eigasuki

Thanks for all your kind comments.

Ha, I just realized I started my report saying I arrived home four weeks ago. It’s actually not quite three – it just seems like ages ago. Maybe it’s because the trip was four weeks.

<<dmlove said - the first time we drove on the "wrong side of the road", I could have lived without the number of curb bumps we did>> I didn’t hit the curb/kerb too many times, but that’s cos I was very ‘shy’ on the right side, which might have meant I was too far in the middle of the road making it difficult to pass. I found that drivers of black SUVs are the same everywhere!
I didn’t know about the oil spill. How dreadful. It was terrible to hear about the fires and realize I’d just passed through some of those areas. They did look very dry.
tuckerdc, thanks for the heads up for that journeywoman site. Looks like a great resource. My approach to traveling solo is that anything I do at home solo, I can do in another place. I long ago came to the realization that I just had to decide to do it and then find ways to make it happen. It’s my contribution to personal growth; to challenge myself – I’ve wasted too much of my life postponing things and worrying about “What if”.
I think Australians are outward looking people and great travelers. Its partly because of a insecurity complex result from our convict, colonial past. It’s great to experience all the treasures and highlights of other places and to come back and appreciate what we have here.
So, on with the trip reportbr /> Sunday 30th September 2007
Sunset Boulevard
I had a late start and a leisurely day today by comparison. After the hotel breakfast of cranberry juice, bagels and cream cheese, I set off for the Getty Center. Being me, I went the long way via Laurel Canyon Drive and Sunset Boulevard. It was pretty hair-raising going down Laurel Canyon with impatient drivers behind who wanted to go faster than the 25 mph limit.

The Getty Center is high on the hill with amazing views over LA and out to the ocean. I think I enjoyed the views as much as the exhibits. Although it was another sunny cloudless day, you couldn't actually see all that much into the distance. I spent much of the day there, joined the tour of the gardens which explained how the architecture and landscape had been designed to complement each other and treated myself to a nice lunch in the restaurant there.

I drove back via UCLA, Rodeo Drive and Sunset Boulevard, though it's hard to take it all in when you have to keep your eyes on the road. Take out taco for dinner. One disadvantage of the Hollywood Celebrity Hotel is the parking lot which is small and squeezy and you have to back out into the street. So once I was in, I was hesitant to go out again for fear of not getting a parking spot on my return. The dining options right there in Hollywood weren’t that appealing either.
Monday 1st October 2007
What's Up Doc?
I began the morning with the Warner Brother's Studio Tour "VIP Experience". I was there in time for the ten o'clock tour. We drove through the back lot, past various trailers and sound stages and then to the costume museum, then the "Two and a Half Men" sound stage where they were building the set for taping later in the week. We then saw a collection of automobiles and drove around some New York street, Chicago exteriors for ER and "Anytown USA" and then visited the former set from "Friends", The Coffee Perk.

I then drove a good part of Mulholland Drive - Amazing views both side on the mountain but you really need to keep your eye on the road; it's steep, winding and the road surfaces are dreadful. I returned to the hotel and decided to let someone else do the driving for a change; so I took a bus tour around Hollywood and Beverly Hills etc I got to have a good look at some things I’d have missed while driving. I should have done earlier in my visit as I didn’t have time to stop off and see any of the places we went past.

I had been given a pass to a taping of a talkshow, Carson Daly's Late Show but I didn't fancy dealing with the five o'clock traffic past Hollywood Bowl or negotiating the hotel carpark . I got back on the hop on hop off bus and went to Universal City. I was just intending just to check out the area but it turned out it was the premiere of Cate Blanchett's new film, "Elizabeth The Golden Age". So naturally I hung out near the red carpet for a bit of celeb spotting. I saw Abbie Cornish and Cate Blanchett and the director, Shekhar Kapur, but they were the only ones I knew for certain. I go all the way to Hollywood and the celebs I see are Aussies. I caught the Metro back to the hotel and bed. So that was the California leg of my journey. Next stop Las Vegas.

Mamaw

eigasuki Sounds like your trip was awesome. You did so many side trips and I'm impressed. I am one of those people that want to lay around the beach/pool all day. But then again I live in Detroit and we have those hard long cold winters that is starting now.

I travel solo quite often and would love to come to aussie land. I heard the american's are quite welcome there. I do have cousin's there and a friend who stars on some soap opera on the tellie.

curnudgein, I thought the same thing on the phone charger thingy. You have to flip the light switch to charge. I learned the hard way in Costa Rica. Now I'm in the know.

Theresa in Detroit.

dcd

I too am enjoying your report. As an American, it's always nice to get a non-American's perspective of our country and people. I admire your travelling spirit. Looking forward to more!!

mari808

eigasuki,

Eiga suki desuka?

Of the 3 celebs u mentioned, I've only heard of Cate B.

eigasuki

Tuesday 2nd October 2007
LA International Airport
Main item of business for Tuesday was to get myself to the airport, return the rental car and get the plane to Vegas. I had directions from the hotel concierge but the GPS actually had a Return the Car function which led me directly to the depot and actually didn't use the freeways at all. I had a leisurely breakfast, checked out and was on my way, allowing plenty of time, but in fact the route was straightforward and the rental return was a very slick operation. I was soon on the shuttle bus to the airport, checked in and waiting, waiting, waiting....

I had to take a shuttle to the American Eagle terminal and onto a tiny little plane where most people had to gate-check their carry-on luggage as the overhead lockers were tiny. I guess it’s more economic to have numerous flights on these small planes rather than fewer larger planes. After all, if you get the urge to gamble, you shouldn’t have to wait hours for a plane!

I had a window seat so I had great views all the way. We took off over the ocean, then circled over LA and over the mountains etc – I was surprised how uninhabited the parts of CA we flew over were. We circled over Hoover Dam )looking way less than full capacity) and the sprawl of Vegas and then I was amongst the slot machines and onto the train which goes from terminal to terminal.

This part of the trip I had not planned at all. When I originally planned my trip, I mentioned to my friend T in Las Vegas that I would be passing by and would love to catch up. To my delight she and her partner took time off work and another friend was able to join us from Denver so I left the planning to them. G’s flight from Denver had arrived just before mine and the girls were at the baggage claim to meet me. We went first to check into the apartment at Desert Rose Suites they had arranged for the evening. (My friend actually lives out of Vegas and commutes in each day) Then it was off to check out the strip. Every casino and hotel has a theme which it develops to the max. But despite all the glitz, no worries about feeling underdressed! In fact I never felt scruffy and underdressed anywhere I went. Seems Americans are as casual as us Aussies.

We went to the Venetian, where T works, with its canals and gondolas and explored the shops and the general ambience. I found the fake sky to be rather weird. Then it was onto the Canyon Ranch Spa where T had booked us in for a massage at mate’s rates . G and I indulged in a Hot Stone massage. An hour and a half of pure bliss. We then had some dinner at the Grande Luxe Cafe at the Venetian and then we drove the strip at night and watched the fountain display outside the Bellagio.

We then visited a supermarket to get some things for our drive to the Grand Canyon next day and I noticed the slot machines conveniently located just past the checkouts to help you with unwanted small change.

Wednesday 3rd October 2007
Heading Into Utah and Beyond


Next morning T's partner arrived and we headed off for the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It was a long drive but we had lots to talk about and the time passed quickly. Either side of the highway you can see mountain ranges and the formations are always changing so there's always something to see plus you pass through communities of suburbia and golf courses in the middle of the desert. We stopped for a rest stop at the Moapa casino/supermarket. I was surprised enough by all the slot machines but after we emerged from the restrooms and entered the supermarket I was confronted by huge cartons full of fireworks. Just about all of the supermarket was dedicated to the sale of fireworks- aisles and aisles of the stuff, I particularly liked the $250 Big Bang cartons but there was endless variety available. Is this legal? I asked. Apparently, but I was discouraged from buying some. I’d never get it through customs and M is a volunteer firefighter. We didn’t think it would be a good look to set firrworks off in a National Park or at their place and cause a fire ;-0.
Refreshed, we headed north to Utah (so add a third state to my list) and then did a loop before crossing into Arizona. Eventually we reached the Grand Canyon National Park where it became more forested and the conifers were interpersed with aspen trees which have turned yellow and shimmer like golden candles amongst the green.


We reached our accommodation at the Grand Canyon Lodge - little log cabins right at the rim of the Canyon. from the lounge and restaurant you can actually see into the canyon. I was thrilled. It couldn't have been more perfect, and once the couple of tourist buses had left, it seemed we had the place to ourselves (and the other guests of course) Fantastic views from all directions. Words really are inadequate to describe the sheer magnitude of the spectacle and many pictures were taken, though you realise the impossibility of even remotely capturing it on film, especially with my camera. At one stage I filled my memory card, bounded up the steps towards the cabin to get a new card and just collapsed into one of the armchairs of the lounge, breathless and with pounding heart, having completely failed to take into account the effects of altitude. You are at about 8500 feet above sea level. I soon recovered in time to get some pictures at sunset.

And I was able to provide amusement by my offering to bring a torch so I could get my thongs from the boot. Even the way I said torch was funny. Taaaawch.
Thursday 4th October 2007
Nearer My God to Thee
During the night the wind came up and the morning dawned cloudy and threatening, which solved our dilemma of whether to do the one hour or the half day mule ride. We didn't exactly get the sunrise on film (maybe M did, but the rest of us were a wee bit late for that) but we were up early and were soon on our way towards Cape Royale and Imperial Point, one of which is the highest part of the Canyon. More incredible scenery which I am completely unable to adequate describe in words or pictures, especially when you consider the scope of it. Although it was cloudy and the colour was not as intense as you see in most of the pictures, the cloud formations had their own beauty. How many pictures are enough? Oh, just this one more. It was a great opportunity to visit the North Rim which is so untouristy and with the benefit of M's knowledge and experience in the area. And he was so incredibly patient, happy to stop every time I wanted to take that one extra picture.
We stopped for lunch at Jacob’s Lake Inn which had fantastic Navajo (?) rugs lining the restaurant walls. All for sale but unfortunately a little bulky – and pricey. During the drive back the weather picked up and we went from rain to dust storms. It was dark (and very windy) before we reached M and T's home and everyone fell into their beds.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Viva Las Vegas
Today was chill out and recover day. T was off early to collect the dogs, from the Canine Castle. The day was windy in the extreme - they live right in the desert about an hour out of Las Vegas itself. The view from their home so reminded me of the view from my house in Karratha except for the colour of the soil, and for the fact that, when you opened the door, you were confronted with cold, not hot air.

We spent the day resting up, getting laundry done and vegging out in front of the TV and chatting, a holiday from my holiday and a great chance to rest up after all the rushing around in California.

In the late afternoon we went into Las Vegas, cruised the strip again and stopped at the Bellagio. I got to see the fountains from another angle and the amazing glass flowers and displays in the Bellagio lobby. We had dinner in the Cafe Bellagio which overlooked the conservatory. (My shout)

We took G to the airport to catch her flight back to Denver and then cruised by the all night Wedding chapel but there was nobody in the standby queue waiting for me so it was back to home base.. We stopped for a comfort break at Indian Springs at a place that seemed to me to be right out of Thelma and Louise but no Brad Pitt!

eigasuki

Mamaw, I perfectly understand why others would want to lie around on beaches, but I live about a mile from a very nice beach and I hardly ever do when I’m at home. I sometimes forget what a big effort it is for most people to get to see sea. Of course you’d be made most welcome in Australia (especially after the next election) Here with our 240 v electric supply there’s always a switch on the wall outlet. Maybe that was it. I don’t recall that any of the wall plates had switches, even the one with the lamp. I found most places I could charge it, but there was at least one other place where it would, forget where.

Mari808, Cate is probably the only one who’s an actual celebrity. The others are the director and Abbie is another up-and-coming Aussie star. Maybe she’s a future celeb; who knows. Watashi wa eiga ga dasuki.

LCBoniti

Very entertaining trip report - I love your sense of humor and it is fun to hear about my home base (Calif-LA) from a visitor's perspective.

Looking forward to more . . .

eigasuki

Saturday, October 08, 2007

Saturday was another relaxing day. By the time we’d slept in and downloaded all the photos and updated the travel blog and packed etc, it was time to head into Las Vegas en route to the airport. We stopped on the way in at a small store which sold Indian artifacts. After dinner at a rather nice Thai restaurant, it was off to the airport to catch the red-eye to Boston. Those who reads some of my posts prior to my trip will know that this flight had been changed on me several times, but in the end it all worked out fine. It seems like I didn’t get to see much in Las Vegas but I really appreciated the chance to hang out with my friends and recharge my batteries ready for the east coast. I felt really at home on the west coast, almost like a part of Aus I hadn’t been to before. Wide open spaces, relaxed, friendly people, twentieth century/twenty first century ambience. Now off to historic Boston.

Sunday, October 07, 2007

Paul Revere's Ride
I arrived in Boston at around 7 and walked straight out to the bus which took me to the station, straight onto the train and after a moments confusion (the street names aren't all that obvious, I was at the Morrison House B&B in Somerville which was a Fodor’s recommendation. I was invited to join the other guests for breakfast, which was an unexpected pleasure. My room wasn’t ready, of course, but I was able to leave my things and headed into the city.
What a contrast! Boston is, like, old! I emerged from the T at Park Street right near the Tourist Office and the start of the Freedom Trail. Being a Sunday, and Columbus Day weekend, it was very rather crowded with tour groups and family groups and others. I set off to follow the Freedom Trail, a row of bricks in the sidewalk that goes all over the city from one historic site to another. It was a very interesting way to see the Boston city center itself as well as some of the history, though I’m afraid my knowledge of most of it was somewhat sketchy.

While I was walking through the North End, the Italian part of town, I was in time to see the Columbus Day parade, starting off with a convoy of fire brigade vehicles, police vehicles and the service men, I guess they were cadets, radio and sports personalities, several politicians (I'm now the proud owner of a "vote for Michael O'Flaherty for Boston Council" emery board) and endless school marching bands which varied enormously in competence and geekiness.

I continued across the river into Charlestown and I climbed to the top of the Bunker Hill monument - all 290 steps. After days of sitting on my derriere, I was quite weary. Didn't help that I had almost no sleep on the plane and sitting scrunched up had made my back sore. I needed another hot stone massage.
On the way back to the B&B I realized that we passed through Harvard near where I was to pick up the rental car in the morning so I got off at the Harvard Square station and set about to find the rental car place. Trouble was, I didn’t have the map I’d printed off with me. I didn’t find the place (I was actually about one building from it and didn’t realize at the time) but I had a lovely walk around the area which was buzzing with a street concert and heaps of students and others enjoying the holiday atmosphere (I’m using holiday in the English Australian sense here) I grabbed a lobster roll at a place in Davis Square and another well deserved early night.

Monday,08th October, 2007

The Autumn Leaves... (Groan)
So far everything had gone smoothly Now I begin to get careless or complacent or whatever. If I’d had the map on me the previous evening, I’d have realized how close the Hertz rental place was from the T. But as I wasn’t sure, I thought it would be a good idea to take the T, pick up the car and come back to pick up my luggage. First mistake. Next mistake was leaving the map with directions to the B&B IN the luggage.

I collected the car without incident and then realised I don’t have a map and don’t know how to get back to the B&B. I hadn’t booked a GPS when I booked this car through Expedia, and to get one involved upgrading to a larger and much more expensive car. Maybe that was another mistake. It took an hour to get back to the B&B! I swear that car had a homing device – I found myself back at Harvard Square three times. Thanks to the Tufts University signs, I was able to get back to the right area and suddenly, there it was. “I recognize this church on the corner…” Co-incidentally, My friend in Vegas is a Tufts alumni and Davis Sqaure was where M and T met.
On the positive side I really enjoyed driving around Cambridge and Somerville and along the Mystic River Parkway. I’d otherwise have missed that. Morrison House was a good place to stay. It’s out of town a bit but was easy to get to quiet and friendly and very reasonably priced at $85. I had the Little Room with shared bath.

I grabbed my stuff and headed north. Next problem was that the maps I had printed were from the rental car place to my next B&B in Woodstock, Vermont. I did remember that I had to get off the Interstate near Concord and there a couple of historic sites to see there which might be worth a stop. Nonetheless, I was surprised to arrive there so soon. I thought Concord MA was just delightful. I visited Louisa May Alcott's house and the North Bridge and was cruising the little gift stores in the main street and considering if I had time for a visit to Walden Pond after a late lunch when I made my discovery. I was actually in Concord MA and not Concord NH! I was actually rather a long way from my destination and no idea how to get from one to the other.
I never did get to visit Concord NH.
Back on the interstate, I was terrified that I would be inadvertently heading back to Boston. But luckily I crossed over into New Hampshire and then into Vermont and just as night fell, I arrived at my accommodation, the Applebutter Inn, a lovely historic home with antique furniture located just out of town. This was one of my treats for myself after days of driving. So not my usual low budget accommodation.
The roads are narrow, winding and hilly which causes one to hesitate heading too far afield for dinner- but, no choice! I followed the innkeeper Michael's advise and headed off to Firestone's restaurant for chicken pot pie, and got safely home to sleep in my antique bed.

Next day, fortified by a delicious breakfast, I set off an a drive to an apple orchard along a quiet country road - amazing views of foliage across rolling green fields with grazing cows. Quite the contrast with the big cities, ocean and desert views I've had so far and very beautiful. Luckily I struck peak foliage and the range of colours was impressive. I then visited the Billings farm and museum, donated to the public by one of the Rockefellers. The displays included actual cooking of applesauce and cookies on the woods stove. It all makes it seem so romantic and wholesome, you forget that those days were hard work for all involved. Unfortunately, somewhere in the long grass, I realised the battery had fallen out of my camera. I had a disposable camera, but one can't be quite so 'snap-happy' when every picture must count. And this was no place to have to be discriminating.

I went into the town of Woodstock but, as expected, no camera shops. I bought another disposable camera and promptly left on the shop’s counter and was back at the car by the time I realized. Back to the stores again! I then drove out to the Vermont Horse County Store with a huge range of saddles and all things horse. By then it was raining so the search for somewhere for dinner was kind of scary. I returned after dinner to read their collection of Martha Stewart magazines.

Carrabella

Loving your report, eigasuki - and as a fellow Aussie, I can relate to the American place name songs which come to mind all the time I travel there - Do you Know the Way to San Jose, By the Time I get to Phoenix,Get your Kicks on Route 66 etc etc - it seems everywhere we travelled, a song from my youth came back - all American. Do you remember "What did Delaware, Boys, - she wore a brand New Jersey, What did Mississip, Boys, she sipped a Minnisota etc?" Makes me wonder why there are so few Aussie place name songs in a similar vein (country and western aside). Maybe today's youth will know some.

I had my third trip (two of them alone) to Disneyland earlier this year, and the song theme there is of course very strong. In my sixties, I had a wonderful day, back to childhood for the day. And at my own pace, with no one else to consider. Way to go!

mari808

I knew it!

I'm guessing you like Japanese movies as well. If you ever do another U.S. trip, how about Hawaii for the International Film Festival? Held every October, 10 days of hundreds of movies, vast majority from Asia, then Pacific Islands, then U.S. and rest of world. There are HIFF travel packages for visitors who come specifically for the movies.

Saw 2 good ones from Japan this year--Love and Honor (part of the Twilight Samurai trilogy) and Kamome Diner, set in Helsinki. I also thrive on movies. Also excellent movies from Vietnam, Hawaii and China. Just a thought!

5alive

Great trip report!

I wouldn't feel a bit guilty for not doing more in Las Vegas. I've been a couple of times and I'm burnt out after a couple of days there.

eigasuki

Great idea,Mari808. That coincides with our spring break. Maybe I can claim it on my tax! Have you seen "Japanese Story" with Toni Collette? Set in the North West here, very sad.

And on with the journey( getting to the end now tho, sob)

Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Play Misty for Me

After a futile search for a camera battery (ringing the local camera stores, etc) I checked out of the B&B and set off on my travels. First stop was Queechee Gorge and the Simon Pearce glassworks (a must-see destination apparently) Lovely glassware and you can see it being made, but expensive and of course, fragile. Then I headed to Hanover to check out Dartmouth College. Got a bit lost and stuck behind a school bus going through some road construction which seemed to stretch for ages through the outer parts of what I think was Lebanon.

Lunch in Hanover and I then set off across country to the other side of New Hampshire. This entailed some narrow mountain roads shrouded in mist to get from the I 91 to the I 93. (well, they’re mountains to me!) The colour in NH has more reds and it is more mountainous. Very beautiful, but in places very misty and limited visibility so it was a bit challenging, especially as I wasn't entirely sure I was on the right road. This was where I realized that I was all alone in the mist with limited visibility on a strange, winding, hilly road with no traffic. No-one knew where I was not even me. I suddenly realized I was a Long way from home – glad my mother didn’t know! At Lincoln I reached the long anticipated Kancamagus Highway but unfortunately one couldn’t see a thing, at times not even the road ahead.

I stopped off in Conway where there are numerous outlet stores. The camera shop didn't have my battery (that's an old camera, we don't carry those) so - I bought a new camera! Thank goodness for the good exchange rate. I don’t usually buy such things with no research but a trip to scenic locations is no place to be without a camera.

Destination, the Carter Notch Inn in Jackson, NH. I arrived just in time to join the evening drinks in front of the roaring log fire.
Thursday, October 13, 2007
The Long and Winding Road

I had an excellent day Thursday despite the cloudy misty weather with occasional light rain. After a hearty breakfast (and very raucous, a great group of friendly people, much laughter) I set off for the Glen Ellis falls which is quite close to Jackson and located in the National Park. Bought the day pass to display on the dashboard, set out under the road and walked about half a mile to the falls. You have to go through an underpass to get there.

Back in the car and headed up the highway to the turnoff near the covered bridge store and the road works. Next stop - Diana's baths, a series of rockpools and cascades. There was another short hike to the falls and no-one else around. I did have a few doubts about the wisdom of setting off through the forest all alone but decided that the odds of lurking axe-murderers was probably quite low. Onto Echo Lake (lovely reflections, pity it wasn't sunnier or indeed, sunny at all.) The weather did clear a little as I drove to the top of Cathedral Ledge with awesome views across the countryside. Truly spectacular. I then drove the loop northwards past Crawford Notch and Bretton Woods to Franconia and then to Cannon Mountain where I took the scenic cable to the top of the mountain.

By then it was getting on in the afternoon so I headed homeward. Kancamagus Scenic Highway was even foggier than the previous day so I took the shortcut over Bear Notch Drive (closed in winter!) where the visibility was better and, more important, the traffic lighter - no tour buses.

Friday, October 12, 2007
Raindrops keep Falling on my Head

Friday was very wet and steady rain which did not inspire one to drive so I thought it would be good to have a rest day. It seemed a good day to laze around and just read but there were all those outlet stores just near. I’m not a shopper but thought I may pick up some bargains.
I spent the morning browsing the outlet shops. I was fascinated with the numerous cars with Canadian licence plates. You just don’t see international plates in Australia, especially on the west coast and of course, only seven state plates (I’m counting NT, pedants) By afternoon it was starting to clear up so I set off for Maine so I could check another state off my list (up to eight now!) In the town of Fryeburg I got some money from the ATM, bought some apples to contribute to the Maine economy and headed back to New Hampshire - State motto - "Live Free or Die"- being careful to follow the instructions issued by the frequent signs urging one to "Brake for Moose - It could Save Your Life-Hundreds of Collisions". I stopped off at “For Your Paws Only” where there’s a dog bakery and make-your-own dog sundaes available in addition to the dog outfits and all the usual pet shop stuff. There sure are some pampered pooches in the US.
I really loved New Hampshire, though the weather wasn’t good to me. But apparently they need it – they’re having a drought. Huh? THAT’s a drought? I’ll show you a drought. It seemed to me to be in some kind of time warp. It reminded me of the America I used to see in movies and on TV when I was a kid. I loved the low key down home feel which seemed to me in contrast to Woodstock which I found somewhat precious.
Dinner at the Inn next door with the crowd enjoying the Patriots red Sox game. Great atmosphere.

mari808

What a trip -- coast to coast, beautiful telling observations, nice writing. Especially like the atmospheric notes -- misty roads, shimmering golden candles in the trees, holiday atmosphere.

Japanese Story opened HIFF a couple years ago. Thought it was killer, a good portrayal of Japanese repression colliding with Australian free-spiritedness (or Australian overwork-related repression being ironically unleashed by Japanese repression).

Keep checking hiff.org -- fall fest just ended, but new schedules for spring and fall '08 will be up in a few months.

eigasuki

Thanks - I've bookmarked that link for future reference.

Thanks for your kind words. I just noticed I have a typo in the title. How embarassing! (Can we fix that, editors? It should of course be Awesome.

eigasuki

Sunday, October 15, 2007

I left New Hampshire on Saturday morning when at last the sun had come out and it was a lovely sunny day for the drive south. Those mountains actually have tops!

I managed to avoid the mayhem around the outlet malls and by 11.00 I was at Weir's Beach at Lake Winnepesaukee, just in time to catch the Hobo Railway - a scenic railway -for a short trip around the lake, which was very nice. Lots of holiday cabins ranging from the original tiny cabins to luxury condos and private estates with their own marinas.

The drive into Boston was easier than I feared. I just hoped the homing device the car seemed to have when trying to leave would work for the return trip as the directions I had downloaded were confusing.
I easily found the exit from the Interstate (thanks again to the signs for Tufts University -) and onto Mystic Parkway and Mass Ave, where I sat in traffic for quite a while and toughed my way through one insane ‘intersection’ and after three circuits of Harvard Square, found the entry to the parking garage where I had to leave the car.

As it was such a lovely day, I caught the T to Park Street station and walked from there to my accommodation the College Club of Boston, situated in a lovely old building on Commonwealth Avenue, a beautiful tree lined street just off Boston Public Gardens. I deposited my stuff and set off for Newbury Street, the upscale (high end, as they say here) shopping district. I went to the Skywalk on the 50th floor of the Prudential Building where there were amazing 360 degree views over the city, to the islands etc. There was an audio guide so it was very interesting Great visibility too.

On Sunday morning I did the Duck Tour, which goes around the city and then onto the river in amphibious vehicles from WW2. There was a Walk for Breast Cancer going on in the city, thousands walking on both sides of the river and over the bridges.

I originally thought of Boston as the place to pick up and return the rental car and hadn’t had much interest in actually seeing any of it. However in just a day and a bit I got to see much more than I thought I would and it really grew on me. My first impressions were that it was somewhat scruffy and far too many homeless (ooh, what are all these people lining up for? A concert? No, a soup kitchen) but there is so much more than that and I really had a great, albeit sort, time there.

Early afternoon I caught the Acela to New York. People on Fodors seem to be very critical of Amtrak and the rail system but this train was on time, clean and very comfortable – comparable with good trains anywhere. It was also at full capacity by the time we reached New York. I’m a great fan of train travel and prefer it to planes anytime. I really enjoyed resting in my comfortable train seat enjoying the views from the train as it travelled right along the coast of Rhode Island and Connecticut (two more states on my list, or doesn't that count?) Very much enjoyed the views of all the boats and coastal views and before I knew it the view was of New York City itself.

The train arrived on time and then it was a mad scramble to get yourself and your belongings off the train, especially as my luggage was buried underneath plenty of others. Penn Station however, was something of a shock - narrow platforms, single aisle escalators and general grubbiness and congestion. Suffice to say, nothing like a major Japanese railway station or even a London one.

However I eventually fought my way through the throngs to the exit and emerged to find myself opposite the Pennsylvania Hotel. From there it was only a few short blocks to my hotel, The Herald Square on 31st Street, easily found behind the scaffolding. Having had great luck with hotel rooms so far, this is a reality check. After reading all the posts about New York hotel prices I was fearing the worst as this one was such a great price and seldom mentioned. I knew by the price not to expect much but this room is tinier than any of the tiny rooms I had in Japan and the decor is not the greatest either. However, it had every thing I need ( a bed, a bathroom, even a TV) and there's an elevator, and I was seldom in it so it worked out just fine. Clientele seemed to be mostly Europeans. And the location is good, a couple of buildings from 5th Avenue and not far from Empire State Building.

For the first time on the trip I felt a bit nervous about the Big City so I set to see how far up Fifth Avenue I dared to go. Quite quickly I came upon a line of people queueing up under some scaffolding. Why? Of course it was the Empire State Building. I left that for another time, there was a one hour wait. I actually got as far as Times Square which, having been to Tokyo, I found somewhat underwhelming. Grabbed a couple of hot dogs at papaya Dog near the hotel and called it a day.

NorCalif

Eigasuki -

I'm really enjoying your trip report.

I visited Australia many years ago (back in the 80's). At the time, it seemed to me that the people I met there who had ever been to the US had all done a "standard" tour which included only LA and Las Vegas, with a "drive-by" of the Grand Canyon. They all talked about how "hot, dry, and crowded" the US is!

It used to frustrate me so much that that was their only image of the US, that I have entertained myself many times on trips here in the States making up imaginary itineraries for foreign visitors. (It's a great way to look at things in your own country - trying to imagine whether a given sight, activity, restaurant, etc. is one you would recommend to people from overseas.)

Anyway, I'm so glad you had the time, energy, and sense of adventure to experience more than just the "hot, dry, and crowded" parts of the US. ;->

easytraveler

Just came across this thread and finding it a wonderful read. Thanks so much for sharing your adventures!

MP07950

What a wonderful trip report! Looking forward to reading about more of your adventures!

eigasuki

How odd, NorCalif. Most people I know do Niagara Falls etc. A lot's changed since the 80s of course. You certainly do look at your own area with fresh eyes after you've traveled. It makes you appreciate what you might otherwise take for granted.

We're nearly done here...

Monday, October 15, 2007
New York, New York

Today I wandered down Fifth Avenue, Public Library, St Patrick's, Rockefeller Center, all the places you hear so much about and there they are for real. There were many firetrucks, ladders etc parked outside St Pats and inside it seemed they were having a briefing of sorts. I watched the skating at Rockefeller center, wishing I could skate or at least was young enough to risk falling down. Also joined the throngs watching the filming of the Today Show outside NBC studios. It was Suze Orman who I only knew because my friend in LV had shown me a tape of the time she had rung with a question. Her message today –There’s good debt and stupid debt; don’t get into stupid debt.
I went into the Trump Tower and then had a good look at Tiffany's - found a lovely ring I liked - a pink diamond. Somewhat befuddled by all the zeroes on the end with no decimal points in sights, I concluded that the things I wanted were maybe beyond my Visa card limit and there seemed a lack of sugar daddies looking for someone to indulge.
Next stop Central Park. One of the disadvantages of traveling solo is that things like a carriage ride become just a little pricy. They’re not at all into giving discounts for a lighter load for their horse.
I spent rather a long time exploring Central Park and covered most of the main features in the lower half. As I had resisted temptation at Tiffany's, I felt entitled to treat myself to lunch at Tavern on the Green, a most delicious lobster bisque. My original plan to get to the Guggenheim was deferred as by now it was half way through the afternoon and all the Nannies and Au pairs were taking the children to the park for their play. I caught the subway back to the hotel for a little R&R and then it was off to the theatre. I had bought tickets to "Avenue Q" online through Broadway box. After the late lunch I wasn’t hungry so just had some cheesecake at Juniors, which I’d read about here.

I was somewhat surprised that there was a huge line to get in but that became apparent when we were admitted – there’s no lobby to speak of, you go straight to your seat with only minutes to spare by the time you got in and a rush for the restrooms for many. I absolutely loved Avenue Q. I have some of the songs on a CD and kind of knew the story but didn’t expect to laugh and feel sad AND get a message at the same time. Just like Sesame Street; but so not!
I felt more relaxed tonight and braved the subway and the short walk back to the hotel, holding firm to my belief that there’s safety in numbers and well lit areas and mindful of my surroundings. I never really felt uneasy.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Bright Lights, Big City
I began the day cursing inconsiderate people banging doors and their luggage in the wee small hours, only to discover it was the cleaning staff and it was in fact, 9.30! So, up and at 'em.

Those who made fun of people for packing duct tape will be interested to know it came in handy holding my new battery in place in the old camera, where the dodgy fastening on the battery compartment was the cause of losing the original battery in Vermont. After checking out prices at several NY camera stores, I finally bought a new battery at the camera shop on the corner near the hotel. Should have walked that direction sooner!

First stop of the day was the subway to Washington Square and the NY University area. Then I explored some of Greenwich Village, guide book in hand but also following a cycle tour as much as I was able. Even passed a lovely little coffee shop where many same sex couple were enjoying a mid morning break, on the corner of Gay Street.

I was cursing the number of huge trucks ruining the ambience when it suddenly became apparent it was a film crew and I stumbled (almost literally) onto a filming location for "Law and Order" Various people armed with walkie talkies, but otherwise not at all official looking, were having a hard time keeping people out of the street and getting all sorts of attitude from the locals. Eventually a man on a bike, followed by a guy running in hot pursuit zoomed past us and that was the scene. It was a "wrap" and an "episode wrap" and I proceeded on my way.

I found my way back to the subway to South Ferry Station and then onto the Staten Island ferry for some good shots of the Statue of Liberty etc.

On the return I explored the Battery Park area and on to Wall Street where I came across the new Tiffany's store. They were handing out champagne and iced cookies and next thing I knew I had purchased some silver earrings! From there I went to the opposite end of the retail spectrum - Century 21 where there is much discount shopping to be had if you like that sort of thing. However I was overwhelmed by the choice and the crowds and escaped by the nearest exit to find myself opposite a huge construction site. Of course it was the site of the World Trade Center – There isn’t really much to see so I headed off, but came to I went into the nearby church St Paul’s, which was used to feed and help the workers after 9/11. They have a number of displays, very tastefully done, recognising the work done by the volunteers. It was a very moving experience.

From there I went past the City Hall where there was some protest or gathering on the steps (blocked off from regular passers by) and numerous TV crews covering the story.

By now it was getting towards sunset so seemed to me to be a good time to set off across the Brooklyn Bridge. Very much enjoyed the walk over along with numerous others and some great shots of the bridge and skyline. I found Grimaldi's the much praised pizza shop (best pizza in NYC? maybe) Timed it well too as they had just done their daily oven clean and when I arrived no-one had any pizza and there were many spare tables. It soon grew very crowded and when I left there was a huge queue down the sidewalk.

The walk back was lovely with all the lights on and lots of joggers and cyclists so it wasn't spooky at all. The subway from there was a new line I hadn't taken yet - and a new train. It even had the route displayed and lit announcements of the next station! I got off in Park Avenue just a block or two from 'home'. It had been a long day.

eigasuki

How odd, NorCalif. Most people I know do Niagara Falls etc. A lot's changed since the 80s of course. You certainly do look at your own area with fresh eyes after you've traveled. It makes you appreciate what you might otherwise take for granted.

We're nearly done here...

Monday, October 15, 2007
New York, New York

Today I wandered down Fifth Avenue, Public Library, St Patrick's, Rockefeller Center, all the places you hear so much about and there they are for real. There were many firetrucks, ladders etc parked outside St Pats and inside it seemed they were having a briefing of sorts. I watched the skating at Rockefeller center, wishing I could skate or at least was young enough to risk falling down. Also joined the throngs watching the filming of the Today Show outside NBC studios. It was Suze Orman who I only knew because my friend in LV had shown me a tape of the time she had rung with a question. Her message today –There’s good debt and stupid debt; don’t get into stupid debt.
I went into the Trump Tower and then had a good look at Tiffany's - found a lovely ring I liked - a pink diamond. Somewhat befuddled by all the zeroes on the end with no decimal points in sights, I concluded that the things I wanted were maybe beyond my Visa card limit and there seemed a lack of sugar daddies looking for someone to indulge.
Next stop Central Park. One of the disadvantages of traveling solo is that things like a carriage ride become just a little pricy. They’re not at all into giving discounts for a lighter load for their horse.
I spent rather a long time exploring Central Park and covered most of the main features in the lower half. As I had resisted temptation at Tiffany's, I felt entitled to treat myself to lunch at Tavern on the Green, a most delicious lobster bisque. My original plan to get to the Guggenheim was deferred as by now it was half way through the afternoon and all the Nannies and Au pairs were taking the children to the park for their play. I caught the subway back to the hotel for a little R&R and then it was off to the theatre. I had bought tickets to "Avenue Q" online through Broadway box. After the late lunch I wasn’t hungry so just had some cheesecake at Juniors, which I’d read about here.

I was somewhat surprised that there was a huge line to get in but that became apparent when we were admitted – there’s no lobby to speak of, you go straight to your seat with only minutes to spare by the time you got in and a rush for the restrooms for many. I absolutely loved Avenue Q. I have some of the songs on a CD and kind of knew the story but didn’t expect to laugh and feel sad AND get a message at the same time. Just like Sesame Street; but so not!
I felt more relaxed tonight and braved the subway and the short walk back to the hotel, holding firm to my belief that there’s safety in numbers and well lit areas and mindful of my surroundings. I never really felt uneasy.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Bright Lights, Big City

I began the day cursing inconsiderate people banging doors and their luggage in the wee small hours, only to discover it was the cleaning staff and it was in fact, 9.30! So, up and at 'em.

Those who made fun of people for packing duct tape will be interested to know it came in handy holding my new battery in place in the old camera, where the dodgy fastening on the battery compartment was the cause of losing the original battery in Vermont. After checking out prices at several NY camera stores, I finally bought a new battery at the camera shop on the corner near the hotel. Should have walked that direction sooner!

First stop of the day was the subway to Washington Square and the NY University area. Then I explored some of Greenwich Village, guide book in hand but also following a cycle tour as much as I was able. Even passed a lovely little coffee shop where many same sex couple were enjoying a mid morning break, on the corner of Gay Street.

I was cursing the number of huge trucks ruining the ambience when it suddenly became apparent it was a film crew and I stumbled (almost literally) onto a filming location for "Law and Order" Various people armed with walkie talkies, but otherwise not at all official looking, were having a hard time keeping people out of the street and getting all sorts of attitude from the locals. Eventually a man on a bike, followed by a guy running in hot pursuit zoomed past us and that was the scene. It was a "wrap" and an "episode wrap" and I proceeded on my way.

I found my way back to the subway to South Ferry Station and then onto the Staten Island ferry for some good shots of the Statue of Liberty etc.

On the return I explored the Battery Park area and on to Wall Street where I came across the new Tiffany's store. They were handing out champagne and iced cookies and next thing I knew I had purchased some silver earrings! From there I went to the opposite end of the retail spectrum - Century 21 where there is much discount shopping to be had if you like that sort of thing. However I was overwhelmed by the choice and the crowds and escaped by the nearest exit to find myself opposite a huge construction site. Of course it was the site of the World Trade Center – There isn’t really much to see so I headed off, but came to I went into the nearby church St Paul’s, which was used to feed and help the workers after 9/11. They have a number of displays, very tastefully done, recognising the work done by the volunteers. It was a very moving experience.

From there I went past the City Hall where there was some protest or gathering on the steps (blocked off from regular passers by) and numerous TV crews covering the story.

By now it was getting towards sunset so seemed to me to be a good time to set off across the Brooklyn Bridge. Very much enjoyed the walk over along with numerous others and some great shots of the bridge and skyline. I found Grimaldi's the much praised pizza shop (best pizza in NYC? maybe) Timed it well too as they had just done their daily oven clean and when I arrived no-one had any pizza and there were many spare tables. It soon grew very crowded and when I left there was a huge queue down the sidewalk.

The walk back was lovely with all the lights on and lots of joggers and cyclists so it wasn't spooky at all. The subway from there was a new line I hadn't taken yet - and a new train. It even had the route displayed and lit announcements of the next station! I got off in Park Avenue just a block or two from 'home'. It had been a long day.