Second edit: The first part of this post is the original post and the first (humorous) edit. My answer lies with the (rest of) second edit at the end.
If the idea of alternating 1-square and 2-square steps is right, then i think the shortest path (23 steps) is as follows. [![enter image description here][1]][1]
Also, if walking on the quay is allowed then the shortest path (19 steps) is as follows. [![enter image description here][2]][2]
There is some back and forth, but i hope its clear, 1-square steps with red, 2-square with black.
Edit:
! Also the question "what will i be taking home" remains unanswered, unless it is 100 rep, or a headache, or something like that. [1]: https://i.sstatic.net/HaUY4.png [2]: https://i.sstatic.net/PnyWo.png
Also the question "what will i be taking home" remains unanswered, unless it is 100 rep, or a headache, or something like that.
Second edit:
Assuming that we have to be stepping on an allowed square, but can hop over others, AND that we have to alternate between 1 and 2 square steps, then the answer can be in 16 steps as follows,
In this case, that which i will be taking home is the stairs!