Friday, July 31, 2009
Below is a slide show of the photos I took at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. I hope the captions are correct.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Indianapolis - Day 1
Friday, July 31, 2009
My day started out at about 11:30AM(my wake up time). I was up and out the door about 1:15PM. After about a 30 minute wait for the bus, I headed downtown.
My first stop was to the Soldiers & Sailors Monument. The observation deck was closed due to renovations, but there was a museum located in the basement of the monument. In the museum there were various displays related to the Civil War.
After the S & S Monument, I went to the nearby visitor's center to pick up some maps and pamphlets on tourist activities to do while in town.
Next, I went to the Indiana State Capitol Building. Since the building was opened to the public, I went in and walked around; it is a very nice building.
After the self-guided tour of the Statehouse, I walked along the canal for awhile. I finished up my tour with a soup and a sandwich at a local bar.
On my way back, I stayed on the bus to go to the Target store near the hostel. I didn't want to return to the dingy local supermarket with the expired food sold at a discount. When I finished shopping at Target, I almost missed the last bus back to the hostel. The bus driver arrived late at the bus stop, but seemed to be trying to making up the time by speeding. Yes speeding!
Post Date - Sunday, August 30, 2009 2:51PM
My day started out at about 11:30AM(my wake up time). I was up and out the door about 1:15PM. After about a 30 minute wait for the bus, I headed downtown.My first stop was to the Soldiers & Sailors Monument. The observation deck was closed due to renovations, but there was a museum located in the basement of the monument. In the museum there were various displays related to the Civil War.
After the S & S Monument, I went to the nearby visitor's center to pick up some maps and pamphlets on tourist activities to do while in town.
Next, I went to the Indiana State Capitol Building. Since the building was opened to the public, I went in and walked around; it is a very nice building.
After the self-guided tour of the Statehouse, I walked along the canal for awhile. I finished up my tour with a soup and a sandwich at a local bar.
On my way back, I stayed on the bus to go to the Target store near the hostel. I didn't want to return to the dingy local supermarket with the expired food sold at a discount. When I finished shopping at Target, I almost missed the last bus back to the hostel. The bus driver arrived late at the bus stop, but seemed to be trying to making up the time by speeding. Yes speeding!
Post Date - Sunday, August 30, 2009 2:51PM
Slide Show - On the Road (From Salt Lake City to Indianapolis)
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Below is my slideshow of various photos I took while on my bus ride from Salt Lake City to Indianapolis(basically rocks, rest stops and mountaintops).
Below is my slideshow of various photos I took while on my bus ride from Salt Lake City to Indianapolis(basically rocks, rest stops and mountaintops).
Friday, August 28, 2009
On the Road
Wednesday, July 29th
Today was my last day in Salt Lake City. I started the day at 5AM. I changed my mind about doing a noisy departure from the hostel. Regular readers of this blog will remember a posting a few weeks ago about a noisy wake up when I had to be up at 5AM.
Sorry, I don't know how to post a link to that entry. If I can figure out how, I will post the link to that specific entry below.
Unbelievable Luck!
If you don't see a link, then you'll know I wasn't able to do it.
Anyway, I was up at 5AM. Other than a problem with returning the room key to the keylock (another "easy automatic service" that was anything but easy or automatic). After about 10 minutes of trying to get the key in the keylock box, and trying to call the owner of the hostel, I gave up and shoved the key under the door.
I arrived at the Greyhound station at about 6:30AM. There was already a line about 25 people long. I got behind a trio of ladies who seemed to be ....never mind.
The departure time was suppose to be 7:10AM. The bus departed about 30 minutes late. The last person on should have been the first(a woman in a wheelchair). The bus was packed, but of course you had those who tried to stake out their space by taking up two seats hoping no one would sit next to them. One young lady had her feet up on the second seat next to her, covered in her blanket, sound asleep. The guy in the back was laying down across the three back seats, again sound asleep. I woke up the guy in the back seat. I actually like the back seat right by the bathroom because it is the only seat where you can stretch out your legs. The down side, the very, very down side is when the bathroom is not clean. Not only was the bathroom dirty and stinking up the back of the bus, but person after person kept leaving the seat up causing the back to stink even worse.
I will be on the road until about 6PM tomorrow. There were heavy clouds but luckily no rain. I passed the time reading comics, listening to my MP3 player, and watching the DVD "Disaster Movie". I laughed a couple of time, but the movie was a bit too vulgar for me. On the road, somehow we arrived 1 hour late into Denver. Having to transfer buses in Denver made me a little worry about the late arrival. Also, Greyhound overbooked my transfer bus by an extremely large number. How did I know there was a large number for the overbooking? They needed three buses to get everyone on the road. The good news was that everyone who was suppose to go was able to get a seat. The bad was that I had no time to eat or go to the bathroom. I was a bit annoyed about the late arrival and the overbooking, but I have to say that Greyhound did get me on the road (if a bit delayed), and the ride was not difficult.
Thursday, July 30th
This is a continuation instead of creating a new entry.
Nothing much to report. More time on the road. Towards the end, I realized the two guys seating near me were just released prisoners. The comment about "we're not in jail anymore was the finally confirmation of my suspicion. The envelope showing the prison label "correctional facility..."(sorry, I don't remember). Later, on another bus, there were another two guys having a longer than necessary loud conversation about someone being in prison. For the first time on my bus ride, I felt a bit self-conscious about the "extra" gear I brought with me (MP3 player, DVD player, radio, etc...). But, there weren't any problems.
I arrived in Indianapolis around 7PM. Rather than try for public transportation, I asked the hostel owner for the hostel pick-up service. The hostel turned out to be about 4 miles from downtown.
First impression of the hostel. The hostel had a very warm, comfortable feel. The neighborhood however, was a bit different. The first night there, the nearest store was about a 10 minute walk. Having lived in the inner-city, I had a flash back when I walked into the "local supermarket". Some of the food was out of date, with discount labels for expired food. Frozen foods had freezer burns. There was also a very limited amount of choices(a lot of brands I didn't recognize). The neighborhood seemed to be a mix of low and middle income houses, but seemed relatively okay.
Well, that's about it. First day in Indianapolis. Actually, I should say first evening in Indianapolis. My epal told me months ago that he would only be available for Saturday and Sunday to show me around town, so I won't even bother calling him until Friday evening or Saturday. Since my main goal was to get out of NYC for a while, I told myself that I would just do some solo walking around town. I did meet (online) a couple of locals who said that they might be available for some tour guiding, but I'm not sure if they will or not. Either way, I don't mind doing solo walks around town.
* The attached photo is a picture I took while on the bus on my way to Indianapolis.
Post Date - Friday, August 28, 2009 9:57PM
Today was my last day in Salt Lake City. I started the day at 5AM. I changed my mind about doing a noisy departure from the hostel. Regular readers of this blog will remember a posting a few weeks ago about a noisy wake up when I had to be up at 5AM.Sorry, I don't know how to post a link to that entry. If I can figure out how, I will post the link to that specific entry below.
Unbelievable Luck!
If you don't see a link, then you'll know I wasn't able to do it.
Anyway, I was up at 5AM. Other than a problem with returning the room key to the keylock (another "easy automatic service" that was anything but easy or automatic). After about 10 minutes of trying to get the key in the keylock box, and trying to call the owner of the hostel, I gave up and shoved the key under the door.
I arrived at the Greyhound station at about 6:30AM. There was already a line about 25 people long. I got behind a trio of ladies who seemed to be ....never mind.
The departure time was suppose to be 7:10AM. The bus departed about 30 minutes late. The last person on should have been the first(a woman in a wheelchair). The bus was packed, but of course you had those who tried to stake out their space by taking up two seats hoping no one would sit next to them. One young lady had her feet up on the second seat next to her, covered in her blanket, sound asleep. The guy in the back was laying down across the three back seats, again sound asleep. I woke up the guy in the back seat. I actually like the back seat right by the bathroom because it is the only seat where you can stretch out your legs. The down side, the very, very down side is when the bathroom is not clean. Not only was the bathroom dirty and stinking up the back of the bus, but person after person kept leaving the seat up causing the back to stink even worse.
I will be on the road until about 6PM tomorrow. There were heavy clouds but luckily no rain. I passed the time reading comics, listening to my MP3 player, and watching the DVD "Disaster Movie". I laughed a couple of time, but the movie was a bit too vulgar for me. On the road, somehow we arrived 1 hour late into Denver. Having to transfer buses in Denver made me a little worry about the late arrival. Also, Greyhound overbooked my transfer bus by an extremely large number. How did I know there was a large number for the overbooking? They needed three buses to get everyone on the road. The good news was that everyone who was suppose to go was able to get a seat. The bad was that I had no time to eat or go to the bathroom. I was a bit annoyed about the late arrival and the overbooking, but I have to say that Greyhound did get me on the road (if a bit delayed), and the ride was not difficult.
Thursday, July 30th
This is a continuation instead of creating a new entry.
Nothing much to report. More time on the road. Towards the end, I realized the two guys seating near me were just released prisoners. The comment about "we're not in jail anymore was the finally confirmation of my suspicion. The envelope showing the prison label "correctional facility..."(sorry, I don't remember). Later, on another bus, there were another two guys having a longer than necessary loud conversation about someone being in prison. For the first time on my bus ride, I felt a bit self-conscious about the "extra" gear I brought with me (MP3 player, DVD player, radio, etc...). But, there weren't any problems.
I arrived in Indianapolis around 7PM. Rather than try for public transportation, I asked the hostel owner for the hostel pick-up service. The hostel turned out to be about 4 miles from downtown.
First impression of the hostel. The hostel had a very warm, comfortable feel. The neighborhood however, was a bit different. The first night there, the nearest store was about a 10 minute walk. Having lived in the inner-city, I had a flash back when I walked into the "local supermarket". Some of the food was out of date, with discount labels for expired food. Frozen foods had freezer burns. There was also a very limited amount of choices(a lot of brands I didn't recognize). The neighborhood seemed to be a mix of low and middle income houses, but seemed relatively okay.
Well, that's about it. First day in Indianapolis. Actually, I should say first evening in Indianapolis. My epal told me months ago that he would only be available for Saturday and Sunday to show me around town, so I won't even bother calling him until Friday evening or Saturday. Since my main goal was to get out of NYC for a while, I told myself that I would just do some solo walking around town. I did meet (online) a couple of locals who said that they might be available for some tour guiding, but I'm not sure if they will or not. Either way, I don't mind doing solo walks around town.
* The attached photo is a picture I took while on the bus on my way to Indianapolis.
Post Date - Friday, August 28, 2009 9:57PM
Slide Show - Salt Lake City (Salt Lake & Pizza Place)
Tuesday, July 28th
Since I didn't have any photos (but one), I combined the pizza place photos and the museum photos with the Salt Lake photos.
Since I didn't have any photos (but one), I combined the pizza place photos and the museum photos with the Salt Lake photos.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Salt Lake City - Day 6
Tuesday, July 28th
Today my plan was to get up earlier to be ready for SLC Epal. I was guessing that since we didn't do any touring yesterday, that we would make up for it today. A part of me thought that SLC Epal might even be out in front at 11AM when he calls to say that he was ready.
Unfortunately, I didn't get up as early as I wanted, but it was still early enough to do a quick 30 minute walk through the neighborhood. I returned from my neighborhood walk at about 10:50AM.
Yesterday, SLC Epal said that he would call around 11AM. I mistakenly thought he would call on or before 11AM. I was out on the front porch about 10 minutes to 11AM waiting for the call. 5...10...15 minutes passed and no call.
Twenty minutes and still no call. Around this time, I'm thinking of turning off my phone. I told myself that if SLC Epal didn't call by 11:30AM, I would just go wandering downtown myself.
At 11:24AM, SLC Epal called asking if I was ready. I guessed from the tone of the conversation that he wasn't in the mood for a drive to the Bonneville Salt Flats, so I suggested we just do a local activity, he agreed. 15 minutes later, SLC Epal arrived at the hostel. Next, he asked if I wanted to grab some lunch, but I wasn't really in the mood to eat, so I said I had eaten.
First stop was out to the Great Salt Lake to a place called Saltair
Wow, I love Google and Wikipedia!!!
Saltair was a nice place. From the lack of people there, I think Salt Lake State Park is a hidden secret. I was amazed at the lack of people on the lake shore on the hot day it was. There were a few people, but very few. SLCE told me that due to the high levels of salt, a lot of people will avoid going especially if they have a cut or an open sore. I guess going would be like "pouring salt in an open wound". Sorry, I couldn't resist.
Anyway, we stayed for almost an hour. I got to see brine flies and brine shrimp. The flies were the first things to catch my attention. They moved like a minuscule locust swarm, but were harmless. For those of you around my age (those who remember when MTV only showed music videos, The fall of the Berlin Wall isn't ancient history, etc...I think you get the point). Anyway, some of you might remember ads for "Sea-Monkeys". For those of you (who like me)have never tried to buy sea-monkeys, you now know what they are....brine shrimp.
Next stop was over to the Kennecott Copper Mine pit. The Kennecott is the largest man-made excavation (meaning largest man-made hole in the ground). I thought the museum located on the grounds was very interesting, we stayed about an hour.
After the copper mine, SLCE knew of a place he used to go to when he was a kid. The place was called "Gilgal Garden". It was an interesting garden. I was impressed that SLCE knew of this small out of the way place. I was a bit embarrassed that having lived in NYC for most of my life, I didn't know more than the main tourist attractions...barely. I was also in a better mood than I started out with. I thought this day was going to be a waste, but it turned out to be very enjoyable and informative.
Being in a better mood (and hungry), I offered to buy lunch/dinner. SLCE knew of a well-known pizza place near the University of Utah he's been to on a few occasions. I paid for the meal and SLCE left the tip.
Since we were near the Utah Museum of Natural History, we thought we would stop by. The price was $7 per adult. I offered to pay the admission fee for the both of us. At first SLCE was a bit concerned about the price, but he agreed. However, the lady behind the desk was very nice. Since the museum was going to close in about 30 minutes, she let us go in for free.
About 6PM, SLCE dropped me off at the hostel. I gave a couple of NYC souvenirs for SLCE and his friend (who also help provide ideas for locations to explore while I was visiting Salt Lake City.
Since it was still a bit early, I decided to do a practice trip to the Greyhound station to make sure I would be able to leave tomorrow morning with enough time. My original plan was to just call a taxi, but I found out the Trax light rail had a stop at the transit terminal. The results were 12 minutes to walk to the "Fare Free Zone*", then the Trax ride. In total, it was about a 40 minute trip.
*Salt Lake City has a fare free zone downtown where you can ride public transportation for free. The FF Zone starts one station stop away from the hostel and ends at the transportation terminal (Amtrak, Greyhound and local buses).
I walked back to the hostel (50 minutes). I showered, did laundry, ate dinner and packed up. Tomorrow, I will have an approx. 2 day bus ride to Indianapolis.
* The attached photo is a view of the Kennecott smelting stack viewed from the Saltair resort.
Post Date - Wednesday, August 26, 2009 1:07PM
Today my plan was to get up earlier to be ready for SLC Epal. I was guessing that since we didn't do any touring yesterday, that we would make up for it today. A part of me thought that SLC Epal might even be out in front at 11AM when he calls to say that he was ready.Unfortunately, I didn't get up as early as I wanted, but it was still early enough to do a quick 30 minute walk through the neighborhood. I returned from my neighborhood walk at about 10:50AM.
Yesterday, SLC Epal said that he would call around 11AM. I mistakenly thought he would call on or before 11AM. I was out on the front porch about 10 minutes to 11AM waiting for the call. 5...10...15 minutes passed and no call.
Twenty minutes and still no call. Around this time, I'm thinking of turning off my phone. I told myself that if SLC Epal didn't call by 11:30AM, I would just go wandering downtown myself.
At 11:24AM, SLC Epal called asking if I was ready. I guessed from the tone of the conversation that he wasn't in the mood for a drive to the Bonneville Salt Flats, so I suggested we just do a local activity, he agreed. 15 minutes later, SLC Epal arrived at the hostel. Next, he asked if I wanted to grab some lunch, but I wasn't really in the mood to eat, so I said I had eaten.
First stop was out to the Great Salt Lake to a place called Saltair
Wow, I love Google and Wikipedia!!!
Saltair was a nice place. From the lack of people there, I think Salt Lake State Park is a hidden secret. I was amazed at the lack of people on the lake shore on the hot day it was. There were a few people, but very few. SLCE told me that due to the high levels of salt, a lot of people will avoid going especially if they have a cut or an open sore. I guess going would be like "pouring salt in an open wound". Sorry, I couldn't resist.
Anyway, we stayed for almost an hour. I got to see brine flies and brine shrimp. The flies were the first things to catch my attention. They moved like a minuscule locust swarm, but were harmless. For those of you around my age (those who remember when MTV only showed music videos, The fall of the Berlin Wall isn't ancient history, etc...I think you get the point). Anyway, some of you might remember ads for "Sea-Monkeys". For those of you (who like me)have never tried to buy sea-monkeys, you now know what they are....brine shrimp.
Next stop was over to the Kennecott Copper Mine pit. The Kennecott is the largest man-made excavation (meaning largest man-made hole in the ground). I thought the museum located on the grounds was very interesting, we stayed about an hour.
After the copper mine, SLCE knew of a place he used to go to when he was a kid. The place was called "Gilgal Garden". It was an interesting garden. I was impressed that SLCE knew of this small out of the way place. I was a bit embarrassed that having lived in NYC for most of my life, I didn't know more than the main tourist attractions...barely. I was also in a better mood than I started out with. I thought this day was going to be a waste, but it turned out to be very enjoyable and informative.
Being in a better mood (and hungry), I offered to buy lunch/dinner. SLCE knew of a well-known pizza place near the University of Utah he's been to on a few occasions. I paid for the meal and SLCE left the tip.
Since we were near the Utah Museum of Natural History, we thought we would stop by. The price was $7 per adult. I offered to pay the admission fee for the both of us. At first SLCE was a bit concerned about the price, but he agreed. However, the lady behind the desk was very nice. Since the museum was going to close in about 30 minutes, she let us go in for free.
About 6PM, SLCE dropped me off at the hostel. I gave a couple of NYC souvenirs for SLCE and his friend (who also help provide ideas for locations to explore while I was visiting Salt Lake City.
Since it was still a bit early, I decided to do a practice trip to the Greyhound station to make sure I would be able to leave tomorrow morning with enough time. My original plan was to just call a taxi, but I found out the Trax light rail had a stop at the transit terminal. The results were 12 minutes to walk to the "Fare Free Zone*", then the Trax ride. In total, it was about a 40 minute trip.
*Salt Lake City has a fare free zone downtown where you can ride public transportation for free. The FF Zone starts one station stop away from the hostel and ends at the transportation terminal (Amtrak, Greyhound and local buses).
I walked back to the hostel (50 minutes). I showered, did laundry, ate dinner and packed up. Tomorrow, I will have an approx. 2 day bus ride to Indianapolis.
* The attached photo is a view of the Kennecott smelting stack viewed from the Saltair resort.
Post Date - Wednesday, August 26, 2009 1:07PM
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Joseph Smith
While doing the captions for my slideshow, I came across some information about Joseph Smith. Since I know very little about him, I found the articles interesting reading. The first article was from Googling Joseph Smith and wives. The other article came from one of my favorite sites, Wikipedia.Yes I know, you can't believe everything you read on the internet, but even if some of this is true...
I'm...amazed.
Treasure hunter to prophet to having about 20 wives (as young as 14 years old, and marrying sisters as their priest and then later as their husband) and becoming founder of a religion(Mormons).
Wow!
Below is a link to one of the articles I found through a Google search.
JOSEPH SMITH
Post Date - Tuesday, August 25, 2009 1:03PM
Monday, August 24, 2009
Salt Lake City - Day 5
Monday, July 27th
The plan was to take a drive over to the Bonneville Salt Flats. However, things didn't work out this time around.
SLC Epal was suppose to call about 11AM about seeing the Bonneville Salt Flats, but called at 10AM to say "something came up at home and wouldn't be available until 1PM or 2PM". Since I was up and ready, I decided to go for a walk instead of sitting around and waiting. I ended up returning to Temple Square, the tourist center, and Brigham Young's Park. On my way back, I stopped at a nearby 7-eleven. I was hungry, but I wasn't in a mood for a sit down meal. I brought a sandwich and juice. I returned at 1PM and hung out at the hostel.
At 2PM, SLC Epal called to say that he "would need another 30 or 40 minutes. The truck is still in my yard." To be honest, I was a bit confused with this statement. Remembering the tour of his home, I didn't remember seeing a truck. Since SLC Epal didn't elaborate, I didn't ask any questions. I just took it as a personal matter.
I ended up falling asleep for awhile. SLC Epal left a message saying that it was probably too late to go to the Bonneville Salt Flats. The time stamp of the message was 3:45PM. SLC Epal asked for me to return his call, but I ended up going back to sleep.
SLC Epal called again later -- Yes, I did pick up this time. He called to say that he would call again tomorrow around 11AM and maybe go tomorrow to the Bonneville Salt Flats. The "maybe" told be he probably didn't want to go, but I didn't say anything. Then, SLC Epal asked if I wanted to "go grab some dinner". To be honest (since I was probably still half sleep), I didn't know what he was asking. Since there was no change in his tone or manner of speaking(he asked very casually), I didn't get the impression that there was anything wrong today. What was going through my mind, I might have just been overthinking the day. A part of me thought I would either be offering to pick up the tab since SLC Epal was driving, or we would just split the check. Those were the only thoughts that came to mind. Since I wasn't in a talkative mood, I took a pass. I decided to do a load of laundry and call it a night.
Later, I check his blog to see if SLC Epal would post something about his day, I was still a bit confused about "the truck". It turns out he was moving a truck. I didn't recognize the truck, and I didn't recognize the house, or the high weeds, but I just thought it was a personal matter and didn't bring it up.
Post Date - Monday, August 24, 2009 11:58PM
The plan was to take a drive over to the Bonneville Salt Flats. However, things didn't work out this time around.SLC Epal was suppose to call about 11AM about seeing the Bonneville Salt Flats, but called at 10AM to say "something came up at home and wouldn't be available until 1PM or 2PM". Since I was up and ready, I decided to go for a walk instead of sitting around and waiting. I ended up returning to Temple Square, the tourist center, and Brigham Young's Park. On my way back, I stopped at a nearby 7-eleven. I was hungry, but I wasn't in a mood for a sit down meal. I brought a sandwich and juice. I returned at 1PM and hung out at the hostel.
At 2PM, SLC Epal called to say that he "would need another 30 or 40 minutes. The truck is still in my yard." To be honest, I was a bit confused with this statement. Remembering the tour of his home, I didn't remember seeing a truck. Since SLC Epal didn't elaborate, I didn't ask any questions. I just took it as a personal matter.
I ended up falling asleep for awhile. SLC Epal left a message saying that it was probably too late to go to the Bonneville Salt Flats. The time stamp of the message was 3:45PM. SLC Epal asked for me to return his call, but I ended up going back to sleep.
SLC Epal called again later -- Yes, I did pick up this time. He called to say that he would call again tomorrow around 11AM and maybe go tomorrow to the Bonneville Salt Flats. The "maybe" told be he probably didn't want to go, but I didn't say anything. Then, SLC Epal asked if I wanted to "go grab some dinner". To be honest (since I was probably still half sleep), I didn't know what he was asking. Since there was no change in his tone or manner of speaking(he asked very casually), I didn't get the impression that there was anything wrong today. What was going through my mind, I might have just been overthinking the day. A part of me thought I would either be offering to pick up the tab since SLC Epal was driving, or we would just split the check. Those were the only thoughts that came to mind. Since I wasn't in a talkative mood, I took a pass. I decided to do a load of laundry and call it a night.
Later, I check his blog to see if SLC Epal would post something about his day, I was still a bit confused about "the truck". It turns out he was moving a truck. I didn't recognize the truck, and I didn't recognize the house, or the high weeds, but I just thought it was a personal matter and didn't bring it up.
Post Date - Monday, August 24, 2009 11:58PM
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Salt Lake City - Day 4
Sunday, July 26th
My adventure started about 10:15AM. I retraced my travel route from yesterday, so that I would be sure to find the places I found yesterday by accident. I took the Trax to Fort Douglas. Unfortunately, the Fort was closed.
Next stop was the Red Butte Garden (again, Butte with a long "u"). The Red Butte Garden was a bit of a hike, but well worth it. The garden is locate slightly up the side of a mountain. It was a very nice garden. I liked the layout; just by following the paths, you can go through the whole garden without any difficulty. That's good for people like me who can get lost walking in a straight line.
After the garden, I went to the Hogle Zoo and spent about 2 1/2 hours there. The zoo was small, but it was nice.
After the zoo, I walked back to the hostel again (1 1/2 hour walk). I had dinner at KFC and called it a night.
I'll put together a slideshow of my pictures another time.
To keep with my personal photo maximum of 25 for a slideshow, I am posting two photos that I deleted from my Red Butte Garden file to stay within the 25 max limit. Since my Hogle Zoo file has less photos, I didn't post any with this blog entry.
Post Date - Sunday, July 23, 2009 10:38PM
My adventure started about 10:15AM. I retraced my travel route from yesterday, so that I would be sure to find the places I found yesterday by accident. I took the Trax to Fort Douglas. Unfortunately, the Fort was closed.
Next stop was the Red Butte Garden (again, Butte with a long "u"). The Red Butte Garden was a bit of a hike, but well worth it. The garden is locate slightly up the side of a mountain. It was a very nice garden. I liked the layout; just by following the paths, you can go through the whole garden without any difficulty. That's good for people like me who can get lost walking in a straight line. After the garden, I went to the Hogle Zoo and spent about 2 1/2 hours there. The zoo was small, but it was nice.
After the zoo, I walked back to the hostel again (1 1/2 hour walk). I had dinner at KFC and called it a night.
I'll put together a slideshow of my pictures another time.
To keep with my personal photo maximum of 25 for a slideshow, I am posting two photos that I deleted from my Red Butte Garden file to stay within the 25 max limit. Since my Hogle Zoo file has less photos, I didn't post any with this blog entry.
Post Date - Sunday, July 23, 2009 10:38PM
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Private School Plaque (Correction)
Here is the plaque explaining the Brigham Young Private School. The Social Hall mentioned in a previous slideshow was not a private school for the exclusive use of Brigham Young's children.
Sorry for the confusion.
For those who might like more information on the church's orgins, click on the link below:
MORMONS
Sorry for the confusion.
For those who might like more information on the church's orgins, click on the link below:
MORMONS
Friday, August 21, 2009
Salt Lake City - Day 3
Saturday, July 25th
Since SLC Epal started working part-time this summer, He told me that there would be days when he wouldn't be available. So this weekend, I was on my own.
I quickly fell into my old pattern, I didn't get started until about 12noon. My plan was to visit the Days of '47 Festival. I believed that the program was a space reserved for period costumes and actors playing roles of early pioneers. I thought the festival was taking place in the "This is the Place Heritage Park". I made an attempt to go to the Days of '47 Festival by bus, but the "easy grid layout" of the streets was lost on me. After walking (lost) in a circle, I gave up and decided to use the Trax light rail. Even though the Trax did not go to the Heritage Park, I used the Trax map to guess at the closest station to the park and I planned to walk the rest of the way. It turned into about an hour walk. Along the way, I came across Fort Douglas and Red Butte (pronounced with a long "u") Garden. Since it was already getting late, I decided that I would visit both tomorrow.
Anyway, when I arrived at the Heritage Park, I noticed...well nothing different from when SLC Epal drove us there on Thursday. I went to the wrong place! The festival was located someplace else. Oh well, since I was there, I walked around Brigham Young's farm again. I discovered a small monument to the Pony Express nearby.
On my way back, I didn't feel like walking back up the hill, so I decided to find another way back. While walking, I walked right to the Salt Lake City Hogle Zoo. With only about 15 minutes before the zoo closed, I decided that I would go there tomorrow as well.
Feeling in a good mood, I decided to walk back to the hostel. It was about a 1 1/2 hour walk. I had dinner at Chilis Restaurant and called it a night.
Post Date - Friday, July 21, 2009 11:18PM
Since SLC Epal started working part-time this summer, He told me that there would be days when he wouldn't be available. So this weekend, I was on my own.I quickly fell into my old pattern, I didn't get started until about 12noon. My plan was to visit the Days of '47 Festival. I believed that the program was a space reserved for period costumes and actors playing roles of early pioneers. I thought the festival was taking place in the "This is the Place Heritage Park". I made an attempt to go to the Days of '47 Festival by bus, but the "easy grid layout" of the streets was lost on me. After walking (lost) in a circle, I gave up and decided to use the Trax light rail. Even though the Trax did not go to the Heritage Park, I used the Trax map to guess at the closest station to the park and I planned to walk the rest of the way. It turned into about an hour walk. Along the way, I came across Fort Douglas and Red Butte (pronounced with a long "u") Garden. Since it was already getting late, I decided that I would visit both tomorrow.
Anyway, when I arrived at the Heritage Park, I noticed...well nothing different from when SLC Epal drove us there on Thursday. I went to the wrong place! The festival was located someplace else. Oh well, since I was there, I walked around Brigham Young's farm again. I discovered a small monument to the Pony Express nearby.
On my way back, I didn't feel like walking back up the hill, so I decided to find another way back. While walking, I walked right to the Salt Lake City Hogle Zoo. With only about 15 minutes before the zoo closed, I decided that I would go there tomorrow as well.
Feeling in a good mood, I decided to walk back to the hostel. It was about a 1 1/2 hour walk. I had dinner at Chilis Restaurant and called it a night.
Post Date - Friday, July 21, 2009 11:18PM
Slide Show - Salt Lake City (Temple Square Solo Walk)
There is a mistake in this slideshow. The Social Hall was not a private school for Brigham Young's children. The private school was located about a city-block away. The private school stood for about 40 years. I will post a picture I took of the plaque explaining the private school in another slideshow. Sorry for the confusion.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
Salt Lake City - Day 2
Friday, July 24, 2009
Today the plan was to see the "Days of 47 Parade". In Utah, they have a state holiday to celebrate the pioneers arrival in Utah. So, how was the parade? It was nice, but it did start off slow with a few gaps throughout the parade. I liked the parade floats; they were nice. However, I felt there were too many awards, almost every other float seem to have had an award.
At about 2/3 mark of the parade, there was about a 15 minute gap. People thought the parade was over and were packing up to leave. SLC Epal said he was ready to leave when I was. However, I didn't feel right about leaving. We were sitting right next to a local radio show broadcasting, they didn't mention the parade being over. I know the participants spent a lot of time creating and practicing routines. SLC Epal understood. After the 15 minute gap, the parade resumed. The parade continued for another 15 minutes of floats, bands, and marchers. Finally the parade was over after about 2 1/2hours. One thing I noticed, it seemed as if some of the participants reappeared in the parade. I seemed to recalled a couple of guys who stuck out (in my mind for their cheers and manner of walking) reappearing at the end (after that 15 minute gap). I also notice the large number of "Pacific Islanders" groups that were presented during the parade. However, SLC Epal said that Salt Lake has a lot of immigration programs.
We had lunch at a local restaurant called the Blue Plate. I really wasn't in the mood for more fast food, but since I didn't have an alternative, I agreed to go. I had a broccoli soup, soda with free refills, and a sundae. This time, we each paid for our own lunch. Instead of asking for two bills, I gave SLC Epal cash for the amount of my lunch. SLC Epal payed the bill with his credit card. Since SLC Epal was technically paying the bill, I left the tip.
After lunch, epal gave me a tour of his house. He has a very nice house. Lately, I have been thinking more and more about getting a house myself. After the house tour, SLC Epal wanted to have a rest before we went to the rodeo, so he dropped me off at the hostel. He said he would return about 5:30PM. Since I had about 3 or 4 hours to kill, I decided to walk around Temple Square.
Temple Square
Wikipedia
Located at almost every corner or path were women who offered tours of the square. My tour guides were nice young ladies. The idea was nice, but it came off too much like a sales pitch for the church by low ranking trainees. For lack of a better expression, only because I had time to kill, I went along for the ride.
The tour seemed a bit rushed and incomplete. They started at the South Visitor's Center. They would stop at some displays and skip others. They would stop at some statues, and yes, skip others. I got the impression that tours were tailored to the tour guides' knowledge of the materials they studied. The tour ended at the top floor of the North Visitor's Center. There, we (there was a woman who came along for the tour) were given post cards to fill out requesting a visit from a church representative -- yes, no matter what city or country you came from. The woman I was with had some trouble saying no. The more she tried to avoid filling out the card, the more the guides would press for reasons why she wouldn't fill out the card. Me? I just completed the evaluation part of the card and skipped the home information, handed it to one of the guides, thanked them for taking the time to give me a tour, and walked away. If they had asked, I would have told them that I wasn't interested, but they never did. Both guides seemed more interested in the woman who couldn't seem to say no, and at the same time really didn't want to fill out the card.
On my way out, I was in time for the "Voice of God" at the statue of Jesus. Yes, the voice said that he was God, and explained...well, I really don't remember what he said, I just remember him saying a couple of times that he was God. I walked back to the hostel. It was a nice 3 hour walk.
About 6:30PM, SLC epal returned and we went to the E Center for the 7PM Rodeo Show. I bought the rodeo tickets online the night before($51.50), so we just had to pick up the tickets. I thought that since SLC epal was playing tour guide for me, I would treat him to the rodeo show. Neither one of us has been to a rodeo before, so we both were curious about the rodeo. Unfortunately, being the cheapskate I am, I didn't want to spend a lot of money for the tickets, so we got stuck in the nose-bleed section... way up high.
How was the rodeo? Sorry to say, I was a bit bored by it. SLC epal was also bored. About 1/2 through, SLC epal mentioned that "he was ready to go when I was". However, being the cheapskate that I am, I wanted my money's worth. I told epal that if the show was a blank brick wall, I still wouldn't leave. Luckily, SLC epal seem to understand. The show wasn't terrible, just not exciting. At the end, we both had to chuckle at the commentary made by the announcer. He stated that rodeo was a sport and the animals (in a rodeo) like animals in any other sport are well taken care of and they (the animals) enjoy the sport.
After the show, there was a contest. Each audience member was given a card. We had to swipe the card at one of the computer terminals, input personal information for a chance to win a Ford truck. It took me a few swipes before the terminal activated. However, one of the first things it asked for was my cell phone number, at that point, I guessed that it was just a marketing scam to get personal information that could later be sold. I passed. SLC Epal on the other hand was..."determined" to get his card activated. It was watching his growing frustration that I realized that he had a bit of a temper. The more he tried (and failed) to activate his card, the angrier he became. Finally, he gave up and threw the card in the box and stormed out of the lobby. At this point, if I was on my home turf, I would have called it a night and went home via mass transit. But, being far...far...far from home, my options were limited. Luckily, just as quickly as SLC Epal became angry, he began to calm down just as quickly. He even allowed a couple of drivers to cut ahead of him in the parking lot during the mass exodus to get out.
I suggested that we have dinner somewhere in there area since there were several restaurants in the neighborhood, I also offered to pay for dinner since SLC Epal did the driving. When we arrived at the restaurant, I reminded SLC that I would pay, but he said that he would "pay this time....just don't go crazy on the menu". To be honest, the way he phrased it, I took it as an obligation he felt he had to do, and that killed my appetite. Yes, I've been told that I can be overly sensitive at times. I was able to laugh it off with a joke about wanting lobster, but I really wasn't in a dining mood.
When we sat down, we got lucky. The restaurant was having a two for one special for $20. From a select menu, customers could choose an appetizer, two sandwiches, two sides, and share a dessert. The meal came with free refills for soda. Although I wasn't in the mood to eat, the meal turned out to be nice. Since SLC was paying for the meal, I left the tip. SLC was also in a better mood when we left the restaurant. He thought it was a good idea that we went to the restaurant because we managed to avoid the exit traffic from the rodeo; the roads were clear when we left the restaurant.
At the hostel, SLC Epal reminded me that he would call me on Monday around 11AM. SLC Epal will be working during the weekend, so he wouldn't be available to meet.
Post Date - Monday, August 17, 2009 10:35PM
Today the plan was to see the "Days of 47 Parade". In Utah, they have a state holiday to celebrate the pioneers arrival in Utah. So, how was the parade? It was nice, but it did start off slow with a few gaps throughout the parade. I liked the parade floats; they were nice. However, I felt there were too many awards, almost every other float seem to have had an award.At about 2/3 mark of the parade, there was about a 15 minute gap. People thought the parade was over and were packing up to leave. SLC Epal said he was ready to leave when I was. However, I didn't feel right about leaving. We were sitting right next to a local radio show broadcasting, they didn't mention the parade being over. I know the participants spent a lot of time creating and practicing routines. SLC Epal understood. After the 15 minute gap, the parade resumed. The parade continued for another 15 minutes of floats, bands, and marchers. Finally the parade was over after about 2 1/2hours. One thing I noticed, it seemed as if some of the participants reappeared in the parade. I seemed to recalled a couple of guys who stuck out (in my mind for their cheers and manner of walking) reappearing at the end (after that 15 minute gap). I also notice the large number of "Pacific Islanders" groups that were presented during the parade. However, SLC Epal said that Salt Lake has a lot of immigration programs.
We had lunch at a local restaurant called the Blue Plate. I really wasn't in the mood for more fast food, but since I didn't have an alternative, I agreed to go. I had a broccoli soup, soda with free refills, and a sundae. This time, we each paid for our own lunch. Instead of asking for two bills, I gave SLC Epal cash for the amount of my lunch. SLC Epal payed the bill with his credit card. Since SLC Epal was technically paying the bill, I left the tip.
After lunch, epal gave me a tour of his house. He has a very nice house. Lately, I have been thinking more and more about getting a house myself. After the house tour, SLC Epal wanted to have a rest before we went to the rodeo, so he dropped me off at the hostel. He said he would return about 5:30PM. Since I had about 3 or 4 hours to kill, I decided to walk around Temple Square.
Temple Square
Wikipedia
Located at almost every corner or path were women who offered tours of the square. My tour guides were nice young ladies. The idea was nice, but it came off too much like a sales pitch for the church by low ranking trainees. For lack of a better expression, only because I had time to kill, I went along for the ride.
The tour seemed a bit rushed and incomplete. They started at the South Visitor's Center. They would stop at some displays and skip others. They would stop at some statues, and yes, skip others. I got the impression that tours were tailored to the tour guides' knowledge of the materials they studied. The tour ended at the top floor of the North Visitor's Center. There, we (there was a woman who came along for the tour) were given post cards to fill out requesting a visit from a church representative -- yes, no matter what city or country you came from. The woman I was with had some trouble saying no. The more she tried to avoid filling out the card, the more the guides would press for reasons why she wouldn't fill out the card. Me? I just completed the evaluation part of the card and skipped the home information, handed it to one of the guides, thanked them for taking the time to give me a tour, and walked away. If they had asked, I would have told them that I wasn't interested, but they never did. Both guides seemed more interested in the woman who couldn't seem to say no, and at the same time really didn't want to fill out the card.
On my way out, I was in time for the "Voice of God" at the statue of Jesus. Yes, the voice said that he was God, and explained...well, I really don't remember what he said, I just remember him saying a couple of times that he was God. I walked back to the hostel. It was a nice 3 hour walk.
About 6:30PM, SLC epal returned and we went to the E Center for the 7PM Rodeo Show. I bought the rodeo tickets online the night before($51.50), so we just had to pick up the tickets. I thought that since SLC epal was playing tour guide for me, I would treat him to the rodeo show. Neither one of us has been to a rodeo before, so we both were curious about the rodeo. Unfortunately, being the cheapskate I am, I didn't want to spend a lot of money for the tickets, so we got stuck in the nose-bleed section... way up high.
How was the rodeo? Sorry to say, I was a bit bored by it. SLC epal was also bored. About 1/2 through, SLC epal mentioned that "he was ready to go when I was". However, being the cheapskate that I am, I wanted my money's worth. I told epal that if the show was a blank brick wall, I still wouldn't leave. Luckily, SLC epal seem to understand. The show wasn't terrible, just not exciting. At the end, we both had to chuckle at the commentary made by the announcer. He stated that rodeo was a sport and the animals (in a rodeo) like animals in any other sport are well taken care of and they (the animals) enjoy the sport.
After the show, there was a contest. Each audience member was given a card. We had to swipe the card at one of the computer terminals, input personal information for a chance to win a Ford truck. It took me a few swipes before the terminal activated. However, one of the first things it asked for was my cell phone number, at that point, I guessed that it was just a marketing scam to get personal information that could later be sold. I passed. SLC Epal on the other hand was..."determined" to get his card activated. It was watching his growing frustration that I realized that he had a bit of a temper. The more he tried (and failed) to activate his card, the angrier he became. Finally, he gave up and threw the card in the box and stormed out of the lobby. At this point, if I was on my home turf, I would have called it a night and went home via mass transit. But, being far...far...far from home, my options were limited. Luckily, just as quickly as SLC Epal became angry, he began to calm down just as quickly. He even allowed a couple of drivers to cut ahead of him in the parking lot during the mass exodus to get out.
I suggested that we have dinner somewhere in there area since there were several restaurants in the neighborhood, I also offered to pay for dinner since SLC Epal did the driving. When we arrived at the restaurant, I reminded SLC that I would pay, but he said that he would "pay this time....just don't go crazy on the menu". To be honest, the way he phrased it, I took it as an obligation he felt he had to do, and that killed my appetite. Yes, I've been told that I can be overly sensitive at times. I was able to laugh it off with a joke about wanting lobster, but I really wasn't in a dining mood.
When we sat down, we got lucky. The restaurant was having a two for one special for $20. From a select menu, customers could choose an appetizer, two sandwiches, two sides, and share a dessert. The meal came with free refills for soda. Although I wasn't in the mood to eat, the meal turned out to be nice. Since SLC was paying for the meal, I left the tip. SLC was also in a better mood when we left the restaurant. He thought it was a good idea that we went to the restaurant because we managed to avoid the exit traffic from the rodeo; the roads were clear when we left the restaurant.
At the hostel, SLC Epal reminded me that he would call me on Monday around 11AM. SLC Epal will be working during the weekend, so he wouldn't be available to meet.
Post Date - Monday, August 17, 2009 10:35PM
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Salt Lake City - Day 1
Thursday, July 23, 2009
I took the Greyhound bus from Los Angeles and arrived in Salt Lake City (SLC) around 7AM. I didn't feel like dealing with public transportation, so I just took a cab to the hostel. Unfortunately, there was a bit of a glitch in the check-in process. The hostel has an automated process, however, it was anything but automatic. I received the email about the change in door code, but I seem to have missed the one about no check-ins until 2PM. For a $5 fee, I was able to check in earlier than 2PM. The problem? The person doing the check in was just hired, and was having trouble with the computer, then with the credit card carbon copy printing machine. It was one of those hand held contraptions that prints the company information on the receipt when the blank receipt is laid on the machine, and the handle is pulled across. Anyway, the clerk just couldn't get it working. Finally, she settled for hand writing the information onto the receipt. So much for convenience.
After I showered and changed clothes, I called my epal from SLC. Last summer, my epal made the comment (either via email or through his blog) that I should come to SLC and he would show me around. Knowing that I wouldn't be doing anything this summer but eating and sleep, I took him up on his offer.
We met up for lunch at a local restaurant. Since my epal would be doing the driving, I offered to pay for lunch(about$18 plus tip). After lunch, the plan was to do a bit of sightseeing. My epal said that we could do any sightseeing as long as we got back before 7PM. His family was throwing a sweet-sixteen party for his niece, and he had to attend.
First up, was a drive up to the top of a mountain for a panoramic view of the SLC valley; it was a very nice view of the valley. On our way back down, we stopped at the State building. I found it a bit strange that the lettering identifying the building were off-centered.
Next up, we went to a park called, "This is the Place". The state of Utah was founded by Mormons. My epal told me that after the Mormons migrated down into the valley through a passage called "Emigration Canyon", the leader at the time proclaimed that the the spot they had seen would be where the pioneers would settle. So, "This is the Place" is the place believed to be the place, where Brigham Young made that statement. The place is now called, "This is the Place Heritage Park". In the park is also located some of the structures of that time, included a pony express outpost, Brigham Young's residence, and a farm.
After visiting "This is the Place", my epal drove us up to a ski resort. It sounded a bit strange because I had assumed that no snow meant that the ski resorts would be closed for the summer. However, the ski resort was opened with summer related activities (like a miniature bobsled-type of slide, rock or rope climbing, and a zip line. trampoline, etc...).
On the way back, my epal drove us to the school that was used for the filming of High School Musical.
We finished our sightseeing adventures about 5PM. My epal had a party to go to. Since it was still early, I did some walking around the local neighborhood. I settled for buying myself dinner at Whole Foods.
Completion Date - Friday, August 14, 2009 4:11PM
Post Date - Sunday, August 16, 2009 12:40PM
I took the Greyhound bus from Los Angeles and arrived in Salt Lake City (SLC) around 7AM. I didn't feel like dealing with public transportation, so I just took a cab to the hostel. Unfortunately, there was a bit of a glitch in the check-in process. The hostel has an automated process, however, it was anything but automatic. I received the email about the change in door code, but I seem to have missed the one about no check-ins until 2PM. For a $5 fee, I was able to check in earlier than 2PM. The problem? The person doing the check in was just hired, and was having trouble with the computer, then with the credit card carbon copy printing machine. It was one of those hand held contraptions that prints the company information on the receipt when the blank receipt is laid on the machine, and the handle is pulled across. Anyway, the clerk just couldn't get it working. Finally, she settled for hand writing the information onto the receipt. So much for convenience.After I showered and changed clothes, I called my epal from SLC. Last summer, my epal made the comment (either via email or through his blog) that I should come to SLC and he would show me around. Knowing that I wouldn't be doing anything this summer but eating and sleep, I took him up on his offer.
We met up for lunch at a local restaurant. Since my epal would be doing the driving, I offered to pay for lunch(about$18 plus tip). After lunch, the plan was to do a bit of sightseeing. My epal said that we could do any sightseeing as long as we got back before 7PM. His family was throwing a sweet-sixteen party for his niece, and he had to attend.
First up, was a drive up to the top of a mountain for a panoramic view of the SLC valley; it was a very nice view of the valley. On our way back down, we stopped at the State building. I found it a bit strange that the lettering identifying the building were off-centered.
Next up, we went to a park called, "This is the Place". The state of Utah was founded by Mormons. My epal told me that after the Mormons migrated down into the valley through a passage called "Emigration Canyon", the leader at the time proclaimed that the the spot they had seen would be where the pioneers would settle. So, "This is the Place" is the place believed to be the place, where Brigham Young made that statement. The place is now called, "This is the Place Heritage Park". In the park is also located some of the structures of that time, included a pony express outpost, Brigham Young's residence, and a farm.
After visiting "This is the Place", my epal drove us up to a ski resort. It sounded a bit strange because I had assumed that no snow meant that the ski resorts would be closed for the summer. However, the ski resort was opened with summer related activities (like a miniature bobsled-type of slide, rock or rope climbing, and a zip line. trampoline, etc...).
On the way back, my epal drove us to the school that was used for the filming of High School Musical.
We finished our sightseeing adventures about 5PM. My epal had a party to go to. Since it was still early, I did some walking around the local neighborhood. I settled for buying myself dinner at Whole Foods.
Completion Date - Friday, August 14, 2009 4:11PM
Post Date - Sunday, August 16, 2009 12:40PM
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Leaving LA
A few photos taken on my way to Salt Lake City Utah. There was a 90 minute rest stop scheduled in Las Vegas, but due to Greyhound being behind schedule, we only had 30 minutes.
LA - Misc.
A few random photos that did not fit any of the previous LA photo albums...or I forgot to add.
Friday, August 14, 2009
YouTube Clip - No Seatbelt
Normally, I'm not a fan of laughs derived from trips, falls, or accidents. However, I did find this clip to be interesting. A good ad for seat belts.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Slide Show - Hollywood Wax Museum
While doing one final review of my LA photos before moving onto Salt Lake City, I found a few I should have included on my blog. I added a few more photos to this slide show.
Hopefully, you recognize the characters so that I won't have to type a caption for each photo.
Hopefully, you recognize the characters so that I won't have to type a caption for each photo.
Last Day in Los Angeles
Wednesday, August 22nd
Today was the last day in Los Angeles. I started the day with packing and a plan to do a load of laundry so that I won't have to carry dirty clothes on my bus trip back to the east coast. Unfortunately, this LA hostel doesn't provide access to their washer and dryer (only for staff business). I had to walk over to the local laundromat about 7 minutes away. Just when I was about to start washing my clothes, LA epal called to see if I wanted to do a bit of last minute sightseeing. He wanted to take me to a place called the Grove and a place called the Farmer's Market. Instead of having my epal wait for me to wash my clothes, I left my clothes with the attendant for their washing services.
First stop was the Farmer's Market. I wasn't hungry, however, my epal treated me to a large orange juice. He also asked to see the photos I had taken while I was in LA. What surprised me was that he looked at all of them. About 4 or 5 hundred!
From the Farmer's Market, we walked over to the Grove (a shopping district). The last place we visited was the La Brea Tar Pits, which wasn't far away. We didn't go into the museum, we just walked around the park. Although there are "official" pits of tar, LA epal told me that the whole area was built over the tar and that tar can bubble up anywhere in the park.
After La Brea, I had to return to pick up my laundry. When I arrived at the hostel, I got packed and was ready to go. I wasn't exactly sure about the location to Greyhound station. When I first arrived at the hostel, I leafed through a binder they had of information for tourist, including traveling information(including Greyhound station). I was sure it wasn't that far, but LA epal told me that it was. I know there was a binder at the hostel, but the hostel guy on call at the time seem to have no idea what I was talking about, nor did he make any attempt to help. Anyway, LA epal offered to drive me to the bus depot downtown -- he said it would be about a 40 minute drive (if we didn't get stuck in traffic). We arrived with about 15 minutes to spare. I've enjoyed my time in LA. Actually, LA was a last minute decision. I would like to return next summer.
Oh, it was after the bus had left, that I figured out the best way to the Greyhound station. It was actually about 3 stations stops away on the train.
Well, I think that is about it. Next up, my adventure continues onto Salt Lake City, Utah.
The attached photo is a life-sized model of a probably scene of a mammal getting stuck in the tar pit.
Post Date - Thursday, August 13, 2009 11:28AM
Today was the last day in Los Angeles. I started the day with packing and a plan to do a load of laundry so that I won't have to carry dirty clothes on my bus trip back to the east coast. Unfortunately, this LA hostel doesn't provide access to their washer and dryer (only for staff business). I had to walk over to the local laundromat about 7 minutes away. Just when I was about to start washing my clothes, LA epal called to see if I wanted to do a bit of last minute sightseeing. He wanted to take me to a place called the Grove and a place called the Farmer's Market. Instead of having my epal wait for me to wash my clothes, I left my clothes with the attendant for their washing services. First stop was the Farmer's Market. I wasn't hungry, however, my epal treated me to a large orange juice. He also asked to see the photos I had taken while I was in LA. What surprised me was that he looked at all of them. About 4 or 5 hundred!
From the Farmer's Market, we walked over to the Grove (a shopping district). The last place we visited was the La Brea Tar Pits, which wasn't far away. We didn't go into the museum, we just walked around the park. Although there are "official" pits of tar, LA epal told me that the whole area was built over the tar and that tar can bubble up anywhere in the park.
After La Brea, I had to return to pick up my laundry. When I arrived at the hostel, I got packed and was ready to go. I wasn't exactly sure about the location to Greyhound station. When I first arrived at the hostel, I leafed through a binder they had of information for tourist, including traveling information(including Greyhound station). I was sure it wasn't that far, but LA epal told me that it was. I know there was a binder at the hostel, but the hostel guy on call at the time seem to have no idea what I was talking about, nor did he make any attempt to help. Anyway, LA epal offered to drive me to the bus depot downtown -- he said it would be about a 40 minute drive (if we didn't get stuck in traffic). We arrived with about 15 minutes to spare. I've enjoyed my time in LA. Actually, LA was a last minute decision. I would like to return next summer.
Oh, it was after the bus had left, that I figured out the best way to the Greyhound station. It was actually about 3 stations stops away on the train.
Well, I think that is about it. Next up, my adventure continues onto Salt Lake City, Utah.
The attached photo is a life-sized model of a probably scene of a mammal getting stuck in the tar pit.
Post Date - Thursday, August 13, 2009 11:28AM
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Slide Show - Universal Studios (Part 1)
Below is a collection of photos I took at Universal Studios. Sorry, I can't seem to change the speed. I thought if I reposted it, I would be able to set the speed of the slideshow, but I wasn't able to reset the speed. If you visit the slideshow page, you will be able to set the speed from there. Sorry for the confusion.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Slideshow - LA Homes
Below is a slideshow of Hollywood homes. The pictures were taken from the tour bus. The driver wasn't allowed to stop in traffic. Basically, the two hours was pointing out famous homes and driving on. Sorry, the bus was going fairly quickly to take clear pictures or to remember who's house belong to whom.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Studio Tours
Tuesday, July 21st
Today was my last full-day in Los Angeles. My plan was to visit a couple of museums today and just take it easy. While trying to figure out how to get to the Japanese American Museum, I decided to call Warner Bros. Studios to see if I could see the tour (especially since it is one of the places I can get into with my LA Go Card). I found out that even though people are asked to make reservations for the studio tour, I could come today. While I was riding the bus to Warner Bros. Studios, I also realized I might be able to go over to Universal Studios which was only a short distance away.
Below is a quick comparison of the two studios:
Warner Bros. Studios
Seemed smaller. The studio tour was nice. There was a close knit feeling this studio seem to give off. Tour groups were divided up into small groups of about 10~12 people. The groups were taken around the studios on golf cart type vehicles. From time to time, we were asked to not take pictures. They even went so far as to collect cameras to ensure no one would take pictures. There was a nice small museum on the grounds, but we were not allowed to take pictures. The first floor was devoted to almost 100 years of WB studio magic. The second floor was devoted to the Harry Potter movies. From time to time, we got off the tour vehicle to walk around sets. The cost of the studio tour would have been about $45 without my $163 LA GO Card.
Universal Studios
Much larger. The studio tour was much more polished and designed for large groups. The tour took groups of 25~50 people on large train like trams through the studio. We were not allowed to get off the tram once the tour started. During the tour, a video of Whoopie Goldberg played explaining background information about the studio. Where as Warner Bros. is just a studio, Universal was also an amusement park. With my LA Go Card, I was able to visit the amusement park part of the studio. I ended up staying until closing (about 7PM). After, I spent a couple of hours walking around CityWalk. CityWalk was a mall-like complex. The cost for entrance into the park would have been about $65 dollars without my $163 LA Go Card.
Post Date - Monday, August 10, 2009 3:31PM
Today was my last full-day in Los Angeles. My plan was to visit a couple of museums today and just take it easy. While trying to figure out how to get to the Japanese American Museum, I decided to call Warner Bros. Studios to see if I could see the tour (especially since it is one of the places I can get into with my LA Go Card). I found out that even though people are asked to make reservations for the studio tour, I could come today. While I was riding the bus to Warner Bros. Studios, I also realized I might be able to go over to Universal Studios which was only a short distance away.
Below is a quick comparison of the two studios:
Warner Bros. Studios
Seemed smaller. The studio tour was nice. There was a close knit feeling this studio seem to give off. Tour groups were divided up into small groups of about 10~12 people. The groups were taken around the studios on golf cart type vehicles. From time to time, we were asked to not take pictures. They even went so far as to collect cameras to ensure no one would take pictures. There was a nice small museum on the grounds, but we were not allowed to take pictures. The first floor was devoted to almost 100 years of WB studio magic. The second floor was devoted to the Harry Potter movies. From time to time, we got off the tour vehicle to walk around sets. The cost of the studio tour would have been about $45 without my $163 LA GO Card.Universal Studios
Much larger. The studio tour was much more polished and designed for large groups. The tour took groups of 25~50 people on large train like trams through the studio. We were not allowed to get off the tram once the tour started. During the tour, a video of Whoopie Goldberg played explaining background information about the studio. Where as Warner Bros. is just a studio, Universal was also an amusement park. With my LA Go Card, I was able to visit the amusement park part of the studio. I ended up staying until closing (about 7PM). After, I spent a couple of hours walking around CityWalk. CityWalk was a mall-like complex. The cost for entrance into the park would have been about $65 dollars without my $163 LA Go Card.Post Date - Monday, August 10, 2009 3:31PM
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Venice Beach
Monday, July 20th I took the two-hour "Homes of the Stars" Tour. After, while I was thinking about what to do, I decided to call the only pen pal from LA who kept in contact with me after I placed my ad in the "looking for a platonic friend(in L.A.)" ad on an online personals website. It turned out he was free and wanted to meet. The person who arrived was not what I was expecting.
The guy who arrived was tanned, slim, and driving a black convertible. I've never been in a convertible before. My LA epal (electronic pen pal) suggested we go to Venice beach. When we arrived, LA epal spent about 10 minutes driving around looking for a parking space. We walked along the beach for about an hour. We had pizza for lunch, it was on me. Since my epal drove us down to Venice, I thought paying for lunch was the least I could do. The pizza shack looked a bit ratty, but the pizza was surprisingly good. We walked a bit, then we had to return. Unfortunately LA Pal (in wanting to save money by not going to a parking lot), ended up receiving a parking ticket for $50.
On the way back, LA Pal had to do some quick banking business "Upper-Class" style. He has an account at a private bank where customers have to be buzzed in. There was something very "Hollywood" about the exchange he had with the bank person. On the one hand they both did the hugs and squeezes with the cute names, but every once in a while they would cast a quick "glance". It was almost like they were checking to see who would drop the falseness of the situation first. Neither did. Oh, and one more "Hollywood" moment. While riding back to Hollywood Blvd. Janet Dickerson said hello to LA Pal. I didn't recognize her until LA Pal told me who she was. She stuck her foot out of the window.
On the way back, LA Pal offered to take me to dinner later on that evening. At first I was going to say yes, but after I thought about it, I wasn't in the mood for expending so much mental energy stressing about dinner, so I cancelled.
I spent the evening walking about the Hollywood neighborhood. What I found a bit strange was that once I walked off the Hollywood Blvd. There was a plainness about the place I wasn't expecting. Both New York City and Tokyo seemed to have a "big city vibe" that seemed to be woven through various neighborhoods that let you know you were in a big city. LA didn't seem to have it. I took a picture standing in the middle of the street of Hollywood Blvd (the heart of Hollywood), other than a few flashing lights, it was relatively quiet. Where New York and Tokyo stay on all night, Hollywood, seem to have a bedtime.
Well, instead of going out and exploring, I decided to take some time to update my blog. For the last couple of days, I've too exhausted to do any blogging when I return to the hostel, so I thought I would do it early this time. Today is the last day of the GO LA Card. I'm going to try squeezing in three activities today. If I accomplish these three activities, then I will feel like I got my money's worth. I'm going to head over to one of the "Hollywood" museums I missed. I then want to visit the Japanese American Museum. I will try to then squeeze in Universal Studios. However, if I don't do anything but wondering around the neighborhoods, I don't think I'll be too upset. This is after all a vacation. I should be relaxing not stressing myself about schedules and deadlines.
The attached photo is one I took on the way down to Venice Beach. I will upload a slideshow of my other photos at another time.
Completion (first draft) - Tuesday, July 21, 2009 11:30AM
Post Date - Saturday, August 8, 2009 1:00PM
Friday, August 07, 2009
The Hero Factory
Thanks to Max and Paperback, I was able to create a character of myself as a super hero. After a couple of attempts, the picture on the left is the result. If you would like to try your hand at creating a super hero character the link is below.
The Hero Factory
The Adventure Begins
I'm back. I returned yesterday afternoon. I was not able to blog during my trip mainly due to a lack of computer access. Starting today, I will be recounting to the best of my ability (and my notes) my Summer 2009 Vacation.Saturday, July 18th
Since I missed my original flight. I had to pay a penalty for changing a nonrefundable ticket ($200). It wasn't until I got home, I realized that the hostel would not be opened when I arrived at around midnight. I tried calling for an earlier flight, but I was told that I had to call within a 3 hour window of the departing flight. Problem. I live about 3 hours away. I left early hoping to arrive at the airport to make it easier to change flights. Nope. I missed the earlier flight by ten minutes. It turned out okay(at the time). Time flew much faster than I was expecting it. After browsing through the bookstore, I went for dinner. By the time I got my dinner, I decided to go through the security check point, there was only about 30 minutes before the departure time. Oh, would you believe I got stuck behind an Arab family/group that didn't seem to understand the concept of "metal detector". Each person (male and female) had jewelry dangling from every wrist and neck available(and quite a few fingers as well). None of the security suggested that they remove all of the jewelry. Each person would be sent through setting off the machine. The person would be sent back through again. The second time, the security would call for a (male or female) to do a more detailed search. Me? I went through with no problem. Oh, I forgot I had my breakfast shakes with me. No liquids.
The plane ride was uneventful...thank goodness. However, when I arrived, I discovered that I had left all of my travel contact information, schedules, plans etc.... So, I was in the LAX at midnight with no way of contacting the shuttle service, or the hostels. At first, I finally decided to go to a nearby motel for the night.
1st attempt - No pick up service available. Motel operator said that the place was only about 5 minutes away. Walking directions were useless.
2nd attempt - Then, an airport staff worker suggested I take a cab. The first cab driver wanted $15 dollars even when I told him the motel was five minutes away.
3rd attempt - I tried walking to the motel (any motel at this time), but after walking for 90 minutes after midnight, with about 20lbs of luggage with me, I gave up, I slept on a bench in the airport. About 6AM the next morning, I was finally able to find the correct shuttle. And what did I discover as the shuttle van started to drive? I was back where I had started. If I had walked another 5 minutes, I would have been right back at my starting point. Yep. I had walked around the entire airport.
I arrived at the hostel 10 minutes before they opened, so I stashed my luggage behind the hostel, and walked to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. When the hostel opened, the woman in charge for the morning shift informed me that my room/bed wasn't ready?!?!? I wouldn't be able to go to the room until 3PM. I sponged off in the bathroom and began my LA adventure.
I visited about 3 or 4 Hollywood museums and took one neighborhood tours.
I'll post my pictures at another time.
Post Date - Friday, August 7, 2009 1:20PM
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