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City of Barcelona- Small Group - 9 July 2024

As a world traveler, I was fortunate to embark on a journey through Barcelona's iconic landmarks in the company of an intimate group, cruising comfortably aboard a motor coach.

The adventure began with a leisurely drive through the old Gothic Quarter, where the ancient stones whispered tales of centuries past, setting the stage for the wonders that awaited.

Our knowledgeable guide led us on a captivating tour of the city, offering insights into Barcelona's rich history and vibrant culture.

We marveled at the majestic 13th-century La Seu cathedral in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, its spires reaching skyward in a testament to Gothic grandeur.

But it was the sight of Antoni Gaudi's masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia basilica, that truly took my breath away.

The soaring Gothic spires and intricate facades of this Roman Catholic basilica stood as a testament to Gaudi's genius, a harmonious blend of art, architecture, and spirituality that transcended time and space.

Ascending Montjuic Hill, we arrived at the Mirador del Alcalde gardens, where panoramic vistas of Barcelona unfolded before us in all their splendor.

The city sprawled below, a tapestry of colors and shapes, while the Mediterranean Sea shimmered in the distance, a beacon of serenity amidst the urban bustle.

Our journey continued with scenic photo stops at the Olympic Ring complex on Montjuïc Hill, where we savored breathtaking views of the city and soaked in the legacy of the 1992 Olympic Games.

Each snapshot captured a moment in time, a memory to treasure and revisit long after our tour had come to an end.

From the exquisite beauty of the Sagrada Familia to the historic charm of the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona's landmarks left an indelible mark on my soul.

The city's vibrant spirit, artistic legacy, and scenic wonders combined to create a tapestry of experiences that will forever hold a special place in my heart.

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Osaka Castle & Dotonbori

I constantly in search of the perfect blend of history and modern vibrancy in my adventures, my trip to Osaka, Japan, offered an unparalleled experience that I'm eager to share. This journey took me on a fascinating exploration of two distinct sides of Osaka: the historical majesty of Osaka Castle and the pulsating modern energy of Dotonbori street.

My adventure began with a step back into the late 1500s, walking in the footsteps of the legendary Toyotomi Hideyoshi within the imposing stone walls of Osaka Castle.

Surrounded by the serene beauty of its gardens, under the gentle shade of cherry trees, I delved into the rich history of Japan before its unification.

I was captivated by tales of resilience, learning how the castle withstood numerous fires and air raids over the centuries.

The artifacts from the period, preserved with care, spoke volumes of the castle's storied past, making history come alive before my eyes.

Transitioning from the historical to the hustle and bustle of contemporary Japan, I found myself enveloped in the neon-lit spectacle of Dotonbori, Osaka's heartbeat.

Standing by the Dotonbori Canal, I was mesmerized by the enormous billboards that seemed to compete for attention, each more colorful and animated than the last.

This lively entertainment district, known for its vibrant nightlife, was bustling with energy, and I was thrilled to dive into it.

Gifted with 90 minutes of free time, I embarked on a culinary adventure, sampling the local gastronomy that Osaka is famed for.

From the daring pufferfish to the comforting warmth of sukiyaki and the irresistible crunch of kushikatsu, each dish was a discovery in itself.

Wandering around the moat, tower, and meticulously maintained gardens of Osaka Castle, I felt connected to the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the pivotal moments in Japan's history that unfolded within these walls.

Meanwhile, getting lost among Dotonbori's neon-colored billboards, eclectic souvenir shops, and cocktail bars was a delightful contrast, showcasing the city's modern allure.

My journey through Osaka allowed me to indulge in the city's street food in true "kuidaore" style, which literally means to eat oneself into ruin.

Yum yum

This phrase perfectly encapsulated my experience as I savored each bite, from the street vendors to the hidden gems of Dotonbori.

In Osaka, I discovered a city where the past and present coexist in harmony, each lending depth and flavor to the other. From the historic grandeur of Osaka Castle to the electrifying streets of Dotonbori, my journey was a testament to the city's dynamic spirit, leaving me with memories to cherish and stories to tell.

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Blog Updates

Here is my latest Joseph F. Thompson Blog Post of my latest World Travels from to Brisbane, Australia to Hong Kong, China.

Here is an update on my adventures in Indonesia, 19-20 March 24

My next blog post will be on 29 March 2024 as I update my cruise adventures to Philippines and Hong Kong.

Please read, comment,and subscribe:

https://www.josephfthompsonstudios.com/post/world-travels-2023-2024-11-march-24-brisbane-australia-to-27-march-24-hong-kong-china-leg

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Lombok, Indonesia

The vibrant culture of Lombok is revealed today on my exploration of Mataram, where I will visit a large Hindu temple complex, shop for freshwater pearls farmed in Lombok, wander the bustling local art market, and then spend some time in the museum for the West Nusa Tenggara Province.

My Mataram city tour starts with a visit to Lingsar, a large temple complex built in 1714 and the most important temple on the island for the Balinese and the local Sasak people, who adhere to the Islam Wetu Telu. I remember this is a sacred sight and I wore appropriate clothing.

I will stop to view the fountain in the temple grounds that contains fish that are believed to appear only when a person’s wish is going to be granted. Will this be my lucky day.

Looking forward to find out why Lombok is renowned for its pearls, as I visit the pearl shops in the center of Mataram, where you can browse excellent-quality pears at bargain prices.

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Dinner with my old friend, Janice. (at The Greene Turtle) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpdru_RuJXA/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Having dinner and movie with my best friend Ken. (at TGI Fridays) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpbMtw9upnv/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Same restaurant I visited at Cape Canaveral back in March 15. Wow that was seven years ago. Time flies. YOLO! (at Rusty's Seafood & Oyster Bar) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl60jMCO9BD/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Best barbershop in Fairfax county (at Fairfax County, Virginia) https://www.instagram.com/p/ClzQe-TSkKb/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Ethiopian food in Washington DC (at Washington D.C.) https://www.instagram.com/p/ClkFu7Ku5E6/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Senior citizens vote. I 100% support democracy. (at Fairfax County Govt. Center) https://www.instagram.com/p/CkGXsOeOIH8/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Ellie, is so happy to go home after this awesome cruise!!! (at PORT OF GALVESTON) https://www.instagram.com/p/CjxknJNO9sH/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Having a cold one. (at Chankanab en Cozumel,Q.Roo México) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cjsv71yuKhd/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Perfect day!!! https://www.instagram.com/p/CjrGFE-DQ-o/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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Living Large (at Mahahual Costa Maya Mexico) https://www.instagram.com/p/CjqKLXrrabM/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=