This is the first entry in which I share my obsession with exploring the world and using Google Maps.
I just pick a random spot and walk the streets using Google Streetview. Pretty random and a little mundane but it feeds my urge to try to figure out this big world. Oftentimes I try to convince myself that I am significant. But when I realize that there are innumerable streets, with millions of people just living their lives it all seems so mundane and insignificant. But when I dig deeper, pause longer and strike up a conversation I always find something fascinating. Basically, every single place is fascinating in its own way. It is up to us to find out how.
Today I start this project with no expectations. I start it the same way that I begin looking at a random place on the map. The mundane is expected but the unexpected is relished. Then I will see what I find and how I can make a connection or learn something new.
First stop is Paso de los Toros, Uruguay. Check out this 12 minute video screencast of me going through the town for a bit. Then I share some of my favorite screenshots and observations below.
An early morning spring stroll. Kids are in school. Motorcycles abound yet there is an emptiness to the streets. Palm trees mixed with budding deciduous trees. A giant bull welcomes you to Paso de los Toros.
Quirkiest Shot
Here are some of my favorite screenshots:
Fun Fact
Rómulo Mangini created the tonic water Paso de los Toros on a bet that he couldn't make a tonic water as good as some of the imported British stuff.
He won the bet in 1929 and sales took off! He set up shop and even made the company public. Everyone in town had a share until Pepsi came and bought them up in 1955. Mangini died in 1957. (Source)