In May of 2023, to celebrate my fortieth year and also my parents' anniversary, we travelled to England, Wales, and Ireland. This is the final segment of our trip.
Maps are all well and good, but they're no substitute for strolling around to get a feel for a place. I was surprised to round a corner and see a checkered churchtower.
I was also surprised by the savannah-style trees lining Reading's pedestrian zone. The tropical bent to the foliage throughout England, Wales, and Ireland was a recurring point of surprise among our little touring party.
For our final night in the British Isles, we enjoyed the hospitality of a swanky hotel in the heart of Reading, 1843. The building was opened in its named year by Charles Dickens, as a 'Literary, scientific, and mechanics institute'. We even went for a nightcap at its stylish bar, Calico.
Before we hit the bar, we ate out at a local dining spot. It was a bit more humble than the glitzy hotel, but a nice chance to see what the city is like for its residents. As we ate our meal, we reflected back on what an incredible journey we'd had together. I was reminded of a sign I'd seen at a hotel we walked by in Ireland, "Come as guests, leave as friends". For the people we met everywhere from Wrexham to Wexford, from Uttoxeter to Goodwick, and from Hitchin to Burry Port, it certainly seems true.
