February half term saw 51 excited pupils and staff depart for the West Coast of the USA for the Humanities Fieldtrip.  The first stop was San Francisco and Pier 39.  The girls got exploring straight away and sampled some of the culinary delights that San Francisco has to offer.

The next day, sight-seeing was on the agenda, although with President Obama in town, some places were hard to see.  We managed to go to Lands End, Lombard Street, Union Square and the Golden Gate Bridge.  Alcatraz was visited in the afternoon, where everyone listened to the memoirs of the past inmates and guards as they guided us around the infamous prison.  We even got to meet a past correctional officer who regaled us with his tales of Al Capone!

The next stop was fabulous Las Vegas.  We had a walk down Fremont Street to look at the Vegas of yesteryear, before heading back up to the modern strip.  The first stop off had to be at the world famous Bellagio fountains.  After watching the performance, we walked excitedly to Caesar’s Palace and the Forum shops! We made Michael Kors a millionaire all over again with all our purchases!  An early night was the order of the day for our early start to the Grand Canyon the next day.

A six hour drive went easily by passing over the Hoover Dam and a stop in Seligman, the famous stop on Route 66 where the inspiration for the Cars animated film was taken from.  We reached the Canyon and disembarked the coach at Blue Angel Point in order to take in a 2.5 mile walk around the rim to get a better look.  It truly was breathtaking and awe inspiring. 

After a long day, we headed back to our hotel to get a good sleep for our long 9 hour drive to tinsel town – Los Angeles.  We had arrived just in time to have a swim in the pool and go out to the famous Jerry’s Deli for a taste of true American Cuisine.  We were not disappointed with our large portions!

The next day, we went to Universal Studios.  Excitement spilled over at the gate when we met some famous actors.  Eventually, we got into the park and raced for minion madness, the new ride based on Despicable Me.  Rides, shows, eating and shopping were enjoyed all day by all members of the group, even the teachers who survived the Mummy ride!

Our final day on the tour saw us visit Hollywood.  We went to the famous “Walk of Fame” to see that it had been taken over by the Oscars.  A considerable amount of posing was done on the red carpet before we set off for Beverley Hills and Rodeo Drive – for a look out the window of the bus!  We got off in Santa Monica for a final few hours of shopping before heading back to the airport for the long journey home. 

A fabulous time was had by all who went on the trip and it really was an experience of a lifetime.  From learning about tectonics, seeing earthquake proof buildings, visiting “The Rock”, shopping, theme parks, eating, swimming and hanging out where the rich and famous do, there was something for everyone!