It began with my regular run which today took me right to the end of Manhattan Pier. I don't think I could ever tire of that route and only wish my knees were strong enough for me to run every day while I am here.
The first stop of the day was the Hollywood Bowl Viewing Platform situated on Mulholland Drive, the perfect vista to stop and take in the breathtaking views over the city which included the most famous view of them all ... the Hollywood sign!
The drive up to Hollywood was relatively straight forward, I definitely feel like i've got to grips with the LA driving but don't think I will ever get over how many cars there are in this city. From seeing how busy the roads were at 11am I have some idea of what they must be like during rush hour, something I hope I never have to experience! Of course the added stress of having three bored and hungry children in the back of the car didn't exactly help my concentration levels but after just under an hour we arrived at our destination, and we weren't disappointed.
It's hard to explain just what it feels like to see those nine white letters perching proudly on the edge of the Santa Monica Mountains, but it was a moment I will never forget. Although the viewpoint is still a considerable distance away, you can't help but feel spellbound by the incredible history that has captivated this part of the city for the last century.
From here, we made our way down towards Hollywood Boulevard, parking at the conveniently located Hollywood and Highland Center. You can tell straight away that this is the Leicester Square of Los Angeles, the streets are peppered with so called street artists dressed up (badly) as favourite film characters, trying to earn a living from tips given in exchange for photographs. Of course, never ones to miss out on a photo opportunity Louis did his very best Superman impression, accompanied by a very muscly, Clark Kent.
Look beyond the tacky attractions and cast your eyes to the floor and you soon remember why so many millions of tourists flock to this street every year. With over 2,400 5-pointed bronze stars imbedded in the sidewalk, you feel as though you are walking through time. From Charlie Chaplin to James Dean, Mickey Mouse to Michael Jackson, every one has played a part in Hollywood's glamorous and vibrant history and it was fascinating to visit this eponymous landmark.
Walking away from the sidewalk, in front of the famous Chinese Theatre we found ourselves surrounded by the signatures, foot and hand prints of acclaimed movie stars from past and present. Putting my feet over the footprints of Gene Kelly sent shivers up my spine and brought back happy memories spent with my father who had such a love for old Hollywood musicals, as I do today.
Another personal highlight would have to be Marilyn Monroe who along with Jane Russell immortalised her handprints in 1953. The photograph capturing the moment is still iconic of the actress and I imagine literally millions of women have place their hands in the very same spot over last 60 years.
Hot and hungry we searched for a lunch destination and found the perfect place in Johnny Rockets. An all american diner with neon sign at the door, classic dining booths and even a mini jukebox on the table, the menu was reasonably priced and the food was very tasty.
Our last scheduled stop of the day was of great interest to me, as I consider myself to be quite a sweet connoisseur and have the sweetest tooth on the planet. Sweet! claims to be the biggest and best candy store in the world, stocking over 11,000 different varieties and to say that the children and I (and Misa) weren't just a little bit excited to go in would be an understatement. Just under an hour later I left having spent $84 which if my calculations are correct is just over £54 worth of candy!
It was well worth it though if only for the slow and hot journey home and I know the benefactors of my shopping trip (you know who you are) will be eternally grateful (if I don't eat them all first!)
Of all of us, it was definitely Holly who enjoyed herself the most today. Seeing her name on virtually every street corner and signpost in sight made her feel so special, she summed up the day perfectly as we drove back up the I-110 by saying 'I hope you all had a lovely day in my town ... Holly Town'
Great blog! Sounds like you're having a "AWESOME" time! You'll soon be feeling like a local! Looking forward to hearing more about what you're doing xx
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