It’s always a joy when public transport is so easy to use. Google Maps plots the route, tap n go pays the way. Bus shows up on time. Busy too: people going to work dressed to impress or can’t be arsed; tourists. A kind old lady asked someone to move so I could sit down. Been rude not to, though I am starting to get a complex.
A grand mass of apartments surrounds the old centre. After a flood in 1957 when 81 people died, they diverted the river. The initial proposals was to build a highway. Due to a public campaign it became an urban park, full of life and art.
Started thinking: today we think of a public campaign as something on-line, petitions, angry fb posts etc. In the 60s? Meetings, letters to the editors, public meetings? Was it more civilised? Or is it an example of early influencers influencing?
The old market is full of colour, character and people shopping. Queues at the fish counters. A convent converted to a cultural centre. A manequin store – they are used at a religious festival. Looked pagan to me.
The Arts and Science buildings show what can be done tastefully with adventure in modern architecture. Scale meets ambition. Fantastic.
Tomorrow head out to brave the psychopaths on the cycle paths. Wish us luck…..
Travelling reflections 