A brief encounter with California's surprising side
My visit to California was brief, just a sliver of its Southwest corner, but incredibly memorable. The vast flood plains I encountered were both amazing and a little unsettling, with signs warning against stopping or driving into water. It was an unforgettable sight, especially with recent puddles hinting at the power of nature. Join me as I recount this unique experience.
Navigating the unexpected flood plains
The most striking part of my short California trip was undoubtedly the flood plains. Driving through, I saw firsthand where roads had been washed out, with clear signs reminding drivers not to stop or enter standing water. It was a stark and intimidating landscape, particularly with the recent rains leaving puddles, creating a powerful impression of the state's natural forces.
Practical tips for your California journey
If you're planning a California road trip, here's a crucial tip I learned: try to rent your hotel and fill your gas tank before you cross the border into California, perhaps in Utah or Arizona. Both were significantly more expensive in California. On one leg, after leaving Wells, Utah, I planned for a five-hour drive but ended up driving nine! After frequent stops for water and breaks, I found myself wide awake, eventually reaching Needles, California. I decided against sleeping in my car at a rest area – they felt a bit too 'scary' – and opted for a Best Western. It was clean, though a little hard to find, and thankfully, they had coffee!
Embracing the sunshine and future discoveries
Despite my whirlwind tour, I'd tell anyone visiting California to take a moment to stop and enjoy the sunshine. Needles, even from my brief acquaintance, seemed like a pleasant city. I hope my limited experiences don't discourage you, because the country truly was amazing, and those flood plains were surprisingly unforgettable. I'm already eager to return and discover more of what California has to offer.
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