Day 34
- Met up with Jodie & Louise at breakfast ready to hit Disneyland.
- After walking through Downtown Disney ( a bunch of shops next to the park, kind of like at Universal Studios) we made it inside the main park just after 8.
- By lunch time we had managed to get through most of the popular rides including Indiana Jones, Pirates of the Caribbean, the Hunted House, Splash Mountain & Goofey’s Railroad. We even lined up with the little tots for photos with Minnie Mouse and Pluto!
- This place is very cool, just as I remember when I was a kid – just not quite as big.
- Had a hotdog for lunch before heading to Autopia and Space Mountain, which was so much fun, I got the giggles! Then onto the Disneyland train for a loop ride around the park.
- Dinner at the Cheesecake Factory (again), had a Caesar Salad and a piece of ‘Stephanies Red Velvet Cheesecake’ OMG!!!
Day 35
- Our second day at Disneyland. Tahl’s and myself headed straight to Space Mountain for a do-over of our photo. We also completed some of the rides missed out yesterday, Buzz Lightyear and Finding Nemo included.
- Had pictures with Goofy, Mickey, Pooh and Tigger.
- Spend some more money at Downtown Disney, Quicksilver and Sephora again.
Day 36
- A small sleep-in before heading down the street to get our nails done, and a much needed eyebrow wax.
- Off to the mall to spend the last of our pennies, unfortunately most of the stores were high-end fashion and we didn’t quite have that much money. But a really helpful cabbie made the trip nice and easy.
- Dinner consisted of snacks from the convenience store down the street.
- Last minute tidy up and repack the bags.
Day 37 Sunday June 27 LA to Nelson
- A lazy morning watching TV and a late checkout before heading to the airport to wait some more.
- I had a really bad flight, really uncomfortable and hot. My Movies were broken too, I could only watch from halfway through! Argh…
- Made it home to a relatively nice day compared to what we had been hearing, so amped but jet-lag was soon to set in.
Part VI
Day 30
- Up at 6:30 in preparation for a helicopter ride over the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead & the gorgeous North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Lunch and a glass of Champagne to top it off.
- Made it back to the hotel by 1pm and headed out to 'Fashion Show', another massive shopping complex, to spend a whole lotta monies.
-FYI a 1/2 yardy of Margarita = me drunk very quickly.
- Diner at a Mexican restaurant for our last group meal, had a yummy burrito that didn't fill me up enough.
- Went to the 'V' Variety Show with Comedy, Balancing, Impersonation & Drumming acts before heading to our stretch Hummer!
- Nightlife at the Moon Bar in the Palms Hotel after our cruise, stunning views over the city and some stunning people too.
Day 31 Monday June 21 Las Vegas to Los Angeles
- Our first sleep in in ages, thanks to a short driving day to LA. Said goodbye to Ashlee & Bonnie before getting on the bus for the last time.
- Had 'In & Out' Burger for lunch, only 5 options on the menu, and a queue out the door, but amazing strawberry milk shakes.
- Made it to LA City by 4pm, waited around at the Kyoto Grand Hotel for a couple of hours before being picked up. Said goodbye to all the Contiki folk.
- Arrived at the hotel in Anaheim around 8:30 in time to see a gorgeous fireworks display.
- Had Chinese delivered for a late dinner, plenty of leftovers for lunch.
Day 32
- Yay for sleep-ins! We didn't get up until late morning and when we did we out on the box, did some laundry and lazed around.
- Went for a wander around the area and managed to find a small outdoor mall to spend some money and had dinner at the Cheesecake Factory - a huge Burrito and Cookie Dough Cheesecake to take back to the hotel fridge.
Day 33
- A nice and early start once again as we prepare for a day at Universal Studios.
- Met up with the Bowling Sisters and Belinda from Contiki. Started on the Simpson's simulator, then did the Back lot Tour. Convinced the girls to do Jurassic Park, then did the indoor roller coaster, 'The Mummy'.
- Bought a few posters and an ET for Chell (as the ride is no longer), and took a few photos of the Fast & The Furious cars.
- Finished up inside the park with he Water World show.
- Spent more money outside including a really nice Billabong shirt for Darci, before heading back to the hotel with Denis The Menace on the bus DVD player.
- Up at 6:30 in preparation for a helicopter ride over the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead & the gorgeous North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Lunch and a glass of Champagne to top it off.
- Made it back to the hotel by 1pm and headed out to 'Fashion Show', another massive shopping complex, to spend a whole lotta monies.
-FYI a 1/2 yardy of Margarita = me drunk very quickly.
- Diner at a Mexican restaurant for our last group meal, had a yummy burrito that didn't fill me up enough.
- Went to the 'V' Variety Show with Comedy, Balancing, Impersonation & Drumming acts before heading to our stretch Hummer!
- Nightlife at the Moon Bar in the Palms Hotel after our cruise, stunning views over the city and some stunning people too.
Day 31 Monday June 21 Las Vegas to Los Angeles
- Our first sleep in in ages, thanks to a short driving day to LA. Said goodbye to Ashlee & Bonnie before getting on the bus for the last time.
- Had 'In & Out' Burger for lunch, only 5 options on the menu, and a queue out the door, but amazing strawberry milk shakes.
- Made it to LA City by 4pm, waited around at the Kyoto Grand Hotel for a couple of hours before being picked up. Said goodbye to all the Contiki folk.
- Arrived at the hotel in Anaheim around 8:30 in time to see a gorgeous fireworks display.
- Had Chinese delivered for a late dinner, plenty of leftovers for lunch.
Day 32
- Yay for sleep-ins! We didn't get up until late morning and when we did we out on the box, did some laundry and lazed around.
- Went for a wander around the area and managed to find a small outdoor mall to spend some money and had dinner at the Cheesecake Factory - a huge Burrito and Cookie Dough Cheesecake to take back to the hotel fridge.
Day 33
- A nice and early start once again as we prepare for a day at Universal Studios.
- Met up with the Bowling Sisters and Belinda from Contiki. Started on the Simpson's simulator, then did the Back lot Tour. Convinced the girls to do Jurassic Park, then did the indoor roller coaster, 'The Mummy'.
- Bought a few posters and an ET for Chell (as the ride is no longer), and took a few photos of the Fast & The Furious cars.
- Finished up inside the park with he Water World show.
- Spent more money outside including a really nice Billabong shirt for Darci, before heading back to the hotel with Denis The Menace on the bus DVD player.
Part V
Day 25
- Another day at Yellowstone, more pools and stunning views to be enjoyed.
- Topped off by more wildlife; Chipmunks, Squirrels, Buffalo, not to mention the Mumma Bear and her 3 cubs!!!
Day 26 Wednesday June 10 Yellowstone to Salt Lake City
- Exceedingly long drive to Salt Lake City.
- Had Subway with the girls for dinner then wandered to the Gateway Mall.
- OMG i ♥ Urban Outfitters! Found me a Fish Eye camera, dress, belt, wallet & more. I could literally have bought the shop and placed it on Trafalgar Street!
Day 27 Thursday June 17 Salt Lake to Kanab
- Today we got up at 5:00am in anticipation for Hot Air Ballooning... that wasn't meant to be. Sadly cancelled due to poor weather (in actual fact a beautiful day was on the cards).
- Spent the afternoon at Bryce Canyon, similar to the Grand Canyon but smaller and bright orange. My ankles swelled up, i thought they were going to explode.
Day 28
- For the day today we headed to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It was an hour or two drive to get there through some awesome Arizona views. (Eddie Vedder 'Hard Sun' + that scenery = better than any high i know).
- Went for a stroll along the rim and took some pics.
- Had an awesome buffet for lunch and bought some Native American jewelry.
- For tea we had our Camo BBQ at a local park. A great evening had by all... including the Policeman who told us off for drinking in public...
Day 29 Saturday June 19 Kanab to Las Vegas
- Spent the morning walking through the Zion National Park. We took the somewhat easy option but still got the heart racing.
- Off to Vegas in the afternoon, watching The Hangover on the way.
- Headed to Ceasar's Palace shopping centre to waste time before check-in.
- Dinner at an Italian style restaurant before heading on a mini tour of the strip, including 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign, light show and impromptu wedding by Elvis.
- Another day at Yellowstone, more pools and stunning views to be enjoyed.
- Topped off by more wildlife; Chipmunks, Squirrels, Buffalo, not to mention the Mumma Bear and her 3 cubs!!!
Day 26 Wednesday June 10 Yellowstone to Salt Lake City
- Exceedingly long drive to Salt Lake City.
- Had Subway with the girls for dinner then wandered to the Gateway Mall.
- OMG i ♥ Urban Outfitters! Found me a Fish Eye camera, dress, belt, wallet & more. I could literally have bought the shop and placed it on Trafalgar Street!
Day 27 Thursday June 17 Salt Lake to Kanab
- Today we got up at 5:00am in anticipation for Hot Air Ballooning... that wasn't meant to be. Sadly cancelled due to poor weather (in actual fact a beautiful day was on the cards).
- Spent the afternoon at Bryce Canyon, similar to the Grand Canyon but smaller and bright orange. My ankles swelled up, i thought they were going to explode.
Day 28
- For the day today we headed to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It was an hour or two drive to get there through some awesome Arizona views. (Eddie Vedder 'Hard Sun' + that scenery = better than any high i know).
- Went for a stroll along the rim and took some pics.
- Had an awesome buffet for lunch and bought some Native American jewelry.
- For tea we had our Camo BBQ at a local park. A great evening had by all... including the Policeman who told us off for drinking in public...
Day 29 Saturday June 19 Kanab to Las Vegas
- Spent the morning walking through the Zion National Park. We took the somewhat easy option but still got the heart racing.
- Off to Vegas in the afternoon, watching The Hangover on the way.
- Headed to Ceasar's Palace shopping centre to waste time before check-in.
- Dinner at an Italian style restaurant before heading on a mini tour of the strip, including 'Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas' sign, light show and impromptu wedding by Elvis.
Part IV
Day 19 Wednesday June 9 Chicago to Madison
- Bye bye Chicago - Hello Madison (via Milwaukee)
- Went to the mall and spent more money! & had more pizza! (whilst Tahlia and some of the group went and checked out the Harley Davidson Museum)
- Had a tour of the Miller Brewery and tried 3 different beers.
- Went out to a buffet restaurant, just as i remember from San Diego 10 years ago. So so full!
- Room party at Bonnie & Jo's room.
Day 20 Thursday June 10 Madison to Sioux Falls
- To Sioux Falls we go.
- Not much to do in Sioux, we had dinner at a buffet Mexican place... It wasn't bad... Then spent the evening washing.
Day 21 Friday June 11 Sioux to Keystone
- Today we were in for a long drive to Keystone, via the very very cool Badlands National Park.
- It was so peaceful and calm, i could have spent all day just sitting and taking in the view. You could feel the wind in your soul!
- Another buffet dinner...
Day 22
- Today we set off into South Dakota, to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Deadwood - the town of Casinos and Saloons.
- Had lunch with Goran, a really good feed upstairs in the Number 10 Saloon, not to mention cheap drinks.
- Had old time photos taken...
- Went to a local bar for a drink and one attempt at karaoke before bed.
Day 23 Sunday June 13 Keystone to Cody
- It snows in Wyoming! Well we found out after a bloody long drive from South Dakota, and a stop off at Devils Tower (and a field of Prairie Dogs!).
- Spent the evening at the Rodeo, saw some talented young folks and really enjoyed the barrel racing.
Day 24 Monday June 14 Cody to Yellowstone, My Birthday!
- Spent the morning rafting in Cody then headed to the gorgeous Yellowstone National Park for the afternoon.
- I never realised (or researched) how much volcanic activity (or that the place was on a volcano) happened here. Saw so many geysers & thermal pools. Plus gorgeous views of the mountains and lake.
- For tea was pizza, then checked Facebook and headed to bed. I had being trying to ring home for a day and was glad when mum finally called me (a little later than desired) at twelve, just in time to be my last birthday wish.
- Bye bye Chicago - Hello Madison (via Milwaukee)
- Went to the mall and spent more money! & had more pizza! (whilst Tahlia and some of the group went and checked out the Harley Davidson Museum)
- Had a tour of the Miller Brewery and tried 3 different beers.
- Went out to a buffet restaurant, just as i remember from San Diego 10 years ago. So so full!
- Room party at Bonnie & Jo's room.
Day 20 Thursday June 10 Madison to Sioux Falls
- To Sioux Falls we go.
- Not much to do in Sioux, we had dinner at a buffet Mexican place... It wasn't bad... Then spent the evening washing.
Day 21 Friday June 11 Sioux to Keystone
- Today we were in for a long drive to Keystone, via the very very cool Badlands National Park.
- It was so peaceful and calm, i could have spent all day just sitting and taking in the view. You could feel the wind in your soul!
- Another buffet dinner...
Day 22
- Today we set off into South Dakota, to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Deadwood - the town of Casinos and Saloons.
- Had lunch with Goran, a really good feed upstairs in the Number 10 Saloon, not to mention cheap drinks.
- Had old time photos taken...
- Went to a local bar for a drink and one attempt at karaoke before bed.
Day 23 Sunday June 13 Keystone to Cody
- It snows in Wyoming! Well we found out after a bloody long drive from South Dakota, and a stop off at Devils Tower (and a field of Prairie Dogs!).
- Spent the evening at the Rodeo, saw some talented young folks and really enjoyed the barrel racing.
Day 24 Monday June 14 Cody to Yellowstone, My Birthday!
- Spent the morning rafting in Cody then headed to the gorgeous Yellowstone National Park for the afternoon.
- I never realised (or researched) how much volcanic activity (or that the place was on a volcano) happened here. Saw so many geysers & thermal pools. Plus gorgeous views of the mountains and lake.
- For tea was pizza, then checked Facebook and headed to bed. I had being trying to ring home for a day and was glad when mum finally called me (a little later than desired) at twelve, just in time to be my last birthday wish.
Part III
Day 13 Thursday June 13 Montreal to Toronto
- Taco Bell = "Chemically enhanced food with added Crack" - Kriththica.
- Made it to Toronto by 6:30, after a very long day on bus, thanks to bad traffic in Montreal & a couple of late people.
- Three stops on the way including 'The Big Apple' Canada's answer to Australia's Big Pineapple. We had a competition to find the tackiest souvenir under $5.00 and Tahlia and Kylie had an apple pie eating competition (won by Kylie).
- Watched the movie 'Youngblood', Rob Lowe and Patrick Swayze in the '80s with bad hair playing ice hockey.
- Tea at the hotel before hopping on a yellow school bus for a pub-crawl. First bar was an Irish Pub, the second was a club similar to Mollies at home, and third was XS - sister to XS in Vegas, the worlds largest nightclub.
Day 14
- Today we explore Toronto on foot.
- First we headed to the CN Tower, built before Satelite TV was invented so the city could get channels not available with all the tall buildings. So damn high, the elevator was so fast i got giddy. Then there was the glass floor, talk about freaky! Took a while to get used to it, and believe it wasn't going to break.
- Then we headed to the Hard Rock Cafe for lunch, my first beef since i'd been in the States, and it was grosse.
- Yonge Street is the longest street in the world, over 1000 miles long, this is where we did some shopping and i bought my Pearl Jam book.
- Spent 3 hours doing laundry...
Day 15
- To tacky Niagra Falls we go... Yes i said it! What a weird place indeed. Back in the '50s Niagra was a honeymooning capital, but now, i was not impressed. I guess you should see it for yourself. The falls themselves are gorgeous, and serene, if not a little cold as we headed out on the Maid of the Mist. Oh dear silly Asian tourists with very expensive cameras standing in the mist...
Day 16 Sunday June 6 Toronto to Cleveland
- Today we left the beautiful Canadian scenery behind and crossed back into the States.
- Managed to get the two perfumes i wanted pretty cheap at duty free, holding onto just a few cents change.
- Arrived in Cleveland at 3:00pm and headed to the Rock'n'Roll Hall of Fame. Such an amazing place, so much to look at, if only we were allowed to take photos! Saw Johnny Cash's tour bus, Kurt Cobain & Johnny Ramone's guitars, Michael Jackson's silver glove and John Lennon's piano, to name just some of the awesome relics.
- After we got to our room at the hotel we walked downtown and found the mall and saw 'Killers' at the movies - gotta love Ashton Kutcher.
- Kid Cudi is from Cleveland.
- The mall we went to was out of one of my scary dreams, except we found our way out this time...
Day 17 Monday June 7 Cleveland to Chicago
- On the road to Chicago today.
- Arrived at about 4, had a wee nap then got clean & tidy for a few drinks. Firstly went to the John Hancock building, one of the worlds tallest buildings, what an amazing view, even from the loo. We then headed to a couple of pubs on the ground. By 1:30am and 3 quick/strong drinks (and terrible karaoke) it was time for me to hit the hay.
Day 18
- Time to explore Chicago... In the rain!
- Hit the water on a Architecture Cruise, all i can remember is the Trump Tower, or Oprah's House, built with help of the first Apprentice winner.
- Walked around in the rain for a while before we asked for directions to shops. Managed to find another Forever 21, Guess, and Aldo. Picked up some more tops and a bag.
- Had a nap before heading to tea. Had Chicago's famous deep dish pizza. So much cheese, and the base was like pastry.
- Our last day with a few of our new Contiki family.
- Taco Bell = "Chemically enhanced food with added Crack" - Kriththica.
- Made it to Toronto by 6:30, after a very long day on bus, thanks to bad traffic in Montreal & a couple of late people.
- Three stops on the way including 'The Big Apple' Canada's answer to Australia's Big Pineapple. We had a competition to find the tackiest souvenir under $5.00 and Tahlia and Kylie had an apple pie eating competition (won by Kylie).
- Watched the movie 'Youngblood', Rob Lowe and Patrick Swayze in the '80s with bad hair playing ice hockey.
- Tea at the hotel before hopping on a yellow school bus for a pub-crawl. First bar was an Irish Pub, the second was a club similar to Mollies at home, and third was XS - sister to XS in Vegas, the worlds largest nightclub.
Day 14
- Today we explore Toronto on foot.
- First we headed to the CN Tower, built before Satelite TV was invented so the city could get channels not available with all the tall buildings. So damn high, the elevator was so fast i got giddy. Then there was the glass floor, talk about freaky! Took a while to get used to it, and believe it wasn't going to break.
- Then we headed to the Hard Rock Cafe for lunch, my first beef since i'd been in the States, and it was grosse.
- Yonge Street is the longest street in the world, over 1000 miles long, this is where we did some shopping and i bought my Pearl Jam book.
- Spent 3 hours doing laundry...
Day 15
- To tacky Niagra Falls we go... Yes i said it! What a weird place indeed. Back in the '50s Niagra was a honeymooning capital, but now, i was not impressed. I guess you should see it for yourself. The falls themselves are gorgeous, and serene, if not a little cold as we headed out on the Maid of the Mist. Oh dear silly Asian tourists with very expensive cameras standing in the mist...
Day 16 Sunday June 6 Toronto to Cleveland
- Today we left the beautiful Canadian scenery behind and crossed back into the States.
- Managed to get the two perfumes i wanted pretty cheap at duty free, holding onto just a few cents change.
- Arrived in Cleveland at 3:00pm and headed to the Rock'n'Roll Hall of Fame. Such an amazing place, so much to look at, if only we were allowed to take photos! Saw Johnny Cash's tour bus, Kurt Cobain & Johnny Ramone's guitars, Michael Jackson's silver glove and John Lennon's piano, to name just some of the awesome relics.
- After we got to our room at the hotel we walked downtown and found the mall and saw 'Killers' at the movies - gotta love Ashton Kutcher.
- Kid Cudi is from Cleveland.
- The mall we went to was out of one of my scary dreams, except we found our way out this time...
Day 17 Monday June 7 Cleveland to Chicago
- On the road to Chicago today.
- Arrived at about 4, had a wee nap then got clean & tidy for a few drinks. Firstly went to the John Hancock building, one of the worlds tallest buildings, what an amazing view, even from the loo. We then headed to a couple of pubs on the ground. By 1:30am and 3 quick/strong drinks (and terrible karaoke) it was time for me to hit the hay.
Day 18
- Time to explore Chicago... In the rain!
- Hit the water on a Architecture Cruise, all i can remember is the Trump Tower, or Oprah's House, built with help of the first Apprentice winner.
- Walked around in the rain for a while before we asked for directions to shops. Managed to find another Forever 21, Guess, and Aldo. Picked up some more tops and a bag.
- Had a nap before heading to tea. Had Chicago's famous deep dish pizza. So much cheese, and the base was like pastry.
- Our last day with a few of our new Contiki family.
Part II
Day 7 Friday May 28 New York to Boston
- Day one of Contiki, hopped on our bus in NY and headed north.
- Tried my first Dunkin' Doughnuts, mmmm Jelly Doughnut, ewww really bad coffee!
- Had lunch in Newport RI, where rich Americans come on holiday (including the Bush's), saw some truly gorgeous, and huge, old mansions.
- Got to Boston in the afternoon and did a mini tour explaining some of USA Revolution history - I now understand why the area is know as New England (yes i know).
- Had dinner at Dick's, the idea of the restaurant is that the staff are 'dicks' & you through stuff at each other! They also make you a paper hat that they write offensive statements on... Mine said "The reason my waiter loves men", yep they're dicks alright!
- Boston has more pubs than clubs because of it's heritage, I forgot to take my passport out and they wouldn't let us in anywhere except this one cute bar, the waitress was great, strong drinks so we tipped her well.
Day 8
- What a day in Boston!
- I totally recommend to anyone coming here to take the Old Town Trolley Tour, the guides are really knowledgeable, funny and helpful, it made getting around easy because you can hop on and off all day.
- We got off at Copley Plaza, end point of the Boston Marathon, & walked to Newbury Street for amazing shopping, finally made it to the Karmaloop retail store, and MAC.
- Ended the day at Boston Common Park, currently holding holding a Memorial Day Installation of flags representing fallen Massachusetts soldiers.
- Bought 7/11 for tea - a ham sammie with 8, yes 8, slices of ham.
- Spent the evening doing some washing, watching movies and went for a wee jog on the treadmill.
Day 9 Sunday May 30 Boston to Quebec
- Today we left Boston on our journey north to Canada. We stopped in Maine for lunch thanks to Walmart, what a place, so cheap!
- We made it across the border late in the afternoon and watched most of the movie 'The Departed' starring Leonardo DiCaprio & Matt Damon - based in Boston.
- Had dinner in Quebec at an Italian restaurant, then headed across the road to Le Degobert for a dance, definitely the coolest nightclub i've ever been to!
Day 10
- Today we set out to explore Quebec City, first with a guide (Carole) on our bus, then with a walking tour. This city is packed with beautiful buildings, statues, and views of the Saint Lawrence River.
- FYI Jean Cartier was the first recorded Frenchman to come to Canada so there are lots of references to him, with bridges and streets etc named after him.
Also, the native people of Canada are called 'First Nations' - the first people.
- We had one of the many street artists to draw a caricature of us shopping in Quebec.
- Had an early night, not to mention some puffy eyes.
Day 11 Tuesday June 1 Quebec to Montreal
- Off to Montreal, what a wet morning!
- Finished watching The Departed, it was a really good movie, bloody, but very cool.
- It only takes a couple of hours to drive west to the second largest french speaking city in the world, behind Paris, pop. approximately 3.8 million.
- Named after the large mountain in the middle of town, Mount Royal, visible, just, through the fog.
- Lunch consisted of Le Poutine - fries, gravy & cheese... mmmm.
- Our second 'optional' was jet boating, all i can say is OMG! The boats are massive barges, engine at the back, not designed for speed, rather riding rapids. After our 5 layers of clothes were put on & we looked like idiots, we were off for a total drowning, what fun!
- Dinner tonight at 'Essence', first time for me to try creamy vege soup, wasn't bad. Also had fish and delicious chocolate mousse.
Day 12
- By now i'm kind of over the old buildings and monuments (kind of), so today we went to La Ronde, Montreal's amusement park.
- First ride 'The Boomerang' - my first upside down rollercoaster! Talk about a sore neck! But a good wake up.
- Second ride 'The Monster', a rickety wooden coaster - soo fast, but really fun, and it didn't go upside down.
- Last ride for me was 'Goliath', you can see this baby all the way from our hotel, so long and high. Now this was my favourite ride, no upside down, and no change of falling apart... We did see some flying jandals though... The drops were so high, loved it!
- Took the subway for the first time too... glad we don't have them at home... Claustrophobic much?
- Day one of Contiki, hopped on our bus in NY and headed north.
- Tried my first Dunkin' Doughnuts, mmmm Jelly Doughnut, ewww really bad coffee!
- Had lunch in Newport RI, where rich Americans come on holiday (including the Bush's), saw some truly gorgeous, and huge, old mansions.
- Got to Boston in the afternoon and did a mini tour explaining some of USA Revolution history - I now understand why the area is know as New England (yes i know).
- Had dinner at Dick's, the idea of the restaurant is that the staff are 'dicks' & you through stuff at each other! They also make you a paper hat that they write offensive statements on... Mine said "The reason my waiter loves men", yep they're dicks alright!
- Boston has more pubs than clubs because of it's heritage, I forgot to take my passport out and they wouldn't let us in anywhere except this one cute bar, the waitress was great, strong drinks so we tipped her well.
Day 8
- What a day in Boston!
- I totally recommend to anyone coming here to take the Old Town Trolley Tour, the guides are really knowledgeable, funny and helpful, it made getting around easy because you can hop on and off all day.
- We got off at Copley Plaza, end point of the Boston Marathon, & walked to Newbury Street for amazing shopping, finally made it to the Karmaloop retail store, and MAC.
- Ended the day at Boston Common Park, currently holding holding a Memorial Day Installation of flags representing fallen Massachusetts soldiers.
- Bought 7/11 for tea - a ham sammie with 8, yes 8, slices of ham.
- Spent the evening doing some washing, watching movies and went for a wee jog on the treadmill.
Day 9 Sunday May 30 Boston to Quebec
- Today we left Boston on our journey north to Canada. We stopped in Maine for lunch thanks to Walmart, what a place, so cheap!
- We made it across the border late in the afternoon and watched most of the movie 'The Departed' starring Leonardo DiCaprio & Matt Damon - based in Boston.
- Had dinner in Quebec at an Italian restaurant, then headed across the road to Le Degobert for a dance, definitely the coolest nightclub i've ever been to!
Day 10
- Today we set out to explore Quebec City, first with a guide (Carole) on our bus, then with a walking tour. This city is packed with beautiful buildings, statues, and views of the Saint Lawrence River.
- FYI Jean Cartier was the first recorded Frenchman to come to Canada so there are lots of references to him, with bridges and streets etc named after him.
Also, the native people of Canada are called 'First Nations' - the first people.
- We had one of the many street artists to draw a caricature of us shopping in Quebec.
- Had an early night, not to mention some puffy eyes.
Day 11 Tuesday June 1 Quebec to Montreal
- Off to Montreal, what a wet morning!
- Finished watching The Departed, it was a really good movie, bloody, but very cool.
- It only takes a couple of hours to drive west to the second largest french speaking city in the world, behind Paris, pop. approximately 3.8 million.
- Named after the large mountain in the middle of town, Mount Royal, visible, just, through the fog.
- Lunch consisted of Le Poutine - fries, gravy & cheese... mmmm.
- Our second 'optional' was jet boating, all i can say is OMG! The boats are massive barges, engine at the back, not designed for speed, rather riding rapids. After our 5 layers of clothes were put on & we looked like idiots, we were off for a total drowning, what fun!
- Dinner tonight at 'Essence', first time for me to try creamy vege soup, wasn't bad. Also had fish and delicious chocolate mousse.
Day 12
- By now i'm kind of over the old buildings and monuments (kind of), so today we went to La Ronde, Montreal's amusement park.
- First ride 'The Boomerang' - my first upside down rollercoaster! Talk about a sore neck! But a good wake up.
- Second ride 'The Monster', a rickety wooden coaster - soo fast, but really fun, and it didn't go upside down.
- Last ride for me was 'Goliath', you can see this baby all the way from our hotel, so long and high. Now this was my favourite ride, no upside down, and no change of falling apart... We did see some flying jandals though... The drops were so high, loved it!
- Took the subway for the first time too... glad we don't have them at home... Claustrophobic much?
Part I
Day 1 Saturday May 22, Auckland to San Francisco
- Sleeping on long haul is either fuck your back or fuck your neck...
- A pretty bumpy flight, i woke up at one point because it was so loud i thought it was raining outside.
- San Jose is pronounced 'San Hose-ay' Duh pilot.
- Customs Officers are Satanic little fuckers... 'Folks line up here y'all'
- Recession what? All i see is money, money & mo money...
- Walked around downtown San Fran until our room was ready.
- Hotel Bijou... Should have taken up the free ear-plugs offer... Homeless people.
-Shopping Channel, I want 'Hip-Hop Abs'!
Day 2
- Amazing free coffee and bagels for breakfast, should start a trend at home?
- Liking San Fran a bit more after going on a Grey Line Bus Tour. Saw the Piers, Crooked Street, Twin Peaks panoramic view incl. Alcatraz & drove over the Golden Gate Bridge.
- This place is massive, pop. over 700,000 people live in the heart of the city, but over 16 million live in the greater SFO area.
- Up close with my first real prison, on the edge of the motorway, no gates, barbed wire or spotlights... These guys have it easy, brand new frosted glass had just been installed so the inmates could enjoy the views too!
- Max's for dinner - delish cocktails + big chicken breast dinner = good value. A little bit drunk after my one drink haha (Darci chuckle).
Day 3
- Shopping! I didn't realise the 'Westfield' label was American, but isn't everything these days, boycott Riccarton Mall anyone?
- Forever 21 is amazing - cheap and soo much selection.
- Don't go to Bloomingdale's unless you're wearing your best, & feeling it.
- Jandals = sore feet, but i'm still smiling.
- Hotel Bijou Hot Chocolate is amazing, not to mention free.
- Nelson needs a Diner, we went to Lori's for dinner, the Orange Sherbet Shake was a highlight, mmmm.
Day 4 Tuesday May 25, San Francisco to New York
- I woke up in the middle of a dream, us girls were driving, there was a cow in the boot, then Jana announces:"I had an abortion"!!!
- Ba Bye San Francisco!
- A quick hot choc then off to the airport, i must say United is now my least favourite airline.
- People are weirdos, especially Oldies and Asian Tourists.
- Welcome to NY! So much warmer and huge, omg huge! Lights...
- Can't wait to explore.
Day 5
- Fuck! This place is hot!!!
- I feel sticky, dirty & sweaty.
- Wearing a 'Girls just want to have fun' T-shirt must be code for 'talk to me'...
- Went to Madame Tussauads Wax Museum - the models are so life-like, and i discovered i'm the same height as Usher, lmao.
- Shops here are open really late, we were out until 10pm and the town was pumping.
- Thank goodness this hotel is quiet!
- Took some really cool night photos.
- It's Fleet Week in New York, AKA all the Navy, Marines etc are in town with their ships to pick up chicks and walk around in uniform having their picture taken.
- Went to Toys'R'Us, there is a Ferris Wheel inside! OIA (only in America)
- Tried my first Tuna Melt... interesting, but of course there was way to much and i was so full.
Day 6
- Slept in until 11, body clock is still adjusting.
- Found our Double Decker hop-on hop-off bus, New York drivers are just as crazy as in San Fran (forgot to mention that before), they just honk.
- Took the Downtown loop, south through Greenwich Village, Soho, Chinatown, past the World Trade Centre to the Hudson River and back up the East Side.
- Only took pics of the Empire State Building, i think i was still tired, and not inspired!
- Did the mish to our Contiki starting point and had our pre-trip meeting.
- Delicious Pizza for tea, ran through the rain, back to our hotel for dinner in bed with The Goonies.
- Sleeping on long haul is either fuck your back or fuck your neck...
- A pretty bumpy flight, i woke up at one point because it was so loud i thought it was raining outside.
- San Jose is pronounced 'San Hose-ay' Duh pilot.
- Customs Officers are Satanic little fuckers... 'Folks line up here y'all'
- Recession what? All i see is money, money & mo money...
- Walked around downtown San Fran until our room was ready.
- Hotel Bijou... Should have taken up the free ear-plugs offer... Homeless people.
-Shopping Channel, I want 'Hip-Hop Abs'!
Day 2
- Amazing free coffee and bagels for breakfast, should start a trend at home?
- Liking San Fran a bit more after going on a Grey Line Bus Tour. Saw the Piers, Crooked Street, Twin Peaks panoramic view incl. Alcatraz & drove over the Golden Gate Bridge.
- This place is massive, pop. over 700,000 people live in the heart of the city, but over 16 million live in the greater SFO area.
- Up close with my first real prison, on the edge of the motorway, no gates, barbed wire or spotlights... These guys have it easy, brand new frosted glass had just been installed so the inmates could enjoy the views too!
- Max's for dinner - delish cocktails + big chicken breast dinner = good value. A little bit drunk after my one drink haha (Darci chuckle).
Day 3
- Shopping! I didn't realise the 'Westfield' label was American, but isn't everything these days, boycott Riccarton Mall anyone?
- Forever 21 is amazing - cheap and soo much selection.
- Don't go to Bloomingdale's unless you're wearing your best, & feeling it.
- Jandals = sore feet, but i'm still smiling.
- Hotel Bijou Hot Chocolate is amazing, not to mention free.
- Nelson needs a Diner, we went to Lori's for dinner, the Orange Sherbet Shake was a highlight, mmmm.
Day 4 Tuesday May 25, San Francisco to New York
- I woke up in the middle of a dream, us girls were driving, there was a cow in the boot, then Jana announces:"I had an abortion"!!!
- Ba Bye San Francisco!
- A quick hot choc then off to the airport, i must say United is now my least favourite airline.
- People are weirdos, especially Oldies and Asian Tourists.
- Welcome to NY! So much warmer and huge, omg huge! Lights...
- Can't wait to explore.
Day 5
- Fuck! This place is hot!!!
- I feel sticky, dirty & sweaty.
- Wearing a 'Girls just want to have fun' T-shirt must be code for 'talk to me'...
- Went to Madame Tussauads Wax Museum - the models are so life-like, and i discovered i'm the same height as Usher, lmao.
- Shops here are open really late, we were out until 10pm and the town was pumping.
- Thank goodness this hotel is quiet!
- Took some really cool night photos.
- It's Fleet Week in New York, AKA all the Navy, Marines etc are in town with their ships to pick up chicks and walk around in uniform having their picture taken.
- Went to Toys'R'Us, there is a Ferris Wheel inside! OIA (only in America)
- Tried my first Tuna Melt... interesting, but of course there was way to much and i was so full.
Day 6
- Slept in until 11, body clock is still adjusting.
- Found our Double Decker hop-on hop-off bus, New York drivers are just as crazy as in San Fran (forgot to mention that before), they just honk.
- Took the Downtown loop, south through Greenwich Village, Soho, Chinatown, past the World Trade Centre to the Hudson River and back up the East Side.
- Only took pics of the Empire State Building, i think i was still tired, and not inspired!
- Did the mish to our Contiki starting point and had our pre-trip meeting.
- Delicious Pizza for tea, ran through the rain, back to our hotel for dinner in bed with The Goonies.
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