california trip (LAC)

[rob hod]

    Just though I'd share some motoring impressions on the recent trip we
made. Might be interesting reading for some.

    1,  Where did all those SUV's come from??  It seems like they must be
about 90% of the car market in so-cal, Last time we were there ('92) there
were a lot of big 'ole pickups, but I never expected to see so many SUv's
and so few ordinary saloon cars.

    2, Cheap gas, we paid anthing from around $1.20 to $1.70 , to us from
the UK that was a real treat, and helped us understand point 1 a bit more

    3, Speeds have increased. Last time we couldn't beleive how nearly
everyone seemed to pootle along at 55 or so. This time I was concerned at
how everyone bombs along the i-5 in their SUV's at 75-80 and nose to tail,
obviously driving an SUV means you can't die by conventional means.

    4, Now I know about the 'rice' car thing, plenty of twats weaving
through the traffic in them. Luckily you get warning as you can hear them
coming with their pea-shooter exhaust!

    5, Didn't see many Audi's, a fair few new ones, but not too many old
interesting ones. Did see a very nice looking 100 wagon in pearlescent white
('92,'93 model?) somewhere around Indio, and soon after an old mid eigthies
5K beater. Oh and a beige 80 (sport?) going along garden grove freeway. But
thats about it for the older models :(
    The UK is packed with 'em in comparison.

    6, Hospitality hadn't changed, and if anything was better than last
time. Listers Larson and Hanson to be commended in this respect, also a
honorable mention to Chris Dyer for a comprehensive list of sightseeing
suggestions (if we get a chance next time chris we'll try and make it out to
Santa Monica next time!)

    All in all a great time was had, a great holiday destination, and we'll
be back next year given half a chance!

rob