West Coast Highlights

Itinerary

Day 1-2, Los Angeles & San Diego

Our West Coast Highlights tour begins with a visit to San Diego. Jump on a surfboard where the climate takes no notice of the calendar. Browse the time warp that is the Spanish Old Town. Wander the world-famous zoo, clap the acrobatic orcas of SeaWorld or go one better. Between December and March you might, just might, spy migrating grey whales offshore. Nothing beats that.Accommodation: Camping included

Day 3-4, Las Vegas

A practice hand or two across the Mojave Desert is a top-notch idea because Vegas is coming right up. With its neon cowboy signs, giant sphinxes and the armies of folks who come to play the tables, Sin City is a far-out experience. Oh, and here's one quick betting tip: American roulette wheelshave two zeros.Accommodation: Hotel included

Day 5, Death Valley National Park

Okay, in summer it is a fearsome prospect, with various claims as the hottest, driest and lowest. The cooler months throw open a mind-blowing panorama of mineral-painted rock, paths that criss-cross toothy ridges and spots like Dante's View and Zabriskie Point, where the whole darn lot spills out in front of you. Tell everyone: you conquered Death Valley.Accommodation: Camping included

Day 6, Pacific Coast

Right, we're heading up US Highway 1, which puts you in box seats for some eyepopping coastal vistas. When we drop by Big Sur and Carmel, you can stop wondering why so many artists put paint to canvas here. One look and it's a no-brainer.Accommodation: Camping included

Day 7, San Francisco

Chances are the famous Frisco fog will come billowing into town at some point. It adds a whole heap of character, as if this place needed more. Check out those blue, yellow and pink 'painted ladies', Victorian homes, clunk up crazy slopes in the groaning streetcars and just wish it could all last a littlelonger.Tour ends at 17:00 in San Francisco on day 7.