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 A true San Franciscan experience! That’s what we had today. The day began with a short cruise from Pier 33 to “The Rock” – Alcatraz Island. We reached the island for a short orientation from a park ranger and then we explored the many out-buildings of this place that once housed some of the worst criminals in America’s recent history. A maximum security prison from 1933 to 1963 this place is now a National Historic Park. It is also a bird sanctuary for many species due to the fact that there are no predators on the island. We observed many babies as we walked round. Once at the main building, we were able to get a head set for a self guided audio tour. Anne interpreted as she wore the headset.The students were amazed at the living conditions and the names of some of the famous prisoners that spent time at Alcatraz. The last ferry out was at 6:00pm so we made sure we had plenty of time to escape Alcatraz. This was not the case for several people who tried and failed. Most of which were either shot to death or killed by trying to swim across the San Francisco Bay! With its freezing temperatures and strong currents, the Bay was almost certain death. There were five men who did escape, though it is not certain if they actually made it to freedom.
Once escaped from Alcatraz, we walked Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. From my understanding, this area has changed a great deal in the past 20 or 30 years. Once noted for the fishing industry, it has now become more of a tourist attraction with restaurants and souvenir shops. Now late in the day, we found a wonderful seafood restaurant, Fog Harbor to have our dinner. We had a wonderful dining experience with fresh San Francisco Sourdough bread and enlightening conversations. The students continue to amaze me! What a wonderful group of young people! I count it a privilege to escort them into new learning experiences in their lives!
 Full and satisfied from dinner, we continued our walk of Fisherman’s Wharf in search of the famous chocolatiers of Ghirardelli’s. We could smell the chocolate coming from the gift shop as we passed the door. We bought chocolates for our loved ones only after we tasted the wonder of Ghirardelli’s Ice Cream Shop! DELICIOUS!
 With the necessity of ‘working off’ our dinner and dessert, we climbed the hills of San Francisco once again to find the famous Lombard Street. Completely exhausted, we found our destination and stood in awe as we watched cars navigate the steep hill with its sharp twists and turns. Meticulously tended gardens were interspersed between the curves of the road. Beautiful homes lined the street as well. We walked the stairways along the sides of the street to the bottom and took some keepsake photos.
Our final goal for the day was to enjoy a Cable Car ride across town to our BART station before heading back to the dorm. This was great! So many times I have seen the Cable Cars on television and on film and now I was actually on one myself!
Today was the epitome of San Francisco! I do believe we have walked the entire city. Believe me, the events of the past few days has reminded me that I am not 20 years old anymore. |
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