Episode 31: US West Road Trip (pt. 1) – Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Idaho

In this episode of "Sleepless in Singapore," I recount an adventurous road trip along the West Coast of the United States with my friend Markus. Landing in Las Vegas, I am immediately struck by the ubiquitous gambling machines at the airport. Markus and I reunite at the Luxor Hotel, and after a brief delay due to my flight, we embark on our journey in a less-than-ideal Dodge Challenger. Our first stop is a hearty breakfast at The Egg and I, followed by a visit to the impressive Hoover Dam, capturing the essence of American engineering and natural beauty.

Our travels then take us through the picturesque landscapes of Arizona, where we marvel at the Horseshoe Bend and explore the Navajo Arts and Crafts at the Cameron Trading Post. The vast red rock formations of Monument Valley leave a lasting impression, and we savor the tranquility of our remote Airbnb stays. As we journey through Utah, the green scenery of Monticello and the unique rock formations captivate us. In Salt Lake City, we are pleasantly surprised by the vibrant, inclusive atmosphere, visiting charming bookshops and enjoying local delicacies. The Bonneville Salt Flats and the quirky Shoshone Falls in Idaho add a sense of wonder to our trip, culminating in a memorable dining experience in Nampa.

Links:

• Hotel in Las Vegas | Luxor Hotel & Casino | Las Vegas Hotel — Luxor Hotel & Casino is a pyramid-shaped resort located on the Las Vegas Strip, offering a variety of entertainment, dining, and accommodation options.
• Home - Eggworks and Egg & I Las Vegas Family Restaurants — The Egg & I is a popular breakfast and brunch spot known for its extensive menu featuring waffles, eggs, skillets, and more.
• Hoover Dam - Wikipedia — An iconic American landmark, the Hoover Dam spans the Colorado River between Nevada and Arizona, providing hydroelectric power and attracting millions of tourists annually.
• Cameron Trading Post — A historic trading post offering Navajo arts and crafts, a restaurant, and lodging, located in Cameron, Arizona.
• Monument Valley — Monument Valley is a scenic region known for its towering sandstone formations and cultural significance to the Navajo Nation.
• Spitfire Smokehouse BBQ — A barbecue restaurant in Moab, Utah, offering a variety of smoked meats and traditional BBQ sides.
• Jailhouse Cafe — A local favorite for breakfast in Moab, Utah, known for its unique takes on classic breakfast dishes.
• The King's English Bookshop — A beloved independent bookstore in Salt Lake City, offering a wide selection of books and a unique "Blind Date with a Book" program.
• RubySnap — A bakery in Salt Lake City known for its gourmet cookies with a variety of unique flavors.
• Bonneville Salt Flats — A vast, flat expanse of salt crust in Utah, famous for land speed records and its stark, otherworldly landscape.
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