For all that I've been able to speak with friends and colleagues via Skype and other technology on my trip so far, it's not quite the same as having someone with me.

Well, when I get to San Francisco that's exactly what I'll have.
The character in question is one Joel Levinson, and he'll be acting as my guide in Los Angeles, the city he lives in. Things he says he's done:

1] Travelled across America dressed as a giant smoothie

2] Posed naked as a model

3] Sold strudels

4] Taught a course on the history of rock'n'roll

5] Crocheted scarves and afghans

6] Worked as a chauffeur - that's good, cos he's going to be driving me around.

I'm not sure if he's multi-talented or just struggles to hold down a job.

Actually I don't know him at all, but I'm intrigued to meet him. If he rings any bells with anyone out there could they ping me with stories and character assessments?
My thoughts: we'll either get on like a house on fire or be strangling each other within minutes.