John Clayton: Signs of the Times

hen you go on vacation or, for that matter, take a trip anywhere, do you ever take photos of strange and unusual signs along the way? When I began my travel radio career back in early 1992 on KABC, one of the main considerations was what do I call my show? I decided that I'd share with my listeners offbeat and unusual things to see and do around the world - hence "John Clayton's Travel with A Difference." I've kept that title ever since, and my TBoy feature for this month highlights that offbeat activity as it relates to some of the weird and unusual signs and such, that I've seen around the world. As we're now getting into the holiday season good and proper, I hope that what I've got here might bring a smile to your face. And hey, maybe it might even spark an interest in you to photograph some of your favorite, unique signs along your route of travel. If you do, send me an email with YOUR photo to jdcradio@cox.net - Good Hunting, and Happy Travels!

What About Clothes?
It's probably my British sense of humor, but this sign - spotted near a historic ruin in England - got my attention. It made me wonder what a light with clothes on would be like! Oh well, I guess it's just the way Brits dispense such information!

Only In England!
Of all the signs I've ever seen, this is my favorite. On one hand I think it's super that the Brits care about Senior Citizens, but then I wonder if this is, in any way well, sort of discriminatory. It can be found all over the UK, and (obviously!) tells drivers to be careful when driving through this or that area. Then again, what does it say about older folks?

Where Is Mr. Spock When You Need Him?
I've never really believed in aliens and "Things From Outer Space," until I saw this sign in Leipzig, Germany. It is very near to the old Stasi (secret police HQ) which is a MUST SEE attraction in this wonderful, (previously) East German city. When, and if aliens do land, is this where they park their vehicles? Or what? All very strange.

Powerful Words!
I saw this, to me, wonderful sign in a tiny country railroad station in the West of England. It made me wonder how "wrecked" or unusable THIS British toilet might be. Again, it must be my offbeat British sense of humor, but I smiled even more when I noticed I could also get a different baby if I wanted to exchange it for a new model - if I had one. Or maybe the words DO make sense if you live in the UK.

It's Chinese To Me!
This may be hard to read, but it says "Stride Carefully," and you'll find it by the 3 Gorges Dam project in China. Obviously it means "Walk" carefully, but I love the way it is presented in English.

Does That Mean Elevator?
What a colorful language is that of Wales! But then again this made me wonder if you are an American and have never been to Europe, or have no idea what the word Lift means, what then? The whole thing would be Double Dutch! I saw this at a large Welsh Slate mine that is a fascinating tourist attraction.