Los Angeles - February 18, 2006
What better way to begin a journey across the world than to get
lost in a hotel?

This was a Valentine’s Day I will never forget. February 14, 2006 … after a pleasant flight from New York, I arrived in Los Angeles ready to start an entirely different chapter of my life. Seconds after I threw my backpack down in my hotel room, the phone rang ... I tried to sound composed, but really I wanted to shout: "You’ve reached the room of one very happy RENEE!" Instead, I composed myself and said, "Hello."

On the phone was Eliza, part of the Travel Channel Staff. She welcomed me and informed me that I was the last to arrive and should be in the courtyard in five minutes. "No Problem," I said. Five minutes! I splashed some cold water on my face, took a deep breath and raced to the elevator. I was about to meet the four people that I would be spending 13 solid weeks with. What were they going to be like? And WHERE IN THE WORLD ARE WE GOING (literally)????

Before Los Angeles, the TJ’s were asked not to meet before the cameras were rolling. Wouldn’t you know that the elevator doors opened and there was Tony! I met Tony at the New York audition so I knew what he looked like. We gave each other a big hug and just as we started to catch up the door opened again. A guy about our age walked in with a big smile on his face. Hmmm ... It was suspect! Silence. Giggles. We all looked at each other and then this new person asked, "So, where are you guys from?" We all broke out into laugher and knew that we were three of the five Travel Journalists! Josh introduced himself and off we went.

What better way to begin a journey across the world than to get lost in a hotel? We ended up getting off on the wrong floor and, after asking someone, we found our destination. We entered the courtyard one at a time. When outside, I met Gabe and Tiffany. We were chatting and I could feel the excitement in the air. I knew instantly that this was a good mix.