05 August 2011

We made it home …

We arrived home early on Friday 5 August. Our housesitter Jacqui met us at the front door, and so did Sammy and Bella. They’ve been so well looked after while we were away that they probably didn’t even notice we were gone!

TradeMeJune08-5 Bella 13-10-08 - 1 - Copy

We found the travelling quite tiring this time but once again, we have seen some amazing things and met some wonderful people. When we get home and talk about our trip, it is always the people we’ve met along the way who have made it so memorable.  Thanks to everyone who has followed our blog, we sincerely hope you enjoyed coming along with us.

02 August 2011

The J. Paul Getty Museum

… and in the afternoon we went to this stunning complex, donated to the city of L.A. by the oil billionaire Paul Getty and the Getty Foundation.  It sits atop a hill with a commanding view of L.A. and it houses permanent collections of famous art works, as well as hosting temporary exhibitions.  There are also buildings devoted to art conservation and research.  A very modern tram snaking up the side of the hill takes all visitors to the complex, and it’s all free, including entry.  What an amazing gift to the city.  We were extremely impressed not only with the artworks, but with the design, elegance, the beautiful gardens and relaxing spaces.  Highly recommended.

jpg entrance jpg garden jpg view
jpg bldg & trees jpg curves van gogh irises

01 August 2011

the L.A. touristico

In the morning we were taken on a tour of the usual attractions …

LA freeway
Heat, freeways, vehicles, buildings, mountains and smog, welcome to L.A.
guitars
Traffic islands, LA style
hollywood
Through one of the buildings on Hollywood Blvd you can see that awful sign
marilyn
Who else would you want to find sitting on the pavement?
starr gate
And who lives behind this gate?   Of course…
Ringo Starr (next door to Jennifer Aniston)
el capitan The highly decorated ceiling of the famous El Capitan Theatre wilshire blvd
Wilshire Blvd and the hotel where Pretty Woman was filmed
rodeo drive dog
If you is in Rodeo Drive baby, you gots to look goooood