October 10, 2024

Our first port we can actually visit! Getxo, Spain

Went for a stretch of the legs into Portugalete & Getxo, the towns closest to the port, with fellow resident Stephen Clarke. Next thing I knew, we had walked 20,000 steps!  Below is Puente de Vizcaya, the world's oldest transporter bridge. Six million people use it to cross the estuary every year. A UNESCO World Heritage site, designed by Alberto de Palacio and opened in 1893. It was a revolutionary work of engineering allowing boats to cross under gondola at the same time on the river Nervion between the towns of Getxo and Portugalete. Very cool! Takes longer to buy a ticket and walk on, then it does to cross.

The town of Portugalete is one steep hill after another. We found they even have an outdoor escalator built into the sidewalk of one of the longest hills, sadly after we had already hoofed our way up! I was feeling all 20,000 steps that night and into the next day! 

By Pat Patrick May 6, 2026
Today we are in the second largest city in all of Indonesia, Surabaya. The Port is huge and busy, as there are tons of freightors and ferries here. We had a warm welcome when we pulled in yesterday evening.
By Pat Patrick May 4, 2026
More FUN with the Elephants ! Washing this gentle creature was so special. The handlers at the Sanctuary are so informative and caring and took sooo many pictures for us!
By Pat Patrick May 3, 2026
MASON'S ELEPHANT SANTUARY was a little slice of Heaven! in crazy, congested Bali ! I really wanted to treat the Spa Manager Stacy and our Entertainment Manager Kelly, to a fun, non-stressful event that they could truly enjoy! Stacy had never seen elephants before and her squeal of delight, when we first laid eyes on them was pure joy!