VW Road Trip
Day 1: Monday, July 2nd
Day one of The Focus Group Cross Country Adventure did not disappoint. Amtrak delayed the Philadelphia start, but our Beetle TDI manual six speed turbo diesel made up for the schedule lapse. Starting at iconic Boathouse Row in Philly, Tim and John cruised to the Steel City—John’s place of birth. We did make a quick stop on the PA Turnpike where the food choices were limited, a Farmer’s Market sat empty, John found a salad, Tim had a Whopper and both got the dry heaves from a fellow diner. The Beetle TDI averaged close to 40 mpg. Considering all the hills and city driving we were delighted. We pulled into Pittsburgh at 3:30pm and the first stop was Edward Marc Chocolatier. Our friend Norm met us and we had a lot of laughs. Soon Christian, Mark, and Albert from Edward Marc hosted us in the store for sampling of the best chocolate on the planet. But not just chocolates. They also have The Milkshake Factory. We cannot do it justice. Tim and John agreed for a change that they could not pick just one. The Bacon Milkshake with REAL bacon was a favorite for Tim, John, and Norm—a great brunch alternative. We obviously got off schedule, but we’re so delighted to see our friends in Pittsburgh.
You can order the chocolates online or get them at Saks. Do it. Tim and John headed up Mt. Washington to ride the incline. John had fond memories of riding as a kid with his granddad. We loved the nostalgia and great views of the city.
Next stop Marietta, Ohio. Tim and John checked in to the Hotel Lafayette where the past is still present. John remarked that he would not want it any other way. Tim went to college in Marietta and John sometimes feels like he did. Both walked the campus and John remarked about its small town wonderful feel with the brick streets and pleasant folk. John also remarked that he now understands why Tim comes back each year for Homecoming. After a walk through town we ended up at The Adventure Galley. We met Bryan and Justin who convinced us to have the unappetizing sounding bratwurst soup. It was delicious. After dinner, a Blue Moon and a treat we bought from Edward Marc, our first day is complete.
Tomorrow the Beetle TDI, Tim, and John head to St. Louis via West Virginia, Kentucky, and all points west. Tim remarked that John did great with the manual six-speed. Photos and more at the Facebook page, Focus Group Radio.
