Sunday, April 13, 2008

“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

Monday, February 11, 2008

“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