California and Hawaii Chronicles: Day Three Extravaganza
Rise and Shine, and Snore?
Ah, the wonders of jet lag—up at the crack of dawn while my dear companion, Michele, embraces the art of slumber. But fear not, for her symphony of snores suggests a restful night, contrary to her claims of insomnia. The melodious sounds of sleep filled the room until the reasonable hour of 06:30, at which point we both decided it was officially morning.
Breakfast Chronicles: A Symphony of Flavors
Venturing downstairs at the fashionable hour of 07:30, we encountered a delightful couple from Portsmouth at the neighboring table. A splendid conversation ensued as Michele indulged in a concoction of eggs, mushrooms, and a single Scotch pancake. Meanwhile, I, ever the cereal aficionado, opted for a delightful duet of bagels.
Alcatraz Adventure: Masked and Unmasked
Our rendezvous with the Alcatraz tour beckoned, only to be interrupted by a bombshell revelation—we needed face masks (Covid pandemic rstrictions still in place). Panic not, dear readers, for the grand solution awaited: a mere $2.25 per mask. Ever the philanthropists, we gladly contributed to the American economy. The boat ride, albeit marred by a squadron of persistent flies, was otherwise a pleasant journey. Charlie (our ginger tom-cat), with his fondness for the winged nuisances, would have reveled in the experience.
Alcatraz Unveiled: Cells and Scenic Views
Upon Alcatraz‘s shores, basking in the warm sun and gentle breeze, we explored the penitentiary’s confines. The cells, Spartan and cramped, offered a glimpse into the lives of the incarcerated. Yet, amidst the starkness, breathtaking views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge unfolded. The vast expanse of the bay served as a stark reminder—no escapee had successfully swum to freedom.
Pier 39: Sea Lions and Pulled Pork Extravaganza
Returning to the mainland, lunchtime beckoned. A saunter through Pier 39, our ode to Blackpool, led us to a delectable pulled pork sandwich. The highlight, however, awaited us in the form of the raucous sea lions, jostling for prime sunbathing real estate with honks and shoves.
Trolley Triumph: Riding the Streets of San Francisco
Eager for more exploration, we embarked on a quest for the famed trolley buses and cable cars. A 20-minute wait paid off as we secured a coveted spot on the outside running plate for a mere $8 each. Winding through the streets, we marveled at the cityscape before a leisurely amble at Powell Street. Michele resisted the siren call of shopping, demonstrating impressive restraint.
Scoma Soiree: Seafood Delights and English Conversations
Refreshed after a quick return to the hotel, our evening culminated in a reservation at Scoma, chosen for its glowing TripAdvisor reviews. Crab cakes danced on my palate for starters, a culinary masterpiece, while Michele grappled with seafood mains. A linguistic rendezvous at the bar, albeit at the steep price of $9 per beer, rounded off our evening.
The Grand Finale: Seven Miles and Counting
After traversing the city by foot, covering a respectable seven miles, we retire to our abode. The adventures of the day, from the eerie confines of Alcatraz to the lively sea lions and the charm of San Francisco‘s streets, have left us both tired and content.
