The pandemic was terrible for travel but wonderful for wildlife. Closing US national parks gave the critters a break from those of us not satisfied with seeing them in captivity. Bobcats sauntered slowly down deserted roads and bears were reportedly sunbathing in parking lots. While they might not be glad to see us, it might be easier to see wolves and bears now that they’ve had to spend less time hiding from humans and more time mating.
Something’s happening in California’s High Desert. Apparently, the dusty, diminutive towns not far from the famous Joshua Tree National Park are no longer all sandy scrub and dirt paths. The creative crowd who’ve suffered the city of L.A. long enough, (and–let’s be honest here–those who simply can’t afford to live closer to civilization), have increasingly been making the two-hour commute east. Thus, we witness once solitary sun-cracked rough roads becoming a growing thoroughfare of hip, assorted eateries, vintage boutiques, and retro motels.