Hello!

I am in Canada now. Arrived here a day before Canada day which was good timing! Been good to see some faces from the past, and to have the luxury of a bed and other basics!

The rest of California was pretty good. Went to San Diego for 5 days which is a really nice city. Fairly european in it's feel and clearly a large Mexican and Spanish influence. Went and checked out the Cabrillo Monument which was cool, and good views of the city across the bay. Had a couple of people from LA to hang around with and we spent a day at Sea World which was really funny! The dolphin and whale shows were very impressive, and entertaining. Also went to a baseball game.... Got rather bored, and now appreciate that people just go to watch so they can have a few drinks. It only cost me $5 for the ticket though and it was something that had to be done!

Also managed a trip across the border to Tijuana, Mexico which was really interesting. A few people had said that it was dangerous to go, so I couldn't get anyone to go with me, but I went anyway! Didn't fancy staying a night though. Spent the whole day walking round and chatting to locals, doing a bit of shopping and had a great lunch with a couple of beers; for $5! The place is really cheap, and has a really nice feel to it from what I saw. It is just a border town though so not a great deal going on, and 40% of the population and non-permanent. Getting to Mexico involved a tram for 20 mins and then a walk through an unguarded turnstyle. Getting back involved major queues, passport control, thorough questioning and interrogation! Typical US!

Flew out of LA to Toronto after I had experienced more transport issues in failing to get to Santa Barbara. Not that I expected anytthing less! It's good to be here though, and looking forward to catching up with mum (and possibly dad) soon. Home in a month, guess I need some plans for then now!

Love Ben. x