Bangor

Bangor (pronounced ‘Bangah’ by the locals) has turned out to be a great base from which to explore northwest Wales. My hotel is across the street from the train and bus stations and Wales’ public transportation has served me well. I have gone a full day now without seeing a castle, but I’m trying not to be “castled out” by the time I get to Ireland. I’ve had so much to do that it has taken me until the fourth day to actually explore Bangor itself. This morning I went up the hill to where Bangor University is, and I did some laundry and read my book in a little cafe. I explored the campus a bit. Spent some time in the library with its beautiful reading room. From there I headed down to the pier. Bangor’s Garth Pier is the main attraction in town and they’re very proud of it. As they should be. It was recently renovated so they charge 50p (70c) to enter and they sell some souvenirs in the little shops from which all of the proceeds go to its upkeep. It’s a beautiful setting — at the entrance to the Menai Strait with the Isle of Anglesey appearing as if it’s well within reach. I met a woman who volunteered in one of the shops on the pier who was a retired high school teacher. She sat in the little shack on the pier greeting visitors and promoting locally made products. We agreed that it’s not the kids that makes you want to retire, and we laughed that we both had a soft spot for the quirky ones. She urged me to find something at home that is similar to what she has — a volunteer job in a beautiful place where people are happy and always appreciate your help. I spoke to Marianna about this and she said there might be a place in Princeton or at Washington’s Crossing where I could volunteer. She briefly mentioned a flag museum at The Crossing, and I think I may have found my new dream job. I’m sure people are happy there — what with all those flags.Read more