I have to say that Walnut Creek is one of the most relaxing places I've ever been to. If I had to retire somewhere it'd be Walnut Creek without any doubt. I find that I can't associate it with work or stress now, that would just ruin it for me.
The aim for going to America this year was to have a rest but to also start focusing on what I'm interested in such as art, photography and mainly interior design. I saw some beautiful houses, buildings and towns in California which helped to diverse my ideas about design.
The condominium in which my grandmother lives in was surprisingly one of the most inspirational places that I stayed in. The design and atmosphere was stereotypically American and was all very organised, but there was an element that made it seem more comfortable and reminded me of home. Since the condo was in a valley, the best spots could be found at the top of the hills. They were referred to as the "million dollar hills" and it wasn't just the houses and expensive cars that earned them that name. The hills were covered in dead grass which the Californian residents referred to as the 'golden hills'. In reality they were just dead, brown and a fire hazard but when I went to see them up close for myself, they were gold and light and shimmering from the sun. The sun was setting over the other side of the valley and everything seemed perfect on that hill, and that view made me realise why over 10,000 retired Americans had decided to live within the condominium.
