Start – 4241.5km
Finish – 4431.1 km
—————
189.6 km or 113.8 mi

So I left that place known as Gulf Shores. Drove up Hwy 59 into Loxely. The roads started getting hilly. The foothills of Alabama, I suppose, one could call them. I can get Scooter up to 50 going downhill, although I keep him at 45 because 50 makes me nervous. Only in that I expect Scotty to scream in the background, “She’s breakin’ up, Cap’n!” Of course, I’m sure Scooter wouldn’t break up. But why chance it? I’m in no rush.

Got into Mobile, went through my first tunnel. That was kind of cool. Not so long. But cool, nonetheless. Let Scooter take a break, walked around downtown a little bit. Parked him in front of a Dixie Jazz band playing on the sidewalk. At that moment, a guy in full Redcoat attire walked by. Typical. Glad to see Mobile, Alabama was exactly as I imagined it. Banjos and Redcoats. Probably more to that place than what I imagined. Maybe.

Quaint town. There was a gay pride festival going on in the park downtown. Went over there, took some photos. Left.

Wanted to go to Biloxi, Mississippi for the night, but the closest state park was in a town called Gautier. Beautiful, beautiful state park. And the ranger was incredibly nice and helpful.

Did some laundry in Gautier, had a fascinating conversation with a woman there; a Katrina survivor. Fascinating conversations with the ranger. Fascinating all the way around, Mississippi. And clean.

Honestly, I’d type more right now, but I kind of want to get on the road. I’m at a Starbucks in Gulfport, Mississippi and I want to get to New Orleans today. I’ll type more later.

Photos here.

Scott’s roadtrip across America is proudly sponsored by Miami Tour Company. For info on the best tours in Miami, visit MiamiTourCompany.com.