“It's time for a road trip...to Athens”

“Road Trip To Athens - Better Than Ezra”

Having finally recovered from my escapades in Bordeaux, I find myself in the glorious city of Athens. More specifically the Acropolis of Athens.

As unexpected as it might seem I am somewhat of a fan of the Classical era (and no I’m not talking about Vivaldi’s Four Seasons). So to be stood gazing up at the Parthenon, in complete awe of its grandeur and imposing nature, I must admit I felt a slight tingle go down my spine. It was truly one of those light bulb over the top of your head moments, when for a split second you realize just how small you are, yet what great things humanity could achieve.

The Parthenon was built as a nod to the past, to what Athens had achieved, but also as a way of looking forward to the future. We see this from the combination of two different architectural styles (believe me if I could, I would go on to talk about just how brilliantly and purposefully this was done – however I fear your mouse is creeping towards the red cross in the top right of your screen already. If you haven’t quite reached that state of boredom yet then I offer you my sincerest thanks and congratulations). Indeed it was also there to show off Athens’ wealth and skills (of which both were plentiful), but more importantly to this day it is still inspiring thousands to be better.

Xander XBods.

Sponsored by Xactium Limited - www.xactium.com

“Love sent from Bordeaux”

“Bordeaux – Durutti Column”

According to this pamphlet I picked up, Bordeaux is classified as a ‘City of Art and History’ and has - according to the ever reliable source that is Wikipedia - been described as "an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble".

Now as fascinating as all of that is, I find it very difficult to concentrate on anything that is even going to vaguely enhance my cultural knowledge when I’m faced with so many different wines.

Now I do not claim to be a connoisseur of fine wine, far from it. However when a man sporting a beret and moustache is practically forcing glasses of the stuff into your hands, it’d be quite frankly rude to say no. I also found that after trying several different wines, I did become an expert on the matter, declaring rather loudly what an ‘excellent year’ this was and how wonderfully ‘full bodied’ that was.

I’m going to regret this whole experience in the morning I’m sure…

Write soon(er than last time).

Xander XBods.

Sponsored by Xactium Limited - www.xactium.com

"I'm in Pittsburgh (And it's Raining)"

"I'm in Pittsburgh (And it's Raining) – The Outcasts"

Hello there! Sorry it’s been so long. Places to be, people to see. You know how it gets.

Pursuing my dream of fame, I decided that Pittsburgh would be a good place to head off to. You might not be aware but it’s been the location of more than 125 films and a whole host of TV shows. It didn’t do much for my nerves though. I had to keep turning round, I kept expecting Anthony Hopkins to appear over my shoulder and beckon me to come closer. A scary thought I think you’ll agree.

Luckily this didn’t happen. Nor was I asked to star in a reprise of ‘Flashdance’. Nor did Mulder and Scully put a guest appearance in. Clearly I’d picked a quiet day.

None the less I did stumble across this place:

Named ‘Heinz Hall’. The name amused me. How could I resist?

More soon.
Xander XBods.

The Beginning

This is England
This knife of Sheffield steel
This is England
This is how we feel.
“This is England – The Clash”

So here I am in Sheffield ready to set off on my travels! That’s me there! On that picture! Running to catch the train! I’ve been commissioned to go just about anywhere around the world. Michael Palin eat your heart out! Who knows where I’ll wind up! And quite frankly who cares. I’m famous! Soon my name will be known far and wide! Oh I can see it now! Young, adoring fans will be queuing up for my autograph; I’ll be walking down the red carpet, magazines will be begging for the rights to photograph my wedding to the stunning French XBods I’m simply destined to meet.

And to think, all of that is going to happen just because of Sheffield. Surprising just how much that city can do for you…

Write soon.
Xander XBods.

Sponsored by Xactium Limited - www.xactium.com