While it isn’t the end of the trip for us it is the official end of Route 66.
We decided to end our Route 66 portion of the trip staying in Palm Springs, a laid-back, walkable city with lots to see and eat, as well as a couple of friends in the area. However, we really wanted to add the end of the road sign as we also have the start of Route 66 sign from Chicago. So that’s day 3 to day 21 on the road of our 37 total day trip.
We have always planned our trips primarily around our schedule. We don’t base it on “outside forces”. Well, on this day a couple of things clouded this decision-making process. Number one was that we ignored traffic changes during the day through LA. It took us about two hours to drive to Santa Monica, but it took us 3 1/2 hours to drive back. Who knew LA rush hour traffic. In truth, everyone, but we ignored it and paid the price.
The second thing that clouded this trip was the loss of my wallet. We parked in a safe place by the pier as the garage was patrolled the whole time, but when we got to the car and I went to get my wallet out of my bag I noticed the zipper was open on top. Someone was able to unzip my bag and lift my wallet out without me noticing. I guess I was distracted by fun, people, and Duncan because I had no idea. So I lost $300, had to replace three credit cards, and won’t have a driver’s license until I get back to Minneapolis.
It is really a rookie thing to happen to a seasoned traveler. I’ve been all over the world, in places well known for slash and grab and subtle pickpockets alike and I’ve never lost anything. It wasn’t even high season on the pier, but there you go. Lesson learned and we move on. Keep your valuables in your front pockets and keep your hands on those valuables in high-risk areas. Also, always wear your bags on your belly, between your arms, even if you think there’s not much going on around you. That’s my reminder to myself as much as anything.
What’s the worst experience you’ve had losing something on your travels and did it force you to change your plans?
That’s all I can bring myself to post about Santa Monica, end of the road, thank you.
