Road Trips (and Road Trip movies)

I have always dreamed of crossing the US in a Cadillac…but crossing the UK in a Fiesta will have to do… for now.

Comedy and adventure movies have been set against the backdrop of a journey. Some have been getaway films, such as Thelma and Louise. Others have been bonding stories of friendship overcoming challenges. If you want a movie which is totally crazy and not remotely cerebral, then look no further than the Hollywood trash movie, Road Trip (2000) starring Sean William Scott from American Pie.

I recently had a road trip of my own from Cambridgeshire to Oban in Scotland. The seven hour solo mission was much less of a friendship story and more of a chance for reflection and discovery. I had never been to Scotland before and was astounded by the stunning views that scourged my eyes as I passed through miles of tranquil mountains, lakes and valleys.

Staying in a shared house with many friends, celebrating my best friend’s fortieth birthday, I enjoyed the fresh air, exploring the local cuisine, sightseeing the islands, reconnecting with old friends and snuggling up by a log fire.

Memories were made on that particular road trip and now I am on another trip (not solo) escorting my pal on a business trip and discovering Salford, Manchester.

More to come on Manchester- a follow up trip next week.

First time in Manchester

Well that is if you disclude a tour of Grenada studios in 1992.

The sun was beating down and I was exploring the Media City UK venue in Salford, which is where Coronation Street is currently filmed.The BBC seems to have set up shop here too as this is where they film CBBC, Match of the Day and BBC Breakfast. It is a brilliant location with outlet shops, eateries, bars by the water and a Cinema.

It is a really modern setting by a waterfront just three miles away from Manchester. The place is lively and funky and their seems to be a cool vibe to it. I may be too old to be cool but I do love to be somewhere fresh and invigorating.

Why not have have a night there?