alex waring's Guestbook

Age Ole trees
Magnificent

U.S. National Parks are a wonder to behold
As Teddy Roosevelt said, "There is nothing so American as our national parks.... The fundamental idea behind the parks...is that the country belongs to the people, that it is in process of making for the enrichment of the lives of all of us." When many people think of California they picture LA, SF and the other cities... mainly due to Hollywood movies. Until one digs into exploring California they do not realize the amount of farmland and small towns. Our parks are a great source of pride. I'm glad they gave you a nice set of wheels. Words of a true traveler, "I've found what I'm looking for, in looking for it". Marvelous! I'm glad you found joy in the serene mountain highways. We are eager for your return to this great land.

Hollywood impacts our travels and expectations.
We've traveled to places and wanted to see if they look like they are presented in the movies. Indeed, get to the chopper. I'm shocked to hear no one was working out at Venice Beach. Sorry you missed that. LA has some bad areas and I'm sorry to hear how much it has changed since COVID. Sad really. I hate hearing about the guy shouting at you and following you. That would have freaked me out. It sounds like you had more good times than bad. I'm glad your time ended at Universal. It sounds like you had a fun day.

LOL you are in America! I’m like you, most of my childhood is based on stuff I saw on tv. So when you actually go there it can be odd or a let down. It’s never what you thought it was! I’ll probably experience that when I go to New York. You covered a lot of ground and experienced the main sites. I’m sure you will really enjoy getting out of sprawling LA and seeing a bit more of the state. It’s so big! Have fun and be safe.

LA
Memories of 1989 ....... Downtown wasn't great even then!

A great start to the LA area
You've started your trip with a lot of the rich and famous. It is fun looking at all of those houses and it sounds like Rick provided an amazing tour. I'm glad he didn't cancel on you since you were the only one signed up. I'm sure you'll discuss the sad homeless population in your next blog as anyone who visits LA cannot miss the tragedy that is going on ... The walk of stars is always fun. I have many photos of Stars. LA is iconic. Eager to read more. MJ

The Observatory
The views are far better from this location than you would think. It is lovely architecture.

That's why they call it Hollywood!
Dave here.....looks like you hit the tourist motherlode on this day. Lot's to see and do and you made the most of ti!

The magic of Sintra and beautiful views of Lisbon
Thank you for taking us to magical Sintra with us. It truly sounds like entering a fairy tale. Well done doing everything there by foot, even though the ascents and descents were rather steep. And lovely that you could take in all the beautiful views of the city of Lisbon and that you could take some time for just taking the atmosphere in, strolling around, enjoying it all.

Dassie Rats
The cuties rats I've ever seen! Great blog as always! Marine watching is always fun!