Touring Barcelona
Barcelona is the largest city in the Catalonia region of Spain. With a population of 1.6 million people within its city limits, this is easily the largest metropolis on the Mediterranean Sea. When Rebecca and I arrived in late June, the weather was extremely warm and pleasant. Donned in comfortable sneakers, tanktops, and sneakers, we put down some serious miles during our two-day walking tour of these historic streets.
The Columbus monument, built in 1888 for the World Exposition, honors Christopher Columbus’ first voyage to the Americas.
This monument was the first landmark we encountered as we left the Barcelona Port and entered into the city. This iconic symbol commemmorates the historical voyages of Christopher Columbus who reported his findings to Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand V in Barcelona, Spain after his first trip to the newly discovered continent. (more…)
Posted in Adventurous Places, Europe and tagged Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain by Big John with 2 comments.
A Rocky Mountain Road Trip through the Centennial State
In mid-November, I had the pleasure of attending a work-related conference in Aurora, Colorado. After the forum ended, Rebecca and I procured a rental car and embarked on a Rocky Mountain road trip through the majestic Centennial State. Our trip would hold no particular destination point. We embraced a level of spontaneity, stopping along the way to see various points of interest, and simply enjoy each other’s company enveloped in the spirit of adventure. Our only objective was to take in some of God’s beautiful scenery and possibly catch a snowflake or two. We had a wonderful time of it all and brought back these photographic memories to share with all of you.
The skyline of the Mile High City against a majestic backdrop.
Denver, being the gateway to the Rockies, was our first stopping point along the way. As seen in the picture above, (admittingly the only picture that I did not take), the Mile High City offers a panoramic view of the mountains that spans 140 miles long. Denver has the tenth largest downtown in the entire nation and is considered one of the most walkable downtowns in all of America. With all the hype, we put on our comfortable sneakers and set out to paint the town red. (more…)
Posted in Adventurous Places, Great Dining, North America and tagged Centennial State, Colorado, Denver, Rocky Mountains by Big John with 7 comments.
Two Days in Venice – Italy’s Famous City of Canals
In the Veneto Region of Italy, partially submerged in the murky waters of the Adriatic sea, rests one of the most romantic and renowned places in all of Europe – Venice. The heart of this Venetian lagoon has no roads above water and, outside of its raised walking paths, its winding canals can be traversed only by boat. The area of Venice is actually a group of intriguing islands, where art and history are said to come alive. Combined with old trades and the beauty of the sea, this priceless treasure is a must-see World Heritage (UNESCO) site.
The hotel Villa Barbarich in Venice
It wasn’t just any old occasion that brought us to Venice, it was the final leg of our fabulous honeymoon. Considering that, I did a lot of research before choosing the hotel for our Venetian getaway. Just 15 minutes from Venice, the Villa Barbarich was an amazing resort . The hotel, featuring all sorts of great amenities, is actually a renovated 16th century villa. For anybody who appreciates history with elegance, this place is certain to please!
The quickest way to get around Venice is always by watercraft.
If you’ve never had the privilege of visiting this lovely floating city, keep on scrolling down. Big John will take you on a tour through my vivid collection of photos. This ride is a whole lot cheaper than one of the pricey gondolas; although, if given the option, I seriously recommend you see it by boat. (more…)
Posted in Adventurous Places, Europe and tagged Italy, Venice by Big John with 1 comment.
When In Rome, Do As The Romans Do
They say that when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Having never been in Rome before, I wasn’t quite sure what it is that they do. It only took me about 5 minutes after arriving in the city to tell you what it is that Romans don’t do. Romans don’t use turn signals, they don’t yield to oncoming traffic, and they definitely don’t get stuck in a “bus/taxi only” lane while driving aimlessly around the same circle for over an hour – that last one is what I do!
Well, after all of that senseless nonsense, I hope Romans “do” a lot of walking. I threw away my international drivers license, triple-parked the Alfa Romeo I rented, and Rebecca and I explored the entire city on foot. Despite it all, we actually had an amazing time and took plenty of pictures along the way. I hope you like our photographic journey through Rome.
I believe this lady needs a tour guide. Too bad she’s stuck with me! (more…)
Posted in Adventurous Places, Europe, Historical Journeys and tagged Italy, Rome by Big John with no comments yet.
Rebecca and the Not-So-Nice Pirates of Nice, France
Only a few of my closest friends and family know the story of how I met my lovely wife, Rebecca. Yet, even to this day, the circumstances surrounding the event are a source of both anxiety and great joy for me. My state-appointed therapist suggested that I attempt to express myself more openly and stop bottling so many things inside. So, if I ever hope to be freed from this padded cell that confines me, I need to start doing more of what my therapist says.
It all began here. No, not here at the Palmetto State Mental Hospital for the Criminally Insane. It all began 3 kilometers west of Nice, in the picturesque seaside community of Villefranche-sur-Mer. The amazing landscape of this charming fishing village has inspired many artists throughout the years to apply their paints to canvas. Set against a peaceful waterfront with colorful houses, open markets, and cobblestone streets, this is just the sort of place a fellow might want to unpack his suitcase and stay awhile. Having arrived there by cruise ship, I had only the luxury of staying in town for a single day. Considering my limited time, I vowed to make the most out of my brief visit to this French coastal paradise.
The Bay of Villefranche-sur Mer
All just seemed so perfect that morning I stepped off the dock and set foot into town. The weather was warm but not stifling hot. The salty air had a pleasant breeze, albeit far from windy. All in all, things were very nice here. I arrived in town just after breakfast so I could get an early start on things. It was my first time in the French Riviera, and I intended on exploring every nook and cranny of this place before calling it a day.  (more…)
Posted in Europe, Tall Tales and Big Fish Stories and tagged France, Nice, pirates, Villefranche-sur-Mer by Big John with no comments yet.