Good times! We arrived in LA 2 days ago, just in time to crash at our hotel in Pasadena. We chose a cheap place (as always), but were happily surprised with the quality of the place. Check them out – Hyland Inn Pasadena.
Yesterday we did all the tourist stuff. Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Sign photos, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, and the Santa Monica Pier. Tons of photos and plenty of scary traffic experiences. I’m not sure which traffic is worse, Miami or LA. Right now I’m convinced it’s LA.
I was also very lucky to re-connect with a friend from cruise ships that is currently working on a TV show for CBS. Was great to see him and enjoy a few minutes and a beer (okay, 2 beers) together.
Today we slept in and did some basic maintenance before heading out. I was able to do some laundry (it’s the simple pleasures) and Vale was able to enjoy some pool/jacuzzi time before we left the hotel about noon.
Once we left, we went to the Beverly Hills 90210 house for some pictures. They were shooting something for TV (or movie?) nearby, but we were able to get a quick shot of Vale in front of the house by being a little sneaky.
After that, we went by the Westin Bonaventure Hotel. This is a spot Vale was interested in. We just got a quick photo while driving by, but that seemed to work.
We ended the tourist day with a stop by the La Brea Tar Pits. This was something that I somehow remembered from elementary school, but it turned out to be pretty interesting. We were able to get in and see most of the museum in about 45 minutes, but you have to book online, and early.
So now we are back in the hotel, enjoying some wine, and contemplating a trip to the hot tub. Oh yeah! A little relaxation time is exactly what we need. Especially if we have Napa Valley coming up.
But. . . . Next stop. . . . . Death Valley.
Ciao for now.