Today marked the beginning of our second half of the trip – The Northern Trail. We had breakfast and waited to meet our new leader in the lobby at Fairfield Inn & Suites.
*On May 29th 2019, I travelled with Trek America on their Grand Trek tour for six weeks around the USA. We began in New York, travelling south to the West Coast, then North back to the East Coast. I am not affiliated with Trek America. Read all my Trek America posts here. *
This whole day was really strange because half of our group had now finished the tour. However, it didn’t take too long to get talking to everyone. Our leader, Cat, did an introduction at the hotel and then we all set off
On the road again…♪
Santa Monica Pier – Venice Beach
Before we left LA, we had very quick stops at Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier. Just so that those who had just flown in had the opportunity to see these places whilst we were still in the area.
First Chipotle Visit!
I now fully appreciate this GIF! Chipotle is so good. I didn’t really understand what it was before I went there. If you haven’t been before, it’s a Mexican grill in a subway format. A little intimidating when you are queuing not knowing what the hell to do but roll with it, it’s worth it.
Santa Barbara
Our main stop for the day was Santa Barbara. Our leader dropped us off and pointed us in the direction of things for us to do.
We all stuck together and first headed to Stearns Wharf. There was an awkward but funny moment when we all ended up stood in a circle at the end of the pier. Everyone just trying to start conversation. It’s funny to think back to the beginning, to how well you then get to know everyone in just a couple of weeks.
We had quite a bit of time before we were being picked up. So we went and had drinks in The Cruisery. This restaurant has a really cool industrial/bicycle theme.
Old Mission – Santa Barbara
We had a quick stop at Mission Santa Barbara. Founded in 1786, the current building was constructed in 1812, after an earthquake. The towers were considerably damaged in 1925 but were rebuilt by 1927. The inside of the church has not be significantly altered since 1820. It would be really interesting to have more time to explore inside and learn about the History of Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
If you want a 360 view of Santa Barbara, head up the Clock Tower of the county courthouse. This Spanish-Colonial architecture is beautiful, constructed in 1929, it is still a functioning courthouse today.
Oceano Campground
I felt really bad for everyone who had just joined the trip as we started with the campground that was the worst..in my opinion. The facilities were pretty standard, however, there was no WiFi (not a huge issue) but also, NO POWER. The next day I had to brave the natural hair haha – an issue for someone with curly hair 😀 This was the only site that had no power access. We also were attacked by mosquito’s (no fault of Oceano CG). Also, we had an issue with broken tents when we set up the first time. Cat (our leader) was really good with the situation. All of these circumstances just didn’t make for the best time, however, that’s travel for you, these things happen! Us on the Grand Trek knew the sites would get better (hello KOA).
Rock & Roll Diner
No USA road trip is complete without dinner at a classic american diner. This was an odd experience but still pretty cool haha! This diner is located in Oceano, CA – very close to the campground.
Continue reading Trek America 2019
Let me know if you have any questions regarding Trek America or the places we visited ?
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