M is for Marilyn Monroe - images of America

Along with hundreds of other tourists, we came across a gigantic statue of Marilyn Monroe in Palm Springs, in fact she's massive*. She's presented in the iconic pose, laughing joyously; the pose exudes a sense of fun and is eye-catching.
(thanks to Hilary over at Positive Letters ... Inspirational Stories for the massive suggestion)

We heard accents from many different countries, England, Germany, Russia and Ireland along with many locals. Some of the people who queued politely and patiently to have their photos taken standing at Marilyn Monroe's feet may never have seen her in any movies - they were young, possibly the age she was when she died in 1962. (I've noticed my perception of age has changed as they years progress, some people might have perceived them as old!)

People were swapping phones and cameras, taking photos for people they'd never met before, so that everyone who wanted could have a memento as well. I was struck with how polite and orderly everyone was. The British are known for their ability to queue neatly - but they definitely aren't on their own!

It's testament, not only to excellent marketing, but the the allure of this fabulous pose that her legend lives on.

We barely come up to her knee caps!

For overseas visitors desperate for coffee, there are a couple of places opposite the statue (ie opposite Starbucks) which serve a drinkable cappuccino - not brilliant, but certainly better than most!
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