California 2025, Day 11, Still on the Road (Bakersfield - Las Vegas) and Death Valley ☠️

Wow, what a day of extremes. First, extreme solitude and vastness on the roads towards Death Valley, then extreme temperatures (around 50°C) and extreme depths in Death Valley, and finally, extreme hustle and bustle in Las Vegas (more on that tomorrow). On the way from Bakersfield to Death Valley, I realized for the first time just how damn big America is and the vastness this country encompasses. Of the 4 1/2 hour drive to Badwater Basin in the middle of Death Valley, we spent 4 of those hours driving through endless desert landscapes and steppes. Often we were completely alone on the road and could discern no signs of human civilization other than the road itself. In Death Valley, we were of course almost overwhelmed by the intense heat each time we exited our air-conditioned car. However, getting out is definitely worth it: whether it’s sand dunes, canyons, or the dried-up salt lake at America’s lowest point (86m below sea level), Death Valley offers excitement, fun, and play for the whole family. Games like 'Who topples over first while sprinting across the salt lake' or 'Who can get sunburn blisters the fastest' might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they remain popular among young and old alike. Eventually, you may get tired of all the rocky deserts, even if the terrain and/or color of the desert changes every few miles: sometimes classic yellow sand desert, then a reddish-brown rocky desert, and finally, an almost black pebble desert; there is definitely something for stone enthusiasts here.

As for Las Vegas, we only need to say this: we are staying at Paris (the one with the Eiffel Tower replica), which is directly across from the Bellagio and therefore also directly opposite the famous water fountains. We can't report much yet, as we spent almost the entire day in the car or in Death Valley. However, the first impression is already overwhelming.

To be continued...

Favorite snack during long car rides: Wheat crackers (our favorite: Wheat Thins from Nabisco)