Getting stuck in traffic in Los Angeles is nothing unusual and we did expect to slow down on the 405. What was waiting ahead of us was still rather extreme: 3 hours of barely moving traffic after a fire started at the Angeles National Forest which caused the closing of several lanes on I-5.

Unable to reach San Francisco before the end of the day, we had to stop at a motel in Lost Hills, CA.

The next morning a slightly foggy but bright San Francisco Bay opened up before us.

Heading from Phoenix to San Diego in 120ºF heat.

Dinosaurs and reptiles sculptures keep us entertained along the way…

Getting closer to the California border.

California desert dunes.

No need to explain where Calexico is on the map.

Entering a strange mountain range. Strong winds and extremely high desert temperatures make the drive difficult.

Massive rocks forming the mountain range resemble underwater landscapes.

From natural to man-made shapes.

Approaching downtown San Diego.

The desert landscape opens up before us. Soon we cross the Texas – New Mexico border.

Las Cruces, New Mexico. A small town with a collection of vintage American sights.

Being on the road is an opportunity to discover the most unusual town/city names. Truth or Consequences ranks very high on our list.

“Spaghetti bowl” dressed in New Mexican colors.

Brief stop in Albuquerque. Notice the environmental signage design.

Approaching Santa Fe in rush hour traffic.

On a bridge, approaching Baton Rouge (pictured above). Beyond New Orleans, Louisiana appears differently: very industrial and deserted. It is a region that is trying to survive the end of the industrial era.

Being on the road is another opportunity to look at design: American trucks in all shapes, colors and sizes, a variety of water towers, factory buildings, and regional logos.

Texas is a place that strongly promotes its brand: The Lone Star State

The infrastructure in Texas is a reflection of the state’s wealth. In Houston (pictured above), the Lone Star appears on every pillar. Everything looks brand new, the road feels brand new.

30 miles from Austin: Texan landscapes in every direction. There is something beautifully authentic about the American countryside.

All packed and ready to leave Orlando

Driving through a storm for 2 hours between Ocala and Gainesville, FL.

Refueling at Love’s in Northern FL

Keeping the notepads, coffee and granola bars handy…

After hours of greenery we finally reach Mobile, AL

Shortly after leaving Alabama we enter Mississippi and drive through Biloxi

More trees, more billboards, a couple of hours til NOLA

I10 across Lake Pontchartrin, New Orleans is a few minutes away!

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