(Written by Beverley, to be edited by others)
Waking up, last minute packing and then into the cab/shuttle bus to the airport.
Our only grey day in Seattle...no rain, the whole time though, despite it raining 200 days of the year...we were very lucky.
Arriving at the airport and trying to check in, overweight and so repacking taking place...though staff did let us to check in extra bags at no extra cost.
Went through security, ate some lunch and after looking at the shops but not buying anything because not really tax free and our limited allowance because of transferring in Iceland.
Got on the flight at 4, took off at 4:30 and we were on our way home.
We arrived back in the UK at 11am on Sunday and there our American Dream ends.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Day 29 - Seattle Number 2
(written by Beverley, to be edited by others)
The people staying at Kishan’s cousin’s house had fun lugging the suitcases we had UPS-ed there up from the basement! Charis and Rowena delivered Beverley and Jamie theirs at the hotel and then the four of them took the car back to the rental car office. After a tearful goodbye to our loyal Kia Sedona, which had not failed us the whole time, much to our relief, we headed down to Pike Place Market.
We spent the majority of the day in Pike Place Market, just browsing the shops and stalls...seeing fish being thrown etc. We met up with Kishan and Luke at 3pm in the Original Starbucks and then went to sit looking at the sea nearby. After sitting here for a while, we decided on a change in location...so in British style, we went to sit in a pub. We went to Pike Place Brewery. Here the girls tried the lightest beer (Naughty Nellie) on the menu, a good choice as Beverley discovered when her and Jamie did the sampler (small cups of 6 different types of Pike’s beer from lightest to darkest)
We ate food in this pub too which was tasty, first time Charis had ever eaten Prawn and rice in a pub! After food, we headed in the direction of the space needle. We split paths on the way, with Beverley and Jamie returning to the hotel to pack bags, the C,K,L,R going on to the 7Eleven by the needle and then heading back to pack bags till gone 11pm, and Luke going to the Sky Needle for dinner before heading to bed at Kishan’s cousin's.
The people staying at Kishan’s cousin’s house had fun lugging the suitcases we had UPS-ed there up from the basement! Charis and Rowena delivered Beverley and Jamie theirs at the hotel and then the four of them took the car back to the rental car office. After a tearful goodbye to our loyal Kia Sedona, which had not failed us the whole time, much to our relief, we headed down to Pike Place Market.
We spent the majority of the day in Pike Place Market, just browsing the shops and stalls...seeing fish being thrown etc. We met up with Kishan and Luke at 3pm in the Original Starbucks and then went to sit looking at the sea nearby. After sitting here for a while, we decided on a change in location...so in British style, we went to sit in a pub. We went to Pike Place Brewery. Here the girls tried the lightest beer (Naughty Nellie) on the menu, a good choice as Beverley discovered when her and Jamie did the sampler (small cups of 6 different types of Pike’s beer from lightest to darkest)
We ate food in this pub too which was tasty, first time Charis had ever eaten Prawn and rice in a pub! After food, we headed in the direction of the space needle. We split paths on the way, with Beverley and Jamie returning to the hotel to pack bags, the C,K,L,R going on to the 7Eleven by the needle and then heading back to pack bags till gone 11pm, and Luke going to the Sky Needle for dinner before heading to bed at Kishan’s cousin's.
Day 28 - Seattle
(written by Beverley, to be edited by the others)
We arrived in Seattle, our first two stops were viewing points of the city, where we took photos of the skyline, made famous by the show Frasier. After this we headed to the Pioneer Square area and went on the Underground Seattle tour after lunch in the cafe where the tickets were sold. The underground Seattle tour took you under the street level to show you the ‘ground’ floor of each building. Basically after a fire and floods, Seattle decided to build up their street level...businesses weren’t prepared to wait 25 years for this to happen, so rebuilt in 1889, but with the ground floor and the first floor having entry ways into the building, ready for street level to be raised 10-35ft by the government at a later date. Walking underground, you therefore saw the original ground floor entries.
After the tour, we went in search of luggage for all the excess we’d accumulated and decided Chinatown would be a good bet. However the China town was small and there was no luggage place in siight. Having failed in our mission, we dropped Beverley and Jamie off at their hotel to check in. After this, they just chilled in the hotel and then for a wander to the Sky Needle and then to Hurricane Cafe for dinner. They then stayed up late watching Doc Martin to re-culture themselves to Britishness.
The others meanwhile, took a walk down to Pikes Place still in search of suitcases, finding one in Ross (kind of like TK Max), then trundled it back to the car.Then headed to Wal*Mart and brought pasta and sauce for a dinner which they then cooked at Kishan's cousin’s house where they were staying.
We arrived in Seattle, our first two stops were viewing points of the city, where we took photos of the skyline, made famous by the show Frasier. After this we headed to the Pioneer Square area and went on the Underground Seattle tour after lunch in the cafe where the tickets were sold. The underground Seattle tour took you under the street level to show you the ‘ground’ floor of each building. Basically after a fire and floods, Seattle decided to build up their street level...businesses weren’t prepared to wait 25 years for this to happen, so rebuilt in 1889, but with the ground floor and the first floor having entry ways into the building, ready for street level to be raised 10-35ft by the government at a later date. Walking underground, you therefore saw the original ground floor entries.
After the tour, we went in search of luggage for all the excess we’d accumulated and decided Chinatown would be a good bet. However the China town was small and there was no luggage place in siight. Having failed in our mission, we dropped Beverley and Jamie off at their hotel to check in. After this, they just chilled in the hotel and then for a wander to the Sky Needle and then to Hurricane Cafe for dinner. They then stayed up late watching Doc Martin to re-culture themselves to Britishness.
The others meanwhile, took a walk down to Pikes Place still in search of suitcases, finding one in Ross (kind of like TK Max), then trundled it back to the car.Then headed to Wal*Mart and brought pasta and sauce for a dinner which they then cooked at Kishan's cousin’s house where they were staying.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Day 27 – Eugene/Springfield to Olympia/Tumwater
We started off our day with a trip to a tax free shopping centre. Jamie and Beverley took up place in the Starbucks to avoid temptation whilst the others went to spend their pennies. We met up for lunch in Quizno’s before heading to Wal*Mart, where Jamie did give in to temptation and brought a PS3.
After this, headed to David Hill Winery to wine taste and buy a bottle or two. After playing with the dogs that were hanging about and letting the wine wear off, headed back on the road to Tumwater for the night.
We arrived and then went to a Mexican restaurant around the corner...and then as always headed to bed after to prepare us for the day ahead.
After this, headed to David Hill Winery to wine taste and buy a bottle or two. After playing with the dogs that were hanging about and letting the wine wear off, headed back on the road to Tumwater for the night.
We arrived and then went to a Mexican restaurant around the corner...and then as always headed to bed after to prepare us for the day ahead.
Day 26 - San Fran to Eugene/Springfield
Pretty much just a day of driving...started off the day by getting tires filled with air as they were running pretty flat after 5500 miles! They were filled by two guys at the station, still not sure if they were employed there or just doing it for cash, either way we were pumped up and ready to go the next 532 miles. Headed back over the Bay Bridge and onto Interstate 5.
On our journey, we passed by Mt Shasta and the Castle Crags, and stopped in a town called Weed nearby to these. Some very pretty scenery on the way and Beverley had some fun driving down steep hills again.
We arrived in Springfield and headed to the Outback Steakhouse for dinner. It was tasty, and tasted even better when the cost was below that on the menu when the bills came and the lack of tax on top....it was almost like being back in the UK.
After this, headed back to Motel 6 to chill, do washing and then head to bed.
On our journey, we passed by Mt Shasta and the Castle Crags, and stopped in a town called Weed nearby to these. Some very pretty scenery on the way and Beverley had some fun driving down steep hills again.
We arrived in Springfield and headed to the Outback Steakhouse for dinner. It was tasty, and tasted even better when the cost was below that on the menu when the bills came and the lack of tax on top....it was almost like being back in the UK.
After this, headed back to Motel 6 to chill, do washing and then head to bed.
Day 25 - San Fran Day 2
Got up and after a breakfast where Kishan had 3 pastries! We headed to union square to get the bus to Fisherman’s Wharf so we could get the ferry over to Alcatraz....the bus set off later than we expected, so with some quick marching, we made it to the terminal.
One arriving on the island, the group split....Jamie and Beverley decided to go to the cells first at the top of the hill and the others opted for working from top to bottom.
J&B, got the audio tour from the shower room in Alcatraz and worked their way around. It was definitely a worthwhile experience...the prison was so run down and unpleasant. The thing that was most unpleasant and eerie though for Beverley was stepping inside the solitary confinement cells....it was extremely creepy, even for the brief few seconds, and definitely not something she’d want to have to experience on a longer basis. After doing the tour, they made it to the next ferry and then ran to catch the 1:30 Golden Gate Bridge tour. It was packed! They managed to find seats on top and had the windswept journey across the bridge...and windswept it was. After a brief stop on the other side, the bus journeyed back into San Francisco.
J&B got off at stop number 10 which was by Lombard Street, the ‘crookedest’ street in the world. Basically, instead of being a straight line down the hill, it weaves back and forward. After the steep inclined up the back of it, and the walk down it and picture taking, J&B headed for food. They found a pizza place near the Cannery (where Canning of food took place) and then they headed to Ghiradelli Square for pudding. Ghiradelli (a chocolate brand) had its first shop here; J&B had a look around the shop and then ate a rather scrummy but very sweet ‘Gold Rush’ – Vanilla Ice Cream with hot fudge and peanut butter sauce. After this, they headed back to the hotel via the cable car, because a trip to San Francisco would not be complete without one.
Luke, Kishan, Charis and Rowena meanwhile.... started off watching a video documentary on Alcatraz before heading to the audio tour shower room beginning. Ro commented that the shower room reminded her of a milking parlour. They walked around and then attended a talk on Al Capone with a ranger called Al. After this they took the ferry back and then did some tourist shopping before getting the Golden Gate Bridge tour, which was windy. They then did Lombard street which was very steep and then to cable car to market street. Hopping on the Muni train, they went to check out Castro, the gay district of San Francisco. They saw the Harvey Milk Memorial at the former Castro Cameras, the store that Harvey Milk operated in San Francisco, and now sells jewellery. They stopped off at the Human Rights Campaign store where Luke bought a Kenneth Cole t-shirt. Afterwards, they had a drink at Harvey’s Bar on Castro Street. Rowena and Charis had beer, Kishan had lemonade and Luke had a Harvey’s Mai Tai. Took a tram to Union Square and then walked to China Town for dinner. They then took a taxi back to the hotel. In all they took 7 modes of transport that day...no wonder Kishan was so shattered he tried to let himself into the wrong room when they got back to the hotel.
One arriving on the island, the group split....Jamie and Beverley decided to go to the cells first at the top of the hill and the others opted for working from top to bottom.
J&B, got the audio tour from the shower room in Alcatraz and worked their way around. It was definitely a worthwhile experience...the prison was so run down and unpleasant. The thing that was most unpleasant and eerie though for Beverley was stepping inside the solitary confinement cells....it was extremely creepy, even for the brief few seconds, and definitely not something she’d want to have to experience on a longer basis. After doing the tour, they made it to the next ferry and then ran to catch the 1:30 Golden Gate Bridge tour. It was packed! They managed to find seats on top and had the windswept journey across the bridge...and windswept it was. After a brief stop on the other side, the bus journeyed back into San Francisco.
J&B got off at stop number 10 which was by Lombard Street, the ‘crookedest’ street in the world. Basically, instead of being a straight line down the hill, it weaves back and forward. After the steep inclined up the back of it, and the walk down it and picture taking, J&B headed for food. They found a pizza place near the Cannery (where Canning of food took place) and then they headed to Ghiradelli Square for pudding. Ghiradelli (a chocolate brand) had its first shop here; J&B had a look around the shop and then ate a rather scrummy but very sweet ‘Gold Rush’ – Vanilla Ice Cream with hot fudge and peanut butter sauce. After this, they headed back to the hotel via the cable car, because a trip to San Francisco would not be complete without one.
Luke, Kishan, Charis and Rowena meanwhile.... started off watching a video documentary on Alcatraz before heading to the audio tour shower room beginning. Ro commented that the shower room reminded her of a milking parlour. They walked around and then attended a talk on Al Capone with a ranger called Al. After this they took the ferry back and then did some tourist shopping before getting the Golden Gate Bridge tour, which was windy. They then did Lombard street which was very steep and then to cable car to market street. Hopping on the Muni train, they went to check out Castro, the gay district of San Francisco. They saw the Harvey Milk Memorial at the former Castro Cameras, the store that Harvey Milk operated in San Francisco, and now sells jewellery. They stopped off at the Human Rights Campaign store where Luke bought a Kenneth Cole t-shirt. Afterwards, they had a drink at Harvey’s Bar on Castro Street. Rowena and Charis had beer, Kishan had lemonade and Luke had a Harvey’s Mai Tai. Took a tram to Union Square and then walked to China Town for dinner. They then took a taxi back to the hotel. In all they took 7 modes of transport that day...no wonder Kishan was so shattered he tried to let himself into the wrong room when they got back to the hotel.
Day 24 – San Francisco
Entered San Francisco over the Bay Bridge- which in fact is longer than the Golden Gate bridge, completed one year before, is two tiered and is sinking 1.5 inches each year as a result of the 1989 earthquake....just a few facts for you.
We parked the car and headed for Union Square, the site of the first underground car park. On our way we saw the famous San Francisco cable cars being turned around at Market. Arriving at the square, we were convinced to get a dodgy looking tour bus, but for $28 and 4 tours for the price of two usually, we couldn’t really complain. We jumped on the downtown loop to go to Fisherman’s Wharf...we were told that the lighthouse on Alcatraz was the first ever...what I think the tour guide meant to say was that it was the first one on the North Pacific coast line! We headed to pier 33, and got tickets to visit Alcatraz the next day and then jumped back on the bus to get back to Union Square for the 1:30 Golden Gate Park tour.
The park however, was closed on a Sunday... (Or so we were told...Beverley believes that yes the ordinary entrance was closed but that the driver missed the alternative he was directed too as she saw another bus inside the park!) Instead of being taken around the parks, the driver instead took us to see all the ‘beautiful’ (his catchphrase) things around the area. We saw lots of ‘painted ladies’ which are painted Victorian properties. He took us back via Alamo Square, where we saw the most photographed/postcard painted ladies.
After arriving back, we took a stop into Starbucks to warm up, and Rowena got another free coffee for guessing the difference between real and instant. We then did a brief stop in Borders before hopping on the ‘Night’ tour – if you can call 5pm and daylight, night time. This tour took us on a slightly different route so we could get a good view of the Bay Bridge.
We headed back to the hotel and Luke and Kishan got talking to a teacher collecting money for supplies in exchange for I heart SF stickers. When we got back to the hotel, decided to go for dinner nearby and so headed to Basil, a Thai restaurant a few doors down...very tasty food.
Back to the hotel to overhear a domestic in the room next door, and eventually to sleep.
We parked the car and headed for Union Square, the site of the first underground car park. On our way we saw the famous San Francisco cable cars being turned around at Market. Arriving at the square, we were convinced to get a dodgy looking tour bus, but for $28 and 4 tours for the price of two usually, we couldn’t really complain. We jumped on the downtown loop to go to Fisherman’s Wharf...we were told that the lighthouse on Alcatraz was the first ever...what I think the tour guide meant to say was that it was the first one on the North Pacific coast line! We headed to pier 33, and got tickets to visit Alcatraz the next day and then jumped back on the bus to get back to Union Square for the 1:30 Golden Gate Park tour.
The park however, was closed on a Sunday... (Or so we were told...Beverley believes that yes the ordinary entrance was closed but that the driver missed the alternative he was directed too as she saw another bus inside the park!) Instead of being taken around the parks, the driver instead took us to see all the ‘beautiful’ (his catchphrase) things around the area. We saw lots of ‘painted ladies’ which are painted Victorian properties. He took us back via Alamo Square, where we saw the most photographed/postcard painted ladies.
After arriving back, we took a stop into Starbucks to warm up, and Rowena got another free coffee for guessing the difference between real and instant. We then did a brief stop in Borders before hopping on the ‘Night’ tour – if you can call 5pm and daylight, night time. This tour took us on a slightly different route so we could get a good view of the Bay Bridge.
We headed back to the hotel and Luke and Kishan got talking to a teacher collecting money for supplies in exchange for I heart SF stickers. When we got back to the hotel, decided to go for dinner nearby and so headed to Basil, a Thai restaurant a few doors down...very tasty food.
Back to the hotel to overhear a domestic in the room next door, and eventually to sleep.
Day 23 – Driving from Santa Barbara to San Francisco
We took the Pacific Highway number 1/101 along the coast. This was a good choice in terms of the lovely coastal views, not so good a choice in terms of how windy and up and down the roads were. They left us all feeling a little car sick. We also got stuck behind some slow motorcyclist, the passenger of one of the bikes keep turning around and taking pictures.
We stopped for lunch at a cafe on a hill overlooking the ocean, it was very pretty and quite a quiet little spot. We continued on after, opting for the interstate instead for a calmer journey. We finally stopped at a Mall to plan the next move.
Rowena managed to guess the instant coffee from the real one whilst we pow-wowed in Starbucks. And then we all went for a shop for jumpers, as it was damn cold compared to the heat of LA! Though some of us did some spending beyond jumpers!
We drove on to Fremont to rest our heads, deciding to make the final leg to San Francisco the next day when we could find hotels for cheaper. Had Japanese for dinner – Luke’s was most interesting, opting for the Sushi, which among other things included seahorse/tentacles...we’re still not sure which!
We stopped for lunch at a cafe on a hill overlooking the ocean, it was very pretty and quite a quiet little spot. We continued on after, opting for the interstate instead for a calmer journey. We finally stopped at a Mall to plan the next move.
Rowena managed to guess the instant coffee from the real one whilst we pow-wowed in Starbucks. And then we all went for a shop for jumpers, as it was damn cold compared to the heat of LA! Though some of us did some spending beyond jumpers!
We drove on to Fremont to rest our heads, deciding to make the final leg to San Francisco the next day when we could find hotels for cheaper. Had Japanese for dinner – Luke’s was most interesting, opting for the Sushi, which among other things included seahorse/tentacles...we’re still not sure which!
Day 22 - A Day in LA
After a light breakfast in our Hollywood decorated Days Inn (paintings of movie characters lined the walls and doors of the outside of the hotel), we headed off to catch the metro 2 stops to the Chinese Theatre show. After a brief walk along the walk of fame, we came across the ticket booth for the Starline City Sightseeing Tour we had decided to take. We ‘Hopped on’ the Red Hollywood loop and headed to the Old Beverly Hills Post office to make a transfer onto the Santa Monica/Beverley Hills loop. We were a bit disappointed as the sound system was not working so we missed out on commentary of what we were seeing, but we passed the Guitar Centre’s Walk of Fame, Château Marmont and the Comedy Store.
Nearby the Old Post Office was the city hall used as the police headquarters in Beverley Hills Cop. We headed on the yellow loop (which had commentary!) and passed by Brentwood and Beverly Hills itself, getting to see the houses of the stars from afar. We finally reached Santa Monica beach, where we saw the lifeguard stations that feature on Baywatch, and Malibu in the distances along the coast. Then we walked down the pier that Forrest Gump turned around on and said he’ll just keep going! And so did we - on our trip of crossing America. Back onto the bus and back onto the post office to do the rest of the red loop, we stopped briefly at the post office whilst waiting for the bus to do some mandatory posing with a Beverly Hills sign.
Along the red route again, we stopped to get a Pinks Hot Dog...which are apparently famous, the queue however was not so favourable and so we opted for a Hot Wings place, though none of us actually had hot wings. Back on the bus to the Chinese Theatre to switch to the Downtown loop. When we got back to the Theatre, it was much busier than first thing in the morning, more ‘stars’ around – people dressed up as characters from films there to be photographed for tips...
The downtown bus, we had a real life person giving commentary...he thought he was funny but all he got was a polite smile from the crowd...but at least he wasn’t as repetitive as the automated English man voice we had on the previous bus. We passed Walt Disney Concert Hall, the first fire-station and other random ‘landmarks’ and after a 2 hour trip ended up back at the Chinese Theatre.
We finally went inside to look at the feet and hands. We discovered the Jamie has the same size feet as Johnny Depp and Adam Sandler and Rowena’s were the same as John Wayne’s. Charis had the same size hands as Elizabeth Taylor and Julie Andrews had really tiny hands. We decided that those stars which were wearing shoes (especially heels!) were cheating and that everyone should be required to do it barefoot so more accurate comparisons could be made.
We finished our comparisons and went to Johnny Rockets for dinner, then picked up the car from our motel and headed on to Santa Barbara for the night.
Nearby the Old Post Office was the city hall used as the police headquarters in Beverley Hills Cop. We headed on the yellow loop (which had commentary!) and passed by Brentwood and Beverly Hills itself, getting to see the houses of the stars from afar. We finally reached Santa Monica beach, where we saw the lifeguard stations that feature on Baywatch, and Malibu in the distances along the coast. Then we walked down the pier that Forrest Gump turned around on and said he’ll just keep going! And so did we - on our trip of crossing America. Back onto the bus and back onto the post office to do the rest of the red loop, we stopped briefly at the post office whilst waiting for the bus to do some mandatory posing with a Beverly Hills sign.
Along the red route again, we stopped to get a Pinks Hot Dog...which are apparently famous, the queue however was not so favourable and so we opted for a Hot Wings place, though none of us actually had hot wings. Back on the bus to the Chinese Theatre to switch to the Downtown loop. When we got back to the Theatre, it was much busier than first thing in the morning, more ‘stars’ around – people dressed up as characters from films there to be photographed for tips...
The downtown bus, we had a real life person giving commentary...he thought he was funny but all he got was a polite smile from the crowd...but at least he wasn’t as repetitive as the automated English man voice we had on the previous bus. We passed Walt Disney Concert Hall, the first fire-station and other random ‘landmarks’ and after a 2 hour trip ended up back at the Chinese Theatre.
We finally went inside to look at the feet and hands. We discovered the Jamie has the same size feet as Johnny Depp and Adam Sandler and Rowena’s were the same as John Wayne’s. Charis had the same size hands as Elizabeth Taylor and Julie Andrews had really tiny hands. We decided that those stars which were wearing shoes (especially heels!) were cheating and that everyone should be required to do it barefoot so more accurate comparisons could be made.
We finished our comparisons and went to Johnny Rockets for dinner, then picked up the car from our motel and headed on to Santa Barbara for the night.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Day 21 - San Diego to LA
After breakfasts were gathered from various places, we left around 10:30am. The traffic wasn’t as bad as we expected, it continued moving but was busy. We detoured via Rowena’s old work place’s LA office in downtown, so we drove into the city centre, passing Walk Disney’s concert hall. For the first time, Charis didn’t give us an unintentional tour of the city. We parked up and went to find food, ending up in a food court in Macy’s Plaza. Luke went solo to Rodeo Drive, and spent money....
After food and a book purchase later, we headed on to find the hotel. Coming off the freeway and onto Hollywood Blvd, we caught a glimpse of the Hollywood Sign. Checked in, and then went for walk to go get a picture of the sign, hard to do due to all the wires as residential area. After our walk, went and relaxed by the pool...Beverley read her new book, Jamie listened to music, Kishan, Ro and Charis swam and then read books.
Waited for Luke to return from his shopping spree, and then went to explore ‘Thai town’, settling for a yummy Thai dinner just a few minutes up the road, complete with deep fried ice cream for pudding.
After food and a book purchase later, we headed on to find the hotel. Coming off the freeway and onto Hollywood Blvd, we caught a glimpse of the Hollywood Sign. Checked in, and then went for walk to go get a picture of the sign, hard to do due to all the wires as residential area. After our walk, went and relaxed by the pool...Beverley read her new book, Jamie listened to music, Kishan, Ro and Charis swam and then read books.
Waited for Luke to return from his shopping spree, and then went to explore ‘Thai town’, settling for a yummy Thai dinner just a few minutes up the road, complete with deep fried ice cream for pudding.
Beverley, Jamie, Luke and Kishan headed out at 9:20 to catch the ‘Old Town Trolley Tour’ bus from Little Italy a few streets away. After a little while, the bus arrived and they jumped on. They were transported to old Town, which is the original site of San Diego before the Bay was developed and the settlement moved there. There were lots of free museums in the area, mostly of old school houses and homes and then old style shops.
The gang decided to check out the Sheriff museum which provided for some photo opportunities. There was an unlocked sheriff car in the courtyard, Luke went into the back seat and closed the door, not realising there wouldn’t be any handles inside to get back out! We looked around the museum, and did some more posing on a police motorcycle before battling school children and deciding to leave.
Hopping back on the bus, we continued on the route past the harbour but got off at the Seaport village, which had more shops and restaurants. After a short stay, got back on to check out Coronado, via the gaslamp quarter, and the Petco baseball stadium, and Dole Bananas. We checked out both stops in Coronado, the Ferry landing (more shops and restaurants) and Orange Avenue, which had a beach (4th best in the USA) and a fancy looking hotel. Whilst getting lunch in a bagel shop, we ran into Charis and Rowena. After lunching together, we went on to Balboa Park, which is known as the ‘Smithsonian of the West’ due to the multiple museums there (though they aren’t free like in Washington.) Went on a tram trip as it was free to see a little bit more of the park and then just wandered up and down the paths for a bit and saw army cadets in training. We went into Zoah’s garden and Jamie climbed a tree. After this, headed back to Little Italy, on the same bus as Charis and Rowena in the end.
Charis and Rowena overslept in the morning, found a muffin and coffee for breakfast and brought stamps and a Citibank, before making it onto the bus tour. Did a full loop of the tour, got off at old Town and wandered around the market. Got back on then went back to Coronado looking for lunch, got off at the first stop (the ferry landing) and decided not much there so headed to the Orange Avenue stop, which is where the others ran into them. After lunch, took a leisurely stroll on the beach and discovered the sea was a bit chilly. Then got back on the bus to head back to the city, the same bus the others boarded at Balboa park.
In the evening, went to Baja Fresh for Fish Tacos, as San Diego was the birth place of the Baja chain. Then back to the hotel to book and plan LA.
The gang decided to check out the Sheriff museum which provided for some photo opportunities. There was an unlocked sheriff car in the courtyard, Luke went into the back seat and closed the door, not realising there wouldn’t be any handles inside to get back out! We looked around the museum, and did some more posing on a police motorcycle before battling school children and deciding to leave.
Hopping back on the bus, we continued on the route past the harbour but got off at the Seaport village, which had more shops and restaurants. After a short stay, got back on to check out Coronado, via the gaslamp quarter, and the Petco baseball stadium, and Dole Bananas. We checked out both stops in Coronado, the Ferry landing (more shops and restaurants) and Orange Avenue, which had a beach (4th best in the USA) and a fancy looking hotel. Whilst getting lunch in a bagel shop, we ran into Charis and Rowena. After lunching together, we went on to Balboa Park, which is known as the ‘Smithsonian of the West’ due to the multiple museums there (though they aren’t free like in Washington.) Went on a tram trip as it was free to see a little bit more of the park and then just wandered up and down the paths for a bit and saw army cadets in training. We went into Zoah’s garden and Jamie climbed a tree. After this, headed back to Little Italy, on the same bus as Charis and Rowena in the end.
Charis and Rowena overslept in the morning, found a muffin and coffee for breakfast and brought stamps and a Citibank, before making it onto the bus tour. Did a full loop of the tour, got off at old Town and wandered around the market. Got back on then went back to Coronado looking for lunch, got off at the first stop (the ferry landing) and decided not much there so headed to the Orange Avenue stop, which is where the others ran into them. After lunch, took a leisurely stroll on the beach and discovered the sea was a bit chilly. Then got back on the bus to head back to the city, the same bus the others boarded at Balboa park.
In the evening, went to Baja Fresh for Fish Tacos, as San Diego was the birth place of the Baja chain. Then back to the hotel to book and plan LA.
Day 19 - Las Vegas to San Diego
After breakfast was eaten and bags were packed, headed out of Las Vegas at 11am. Uneventful drive really. Beverley had another encounter with border control as we entered into California. Stopped for lunch at Carl’s Jnrs after eventually making it off a busy highway. Beverley and Charis sampled the Teriyaki burger...basically a burger with sauce and a pineapple, it was tasty. Charis as always gave us an unintended tour of San Diego upon entry by being in a lane that turned into an exit only lane.
After arriving and finding only one reservation instead of two...when in fact for that hotel we needed 3 rooms...we eventually got to the rooms. We walked down to the Gaslamp Quarter for dinner. Lots of restaurants on the street, we were drawn into one with the offer of two free desserts. We had an Italian meal in the restaurant called Asti Ristorante, the two free desserts were Tiramisu. Beverley had a Canolli and Rowena had a Chocolate Cake with melting middle. Then back to the hotel to sleep.
After arriving and finding only one reservation instead of two...when in fact for that hotel we needed 3 rooms...we eventually got to the rooms. We walked down to the Gaslamp Quarter for dinner. Lots of restaurants on the street, we were drawn into one with the offer of two free desserts. We had an Italian meal in the restaurant called Asti Ristorante, the two free desserts were Tiramisu. Beverley had a Canolli and Rowena had a Chocolate Cake with melting middle. Then back to the hotel to sleep.
Day 18 - Las Vegas
Beverley and Jamie got up for Le Village buffet breakfast in Paris (though Beverley was still full from the night before.) After Jamie gorged on food, went back to the room and collected a Luke to head to the swimming pool. Luke decided to leave soon after (see below for his tale.) B& J, after chilling by the pool and then in the pool for a bit, went for a wander around Las Vegas, they headed south, to New York New York and had a coffee in ‘Greenwich’ after this a trip to Excalibur, MGM Grand and a few others along the way. They finally ended up watching fountain show from the Bellagio around 5:30 before meeting the others in the hotel at 6pm.
Charis and Ro had a lie in, the beds were very comfortable. They were the lucky ones and got queen beds to themselves, as opposed to having to share due to our rotational schedule. After attempting to get into the same Buffet B&J went to, they opted for the Boulingerie instead, Charis having a waffle and Ro a pain au chocolate. Showering and then heading out to wander the strip, they checked out the Flamingos, which they had failed to see the night before. They weaved their way to Treasure Island, Venetian and a mall at the end of the strip. Headed back to hotel for the pool for a couple of hours, topping up their tan, until meeting the rest at 6 and checking out the weather channel.
Kishan went in search of breakfast at Serendipity, a New York favourite, he failed however due to sleeping in late. Instead he opted for Crepes at La Creperie. He then ran into Luke as he headed to the elevator. Between leaving Beverley and Jamie at the pool and running into Kishan, Luke had spent time just running around the hotel. Luke and Kishan then headed to MGM to see the Lions, to Tropicana and had a game of Roulette, to the Luxor, Excalibur and New York New York and then to the Bellagio. Back to hotel to the pool where met Charis and Rowena, after a while, Kishan, Charis and Rowena retired back to the hotel room whilst Luke went in the hot tub. Before meeting everyone at 6.
In the evening, all went for a buffet meal in Le Village in the hotel. After this headed up the Eiffel Tower for a view of Las Vegas from above, where we also saw Bellagio’s water fountain show, this was very pretty. After this we walked up to view the pirate show at Treasure Island, which was very painful to watch due to the poor acting, soundtrack of the ‘talking’, lack of story line, scantily clad women and dopey men. After this Ro and Charis headed off to see the Luxor, Luke, Kishan, Beverley and Jamie went to look at the Venetian, but the Gondolas were no longer running to get the full impression. After Luke and Kishan headed to the Mirage, whilst Beverley and Jamie went in search for computerised Roulette machine (they failed, but Jamie did manage to win $10 on the table Roulette by placing $10 on black.) Whilst this was going on, Charis and Rowena went on the epic expedition (the whole length of the strip basically) ended up lost in a car park in New York but eventually made it to the Luxor, having satisfied coke and chocolate milk cravings and to bed around 2am.
Joke/Trick of the day – Charis and Ro posted a note under the bedroom door say ‘We’ve won $1000 and have gone shopping’ All of us believed them!! Unfortunately Lady Luck was not on all of our sides this trip – the most lost was $30, the maximum profit was $3- naming no names.
Charis and Ro had a lie in, the beds were very comfortable. They were the lucky ones and got queen beds to themselves, as opposed to having to share due to our rotational schedule. After attempting to get into the same Buffet B&J went to, they opted for the Boulingerie instead, Charis having a waffle and Ro a pain au chocolate. Showering and then heading out to wander the strip, they checked out the Flamingos, which they had failed to see the night before. They weaved their way to Treasure Island, Venetian and a mall at the end of the strip. Headed back to hotel for the pool for a couple of hours, topping up their tan, until meeting the rest at 6 and checking out the weather channel.
Kishan went in search of breakfast at Serendipity, a New York favourite, he failed however due to sleeping in late. Instead he opted for Crepes at La Creperie. He then ran into Luke as he headed to the elevator. Between leaving Beverley and Jamie at the pool and running into Kishan, Luke had spent time just running around the hotel. Luke and Kishan then headed to MGM to see the Lions, to Tropicana and had a game of Roulette, to the Luxor, Excalibur and New York New York and then to the Bellagio. Back to hotel to the pool where met Charis and Rowena, after a while, Kishan, Charis and Rowena retired back to the hotel room whilst Luke went in the hot tub. Before meeting everyone at 6.
In the evening, all went for a buffet meal in Le Village in the hotel. After this headed up the Eiffel Tower for a view of Las Vegas from above, where we also saw Bellagio’s water fountain show, this was very pretty. After this we walked up to view the pirate show at Treasure Island, which was very painful to watch due to the poor acting, soundtrack of the ‘talking’, lack of story line, scantily clad women and dopey men. After this Ro and Charis headed off to see the Luxor, Luke, Kishan, Beverley and Jamie went to look at the Venetian, but the Gondolas were no longer running to get the full impression. After Luke and Kishan headed to the Mirage, whilst Beverley and Jamie went in search for computerised Roulette machine (they failed, but Jamie did manage to win $10 on the table Roulette by placing $10 on black.) Whilst this was going on, Charis and Rowena went on the epic expedition (the whole length of the strip basically) ended up lost in a car park in New York but eventually made it to the Luxor, having satisfied coke and chocolate milk cravings and to bed around 2am.
Joke/Trick of the day – Charis and Ro posted a note under the bedroom door say ‘We’ve won $1000 and have gone shopping’ All of us believed them!! Unfortunately Lady Luck was not on all of our sides this trip – the most lost was $30, the maximum profit was $3- naming no names.
Day 17 - Flagstaff to Las Vegas
Took Route 66!
Rowena did mountainous driving. Beverley dealt with border control for the first time (see day 19). Charis handled the dam (a mile of driving) and Jamie battled Las Vegas streets and the rest of us were thankful for this.
We stopped on the way at
(a) A petrol station...which had a huge route 66 sign and a port-a-potty for a toilet.
(b) The Hoover Dam – It was hot walking over it...but quite impressive. We could also see the arch across the river that has been constructed for a new interstate highway, quite a feat of engineering!
Arriving in Las Vegas, Luke was like a child in a sweet shop, his eyes were everywhere trying to see everything all at the same time. We located the parking for the hotel, the self parking rather than the valet parking (we’re too poor to tip)....little did we know this would make for sweaty work, lugging bags from car to hotel check in along the windy streets of Paris. Abandoning our struggles at the elevators, we left Kishan and Luke with the bags whilst we went to located check-in. After conquering the huge line, we were set to make the voyage to the 12th floor to discover the Grail, amazing beds and rooms where everything worked and the free soaps smelt nice.
After chilling for a bit, we gathered our strength to go and find dinner. After Jamie led us North instead of South, we stopped by Bill’s Casino for 99 cents Margaritas, and brought some ‘one dollar water, one dollar water, one dollar water’ On this journey, we also found the seedier side of Vegas....at least a dozen men and women (but mostly men) or more handing out/flicking ‘business cards’ of ‘Girls, girls, girls Direct to you in 20 minutes’
We eventually made it to the Monte Carlo’s Dinner Buffet. We all stuffed ourselves, Beverley more than the others as she needed to return to the hotel for a lie down. The rest headed to gamble, via Flamingo to see the flamingo’s but couldn’t find them, eventually ending up in O’Sheas where Beverley later joined them. She arrived to Jamie having broken a Machine and pathetically waiting for it to give him his 94 cents back. We then wandered on to Caesars, where we were disappointed by the lack of Penny machines! But Charis was happy to win money but not so happy to lose it again.
After this, headed back to Paris, our hotel and gambled a bit more before heading up to our comfy beds and a good night sleep.
Rowena did mountainous driving. Beverley dealt with border control for the first time (see day 19). Charis handled the dam (a mile of driving) and Jamie battled Las Vegas streets and the rest of us were thankful for this.
We stopped on the way at
(a) A petrol station...which had a huge route 66 sign and a port-a-potty for a toilet.
(b) The Hoover Dam – It was hot walking over it...but quite impressive. We could also see the arch across the river that has been constructed for a new interstate highway, quite a feat of engineering!
Arriving in Las Vegas, Luke was like a child in a sweet shop, his eyes were everywhere trying to see everything all at the same time. We located the parking for the hotel, the self parking rather than the valet parking (we’re too poor to tip)....little did we know this would make for sweaty work, lugging bags from car to hotel check in along the windy streets of Paris. Abandoning our struggles at the elevators, we left Kishan and Luke with the bags whilst we went to located check-in. After conquering the huge line, we were set to make the voyage to the 12th floor to discover the Grail, amazing beds and rooms where everything worked and the free soaps smelt nice.
After chilling for a bit, we gathered our strength to go and find dinner. After Jamie led us North instead of South, we stopped by Bill’s Casino for 99 cents Margaritas, and brought some ‘one dollar water, one dollar water, one dollar water’ On this journey, we also found the seedier side of Vegas....at least a dozen men and women (but mostly men) or more handing out/flicking ‘business cards’ of ‘Girls, girls, girls Direct to you in 20 minutes’
We eventually made it to the Monte Carlo’s Dinner Buffet. We all stuffed ourselves, Beverley more than the others as she needed to return to the hotel for a lie down. The rest headed to gamble, via Flamingo to see the flamingo’s but couldn’t find them, eventually ending up in O’Sheas where Beverley later joined them. She arrived to Jamie having broken a Machine and pathetically waiting for it to give him his 94 cents back. We then wandered on to Caesars, where we were disappointed by the lack of Penny machines! But Charis was happy to win money but not so happy to lose it again.
After this, headed back to Paris, our hotel and gambled a bit more before heading up to our comfy beds and a good night sleep.
Day 16 - Grand Canyon
Left soon after 9:30 Arrived at the Grand Canyon around 11:30am. It was national park day and so entry was free (and we like free) After finding parking, we started with the photo taking opportunities of the great hole in the ground full of rocks. It was certainly impressive. We visited the Visitor Centre and then had a quick lunch in Market Plaza.
Beverley then went off for a walking tour with a Ranger starting at 2:30pm. The ranger told her some of the history of the area including how the trees defined whether people lived there or not. After this she attempted to catch up with the others, jumping on the shuttle bus and stopping at Hopi point, Hermits Rest and Mohave point. She was amazed by how quiet it was in places.
The rest hopped on a free shuttle bus up and down the canyon after lunch stopping at Hermits Rest, Hopi and Monument Creek Vista.
Jamie left the others to try and catch up Beverley, proving difficult when modern technology fails in the wilderness...no phone signal and no prearranged meeting point and so he just wandered about.
Having posted people at various points to track Beverley down, she was located coming off a bus at 5:30 by the visitors centre.
We left the Grand Canyon around 6 and proceeded back to Flagstaff via a brief stint on Route 66. Arriving back in Flagstaff, the next mission was dinner...after driving in circles, we decided upon Chilli’s. Huge line out the door so opted for ‘Chilli’s To Go’ Back at the motel, we ate our food and finished off the Margarita mix before heading to bed.
Beverley then went off for a walking tour with a Ranger starting at 2:30pm. The ranger told her some of the history of the area including how the trees defined whether people lived there or not. After this she attempted to catch up with the others, jumping on the shuttle bus and stopping at Hopi point, Hermits Rest and Mohave point. She was amazed by how quiet it was in places.
The rest hopped on a free shuttle bus up and down the canyon after lunch stopping at Hermits Rest, Hopi and Monument Creek Vista.
Jamie left the others to try and catch up Beverley, proving difficult when modern technology fails in the wilderness...no phone signal and no prearranged meeting point and so he just wandered about.
Having posted people at various points to track Beverley down, she was located coming off a bus at 5:30 by the visitors centre.
We left the Grand Canyon around 6 and proceeded back to Flagstaff via a brief stint on Route 66. Arriving back in Flagstaff, the next mission was dinner...after driving in circles, we decided upon Chilli’s. Huge line out the door so opted for ‘Chilli’s To Go’ Back at the motel, we ate our food and finished off the Margarita mix before heading to bed.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Day 15 - Phoenix to Flagstaff
Drove from phoenix to flagstaff with a few stops on the way,
Visited Montezuma castle, a stone house/castle in some rocks which is a national monument.
After this we drove on and saw the red rocks and Sedona
Bought cow boy hats x 3 + 1 gift
Had a tasty Indian dinner across from the hotel
Then went to Walmart and got a bottle of margarita mix to celebrate half way mark and help the writing of these updates to the blog flow.
Everyone believes Beverley should get a hat.
We are still all alive and well, and looking forward to the next half of our trip - Grand Canyon tomorrow, Las Vegas, California and then onto Seattle.
Visited Montezuma castle, a stone house/castle in some rocks which is a national monument.
After this we drove on and saw the red rocks and Sedona
Bought cow boy hats x 3 + 1 gift
Had a tasty Indian dinner across from the hotel
Then went to Walmart and got a bottle of margarita mix to celebrate half way mark and help the writing of these updates to the blog flow.
Everyone believes Beverley should get a hat.
We are still all alive and well, and looking forward to the next half of our trip - Grand Canyon tomorrow, Las Vegas, California and then onto Seattle.
Day 14
Ermmm, got up and left at 9.30 for a cowboy inspired day
Went to old tucson film studio along a roller coaster road
At the studio saw gun fights, can can show, cow girl show, stage carriage ride, train ride, museum, films tour, tucson studios has been used in 300 films in the past 70 years, including john wayne films, little house on the prairie, tombstone, the three amigos and the list goes on
Charis made her acting debut, with her second encounter with a tambourine. This time she got slightly more a wet, as the second unsuspecting audience member shoot at a barrel which squirted water at her. She was rewarded with some magic elixir, aka root beer.
Finished up around 4 oclock and headed to raw hide for more cowboys. Beverley had her baptism of mountains and lycra as she would not, and could not, over take some bikers much to the chargrin to the ones behind her.
Bucking bronco. Kishan, went on but instead of being bucked decided to do an elegant dismount.
After a round of steaks, on to a motel near phoenix
Ermmm, got up and left at 9.30 for a cowboy inspired day
Went to old tucson film studio along a roller coaster road
At the studio saw gun fights, can can show, cow girl show, stage carriage ride, train ride, museum, films tour, tucson studios has been used in 300 films in the past 70 years, including john wayne films, little house on the prairie, tombstone, the three amigos and the list goes on
Charis made her acting debut, with her second encounter with a tambourine. This time she got slightly more a wet, as the second unsuspecting audience member shoot at a barrel which squirted water at her. She was rewarded with some magic elixir, aka root beer.
Finished up around 4 oclock and headed to raw hide for more cowboys. Beverley had her baptism of mountains and lycra as she would not, and could not, over take some bikers much to the chargrin to the ones behind her.
Bucking bronco. Kishan, went on but instead of being bucked decided to do an elegant dismount.
After a round of steaks, on to a motel near phoenix
Day 13 - Santa Teresa to Tucson
Woke up had a nice breakfast, more amazing food, and set off at 1 pm having dicussed politics
Had an uneventful journey onwards. Stopped at texas canyon where there were lots of impressive looking rocks.
Had banana bread and cookies thanks to our hosts.
Arrived in tucson, drove into the city for dinner, found the area that we drove into as dead as a door knob. Had dinner at grimaldis pizzeria, having tried to get away from New York unsuccessful. Weird service from the waitress...taking order from one, then running across room to computer to enter, as oppose to just writing on a notepad.
And then went home to bed.
Had an uneventful journey onwards. Stopped at texas canyon where there were lots of impressive looking rocks.
Had banana bread and cookies thanks to our hosts.
Arrived in tucson, drove into the city for dinner, found the area that we drove into as dead as a door knob. Had dinner at grimaldis pizzeria, having tried to get away from New York unsuccessful. Weird service from the waitress...taking order from one, then running across room to computer to enter, as oppose to just writing on a notepad.
And then went home to bed.
Day 12 - Journey to Santa Teresa
Woke up to pouring rain, Left at 8am
Jamie did very well, and only pulled over once not being able to see a thing at 40mph.
It was the longest driving day yet
Went into mountain time, saw lots of mountain and deserts for the first time, yes we did
We experienced cross winds, which caused Rowena to have muscle work. Some did not believe in said cross winds. She should not have had so much ribs the night before
Dairy queen for lunch, surprised by the non dairy selection, sweet tooth patel had a brownie explosion on his plate and then he ate it. We heard rowenas hand drier, i heard you coming and then you were i heard the hand drier. Lucky luke had a cookie jar blizzard, the rest of us had various burgers and sandwiches. What would Beverley be bendy Beverley, maybe it is ironic. Did we have this discussion when we went to the cabin? Rowena 'are you sure it wasn’t an ann summer party.'
Visit to walmart for the first time for some of us
We arrived to donna and carey soon after 5, ate lots of food, drank beer margarita, had a dip in the cold pool, and the hot tub, where we let off some steam. And had more delicious food. We were very apreciative of their food and hospitality. World's best Enchiladas perhaps?
We could see el paso taxas from one corner of the garden and the mexico border from the other.
We had yum fest, (that sounds like some pagan festival.) And on the note i am going to get ready to get to bed!
Jamie did very well, and only pulled over once not being able to see a thing at 40mph.
It was the longest driving day yet
Went into mountain time, saw lots of mountain and deserts for the first time, yes we did
We experienced cross winds, which caused Rowena to have muscle work. Some did not believe in said cross winds. She should not have had so much ribs the night before
Dairy queen for lunch, surprised by the non dairy selection, sweet tooth patel had a brownie explosion on his plate and then he ate it. We heard rowenas hand drier, i heard you coming and then you were i heard the hand drier. Lucky luke had a cookie jar blizzard, the rest of us had various burgers and sandwiches. What would Beverley be bendy Beverley, maybe it is ironic. Did we have this discussion when we went to the cabin? Rowena 'are you sure it wasn’t an ann summer party.'
Visit to walmart for the first time for some of us
We arrived to donna and carey soon after 5, ate lots of food, drank beer margarita, had a dip in the cold pool, and the hot tub, where we let off some steam. And had more delicious food. We were very apreciative of their food and hospitality. World's best Enchiladas perhaps?
We could see el paso taxas from one corner of the garden and the mexico border from the other.
We had yum fest, (that sounds like some pagan festival.) And on the note i am going to get ready to get to bed!
Day 11 - San Antonio
San Antonio
Rowena said that it was a bloody hot today
We took a stroll down the River walk – beautiful, hot - very surprising to find such a beautiful river and banks in the middle of the city
We decided to take the River taxi, it was too hot to walk so we got the boat, met people from Atlanta who advised us to go to Sedona, which is the name of our car so was easy for us to remember
Lunch was eaten in a cafe that was cheap, don’t remember what the cafe was called
After this we wondered around the Alamo, using the audio tours, it was hot
Bus tour, the last one of the day, is what we did next, where we saw the missions in the area, tower of Americas, Texan institute of cultures, house that belonged to someone, the king Williams area with all the posh houses
Then back to the hotel to swim and cool of before showering and heading out to dinner. Luke sunbathed topless
Dinner was in the barbecue place, county line barbecue
Jamie ate a cow
Beverly ate a salmon
Rowena and Charis had half a pig each
Luke had the biggest jacket potatoe in the world ever, the size of a coconut, with chicken kabob
and Kishan OD-ed on vegetables
The beer drinkers tried the local beer which was the lone star, Beverley had white zinfandel and Kishan had a vanilla shake
It was nice to not to stay in the ghetto and nice to have a dose of history
Quoke of the day
Jamie offered a hand covered in Barbie sauce and said to Beverley “nice to meet you nice” and she replied “don't you mean nice to MEAT you”. It expanded the next day. Stomach, babies, baby seat, squeeze it in the middle, cant go around squeezing babies in the middle you can get arrested for that
Oh my stomach--from laughing so much
Rowena said that it was a bloody hot today
We took a stroll down the River walk – beautiful, hot - very surprising to find such a beautiful river and banks in the middle of the city
We decided to take the River taxi, it was too hot to walk so we got the boat, met people from Atlanta who advised us to go to Sedona, which is the name of our car so was easy for us to remember
Lunch was eaten in a cafe that was cheap, don’t remember what the cafe was called
After this we wondered around the Alamo, using the audio tours, it was hot
Bus tour, the last one of the day, is what we did next, where we saw the missions in the area, tower of Americas, Texan institute of cultures, house that belonged to someone, the king Williams area with all the posh houses
Then back to the hotel to swim and cool of before showering and heading out to dinner. Luke sunbathed topless
Dinner was in the barbecue place, county line barbecue
Jamie ate a cow
Beverly ate a salmon
Rowena and Charis had half a pig each
Luke had the biggest jacket potatoe in the world ever, the size of a coconut, with chicken kabob
and Kishan OD-ed on vegetables
The beer drinkers tried the local beer which was the lone star, Beverley had white zinfandel and Kishan had a vanilla shake
It was nice to not to stay in the ghetto and nice to have a dose of history
Quoke of the day
Jamie offered a hand covered in Barbie sauce and said to Beverley “nice to meet you nice” and she replied “don't you mean nice to MEAT you”. It expanded the next day. Stomach, babies, baby seat, squeeze it in the middle, cant go around squeezing babies in the middle you can get arrested for that
Oh my stomach--from laughing so much
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Day 10 - Dallas to San Antonio
Those of us who stayed at the Radisson awoke after a pleasant night’s sleep on the airbed. After the not-so-nice coffee that we had in the Hotel room the night before we decided Starbucks was in order. Kishan was the first up so he went to get the coffee. After our coffee, we picked Jamie and Beverley up from Misty’s house a little later than planned. There began our journey to San Antonio.
For breakfast along the way we stopped at IHOP. We were all very hungry. Amongst the orders we placed we pancakes, eggs and sausages. Our food seemed to take a long time to come by which time some of us had started to bang our knives and forks against the table. However, it was well worth the wait and we will be stopping at IHOP again along the way I’m sure.
The traffic was fairly quiet along the I35, except for when we went through Austin. We discussed stopping but decided there was not much there to see and we would prefer more time in San Antonio. As we got close to our destination, there was a congestion of traffic and we seemed to be crawling. Rowena was in the foetal position by this point and said she wouldn’t mind going this pace. There were many cars passing us in the left hand lane and cutting in further along the route. We anticipated whether those we let in would wave and be courteous. We were surprised when they did, and concluded they must have been foreign.
The weather was hot when we arrived, at around 94 degrees F. We were staying at Motel 6 downtown. The city is fairly walkable and the motel was in a convenient location. We had heard there was a Jazz festival at Travis Park so we walked there from the motel and checked it out. The heat got the best of us so we headed back to have a dip in the pool and some long needed washing.
The pool was pleasant giving the climate, if a little cold at first. We decided to order a Dominos that we had seen on our walk into the city. We ordered three large pizzas. One BBQ Chicken, one had peppers and the other Pepperoni. After our feast, we decided to call it a night.
For breakfast along the way we stopped at IHOP. We were all very hungry. Amongst the orders we placed we pancakes, eggs and sausages. Our food seemed to take a long time to come by which time some of us had started to bang our knives and forks against the table. However, it was well worth the wait and we will be stopping at IHOP again along the way I’m sure.
The traffic was fairly quiet along the I35, except for when we went through Austin. We discussed stopping but decided there was not much there to see and we would prefer more time in San Antonio. As we got close to our destination, there was a congestion of traffic and we seemed to be crawling. Rowena was in the foetal position by this point and said she wouldn’t mind going this pace. There were many cars passing us in the left hand lane and cutting in further along the route. We anticipated whether those we let in would wave and be courteous. We were surprised when they did, and concluded they must have been foreign.
The weather was hot when we arrived, at around 94 degrees F. We were staying at Motel 6 downtown. The city is fairly walkable and the motel was in a convenient location. We had heard there was a Jazz festival at Travis Park so we walked there from the motel and checked it out. The heat got the best of us so we headed back to have a dip in the pool and some long needed washing.
The pool was pleasant giving the climate, if a little cold at first. We decided to order a Dominos that we had seen on our walk into the city. We ordered three large pizzas. One BBQ Chicken, one had peppers and the other Pepperoni. After our feast, we decided to call it a night.
Day 9 - In Dallas
Today was our first full day in Dallas. A good night’s sleep for those of us in the hotel, and a good night’s sleep for the 2 who slept at Misty’s (or so they say!). After meeting J and B at Mocking bird Lane Dart station, we started our Journey to The Sixth Floor Museum.
Mexican seems to be the theme for our Dallas adventure and so it was decided that we would breakfast at La Fiesta Fruits, a Mexican establishment. It was the healthiest breakfast we would have eaten since the Journey into the great expanse that is America began. Fruits, Vegetables, wheat, came in the form of Gorditas, Tortillas, Burritos and smoothies.
On our way to the Museum we walked past the beginnings of some street fair, which we would later notice was a pirate themed fair.
The Sixth Floor Museum is a tribute to President John Fitzgerald Kennedy. It is in the building and floor from where his assassin shot him. We entered the museum on the first floor. After paying for our tickets we headed for the elevators, and guess what floor number we pressed...it was of course number 6. We learnt about his family, presidency, death and legacy. It would surprise you to know that there was an exhibit on the seventh floor on the life of the photographer who took the picture of him getting shoot and the events that took place after.
We walked on the grassy knoll and took pictures. We saw a red stoned castle like building that housed the history of Texas or Dallas museum I (Kishan) can’t remember which, but it had a striking resemblance to the Harry Potter castle!
We walked on to the JFK monument and took pictures. Then went cowboy and cow girl hat shopping. Walked to Pioneer Plaza, to go and see the Cowboy Monument and took pictures. We saw a woman wearing a gown with men dressed in naval uniform, having her photo taken there. At first glance you could be mistaken they were taking some wedding photos, but there was no groom. It was in fact a girl and boys posing for a sweet sixteen photo.
We went to a steakhouse for dinner called Texas land and cattle. We all ate till the buttons to our shorts burst from the pressure of our bulging stomachs!
After heading back to the hotel we made our way to the Rodeo. Saw cowboys and girls and some bulls and horses too. One thing we will all remembering is seeing a 4 year old girl racing around 3 barrels placed in the shape of a triangle and getting a better time than most of the adults who did the same.
Tune in for the next instalment....
Mexican seems to be the theme for our Dallas adventure and so it was decided that we would breakfast at La Fiesta Fruits, a Mexican establishment. It was the healthiest breakfast we would have eaten since the Journey into the great expanse that is America began. Fruits, Vegetables, wheat, came in the form of Gorditas, Tortillas, Burritos and smoothies.
On our way to the Museum we walked past the beginnings of some street fair, which we would later notice was a pirate themed fair.
The Sixth Floor Museum is a tribute to President John Fitzgerald Kennedy. It is in the building and floor from where his assassin shot him. We entered the museum on the first floor. After paying for our tickets we headed for the elevators, and guess what floor number we pressed...it was of course number 6. We learnt about his family, presidency, death and legacy. It would surprise you to know that there was an exhibit on the seventh floor on the life of the photographer who took the picture of him getting shoot and the events that took place after.
We walked on the grassy knoll and took pictures. We saw a red stoned castle like building that housed the history of Texas or Dallas museum I (Kishan) can’t remember which, but it had a striking resemblance to the Harry Potter castle!
We walked on to the JFK monument and took pictures. Then went cowboy and cow girl hat shopping. Walked to Pioneer Plaza, to go and see the Cowboy Monument and took pictures. We saw a woman wearing a gown with men dressed in naval uniform, having her photo taken there. At first glance you could be mistaken they were taking some wedding photos, but there was no groom. It was in fact a girl and boys posing for a sweet sixteen photo.
We went to a steakhouse for dinner called Texas land and cattle. We all ate till the buttons to our shorts burst from the pressure of our bulging stomachs!
After heading back to the hotel we made our way to the Rodeo. Saw cowboys and girls and some bulls and horses too. One thing we will all remembering is seeing a 4 year old girl racing around 3 barrels placed in the shape of a triangle and getting a better time than most of the adults who did the same.
Tune in for the next instalment....
Day 8 - New Orleans to Dallas
Day 8
The sun filtered through the curtains and we were up. After our “Gourmet” continental breakfast we headed to the car with our bags in hand. We had a long day ahead, 520 miles ahead of us! Eight on the dot we left; Dallas here we come. The hands of fate had already chosen Jamie to Drive, and so it was up to him to lead us out of the magical city of New Orleans!
Rowena drove for 2 ½ hours and she had her foot on the accelerator for that time, only to find out later that she could have used the cruise control! (it maintains the speed you initiate it at until you brake or accelerate more) In her own words she was flipping around like Long John Silver when she got out of the car.
As we saw the approaching skyline and it skyscrapers, we knew that Dallas was upon us. In some way it was reminiscent of New York having not seen a city skyline in what seemed like a life time. Unfortunately for Charis, she was driving the last leg of the journey and so had to navigate through a nemesis of a freeway, by crossing six lanes within the space of a few minutes.
Once we paid our toll to enter Dallas, we went in search of Misty’s (Beverley’s friend) apartment. We were lost. The Tom Tom would not accept the address we were given by Misty, so we had to call her for directions. On our way we happened to see amazing houses, and we drove up Beverly Drive (without the ley at the end). It seems her name is popping up everywhere; first the Coke product and now a street!
By the time we arrived at Misty’s the sun was setting. Jamie and Beverley were going to stay there while the rest of us were going to stay at the Radison, a hotel. We met Misty and she invited us for refreshments in her apartment, before she was to guide us to our hotel, as the Tom Tom would not accept the address we had.
At the hotel, to our delight (Jamie and Beverley’s chagrin) we had air beds in the room which we could adjust to make it softer or firmer.
Misty works for the Dart, the transport system in Dallas, and she was able to get us some travel passes. She, as our guide, led us to a Mexican restaurant by the name of Monica’s. On the way, we were harassed by a disabled man and to Misty’s credit she as our host she saved us, and we learnt a thing or two on how to handle such a situation.
Trying to save money (being thrifty) on ATM fees, we stopped in a Seven Eleven convenience store, which offers a Citi ATM machine in most of their stores.
At Monica’s we all enjoyed our complimentary “tortilla chips” with endless salsa, that quenched our hunger before our entree’s were even served! Our entrees could only be described as gastronomically delightful! They had a live Mexican band. We enjoyed $3 Lime Margaritas, and joined a conga line in which half way through a guy poured fiery tequila down our throats!
Exhausted from an eventful day of driving, we all retired for the night. On to the next day.....
The sun filtered through the curtains and we were up. After our “Gourmet” continental breakfast we headed to the car with our bags in hand. We had a long day ahead, 520 miles ahead of us! Eight on the dot we left; Dallas here we come. The hands of fate had already chosen Jamie to Drive, and so it was up to him to lead us out of the magical city of New Orleans!
Rowena drove for 2 ½ hours and she had her foot on the accelerator for that time, only to find out later that she could have used the cruise control! (it maintains the speed you initiate it at until you brake or accelerate more) In her own words she was flipping around like Long John Silver when she got out of the car.
As we saw the approaching skyline and it skyscrapers, we knew that Dallas was upon us. In some way it was reminiscent of New York having not seen a city skyline in what seemed like a life time. Unfortunately for Charis, she was driving the last leg of the journey and so had to navigate through a nemesis of a freeway, by crossing six lanes within the space of a few minutes.
Once we paid our toll to enter Dallas, we went in search of Misty’s (Beverley’s friend) apartment. We were lost. The Tom Tom would not accept the address we were given by Misty, so we had to call her for directions. On our way we happened to see amazing houses, and we drove up Beverly Drive (without the ley at the end). It seems her name is popping up everywhere; first the Coke product and now a street!
By the time we arrived at Misty’s the sun was setting. Jamie and Beverley were going to stay there while the rest of us were going to stay at the Radison, a hotel. We met Misty and she invited us for refreshments in her apartment, before she was to guide us to our hotel, as the Tom Tom would not accept the address we had.
At the hotel, to our delight (Jamie and Beverley’s chagrin) we had air beds in the room which we could adjust to make it softer or firmer.
Misty works for the Dart, the transport system in Dallas, and she was able to get us some travel passes. She, as our guide, led us to a Mexican restaurant by the name of Monica’s. On the way, we were harassed by a disabled man and to Misty’s credit she as our host she saved us, and we learnt a thing or two on how to handle such a situation.
Trying to save money (being thrifty) on ATM fees, we stopped in a Seven Eleven convenience store, which offers a Citi ATM machine in most of their stores.
At Monica’s we all enjoyed our complimentary “tortilla chips” with endless salsa, that quenched our hunger before our entree’s were even served! Our entrees could only be described as gastronomically delightful! They had a live Mexican band. We enjoyed $3 Lime Margaritas, and joined a conga line in which half way through a guy poured fiery tequila down our throats!
Exhausted from an eventful day of driving, we all retired for the night. On to the next day.....
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Day 7 - New Orleans
Day 7
After waking, we headed down to the lobby for a continental breakfast. Waffles with syrup again, but this time doughnuts and bagels were also available. We had learnt prior to coming to New Orleans that we must take a ride on their streetcars. The system is the oldest in the World. We took a ride to St. Charles and back again. We observed the colonial/plantation mansions en route.
After we arrived back at Canal Street, we decided we would now find Cafe Du Monde. We had been told that people won’t believe you have been to New Orleans unless you go to Bourbon Street and Cafe Du Monde. Locals say it is the best coffee in the city and it is cut with chicory, a root vegetable. During the War, they had difficulty in getting hold of enough coffee to satisfy demand. To make up for this they cut coffee with chicory, which has a similar taste. It has become such a tradition that it’s almost impossible to find regular coffee in the city today.
Chicory becomes bitter after 10 minutes of being brewed therefore it has to be consumed quickly. Due to the bitterness, the coffee is mixed half with milk. Charis, Rowena and Luke had Frozen Cafe au lait, Jamie had a regular Cafe au lait and Kishan and Beverley had chocolate milk. We had beignets (pronounced ben-yah) with the coffee, freshly baked French doughnuts with icing powder. Yum. All of the waitresses were Asian, which we found surprising as we had not noticed a high Asian population anywhere else in the city.
We then took a Walking Tour of the French Quarter mid afternoon, learning the History of the area and local points of interest. Along the way, we passed Brad and Angelina’s holiday home and Nicholas Cage’s house which is meant to be the most haunted in the area. As the tour guide was saying this, we heard noises inside and realised someone was in. We learnt that most of the French Quarter was saved from Hurricane Katrina.
The tour guide told us she likes to eat Muffuletta at the local Central Grocery Company. Five of us shared one between us. It is a large sandwich packed with many meats, cheeses and olives. We had another stroll through the French Market and decided to take the free ferry over the Mississippi river. It was pleasant, but very hot. After the voyage we went back to the Hotel to freshen up.
The tour guide also told us she liked the Cajun/Creole food at ‘Gumbo Shop’. We all either had chicken or seafood Gumbo, or Shrimp Creole. The service in New Orleans was generally not good. We decided to try out a famous bar on Bourbon Street, Pat O’ Brien’s (or Patty-o’s). There was live music by the Gas House Guerrillaz but the crowd was older and substantially more inebriated than we were. On the way home, we stopped off at CVS Pharmacy where the Security Guard told us Nicholas Cage had been in there a few hours prior. The guard also told us he has seen Brad Pitt in there another time. After a long day, we retired to the Clarion.
After waking, we headed down to the lobby for a continental breakfast. Waffles with syrup again, but this time doughnuts and bagels were also available. We had learnt prior to coming to New Orleans that we must take a ride on their streetcars. The system is the oldest in the World. We took a ride to St. Charles and back again. We observed the colonial/plantation mansions en route.
After we arrived back at Canal Street, we decided we would now find Cafe Du Monde. We had been told that people won’t believe you have been to New Orleans unless you go to Bourbon Street and Cafe Du Monde. Locals say it is the best coffee in the city and it is cut with chicory, a root vegetable. During the War, they had difficulty in getting hold of enough coffee to satisfy demand. To make up for this they cut coffee with chicory, which has a similar taste. It has become such a tradition that it’s almost impossible to find regular coffee in the city today.
Chicory becomes bitter after 10 minutes of being brewed therefore it has to be consumed quickly. Due to the bitterness, the coffee is mixed half with milk. Charis, Rowena and Luke had Frozen Cafe au lait, Jamie had a regular Cafe au lait and Kishan and Beverley had chocolate milk. We had beignets (pronounced ben-yah) with the coffee, freshly baked French doughnuts with icing powder. Yum. All of the waitresses were Asian, which we found surprising as we had not noticed a high Asian population anywhere else in the city.
We then took a Walking Tour of the French Quarter mid afternoon, learning the History of the area and local points of interest. Along the way, we passed Brad and Angelina’s holiday home and Nicholas Cage’s house which is meant to be the most haunted in the area. As the tour guide was saying this, we heard noises inside and realised someone was in. We learnt that most of the French Quarter was saved from Hurricane Katrina.
The tour guide told us she likes to eat Muffuletta at the local Central Grocery Company. Five of us shared one between us. It is a large sandwich packed with many meats, cheeses and olives. We had another stroll through the French Market and decided to take the free ferry over the Mississippi river. It was pleasant, but very hot. After the voyage we went back to the Hotel to freshen up.
The tour guide also told us she liked the Cajun/Creole food at ‘Gumbo Shop’. We all either had chicken or seafood Gumbo, or Shrimp Creole. The service in New Orleans was generally not good. We decided to try out a famous bar on Bourbon Street, Pat O’ Brien’s (or Patty-o’s). There was live music by the Gas House Guerrillaz but the crowd was older and substantially more inebriated than we were. On the way home, we stopped off at CVS Pharmacy where the Security Guard told us Nicholas Cage had been in there a few hours prior. The guard also told us he has seen Brad Pitt in there another time. After a long day, we retired to the Clarion.
Day 6 - Memphis to New Orleans
Day 6
Apologies for the delay in posting, we are all still alive.
We left early from Memphis in the morning for the drive to New Orleans. We drove from Tennessee, through Mississippi and Louisiana. On the way we stopped off at Cracker Barrel for lunch. We had seen it advertised on a billboard whilst on the freeway. Home style Country cooking sounded very appetising. It was the healthiest we had been on the road trip so far. Everyone was very concerned when Charis ordered beans. We were going to try a coca-cola brownie however we decided to maintain our healthy eating and opted not to try it.
The drivers in Mississippi were sloppier than in other states we had been in so far, there was a lot of undertaking. As we began to get closer to New Orleans, we were on what seemed to be the longest bridge, on the I-10. There were a lot of police pulling people over; we concluded that it must be an easy spot to catch people. The bridge was not much higher than water level. We were surrounded by swamp land and hurricane damage was still evident. The trees looked very short sticking out of the water and many of them were dead. As we moved closer towards the City, we noticed how there wasn’t as much of a skyline as what we had seen in other cities, because of the swampy terrain.
We arrived in New Orleans earlier than expected, at around 4. The Hotel was the Clarion on Canal Street. Canal Street was a bit phasing to drive down at first as it is one of the main streets in the city, especially with the streetcars in the middle of the road. The weather was beautiful and the palm trees made us feel we were finally on vacation. The Clarion was the nicest Hotel we had stayed in so far and we managed to utilise our AAA discount. We were concerned when we booked over the phone as the operator told us we could have a room with three double beds in. It was snug, but not overcrowded.
We decided to make the most of the weather and explore the city. We walked down Canal Street to Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. Even though it was the middle of the day, most of the bars were pumping music out and the strip clubs were plentiful. The 3 for 1 offer on alcoholic drinks we had not seen before. There were some tourist stores that had quite colourful merchandise, such as a mens t that had an arrow pointing upwards that said ‘The Man’ and then an arrow pointing downwards that said ‘The Legend’. We stopped at Market Cafe for a cocktail. They had a live jazz band and we listened to a bit of Louis Armstrong et al. whilst drinking cocktails. Rowena, Jamie and Luke had the ‘Hurricane’ cocktail, whilst Kishan, Beverley and Charis opted for other New Orleans specialities.
Feeling refreshed after the cocktails and the set, we walked along the Mississippi river front as the sun was setting and saw the Natchez steamboat going past. Oceana restaurant had been suggested to us so we decided to check it out. Alligator sausage was on the menu so we ordered it and Rowena told the waiter to “make it snappy”. The cuisine was seafood; amongst the list of dishes we tried were Jambalaya, Beans, Shrimp and Catfish. Kishan with the sweet tooth had a Pecan Pie for desert. We saw a sign in the window saying ‘Eat Oysters, Get Lucky’ and the waiter appeared to be very nervous and looked like her wanted to go skiing with his arm movements. He reminded Jamie of Will Ferrell.
After dinner we were exhausted so we went straight back to the luxury of the Hotel room, and were in bed by 10:30. Along the way we saw some men being arrested near out Hotel, the location was excellent as we could walk everywhere, but the last few blocks were a bit sketchy. Our car was safely locked in the car park and we swiftly entered the Hotel.
Apologies for the delay in posting, we are all still alive.
We left early from Memphis in the morning for the drive to New Orleans. We drove from Tennessee, through Mississippi and Louisiana. On the way we stopped off at Cracker Barrel for lunch. We had seen it advertised on a billboard whilst on the freeway. Home style Country cooking sounded very appetising. It was the healthiest we had been on the road trip so far. Everyone was very concerned when Charis ordered beans. We were going to try a coca-cola brownie however we decided to maintain our healthy eating and opted not to try it.
The drivers in Mississippi were sloppier than in other states we had been in so far, there was a lot of undertaking. As we began to get closer to New Orleans, we were on what seemed to be the longest bridge, on the I-10. There were a lot of police pulling people over; we concluded that it must be an easy spot to catch people. The bridge was not much higher than water level. We were surrounded by swamp land and hurricane damage was still evident. The trees looked very short sticking out of the water and many of them were dead. As we moved closer towards the City, we noticed how there wasn’t as much of a skyline as what we had seen in other cities, because of the swampy terrain.
We arrived in New Orleans earlier than expected, at around 4. The Hotel was the Clarion on Canal Street. Canal Street was a bit phasing to drive down at first as it is one of the main streets in the city, especially with the streetcars in the middle of the road. The weather was beautiful and the palm trees made us feel we were finally on vacation. The Clarion was the nicest Hotel we had stayed in so far and we managed to utilise our AAA discount. We were concerned when we booked over the phone as the operator told us we could have a room with three double beds in. It was snug, but not overcrowded.
We decided to make the most of the weather and explore the city. We walked down Canal Street to Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. Even though it was the middle of the day, most of the bars were pumping music out and the strip clubs were plentiful. The 3 for 1 offer on alcoholic drinks we had not seen before. There were some tourist stores that had quite colourful merchandise, such as a mens t that had an arrow pointing upwards that said ‘The Man’ and then an arrow pointing downwards that said ‘The Legend’. We stopped at Market Cafe for a cocktail. They had a live jazz band and we listened to a bit of Louis Armstrong et al. whilst drinking cocktails. Rowena, Jamie and Luke had the ‘Hurricane’ cocktail, whilst Kishan, Beverley and Charis opted for other New Orleans specialities.
Feeling refreshed after the cocktails and the set, we walked along the Mississippi river front as the sun was setting and saw the Natchez steamboat going past. Oceana restaurant had been suggested to us so we decided to check it out. Alligator sausage was on the menu so we ordered it and Rowena told the waiter to “make it snappy”. The cuisine was seafood; amongst the list of dishes we tried were Jambalaya, Beans, Shrimp and Catfish. Kishan with the sweet tooth had a Pecan Pie for desert. We saw a sign in the window saying ‘Eat Oysters, Get Lucky’ and the waiter appeared to be very nervous and looked like her wanted to go skiing with his arm movements. He reminded Jamie of Will Ferrell.
After dinner we were exhausted so we went straight back to the luxury of the Hotel room, and were in bed by 10:30. Along the way we saw some men being arrested near out Hotel, the location was excellent as we could walk everywhere, but the last few blocks were a bit sketchy. Our car was safely locked in the car park and we swiftly entered the Hotel.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Day 5 - Graceland and Memphis
Day 5
We awoke All Shook Up to find that we were actually staying virtually opposite the King himself. After a continental breakfast, we headed over to Graceland. The mansion itself was very understated. It felt very much like a home, even though a few of the rooms were OTT, like the Jungle Room with its green shag pile on the floor and ceiling. Some of the out-buildings were full of Elvis memorabilia; his outfits, gold discs and awards, but all in all it was not overbearing and was a bit like Hard Rock Cafe but with fewer guitars. The grave site was very tasteful and perhaps a little moving.
After Graceland we got a free shuttle bus into Memphis and walked up Beale Street to have lunch in Blues City Cafe. We then went on a Backbeat Tour which involved a bus and an all singing and guitar playing tour guide. Charis played the tambourine and the rest of us had fun with the shakers. We saw many historical sites, such as the place where Martin Luther King was assassinated, Johnny Cash’s house, the place where Elvis had his high school prom, Sun Studios and Stax Records. Before getting our bus back to the hotel, we stopped off for a wee drink at Silky O’Sullivans where there was live jazz band playing. And a wee drink constitutes as a 32 fl oz beer.
Back at the hotel, Charis, Kishan and Rowena went for a swim in the guitar shaped pool and then we all decided that we were too exhausted to go out for dinner so we ordered in Chinese. We then passed out at 10pm after watching Dolly Parton’s Straight Talking, despite having 24 hours of Elvis films available.
A little less conversation, a little more action pleeeeeeeeeeeease!
We awoke All Shook Up to find that we were actually staying virtually opposite the King himself. After a continental breakfast, we headed over to Graceland. The mansion itself was very understated. It felt very much like a home, even though a few of the rooms were OTT, like the Jungle Room with its green shag pile on the floor and ceiling. Some of the out-buildings were full of Elvis memorabilia; his outfits, gold discs and awards, but all in all it was not overbearing and was a bit like Hard Rock Cafe but with fewer guitars. The grave site was very tasteful and perhaps a little moving.
After Graceland we got a free shuttle bus into Memphis and walked up Beale Street to have lunch in Blues City Cafe. We then went on a Backbeat Tour which involved a bus and an all singing and guitar playing tour guide. Charis played the tambourine and the rest of us had fun with the shakers. We saw many historical sites, such as the place where Martin Luther King was assassinated, Johnny Cash’s house, the place where Elvis had his high school prom, Sun Studios and Stax Records. Before getting our bus back to the hotel, we stopped off for a wee drink at Silky O’Sullivans where there was live jazz band playing. And a wee drink constitutes as a 32 fl oz beer.
Back at the hotel, Charis, Kishan and Rowena went for a swim in the guitar shaped pool and then we all decided that we were too exhausted to go out for dinner so we ordered in Chinese. We then passed out at 10pm after watching Dolly Parton’s Straight Talking, despite having 24 hours of Elvis films available.
A little less conversation, a little more action pleeeeeeeeeeeease!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Day 4 - Rock Ranch to Memphis via Nashville
Woke up, built a fire. Met by Dee Dee’s husband Tom, who drove us in his truck to go to see the Texas Longhorn called ‘the Duke’ and his 6 foot horns and his friends big bull balls. After this, went back to camp and toasted our bagels. We packed up, and went to the gift shop and then got to play on the giant inflatable bouncy pillow.
We got given a free ‘Eat More Chikin’ Cow and a voucher for a free chicken sandwich so we then went to the nearest Chick-Fil-A Dwarf House with its small red door to try one...the chain is owned by Mr Truett Cathy who also owns the Rock Ranch. The chicken sandwiches were GOOD! And the service lovely, we got given a menu to take home. We also tried the Hot Brown which was recommended to us by Dee Dee...it was good, chicken covered in white sauce topped with cheese, bacon and toast.
After this we set off for Nashville. We arrived around 4 and went to look around. There was a Metallica gig in the venue by the visitor centre, so Beverley was happy to have her metal music fix as their music was playing everywhere! We headed down Broadway and 2nd Avenue. Lots of shops selling cowboy boots etc and lots of nice looking bars. Walked down the music walk of fame. Nashville seemed like a small but cool place.
Quote of the day: Rowena ‘Kishan is the female version of Helen’ ...What Ro meant to say is Kishan is the male version of Helen.
Joke of day: Jamie’s invention – When does a vegetarian become anorexic? When they lose their apple-tite.
Denny’s for dinner, steak, chicken, burgers and salads. Then on to Memphis to stay on Elvis Presley Boulevard. The hotel has a guitar shaped pool and free breakfast and is decorated with Elvis pictures and memorabilia. A block from Graceland although we didn’t realize this when we checked it.
It has been a long day zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...
We got given a free ‘Eat More Chikin’ Cow and a voucher for a free chicken sandwich so we then went to the nearest Chick-Fil-A Dwarf House with its small red door to try one...the chain is owned by Mr Truett Cathy who also owns the Rock Ranch. The chicken sandwiches were GOOD! And the service lovely, we got given a menu to take home. We also tried the Hot Brown which was recommended to us by Dee Dee...it was good, chicken covered in white sauce topped with cheese, bacon and toast.
After this we set off for Nashville. We arrived around 4 and went to look around. There was a Metallica gig in the venue by the visitor centre, so Beverley was happy to have her metal music fix as their music was playing everywhere! We headed down Broadway and 2nd Avenue. Lots of shops selling cowboy boots etc and lots of nice looking bars. Walked down the music walk of fame. Nashville seemed like a small but cool place.
Quote of the day: Rowena ‘Kishan is the female version of Helen’ ...What Ro meant to say is Kishan is the male version of Helen.
Joke of day: Jamie’s invention – When does a vegetarian become anorexic? When they lose their apple-tite.
Denny’s for dinner, steak, chicken, burgers and salads. Then on to Memphis to stay on Elvis Presley Boulevard. The hotel has a guitar shaped pool and free breakfast and is decorated with Elvis pictures and memorabilia. A block from Graceland although we didn’t realize this when we checked it.
It has been a long day zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...
Monday, September 14, 2009
Day Three - Atlanta Exploring and The Rock Ranch
In Atlanta, started off with a walk through Olympic centennial park. Lots of waterfalls and sculptures. Very pretty. On the way to it, we past a parking lot with football fans in drinking at 10am on a Sunday!
After we went to World of Coca Cola which has a museum and bottling plant. We sampled 60 different types of coca cola products from 5 different continents. Jamie liked Simba from Africa, Kishan liked Exotic Fanta from...somewhere we can’t remember...maybe Uruguay?
We found a product from Mauritius for Kishan and from Italy, a Beverly for Beverley.
We came away from the factory of happiness...happy.
We discovered the secret formula of coca cola too....and got a free coke in a glass bottle.
After we went to see Martin Luther Kings Birthplace and his resting place on Freedom Walk.
All in all, we thought Atlanta was a 4/10...bit of a disappointment, but think may be because we stayed in wrong part by focusing on downtown...but at least we got to see Coca Cola world!
At 4pm we headed down to the Rock Ranch for our night in a Wagon. We were greeted by Dee Dee, Cindy and Novin who were so very happy to see us. They usually don’t work on Sunday’s for religious reasons but had made an exception because we were coming so far (they believed from New Jersey not the UK so were frilled by us)
We got driven up to the wagon...on route, they discovered a cow that had managed to jump the cattle grid. We were then taken on a hay wagon ride back to the main bit of the ranch...we got shown around all the animals, had a go on the slides and in the corn house (which is kinda like a kids ball pit, but instead of balls there were corn kernels.)
Back in camp, we all collected fire wood, and Jamie set up a fire, using his survival book, creating a log cabin with tepee fire arrangement on top. Ro and Luke did some dances around the fire and then we cooked our hot dogs on the fire, and for dessert we toasted marshmallows and made smores. After some star gazing we went to snuggle up in our bunkbeds in the wagon for the night.
Quote of the day:
Coca Cola Guy – So my favourite drink is from Italy, its called a Beverly...has anyone ever had or tasted one?
Rowena – Jamie has
[note to readers – Beverley and Jamie are a couple]
After we went to World of Coca Cola which has a museum and bottling plant. We sampled 60 different types of coca cola products from 5 different continents. Jamie liked Simba from Africa, Kishan liked Exotic Fanta from...somewhere we can’t remember...maybe Uruguay?
We found a product from Mauritius for Kishan and from Italy, a Beverly for Beverley.
We came away from the factory of happiness...happy.
We discovered the secret formula of coca cola too....and got a free coke in a glass bottle.
After we went to see Martin Luther Kings Birthplace and his resting place on Freedom Walk.
All in all, we thought Atlanta was a 4/10...bit of a disappointment, but think may be because we stayed in wrong part by focusing on downtown...but at least we got to see Coca Cola world!
At 4pm we headed down to the Rock Ranch for our night in a Wagon. We were greeted by Dee Dee, Cindy and Novin who were so very happy to see us. They usually don’t work on Sunday’s for religious reasons but had made an exception because we were coming so far (they believed from New Jersey not the UK so were frilled by us)
We got driven up to the wagon...on route, they discovered a cow that had managed to jump the cattle grid. We were then taken on a hay wagon ride back to the main bit of the ranch...we got shown around all the animals, had a go on the slides and in the corn house (which is kinda like a kids ball pit, but instead of balls there were corn kernels.)
Back in camp, we all collected fire wood, and Jamie set up a fire, using his survival book, creating a log cabin with tepee fire arrangement on top. Ro and Luke did some dances around the fire and then we cooked our hot dogs on the fire, and for dessert we toasted marshmallows and made smores. After some star gazing we went to snuggle up in our bunkbeds in the wagon for the night.
Quote of the day:
Coca Cola Guy – So my favourite drink is from Italy, its called a Beverly...has anyone ever had or tasted one?
Rowena – Jamie has
[note to readers – Beverley and Jamie are a couple]
Day two- Harrisonburg to Atlanta
Woke up earlyish planning on setting off at 8am. Waffle house for breakfast, yummy! Then on the road again, between 9am and 9.30am. A religious store across the parking lot...
Not a lot has happened really, the weather is gorgeous. Views amazing.
Quote of the day:
Jamie: That’s a big water tower.
Luke: What’s in it?
(What Luke meant to say is: What sort of water is stored in it/what is it used for?)
We ate at Hardee’s for the first time...more fast food. Looking forward to some fruit and veg soon.
Found our favourite country song so far...’rocking the beergut’ –referring to a girl’s beergut...
Saw a dog being pulled behind a car in a cage on wheels...wind in it’s hair.
Arrived in Atlanta, stayed in Motel 6 downtown. Went for a little explore of area and had dinner in Jalapenos Charlies. Food was good, had mango chicken, Kabobs, Orange and Shrimp Salad, an lovely eggplanty dish and pork tacos...yum.
On way back to motel, saw art sculptures of lots of street corners which were pretty cool.
Not a lot has happened really, the weather is gorgeous. Views amazing.
Quote of the day:
Jamie: That’s a big water tower.
Luke: What’s in it?
(What Luke meant to say is: What sort of water is stored in it/what is it used for?)
We ate at Hardee’s for the first time...more fast food. Looking forward to some fruit and veg soon.
Found our favourite country song so far...’rocking the beergut’ –referring to a girl’s beergut...
Saw a dog being pulled behind a car in a cage on wheels...wind in it’s hair.
Arrived in Atlanta, stayed in Motel 6 downtown. Went for a little explore of area and had dinner in Jalapenos Charlies. Food was good, had mango chicken, Kabobs, Orange and Shrimp Salad, an lovely eggplanty dish and pork tacos...yum.
On way back to motel, saw art sculptures of lots of street corners which were pretty cool.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Day One in the car = A Kia Sedona
Day One in the car = A Kia Sedona
So after a little dilemma or two with UPS (misinformation and a scheduled pick up that wasn’t scheduled) we managed to get on the road at 3:30pm.
So far we’ve covered New Jersey Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia and stopped in Harrisonburg Virginia for the night – covering 370 miles. Cheap smokers hotel rooms. :-(
Along the way we saw two oversized crosses, one that was made of steel and was lit by changing colours, and another set of illuminated white crosses, sending light into the sky.
Beverley had a Baptism of rain with her first driving experience since passing her test...torrential downpours and traffic jams on the freeway...and driving at night....all in one day!
Jamie, Charis and Beverley came up with an analogy, the road trip is not that different from work really, you are still sitting down for at least eight hours a day....the car is the company, the GPS/ Sat Nav is your boss, and the road/route the company’s business plan.
We discovered that Love’s is a convenience store and that Arby’s does a pretty tasty menu for dinner... Managed to end up at the rest stop with a coach load of people, Jamie then noticed on the news they were ‘Tea Partiers’ heading to Washington, DC to protest the healthcare bill.
Rowena had a sore arse from sitting down, Jamie said Charis smells. Luke shrieked prompted by Jamie raising his voice telling Beverley to slow down faster.
Ro’s quote of the day: Best laid schemes of mice and men.
Jamie was hungry.
Charis ate the chicken leg – not road kill.
We all feel it’s just a long weekend and we’ll be heading back to Jersey soon enough, it’s not kicked in yet that this is it for 30 days.
8.52pm the wipers were finally switched off.
So after a little dilemma or two with UPS (misinformation and a scheduled pick up that wasn’t scheduled) we managed to get on the road at 3:30pm.
So far we’ve covered New Jersey Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia and stopped in Harrisonburg Virginia for the night – covering 370 miles. Cheap smokers hotel rooms. :-(
Along the way we saw two oversized crosses, one that was made of steel and was lit by changing colours, and another set of illuminated white crosses, sending light into the sky.
Beverley had a Baptism of rain with her first driving experience since passing her test...torrential downpours and traffic jams on the freeway...and driving at night....all in one day!
Jamie, Charis and Beverley came up with an analogy, the road trip is not that different from work really, you are still sitting down for at least eight hours a day....the car is the company, the GPS/ Sat Nav is your boss, and the road/route the company’s business plan.
We discovered that Love’s is a convenience store and that Arby’s does a pretty tasty menu for dinner... Managed to end up at the rest stop with a coach load of people, Jamie then noticed on the news they were ‘Tea Partiers’ heading to Washington, DC to protest the healthcare bill.
Rowena had a sore arse from sitting down, Jamie said Charis smells. Luke shrieked prompted by Jamie raising his voice telling Beverley to slow down faster.
Ro’s quote of the day: Best laid schemes of mice and men.
Jamie was hungry.
Charis ate the chicken leg – not road kill.
We all feel it’s just a long weekend and we’ll be heading back to Jersey soon enough, it’s not kicked in yet that this is it for 30 days.
8.52pm the wipers were finally switched off.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Route
It's the penultimate day so we thought we would send you the route that we have planned, beware this could change!!!!
So here it is:
Fri September 11th place on way
Sat September 12th Atlanta
Sun September 13th Atlanta Mon September 14th Memphis
Tues September 15th Memphis
Wed September 16th New Orleans
Thurs September 17th New Orleans
Fri September 18th Dallas
Sat September 19th Dallas Sun September 20th San Antonio
Mon September 21st San Antonio
Tues September 22nd Santa Teresa, El Paso
September 23 Santa Teresa September 24th Tucson
September 25th Phoenix
Sat September 26th Phoenix
Sun September 27th Phoenix to Grand Canyon part way
Mon September 28th Grand Canyon
Tues September 29th Grand Canyon
Wed September 30th Las Vegas
Thurs October 1st Las Vegas
Fri October 2nd San Diego
Sat October 3rd San Diego
Sun October 4th San Francisco
Mon October 5th San Fran
Tues October 6th Eugene
Wed October 7th Eugene
Thurs October 8th Seattle
Fri October 9th Seattle
Sat October 10th fly home…
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=newark+airport&daddr=Roanoke,+Virginia+to:georgia,+atlanta+to:Nashville,+Tennessee+to:Memphis,+Tennessee+to:new+orleans,+louisiana+to:dallas,+texas+to:san+antonio,+texas+to:Santa+Teresa,+el+paso+to:Tucson,+Arizona+to:phoenix,+az+to:Grand+Canyon+AZ+to:las+vegas,+nevada+to:san+diego,+california+to:los+angeles,+california+to:san+francisco,+california+to:roseburg,+oregon+to:Seattle,+Washington&geocode=%3BFS28OAIdCi08-w%3B%3BFae9JwIdmM_T-g%3BFcQ8GAIdAumh-g%3B%3B%3B%3B%3BFfjB6wEd2CFj-Q%3B%3BFV0QJwIdMxhA-SGOEO2A8HmNdQ%3B%3B%3B%3B%3B%3BFW2j1gId9CC1-A&hl=e&mra=ls&sll=38.524185,-98.785185&sspn=50.563549,67.675781&ie=UTF8&z=4
Charis
So here it is:
Fri September 11th place on way
Sat September 12th Atlanta
Sun September 13th Atlanta Mon September 14th Memphis
Tues September 15th Memphis
Wed September 16th New Orleans
Thurs September 17th New Orleans
Fri September 18th Dallas
Sat September 19th Dallas Sun September 20th San Antonio
Mon September 21st San Antonio
Tues September 22nd Santa Teresa, El Paso
September 23 Santa Teresa September 24th Tucson
September 25th Phoenix
Sat September 26th Phoenix
Sun September 27th Phoenix to Grand Canyon part way
Mon September 28th Grand Canyon
Tues September 29th Grand Canyon
Wed September 30th Las Vegas
Thurs October 1st Las Vegas
Fri October 2nd San Diego
Sat October 3rd San Diego
Sun October 4th San Francisco
Mon October 5th San Fran
Tues October 6th Eugene
Wed October 7th Eugene
Thurs October 8th Seattle
Fri October 9th Seattle
Sat October 10th fly home…
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=newark+airport&daddr=Roanoke,+Virginia+to:georgia,+atlanta+to:Nashville,+Tennessee+to:Memphis,+Tennessee+to:new+orleans,+louisiana+to:dallas,+texas+to:san+antonio,+texas+to:Santa+Teresa,+el+paso+to:Tucson,+Arizona+to:phoenix,+az+to:Grand+Canyon+AZ+to:las+vegas,+nevada+to:san+diego,+california+to:los+angeles,+california+to:san+francisco,+california+to:roseburg,+oregon+to:Seattle,+Washington&geocode=%3BFS28OAIdCi08-w%3B%3BFae9JwIdmM_T-g%3BFcQ8GAIdAumh-g%3B%3B%3B%3B%3BFfjB6wEd2CFj-Q%3B%3BFV0QJwIdMxhA-SGOEO2A8HmNdQ%3B%3B%3B%3B%3B%3BFW2j1gId9CC1-A&hl=e&mra=ls&sll=38.524185,-98.785185&sspn=50.563549,67.675781&ie=UTF8&z=4
Charis
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Wednesday- the night before the night before....
Arghhhhhhhh!!!!
It's so nearly here!! We're doing our washing so can finish packing tonight, though undoubtedly we will be rushing around tomorrow. And booked our luggage shipping yesterday, yay!
New interns arrived today, looking all smart in suits with bright eyes and bushy tails, and along with them, the realisation that we're actually going....mixed feelings right now....sad, happy, excited, anxious, nervous and that pit of the stomach feeling you can never quite describe...
Nearly set, next post soon......
From Charis, Rowena and Beverley
It's so nearly here!! We're doing our washing so can finish packing tonight, though undoubtedly we will be rushing around tomorrow. And booked our luggage shipping yesterday, yay!
New interns arrived today, looking all smart in suits with bright eyes and bushy tails, and along with them, the realisation that we're actually going....mixed feelings right now....sad, happy, excited, anxious, nervous and that pit of the stomach feeling you can never quite describe...
Nearly set, next post soon......
From Charis, Rowena and Beverley
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Preliminary Post
So we've set up this blog, with a total of 13 sleeps to go. We can't wait, 13 days seem way to long. This is a test blog and really we have nothing to say.
Jamie says he's very excited and wants to go now, but unfortunetly has to work for next two weeks so gets pay + bonus cheque....Charis agrees....Beverley nods.
Charis says we need to pack and book shipment to Seattle...other than that, we're ready to go....
Roll on 2 weeks time :)
Open roads, just like Karate Kids!
From Beverley, Charis and Jamie
Jamie says he's very excited and wants to go now, but unfortunetly has to work for next two weeks so gets pay + bonus cheque....Charis agrees....Beverley nods.
Charis says we need to pack and book shipment to Seattle...other than that, we're ready to go....
Roll on 2 weeks time :)
Open roads, just like Karate Kids!
From Beverley, Charis and Jamie
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