Arman

DSC_8370About the Location:  The Philippines holds a special place in my heart.  The people, with their remarkable kindness and hospitality, are my favorite thing about the 7,640-island nation.  Here we were on our way to the trailhead leading to Mt. Pinatubo, an active volcano whose latest eruption in 1991 caused significant damage in this area, north of Manila. Continue reading “Arman”

Mont Saint Michel

DSC_0858About the Location:  On a rocky island 1km off of the northern French coast sits a small village (current population: 50) that has been primarily a monastery (dating back to the 700’s), but has also served as a prison and a strategic outpost for military defense. At high tide, the ocean surrounds the island making it inaccessible to would-be invaders back in the time it was first inhabited. Today there is a bridge and frequent buses that shuttle in 3 million people per year. Despite the tourists and modern commercialization, Mont Saint Michel lived up to the hype, so definitely go and visit if you are headed to Normandy. Continue reading “Mont Saint Michel”

Be Different

DSC_4653About the Location:  Lebanon, and specifically Beirut, has had a tough half-century, and this past year has seen a series of calamities from civil unrest to political change to a financial crisis to massive unemployment and now to this. Of all the places I’ve visited around the world, Beirut is high on the list of favorites – the people, the food, and the history are all unforgettable. Continue reading “Be Different”

Peace Be With You II

DSCF0914About the Location:  Kathmandu, Nepal is a wonderful place to explore by foot if you are up for an adventure.  There is a lot going on all of the time.  On this day, I visited a temple that was performing final rights including funeral pyres for those that are passing from this world. Cremation is considered by Hindus to be the most auspicious way to release the soul from the body. Continue reading “Peace Be With You II”

Lagen Island

DSC_7970About the Location:  The Philippines is a nation comprising 7,640 islands.  It is a remarkable place with too many places to explore in one lifetime.  With villas set within a protected cove and in front of a stunning backdrop on just one small island, there are endless opportunities to watch the sun rise or to watch the stars rotate through the night skies. Continue reading “Lagen Island”

Tokyo Timewarp

DSC_3845About the Location:  “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”  For the first time visitor, Tokyo can be overwhelming.  And rightly so!  The pace, the lights, the alleys, the people, the food…it is endless.  If I’ve ever made an image that truly captures the essence of a place, it is this. Continue reading “Tokyo Timewarp”