This is a trip I would like to redo now that I am older and have a digital camera. Las Vegas was nice but when you’re only 18 it wasn’t that exciting for me and when your aunt is asleep by 9 PM you don’t get much nightlife. Highlights were the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and San Francisco. I had the movie The Rock on the brain when I was there.
The West 2001
Started in Los Angeles. The Lakers had won the title the day before and I have the championship edition of the LA Times somewhere. Saw the Hollywood sign briefly but my highlight was Mann’s Chinese Theater so I could see Douglas Fairbanks. How did he do such magnificent stunts with such little feet? I also asked for Raisinettes but I did not stand in Hedy Lamarr’s shoes or tell Herman to look at me.
Went to Palm Springs and then into Arizona. Saw the ancient ruins at Montezuma’s Castle and then Sedona and into Phoenix.
Then up to the Grand Canyon. Took a helicopter trip over it, still the only time I was ever in a helicopter.
Over the Hoover Dam and then into Vegas. Being 18 I really couldn’t do much. Did see the Blue Man Group.
Then to Yosemite.
And then to San Francisco. Went out to Alcatraz. Welcome to the Rock!
Lots of stuff on the way back to LA. Hearst Castle, the Santa Barbara Mission and Big Sur.