Living in LA can sometimes feel stifling, not just in the air but also in the heart, leading to moments of gloom or frustration. Haha.

So, I packed a bag and went on a 2-night, 3-day road trip to Reno, Nevada, following the highways. I set off on Saturday morning, feeling the cool breeze before the sun fully rose, taking the 10 Freeway eastward.

The desert landscape unfolding outside the car window was a completely different atmosphere from the city, and the vast sky and endless road already made my heart feel refreshed. I took a short break near Barstow to refuel and had pancakes for breakfast at a small diner. This is the charm of a road trip. Even if it's not a famous restaurant, the simple food you encounter on the road is delightful. Haha.

Around lunchtime, I stopped briefly near Death Valley to catch some wind and stared blankly at the desert. The sun was incredibly hot, but amidst that heat, I felt a strange sense of freedom.

As evening approached, I passed through Las Vegas and drove a bit further to reach the motel where I would spend the first night. I considered staying for a night while passing by the dazzling casino lights, but since I was mainly eager to keep driving, I decided not to stop. The hotel prices in Vegas were high, too.

After driving about 20 miles east of Vegas, I arrived at a seemingly decent motel, took a shower, and lay down, feeling the accumulated fatigue melt away as I fell asleep immediately.

On the second day, I got back on the road early in the morning. As I entered Nevada, the cities gradually disappeared, leaving only long, quiet roads. I turned off the music and listened to the engine sound, and as I drove, my cluttered thoughts began to clear up. The barren fields and distant mountain ranges visible through the window gave me the illusion of being in another world.

I had a simple lunch at a sandwich shop next to a small gas station, and surprisingly, the bread was crispy and the meat was generous, which was quite satisfying.

In the afternoon, I finally arrived in Reno. It was my first time there, and although it felt unfamiliar, the small casino buildings and scenery were oddly charming. I stayed at a small downtown casino hotel that I had booked in advance, and I remember playing a bit of blackjack at the casino. It was a $25 table, so I exchanged $300 and sat down for some fun. I won and lost, and after losing $50, I got up.

On the last day morning, getting back in the car to return to LA felt strangely light. Even though it was the same road, my heart felt relaxed and my mind seemed clearer compared to the way there.

Driving along the highway for a few days made me realize that travel is not about a grand destination but rather a time to reflect on myself and catch my breath during the journey. I want to suggest that when feeling stifled in LA, taking a drive along the highway to Nevada is quite a good option.