Although my trip last week was dominated by work (and a persistent cold), I did get the chance to leave the hotel a couple of times and see some of the sights of the city. Here are some images of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, the two major attractions that I got a chance to take in. As you'll see, we lucked out with great weather for the most part.
Here is a view of Alcatraz from the Golden Gate parking area.
The Golden Gate Bridge is so incredible majestic.
Walking the bridge was quite an experience. The cars streaming by are incredibly loud and the bridge itself vibrates and bounces from the wind and the cars.
Seeing the top of the pillar was surreal. It seems so incredibly high and I can't imagine how the workings climb the riggings to paint the top.
Before we left the bridge, I wanted to take a picture of downtown from the center of the bridge. You can also see Alcatraz on your left.
The next night, we went on the Alcatraz night tour. It was a cold, rainy and blustery evening. In other words, it was the perfect conditions to travel to the most inhospitable prison in the US.
One of the first things that you see upon approaching the island is this sign, which is a remnant of the Native American occupation of the island from 1969-1971.
As soon as you enter the main prison facility, you immediately come across two rows of communal showers.
Then, you head upstairs to the cell block.
Alcatraz is such a study in contrasts. While the harsh prison conditions dominate your consciousness during the trip, you can't help but notice the impressive views of the city.
I took this picture to show you how small the window was for viewing visitors.
Oh and for a bit of the supernatural, my camera took this picture itself. No joke. I have no idea how the shutter button was pushed, but I review every picture after I take it and I have zero recollection of taking this one.
How's that for freaky?
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