From the UK to the UK via CA, NV, UT and OR

[dangermouse]

Trip Report

Day 1 – London / Los Angeles


After a ridiculously early start, my National Express coach deposited me at Heathrow in plenty of time to allow a relaxing massage in the Concord Room – this is a first for me and proved a very pleasant way to start my trip.

Boarding the plane it appeared that I was going to have the entire cabin to myself.



However another couple of people boarded shortly before take off – this still meant that I was able to have 2 areas to myself, one set up for sleeping and the other for working – quite the best way to travel I'm sure!!

The flight proved uneventful, with just a little turbulance to deal with and soon enough we were landing in the city of angels.

Prior to leaving the UK, I had arranged a hire car with Budget and after a short wait in LAX to get my oversize baggage back I was collecting my steed for the next 22 days.



It has possibly the most intoxicating engine note I've ever heard coming from a 6 and I can already tell it's going to be tough to give it back!

A quick trip to Santa Monica and I was checking into the Seashore Motel, my home for the next 2 days.
No time to waste and I take a trip to the famous 3rd street promenade



Before walking down to the beach and out on the pier.



The pier has been through a number of changes in its 100 year plus history, coming very close to demolition midway through the last century.
Happily some forward thinking locals convinced the powers that be that it was a national treasure worth saving – judging by the number of people present on an overcast April day, I'd say they've succeeded.



Close to the pier is the world famous muscle beach.



Not much going on there this afternoon, but the whole sea front is alive with people walking, cycling rollerblading and the like – its a very nice area and I thoroughly enjoyed my walk around.

Heading back to the motel it's time to grab some dinner before hitting the sack.
Up early tomorrow to start my holiday proper.