Before leaving for Europe, we decided to visit Dean’s Dad in Newport Beach in Southern California.
We chose the I-5 freeway, because it’s faster. It is not as beautiful as the famous Pacific Coast Highway, but there the scenery was not bad at all. The road leads through the farmland of Central California They reminded me of the McFarland movie with Kevin Costner, which was filmed there. It is a must see.
It would have been much easier to take the train, but the trip would be over 13 hours and take almost the whole day. Unfortunately the construction of the high-speed connection through California is only in plans with an ending date scheduled not earlier than in 2025! Construction has been delayed by concerns about Earthquakes.
Of course, there are planes, but it is so much easier to pack the car.
On the way we passed peach, almond and nectarine trees, and a lot of cows. It was dry, almost desert the whole way.
We stayed for a night in Kettleman City. Located in the middle of nowhere, but so convenient for drivers whoo need to rest.
After driving more and more in the morning, we finally arrived at Newport Beach. It was hot as usual, and there were a lot of tourists. We spotted fewer surfers, because in the summer they only allowed to surf in the mornings. We visited our favorite venues and walked by the ocean.
On the way back the drive took almost the whole day. We were unlucky with L.A. traffic and roadwork. Rosie was a champ in the car, but she needed a lot of breaks. After all, kids have the right to stretch their legs, explore parking lots, and have fun at McDonald’s..
I enjoyed looking at the endless California scenery through the car window. It gave me a change of pace from my daily routine and allowed me to view my world from a different perspective.
However tomorrow we will hopefully be on our way to the Old Continent xx
On the road!
Politics are responsible for the water crisis. Dean says he has heard about it since he was little.
Some green and drought
Getting closer to the ocean
Ufortunately the hotel pool wasn’t clean enough to swim
I noticed that in a typical American hotel for breakfast bacon and eggs, and oatmeal are served, few veggies, and there is always a Bible in every room.
Well, iff there is a place to run, then we are fine.
Of course we need a snack too. Here at Danny’s restaurant chain.
Danny’s is inexpensive. Most meals are loaded with calories. We tried to pick healthy options. Parents can look up at calories served in kids meals, bu I am not sure if they care.
Craziness before bedtime.
Happy Meals are back!
We made it! Finally we are at Newport beach.
and by the ocean!
We started the next day at my favorite Sambazon Cafe. For breakfast, açai bowls are served.
Under the fruits are açai paste. It is imported from Brasil.
How about more coffee?
This time Rose was afraid of the ocean and the beach. Notice the empty pool.
and an escaping Baby!
The Crab Cooker is a place that can’t be missed in Newport Beach. Everything is served on plastic or paper.
Crabs, salmon and other goodies at Crab Cooker.
Waiting for fish..
Atlantic salmon, mashed patotoes and coleslaw- my favorite. Don’t forget to order clam chowder!
After dinner with Grandpa
Fashion Island mall. Never before I have I seen so many owners of Channel or Louis Vitton bags as here. I explored less fancy places as Forever 21 or Victoria’s Secret. Rose was simply delighted by so many opportunities to walk around!
We also took a look at the Newport pier.
This beach!
Behind me is the Sunday Farmers Market.
Newport Pier.
Last walk by the ocean. We are on the way to see crabs and clams living on the rocks. Scary!
On the way back we saw fire in the hills. I think it wasn’t anything serious.
Long road ahead of us..
Take a look at film that I recorded from the car.
PS. Take a look at new ciekawostki.