Topic: Sightseeing

Mike and I arrived in Athens and our first impressions contrasted sharply with the warnings we'd heard. I regret not planning to stay longer but now I have a good excuse to return.

Alan, in a award-winning show of Irish adventure and hospitality, drove me across the countryside in search of a uniquely Irish experience. We found it on a hike with brilliant views, a refreshing swim, and a fun fair which caught us off guard in the small town of Kenmare.

On Saturday I took the Burren bus tour and had a great time so Sunday found me on another bus headed for Connemara. We saw plenty of Irish country side and the magnificent Kylemore Abbey.

On Saturday I took a bus tour of Burren, including the Cliffs of Moher. I was skeptical but it turned out to be an amazing experience where I saw caves, tombs, and castles and heard many stories about Ireland.

Either I really like galleries or I just get myself into situations where I end up visiting them. During the three-and-a-half weeks I spent in Edinburgh I didn't do a whole lot of touristy stuff. I explored Edinburgh Castle, climbed Arthur's seat, and dropped into the National Museum but that's about it.

I went to four galleries.

For Stuart, Mike, and I, Sunday was full of activity. Horizontal water, painted flags, and a whole lotta awesome. Awesome!

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, an industrial hive which has swallowed up nearby towns as it expanded over the last couple centuries. Mike and I grabbed a bus and spent the day there on Sunday to check out the city and visit some friends.

Mike, Kathrin and I visited Edinburgh Castle. The ticket past the portcullis is a bit pricey but we saw spectacular views of the city, read some interesting stories about Scottish history, and got to admire the crown jewels.

On Monday I checked out the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which, being in the oil city, had a lot to do with off-shore drilling. One of the guys in hostel leaves today to work on the rigs and he offered some insight into his job.