From the sunny coast of California to the bright lights of Las Vegas, we experience the diversity and beauty of this fascinating country.
Join us on our journey through sun, canyons, deserts and cities as we explore the most famous sights, hike off the beaten path and experience the unique culture and atmosphere of each regions. From the Californian surfer lifestyle to the snow of the Grand Canyon and the thrills of Las Vegas, this trip offers something for everyone.
Monday, 27/02/2023 Party in the USA
Our journey starts with the arrival at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). After collecting our bags, we head off to pick up our trusty companion for the next few days – our van! But before we hit the road, we make a quick stop at the local supermarket to stock up on food for our road trip. To finish off our first day in style, we don’t miss out on a real Californian treat in the evening: In-N-Out Burger!
Shopping in America is very different from shopping in Germany. Mega Pack, Family Pack or the Party Pack?
Tuesday, 28/02/2023 Hollywood glamour?
We start the day in Venice, where we soak up the relaxed atmosphere and enjoy a coffee in one of the charming cafes. The area is famous for its iconic beach, Venice Beach, which creates a vibrant atmosphere with its promenade, skate parks, street performers and colourful beach huts. We are very impressed of Los Angeles! We then make our way to the famous Hollywood sign – not to be missed. Once in Hollywood, we stroll along the Walk of Fame and admire the hand and footprints of famous personalities in front of the Chinese Theatre. For a breathtaking view of the city, make a detour to the Griffith Observatory. We spend the evening at the Santa Monica Pier, where we experience the exciting atmosphere of Ocean Park.
We were a little disappointed by Hollywood though. Where was the glamour of Hollywood that we were expecting?
Wednesday, 01/03/2023 Celebrity resort
Today we continue our journey along the Californian coast, stopping in Malibu to enjoy the beach and relaxed surfer atmosphere. Malibu is a fascinating town that combines natural beauty, luxurious estates and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. Anna is particularly drawn to the town. Then it’s on to Santa Barbara, a charming Californian coastal town known for its Mediterranean climate, picturesque architecture and laid-back atmosphere. We wander the streets and discover the odd shop! Of course, we can’t forget a Slurpee!
Oh, what a beauty you are, Malibu!
Thursday, 02/03/2023 Let's Go, Niners!
Our destination for today: Big Sur, a stunning coastal area with stunning views. An early start will take us to the famous Bixby Bridge, where we can watch the sun rise over the Pacific. We also make a detour to McWay Falls – we are drawn to waterfalls – and then enjoy the picturesque beauty of Carmel by the Sea. Our day ends in San Francisco, where we visit Apple Park in Cupertino and see Levi’s Stadium. The photo highlight of San Francisco: the cable cars! At the end of the day, we will enjoy an unforgettable sunset at the Golden Gate Bridge with a view of Alcatraz!
Too bad we are not in San Francisco during the football season! Standing alone in front of the stadium is a great experience, though! Someday we’ll be back to see the 49ers win in their home stadium!
Friday, 03/03/2023 Mike & Ike or Cheetos?
In the morning we visit the famous University of California, Berkeley and take a walk around the campus while having a cup of coffee. The system of Greek letters used to name the dormitories is not only very interesting, but also a decades-old tradition at the University of Berkeley. It provides each dorm with an individual identity and makes it easier to find your way around the sprawling campus. We then continue our journey through the varied Californian landscape. The day ends – as it should in America – with a mok-bang of American sweets!
Carlo’s favourite: Mike & Ike
Anna’s favourite: Cheetos
Saturday, 04/03/2023 It's gettin' hot
This day is dedicated to one of California’s most spectacular national parks – Death Valley. Hiking along the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, admiring the vast expanse of Badwater Basin and taking in the breathtaking panoramic views from Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View, we spend the day in the spectacular Death Valley National Park, one of California’s most fascinating places.
Sunday, 05/03/2023 From desert to snow
We leave California for Arizona. First we visit Hoover Dam, an impressive engineering masterpiece on the Colorado River, before heading to the Grand Canyon. We choose to visit the South Rim, which is less touristy (than the West Rim) and more authentic. The drive to the Grand Canyon is long, but the views of the snow-capped peaks are well worth the effort. We explore the various overlooks and enjoy the sunset in this majestic canyon. We spend the night at a cosy campground in the Grand Canyon National Park.
The twist: there is snow! From the desert straight into the snow! It’s truly indescribable to see the vastness and majesty of the Grand Canyon.
Monday, 06/03/2023 Along Route 66
We return to the Grand Canyon early in the morning to watch the sun rise over this magnificent canyon. Since it’s not far from the campground, we’ll be able to take full advantage of this magical moment. We then head out on the nostalgic Route 66, stopping in Williams and Chloride for a trip back in time. Williams, a quaint Arizona town on Route 66, delights visitors with its charming historic downtown lined with nostalgic motels, restaurants and shops. Chloride, a former silver mining town on Route 66, offers visitors a fascinating trip back in time with its well-preserved relics of the Wild West era. We cross the border into Nevada and spend the night in Boulder City as our Van Life adventure comes to an end the following day.
Route 66 and its history is so fascinating! Initially just a random stop, the road, with its towns and old diners, became another West Coast highlight – even if Chloride was a bit spooky!
Tuesday, 07/03/2023 King Arthur
We return our van and say goodbye to our faithful companion. The second part of our trip begins as we explore the exciting city of Las Vegas. On the first day we check into the Excalibur Hotel, get acquainted with the area and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Wednesday, 08/03/2023 From New York to Paris to Venice
Today we begin our tour of the famous hotels and casinos along the Las Vegas Strip. We visit the Luxor, Venetian, Paris, Caesars Palace, Cosmopolitan, Aria and Mirage. Of course, a visit to New York New York and Hollywood is not to be missed. We especially like the water show at the Bellagio next to the Eiffel Tower and the volcano at the Mirage next to Venice – something you can only say in Vegas. Then we visit the Old Las Vegas Strip, Freemont Street. The neon signs were really interesting, although Anna was a bit uncomfortable. If the new Las Vegas Strip is a lot, then Freemont Street tops it all – and not necessarily in a good way.
Of course we dare our luck in the casino and are even lucky enough to double our pre-set bet – $40, yay!
Thursday, 09/03/2023 The city that never sleeps
We take it easy on our last full day in Las Vegas, enjoying a delicious strawberry cheesecake at Caesars Palace and watching the interesting Atlantis show. We also take the opportunity to go shopping and take time to enjoy the city in all its facets – although this is a little more difficult for us knowing the contrast to the nature we experienced just a few days ago.
Friday, 10/03/2023 Out of the bubble
On our last day, we take a final stroll around Las Vegas before preparing for our flight home and returning with unforgettable memories.
Summary of Las Vegas: A sparkling city in the middle of nowhere in Nevada. A bubble you enter when you pass the Las Vegas sign. We would choose the other places on the west coast over the city of casinos any day, although our visit was definitely interesting and worthwhile!
Our trip to the USA was an incredible experience, exploring and enjoying the breathtaking scenery of California, Nevada and Arizona. From living in a van to the hustle and bustle of the big city, this trip offered us a wide range of experiences and impressions. We are grateful for all the unforgettable moments and look forward to returning.
