Tucson, Arizona

March 11-13, 2023

Saguaro National Park is home to the largest Cactus in the world the Saguaro Cactus. When doing the research, I thought these cactuses grew all over the United States, but turns out they only grow in Arizona and Senora Mexico, and some areas of California. The cactus can grow to more than 50 feet in height and live to more than 200 years old. They can store up to 1000 gallons of water and weigh upwards of 7 tons in weight. Many animals in the area need the Saguaro to survive by eating the flesh to gain access to water in the dry Sonoran Dessert. 

The drive to Arizona took around 5 hours from where we live. It was long but rather quick. As I drove the first leg I thought why does driving in the United States go by so much quicker than Germany? In Germany when there is an exit/on ramp the speed limit drops distracting progress. But so far in the Southwest I've notice we keep on driving the same pace. 

Our first meal was Inn N Out burger. I've never had an Inn N Out Burger so I was excited to say the least. The verdict: very salty, but a nice tasting cheeseburger nonetheless. We also got fries animal style which was okay. I like the price I had to pay, only $18 for the entire meal for me and Michelle. After the meal, we drove to Trader Joes to buy some goodies, and then to Walmart to get some stuff. 

I booked a hotel near the airport. It was a Best Western. Although not lavish, Best Western has a solid reputation. The hotel is mainly for business people coming into town for meetings and conferences. The Best Western rooms are spacious, has a gym, pool, and breakfast is included. 

Even though we are on vacation, I like to get into routine rather quickly. I needed to find the hotel gym and figure out when to exercise. I did and jogged around 2.66 miles on the treadmill that first day and even broke a descent sweat. That first day was a doozy and considered a travel day. Michelle and I both rested and went to sleep.