In the national park the only other drain on our bank balance than food was
petrol, but at least this commodity came with entertainment included. There
are only about two places to buy fuel in Death Valley, resulting in inflated
prices. Unfortunately we had to re-fuel while we were visiting, either that or
risk becoming stranded in the middle of the dessert. The free map we had of
the valley indicated where fuel could be purchased and the symbol - a single
old-fashioned pump - bore a striking resemblance to the reality. We had to
ring a bell for the attendant, as she was also the shop assistant in the nearby
attraction – Scotty’s Castle. When she came over she told us that young 'mo
fos' sometimes ring the bell and run off - charming! She did give us more
petrol than she charged us for at least, having admitted to us she was 'blind'
and could not read the dial.... I'm sure that it could not have hit their profits
much though!
So, what were our overall impressions of these two different places? Well,
Death Valley is big, beautiful and peaceful. Somewhere where we generally
felt comfortable and relaxed. Vegas is noisy, crowded, visually stimulating and
very tiring to visit - like Disney but with more porn, gambling and alcohol! It is
a cool place to visit, but if we had had less time there I do not think we would
have minded. Though saying that it was very nice having a proper bed and
bathroom after three straight weeks in the van!
And where next? Well, back to basics and the Grand Canyon - leaving
Las Vegas twinkling behind us.