Here There and Everywhere

Throughout my journey I tried to journal and document parts of my journey by taking notes via my blackberry phone and when possible I employed my camera to help me capture various memories along the way.

DUBLIN: "town of the hurdled ford"

Capital of Ireland

My flight left Abu Dhabi around 2:30am and landed at 7:15am. First stop on my journey is Dublin and our flight landed several minutes ahead of schedule. The eight hours of sleep did not really happen. Between the two meals a dinner and light breakfast snack, I felt exhausted. However once a saw a flash of deep green pastures and cloudy horizon, I was set. 

Within minutes of de-boarding my flight I got exactly what I was looking for: little rain drizzle and refreshing 50 degree weather. If I was not so focused on finding a bus, I would have stood on sidewalk for a few minutes. Instead I did my best to not look like a tourist and walked with confidence as examined the different buses lined up. Granted I already stand out in the airport. I did not see any other African Americans in the area or on my flight. Not a deterrent just mere observation. I was just delighted to be officially in Ireland!

Besides being economically, I thought the bus would be the best way to see the city. However, I had not considered what type of impact the rain and humidity would have on one's ability to look outside. So I do not have any images to show from my airport trek to hostel. From what I could initially see the community looks very quaint and driving is on the opposite side of the road and streets are very narrow.

Because I could not check into my room since it was around 8am, I decided to partake in a free walking tour.  Within my groggy state, I was still delighted to be walking around Dublin and excited about the rain and bit of low temperatures. 

 Started with a lovely walk around to the Dublin Castle.

The Dubh Linn Gardens. Snake eyes serve as lights for helicopter pad at the gardens.

 Supposedly this is a their CIA building. Defense right in sight.

 Basking in the rain.

 The Needle on O’Connell Street.

Old Irish man stopped our group to tell us two stories. Shook my hand and thought I was from Nigeria also started speaking to me in Arabic. Followed us with quick step and cane at his side for a few more lights.

Trinity College

A visit, actually several visits to Trinity College. Some days it was rainy and others it was sunny. Nonetheless, it was a beautiful site which was always on my walk.

                     In 1904  it was the first college to admit women in Britain and Ireland.

Unexpected celebrity interaction on campus- Jack Gleeson, from Game of Thrones. 

He plays Joffrey Baratheon character.  

 It is also the home for the Book of Kells, which is known for being the Old Library. 

It contains a famous 9^th century gospel manuscript.

I could not take pictures inside due to rules.  However on a tour I did learn that the Long Room in the Old Library was used in Star Wars II: Attack of the Clones, the Jedi Archives. There was some controversy and/or lawsuit which ensued after George Lucas visited the college and library was featured in the movie. Nonetheless, from first hand encounter, the inside definitely looked like what was portrayed in the movie:

 A glimpse/replica of  what it appears like today.

Image from the movie, Star Wars II.

Trinity gates’ entrance at night.

Around the city 

 Whelans Pub, Wexford Street; featured in film: P.S. I love you.

 One of the main stages.

 I need to rewatch the movie soon and see how these couches were featured.

My Saturday was a very low key day which involved more touristic endeavors by seeing more of Dublin.  It helped to have a local tour guide who was able to explain locations around the city.

 St. Ann’s Parish on Dawson Street.

 Walking around St. Stephen’s Green area.

 Eddie Rocket’s a diner. First time I heard of Eddie, I thought he was a cousin to 

Johnny Rockets (USA).

 The usual/ unusual Captain Americas.

 Entrance of St. Stephen's Greens park.

Infamous Viking Tours.

Enroute to the Guinness; still getting used to the drivers’ positions on the right hand side.

 Let the tour begin.

 The deed for the Guinness Storehouse.

 Taking a moment to sample the goods.

 Some of their previous marketing materials.

Made it to the top of the storehouse (Gravity Bar) for a full complimentary pint.

 Thanks to my tour guide Sean, we were able to navigate the large storehouse.

 Looking out around Dublin via large windows at Gravity Bar.

 Leaving the Storehouse.

 The ridiculously large red taxi we took to our next destination.

 Voila! The Old Jameson Distillery. 

 Taste Test: Scotch Whisky vs. Jameson vs. Jack Daniels.

 Within minutes I am “certified”!

 Sunday I was trying to decide where to go for the day, but also keeping in mind the weather changes per minute and luggage restrictions on my upcoming outgoing flights. 22lbs and my bag has to meet certain measurements. This only mattered for my way to Edinburgh and Cardiff. As for Madrid, I could add a bag if I wanted since I am traveling on larger airline.  And might strongly consider that option depending on how I manage weight of backpack on next 2 flights. Instead I decided to go for a bite and walk around Dublin.

 

It seems quieter since some restaurants do not open till later. I have noticed lots of Spaniards in Dublin. From the conversations I have had, most come for jobs and opportunities also English infusion. One of my roommates for a few days, was here and on her way to bed and breakfast work in Galway. She planned to spend 3months of her holiday to immerse in English. Other people I have met came here for college and never left.

 Looking out the corner of Fleet Street and D’Olier Street.

 Where Pearse meets College Street.

 Bank of Ireland.

 Ha'penny bridge over River Liffey.

 Could not resist taking this picture-it says it all.

 Temple Bar area street sign.

 Construction around Dame Street.

 The Tourist /Info Center.

 Outside the Stag Head, traditional Victorian pub.

Last night was spent watching Euro 2012. Since I had started my journey, I have watched a few games  England vs. Sweden, Portugal vs. Netherlands and now Ireland vs. Italy.

Too bad the Irish team did not win that night, but I did learn something. A Dublin“er” told me that technically a “good pub is one without a TV, and it does not get dark in this region till 10:30pm. Accomplishment!

Peaceful Dublin at night

That evening I went to bed at 12am on Tuesday to wake up for a 4am airport shuttle to airport. Surprisingly I could see people on walking around taking smoke breaks, waiting for buses etc. Probably the best time to admire the bridges across the River Liffey. Looks like I was not the only one heading to airport. There were two of us and the driver was very nice and even concerned with making sure we were comfortable with the shuttle temperature. On the way outside main city limits, it looks like sun is slowing rising.

Got to the airport in 20 minutes and it looks like a happening place at 4am.

Nothing like a bit of Irish flare.

Just in case you were not picking up on directional cues.

Next challenge is getting through the airport and hopes that I am not charged with excessive baggage weight. Ah Ha! I passed the process and made it on board without any hassles and 2 open seats next to me.  Brilliant. Now onto Edinburgh, Scotland on a 45 minute flight.

“Happy Days” –Restaurants/ Food Highlights

 Cabbage pie and mash

 Could not resist the hot wings

Ham sandwich with cranberries

 Irish version of a BLT

 Wedge Salad with Chicken, Porter’s House

Dessert time at Porter’s House

Slainte! Trying a Smithwick’s Ale at Buskers

Freshly Homemade Soup with McCambridges Irish whole meal soda bread.

 Roasted Mediterranean Vegetable Salad with Chicken

 The Nachos were not exactly what I had expected

Chicken with veggies and creamy mashed potatoes: Crema de pollo

 Another meat delicious meat pie and salad

 Caesar Salad, at Trinity

 Had I discovered this Tesco sooner, I could have stocked up on snacks. Instead I purchased cereal bars for the road and cheap socks. 

EDINBURGH: The fort on the hill meaning

Capital of Scotland

Landed 20 minutes ahead of schedule to horse race soundtrack because airline was boasting its pride of continuous records of on time flights. Still looks very cloudy/grey outside. 

I arrive at the hostel around 8:30am and I am purely exhausted. As usual I cannot check in till later in the day. After I meet few people in the lounge area and have some free breakfast, I opt for a nap in the “movie theater” while watching Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. I wake up at 12pm, check into my room and take a nap for a couple hours. Once I wake up, I take time to walk around on my way to lunch I am mesmerized by this:

 Edinburgh Castle.

I cannot believe I am this close to this majestic beauty.

Even as I walked up the street, I had to take another picture.

 Following lunch, I decided to be a tourist and hop on Edinburgh World Heritage bus tour.

Overlooking East Princes Street Gardens by the Waverley Bridge.

 Opposite view, towards the Old City.

 Nothing but smiles as I begin the journey.

 

Around the city

Deep ravine and crossing Deans Bridge

 Stewart’s Melville College

 Concentrating on the details

 Around the Grassmarket area

 Interesting story with the pub on the far right “Maggie Dickson’s Pub”.

Maggie Dickson was hung at the gallows for concealing pregnancy but woke up later in a coffin with stiff neck. Driver heard tapping on casket when he stopped for drink on a hot day and discovered that she was still alive. Magistrates decided that she could not be punished for same crime twice. Maggie lived to a ripe age.

Getting closer to the Castle

 1^st Tour is complete; I came at the last hour so I did not want to hop off the bus this time.

 Sir Walter Scott Monument is the largest monument to a writer in the world 

by East Princes Street Gardens.

 The Royal Scots Greys, memorial for those lost in Boer War 1899-1902.

 Second set of giant Olympic Rings at the Mound; placed to promote the London Olympics. This location was more suitable vs at the Edinburgh Castle- based on public opposition and votes.

 St. Giles Cathedral

 David Hume, the philosopher Statue; supposed to touch the feet for knowledge. Wish someone would have mentioned that before I walked by.

 Around the Royal Mile.

 Homage to film, Trainspotting. 
Would have been a perfect picture if no one was watching the game.
 

"This is how a proper castle should look"

-Bus Guide

I am back for bus tour part 2.

Do not let the sunshine and beautiful clouds fool you. 

I was quite cold but could not resist the top level view on the bus.

 On Royal Mile and quite a cultural stroll

 I have arrived!

Looking down from castle walls

I was informed that it was a daunting process for any Army to try to take the Castle-consider the angles and locations. Road around it was added during modern times. It used to be a volcanic cone and for 340 million years it has stood in Scotland-proper
Edinburgh means the fort on the hill.

 The Earl Haig Statue in honor of his service and being a co-founder of the British Legion.

 Through castle walls.

By the way, these red telephone booths were invented by Sir Gilles Scott.

Palace of Holyrood House

This is known as the Queen’s official residence in Scotland.

I heard it was being prepared for the Queen’s upcoming visit so I decided to check it.

This was a quick visit. At this point in traveling I had walked quite a bit and I felt that I needed a break and a nap. Also I was trying to watch my travel budget and did not think my money spent would be equal to the time I would actually go through the palace. However when the weather is warmer, I would like a chance to go beyond the gated area.

Throughout my walking tours, I always brought along my mp3 player. There is nothing more relaxing than taking a tour at your own pace and listening to your own music; this helped me created a “new” soundtrack and association from the playlist on my mp3 player. 

My curiosity has been met. This is what a UK mailbox looks like.

Due to its size, Edinburgh was very easy to navigate and streets are clearly labeled, which I appreciated.  In addition, it does help that Scotland has some tall landmarks as points of references, and at night it does help that it stays bright until 9pm.

 Because it stays light outside for such a longtime, I found it challenging to keep track of the proper time. For example I stepped out for dinner on my last day not thinking about how late restaurants stay open. I managed to find a restaurant and place an order in 20 minutes before the kitchen closed. Hence the shepherd's pie and salad-with potato halves and veggies below. 

After a good night's sleep, I woke up to rain on my last day. Not bad for a two day visit. Luckily in an accessible location: Queensferry Street, which made it easier to walk over to the airport shuttle. Less than 5 minutes and I was on board in a few minutes.

 I was feeling adventurous but with my large backpack I did not make it to the top floor.
Even though my trip has been short I am looking forward to next destination.

“Haste ye back” had not heard this phrase before.

 

Nothing like pouring rain to get you to rush on a plane especially when you need to board from the tarmac. This moment reminded me of how eager I was to transition to Cardiff.  It will be nice to land and see a familiar face.

 

Food Highlights:

 So not quite Scottish food. Came across a Spanish restaurant in Carlton area and decided to prep for Madrid. Chicken croquet, potatoes, green salad and tea at La Tasca.

I forgot to look for Shepherd’s Pie in Ireland, and decided to seek it 

out in Scotland instead. Very tasty.

I had to try it out especially when I was in a rush to get the bus tour. It was very convenient.

CARDIFF, Caerdydd

City capital and largest city of Wales

 Left one rainy city to join another except I had some lovely people waiting for me at the airport.  This entry will be shorter than the rest because I took the pleasure to enjoy just being in Cardiff. This was one point of the journey which I actually had no itinerary, also I started to come down with slight cold. I trusted my two quick days in the hand of my lovely hosts.

 With John and Clare; newly engaged friends, at Terranova.

 Nothing like a Welsh breakfast for dinner.

 Spiller and Baker’s apartment.

 Looking out the balcony.

 Steak salad and sangria for lunch.

 Cardiff Castle

Fun Fact: Dr. Who is taped in Cardiff Bay area.

Cardiff was a quaint, small town with what seemed as a variety of options for things to do. During my quick visit, I had wonderful host and established some new friendships in Wales. It's also not too far from London; approximately 3 hours…BONUS!

During my Cardiff we also established a running theme “when the weather is nice”, which means that I must make a return trip soon. Perhaps when the weather is a bit warmer and I can get a chance to explore the country side.  That would all depend on my "home weather" and the ability to transition during vacation time.

Leaving Cardiff via Birmingham, I am feeling the wear and tear from constant traveling including a slight cold/sinus issue. To the point that I opted to check in bag. I did not have the energy to move it around and also I had a short connection at the next airport.  Glad I made that choice because as I checked in, I had to undergo a random search via airport security; they had to unload every item from my purse and rescan everything. If I had to do that we my large backpack, I would have been concerned with potentially missing my flight to repack everything. Now I just had to count on my luggage meeting me in Madrid. 

The last time I traveled with KLM, it was from Uganda via Amsterdam to the States.

 Birmingham below

AMSTERDAM for a short lay over

 Somewhere in the North Sea

 Above Holland

 Amsterdam in sight

 As we approached the airport, I don't know whether people are welcoming their family or friends, watching departures or that’s a KLM museum above.

MADRID

Capital of Spain

Checked into my accommodations around midnight so I did not get a chance to take pictures first night. In addition was feeling under the weather and needed some cold meds. Following day I still did not feel a hundred percent but managed to get a good walk in before opting for a bus tour.

Good Morning Madrid

I took a walk down Gran Via, a main street also known as the “Spanish Broadway.” Not only was a amazed by the sites, it was also beautiful weather. Such warmth and it was really nice to walk down the street, a busy urban street. While I felt under the weather, my camera was very functional.

 Edificio Metrópolis

 Plaza de Cibeles

 Metro Banco de Espana

However, my decision to walk was cut short once I actually realized how hot it really, was I decided to hop on a bus. Let the tour begin.

I thought sitting on the top would be optimal for pictures and getting a breeze. I was right about one thing, the view was beautiful. The weather however was hotter than expected and I only lasted 16 stops of the 21 before moving downstairs and getting off close to the hotel in the Puerto Del Sol area.

The map of Madrid is more daunting than the actual distance between one point to another. Once I was able to figure out my navigation with the map, it was much easier to move around.

After a couple tapas, I took a siesta for about an hour and decided to walk around in search of dinner options. Best part it was still daylight outside and my navigation system was very flexible. I was looking for a low key restaurant which was not overcrowded with those watching the Euro 2012 game. I personally have been pulled into watching a few especially while I was in Ireland, but tonight I was looking for a different scene. Walked up and down a few streets below the Sol before settling with Taberna Alhambra on Calle Victoria around 9.

I underestimated what eggs, ham and potatoes were...in fact for the meal I thought it was tapas style. So my eyes were wide open when both were delivered. 

Needless to say, salad was demolished. I could not finish al the layers of french fries underneath the eggs and ham. 

 Later the waiter surprised me with apple liqour-san Miguel. Perhaps it was an aperitif. 

Because I was still under the weather, I ended the night early around 10pm and walked through Puerto del Sol. 

  

Around the city

I couldn’t come to Madrid without visiting a sibling campus.

 A few other colleges are in the vicinity.

One highlight to the campus’ location is its proximity to the Real Madrid Stadium on Calle Santiago Bernabeu; notice the neighboring restaurants.

 Too bad there was no game that day.

Back for bus tour, part 2; this time I went for a shady seat with a breeze.

By the way it is currently 35 degrees Celsius= 95 degrees. Taking a bus tour was the only way I could see the rest of the highlights in a short period. Also my pass was for 2 days and I had access on multiple routes. For future visits I would probably visit Madrid during non-summer seasons.

 Museo Del Prado; this is the first stop on the Madrid City Tours and 

best place to switch to another route.

 Lion King on Gran Via

 Plaza de Oriente-Once I arrived here, it was too hot to enjoy outdoors so I ran in for a late lunch special at Madrid des Tapas. 

Gazpacho Andaluz-cold soup, tomato, beans, garlic, Olive oil and pepper, etc.

Tenderloin pork with pineapple sauce. One of the most delicious meal on this trip. 

I did not realize that the lunch special included 3 course option with dessert. I chose lemon cake over coffee. It is too hot for that choice! I think at the restaurants, the staff must have thought I was a was a food critic or overly zealous tourist. After a hearty meal, it was time to continue the walk.

 Facing Plaza de Oriente

Palacio Real

I was told that I had to visit this palace and it was worth the stop. However, similarly to what happened in Edinburgh, I was too exhausted at that point. Also it was hot, and I was trying to save money. Next time I will be sure to explore beyond the gates and walk on the grounds. From what I could see, it would be worth the money.

Across from Palacio Real and in front of Catedral De La Almudena.

Madrid was an absolutely wonderful experience and I am glad I was able to get a glimpse of what the city had to offer. There is much more than what meets the eye and it’s on my list for future travels. Next time, I hope to know a few more phrases of Spanish. Since it was the only destination on my adventures where I was tested with foreign languages, I found myself in a couple conundrums, mostly because I found myself trying to respond in a variety of languages.  While I know a few Spanish salutations, I was stuck. Let me explain: When I was stuck and sought knew what I was being asked at a restaurant, store, taxi-I found myself responding (internally) with other words....Kale (ok -Luganda) shukran (thank you-Arabic) Sil vous plait (please in French), Laa (no-Arabic) .etc. Subconsciously I wanted to engage in a dialogue but my Spanish knowledge only expands to my days at working at Panchos, a Mexican Buffet in Texas. I definitely used to know more words than what I do now.  Next time.

 Now I am just elated to be one more step closer to being at home. What makes this better is knowing that I have a layover in London town! Not a fan of the window and wing seat-its restrictive on my taking pictures ability.

winning# no one in the seat next to me

 LONDON for a few hours

 Based on the significant change in weather, it is a sign I am close to London.

I arrived at Heathrow with the biggest smile on my face. Ideally I would want to step outside the airport, but a few hours will suffice. Now time to relax at Heathrow cut a bit short since it took approximately 30 -45minutes to commute between terminals.

 At least I was given ample time between flights so I did not have to work out a sweat. Upon checking in, I was informed that I have access to the business/first class lounge. Besides that, this lounge also provides spa and complimentary treatments. I took advantage of this option once I walked in. I chose a 15 min bamboo back support massage.  Very refreshing and what I needed after moving around the last few days.

Other perks in the lounge were free wifi, open bar to alcoholic/nonalcoholic drinks   and unbelievable options of ala carte or buffet. I snuck in a couple pictures. 

Originally I was surrounded by business men, and for a brief moment I felt a bit under dressed with sandals on. This changed once I saw a few travelers with their tennis shoes.

Having airline mileage points definitely pays off. All I had envisioned was enjoying a nice salad before boarding. Instead I got a fruit basket with multiple choices.

In order to determine when your flight departs, you can view the TV screens in the lounge. When it was time, I had a minor panic moment when I saw the sign telling travelers to report to their designated flight. I went to the bathroom and took out my contacts and switched to glasses then I was on my way out. 

However once I got to entrance of lounge they told me not to rush to boarding and that I had 15 more minutes to relax! They would announce the time for us to head out. What a relief. Here I was thinking I had missed the call because I was listening to my music.
After I got antsy again I tried for a second time. Not that they would not let me leave, they were just reminding me to take advantage of business boarding.  I was told the cue would be too long and wait for the call since everyone around me would be heading to gates at same time regardless of the destination. In that moment I chose to take the auto pilot route, and trust the system while I waited for the call. I guess worst scenario stay in London overnight...Just kidding.

Quickly as that idea entered my head it quickly disappeared when woman approached me to let us know it was time to board. As I left the lounge I also heard " Final Call" over the airport announcement. I got more excited when the staff took a one on one approach leading me via business/first class entrance and I thought an upgrade was in my immediate future...next time. The staff wanted to just make sure I found my seat. Besides its only 6hours technically I should be sleeping straight through :) and I have a good window seat without a wing in the way!

It is almost 9pm (London time) and its still daylight and I cannot wait for the movie selections and of course free food. Nonetheless I had a wonderful vacation with a mix of surprises along the way. Worth every moment and I hope to feel just as energized to start my second year in AD (within the next few weeks). I know it holds a multitude of surprises along the way.

Next time: Managing a full summer season and preparing for Ramadan in Abu Dhabi.