A Fall in LA

You all look really great! The program coordinator at UCLA was being very vocal about it during the photo shoot. I remember searching in vain in the mirror on that morning to find some signs of handsomeness. May be that’s just an American way of saying nice about anything and everything. Also I was not expecting her to say that “You all look great! Except you Feeebin” But I have seen many Americans greeting each other saying you look amazing/great/nice even though the other person looks as if he/she  just got out of bed. The key point here is that Americans are generally very courteous. Any random person you come across in the street will smile at you and greet you with a Hi or How is it going? They walk away as if they know the answer. After all, in America everything is great so what negative answer do you expect?

I started my exploration in the very first week, with Hollywood walk of fame and Santa Monica beach. UCLA had organized thanksgiving program in which I was invited to dine with an alumni from UCLA for thanksgiving dinner. They prepared a wonderful dinner for me and we had a highly intellectual discussion during the dinner. I had to use all my current affairs reading to be involved in the discussion.  This was little strange for me as my family usually discuss people and movies during our dinner time. 

At Hollywood walk of fame

The happening street of Santa Monica

Mr Clark and Family at Thanksgiving

For the next two weeks, I joined the UCLA hiking club for two different treks. One was at Devil’s Punch Bowl which was relatively easy. The next one at Santa Paula waterfall was highly adventurous as we had to do some rock climbing where a loose step could lead to a fall as deep as 20m below. The effort was completely worth it as we reached the natural pool at the end of the trek. I consider this as one of the toughest treks that I embarked upon, that too with a history of five shoulder dislocations.

First Trek @ Devils Punch Bowl

Second Trek @ Santa Paula. The toughest part

Santa Paula Pool

Enjoying a natural slider

The finals week came soon. I couldn't wait for the final night mischiefs that me and my roommates had planned. (I am leaving this to reader's imagination) In this excitement I finished my exam with half time remaining and went to the Jenss step to enjoy a cool sunset. The very next day we left for a trek to Hollywood sign trail. I extended this trek further to conquer Chahuenga peak as my friends returned back. At the end of it I visited the Bat cave famous from the Batman TV show in 1960’s

View from Janss step

With Roomies at Hollwood trail

Getting photo bombed @Chaheunga Peak

My impression of the entertainment capital of the world has been great so far. This vibrant city has a lot to offer and I am patiently waiting for more and more wonderful experiences.