Oregon

So here we are in Oregon. Surprisingly it took us only 2 days to drive all the way from Paso Robles to Klamath Falls with a stop for the night in Los Banos. We were surprised at how big Los Banos looked but I think it is because the town is mainly stretched along the highway. It is 5 miles to the east of major freeway but it has several small neighbouring communities.

By the time we reached Klamath Fals (KF for short) it became dark. As usual we got lost like one often does in a strange city without a map. We had a reservation for a motel and an approximate idea where it was but like I said we usually get lost. So when we saw motel 6 we decided to stay there for a night.

Downtown street in Klamath Falls

Motel 6 is a typical cheapskate motel that offers only the very basic amenities. The interesting thing about is that no matter where you are the faucet never seem to work well. The showers are barely functional and the sink is just a disaster. Of course do not expect any luxuries like a mini fridge or a microwave. But it is okay for what is is.

This particular motel 6 was right next to a restaurant called the Black Bear. Now it is a pretty good restaurant serving typical American food, whatever that is. We went there and by accident discovered a secret of Black Bear that make it look much more attractive than other restaurants. And I am going to reveal this secret to you.

The secret is this: you can order just one portion on the menu and share it (I presume you don't go to a restaurant by yourself). The portions are really just that huge. If you share a dish you get just enough food for half the price. As their prices are average, imagine that you paid half and for two people it makes a much better deal. We went there a few more times, always shared and never left hungry. There is plenty on one plate for two. And coffee refills are unlimited too.

America's Best Western Inn

So the next day we went to the motel for which we had reservation, America's Best Value Inn. The place was run by Indians. We actually came a day earlier but they did not care. They gave us a room with even a bigger bed and a very nice room it was. For only $5 bucks more than Motel 6 you get to enjoy a much nicer room with a fridge and microwave, a real breakfast and the best shower and sink faucet I have seen in any motel so far in this price range. The front desk people were very helpful and cancelled my reservation as I did not know how to do this. The breakfast was terrific: cereal or toast, coffee or cocoa. Good tea was available all day long. The only thing that was not true in their little advertising was a lake view. That view was blocked by another motel and storage place (which we used) across the street.

 The "lake view" from the motel

It is possible that there was a view in the old days. Garden setting was a bit of an exaggeration too unless a parking lot can be considered a garden. In general we were very satisfied and would definitely recommend this motel for passing through or staying for a while.