Lonely Planet – California

California is the richest and most populated state in the US and is situated on the West Coast. Justine begins her journey in the Joshua Tree National Park – 800,000 acres of desert,which receives just 3 to 5 inches of rainwater a year. It’s a surreal experience, and Justine’s guide introduces her to several colourful local characters.
Next stop is Palm Springs, an artificial oasis in the middle of the desert and playground to the stars and idols of Hollywood’s golden era. She stays in a hotel which has been frequented bystars throughout the years, and meets the manager of The Raquet Club, where Marilyn Monroe was discovered. Just outside Palm Springs is a natural wind tunnel where 2 long mountain ranges on each side of the valley floor concentrate the breeze from the coast. Wind power is big business in California, and 3500 wind turbines generate enough energy for 2000 homes.
A 3 hour bus journey from Palm Springs takes Justine to the notorious City of Angels, Los Angeles. LA is a massive city which sprawls over 1000 square miles. Justine hires a car and cruises Hollywood, home of the movie industry, in search of the stars. Fame and fortune proves elusive, however, and she decides to explore the seedier East Side in the company of a couple of LAPD officers.