The majority of today was spent driving south-west back towards California, and as this was to be our longest drive we started early (about 9) on the road and had few stops before arriving on the coast at Carlsbad. Our single larger stop was for lunch, having just passed the border with Arizona (over the Colorado River).
We arrived in Carlsbad about 3:30 and sorted out our bags so they were suitably packed in our rooms before we went to look around the town itself. We first found the beach, and finally a sensible temperature: about 20 degrees C. We thought we may even bee able to see a strange Phenomenon some call rain (what is this unknown force?). We proceeded to look around the main shopping areas before having Fish and Chips at the Beach side Restaurant.
Finally we retired to our beds after a long but relatively uninteresting journey of many miles.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Day 15: Grand Canyon - Phoenix
We started our day by working out our route, and having discovered that the fire was actually a fair way away from our planned route and so decided to take our previously decided route towards Phoenix. Previously we had also discovered that a new drive–through nature park called Bearizona. Here we could see some of those elusive American Animals we had missed before. This turned out to be right on our route, so we decided this would be one of our stops on the way.
After breakfast of pancakes and discovering the results of New Zealand’s latest world Cup game (which finished as we were having breakfast) we left Valle and began to drive south towards Bearizona in Williams (where we had passed on the previous day). It took a surprisingly short time before we arrived in Williams, and we quickly located Bearizona. We entered this park after a quick safety briefing (do not put your head, fingers, arms or toes outside the vehicle) and first found an area of Burro (similar to donkeys, that were used for transport/exploration to the West). We needn’t have worried about not being able to see the animals, as the Burro were in the middle of the road. The next paddock held American Bison, which were slightly further from the road. We soon moved through more high metal gates to an area containing Bighorn sheep, found usually in rocky outcrops and cliffs around the country (supposedly there are a lot of them in Death Valley). White Bison were in the next area, resting from the heat of the day on the grass.
Next we left these smaller areas and drove for a while next to a large paddock (which was to be for the Bison, sheep, elk etc. In the future) before finally arriving outside the gate for the main attraction: The Black Bear enclosure. We were reminded to keep our windows wound up, and if the Bears got too close to the car, move on. Finally we were allowed to go in. It was not long until we saw the first bears: one in the distance moving through the woods, and a closer one on one of the islands, sheltering from the sun. This was amazing to finally see the bears that we had been promised since Yosemite, and we would have been happy even if that was the end of the area. However we soon found about 6 more bears, much closer to us. In fact, some of the bears crossed the road ahead of us, practically touching the cars, while another had a bath in the Drinking water. We went around the roundabouts a couple more times, seeing more bears very close before eventually leaving their environment. But the [ark had not ended yet, and after parking the car we were allowed to get out and walk to the enclosures for the Bear and Wolf Cubs. Most of these animals were wisely sleeping, but the second Bear Cub spent the entire time running crazily up and down the front of the enclosure (apparently this twin was very different to her sister, the trouble maker of the pair).
Eventually of course we had to leave Bearizona to continue our road trip south.
Our next stop was Montezuma’s well, slightly further down the Interstate. This old Native American settlement was on the side of an old spring and sinkhole. Here (like at Montezuma’s Castle that we would reach later) the Sinagua people lived and hunted/gathered for many years before mysteriously disappearing from both sites. Old Hopi Indian legend suggests they joined them at this time, but a reason has not been discovered.
It was again altogether too hot at the Well over 106 degrees Fahrenheit (approx 41 degrees C) and so we didn’t feel much need to stay for long. Despite warning signs we still didn’t see any Rattle snakes, these still remain one of the animals we have not been able to see (perhaps thankfully).
Before proceeding to Montezuma’s Castle we discovered it was a quarter to 2 and well past time for lunch, so we stopped at Sonic, apparently America’s first drive-in restaurant. We soon finished this, and the Castle was just down the Interstate a bit more, so we arrived promptly. The Castle turned out to be a settlement built high into the sheer cliff-edge. It was the ultimate defensible position, but they obviously would have needed multiple ladders to access it. The Sinagua (meaning without water in Spanish) heavily relied on the river near the base of the cliff for life. After looking around this amazing area we retreated again to the air-conditioned car (with temperatures still over 40 degrees Celsius) and set off properly to Phoenix and our Accommodation.
We arrived near Phoenix with little trouble, noticing proper classic cacti on the way and watching the temperature slowly rise (reaching about 115 degrees Fahrenheit. However, as we arrived in Phoenix, our Sat-Nav took us in completely the wrong direction (we wanted East MacDowwel road, not West!). We soon remedied this however and found our motel: The 3 Palms motel. The temperature was still mid-forties Celsius so we quickly checked in before jumping in the pool and staying in for over an hour. When we finally got out to get changed for dinner, and surveyed our room to more of an extent. Even though it was our Cheapest Accommodation (cheaper than even Vegas, where they make it cheap to persuade you to gamble) yet thanks partly to our complimentary upgrade to a suite, we had two bathrooms, two TVs, a fully stocked kitchen, huge bathroom and lounge.
For dinner we had Egyptian food, under the false pretence that the meals would be smaller, but after we saw the salads we realised our mistake. Oh well, it was very good food. We certainly didn’t have room for pudding.
Finally after another very interesting day that was entirely too hot (but apparently normal for Phoenix) we settled in for the night.
After breakfast of pancakes and discovering the results of New Zealand’s latest world Cup game (which finished as we were having breakfast) we left Valle and began to drive south towards Bearizona in Williams (where we had passed on the previous day). It took a surprisingly short time before we arrived in Williams, and we quickly located Bearizona. We entered this park after a quick safety briefing (do not put your head, fingers, arms or toes outside the vehicle) and first found an area of Burro (similar to donkeys, that were used for transport/exploration to the West). We needn’t have worried about not being able to see the animals, as the Burro were in the middle of the road. The next paddock held American Bison, which were slightly further from the road. We soon moved through more high metal gates to an area containing Bighorn sheep, found usually in rocky outcrops and cliffs around the country (supposedly there are a lot of them in Death Valley). White Bison were in the next area, resting from the heat of the day on the grass.
Next we left these smaller areas and drove for a while next to a large paddock (which was to be for the Bison, sheep, elk etc. In the future) before finally arriving outside the gate for the main attraction: The Black Bear enclosure. We were reminded to keep our windows wound up, and if the Bears got too close to the car, move on. Finally we were allowed to go in. It was not long until we saw the first bears: one in the distance moving through the woods, and a closer one on one of the islands, sheltering from the sun. This was amazing to finally see the bears that we had been promised since Yosemite, and we would have been happy even if that was the end of the area. However we soon found about 6 more bears, much closer to us. In fact, some of the bears crossed the road ahead of us, practically touching the cars, while another had a bath in the Drinking water. We went around the roundabouts a couple more times, seeing more bears very close before eventually leaving their environment. But the [ark had not ended yet, and after parking the car we were allowed to get out and walk to the enclosures for the Bear and Wolf Cubs. Most of these animals were wisely sleeping, but the second Bear Cub spent the entire time running crazily up and down the front of the enclosure (apparently this twin was very different to her sister, the trouble maker of the pair).
Eventually of course we had to leave Bearizona to continue our road trip south.
Our next stop was Montezuma’s well, slightly further down the Interstate. This old Native American settlement was on the side of an old spring and sinkhole. Here (like at Montezuma’s Castle that we would reach later) the Sinagua people lived and hunted/gathered for many years before mysteriously disappearing from both sites. Old Hopi Indian legend suggests they joined them at this time, but a reason has not been discovered.
It was again altogether too hot at the Well over 106 degrees Fahrenheit (approx 41 degrees C) and so we didn’t feel much need to stay for long. Despite warning signs we still didn’t see any Rattle snakes, these still remain one of the animals we have not been able to see (perhaps thankfully).
Before proceeding to Montezuma’s Castle we discovered it was a quarter to 2 and well past time for lunch, so we stopped at Sonic, apparently America’s first drive-in restaurant. We soon finished this, and the Castle was just down the Interstate a bit more, so we arrived promptly. The Castle turned out to be a settlement built high into the sheer cliff-edge. It was the ultimate defensible position, but they obviously would have needed multiple ladders to access it. The Sinagua (meaning without water in Spanish) heavily relied on the river near the base of the cliff for life. After looking around this amazing area we retreated again to the air-conditioned car (with temperatures still over 40 degrees Celsius) and set off properly to Phoenix and our Accommodation.
We arrived near Phoenix with little trouble, noticing proper classic cacti on the way and watching the temperature slowly rise (reaching about 115 degrees Fahrenheit. However, as we arrived in Phoenix, our Sat-Nav took us in completely the wrong direction (we wanted East MacDowwel road, not West!). We soon remedied this however and found our motel: The 3 Palms motel. The temperature was still mid-forties Celsius so we quickly checked in before jumping in the pool and staying in for over an hour. When we finally got out to get changed for dinner, and surveyed our room to more of an extent. Even though it was our Cheapest Accommodation (cheaper than even Vegas, where they make it cheap to persuade you to gamble) yet thanks partly to our complimentary upgrade to a suite, we had two bathrooms, two TVs, a fully stocked kitchen, huge bathroom and lounge.
For dinner we had Egyptian food, under the false pretence that the meals would be smaller, but after we saw the salads we realised our mistake. Oh well, it was very good food. We certainly didn’t have room for pudding.
Finally after another very interesting day that was entirely too hot (but apparently normal for Phoenix) we settled in for the night.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Day 14: Las Vegas - The Grand Canyon
We started our day late and began by visiting the Starbucks for breakfast, before hopping in the car to see the rest of the Strip.
We had a very long drive ahead of us again, and began by moving East towards the border with Arizona. We got stuck in a huge traffic jam as we drove to the Hoover Dam, which acts as the border to Arizona and also the Beginning of the Grand Canyon itself. Passing a seemingly very ineffective security check before the bridge (evidently they didn't think we looked like terrorists), we finally were allowed to cross it and thereby enter Arizona. After a quick look back at the dam itself we moved on through the green desert, hearing news of a huge forest fire north of Flagstaff (a place we intended to pass through the following day). As we moved closer to the Grand Canyon we could actually see some of the plumes of smoke coming from the fire itself.
Finally after a long drive we arrived in Valle, a settlement about 30 miles from the Grand Canyon (but with space available in the motels, unlike the closer ones). We quickly checked in before driving down the road towards the Canyon. About 20 miles in we came to the National Geographic Grand Canyon Information center, where the Imax movie of the Canyon was playing. We checked the viewing times, and discovering that they went on quite late (latest 8:30pm) we drove on finally to reach the Canyon.
Strangely there was no-one at the gate to greet us (i.e. take our park fee) so we, like a few others behind us got through for free. We parked the car and visited the visitor centre here for a map before getting round the roadworks to the famed Rim Walk.
Immediately as we reached this path we were astounded by the view hiding behind the trees at our side of the Canyon (again this was a surprise for me: I did not expect there to be trees here at all). We walked in awe down the path by the rim of the Grand Canyon, stopping frequently to take pictures of the countless different views. Yet you would need more than a normal camera to capture the amazing views of this Canyon: about 270 degrees for a start. There is nothing like seeing the Grand Canyon at its very edge.
We eventually reached one of the main viewing areas, to gain a truly unobstructed view both ways down the Canyon. We could just see the Colorado River that carved this wonder in the very depths. You can certainly see why this is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World
We stayed looking at the Canyon for quite a while before getting hungry and, bidding a couple of Rock Squirrels goodbye, left to the National Geographic Information Center down the road.
Just as we almost reached it we saw something else amazing: Two wild Elk on the side of the road. Many other vehicles had paused to observe these as well.
We soon discovered that we didn't have quite as much time as we had thought, so grabbed a few drinks and popcorn before seating ourselves for the 7:30 showing of the Imax movie of the Grand Canyon.
This 34 minute presentation culminated of stunning images on the huge screen, telling the story of the Grand Canyon's history, exploration and inhabitants.
Finally (after a compulsory look round the Gift-Shop of course) we had dinner and left the building. We discovered the male Elk was still outside near the Carpark, and tried to take a few pictures, but the darkness had fallen and our Camera flashes didn't quite work as they should.
Eventually we retired to our Accommodation down the road at Valle, after an incredible day of Contrasts, heat and wonder.
We had a very long drive ahead of us again, and began by moving East towards the border with Arizona. We got stuck in a huge traffic jam as we drove to the Hoover Dam, which acts as the border to Arizona and also the Beginning of the Grand Canyon itself. Passing a seemingly very ineffective security check before the bridge (evidently they didn't think we looked like terrorists), we finally were allowed to cross it and thereby enter Arizona. After a quick look back at the dam itself we moved on through the green desert, hearing news of a huge forest fire north of Flagstaff (a place we intended to pass through the following day). As we moved closer to the Grand Canyon we could actually see some of the plumes of smoke coming from the fire itself.
Finally after a long drive we arrived in Valle, a settlement about 30 miles from the Grand Canyon (but with space available in the motels, unlike the closer ones). We quickly checked in before driving down the road towards the Canyon. About 20 miles in we came to the National Geographic Grand Canyon Information center, where the Imax movie of the Canyon was playing. We checked the viewing times, and discovering that they went on quite late (latest 8:30pm) we drove on finally to reach the Canyon.
Strangely there was no-one at the gate to greet us (i.e. take our park fee) so we, like a few others behind us got through for free. We parked the car and visited the visitor centre here for a map before getting round the roadworks to the famed Rim Walk.
Immediately as we reached this path we were astounded by the view hiding behind the trees at our side of the Canyon (again this was a surprise for me: I did not expect there to be trees here at all). We walked in awe down the path by the rim of the Grand Canyon, stopping frequently to take pictures of the countless different views. Yet you would need more than a normal camera to capture the amazing views of this Canyon: about 270 degrees for a start. There is nothing like seeing the Grand Canyon at its very edge.
We eventually reached one of the main viewing areas, to gain a truly unobstructed view both ways down the Canyon. We could just see the Colorado River that carved this wonder in the very depths. You can certainly see why this is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World
We stayed looking at the Canyon for quite a while before getting hungry and, bidding a couple of Rock Squirrels goodbye, left to the National Geographic Information Center down the road.
Just as we almost reached it we saw something else amazing: Two wild Elk on the side of the road. Many other vehicles had paused to observe these as well.
We soon discovered that we didn't have quite as much time as we had thought, so grabbed a few drinks and popcorn before seating ourselves for the 7:30 showing of the Imax movie of the Grand Canyon.
This 34 minute presentation culminated of stunning images on the huge screen, telling the story of the Grand Canyon's history, exploration and inhabitants.
Finally (after a compulsory look round the Gift-Shop of course) we had dinner and left the building. We discovered the male Elk was still outside near the Carpark, and tried to take a few pictures, but the darkness had fallen and our Camera flashes didn't quite work as they should.
Eventually we retired to our Accommodation down the road at Valle, after an incredible day of Contrasts, heat and wonder.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Day 13 Pictures
The Vegas Strip at night
Believe it or not, this is our Hotel!
Funny, I thought it was a bit dry for Sea Level...
The striking Panamint Valley
Into the desert...
Day 13: Bishop - Death Valley - Las Vegas
We began our day in the town of Bishop, and after a nice (and complimentary) breakfast we set off towards the desert.
Our last stop before we reached the American Desert however was Lone Pine, a small settlement with many buildings based on the time of the American Gold rushes. This supplied us with a few more American souvenirs before we set out into the huge deserts of Eastern California.
The desert soon became apparent, and the high temperature soon followed. By the time of our first stop: a dried up salt lake (apparently California had stolen the water from the lake, leaving just the plain), the temperature had climbed to over 90 degrees Fahrenheit (over 32 degrees Celsius). The atmosphere was just as I had imagined: really still and silent but for the crunch of our feet walking on the gravel. We were careful to look out for wildlife, but all we saw was a red ant, no rattlesnakes.
Further down the road we stopped for more photographs of the stunningly still desert, with rocky mountains littering the otherwise flat plains. The desert was surprisingly green, not as I had imagined. There were multiple small shrubs, including some small cacti and Joshua Trees, only found in these local deserts.
Soon later we found the first and smaller of the two Valleys we were going through today: The Panamint valley. In this valley we dropped from about 7000 feet down to 1000 feet, before rising afterwards back up to over 4000 feet. The winding road had amazing views down the rugged valley, and we stopped frequently for photos. We stopped at the bottom of this Valley and discovered the temperature to be 104 degrees Fahrenheit: finally we had reached our benchmark of 40 degrees Celsius, the warmest temperature I have ever experienced (that I remember anyway: Bangkok may have be warmer but I was only about 1 year old).
After we climbed up back to over 4000 feet, we dropped into the famous Death Valley. This was a slightly less harsh gradient, and the harsh rocky cliffs were further away, but the temperature remained above 100 degrees. As we reached the bottom plain of the valley (elevation below sea level) we finally found a proper desert: the golden sand dunes, showing no life, as I had imagined the desert to be. Observing the necessary safety signs that plastered the carpark (Heat Kills) we moved into this amazing yet incredibly hot desert for a look, but quickly retreated into the air-conditioned car.
Our next stop was an old Borax mine before we stopped at the visitor centre for lunch. We were greeted by a very enthusiastic Rang (who had even been in the Waitomo caves) who was very happy to meet New Zealanders. After a slideshow and finally lunch we set off b ck into the heat, beginning to wish we had stayed in the cool Yosemite National Park.
Our last stop in the heat of the Valley was the Badlands: amazing carved rock hills, showing layer upon layer of rock formations.
Finally we arrived in the city which held our Accommodation: Las Vegas. Coming into the city it seemed just normal, until we reached the Las Vegas Boulevard. Quickly the buildings shot up, and we were on the Las Vegas Strip.
We passed the gigantic first two hotels/casinos (one of which was the huge Egyptian themed Luxor, with a huge pyramid) before reaching our accommodation: Excalibur. We got lost in the huge expanse of car park and, awed by the size, walked into the Castle. Thankfully (and unsurprisingly) it was very well air conditioned. We passed an awful lot of sad people throwing their money away on the slots as we worked our way to the Check-in. The lights and sounds were unbelievable.
We quickly put all our stuff upstairs (floor 22) and sped downstairs to the pool ( it was due to close in half an hour). We needn’t have bothered: it was an overfull pool no deeper than 3 feet at any7 point (evidently to keep the children busy as their parents gambled).
Soon we went back to get changed and find dinner. We had all sorts of things to choose from, and we eventually settled on the all you can eat buffet, which needless to say was HUGE, but nice!
After dinner we decided to have a look around the huge casinos/hotels down the strip. There was no end to the ways you could waste your money, but the buildings were amazing. We looked all throughout our place, The Luxor, New York New York (which included mock ups of famous buildings and a roller coaster, and the MGM hotel (which was the biggest by far). The lights and sounds of Vegas were even more interesting at night.
We saved money by not participating in any gambling and went to bed, after a very long but rewarding day of firsts.
Our last stop before we reached the American Desert however was Lone Pine, a small settlement with many buildings based on the time of the American Gold rushes. This supplied us with a few more American souvenirs before we set out into the huge deserts of Eastern California.
The desert soon became apparent, and the high temperature soon followed. By the time of our first stop: a dried up salt lake (apparently California had stolen the water from the lake, leaving just the plain), the temperature had climbed to over 90 degrees Fahrenheit (over 32 degrees Celsius). The atmosphere was just as I had imagined: really still and silent but for the crunch of our feet walking on the gravel. We were careful to look out for wildlife, but all we saw was a red ant, no rattlesnakes.
Further down the road we stopped for more photographs of the stunningly still desert, with rocky mountains littering the otherwise flat plains. The desert was surprisingly green, not as I had imagined. There were multiple small shrubs, including some small cacti and Joshua Trees, only found in these local deserts.
Soon later we found the first and smaller of the two Valleys we were going through today: The Panamint valley. In this valley we dropped from about 7000 feet down to 1000 feet, before rising afterwards back up to over 4000 feet. The winding road had amazing views down the rugged valley, and we stopped frequently for photos. We stopped at the bottom of this Valley and discovered the temperature to be 104 degrees Fahrenheit: finally we had reached our benchmark of 40 degrees Celsius, the warmest temperature I have ever experienced (that I remember anyway: Bangkok may have be warmer but I was only about 1 year old).
After we climbed up back to over 4000 feet, we dropped into the famous Death Valley. This was a slightly less harsh gradient, and the harsh rocky cliffs were further away, but the temperature remained above 100 degrees. As we reached the bottom plain of the valley (elevation below sea level) we finally found a proper desert: the golden sand dunes, showing no life, as I had imagined the desert to be. Observing the necessary safety signs that plastered the carpark (Heat Kills) we moved into this amazing yet incredibly hot desert for a look, but quickly retreated into the air-conditioned car.
Our next stop was an old Borax mine before we stopped at the visitor centre for lunch. We were greeted by a very enthusiastic Rang (who had even been in the Waitomo caves) who was very happy to meet New Zealanders. After a slideshow and finally lunch we set off b ck into the heat, beginning to wish we had stayed in the cool Yosemite National Park.
Our last stop in the heat of the Valley was the Badlands: amazing carved rock hills, showing layer upon layer of rock formations.
Finally we arrived in the city which held our Accommodation: Las Vegas. Coming into the city it seemed just normal, until we reached the Las Vegas Boulevard. Quickly the buildings shot up, and we were on the Las Vegas Strip.
We passed the gigantic first two hotels/casinos (one of which was the huge Egyptian themed Luxor, with a huge pyramid) before reaching our accommodation: Excalibur. We got lost in the huge expanse of car park and, awed by the size, walked into the Castle. Thankfully (and unsurprisingly) it was very well air conditioned. We passed an awful lot of sad people throwing their money away on the slots as we worked our way to the Check-in. The lights and sounds were unbelievable.
We quickly put all our stuff upstairs (floor 22) and sped downstairs to the pool ( it was due to close in half an hour). We needn’t have bothered: it was an overfull pool no deeper than 3 feet at any7 point (evidently to keep the children busy as their parents gambled).
Soon we went back to get changed and find dinner. We had all sorts of things to choose from, and we eventually settled on the all you can eat buffet, which needless to say was HUGE, but nice!
After dinner we decided to have a look around the huge casinos/hotels down the strip. There was no end to the ways you could waste your money, but the buildings were amazing. We looked all throughout our place, The Luxor, New York New York (which included mock ups of famous buildings and a roller coaster, and the MGM hotel (which was the biggest by far). The lights and sounds of Vegas were even more interesting at night.
We saved money by not participating in any gambling and went to bed, after a very long but rewarding day of firsts.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Day 12: Yosemite Pictures
This proves it was in fact snowing!
Look! A mountain Chipmunk!
Another view of Half Dome
Some Rocks (obviously)
Bridal Veil Falls
Day 12: Sonora - Yosemite - Bishop
Well after an altogether too short sleep we got up for the longest day of the year: The Summer Solstice in America. We soon went downstairs for our breakfast of toast, cakes, juice and fruit.
Following this we quickly packed up and where on the road about 8:30am (local time of course).
We started today backtracking a little before setting off down the road to Yosemite National Park. As we got closer the park the road quickly became a lot steeper and through a picturesque winding road we reached heights above 3000 feet (approx 1km).
When we finally reached the park gate we were surrounded by forest, and as we passed the booths here we saw many signs warning us of Black Bears and other wildlife.
However the route to the first view (or Vista Point) revealed only one deer in the surrounding landscape. The first view more than made up for this however, as we caught our first view of the breathtaking Half Dome (a gigantic rock in the Yosemite valley, originally carved out in the Ice ages by huge glaciers). Our further driving for the next while showed similar amazing views of the gigantic rocks of the park, and waterfalls cascading down the valley.
Our next stop was at the unbelievable Bridalveil falls, a huge waterfall spurting over the top of the gigantic cliffs, with a surrounding 'veil' of mist or water vapour more slowly descending down the cliff. After taking pictures of this from a distance we walked into the forest to view the falls themselves, and the water vapour soaked us, and caused a stream of water to flow down the path. A man we spoke to later in the car park said this was the best he had ever seen the falls.
We hopped back in the car and drove to the 'Curry Village', another one of Yosemite's camping shops/eateries, with many photo stops in between. The landscape was amazing! There was too much to take in at once and I'm sure I could spend a week just looking at all the natural wonders.
After picking up sandwiches from the rather overpriced shop we walked 1.4 miles up the road to Mirror Lake, a very picturesque lake between imposing and wonderful rock faces in the park.
We consumed our lunch here and admired the 'Beware of Mountain Lions' sign before sadly having to move on back to the car to carry on. On the way down we also saw 4 squirrels, one of which shot up a tree right beside us. Evidently wild ones are much more agile than the overfed park ones!
We moved on up the valley now, towards the Tioga Pass, which sits at almost 10,000 feet above sea level (almost the height of Mount Cook). As we moved up the valley, we noticed something completely unexpected: snow lining the woods beside the road, some looking over a metre thick. We obviously had to stop the car at one such place and throw snowballs at each other. We certainly did not expect snow on the first day of Summer!
We next stopped at the beautiful Tenayah lake, about 7000 feet above sea level. Here we sat on the snow and also saw 5 Blue Jays, birds quite rarely seen elsewhere.
Soon after this we stopped at Tuolumne Meadows, which were flooded yet absolutely Beautiful, and of course in some places covered in snow.
We had just one more picture stop before the pass, to admire the snow capped mountains, and here we once again got something extra seeing our first ever Chipmunk. Sadly these small animals (and squirrels) remained the only mammals we saw in the park, as no badgers, skunks, bears, foxes, beavers or mountain lions showed up (all of which are apparently seen in Yosemite).
Just before we reached the pass: the highest place we were going something even more strange happened: it actually began snowing on us! We got snowed on on the first day of summer!
We didn't stay at our height of 10,000 feet for long though as it was cold, and so we quickly drove down to the plains on the other side of the Yosemite park mountains.
We discovered one more attraction to see before we went to today's final destination of Bishop township, and those were the Tufa tower formations at Mono Lake. These formations were originally made by air bubbling up beneath the overly salty Mono Lake (about 2.5 times as salty as seawater!) and forming crystalline structures. Now the lake is lower we can see easily these interesting formations. Then we bid these Tufas goodbye (plus the hundreds of gulls near them) and drove down finally to Bishop. We found our motel quickly and settled in, having a nice dinner and then having a rater more chilly after-dinner swim.
We certainly made the most of this longest day of the year, and I believe it has been the best day we have had in America (so far!), yes, even better than Disneyland!
Following this we quickly packed up and where on the road about 8:30am (local time of course).
We started today backtracking a little before setting off down the road to Yosemite National Park. As we got closer the park the road quickly became a lot steeper and through a picturesque winding road we reached heights above 3000 feet (approx 1km).
When we finally reached the park gate we were surrounded by forest, and as we passed the booths here we saw many signs warning us of Black Bears and other wildlife.
However the route to the first view (or Vista Point) revealed only one deer in the surrounding landscape. The first view more than made up for this however, as we caught our first view of the breathtaking Half Dome (a gigantic rock in the Yosemite valley, originally carved out in the Ice ages by huge glaciers). Our further driving for the next while showed similar amazing views of the gigantic rocks of the park, and waterfalls cascading down the valley.
Our next stop was at the unbelievable Bridalveil falls, a huge waterfall spurting over the top of the gigantic cliffs, with a surrounding 'veil' of mist or water vapour more slowly descending down the cliff. After taking pictures of this from a distance we walked into the forest to view the falls themselves, and the water vapour soaked us, and caused a stream of water to flow down the path. A man we spoke to later in the car park said this was the best he had ever seen the falls.
We hopped back in the car and drove to the 'Curry Village', another one of Yosemite's camping shops/eateries, with many photo stops in between. The landscape was amazing! There was too much to take in at once and I'm sure I could spend a week just looking at all the natural wonders.
After picking up sandwiches from the rather overpriced shop we walked 1.4 miles up the road to Mirror Lake, a very picturesque lake between imposing and wonderful rock faces in the park.
We consumed our lunch here and admired the 'Beware of Mountain Lions' sign before sadly having to move on back to the car to carry on. On the way down we also saw 4 squirrels, one of which shot up a tree right beside us. Evidently wild ones are much more agile than the overfed park ones!
We moved on up the valley now, towards the Tioga Pass, which sits at almost 10,000 feet above sea level (almost the height of Mount Cook). As we moved up the valley, we noticed something completely unexpected: snow lining the woods beside the road, some looking over a metre thick. We obviously had to stop the car at one such place and throw snowballs at each other. We certainly did not expect snow on the first day of Summer!
We next stopped at the beautiful Tenayah lake, about 7000 feet above sea level. Here we sat on the snow and also saw 5 Blue Jays, birds quite rarely seen elsewhere.
Soon after this we stopped at Tuolumne Meadows, which were flooded yet absolutely Beautiful, and of course in some places covered in snow.
We had just one more picture stop before the pass, to admire the snow capped mountains, and here we once again got something extra seeing our first ever Chipmunk. Sadly these small animals (and squirrels) remained the only mammals we saw in the park, as no badgers, skunks, bears, foxes, beavers or mountain lions showed up (all of which are apparently seen in Yosemite).
Just before we reached the pass: the highest place we were going something even more strange happened: it actually began snowing on us! We got snowed on on the first day of summer!
We didn't stay at our height of 10,000 feet for long though as it was cold, and so we quickly drove down to the plains on the other side of the Yosemite park mountains.
We discovered one more attraction to see before we went to today's final destination of Bishop township, and those were the Tufa tower formations at Mono Lake. These formations were originally made by air bubbling up beneath the overly salty Mono Lake (about 2.5 times as salty as seawater!) and forming crystalline structures. Now the lake is lower we can see easily these interesting formations. Then we bid these Tufas goodbye (plus the hundreds of gulls near them) and drove down finally to Bishop. We found our motel quickly and settled in, having a nice dinner and then having a rater more chilly after-dinner swim.
We certainly made the most of this longest day of the year, and I believe it has been the best day we have had in America (so far!), yes, even better than Disneyland!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Day 11: San Francisco to Sonora
We had to bid San Francisco goodbye today_ so soon too :-( _ but we could still make the use of the morning.
We woke up and realised that New Zealand were in fact playing Italy in the world cup right at that moment so quickly found a live sports channel. This was at a decent time of about 8 am! We watched thew full second half and were delighted at seeing New Zealand's historic best soccer achievement to date: a tie with the previous World Champions!
After this was finished we went again downstairs to the breakfast bar and had a very nice breakfast again. It was also Fathers day here in America, but we told dad he couldn't have two in a year!
After this we packed our bags again and set off towards the Golden Gate bridge.
Before reaching this however we made a stop at Golden Gate park for a walk and look around, which was great (and involved a waterfall, more turtles, and another squirrel).
Finally noticing the time (11:30AM) we set off on our trip, first towards the Golden Gate bridge.
This was as expected spectacular to cross with great views back towards the city. Then we began our road trip inland, almost directly East.
A while of driving followed, through primarily flat plains at first, getting steadily much warmer in the car. By the time we arrived in a smell town on the way for lunch for lunch (just Subway today) we were very hot, and it wasn't much better outside the car either. We ad certainly left the cold San Francisco behind.
After lunch the terrain became rather more hilly and we could even see snow on some high mountains in the distance, but we wouldn't be very near these today.
Passing through Oakdale and carrying on to Jamestown we stopped to look at an old railway (actually used in heaps of Hollywood movies including Back to the Future III). Jamestown itself was a Gold mining settlement from a similar time to New Zealand's Gold Rush.
We found a great Ice cream store and antique stores before moving on to our final destination: Sonora.
Arriving we were very hot and happily the hotel (the oldest Historical one in the town) had a swimming pool which we made good use of. we eventually picked ourselves out from the pool and went across the road from this Gunn House Hotel for a great but overly huge dinner at the Steakhouse.
To walk our dinner off a bit we took a look round the main street and dad was very pleased to see a great many Alfa Romeos evidently on a tour. After finding a few supplies for the following day, we headed back to the Hotel, where we turned in for the night.
We woke up and realised that New Zealand were in fact playing Italy in the world cup right at that moment so quickly found a live sports channel. This was at a decent time of about 8 am! We watched thew full second half and were delighted at seeing New Zealand's historic best soccer achievement to date: a tie with the previous World Champions!
After this was finished we went again downstairs to the breakfast bar and had a very nice breakfast again. It was also Fathers day here in America, but we told dad he couldn't have two in a year!
After this we packed our bags again and set off towards the Golden Gate bridge.
Before reaching this however we made a stop at Golden Gate park for a walk and look around, which was great (and involved a waterfall, more turtles, and another squirrel).
Finally noticing the time (11:30AM) we set off on our trip, first towards the Golden Gate bridge.
This was as expected spectacular to cross with great views back towards the city. Then we began our road trip inland, almost directly East.
A while of driving followed, through primarily flat plains at first, getting steadily much warmer in the car. By the time we arrived in a smell town on the way for lunch for lunch (just Subway today) we were very hot, and it wasn't much better outside the car either. We ad certainly left the cold San Francisco behind.
After lunch the terrain became rather more hilly and we could even see snow on some high mountains in the distance, but we wouldn't be very near these today.
Passing through Oakdale and carrying on to Jamestown we stopped to look at an old railway (actually used in heaps of Hollywood movies including Back to the Future III). Jamestown itself was a Gold mining settlement from a similar time to New Zealand's Gold Rush.
We found a great Ice cream store and antique stores before moving on to our final destination: Sonora.
Arriving we were very hot and happily the hotel (the oldest Historical one in the town) had a swimming pool which we made good use of. we eventually picked ourselves out from the pool and went across the road from this Gunn House Hotel for a great but overly huge dinner at the Steakhouse.
To walk our dinner off a bit we took a look round the main street and dad was very pleased to see a great many Alfa Romeos evidently on a tour. After finding a few supplies for the following day, we headed back to the Hotel, where we turned in for the night.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Day 10: The cold of San Francisco
As I forgot to mention in my blog at first, San Francisco was incredibly cold through the whole time we were there due to the freezing sea breeze from the harbour. In fact apparently it is like this all winter, as as we were informed on the cruise, Mark Twain once commented that the coldest winter he had ever spent in California was a summer in San Francisco.
Strangely enough we found data from New Zealand later for the day and it was in fact warmer in NZ! Oh well, at least it's not raining!
Strangely enough we found data from New Zealand later for the day and it was in fact warmer in NZ! Oh well, at least it's not raining!
Day 10: San Francisco
Well after the people next store denied us of most of our sleep we got up and had a very good breakfast of Pancakes and Waffles at the classic American Breakfast Diner. Feeling very well fed we set off first to see the interesting Victorian buildings down the street then navigate the incredibly steep hills down to the waterfront of San Francisco.
Finding this we began to walk along the waterside paths towards the main piers, to book a time for a trip to Alcatraz later in the day.
The waterfront was bustling and even before hitting the main pier: pier 39 we found a Chocolate shop (Ghiradelli) which had started in 1852 and judging by their free samples at the door were still brilliant at making Chocolate. Needless to say we bought a large bag of assorted Chocolates!
Unfortunately, upon arriving at the pier (number 35) that took tours to Alcatraz we discovered that the tours were effectively sold out until Monday, and we were due to leave on Sunday Morning! Evidently we should have booked earlier.
This was very disappointing (but we had to leave something to do when we come back in later life) so we consoled ourselves by first visiting the Bay Aquarium, which was very good. It included such animals as rays, leopard sharks and luminescent Jellyfish, all allegedly found in the harbour.
Soon after exiting we had another huge American lunch of Sandwiches and then walked down disappointed intending to take the Cable Cars up to the back of San Francisco for a look around after visiting a large museum of old coin operated games from years ago.
On the way however we discovered another cruise we could take instead of one to Alcatraz and after some discussion took the opportunity. This cruise would take us beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, Near Angel Island and around Alcatraz with a few stories.
This tour however was not until 3 so we went to the mentioned museum and had a further look around the Piers.
When we finally got aboard the cruise in addition to seeing the things I mentioned, we also saw many sea lions, a couple of dolphins, more Pelicans and San Francisco's other large bridge, the Bay bridge. The views were wonderful and the sea considerably less choppy than we had feared. Feeling much better having done our tour of San Francisco's harbour we now set off to the Cable Car, where we proceeded to wait for about one and a half hours (it was rather an inefficient transport system evidently (at least at our end).
But we were very glad we had done it once the ride started! Hanging off the outside of the Cable Car through San Francisco's steep streets was truly fantastic, and we arrived at the end of the line having had great fun.
Following this we looked round for a place for dinner, and in the end found our way back to Chinatown for a very nice dinner at a local Chinese Restaurant.
Finally we again made our way back to the motel, picking a slightly better way this time and arrived much earlier than the previous night.
It truly was a full and (mostly) efficient day seeing a great amount of the city in the one day we had!
Finding this we began to walk along the waterside paths towards the main piers, to book a time for a trip to Alcatraz later in the day.
The waterfront was bustling and even before hitting the main pier: pier 39 we found a Chocolate shop (Ghiradelli) which had started in 1852 and judging by their free samples at the door were still brilliant at making Chocolate. Needless to say we bought a large bag of assorted Chocolates!
Unfortunately, upon arriving at the pier (number 35) that took tours to Alcatraz we discovered that the tours were effectively sold out until Monday, and we were due to leave on Sunday Morning! Evidently we should have booked earlier.
This was very disappointing (but we had to leave something to do when we come back in later life) so we consoled ourselves by first visiting the Bay Aquarium, which was very good. It included such animals as rays, leopard sharks and luminescent Jellyfish, all allegedly found in the harbour.
Soon after exiting we had another huge American lunch of Sandwiches and then walked down disappointed intending to take the Cable Cars up to the back of San Francisco for a look around after visiting a large museum of old coin operated games from years ago.
On the way however we discovered another cruise we could take instead of one to Alcatraz and after some discussion took the opportunity. This cruise would take us beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, Near Angel Island and around Alcatraz with a few stories.
This tour however was not until 3 so we went to the mentioned museum and had a further look around the Piers.
When we finally got aboard the cruise in addition to seeing the things I mentioned, we also saw many sea lions, a couple of dolphins, more Pelicans and San Francisco's other large bridge, the Bay bridge. The views were wonderful and the sea considerably less choppy than we had feared. Feeling much better having done our tour of San Francisco's harbour we now set off to the Cable Car, where we proceeded to wait for about one and a half hours (it was rather an inefficient transport system evidently (at least at our end).
But we were very glad we had done it once the ride started! Hanging off the outside of the Cable Car through San Francisco's steep streets was truly fantastic, and we arrived at the end of the line having had great fun.
Following this we looked round for a place for dinner, and in the end found our way back to Chinatown for a very nice dinner at a local Chinese Restaurant.
Finally we again made our way back to the motel, picking a slightly better way this time and arrived much earlier than the previous night.
It truly was a full and (mostly) efficient day seeing a great amount of the city in the one day we had!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Day 9: Cont...
Oh yes and I forgot to mention, on the way to San Francisco we also passed through Carmel, near which (at Pebble Beach) Tiger Woods happened to be playing in the U.S. Open. Unfortunately we had no time to go and look, but it was a bizarre coincidence!
Day 9: The Road to San Francisco
Well we left back onto the coastal road to San Francisco after a really rather uninspiring breakfast (which to be fair was included in the cheap overnight price).
We did not get far before our first stop, at the local Elephant Seal viewing area. Aside from a multitude of these large animals there were a huge amount of over fed squirrels, quite a few ravens, pelicans and various other birds similar to yesterday's. And to top it all off, out in the Pacific Ocean there were whales spouting!
A long drive followed until we stopped for lunch at a very nice roadside Cafe: The Coast Gallery.
Following this we once again drove further up the rugged but very picturesque coast for a long period of time.
Further up we spotted a National park that claimed to have Sea-Otters, but unfortunately a walk to the mentioned beach proved to only hold divers and kelp, so we hopped back on the road again.
Finally, we could almost see San Francisco, but unfortunately we also found rush hour and so spent an awfully long time stuck in that (luckily there were still interesting views out the windows - Including strawberry pickers - and plenty of good books to read in the car.
Upon finally arriving in the city itself we became utterly perplexed with the one way streets of the city center and went round the block a few times before finding our motel. The motel manager suggested we just forget about driving while we were here, and we found that advice sensible.
Finding ourselves with a little spare time on our hands, we set off downtown for dinner and of course another famous bookshop: City Lights Bookshop, where strangely enough we bought some more books! For dinner we found a terrific Vietnamese Restaurant, better priced than the American equivalent and considerably nicer.
After dinner we walked through the world famous China Town of San Francisco, finding all manner of interesting shops.
By the time we had found our way to the end of this area however night had fallen and so we spent a little time lost walking back to the motel in the dark.
It was great to get some activities out of the way though as it appears our only full day in San Francisco will be busy: tomorrow.
We did not get far before our first stop, at the local Elephant Seal viewing area. Aside from a multitude of these large animals there were a huge amount of over fed squirrels, quite a few ravens, pelicans and various other birds similar to yesterday's. And to top it all off, out in the Pacific Ocean there were whales spouting!
A long drive followed until we stopped for lunch at a very nice roadside Cafe: The Coast Gallery.
Following this we once again drove further up the rugged but very picturesque coast for a long period of time.
Further up we spotted a National park that claimed to have Sea-Otters, but unfortunately a walk to the mentioned beach proved to only hold divers and kelp, so we hopped back on the road again.
Finally, we could almost see San Francisco, but unfortunately we also found rush hour and so spent an awfully long time stuck in that (luckily there were still interesting views out the windows - Including strawberry pickers - and plenty of good books to read in the car.
Upon finally arriving in the city itself we became utterly perplexed with the one way streets of the city center and went round the block a few times before finding our motel. The motel manager suggested we just forget about driving while we were here, and we found that advice sensible.
Finding ourselves with a little spare time on our hands, we set off downtown for dinner and of course another famous bookshop: City Lights Bookshop, where strangely enough we bought some more books! For dinner we found a terrific Vietnamese Restaurant, better priced than the American equivalent and considerably nicer.
After dinner we walked through the world famous China Town of San Francisco, finding all manner of interesting shops.
By the time we had found our way to the end of this area however night had fallen and so we spent a little time lost walking back to the motel in the dark.
It was great to get some activities out of the way though as it appears our only full day in San Francisco will be busy: tomorrow.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Day 8: Pasadena - San Simion
Well we finally bid Pasadena goodbye today, and began our American road trip.
We started out towards the coast and then took the main highway north. Our drive was primarily on a freeway, but the view outside was actually rather interesting, at times going beside rugged valleys (further inland).
Our drive (including lunch) took about 4 hours but we finally arrived in San Simion, and our motel: Sands by the Sea. We were a bit wary of this name, thinking surely this would not in fact be directly on the beach, but happily it was.
However, the beach as we discovered soon was very cold, winds blowing straight off the Pacific Ocean (if we looked in the right direction the nearest land was New Zealand). However the wildlife made up for the bone chilling wind, with small black birds we could not identify, and large amounts of brilliant Hawks, hunting through the sands. A walk further down the beach revealed also a tree full of crows and spectacular views.
Soon after this we set off towards our main attraction for the day: Hurst Castle.
This castle, located 3 miles up the road from our hotel, lies at the top of a large hill, was created by Randolf William Hurst in the 1920s - 40s was based on the castles of Europe he had witnessed at the age of ten. In its own time it was the home of both Hurst, sometimes his wife, various famous guests and Hurst personal Zoo (which included Zebras, Polar Bears, Lions, Leopards and many more intriguing animals). The house/castle itself had two swimming pools (the inside one paved partially in gold), and over a hundred rooms, as well as many old statues (the earliest from 3000 years ago) and artworks, some specially made for the house.
It was a truly amazing structure made by a rather odd man (the latter was tried to smooth over in a movie afterwards).
By the end of our tour and the movie on the huge screen it was close to dinner, so we picked up a rather lacking microwaveable dinner from the dairy and took this back to the motel.
After this we had a further work on the beach (seeing flying a group of Pelicans, a first for myself), and then had a swim in the indoor pool.
Tomorrow we look forward to getting to San Francisco, as we continue up the coast of California.
We started out towards the coast and then took the main highway north. Our drive was primarily on a freeway, but the view outside was actually rather interesting, at times going beside rugged valleys (further inland).
Our drive (including lunch) took about 4 hours but we finally arrived in San Simion, and our motel: Sands by the Sea. We were a bit wary of this name, thinking surely this would not in fact be directly on the beach, but happily it was.
However, the beach as we discovered soon was very cold, winds blowing straight off the Pacific Ocean (if we looked in the right direction the nearest land was New Zealand). However the wildlife made up for the bone chilling wind, with small black birds we could not identify, and large amounts of brilliant Hawks, hunting through the sands. A walk further down the beach revealed also a tree full of crows and spectacular views.
Soon after this we set off towards our main attraction for the day: Hurst Castle.
This castle, located 3 miles up the road from our hotel, lies at the top of a large hill, was created by Randolf William Hurst in the 1920s - 40s was based on the castles of Europe he had witnessed at the age of ten. In its own time it was the home of both Hurst, sometimes his wife, various famous guests and Hurst personal Zoo (which included Zebras, Polar Bears, Lions, Leopards and many more intriguing animals). The house/castle itself had two swimming pools (the inside one paved partially in gold), and over a hundred rooms, as well as many old statues (the earliest from 3000 years ago) and artworks, some specially made for the house.
It was a truly amazing structure made by a rather odd man (the latter was tried to smooth over in a movie afterwards).
By the end of our tour and the movie on the huge screen it was close to dinner, so we picked up a rather lacking microwaveable dinner from the dairy and took this back to the motel.
After this we had a further work on the beach (seeing flying a group of Pelicans, a first for myself), and then had a swim in the indoor pool.
Tomorrow we look forward to getting to San Francisco, as we continue up the coast of California.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Day 7: At last a Rest.
Finally today we had a much deserved rest day.
We had a late start before going off to Pasadena itself again for a spot of light shopping. Finding Shampoo turned out to be incredibly difficult but we found it and a very cool antiques shop as well.
We spent the majority of the afternoon by or in the pool after a fully American lunch of chips and a hotdog.
We had a late start before going off to Pasadena itself again for a spot of light shopping. Finding Shampoo turned out to be incredibly difficult but we found it and a very cool antiques shop as well.
We spent the majority of the afternoon by or in the pool after a fully American lunch of chips and a hotdog.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Day 6: Long Beach
Well by this time we were really getting sick of the train, but we had to use it again for our longest trip yet, to Long Beach.
After finding the usual Metro Stations we set off down another line to Long Beach. This train ride in total took almost 2 hours. Eventually however we arrived at our destination, and set out towards the waterfront.
Strangely though as we arrived we found that the city of Long Beach itself seemed to lie on the mariner, and no actual beach was in sight. However, what lay across the harbour was something very interesting: The Queen Mary - our intended destination. Turning down signposted offers of a ship to take us across the harbour to it we instead set off to walk there, over one of the main harbour bridges, a little further down the waterfront. This walk helped us see the true scale of this ship, dwarfing a large dome which we later discovered had been home to the "Spruce Goose", the largest plane in aviation history. After we eventually reached the Queen Mary herself we found her berthed beside a WWII Russian submarine, a symbol of the Queen Mary's involvement in this war.
We bought our tickets at the booth and hopped on board to start our guided tour. We were led through the main levels of the Queen Mary including the grand first class areas by an exasperatingly overacting tour guide, but the information was interesting an the tour definitely worth it. Including stories from her days as a luxury cruise liner and a look into the original cabins (period perfect for the time apart from the flat screen TVs installed in the corner - the first class suites are now a hotel) this tour took about 30 minutes. After this tour we quickly had nice sandwiches from the Deli on the top of the ship (great views of the harbour) and went off to the second of our tours: The Ghosts and Legends tour which scared us out of our skins and concluded with the hull (apparently recently fixed with hot glue guns) leaking horrifically, forcing us to evacuate (or walk slowly to the lift). It was an impressive use of smoke and mirrors through the tour, which was made scarier by the prior introductory movie.
Eventually we waved the Queen Mary goodbye and set off back towards the main city of Long Beach to the huge Borders we had seen prior (after we discovered that the largest bookshop in California which had before been in Long Beach had sadly closed). On the way there we discovered multiple New Zealand trees next to the aquarium, including Pohutakawas, just like we had seen in Portugal about two years ago. Evidently this tree is having a world tour. Waving goodbye now to these homely plants we arrived at Borders. We managed to refrain from buying and books (this time) though and set off home to the hotel. It took just under 2 exasperating hours by train this time. Still, the swim was great upon arriving back at the hotel.
Before we had dinner we went to Griffith Park observatory in Hollywood by car (on this same hill stands the Hollywood Sign) and we watched the sunset while also observing the moon through the powerful telescope, originally put there 75 years ago. After observing both the sign and the sunset we set off down the hill again and at the bottom found a terrific restaurant (just like in Portugal this was at the bottom of a hill). After dinner we attempted in vain to see the star's houses in Beverly Hills and then returned again to the hotel.
After finding the usual Metro Stations we set off down another line to Long Beach. This train ride in total took almost 2 hours. Eventually however we arrived at our destination, and set out towards the waterfront.
Strangely though as we arrived we found that the city of Long Beach itself seemed to lie on the mariner, and no actual beach was in sight. However, what lay across the harbour was something very interesting: The Queen Mary - our intended destination. Turning down signposted offers of a ship to take us across the harbour to it we instead set off to walk there, over one of the main harbour bridges, a little further down the waterfront. This walk helped us see the true scale of this ship, dwarfing a large dome which we later discovered had been home to the "Spruce Goose", the largest plane in aviation history. After we eventually reached the Queen Mary herself we found her berthed beside a WWII Russian submarine, a symbol of the Queen Mary's involvement in this war.
We bought our tickets at the booth and hopped on board to start our guided tour. We were led through the main levels of the Queen Mary including the grand first class areas by an exasperatingly overacting tour guide, but the information was interesting an the tour definitely worth it. Including stories from her days as a luxury cruise liner and a look into the original cabins (period perfect for the time apart from the flat screen TVs installed in the corner - the first class suites are now a hotel) this tour took about 30 minutes. After this tour we quickly had nice sandwiches from the Deli on the top of the ship (great views of the harbour) and went off to the second of our tours: The Ghosts and Legends tour which scared us out of our skins and concluded with the hull (apparently recently fixed with hot glue guns) leaking horrifically, forcing us to evacuate (or walk slowly to the lift). It was an impressive use of smoke and mirrors through the tour, which was made scarier by the prior introductory movie.
Eventually we waved the Queen Mary goodbye and set off back towards the main city of Long Beach to the huge Borders we had seen prior (after we discovered that the largest bookshop in California which had before been in Long Beach had sadly closed). On the way there we discovered multiple New Zealand trees next to the aquarium, including Pohutakawas, just like we had seen in Portugal about two years ago. Evidently this tree is having a world tour. Waving goodbye now to these homely plants we arrived at Borders. We managed to refrain from buying and books (this time) though and set off home to the hotel. It took just under 2 exasperating hours by train this time. Still, the swim was great upon arriving back at the hotel.
Before we had dinner we went to Griffith Park observatory in Hollywood by car (on this same hill stands the Hollywood Sign) and we watched the sunset while also observing the moon through the powerful telescope, originally put there 75 years ago. After observing both the sign and the sunset we set off down the hill again and at the bottom found a terrific restaurant (just like in Portugal this was at the bottom of a hill). After dinner we attempted in vain to see the star's houses in Beverly Hills and then returned again to the hotel.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Day 5: Universal Studios
Just in case we hadn't had enough of the train, we hopped on it again to take almost the exact same route as we took yesterday (one stop further this time).
Over an hour later we finally arrived at Universal City Metro stop (although the time was long this was due to the distance, rather than the train service - which actually works!).
Before us was the huge Universal City office, dominating the skyline, along with hills in the distance (strange compared to the flat of Pasadena).
Luckily we did not need to walk up the incredibly steep hill that took you towards Universal Studios, as thankfully there was a shuttle-bus from the station to the park itself (LA's tourist offices don't miss anything.
The front entrance was grand and out the front was the instantly recognisable Universal Globe. Navigating our way through the short yet relatively time consuming lines at the entrance, we bought our tickets and entered the park.
We immediately made a bee-line for the Backlot Tour in the park, which as the name suggests takes you through the famous Backlot of Universal Studios, consisting of Sound stages and movie sets.
Within this tour alone we experienced a flash-flood, dancing special effects cars, an earthquake sending a petrol tanker towards us, and saw prop cars, working sets (like a real crashed 747 from War of the Worlds) and various fronts of buildings used in Blockbuster movies).
After this great 45 minute tour we had another huge American Lunch and then made our way to the new Simpsons ride. This consisted of a fast motion master, trying desperately not to be killed by Sideshow Bob...(as happens sometimes in the Simpsons). The next big attraction was to be the Jurassic Park ride, which to access we had to travel down the huge escalators to the lower lot, passing spectacular views of L.A.. When we reached the ride we were sent in amphibious vehicles through a grove of animatronic dinosaurs before dropping almost vertically down a 40 foot drop. Needles to say we almost lost our stomachs and got hilariously wet at the bottom.
Fore the next couple of hours we killed time until the next showing of the stage show: Waterworld. When eventually we entered this attraction we were greeted with the news that we were likely to get incredibly wet, especially if we sat inside the designated soak-zone (so we did!). This show did not disappoint, with live action stunts (including a crashing sea plane coming through the wall) and we got very wet.
Soon after this we hopped back onto the train, to arrive back at the hotel at our usual time of a quarter to 6, whereupon we swam in the pool before we went and found dinner (Indian).
After another busy day we finally got to bed.
Over an hour later we finally arrived at Universal City Metro stop (although the time was long this was due to the distance, rather than the train service - which actually works!).
Before us was the huge Universal City office, dominating the skyline, along with hills in the distance (strange compared to the flat of Pasadena).
Luckily we did not need to walk up the incredibly steep hill that took you towards Universal Studios, as thankfully there was a shuttle-bus from the station to the park itself (LA's tourist offices don't miss anything.
The front entrance was grand and out the front was the instantly recognisable Universal Globe. Navigating our way through the short yet relatively time consuming lines at the entrance, we bought our tickets and entered the park.
We immediately made a bee-line for the Backlot Tour in the park, which as the name suggests takes you through the famous Backlot of Universal Studios, consisting of Sound stages and movie sets.
Within this tour alone we experienced a flash-flood, dancing special effects cars, an earthquake sending a petrol tanker towards us, and saw prop cars, working sets (like a real crashed 747 from War of the Worlds) and various fronts of buildings used in Blockbuster movies).
After this great 45 minute tour we had another huge American Lunch and then made our way to the new Simpsons ride. This consisted of a fast motion master, trying desperately not to be killed by Sideshow Bob...(as happens sometimes in the Simpsons). The next big attraction was to be the Jurassic Park ride, which to access we had to travel down the huge escalators to the lower lot, passing spectacular views of L.A.. When we reached the ride we were sent in amphibious vehicles through a grove of animatronic dinosaurs before dropping almost vertically down a 40 foot drop. Needles to say we almost lost our stomachs and got hilariously wet at the bottom.
Fore the next couple of hours we killed time until the next showing of the stage show: Waterworld. When eventually we entered this attraction we were greeted with the news that we were likely to get incredibly wet, especially if we sat inside the designated soak-zone (so we did!). This show did not disappoint, with live action stunts (including a crashing sea plane coming through the wall) and we got very wet.
Soon after this we hopped back onto the train, to arrive back at the hotel at our usual time of a quarter to 6, whereupon we swam in the pool before we went and found dinner (Indian).
After another busy day we finally got to bed.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Day 4: Hollywood Boulevard
The day once again began slowly, and we finally managed to skip the expensive hotel breakfast and have one in our room (thanks to late night shopping at the supermarket the day before).
After breakfast we found our way to the Metro Station, actually just around the corner at Memorial Park. After working out how to work the machine we got our tickets for unlimited Metro train and bus travel for the day.
From here we boarded the train to a fast trip to the other side of L.A. and our destination: the famous Hollywood Boulevard. Our trip by train was brilliant after being so used to Auckland's own dodgy train service.
We arrived at the corner of Hollywood and Highland (roads) and were finally standing within the labelled stars at Hollywood. There are three main attractions as you leave this station, that of the Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Waxworks and the Guinness World Record museums. We visited these in due course, the Ripley's museum amusing but odd (there was a whole section on medical miracles, with bizarre objects removed from "indestructible" people; this section was not really of great interest), while the World Record museum rather more interesting, which included a 10min long video of one of the longest domino runs.
After these attractions we walked the street in search of famous names, trying not to be put on tour buses by very good spielers. At first we found such stars as Marylin Monroe (unfortunately now located directly outside McDonald's) and Walt Disney. After a look into the standard tourist shops for some small mementos, we had lunch then began up the other direction of the street. This was much more interesting. Aside from seeing such names as Harrison Ford, Steven Spielberg, Godzilla, Lassie and others we also came across a blocked off area of the street outside the main area of the Boulevard. Unbeknownst at first to us, this was the Grand World Premiere of Toy Story 3. The red carpet was out but we recognised few of the stars.
We eventually had had enough of Hollywood and after spotting the Hollywood sign back in the distance we travelled via Metro back to the hotel. Here we found again it was the perfect temperature for a swim, so acted accordingly.
Eventually we found dinner at a Thai restaurant and had a new experiment for pudding (slightly further down the road): a frozen yogurt bar. It was delicious! Before returning to the hotel we went on to discover a brilliant bookshop round the corner (which would have helped us yesterday, before we walked to the Borders on the other side of town!). Rest assured we will be back to this new shop soon, the prices are so much lower than NZ!
We look forward to tomorrow, as the Theme Parks continue: Universal Studios!
Pictures of this day and prior ones will follow later (when I find the Time).
After breakfast we found our way to the Metro Station, actually just around the corner at Memorial Park. After working out how to work the machine we got our tickets for unlimited Metro train and bus travel for the day.
From here we boarded the train to a fast trip to the other side of L.A. and our destination: the famous Hollywood Boulevard. Our trip by train was brilliant after being so used to Auckland's own dodgy train service.
We arrived at the corner of Hollywood and Highland (roads) and were finally standing within the labelled stars at Hollywood. There are three main attractions as you leave this station, that of the Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Waxworks and the Guinness World Record museums. We visited these in due course, the Ripley's museum amusing but odd (there was a whole section on medical miracles, with bizarre objects removed from "indestructible" people; this section was not really of great interest), while the World Record museum rather more interesting, which included a 10min long video of one of the longest domino runs.
After these attractions we walked the street in search of famous names, trying not to be put on tour buses by very good spielers. At first we found such stars as Marylin Monroe (unfortunately now located directly outside McDonald's) and Walt Disney. After a look into the standard tourist shops for some small mementos, we had lunch then began up the other direction of the street. This was much more interesting. Aside from seeing such names as Harrison Ford, Steven Spielberg, Godzilla, Lassie and others we also came across a blocked off area of the street outside the main area of the Boulevard. Unbeknownst at first to us, this was the Grand World Premiere of Toy Story 3. The red carpet was out but we recognised few of the stars.
We eventually had had enough of Hollywood and after spotting the Hollywood sign back in the distance we travelled via Metro back to the hotel. Here we found again it was the perfect temperature for a swim, so acted accordingly.
Eventually we found dinner at a Thai restaurant and had a new experiment for pudding (slightly further down the road): a frozen yogurt bar. It was delicious! Before returning to the hotel we went on to discover a brilliant bookshop round the corner (which would have helped us yesterday, before we walked to the Borders on the other side of town!). Rest assured we will be back to this new shop soon, the prices are so much lower than NZ!
We look forward to tomorrow, as the Theme Parks continue: Universal Studios!
Pictures of this day and prior ones will follow later (when I find the Time).
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Day 3: Pasadena
Afetr a much needed sleep in (we got back form Disneyland at close to Midnight last night), we set off to find out what Pasadena had to offer us. After a quick Breakfast we caught a taxi to Huntington Library.
In this museum we discovered not only an original Gutenberg Bible - the first ever published book, the huge Audubon's "Birds of America", an edition of Shakespeare's first published works, and books belonging to such people as Isaac Newton (complete with hand written notes) and Einstein.
Also in the complex was a maze of gardens, including cacti, Japanese gardens, a small rainforest, Australian and even New Zealand plants. Oh, and skinks and squirells.
After leaving the Huntington, we spent altogether too long walking through the streets of Pasadena, with a gigantic Town Hall and some classic buildings. We walked our feet off again, but now know most of Pasadena very well indeed (which can be unfortunate, as many of the streets we travelled on a lot really were not that interesting).
We had the official standard huge American meal for dinner, and it's no joke about their size!
In this museum we discovered not only an original Gutenberg Bible - the first ever published book, the huge Audubon's "Birds of America", an edition of Shakespeare's first published works, and books belonging to such people as Isaac Newton (complete with hand written notes) and Einstein.
Also in the complex was a maze of gardens, including cacti, Japanese gardens, a small rainforest, Australian and even New Zealand plants. Oh, and skinks and squirells.
After leaving the Huntington, we spent altogether too long walking through the streets of Pasadena, with a gigantic Town Hall and some classic buildings. We walked our feet off again, but now know most of Pasadena very well indeed (which can be unfortunate, as many of the streets we travelled on a lot really were not that interesting).
We had the official standard huge American meal for dinner, and it's no joke about their size!
Friday, June 11, 2010
Day 2: Disneyland
Well, that was Disneyland.
We got up at 7am and found the Hotel's Continental Breakfast without much difficulty. After the muesli and fresh fruit we moved on to the freeway and told the Sat-nav to take us to Disneyland. Eventually it found the way through the confusing over bridges and we arrived at the huge Disneyland resort, practically a city in itself ( it even has multiple freeway off ramps reserved solely for this attraction).
Finding our way through the 5 story parking facility, we caught the specially designed transports to the main gate. Finally, at 9:30am on Friday 11th June we entered the Land of Disney.
Working our way up the unique main street, full with the inevitable souvenir shops, food stalls and even a movie theater showing 6 classic Mickey Mouse films. The buildings were all singularly designed and the entire place could have been an actual town.
We next found ourselves in the first of many lands in Disneyland: Adventureland. We made straight for the Indiana Jones Adventure Ride, renowned as the best ride at Disneyland. It didn't disappoint, with a fast ride in darkness across rope bridges, dodging snakes and rolling boulders.
Throughout the day we went on to do almost every ride at "The Happiest Place on Earth", in order:
The jungle cruise, the Pirates of the Caribbean "Dead Men Tell no Tales", Splash Mountain (which stuck to its name as the huge drop got us soaked!), Star Tours (a Star Wars spin-off that took us rather off course from our supposed destination of Endor), Innoventions, the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain and The haunted Mansion. These filled up our time rather nicely. After dinner and a little bit of shopping, we finally saw the spectacular show "Fantasmic" which lit up the "Rivers of America" area and included great lightshows and fireworks.
Wanting to skip the later rush, we left as they were setting off the final fireworks, and said goodbye to the lit up Disneyland, as we exited via Main Street. Over 12 hours had passed since we had first entered the gates.
Now I can truly say I've done Disneyland, the full experience after a spectacular day.
Been there, done that, bought the T-shirt!
We got up at 7am and found the Hotel's Continental Breakfast without much difficulty. After the muesli and fresh fruit we moved on to the freeway and told the Sat-nav to take us to Disneyland. Eventually it found the way through the confusing over bridges and we arrived at the huge Disneyland resort, practically a city in itself ( it even has multiple freeway off ramps reserved solely for this attraction).
Finding our way through the 5 story parking facility, we caught the specially designed transports to the main gate. Finally, at 9:30am on Friday 11th June we entered the Land of Disney.
Working our way up the unique main street, full with the inevitable souvenir shops, food stalls and even a movie theater showing 6 classic Mickey Mouse films. The buildings were all singularly designed and the entire place could have been an actual town.
We next found ourselves in the first of many lands in Disneyland: Adventureland. We made straight for the Indiana Jones Adventure Ride, renowned as the best ride at Disneyland. It didn't disappoint, with a fast ride in darkness across rope bridges, dodging snakes and rolling boulders.
Throughout the day we went on to do almost every ride at "The Happiest Place on Earth", in order:
The jungle cruise, the Pirates of the Caribbean "Dead Men Tell no Tales", Splash Mountain (which stuck to its name as the huge drop got us soaked!), Star Tours (a Star Wars spin-off that took us rather off course from our supposed destination of Endor), Innoventions, the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain and The haunted Mansion. These filled up our time rather nicely. After dinner and a little bit of shopping, we finally saw the spectacular show "Fantasmic" which lit up the "Rivers of America" area and included great lightshows and fireworks.
Wanting to skip the later rush, we left as they were setting off the final fireworks, and said goodbye to the lit up Disneyland, as we exited via Main Street. Over 12 hours had passed since we had first entered the gates.
Now I can truly say I've done Disneyland, the full experience after a spectacular day.
Been there, done that, bought the T-shirt!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Day 1: New Zealand to Los Angeles
Well, after an almost 12 hour flight we have finally got to our hotel in Passadena, L.A.
We left Auckland airport at approximately 9:30pm on Thursday 10th and after a lengthy, uncomfortable, but of course necessary flight we arrived at Los Angeles airport at 2:30pm, Thursday the 10th. Horray for time travel!
Feeling entirely jet-lagged (having got quite literally no sleep on the plane) we found our way to the rental car office (which for reasons that escape me had no less than 19 security cameras in an area of less than 500 metres squared) and found our car.
Next we negotiated our way through the spaghetti that is the various Interstates and found our way into Pasadena itself, and our hotel: The Courtyard Marriott, which shall be our home base for the next few days.
It all seems rather unreal really, the city is gigantic (flying in it was a mass of houses and other buildings) and quite frankly my brain is not functioning properly having been awake now for almost 30 hours.
Oh well, after a rest tonight, hopefully I'll feel more human tomorrow. Disneyland, here we come.
We left Auckland airport at approximately 9:30pm on Thursday 10th and after a lengthy, uncomfortable, but of course necessary flight we arrived at Los Angeles airport at 2:30pm, Thursday the 10th. Horray for time travel!
Feeling entirely jet-lagged (having got quite literally no sleep on the plane) we found our way to the rental car office (which for reasons that escape me had no less than 19 security cameras in an area of less than 500 metres squared) and found our car.
Next we negotiated our way through the spaghetti that is the various Interstates and found our way into Pasadena itself, and our hotel: The Courtyard Marriott, which shall be our home base for the next few days.
It all seems rather unreal really, the city is gigantic (flying in it was a mass of houses and other buildings) and quite frankly my brain is not functioning properly having been awake now for almost 30 hours.
Oh well, after a rest tonight, hopefully I'll feel more human tomorrow. Disneyland, here we come.
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