then joined the main audio tour of the jail house, which was quite a good tour of the facility, there was even a demo of the closing of the cell doors. After the tour we made our way back to the dock (a few closed paths non withstanding).
Getting back to the mainland, we walked past the other piers towards Fishermans Wharf, getting the required ice cream. We found a camera shop which allowed Bhavni to get a replacement part. There was not much vegetarian looking food here0, so we headed up the hill in the heat (steep climb) to the bottom of Lombard street. This was a great view as you could see the curving road framed by the hydrangeas. Climbing the street we then got on a cable car getting off at china town. Here I found a shop selling bubble tea (which was most welcome). We then wondered around eventually finding ourselves back near union square for some shopping. Getting hungry we got a bagel at the place that Nirav recommended and then saw the Mac store he had a hand in. We then got back to the hotel. I did some bits and pieces for back in London whilst Bhavni went back out for a walk and some extra shopping.
Bhavni had read about a restaurant located on Valencia street, so after getting the hotel to ring but no answer, we headed out towards there. We gave up walking as it was a bit dodgy looking and got a tram instead. However getting to the restaurant, we found it was closed with a paper written note on the front. So we had a walk around the area looking for any other places of interest which was futile, though a bit scary when walking past groups of people loitering round streets. So we caught the tram back and went to the Thai restaurant next door for food.
Tuesday 21st
After checking out of the hotel, we took a slightly wrong freeway exit out of the city, which meant that we were on the way to Sacramento. Toying with the idea of going there, we decided it would be too long (and we had already gone over a toll bridge), so we changed from the 80 to the 88 towards Jackson. Then going south towards Angels Camp we passed through the town of San Andreas (Grand Theft Auto fame). We got out at Angels Camp, to have a look, but pretty much all the shops were closed, however the visitor centre was open and the lady there was very friendly, and suggested what to do.
We found ourselves on the way to the national forest passing Murphys and going to Big Trees State park (North Grove). The entrance fee was $10 (since it is a state park and not part of the national parks). The initial thought was to do a small wonder as it was getting a bit later than I had planned for, but in the end we did the whole circuit of trees. The first “tree” we came across was the “Discovery Tree”, which is a massive stump over 7m wide and all that remains. It was over 1200 years old. There were lots of massive trees, with quite a few named. However the saddest one was the Mother of the Forest, which was a massive (98m) old (2525 years) of which only a 30m burnt stump remains as the guy who discovered it had the barked stripped to show around.
After the walk we then made out way back to Baker, where we had some ice cream as most of the restaurants were closed, we then went to the supermarket to get some supplies for the next day, before heading to Senora to the Best western plus. For dinner as we did not fancy going far, so we ate dinner at the on site pine restaurant. Ok they got Bhavnis Pasta wrong by adding meatballs, then just removed them, then had to make a new batch – other wise ok food. Before bed we made some sandwiches.
Wednesday 22nd
Today was another early rise day. Getting ready, we went to the Pine restaurant for breakfast, so much busier. It took a bit of time to get food ordered and to our table, but all in all we were out and on the road before 7am. We took the old priest road up, then it was a long drive on the flats to get to Yosemite. We managed to drive and park at the half dome village, but we just missed a bus by the time we got our selves sorted. Luckily it was not too long before the next bus came along and we soon found our selves getting off at the Happy Isles stop and crossing the bridge to the start of the Mist trail by 9am.
The trail was going to be a long one at 540m high. The first target after the bridge was the top of the Vernal fall, this was cool as the trail lived up to its name as we were covered in spray (mist) from the waterfall as we climbed the stone steps. It was nice and cooling so it helped us not realise the effort we were exerting, though we had to watch our footing a little on the slick surfaces. At the top of the fall was a nice area where we sat and had a rest and some snacks, being careful to not let the chipmunks get our food or in our bags.
The next climb to the top of the Navada fall was a bit more difficult as it was now much hotter and there was no cooling mist this time. Getting to the top, we took some time for photos before sitting under the shade of a tree and having our lunch, with views of the famous half dome next to us. For the way down we took the Muir trail (after finding the right route). This was a much gentler trail then trying to go down the stairs and we also got some soaking from mini waterfalls at the beginning. Finishing our walk we took the bus back to the parking lot and got ready to head out.
We drove out of the valley (taking some pictures on the way) getting back onto the 120, but heading east instead, towards the high pass. There were some really cool views on the way, the first being a look back over to the valley from a viewpoint, being able to see the half dome clearly. Then we passed lots of high meadows, then we had a little walk around Tenaya lake.
At the top of the pass (and the exit of the park) we were near 10,000 foot. Then it was a decent to Lee Vining, where we had a quick stop to have a look at the salt lake there (the visitor centre was closed). We could only see some of the formations from a distance. So we carried on to Baker, where we checked into the Travelodge and freshened up. Asking where to go for dinner, we were advised that the Italian The Upper Crust was good, and she did not know how the Mexican would be for us – it was not as all the food (even the rice) had meat in it. So it was Italian, too much food ordered – including a dozen mozzarella sticks and a pasta each, but it was decent.
Thursday 23rd
As we knew it was going to be hot, it was another early start. We had a quick breakfast – cereal and then some toast, then we headed out by 6.25am.
The drive south from Bishop was to Lone Pine was quite scenic as it was a lot more lush (relatively) then the other side of the mountains, with the two mountain chains on either side. From Lone pine the road headed towards the western mountains on the 190, and towards Panament Springs.
This was a climb up the pass, with the vegetation rapidly dwindling, until we emerged into the next valley (and into Death Valley). This was proper desert, with salt flats in the distance and bare mountains. We had a few cars coming every now and then sparodicly in the opposite direction, but otherwise we were alone on the straight roads.
Getting over the next lot of mountains with an even more alien landscape, we got into the main valley and made our way towards Stovepipe wells – another small place. We then next had a quick stop to look at the Mesquite Flats sand dunes (though I did not walk far into them). We then drove past Furnace Creek and turned onto the Badwater Road.
We got to Badwater itself at around 9.30am – the lowest point in America. It was already starting to get really hot, but we walked out onto the salt flats – just to the begging mind. We watched as one couple just carried on walking on in the heat. Bhavni got so hot she resorted to wearing a shawl on her head. We then headed back up the Badwater road. We took the Artist Drive on the way back – its a one way, which went up into the foothills and round past lots of rocks that were all sorts of pastel colours due to the minerals.
Joining the main road (with the crazy guy walking in the heat), we then went back to Furnace Creek and the visitor centre there (reading 109F outside), where there was a nice 3d map of the park and cool AC. From here we continued on our journey stopping at Zabriskie Point, where I ventured out for the climb out to look out at the strange landscape there. We then drove out of Death Valley to Death Valley Junction, where Bhavni took over the drive.
We had to drive past north, past Indian Springs and into North LV, where we saw the big towers on the strip from a distance (we managed to avoid going into the main city, but did not find a place to stop). We then headed up the SH15, with me back in the driving seat, all the way to St George, where we checked into the Best Western Plus Abbey Inn, which came with a big room. For a really early dinner we headed to the Crazy Noodle Cafe, where we had a flatbread and a Asian salad (along with sweet tea) – very nice. Then off to the supermarket for shopping, to get some supplies to make sandwiches, for the next day, in the hotel.
Friday 24th
So another day waking up early, so we could leave early. The buffet was mostly the usual fare, maybe a bit greater, but with nicer seating. We then checked out and headed to Springdale. As we got there, the signs said the car park in the national park was full, so we parked the car outside stop five in the town, and got ourselves ready – just missing the first bus after we parked. It was a 20 minute wait for the next bus.
We got to the visitor centre at 7.40am, but it was closed until 8am. We wanted to ask what to do as my initial idea of Angels Landing would have been way too difficult in the heat. We thought it would be nice to go on the guide led tour, but not only was it full, the drop out list was full also, so we decided to do some of the gentler walks, so we joined the massive line for the buses into the park, which took a little while. We got off at stop 5 – Zion Lodge and started the walk to the Emerald pools, already it was quite warm. We got to the lower emerald pool and spent a bit of time there, before climbing up to the upper pool, which was right next to the cliff face up. On the way down we then took the Kenyatta trail to the Grotto, which gave some nice views.
At the Grottos, we took the bus all the way to the Temple of Sinawava – the last stop – seeing angels landing as we went round big bend. We started to walk to the narrows via the riverside walk, which was nice as it had plenty of shade. We then got to the narrows – that was not what I expected – a stream we had to go through. No wonder we had heard talk about aqua shoes. After much diliberation we walked in with our walking shoes and made our way up to the next bank… oh there was more river. We continued for quite a bit in the water, but when the depth started to get up to our short levels, we decided to turn back. We were not hot though as the water was nice and cold.
Getting out with our wet shoes, we walked it off to the bus point (in more sun) and then got the bus back to Zion Lodge, where we found a place on the grass with a bit of shade and had some lunch, lots of others were doing the same.
We then caught the bus to the entrance, then the next bus to the car, where we had an ice cream (asked for 2 scoops, got the equivalent of 4-6 uk scoops).
After the break we then drove into the park and up the Carmel highway, through the tunnel and switchbacks of the pass. We got past Carmel Junction and then drove to Glendale, where we checked into the Smith Hotel. Getting ready we headed out quickly as the German bakery in Orderville closed early. We got there and had some pizza type bread for dinner. Back at the hotel, we chilled for a bit (Bhavni liked Sally Bollywood on TV) then went for a small walk before sunset, but it felt a little odd being the only ones out.
Saturday 25th
Today was a slightly more relaxed start, with us waking up at 7am. We went down for breakfast and had a leisurely meal with Rachelle and her neighbour discussing politics with us, over our healthy waffle and fruits.
We checked out and headed out around 8.30am going north until hitting the highway 12, where we stopped soon after at the famous Red canyon, with its visitor centre, where they basically said you could spend quite a few days travelling the road and the things to see on the way.
Well the first place after was Bryce National Park, where I had assumed we would go to one of the viewpoints only, but we were advised to go right to the end and make our way back stopping at the viewpoints as they were going then to be on our side of the road. We got to the end – Rainbow point, where we first stopped, then slowly made our way back stopping at places like Pondereso Canyon, Agua Canyon and others. The final one was at Bryce point, requiring a bit of climbing (especially as it was now warming up), but with the famous view. All in all we were there around 2 hours.
We then carried on past towns such as Tropic and Cannonville, stopping at an interesting place overlooking a valley near the Grand Staircase Escalante, where we had some beverages. The scenery brilliant as it kept on changing, we stopped at Powel Point for a lookout, then drove past places like the Upper Granneries past Escalante, chasing the couple of clouds (a rare sight on our trip). We stopped here to have a look at the rock hieroglyphics. Deciding to not to take the Hells Backbone Road, as we did not want to mess around in the heat so we carried on on the 12 and then drove up over Boulder Mountain – a nice climb with nice vegetation and views.
We then stopped for a subway at around 2.30pm, quick and simple, then motored along on the SH24 – a much faster road. But by the time we were near Moap, it was close to 6pm, so we went straight into Arches National Park, it was so late, there was no one at the gate, luckily I already had printed the map. We first went to Park Avenue, what a cool sight, then stopped at various stops along the way like the organ and sheep rock. We got out and had a good walk around balanced rock, then a view at panorama point before going to the parking lot for delicate arch, around 7.30.
It was sweltering hot even at this time (no wonder there were scary signs about danger of heat), so it was quite a hard slog up. We started following some others, and thats how we found our selves going up to delicate arch on a really dodgy bit, up steep smooth rock with a large cliff face below us. It was daunting enough that someone who ended up with us seemed to give up as we did not see her after.
It was busy but not exceptionally so -There were a few annoying people who were on facetime at loud volume. Taking a few photos, we found a place to sit and relaxed for a while – taking photos with the changing light on the arch (the symbol of the Utah plate). We also took photos of the nice sun set on the other side.
Getting back was much easier and safer – we saw where we went wrong. We got back to the car and drove into Moap and into the Super 8. Reception were not very interested and when we got to the room, we found that the floor was quite dirty. It was so late however, we headed to town and luckily got a take away from Jays pasta (they were just closed but Bhavni asked if we could get food). We fuelled up and went back to the room to eat.
Sunday 26th
Early to rise at 5.15am, then we had a bit of food at 6, the place was already jammed packed (really not enough space for a hotel this size), so on the road by 6.25am. We headed into Arches (again no one was at the entrance this early).
We got to Balanced rock and had a proper walk around this time in the cool. We then headed to the Windows section parking and walking to the Double arch. We spent quite a bit of time chilling under the arches, climbing to different view points. Then we headed to the South window and Turret Arch, before heading to the start of the trail again as the ranger talk was to start at 9.
The walking talk was a gentle amble around the Northern window and to Turret arch with some simple Q&A’s for children, which took around 45 minutes. We took the primitive trail back to the parking lot. We had a quick stop at the visitor centre on the way back then to Moab and the hotel.
The room was not clean when we got back, so I actually had to ring up and complain. As we got our stuff ready the cleaner came and we explained the problem, then left them to it. We headed to town to the Laundromat and doing quite a big wash, getting a nice frozen drink whilst waiting (we did a bit of exploring the local shops as well). Getting back to the room, we found it was much better, enough to warrant a tip even. We finished the pasta off for lunch then had a little bit of an afternoon sleep.
We were back out at 6.30 in the evening, heading to the Devils camp ground in Arches. Parking at the lot, we headed on the trail, which then became a sandy walkway, to see landscape arch. We first passed Tunnel Arch and then Pine Tree Arch (aptly named for the tree), before getting to Landscape Arch. As you can not walk under it its just hard to appreciate just how large it is – nearly 100m, but you get a feel when comparing to the trees under it.
We headed to the amphitheatre next, but as we were early we hunted our a place to watch the sun set, before finding some seats. The ranger talk was about stars, so quite a nice topic. After he pointed out lots of stars and even Jupiter Saturn and Mars as well. On the way back we had a quick stop at park avenue to see the stars in the greater darkness.
Fuelling up we then got to the room, face timed Kenya as it was Mitens Birthday, then had a bit of dinner.
Monday 27th
Another wake up at 5.15am to avoid the heat with grabbing a bit of food and being on the road at 6.30am. This time we drove towards Canyon Lands national park – the island in the sky section. We were too early for the visitor centre, so we proceeded to the end of the road to the Grand view point – which was spectacular – a massive look down onto the lower surroundings and the maze of topographical features. We did not go for the walk to the tip (Bhavni was not feeling great), so we headed back stopping at many of the viewpoints.
We decided to get out and do the full walk up to Mesa arch. That was nice as it was not very far, and the arch (at our level) looked over the lower surroundings. We then went to the visitor centre (as we decided to not visit upheaval dome as Bhavni was pretty exhausted and the heat was building). We saw a video about geology and how arches are formed then headed back to Moap as the patio talk was a while away and would outside.
Bhavni woke up as I drove into the hotel car park. We had noodles for lunch along with some fruit, then knocked out for a couple of hours.
We spent the evening in the hotel.
Tuesday 28th
We could afford to have breakfast a bit later then the past few days, it was still very busy. After checking out we drove south towards Bluff. We then took the turning towards Mexican Hat and into Monument Valley. The classic few towers that you see in the films appeared. We veered away from the visitor centre (in retrospect a mistake as it was not that far out of our way). We stopped at Kenyata at the Blue Coffee pot Cafe for tea. Not a normal request as they did not have much tea. Refreshed we asked for the bill, however they said it was complimentary. I felt guilty so I payed anyway.
Getting to Page, we found our selves too early to check into the hotel, the Rodeway inn, so we went a few doors down and had Mexican for lunch. After checking we then got some medicine for Bhavni, from across the road then had a bit of time to chill. At 2.30 we walked up to the next building to check in for the slot canyon tour. We watched some hoop dancing before getting in the cars. Where had the blue skies gone? The sky looked menacing and in fact it rained really cold rain and the wind picked up blowing sand around. In the canyon the wind was less but still there and we kept on getting showered with fine sand. Really pretty place though and we took lots of pictures, with the guide directing lots and saying lots of names such as “dragon eye”, “monument valley” etc.
It had calmed down by the time we got back out. Heading back in the truck Bhavni managed to loose her cap (the one on her head, the camera one also flew off, but we managed to get the driver to go back for it).
After getting back and a quick respite in the hotel room, we set out again and crossed the bridge past glen canyon dam and to a view point overlooking Lake Powell.
After the nice views it was back in the car to drive to the visitor centre for Powell Reservoir. This was nice and had some good views of the Dam as well as information on its construction. We were not there for long as it was soon closing.
We then drove to Horseshoe Bend. It was reasonably busy and the walk to the bend was up and over a small hill using a mostly sand path. The bend was impressive and we spent a while taking pictures and walking around. Also amusing were some of the families there. We sat for a while before going back thinking it unlikely that the sun would be visible as it set. The clouds partially broke as we got to our car, but clouded over soon after.
Getting back to the motel we watched some TV and had some light food.
Wednesday 29th
Up at 6.30 getting to the reception and then having breakfast. Our drive today was down the SH89 towards Cameron. There were a few view points on the way (the pay for ones we did not bother with), we went to one, it was quite a long walk in the sun to the overlook of the canyon on this side.
We stopped at the “trading post” for some food and drinks. I mistakenly ordered a cactus milkshake which was pretty bad (too sweet). We had the Fried flat bread as well which was nice (and unhealthy). We walked around the centre for a bit before continuing on on the 64 into the national park.
We drove to the Desert view viewpoint. Getting out into the heat we found it was quite a busy place, but it was our fist proper look at the Canyon. We spent a bit of time near the old tower, then made our way to the car and got on our way. There were a few stops that we made on our way at other viewpoints. As we drove along the amount of trees increased until we found ourselves in woods. We then had a decent stop at the Grand View point (aptly named), before going to the visitor centre. We had to park in a further car park as it was quite busy. We got in and ended up watching a film about how the canyon was created, then another film about geology. We got some advice on where to go at night and how to use the buses from the rangers there.
Heading outside, it was raining so we were cold and slightly wet by the time we for to the car. We then drove out of the park to Tusayan and checked into the red feather lodge – actually quite a nice hotel. We then walked (in the rain) across the road to the Mexican restaurant for some vegetarian food, then back to the room for a rest.
At around 6pm we left and headed back into the park, finding some parking not too far from Bright Angel Lodge, Bhavni got we to carry all the gear. We caught the bus to Powell Point along the Hermit Rd. Amazing views. We then walked over to Hopi point and set our selves up in a great spot. As we sat waiting for sunset it started getting busier, then amazingly the sun broke through. We were treated to the amazing colours with the sunset. We caught the bus back, then got in the car. It was then back to the hotel (with people stopping in the road to photograph wildlife). We had some light food there.
Thursday 30th
We had a lazier start today, waking up and leaving the hotel by around 8.30am. Bhavni took over driving duty at first until we reached Williams (about an hour), where we stopped for breakfast. Its an old route 66 town, and was quite full looking. We parked and had a walk around (seeing all the old memorabilia being sold) looking for a place to eat, settling for Pine Country Restaurant – I had porridge and Bhavni had bread (with lots of butter). Filling up on cheaper petrol I took over driving again and we then drove all the way to Hoover Dam – around 2.5hours. You have to pass into Navada then take the side turning back to the Dam in AZ again. The clouds over Williams had given in to scorching sunshine here, and as parking here was expensive and quite a walk (did not see what the prices in the Dam were), we just parked quickly for a few pictures and then got back on our way.
Getting to Vegas the radio started giving announcements and weather warnings – cloud was building again. We got into the city catching some of the rain, with some of the roads flooding. Following google maps took us to the back of the Ballagio, so we had to go around to the front (the strip), which took a bit of searching for the entrance, where we parked in the parking garage which was really full. We went and checked in, long lines but did not take too long. We then had to get all the basic stuff from the car and take it down the garage lifts and round to room lifts.
I fetched most of the rest of our stuff from the car, then we chilled for a while. For dinner we booked Largo, the Italian in the hotel. After dinner we wondered around the casino for a bit (placing a few casual bets), then went to watch “O” – a cirque du soleil performance. It was very strange but spectacular at the same time, with the diving into water. We then took to our car fro a drive up and down the strip, with me pointing out as much as I knew.
Friday 1st
We had a lie in, waking up at 9. We had breakfast in cafe bellagio, mostly toast and tea, then headed out. We went first through Ceasers Palace, shopping a bit and admiring some photos at a store. We carried on all the walking through the casinos, stopping for a coffee at starbucks in Treasure Island. Crossing the road, we spent a bit of time getting confused in Wynn, then eventually ending up in the Venetian.
We spent quite a bit of time walking around the indoor canal (the most number of people in saris that we had seen in America). Getting hungry we then looked for something to eat – Bhavni did not fancy Italian or Mexican. Guess what Bhavni found, a south Indian outlet, so it as idlii for lunch. We then walked up to Paris (not as cool as I thought it would be) before heading back to the hotel for some rest. For dinner, we went to Noodle in the hotel – ordered a bit too much.
Saturday 2nd
Checking out reasonably early, (after picking up a croissant which took too long), we loaded up our car and headed out on SH15 south to LA. Its a really busy road, though luckily only traffic the other way in places was standstill (4th July weekend). Its not that interesting a drive after the views we had seen over the holiday. We stopped a few times only (once at an outlet), before arriving at Nans house. Its right on a hill so had a really nice breeze going through and a nice view. We relaxed there with most of the family for a bit, then went for an hour shopping round the same outlet we had stopped at. Back at Nans house we had a proper Indian meal (including bitter gourd curry).
Soon it was time to go, it took a good 40 minutes to get to the rental place, but dropping the car and getting the bus to LAX did not take too long. We had online checked in earlier, our seats were not next to each other, but no matter who we asked they said to ask the next lot of people. Boarding the plane was a bit of a rush, meaning that when we wanted to board they asked us to put our one hand luggage in the hold. Protesting the woman at the gate was rudely indifferent. Luckilly one of the attendants (Bernard) just let us wait until the other passengers had loaded to see if there was room – there was plenty. The flight itself was not great and we had not managed to get seated next to each other.
At Washington the next morning after transferring and finding a place for tea (sort of – only 2 tea bags in the whole place) we found that our flight was delayed a bit. So waiting for a while, the delay was extended – waiting for a part. All we could do is wait. Then the best – flight is cancelled, so we had to go to a counter to get our boarding passes for the next flight, which was leaving at 6pm. If they had cancelled straight away we would have had enough time to go into Washington city from Dulles. However as time was limited we went the Steven F Udvar-Hazy Centre, associated with the Smithsonian. Its full of flight and space craft. First we listened to a nasa expert talking about the Blackbird then the space shuttle, then another tour about fighter aircraft, before we saw a 3D film about earth from the space station.
Getting back to the airport we boarded the plane (really full) for another red eye flight, getting back to London at 6.10am. To top off our experience, the mini cab was late, with us waiting 45 minutes outside.
