From Tuesday to Thuresday evening, Martin Fuchs and me went on a roadtrip to see a bit more of the surroundings, as we nearly were obliged not only to return with good research software but also with some proof that we actually had travelled around, too ;)

After a lot of hassle with Hertz Germany and their slightly ... misconceived order website, we got hold of a nice family car that should be our base for the next two days.

Since the car had an automatic gear shift, I even dared to drive a car again, yay ! Based on those experiences, I think I will gladly spend extra money on an automatic gear shift when I'm back and buy a car one time, in a desperate attempt to bespare Europe of my ... interesting gear shifting skills ;)

Santa Cruz was ... amazing.

Monterey was rough, but the marine history (Fisherman's Wharf, Cannery row, Bay Aquarium), gives it a distinctive character. A fishy one ? Partially. ;)

Big Sur would have been impressive if it hadn't been for the fog and our spoiledness from Monterey and Carmel in terms of landscape and sea views.

Hearst Castle was ... weird.

But see for yourself !