Today began with packing. This involved much shoving and cramming! All zips done up we went to a local Mexican bar for breakfast…we had a 2 for 1 voucher from the hotel. The food would have been good IF…. it had been hot and we hadn’t waited nearly 45 minutes for it.
We decided to delay checkout as we had such a lovely terrace view but finally we packed up and moved on towards Phoenix.
As we had missed out on the cathedral in the rock we took a punt and managed to get a parking slot. The views were tremendous from that height. Note the well cared for villa and garden at the base of the rock.
We then proceeded out of red rock areas into the desert countryside. Miles and miles of scrub.
Mark had sorted a lunch picnic spot called Badger Springs. Driving into the recreational park the area was deserted and quite depressing. It must get busy as there was the composting toilet and trail route signpost. Following an off road track we picnicked on rocks being aware that rattle snakes were in the area. A swift meal break.
An unusual bird did give us a song and it stayed for a while. We think it was a Gambel’s Quail.
The temperature had soared by now so we returned to the aircon in the car and drove towards Phoenix airport.
Some interesting scenery began to appear with white crumbly rock and many cacti.
Starbucks provided not only a coffee and driving stop but a close up of the large cactus which was in flower at the top.
As we approached Phoenix the traffic built up. The Intetstate highways crossed and many many slip roads led off. Each caused a slowing up of traffic as drivers changed lanes.
Bridges were well decorated. I am sure such plaster and metal work would be graffiti covered in UK.
Finally we arrived at the car return garage. All highly efficient and soon we were on a monorail train to our terminal. After checking in we had a long wait until the Airbus 350 was ready. On take off the sun was just setting.
We are now home feeling a bit disoriented from the time change. The countryside looks extremely lush after our desert stay.
Final comments on our observations….
Portaloos abound….in the oddest places
Rest rooms generally very clean and available
The girls in Vegas dress in a very provocative manner.
Very little litter seen
Courteous drivers
Sales tax in some places 20 % and generally cost is guesswork
The tipping system is better if the bill gives suggestions
Tricount really worked for us
This blog is a useful reminder of an epic tour….lots of photos to sort
Some truly awe inspiring scenery
We are tired!!!! 2000 miles driven by Mark