“The world is there for us to see it in real life”… Husband and I wanted to see the ‘arty’ city and culture everyone was chattering about and I particularly wanted to be near Wales so that I can at least say I have seen a Wales castle. Sounds basic, but that is what we wanted.
Mainly you don’t really need a car in Bristol and parking and traffic could be a time ‘stealer’. However, we came from Wokingham and wanted to explore the city of Bristol as well as its’ countryside. Our hotel was stunningly located and walking distance from the city centre and we mainly wandered and explored the busy city streets by foot.
On the first evening (not knowing Bristol at all) we chose a restaurant that had good food ratings and unique vibes. Under the stars bar & Kitchen was a definite highlight that offered a quality pizza, a refreshing beer for husband and a very expensive glass of red wine for me. The best about this spot is the canal views, ambiance and atmosphere. After a few drinks we just walked and enjoyed the historical buildings, busy streets and the relaxed feel next to canal.
Controversial and modern street art is also known to be part of Bristol’s story; especially that of the very unconventional, but exquisite contributions of Banksy. Banksy is probably one of the most influential street artists in the world and his identity remains unknown after 20 years in the graffiti scene. Banksy’s artwork underwrote and added to a very unique culture that you will only find in his birthplace and hometown; Bristol. This photo was the first original Banksy artwork that we witnessed on our trip – Banksy’s Well Hung Lover 
Being adamant to see a genuine castle in Wales we decided to take the car the next day and traveled to Caerphilly, South Wales. One of my friends who studied in Cardiff for a year strongly suggested the Caerphilly Castle. I am beyond grateful for that suggestion as it was a perfect day-outing for two South Africans who desperately wanted to see a castle in Wales. It took us about an hour to travel to Caerphilly from Bristol and seeing the countryside on our way there was a superb bliss in itself. The town of Caerphilly was so enjoyable and quiet with beautiful landscapes and extremely friendly people. Still the heritage and history of the Caerphilly Castle was what we appreciated most. Enjoying a medieval view of a genuine castle with a welsh cider and a welsh cake was outstandingly idealistic.
The Caerphilly Castle is the second largest castle in Britain after Windsor and the largest castle in Wales. It was also the first “truly concentric castle” and the first castle that was ever protected behind two walls. It was and is a true “revolutionary masterpiece”.
After a beautiful day spent in Caerphilly we traveled back to Bristol as we had accommodation there and obviously wanted to see more of Bristol. The next thing we wanted to see was the Clifton Suspension Bridge. We went as close as we could get with the car and luckily managed to get street parking near enough. We crossed the bridge walking whilst taking our time and cherishing the moment. It was such a refreshing walk. I was mesmerized by the views and hubby was fascinated by the miraculous and historical construction work of the bridge. It was really something and an obvious must when you are in the area.
Visiting the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery presented plenty to see and much to learn, but our definite highlight was to experience the Rembrandt exhibition. We even have a modern-selfie with the genius of self-portraits.
Another very special showcase was Rembrandt’s “Abraham’s sacrifice” dry-point. I took this photo (above) of the etching myself as we were allowed to do so that day. “Abraham is a prominent figure in Christianity and is seen as an example of faith and obedience to God. Rembrandt chose the most dramatic episode from the life of Abraham for this etching. Three figures are crowded together at the centre of the composition. Abraham is poised, ready to kill by sword his son as he has been ordered by God, but an angel prevents this supreme sacrifice. The boy’s uncomprehending submission, Abraham’s anguish, and the compassionate intervention of the angel are all vividly conveyed in this small area.” – Presented by Heber Mardon, 1908 (Source – Bristol Museum and Art Gallery).
Bristol has so much to offer and just when you think you had enough you get the chance to enjoy the night life and the very cool and enchanting City Centre.
