Our recent travels to the British Isles began (aside from a very brief stopover in London) with a lengthy visit to Skye and the northwest of Scotland. After that first adventure we returned to Inverness and took a train to Aberdeen for a few days. After more than a week in the wild open spaces of northwest Scotland, returning to this urban setting was quite a contrast!
Continue reading Netherkirkgate
Every city has a unique character — though my perceptions can be affected by which parts of a city I visit, what I do there, and even the season. When we spent a few days in Liverpool recently, it was almost always gray and often wet, and our lodgings were in a section of the city that is vibrant and alive, though with some rough edges.
Continue reading Posters, LIverpool
My recollection is that we came to this little wide spot among narrow Alfama lanes by following an interesting-looking stairway that led off to the side from a busier way. Our general plan was to climb up through Alfama to a viewpoint, and then to traverse over to the St. George Castle. But we were not in a hurry, and when we saw the side-route we decided to investigate.
Continue reading Beco do Garcês
Lisbon, Portugal is a city of hills. (It is sometimes called the “City of Seven Hills.”) Deepening upon which direction you go, even short walks can involve some significant climbs. There’s a reason for the Elevador de Santa Justa, the famous elevator structure, and for cable cars or funiculars. A positive result of all of this climbing is that there are some spectacular views.
Continue reading Alfama, Tagus River View