I wonder what it was like to live here when these buildings were first built. How big were these trees? Were the streets filled with tourists like they are now? Were people kind to each other?
The last stone was put in place in the year 1898. To the left of this tree is the short-cut I take when walking through the grounds on my way downtown. It is one of those kinds of short-cuts that saves me only about 30 seconds, but helps me to avoid the crowded sidewalks.
Tourists used to fill the streets and the grounds around this building. Slowly, after pandemic lockdowns and travel restrictions have lifted, the tourists are finding their way back. Eight years ago the time it took me to walk from downtown home again doubled during the summer, as I would stop and wait for people to take photos in front of all the tourist attractions. They paid thousands of dollars to see these places while I walked past daily, almost ignoring the beauty. The second year I would walk around the photo-takers, hoping to not get in their way. The third year I tired of accommodating everyone, and just kept walking (mostly politely!) but no longer concerned that I might have photo-bombed any of their bragging rights.
I have enjoyed the relative peace and quiet of the past couple of years and I know it is selfish to wish for another reason for discouraging tourism. When I start to travel again, I will be mindful of how I interrupt the environment of the host city or country.
Reflections 