smorg

So I’ve been in Manchester for about 36 hours now, and have so far: had 3, no, wait, 5 pints of Guinness as God intended it (NOT from a bottle), a bottle of French Pinot Noir and had French style bangers and mash (freakin delicious). In fact, that’s ALL I’ve eaten since I’ve been here, come to think of it…although later I’m going to an authentic Olde Englishe Mongolian barbeque.
:)

I’ve also been exploring downtown and walked about 15 miles in total, which is the most I’ve walked in years I think. Nothing like bitter cold and confusion to propagate fitness! PS: English people are all slim…it’s creepy.

As Eddie Izzard said, ‘this is where the history comes from’, and damn if he isn’t right. The building are amazingly intricate and beautifully constructed. The depth of the detail is really stunning, and even the streets and alleys are works of art. The picture to the left is the view from my hotel room, hahaha. It’s an alcoholics paradise!

Everyone is very polite and very willing to help an ugly American. I’ve seen no instances of the ‘uptight’ Brit. In fact, I’ve found everyone so far to be incredibly charming and engaging. I’ve also found that dry wit I love so much…I think my sense of humor matches theirs quite well, and I like that a lot.

I also managed to find a Starbucks…actually, I would have to be blind to NOT have found one. After walking a few blocks from my hotel, I stopped for a quick one (3 pounds) and within half a mile saw half a dozen more. Everywhere I turn there is a damned Starbucks.
Yet at home I have to drive 30 miles for one. Arghh.

Anyway, took a bunch of pics of Manchester (and a few from the plane, haha) and they are here.

Will post more later in the week. Email me or comment to let me know you saw this!