Hello! Welcome to my blog! I am Jose Rizal and if you don’t know me here is a little background about me. I grew up in Calamba Laguna on June 19, 1861 and I am the 7th among 11 siblings. My parents are Francisco Mercado and Teodora Alonso Realondo. Here is an exhibit of the recollection of the overseas experiences I had in the past years. HOPE YOU ENJOY!!
It was 1882, when I onboarded the “Salvadora” steam ship headed to Singapore. I was able to visit the beautiful botanical gardens, which gave me time to ponder on my life. In addition, I stopped by the Home of the American Consul, the people there were reliable and courteous. The places were delightful and clean as well.
Subsequently, I travelled to Barcelona, Spain. Initially, I was unimpressed because the city was ugly and the people were inhospitable. It somewhat reminded of the Spaniards back home. Thus, I soon began to love it because of the atmosphere of freedom and liberalism that was indistinct from the Philippines.
From Barcelona, I headed to Madrid to study medicine in Universidad Central de Madrid. Alongside, I also studied painting and sculpture at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando. While studying, I learned other languages and improved my fencing skills. What an experience!
The year after, I decided to go to Paris, France where I was astounded by the city’s charm. I reveled in the scenery and the gratifying boulevards. I visited the opera house, the Place de la Concorde, the Arch of Triumph, the Bois de Boulogne, the Madelaine Church, the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the Column of Vendome, and the Invalides. Moreover, I frequently visited museums, where I learned more in the history of France.
Afterwards, in 1887, I went to Rome, Italy. The beauty of ancient Rome was indescribable. Exploring Rome felt like my life was so peaceful.
I also visited the Vatican city. The primordial megalithic structures such as the St Petersburg were astounding.
Because of the threats against me, I left for Hong Kong onboard the “Zafiro” in 1888. While in Hong Kong, I studied the Chinese customs and language. Thankfully, I was able to practice my medicine during my stay.
While I was in Hong Kong, I decided to visit Macau for a few days. I was able to visit the Cathedral, casino, theater, and the botanical gardens. Macau was like an old gloomy place. Soon, I returned to Hong Kong.
In the same year, I journeyed across the world, and headed for the United States. Aside from San Francisco, I was able to visit Nevada, Oakland, Utah, Nebraska, Chicago, Niagara Falls, and New York. I was able to explore different scenic and historical places. I am impressed of how high the standards of living and progress were. However, I did not enjoy the racial prejudice, and I believe that it is inconsistent with the principles of the United States.
As you can see these are just the foregrounds of my entire travel experience. Aside from the countries mentioned above, I was fortunate to visit the following countries and places: Sri Lanka, Belgium, Egypt, London, Czech Republic, Austria, Bavaria, Japan, Switzerland, and many more. These countries have each taught me a unique lesson and I suggest that you should visit those countries someday. Lastly, this journey may have not been possible without the support of my family and most especially my brother Paciano.
As much as I would love to share more of my travels. That’s all for now.
Thank you for reading! 🙂
Rizal's Travelogue 