#40 Alibaba Motel (Jennifer)

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One of the famous/infamous landmarks along the 55 fwy heading south is the AliBaba Motel (off Newport Blvd and 22nd).   It is of significance because it was once a fine establishment to stay in when visiting Costa Mesa/Goathill back in the day, but also because it is of personal value to me.  Upon leaving my marriage with my 6 (now 16 year old daughter) from  a move to Northern California, we returned to Costa Mesa--our home.  When we were exiting the freeway, she said,  "Oh Momma, the AliBaba! We're Home!"  And every single day that I drive past, I think, "I am home."  The way the light is reflected off the gold roof is phenomenal.  The fact that teenagers now rent the rooms out for a night to party.  It has evolved as the OC has evolved and as my daughter and I have evolved.  For better or worse, it still stands and represents home to me and to her and probably to many others.  Take a look!  MAP