Driving observations

Distance traveled today 230 miles (339 km).  Getting out of SF was a challenge but reasonably straight forward.  Out the gate turn right then 30 metres, turn right on to the 680.  Left at 10 to avoid traffic -  but bloody hell the first hour was all go!  Cars everywhere and speed limit 65 mph but everyone doing 80 mph (about 140 kph).  It was mentally challenging with 4 lanes. 

Have found you keep in the right lane you get screwed as all the exits go off this and sure as hell you will take one and then you have to find your way back on to freeway.  Next lane is the best as not too fast and you can look at the signs.  

So when driving you are:-

1.   looking at GPS and listening

2.   looking at signage cause you are old and don't trust some lady on GPS telling you what to do

3.   looking at both side mirrors making sure no one side swipes you

4.   keeping an eye on the dude in front brake lights so he doesn't stop suddenly

5.  convertible driving beside you with 2 blondes, low cut tops

So is a bit nerve racking but after 90 minutes traffic slows and pace a bit slower.  After getting some gas made a wrong turn (was on highway 1 around the coast) but GPS took quickest route and put me on the 101 freeway but made the trip quicker to San Luis however missed seeing coastal scenery.

Where I got the gas there were huge fields of strawberries and I was told that I was in the strawberry capital of the US.  Further down the road I was in this valley, hills either side and there were vegetables all types, as far as the eye could see.  If you have driven along the Canterbury plains multiply that by 3.  No sheep, no cows just fields of vegetables and John Deer tractors everywhere and fields just full of workers.

Hot ride this afternoon, 38 NZ degrees so now going to have a quick look around.  There is a cafe bar opposite motel (guys try America best Value Inn, they are cheap and not to shabby).  So tea there tonight, then plan route tomorrow and find somewhere to stay.

Am going to rename GPS Jan as she is always telling me where to go (just kidding).  She has always given me good directions in my life.  On the plus side this Jan doesn't answer me back (notice how brave I am when she is a few thousand miles away)!!

Strawberry fields.

Location:San Luis