Three cities in two days is exhausting. The new experiences of train schedules, activities, inclementuyt weather, and hostels can take the energy right out of a person.
But you know all that you need? 'All you need is love!' Love for the Beatles, of course. Out of the three cities we visited, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Liverpool, and Manchester, Liverpool shines the brightest. Not only are the people friendly but it also provided me with great insight about media effects.
After a long Friday, our group really looked forward to a Beatles tour on Saturday. Unfortunately, we had no idea how many others shared our excitement; most of the tours were booked up until Saturday afternoon or even Sunday. Luckily, the lovely lady in the Liverpool tourism office saved us by suggesting a private, moderatley pricey taxi tour. As of yet, this is the best money I have spent. Our tour guide, Loll, took us to such places as Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, John Lennon and Paul McCartney's homes, and even the bar where Ringo Starr's mother used to tend.
Aside from the exciting tourist sites, Loll gave me great insight about the media effect of the Beatles on the economy of Liverpool. Prior to the Beatlemania, Liverpool's economy was seriously struggling due to the shutting down of large industry in the city. A lot of people were leaving the city, especially the richer residents, because of this drop in jobs. However, Beatlemania has transformed this formerly sleepy city into a booming metropolis for tourism and the arts. Not only do they boast being the Beatles's birthplace, Liverpool also won the "City of Culture: 2008" award with its Tate Gallery and performance art.
Who could have guessed four English boys with funny haircuts and a new sound would have such a huge impact?
1 comment:
I really want to visit Liverpool. Not only to see the old stomping grounds of the famous band, but, like you addressed in your post, to see how such a band transformed the town and essentially gave it a name.
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