Around the Arabian Gulf

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is the last set of pictures from my Arabian adventure. </span><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_CZefsBu0mVIx1tZd2qfOQze9rQMJ6XE0Zfad24uQ4ydKFz-7_5pfahiZJpzp_oACUAEV04fRpEf8TdwMZsPmY5qfY1rxVNrOIxVDJP1Tszgf-rhmJhudvT82-rweRVUWS4PHECjfxmP/s1600/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_CZefsBu0mVIx1tZd2qfOQze9rQMJ6XE0Zfad24uQ4ydKFz-7_5pfahiZJpzp_oACUAEV04fRpEf8TdwMZsPmY5qfY1rxVNrOIxVDJP1Tszgf-rhmJhudvT82-rweRVUWS4PHECjfxmP/s640/0.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">One of my stops on the Persian Gulf cruise was Muscat, in the Sultanate of Oman. I didn't know much about the country before I got there, and found it to be a bustling, very affluent city, where old meets new, culture collides with modern every-day living & the price of gas is just $0.31 / €0.29 per liter. So if you ever need to stock up on fuel, this is the place to go.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnwVostfEIww60rUUh_UGcgJwYN7I8sxQiIgqcfRyuquWci5RHs7LfIdZBB58q4XjYSFfrMnkXJNi2YnvxiGiKLEUXMeZXm2z3O9P8ZRVziu93MW1kV4ZGHVckO9z3-w5tm2_SjZNc9bn/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnwVostfEIww60rUUh_UGcgJwYN7I8sxQiIgqcfRyuquWci5RHs7LfIdZBB58q4XjYSFfrMnkXJNi2YnvxiGiKLEUXMeZXm2z3O9P8ZRVziu93MW1kV4ZGHVckO9z3-w5tm2_SjZNc9bn/s640/1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lofty arches, strong geometric lines, arcaded colonnades and artful curvature are an integral part of Arabic architecture. This is a view of the Sultan Qaboos courtyard in Muscat, Oman.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAY0sjsYWJYLTH_tgBVkhUB_jZrratG2JizLfJrY1I5UJClQZtGIc3YNvsCywQr9kChw36VwDs5gs9uy_QOrqZav5BnT-Z49Xx5YHLcnkMZ2nwZauzeWNyl_97WROuHWE39w9fUy0lbp8Y/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAY0sjsYWJYLTH_tgBVkhUB_jZrratG2JizLfJrY1I5UJClQZtGIc3YNvsCywQr9kChw36VwDs5gs9uy_QOrqZav5BnT-Z49Xx5YHLcnkMZ2nwZauzeWNyl_97WROuHWE39w9fUy0lbp8Y/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A scene from an Omani Souq (or market place), where you can buy ethnic handmade crafts, traditional clothes, including the famous 'kummah' hat that is native to this region, as well as exotic glass mosaic and brass lamps to colorfully light up your home. (Although I don't know how you would get that through the airport all in one piece).</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpiH-_qq9fSjmz-1W56pz8kENvoUQZ1qepQDBl58kxf_9hCWSGYU_Rm8bQjS-mSg880-bnXLwOOVx1mmjG7GBxp2QVAaLODZHi_le8ioW7fq3KunJChsikkmhVIZoM3yLKbJLeuo2r_f3/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpiH-_qq9fSjmz-1W56pz8kENvoUQZ1qepQDBl58kxf_9hCWSGYU_Rm8bQjS-mSg880-bnXLwOOVx1mmjG7GBxp2QVAaLODZHi_le8ioW7fq3KunJChsikkmhVIZoM3yLKbJLeuo2r_f3/s640/3.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Sultan of Oman reigns and hosts royal functions from the grand <i>Al Alam Palace.</i></span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nzhUVwmORU9ymucICV-1zhJkKPiHoI6hVdMBHN2RC2GzcToimtGZd8Yu_Fvn9JdhUkpgczbsgkhlMiUmUmYvCXjeDtT_WnMYHmilO-penVDQ-ZiJjCdq4BhzCDaDHZAMqyL8hBFdAWYR/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8nzhUVwmORU9ymucICV-1zhJkKPiHoI6hVdMBHN2RC2GzcToimtGZd8Yu_Fvn9JdhUkpgczbsgkhlMiUmUmYvCXjeDtT_WnMYHmilO-penVDQ-ZiJjCdq4BhzCDaDHZAMqyL8hBFdAWYR/s640/4.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Our next stop was Abu Dhabi, where the glorious <i>Sheikh Zayed Mosque</i> is one of the most prominent landmarks. It features 82 domes, Moroccan and Andalusian artwork, hand-knotted wool carpets and can accommodate up to 40 000 people. This is a perfect example of the decorative architectural style of the Middle East.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8aTJaKtrHYPiyUWm0G7D9TbUqLLJAF_wCSNOaSCgnxngay_zNfBEwMtu_tKX1XswdzteccOb6JoABxG-i2Vk3JGn3EsO3HzDF47ToXH4ynHqYzPj96m1N22-SMXrtv3k_r5LxzSO2CeA/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT8aTJaKtrHYPiyUWm0G7D9TbUqLLJAF_wCSNOaSCgnxngay_zNfBEwMtu_tKX1XswdzteccOb6JoABxG-i2Vk3JGn3EsO3HzDF47ToXH4ynHqYzPj96m1N22-SMXrtv3k_r5LxzSO2CeA/s640/5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I had never seen chandeliers quite extravagant as this one before. Pictured above is one of seven sources of illumination in the mosque. Made in Germany from thousands of Swarovski crystals, this ornamented piece of art weighs about 2 tons.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS1OtVzjWwgbv5llF9Ha-iMYeFqqjA7aMX7dljPHSzvZQPDGvLeWInzabNgvPyTpCzf3Rmq29INjlNS-NOYCmN58pKBiM9n-a3CSnfxQf0dNqVBBCste-UXf5LbtZdH0BUf8IOoGbynEBn/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS1OtVzjWwgbv5llF9Ha-iMYeFqqjA7aMX7dljPHSzvZQPDGvLeWInzabNgvPyTpCzf3Rmq29INjlNS-NOYCmN58pKBiM9n-a3CSnfxQf0dNqVBBCste-UXf5LbtZdH0BUf8IOoGbynEBn/s640/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sivec marble was brought in from Greece to construct the incandescent white crowned columns, arches, floors and walls, which are embellished by colourful floral designs.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtHk0O-rey3DydGtUZtexkzbx6YkFL2jSgfOetkuYcE6JSA2eQd919SvWZVtTKD4dqpS5uOjlSzJ8H5G7PLeADe4OqMhjQ8FkuLjzB4UvPT8UOWu1UFJzOOS2ldoIDjKKzodSMEns5tww/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtHk0O-rey3DydGtUZtexkzbx6YkFL2jSgfOetkuYcE6JSA2eQd919SvWZVtTKD4dqpS5uOjlSzJ8H5G7PLeADe4OqMhjQ8FkuLjzB4UvPT8UOWu1UFJzOOS2ldoIDjKKzodSMEns5tww/s640/7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Calling all Italian car fanatics...<i>Ferrari World</i> is the first of it's kind and the world's largest indoor theme park. It also boasts the world's fastest roller coaster - <i>the Formula Rossa, </i>which reaches a speed of 250km/h (149mph). If you're not an adrenaline junkie (like me), you can stroll through the automative history of this spectacular car brand in the Galleria.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks for sticking around through my journey around the Arabian Gulf. If you love high end shopping, fancy cars, sunny weather, vintage markets, luxurious resorts & magnificent architecture, look no further than the United Arab Emirates. With unlimited funds, and if you can brave the 45 °C desert heat, it <i>can</i> be as glamourous as Carrie Bradshaw made it out to be in <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1261945">SATC 2</a>. Now if only I could have the wardrobe included in this stylish scene...</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOjpGFNfDKSdeK_5w0WTIVD018IcGbGq3XskQldSPJOoODoqP7fK1qWuPfgQIbtx4bdEIIiNxll7AcExARVV7KyX61DeXam1aTrMEHT37VHx2vOLe8bORgKnEWPRm7yQEiBeKPg-nCI_7/s1600/sex_and_the_city_2_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOjpGFNfDKSdeK_5w0WTIVD018IcGbGq3XskQldSPJOoODoqP7fK1qWuPfgQIbtx4bdEIIiNxll7AcExARVV7KyX61DeXam1aTrMEHT37VHx2vOLe8bORgKnEWPRm7yQEiBeKPg-nCI_7/s640/sex_and_the_city_2_12.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">  </span>

Around the Arabian Gulf

This is the last set of pictures from my Arabian adventure.  One of my stops on the Persian Gulf cruise was Muscat, in the Sultanate of Oman...

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Dubai Daydreams

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dubai is a city that defies the odds, a modern metropolis made up of futuristic skyscrapers, set alongside traditional souks, man-made islands, seven star resorts, the world's tallest tower and enough shopping malls to empty any elite bank account. All this...in a <i>desert</i>.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvHHQYPM8Htrm9AP-1koGPbhkBLz7zqvHTDLaN6kcrjllY4iw_pB5QobiNy2ArcxfackFKJXiigzDVJYSODiha-dpA9sJHOERmA1-6fsH2_yq33jjkOVkWKD8wN3Uec9rYsYtXc9uU8qG/s1600/dubai1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvHHQYPM8Htrm9AP-1koGPbhkBLz7zqvHTDLaN6kcrjllY4iw_pB5QobiNy2ArcxfackFKJXiigzDVJYSODiha-dpA9sJHOERmA1-6fsH2_yq33jjkOVkWKD8wN3Uec9rYsYtXc9uU8qG/s640/dubai1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A hazy view of the modern silver skyline of this illustrous city. In the middle is the <i>Burj Khalifa</i> tower, which towers over all the other buildings in its midst.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJS85OxgHnsJDXKQU0V4fBjRVj7bqDhfNzy3kZXB-cNOMIntc9_0BNWsuNhg6UNtrXUEgiSjGKpzL31ZnWd32R8Mt9XfTuo0plNiSrXZi8JsVcUOimPNKRCNyjSTPRhX6Ui6TUQygfNDG/s1600/dubai3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJS85OxgHnsJDXKQU0V4fBjRVj7bqDhfNzy3kZXB-cNOMIntc9_0BNWsuNhg6UNtrXUEgiSjGKpzL31ZnWd32R8Mt9XfTuo0plNiSrXZi8JsVcUOimPNKRCNyjSTPRhX6Ui6TUQygfNDG/s640/dubai3.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A view from on top the world's tallest building, the <i>Burj Khalifa</i>, which stands at a staggering 828 m/2 716.5 feet. This 163 floor-structure can be seen from up to 95 km away and is less than a 3-minute elevator ride to the top.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6N_8xsHJU6E43umHfnO4NhefMSaNROCjN2gVFYVDl0TaHQEb_e9MiftEv8n51GSHHOOs0wncceghZ6dbmLujlwQV59vvZxjKNvEjEheCJrCHKi8o6Ytvoiz0n9AGOOFG8mEdUwHWh80I2/s1600/dubai2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6N_8xsHJU6E43umHfnO4NhefMSaNROCjN2gVFYVDl0TaHQEb_e9MiftEv8n51GSHHOOs0wncceghZ6dbmLujlwQV59vvZxjKNvEjEheCJrCHKi8o6Ytvoiz0n9AGOOFG8mEdUwHWh80I2/s640/dubai2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">An aerial view of the <i>Dubai Fountains,</i> which comes alive to a musical extravaganza at night.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Jqt9Q4YuJsQocsgwXX6DPIEwPMPaA69GAQkfYMTCF0iW_3UyKoOdckOyTcxZHKQXJrsxKgqxzHiI-Lq1poLuo3OCnUlum5w3A10XX2QF1P9O_L4yAnAoBwmZY4UYstwAiKb6PrQNv9Au/s1600/dubai6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Jqt9Q4YuJsQocsgwXX6DPIEwPMPaA69GAQkfYMTCF0iW_3UyKoOdckOyTcxZHKQXJrsxKgqxzHiI-Lq1poLuo3OCnUlum5w3A10XX2QF1P9O_L4yAnAoBwmZY4UYstwAiKb6PrQNv9Au/s640/dubai6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><u>Note to all Shopaholics:</u> <i>The Dubai Mall</i> is the largest shopping destination in the world, with over 1200 stores of buying bliss. Have a double shot of expresso to stay up on weekends, when the centre closes only after midnight. If you have a platinum credit card or miraculously inherited millions, you can indulge in one of the many luxury stores from Louis Vuitton, to Jimmy Choo, Marc Jacobs and Burberry. Or if you're just a normal-earning-human-being like the rest of us, have a browse at the usual brands of stylish chain stores like Zara, Bershka, H&M, Forever 21, Mango and a thousand more.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlaZPAzVx1Fap26x77nlW3VvqBL7MtiPtIKISZkufwkxS7boEfccG2DGHXUNf_alsr1ZefeedBsx92psWnhOsFzA79W8LJaAJqiXswF9my2gCqfk5tNWuuP6kgld0Z0eVmvAWErDRIr-Id/s1600/dubai7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlaZPAzVx1Fap26x77nlW3VvqBL7MtiPtIKISZkufwkxS7boEfccG2DGHXUNf_alsr1ZefeedBsx92psWnhOsFzA79W8LJaAJqiXswF9my2gCqfk5tNWuuP6kgld0Z0eVmvAWErDRIr-Id/s640/dubai7.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The most exciting, adrenelin-pumping part of my trip was a journey into the Sharjah desert, where an expertly trained driver steered us across the vast and rugged rolling sand dunes in a roller-coaster of a ride. </span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAX9XhIDmllElvUOkWl9Ko_hE-g-kSpy95GMvKiqDWjZ52r0UKLD6KTSxHygdUpanDctg0fD31NymIu5ruFG97sk5-1X3YTPpGG0wZTTt7Wngqb7xzjoPz-oeXqgoN_CuSfxe3yeqrQM6m/s1600/dubai8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAX9XhIDmllElvUOkWl9Ko_hE-g-kSpy95GMvKiqDWjZ52r0UKLD6KTSxHygdUpanDctg0fD31NymIu5ruFG97sk5-1X3YTPpGG0wZTTt7Wngqb7xzjoPz-oeXqgoN_CuSfxe3yeqrQM6m/s640/dubai8.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">After this head-spinning, stomach churning and exhilarating dune-bashing adventure, we were taken to a camp oasis set up in the middle of the desert, for a night of authentic Emirati cuisine under a golden desert sunset, and treated to dervish whirling, belly dancing, henna tattooing and a completely fascinating bedouin experience.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWU0p_-lHWWvE86gUtbU1wX_Nf8PmlReSA0OOIlX1aHNvox2JAh0wtz6nAkx7qbhajkisSBZnDtfW-kuotJTqujKo9DA4qisSKEhP-4fuIuXe99crpd6yI9n2y65gOv71ma0ERoOhL5vFL/s1600/dubai9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="563" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWU0p_-lHWWvE86gUtbU1wX_Nf8PmlReSA0OOIlX1aHNvox2JAh0wtz6nAkx7qbhajkisSBZnDtfW-kuotJTqujKo9DA4qisSKEhP-4fuIuXe99crpd6yI9n2y65gOv71ma0ERoOhL5vFL/s640/dubai9.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Whilst in the old city of Dubai, we followed the aromatic scent of exotic spices to <i>The Spice Bazaar</i>, where fresh and dried herbs and spices can be purchased at a bargain. The vendors offer an expansive variety of fragrant flavourants like saffron, peppercorns, cinnamon twills, turmeric, green cardamom, whole nutmeg and traditional Arabic coffee called 'Kawa'.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsr6RwwA71FeHcDwN0vE0CA5PRYWC3N3xfTdzOcxxnZ4ACxfk9axh6_JZg4gWg87TcmheY4NXUc2k2hO8mh4xeZjayCdgzch2AO3WB-0zV-Yfai_6utpm3xUEUvfrDDDVMF3U8bzOp28S/s1600/dubai4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsr6RwwA71FeHcDwN0vE0CA5PRYWC3N3xfTdzOcxxnZ4ACxfk9axh6_JZg4gWg87TcmheY4NXUc2k2hO8mh4xeZjayCdgzch2AO3WB-0zV-Yfai_6utpm3xUEUvfrDDDVMF3U8bzOp28S/s640/dubai4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The (not so lost) <i>City of Atlantis</i> is found on the edge of the artificial island Palm Jumeirah, and is based on the resort of the same name in The Bahamas. The perfect anecdote to the scorching desert sun, you can drift down a lazy river pool on a tube, go scuba diving with sharks and sting-rays, slide down one of the many mind-numbing water rides and take a walk through <i>The Lost Chambers</i> aquarium.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDkO4ku-_dg4ZVtkGpFPlOjBm4zw0HoVOayKTDxbii1bqKaUG6CItUYbKh0cL1gSQWn93mJi0ciRQIsBMdxffsAl37nt8bN0fagyO1eKan0SXGwed_nac8GhsST_srim4h-vmffv901vj/s1600/dubai5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDkO4ku-_dg4ZVtkGpFPlOjBm4zw0HoVOayKTDxbii1bqKaUG6CItUYbKh0cL1gSQWn93mJi0ciRQIsBMdxffsAl37nt8bN0fagyO1eKan0SXGwed_nac8GhsST_srim4h-vmffv901vj/s640/dubai5.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pristine beaches, blue cloudless skies and aquamarine seas...the best place to relax after all those days of mall-hopping, dune-driving, souk-searching and architectural admiring.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These were the highlights of my most recent trip to Dubai. </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is this a destination you have visited or would like to visit?</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>*All images belong to me.</i></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />

Dubai Daydreams

Dubai is a city that defies the odds, a modern metropolis made up of futuristic skyscrapers, set alongside traditional souks, man-made islan...

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Just Cruisin'

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dearest Friends,</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I blame my recent blog sabbatical on too much sun on the high seas, where the world of </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">wi-fi was left behind, along with dry land, work deadlines, college exams, daily life stresses...and above all, reality. I joined the Royal Caribbean's <i>Serenade of the Seas</i> cruiseliner for a memorable voyage along the tranquil waters of the Persian Gulf. </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These are a few snapshots from the trip.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKGHmuD_hsOH4vxW0pi18tBLKvrTelB8KIIGEjveWS3_6TV2u2QPKlAkOxJbTUUzxwWZ3Fg1KCx8zCyrhYRyntXwVbj0K-Guk_1p_vuRsUqui1XRUIf4xQQ17ou_ntQ9ydhCdM7uhLiNC/s1600/cruise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKGHmuD_hsOH4vxW0pi18tBLKvrTelB8KIIGEjveWS3_6TV2u2QPKlAkOxJbTUUzxwWZ3Fg1KCx8zCyrhYRyntXwVbj0K-Guk_1p_vuRsUqui1XRUIf4xQQ17ou_ntQ9ydhCdM7uhLiNC/s640/cruise.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The ship sails along the United Arab Emirates, through the Sultanate of Oman and Abu Dhabi. We were over 2200 guests on board from 65 different countries. It's a luxurious floating island fitted with a cinema, theatre, rock climbing wall, mini golf course, outdoor and indoor pools, hot tubs, steam room, a casino, spa, fitness centre and a range of bars & restaurants.</span></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDl6FtlbNrnaDWdu7WzUWaxxBQACgcICwfTkkpgomd9ffsZyTHKdSGldfwngKFkA_dXOk4gSnKaXrRjb7TOcy8X6_Z8N9tR6-Nx9Uq9As2UfShn2p7VoF5Aq4wrWE1lsePXoSasSuGb07/s1600/cruise2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDl6FtlbNrnaDWdu7WzUWaxxBQACgcICwfTkkpgomd9ffsZyTHKdSGldfwngKFkA_dXOk4gSnKaXrRjb7TOcy8X6_Z8N9tR6-Nx9Uq9As2UfShn2p7VoF5Aq4wrWE1lsePXoSasSuGb07/s640/cruise2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The <i>Centrum </i>(pictured above) is the central meeting point of the ship where all 13 floors reach a pinnacle. It's a great place for relaxing the day away, listening to live bands perform everything from Jazz to Lounge and Latin music. I spent hours here attending fun creative classes like sushi making, towel folding and cake decorating. The entertainment varied with quiz shows, dance classes and amazing aerial acts, with performers from <i>Cirque du Soleil</i>.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZy6FwSpRljnk3LYWOtCTXhmytxqi41KTXXDxo_X917l4SofWBfsDfLbV-WrS2YvgHZBFdJ89XUZepoKr2AsSKB7CxBUKmDHUpO-aQ4wX7_sxMrWm7CE7C03ox6ugw4YwVFaOxCKNT9pqz/s1600/cruise6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZy6FwSpRljnk3LYWOtCTXhmytxqi41KTXXDxo_X917l4SofWBfsDfLbV-WrS2YvgHZBFdJ89XUZepoKr2AsSKB7CxBUKmDHUpO-aQ4wX7_sxMrWm7CE7C03ox6ugw4YwVFaOxCKNT9pqz/s640/cruise6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The best place to be while out in the 36 degree sun is at one of the swimming pools. </span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikz_Tfzl1kfDKzGWZxyoTZf_mE8KTE2zzsAkb9w6lBk6edm_2zojp4aiY_t3lV6-88SWgdbiIhE8P4oR6jFs5nYUhRsHkZMVV6biTHpR0ADO0W7j8WQ-NisfxBrLfLTYyF6gf90ajz0oYo/s1600/cruise3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikz_Tfzl1kfDKzGWZxyoTZf_mE8KTE2zzsAkb9w6lBk6edm_2zojp4aiY_t3lV6-88SWgdbiIhE8P4oR6jFs5nYUhRsHkZMVV6biTHpR0ADO0W7j8WQ-NisfxBrLfLTYyF6gf90ajz0oYo/s640/cruise3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> This dining room with the sweeping staircase reminded me of The Titanic (in a good way, of course). The decor along the many bars and cafés on the indoor decks was richly opulent and grandly romantic </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">in velvet burgundy, cream and gold.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrR273lQcaVLu9QTPvYF46vXSppS3Y5kHk6BX-KXqf9dxpvJ3SX4o53XiWX0f61-wTB9xYl1OueN3_zdVLCk-TSjzvnQYuQV6g88-iTuYB0xkwGfz9dAaZZ0EbMwF7LvFC6EOQqC05-ly/s1600/cruise4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrR273lQcaVLu9QTPvYF46vXSppS3Y5kHk6BX-KXqf9dxpvJ3SX4o53XiWX0f61-wTB9xYl1OueN3_zdVLCk-TSjzvnQYuQV6g88-iTuYB0xkwGfz9dAaZZ0EbMwF7LvFC6EOQqC05-ly/s640/cruise4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> One of the themed evenings was an <i>Arabian White Night</i>, where the dress code was all white or anything out of <i>Aladdin's </i>wardrobe. The spicy scent of hookah shishah filled the air, spirits were through the (open-air) roof, buffet tables were laid out with an abundance of delicious midnight snacks & the DJ spun the perfect soundtrack for guests to dance the night away.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNnynqCaJuirUf3pBSpIN8BwweT4OoRCCNA7QDIWbIHOAQO2bHmRu1hfNQdgUc54E7rLDs4QgUOlMtzTYME8KIWuF1iL7pzc4w3y06pNfcOTRZgX4WNDAgdmbcEECqkknlIbrlv546QOfd/s1600/cruise7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNnynqCaJuirUf3pBSpIN8BwweT4OoRCCNA7QDIWbIHOAQO2bHmRu1hfNQdgUc54E7rLDs4QgUOlMtzTYME8KIWuF1iL7pzc4w3y06pNfcOTRZgX4WNDAgdmbcEECqkknlIbrlv546QOfd/s640/cruise7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A Beautiful Sunset at Sea </span></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3-s8J2UpIOW6UHbJILKNLBnqWwQuek7_xWJqqHVy3HQTX3znAY-kbbRU5-VvpaDsl92GFV8efhfOBNt27MagCFY_L0MINQn3qu_u1O8G6zjRHcjaD7ht9jm_znWxQGx27Fo1PfID6R4x/s1600/cruise4-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3-s8J2UpIOW6UHbJILKNLBnqWwQuek7_xWJqqHVy3HQTX3znAY-kbbRU5-VvpaDsl92GFV8efhfOBNt27MagCFY_L0MINQn3qu_u1O8G6zjRHcjaD7ht9jm_znWxQGx27Fo1PfID6R4x/s640/cruise4-001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another themed event was the very lively and energetic <i>70's Disco Party</i>, where the entertainment team led everyone in line dancing - although, to some people that meant 'zig-zag'. Also, the <i>Village People</i> made a surprise appearance to perform their 2013 cruise-line edition of 'YMCA', (pictured right). Not really - these guys are actually part of the crew. I hope they're being paid well enough to wear these costumes.</span></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjhSU0knwJdTXsWO_XzqbcQP-JQDg1zY6FHj12Zp6YwaGGM_wo_qlRno-k-g1GHjb6sy_SYnohUtcPXbJtj9ljC_zTfsCoAQ8v_wQGi_kW3YZYQCePc4eI5aozaQMFhEdZmT4E847oGis/s1600/cruise8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjhSU0knwJdTXsWO_XzqbcQP-JQDg1zY6FHj12Zp6YwaGGM_wo_qlRno-k-g1GHjb6sy_SYnohUtcPXbJtj9ljC_zTfsCoAQ8v_wQGi_kW3YZYQCePc4eI5aozaQMFhEdZmT4E847oGis/s640/cruise8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A scenic view from the shoreline.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope you've enjoyed my mini tour onboard the <i>Serenade of the Seas</i>. I will share pictures of some of the ports of call I visited soon.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;">*All images belong to me. </span></i></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></i></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></i></div><br />

Just Cruisin'

Dearest Friends, I blame my recent blog sabbatical on too much sun on the high seas, where the world of  wi-fi was left behind, along with d...

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How To Pack For A Holiday

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I bid you all a fond farewell for the next two weeks, as I leave for vacation today. In the spirit of jet-setting and sightseeing, I thought it would be a good idea to share my tips on how to pack an ideally stylish and functional suitcase for traveling abroad. What you pack obviously depends on where you will be going, the climate, activities involved and type of vacation. These are the items that I usually pack for a spring/summer holiday away.</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1qSvTYavRLzYeYpc4pnche3TNgqoodZqG0ywblQvDEUsd2SSwLA39j9DJ99UwC5zzQGULH72mAumKAPAXuG03fTO-DP3uj3V9Z74qWRjlpIxfO8yiY6ShAaIflmOAkizHBc15qTWm6yd/s1600/travel+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1qSvTYavRLzYeYpc4pnche3TNgqoodZqG0ywblQvDEUsd2SSwLA39j9DJ99UwC5zzQGULH72mAumKAPAXuG03fTO-DP3uj3V9Z74qWRjlpIxfO8yiY6ShAaIflmOAkizHBc15qTWm6yd/s640/travel+1.jpg" width="560" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I start with </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">adaptable pieces in </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">neutral tones - basic t-shirts, skinny jeans and tights. Selecting fabrics that won't crease when folded is helpful for when you reach your destination. Looking back at former holiday snapshots, I realized that I have always packed a striped top, it can be repurposed in so many different ways. A shirtdress looks chic for both day and night, and travels well. It can be styled up with heels and dressed down with flat sandals. A 'little black dress' is a must if you intend on attending any formal evenings. For outerwear, I picked a classic trench, in case of rainy days, and an animal print cardigan, in case of chilly days.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvQI_qyHT4k19lGs9ol9W7m4X4q-saET-6CVx78V-HSgOpjKCiV5nut6Bbnk1Lc153bom7Yr70Q2eo64iukILvWFZNyfA4Y3TWYYsXWPsJG0wA5CH3Qykn8WRmQfwaO8H9JedG1oiQ4mD/s1600/travel+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvQI_qyHT4k19lGs9ol9W7m4X4q-saET-6CVx78V-HSgOpjKCiV5nut6Bbnk1Lc153bom7Yr70Q2eo64iukILvWFZNyfA4Y3TWYYsXWPsJG0wA5CH3Qykn8WRmQfwaO8H9JedG1oiQ4mD/s640/travel+2.jpg" width="584" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now that you have built up the basics, it's time to add some saturation. I usually pick one or two colours from my closet that work well with black, white, beiges and denim. Sticking to a similar colour scheme will also help cut down on accessories and allow for interchanging pieces. This holiday, my primary shade is coral. I picked skirts, blouses, a blazer, sweater and dresses in this shade, adding pink to spice it up, as well as hints of black, so that it will all cohesively blend into the contents of my suitcase.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYEfo4eTzL1S_2VpdTU2uHRtpFzFWcMGhiokmLqUML_6j40HX_Dn3nTm11imW9mGp0sX1IOlwCahBVe8QS0sXbyUWpIAXIsVKxbPUlElq7wWXRXI9xpq12nM05CxpEBNRyxRij7iVb6Ix/s1600/travel+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYEfo4eTzL1S_2VpdTU2uHRtpFzFWcMGhiokmLqUML_6j40HX_Dn3nTm11imW9mGp0sX1IOlwCahBVe8QS0sXbyUWpIAXIsVKxbPUlElq7wWXRXI9xpq12nM05CxpEBNRyxRij7iVb6Ix/s640/travel+5.jpg" width="476" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I always find choosing the right type of shoes tricky. You never know what you will be in the mood to wear, and if there's a lot of walking and touring to be done, you have to ensure you carry a really comfy pair. Also, there may be occasions where you need to dress up and then you may require heels. I try to pick shoes and sandals that will match my travel wardrobe, dividing them into flats, trainers and heels. I don't ever take newly-bought-but-never-worn shoes with me - they may turn out to be feet assassins.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxwU2yyNV-FCYlXi9zG0TSpwwF6TczLYk-Ph6cx-pz5fRNXtZtI72n1jIJTbHH0d4Kw6OVIBTntMYMFJOWdnghSyW-_W7ATwaCKcJ2R-GwfxxHXGr1rB2r6_urNUq55PxqFHoTHVWs31p/s1600/travel+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxwU2yyNV-FCYlXi9zG0TSpwwF6TczLYk-Ph6cx-pz5fRNXtZtI72n1jIJTbHH0d4Kw6OVIBTntMYMFJOWdnghSyW-_W7ATwaCKcJ2R-GwfxxHXGr1rB2r6_urNUq55PxqFHoTHVWs31p/s640/travel+4.jpg" width="566" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The most fun part of packing...is selecting co-ordinating accessories. I love vibrantly printed scarves for jazzing up a monotone look. I use a daytime bag that's big enough to fit all my travel essentials and also carry a easily foldable black clutch, for formal dressing. I keep jewellery simple with just 4 or 5 pieces in corresponding colours and metals. One or two skinny belts will reinvent that summer dress or shirt. A UV protectant pair of sunglasses and a sun hat is a necessity for me - They serve the purpose of shielding you from the scorching sun and also hide any sleepless nights and bad hair days you may have while on holiday.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope you will find my 'How To Pack' guide useful the next time you are planning a trip. I would love to hear any packing advice you may have for me too. </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have prepared a few posts for while I am away, which will be wi-fi dependent. I will only be able to respond to comments when I get back in two weeks time, for this I apologize. I will miss my daily visits to your blogs and hope to catch up when I return.</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Until Then...Have a wonderful Easter! I wish you all well and chat to you soon.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ciao</span></i><br /><br /><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Sam</span></i><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /></i></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /></i></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>*All images found via Polyvore.</i></span><br /><br /><br />

How To Pack For A Holiday

I bid you all a fond farewell for the next two weeks, as I leave for vacation today. In the spirit of jet-setting and sightseeing, I thought...

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Viva España

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I may have physically returned to South Africa, but I left my heart and mind in Spain. Never before have I felt more 'at home' in a country and moreover, a city like Madrid. The Spanish way of life and joie de vivre is intoxicating - with all the sidewalk cafés, old-fashioned buildings with modern-sided façades, tree-lined streets, Chocolaté and Churros, languid 10pm sunsets and dinners that last through the night, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">impeccably dressed city dwellers </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and a <i>Zara</i> (literally) on every corner, what's not to love? It's a place that I could never tire of, there is so much to see and experience and Spain's eminent character and intrinsic sense of hospitality made my stay there even more memorable. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These are some of the cities and sights I was lucky to visit while there last month.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxOhUMgx_QHlFkO7SaTSzHVpdaEUu2Wvyq6V1XtJElw02LB1VF9Vw0gle9rkSRUwqFfbCrAxC92M6jEeIZky3TNjL69TxUznTLgwpjxlTvQgaAERz-hLTC148kLeC_tMeemEk2QjiF2hMz/s1600/spain1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxOhUMgx_QHlFkO7SaTSzHVpdaEUu2Wvyq6V1XtJElw02LB1VF9Vw0gle9rkSRUwqFfbCrAxC92M6jEeIZky3TNjL69TxUznTLgwpjxlTvQgaAERz-hLTC148kLeC_tMeemEk2QjiF2hMz/s640/spain1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The <i>Plaza Mayor</i> in Madrid is a popular city square where locals and tourists come to experience the contemporary culture that this engaging city has to offer. I sampled tapas for the very first time at one of the authentic Spanish bistros here. An eclectic array of artists, painters, dancers, buskers and street performers make their living in and around this 16th century 'rectangular' plaza. </span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcP2t0R7AKn2cAePcVUOkjTmp0QUuGEAqrM5Nu0GlbF8ON7ampEVJCpMOPLb7q-Buxo3QVoFcw_mqRgtHVw2v0CVHwUfJhhh7EQBqmStUupLOSbDKIgghNKzzZH1zJZz9k1gVgq_fXxQGM/s1600/spain2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcP2t0R7AKn2cAePcVUOkjTmp0QUuGEAqrM5Nu0GlbF8ON7ampEVJCpMOPLb7q-Buxo3QVoFcw_mqRgtHVw2v0CVHwUfJhhh7EQBqmStUupLOSbDKIgghNKzzZH1zJZz9k1gVgq_fXxQGM/s640/spain2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">We took a coastal drive down the spectacular Costa del Sol, where the sun kissed beaches and turquoise waters make it the perfect playground for holiday makers. We spent a night in the luxurious resort town of Marbella, which is a favourite suntanning spot of the rich and famous.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxyu1B2g9w48820xDorE35VmxOrZvt5iP3xewZ8YuZeviiDe_rI2SU_Z6EIOZx6WWWTXd6GXR1SedLFkSHKPmPszQ9Btk9vwv8LLM6D1NJjFX1NLheIy48E9GxY2mk1c05AtKRlhE9Mcip/s1600/spain3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxyu1B2g9w48820xDorE35VmxOrZvt5iP3xewZ8YuZeviiDe_rI2SU_Z6EIOZx6WWWTXd6GXR1SedLFkSHKPmPszQ9Btk9vwv8LLM6D1NJjFX1NLheIy48E9GxY2mk1c05AtKRlhE9Mcip/s640/spain3.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The enchanting town of Avila, a sanctuary built inside Romanesque medieval walls, it is known for their very many Renaissance Palaces and churches, as well as an assortment of sweet treats made by the local nuns, with marzipan being at the top of the dessert pile.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sY6wwFZ5vPnBIjCcHmyMNa0RXKtHyoSAbeonJtwj5e1Ok1w0YA7gYNQaGyd36y8SuSdgm0j10hzrlOXRj6FTSqa7KUTh6ivfV_PmVtBlDm1C6ogxL6j8XmGoIYeuJqOHYKfXcec5Dw_V/s1600/spain4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sY6wwFZ5vPnBIjCcHmyMNa0RXKtHyoSAbeonJtwj5e1Ok1w0YA7gYNQaGyd36y8SuSdgm0j10hzrlOXRj6FTSqa7KUTh6ivfV_PmVtBlDm1C6ogxL6j8XmGoIYeuJqOHYKfXcec5Dw_V/s640/spain4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">One of the most spirited and energetic cities I visited was Salamanca. It's a charming fusion of young student culture, ancient architecture, foreign photo-happy tourists, Castilian heritage, serene landscapes and a leisurely atmosphere. Salamanca also houses the oldest university in Spain, imagine soaking up your education amidst these beautiful historic surroundings.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-ENg4WCc4tu5QnA4_w3c_p-X4cNUYmW_QSuznbJvr_ZwGKsC6Pzm7sc0mxvHOil97btVAXpNEyZSzEYl4ZaOgPpjZiGoKK5nY3VkhLWr2g5QCHnnXn-NPF9sZRG6Y7QPrdM6IPjf5jE5/s1600/spain6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-ENg4WCc4tu5QnA4_w3c_p-X4cNUYmW_QSuznbJvr_ZwGKsC6Pzm7sc0mxvHOil97btVAXpNEyZSzEYl4ZaOgPpjZiGoKK5nY3VkhLWr2g5QCHnnXn-NPF9sZRG6Y7QPrdM6IPjf5jE5/s640/spain6.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A view of the <i>La Giralda</i>, a minaret-turned-bell-tower that forms part of the remarkable <i>Cathedral of Seville. </i>This Roman Catholic cathedral happens to be the third largest church in the world, built upon 23 500 square meters of Sevillian soil. It flaunts magnificent Gothic architecture and vivid stained-glass art from the 15th century.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Kums1fiD8BflzLBSiWzFEaBzHePBS_E2ZYwDAAV9f1pR88qAfnB3jGRx46jU9bhIT2sr3zkQzg678MIEYUoXspcW_9y_IEINxphS0LA1qh4pPLDdE4eV6-5XDOqvkRhW4h7c1NeMnQkZ/s1600/spain+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Kums1fiD8BflzLBSiWzFEaBzHePBS_E2ZYwDAAV9f1pR88qAfnB3jGRx46jU9bhIT2sr3zkQzg678MIEYUoXspcW_9y_IEINxphS0LA1qh4pPLDdE4eV6-5XDOqvkRhW4h7c1NeMnQkZ/s640/spain+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1. We booked a night out at a vintage theatre, where I was entranced by the incredibly talented, rhythmically stamping, castanet-clicking Flamenco dancers.<br /><br />2. The striking black and red fringed Flamenco costumes on sale on the sidewalks of Seville.<br /><br />3. A shady courtyard in the centre of Seville.<br /><br />4. The <i>Cervantes Monument</i> and bronzed statue of Don Quixote in <i>Plaza de España</i>, Madrid.<br /><br />5. You can't leave Spain until you've had Paella. I am now hooked.<br /><br />6. The statue of famous matador Curro Romero outside the <i>Plaza de Toros</i> in Seville.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio0p5rW4UXiNhZeIHHkAC_bMl30ZEdGfICC0NIIvpoWaujBymtcOi3gnNuVz6niUBhDQEER3ISYh4_5WsGApwN03eDy08EcVA2I0Psadm15SCUHmiTg9N6n3YeD-bGWEzcH6Uf6WfTuxIk/s1600/spain+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio0p5rW4UXiNhZeIHHkAC_bMl30ZEdGfICC0NIIvpoWaujBymtcOi3gnNuVz6niUBhDQEER3ISYh4_5WsGApwN03eDy08EcVA2I0Psadm15SCUHmiTg9N6n3YeD-bGWEzcH6Uf6WfTuxIk/s640/spain+6.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The picturebook town of Toledo, it's narrow winding streets and diverse archaic buildings tells a tale of three different religions and cultures that all resided harmoniously within ancient city walls during the 13th century. The town is connected by the Middle Ages-built Alcantara bridge that crosses over the tranquil river Tagus.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>*All photographs by me.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div>

Viva España

I may have physically returned to South Africa, but I left my heart and mind in Spain. Never before have I felt more 'at home' in a ...

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Memories of Morocco

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Traveling to the North of Africa, I didn't know what to expect. Coming from the same continent, I assumed it would be similar to South Africa, with all our tall skyscrapers, urbane sidewalks, modern cities and general mall-hopping culture. Well, I was in for a culture shock. Morocco is a country built upon a compelling history, where the opulent buildings and ancient avenues of the past still stand as it did centuries ago. Chaotic city streets, traffic jams made up of motorcycles and horse carriages, and tiny alley way markets where you can buy everything from your daily fruit and veg, freshly baked pastries to baby clothes, wedding decor, copper pots and pans or even a new sofa. An exotic explosion to the senses, I was immersed in the captivating customs, tantalizing food, rich heritage and diverse landscapes: sandy deserts on one side, the vast Atlantic ocean on the other and spirited old cities everywhere in between. These are some photos I captured on my recent trip there.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjGDkse4rAfQQfKYXPwFL5VvB9zz61zW5Jcq_fxg6ZhTJakJOhKhfYrviUOG6hwB7giISjkrna7ycBMaYDpdw4ghD1lZYwrL0kBu4cnXnIJqGtcJZ_iQUR5Xhm8IaHLe4Ehs-ench4SWD/s1600/fes+palace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjGDkse4rAfQQfKYXPwFL5VvB9zz61zW5Jcq_fxg6ZhTJakJOhKhfYrviUOG6hwB7giISjkrna7ycBMaYDpdw4ghD1lZYwrL0kBu4cnXnIJqGtcJZ_iQUR5Xhm8IaHLe4Ehs-ench4SWD/s640/fes+palace.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The Royal Palace in Fes, <i>Dar el Makhzen</i>, is still used as the King's residence when he visits the city. It provides a great example of the ornate architectural design that is prominent in Morocco. It's well worth a view just to see those grandiose golden doors up close.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLO2GBMATZ-pd4w1JATPuRPt5tUOCCedc3QKJA5jcZe9b6yxYGD_d1LdRt53B1GM6RKVUzp7yiv-cQo2gIycJknsU8zENFmci4LE7BiuSYNcugkJtBTogcptdFBF7xGYAWE2KBm_-PMIOp/s1600/morocco+fes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLO2GBMATZ-pd4w1JATPuRPt5tUOCCedc3QKJA5jcZe9b6yxYGD_d1LdRt53B1GM6RKVUzp7yiv-cQo2gIycJknsU8zENFmci4LE7BiuSYNcugkJtBTogcptdFBF7xGYAWE2KBm_-PMIOp/s640/morocco+fes.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A birds-eye view over the cream and beige Imperial city of Fes, a maze of over 9000 narrow streets, each one looking remarkably similar to the last, this is one place you do not want to get lost in! Legend has it that a tourist once went missing in the labyrinthine medina (old city) and only found his way out 3 months later...with a new wife in tow.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhmbUqz4sZSGa2QJAImxLu-uwAhIbzKwmzTOTDRZe7DS-njCxayvQZcSq2vZkip2zmvvUjoUZ8eDieU8m78o66CV08-sK2rrdrMgWBuoefrqjDVRwHIaHKS2n3oeqcLz7WU4YZEFfG1cP/s1600/morocco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhmbUqz4sZSGa2QJAImxLu-uwAhIbzKwmzTOTDRZe7DS-njCxayvQZcSq2vZkip2zmvvUjoUZ8eDieU8m78o66CV08-sK2rrdrMgWBuoefrqjDVRwHIaHKS2n3oeqcLz7WU4YZEFfG1cP/s640/morocco.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1. The <i>Hassan II Mosque</i> in Casablanca, which is the third largest in the world. 2. You can stop by for a drink at <i>Rick's Cafe,</i> the hub made famous in the movie, 'Casablanca'. 3. Our hotel overlooking the city of Rabat. 4. Laying sight upon the red stoned minaret of <i>Koutoubia</i> is a sure sign that we had reached Marrakech. 5. A lavishly dressed guard keeps a look-out at a Mausoleum of a former King in Rabat.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10qSmaogOTJJgChKk5ojAldNstpgeDQB-9blqpH2UnUjkeTrqwHV4lv7HmRr1F0CiuXCK7clBLn4lq2ijl_EiU7nBPyLOupJSBn3raozJ3Y1sgx2EMPTS8qJCgGAZdPxj0CmqjFolJ3ML/s1600/morocco+marrakesh.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatHLQ0ebbeJgqi6cuoAN_jZqRmbXMP-vcdERYV9WhrfYwZ2HafdsLuprBHJISs6CM6ACEPVdqSWpJUyCIBHOEfrQBT21BcW_Jw84pEY4XZlc-XhdbbU53ZbqJ79FVyORhI-XUguajHzur/s1600/morocco+marrakesh.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatHLQ0ebbeJgqi6cuoAN_jZqRmbXMP-vcdERYV9WhrfYwZ2HafdsLuprBHJISs6CM6ACEPVdqSWpJUyCIBHOEfrQBT21BcW_Jw84pEY4XZlc-XhdbbU53ZbqJ79FVyORhI-XUguajHzur/s640/morocco+marrakesh.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The famous <i>Jemaa el-Fna</i> Square in Marrakech comes alive as the sun sets. This exuberant souk is where you will find snake charmers, folk dancers, tarot-card readers, music-makers, astrologists, herbalists & traditional healers. Seeing it on the Travel Channel and actually being there in the pandemonian are two completely different things. The market has an electric vibe, teeming with locals & tourists, eager to catch a glance of one of the 'professional posers' or have a taste of the inviting native cuisine from one of the countless food stalls. You can also shop for uniquely Moroccan souvenirs like a fez (the hat, not the city;), fragrant spices, argan hair oil at half the price, antique silver teapots & a Djellaba kaftan.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Tfi6_Rw5uLyufcp3cHqgL7GLwoN6iGCn3XtRAlr8cKy8IxvU2dPbiT_dRMEbteEgTpVraJjOTw5gartHhKA3QNKYVvCku6-tSD2N73IxEseM6xvyJlP7keP5-fTth78IBfZFRQCxnOZq/s1600/morocco2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Tfi6_Rw5uLyufcp3cHqgL7GLwoN6iGCn3XtRAlr8cKy8IxvU2dPbiT_dRMEbteEgTpVraJjOTw5gartHhKA3QNKYVvCku6-tSD2N73IxEseM6xvyJlP7keP5-fTth78IBfZFRQCxnOZq/s640/morocco2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The vibrant culture, art and colours of Morocco. We spent time in the vast medina browsing for quaint antiquities and exquisite handwoven Persian rugs, one of which will set you back over €4000. One of the most memorable evenings was spent in an ancient riad-turned-guesthouse, where we served a delicious tagine and entertained by the sashaying moves of belly dancers to the ethnic sounds of folk singers dressed in traditional garb.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNSlivPcyBvXpIz4valS_-sfrF8v16oTRViHG6ERT8s1xCunshTIcd3YokWD6-czsNsMBp4j_SN4RTOL4lokOloyVq-nIglJnavp0E8G76mL6YBQcoDU_oD-4S7uhth6CbEvA4zQfmpa7/s1600/morocco3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgNSlivPcyBvXpIz4valS_-sfrF8v16oTRViHG6ERT8s1xCunshTIcd3YokWD6-czsNsMBp4j_SN4RTOL4lokOloyVq-nIglJnavp0E8G76mL6YBQcoDU_oD-4S7uhth6CbEvA4zQfmpa7/s640/morocco3.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Red sands and a forest of greenery pave the <i>Ulrika Valley</i>, a place that the Berber villagers call home amidst the Atlas Mountains.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><br /><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>*All photos taken by me.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><br /><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Memories of Morocco

Traveling to the North of Africa, I didn't know what to expect. Coming from the same continent, I assumed it would be similar to South A...

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Postcards From Portugal

<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While on my recent travels, I spent some time in the beautiful country of Portugal. I was fascinated to learn more about the close historical and trade-route ties between Portugal and South Africa. I really regret not paying more attention in history class when I was younger. I saw spectacular landmarks I had only ever read about. To follow in the footsteps of Vasco da Gama as he embarked upon his journey to the Cape of Good Hope was an experience that is unparalleled. </span></div><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I spent most of my time in Lisbon, a city of enchanting colours, cobblestone streets, awe-inspiring ancient edifices, a lush and expansive coastline and a riveting history of exploration and discovery. I loved how the old traditional side of the city is preserved in it's prime, with the newer and more modern buildings drafted to fit within it's charming vintage framework. And that Lisbon has not lost any of the characteristics of it's prolific past. These are some photos I snapped during my tour.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUy08tI5ol01WEgShxn53wLajku_8i1ZeSXDkrpc7Bh0HYZzy96T1G23RaDSZPnfg5X_eaGOXAeq7rwS-HJ7rj_LLWBcZrsG_JNbmPvqw7_pwQDITWHxXDNjG4jdocfA6nlje1luax3T_/s1600/lisbon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUy08tI5ol01WEgShxn53wLajku_8i1ZeSXDkrpc7Bh0HYZzy96T1G23RaDSZPnfg5X_eaGOXAeq7rwS-HJ7rj_LLWBcZrsG_JNbmPvqw7_pwQDITWHxXDNjG4jdocfA6nlje1luax3T_/s640/lisbon.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The <i>Jerónimos Monastery</i> is an opulent display of Gothic and Renaissance architectural design with an intrinsic Portuguese flair. It was one of the busiest tourist sites I visited in Lisboa. This Manueline style monument was built over 50 years during the reign of King Manuel I. The amazing nautical inspired interior features extensive halls, rope-trimmed, coral carved columns, reticulated vaults, lengthy aisles and most importantly, the tomb of Vasco da Gama.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi163_PyqyXCIxQoh67ciaJgvrjTbgAAWQByXv4rncc-wURxDyy71PNFUBgL8aJyHZyPidcul1ZO0RGR8rn8bR965_T-NB0zuDVVXs4doIE3QegX2O8NQvWkBTNdEA3B0tU2KuDZvpxURl0/s1600/portugal4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi163_PyqyXCIxQoh67ciaJgvrjTbgAAWQByXv4rncc-wURxDyy71PNFUBgL8aJyHZyPidcul1ZO0RGR8rn8bR965_T-NB0zuDVVXs4doIE3QegX2O8NQvWkBTNdEA3B0tU2KuDZvpxURl0/s640/portugal4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b>1</b>. The historic <i>Belém Tower</i>, which was built to defend the Lisbon harbour. <b>2</b>. The expertly sculpted <i>Monument to the Discoveries</i>, which depicts Portugal's most important figures and explorers. <b>3</b>. The <i>Shrine of Fátima</i>, one of the most important religious monuments in the country. There is a very interesting story behind it, have you heard it? <b>4</b>. The <i>Statue of King José I</i> and behind it is the <i>Arch de Triumph</i> of Rua Augusta. <b>5</b>. Standing tall over the city is the colossal <i>Cristo-Rei </i>statue, built in resemblance to the famous monument in Rio de Janeiro. </span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhghv_6VDppxoEYcDA8Zja4A9DASpFo7TDyk-JESU1HS2tEVltrn8VAoBe-vcsXhHwXKGsvYlPefRJ9s-NgewduEu2l27_Fn4y7AUhhaxJSYljHE6sfZXziA4UB7qcP6rreX4qpbD95UTIx/s1600/portugal7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhghv_6VDppxoEYcDA8Zja4A9DASpFo7TDyk-JESU1HS2tEVltrn8VAoBe-vcsXhHwXKGsvYlPefRJ9s-NgewduEu2l27_Fn4y7AUhhaxJSYljHE6sfZXziA4UB7qcP6rreX4qpbD95UTIx/s640/portugal7.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lisbon is one of the most colourful cities I've been to. The apartment blocks and modern buildings are painted in radiant, cheery shades, with pink and yellow being a favourite. I also noticed that they decorate their outer walls with lovely patterned tiles.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQYvDhCKiOW4dCrXivem14uIaVrHwm1DB_cKKVd89M9GrcWXv-Yl9p1b6GyEcajyHxjEGY8ebjN2NUKySrZsbmeVuYPe7t10qIpaNJHB4vH6q83_PA1EY15hJsZSup6QirmyIEbAiCjG1S/s1600/lisbon+bridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQYvDhCKiOW4dCrXivem14uIaVrHwm1DB_cKKVd89M9GrcWXv-Yl9p1b6GyEcajyHxjEGY8ebjN2NUKySrZsbmeVuYPe7t10qIpaNJHB4vH6q83_PA1EY15hJsZSup6QirmyIEbAiCjG1S/s640/lisbon+bridge.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A view of the <i>25 de Abril </i>bridge, a crossway over the placid blue waters of the Tagus River. </span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHU7PIVaFvS1yfP1xF6MimR3V3hqizMme3U7J94WA7VIWKhoTAWgvJJTmXy1muLTwXkrnhLKIqnGA7cN7mecPYsbzHxH9qdgf77-exdkTiLuup1VUEkTK2hhR0puLJMqHIX_kI3vnvZGZ/s1600/lisbon4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwHU7PIVaFvS1yfP1xF6MimR3V3hqizMme3U7J94WA7VIWKhoTAWgvJJTmXy1muLTwXkrnhLKIqnGA7cN7mecPYsbzHxH9qdgf77-exdkTiLuup1VUEkTK2hhR0puLJMqHIX_kI3vnvZGZ/s640/lisbon4.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The beautiful <i>Rossio Square,</i> where we stopped by to join the locals in dining out at one of the bustling restaurants and coffee shops, and also for some retail therapy. </span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>*All photographs taken by me. </i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><br /><br /></i></span></div>

Postcards From Portugal

While on my recent travels, I spent some time in the beautiful country of Portugal. I was fascinated to learn more about the close historica...

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Treasures of Istanbul

<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hello from the mystical city of Istanbul...I stopped by this historic Turkish wonder during my travels this past week. Istanbul is a melting pot of European and Asian heritage, these two culturally-rich continents are separated only by </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">the deep blue Bosphorus Strait. The opulent architecture of the Old City is richly influenced by Byzantine and Ottoman designs. Grand mosques, bustling bazaars, steaming Turkish baths and museums that house sacred relics from centuries ago. Then there is the <i>other</i> side of Istanbul - the New City, flecked with hip hotels, fine dining restaurants, shopping malls and buzzing night spots. </span></div><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's the best of both worlds;</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> ancient and modern, classic and upwardly mobile, old traditions collide with 21st century technology, and through it all, Istanbul's practice of time-honoured hospitality has remained an integral part of it's steadfast foundation. The best way to explore the city is on one of the many Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing buses. Which is when I got to capture some of these important historical sites.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6cEEdqs9H55GEsNdN1ZXDf_Xboz9NyKee6JJaqb-Q5JFdEkMYbcUD0HNwWDvwcRbgtr2hziL8ZpLXWSvas_I5brd9ontiNFUfq96HyZlQ5ifQ-8iZ1QN-44x5G_3cPNVY5-1PYX7Xsm04/s1600/istanbul1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6cEEdqs9H55GEsNdN1ZXDf_Xboz9NyKee6JJaqb-Q5JFdEkMYbcUD0HNwWDvwcRbgtr2hziL8ZpLXWSvas_I5brd9ontiNFUfq96HyZlQ5ifQ-8iZ1QN-44x5G_3cPNVY5-1PYX7Xsm04/s640/istanbul1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>The Blue Mosque</i>, which probably the most iconic landmark in Istanbul, has towered over the city since the 1600's. The eight domes and six minarets that are perfectly proportionate, the faint blue tiles gave the name to this palatial monument.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmD3SuTQ9Be-YZtMcTY0s6HYLKZ5u5QtsBNxgjAmklZmi9MsCh3w5Xgs-A8it3l0Be-sb2EWM4Bho7UXLS9eMOEVmlE8xM3QvG07ZquAm7pe_QMSU8zSfOWJVvOGpKiU4BNmUpmvL4afe/s1600/istanbul2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmD3SuTQ9Be-YZtMcTY0s6HYLKZ5u5QtsBNxgjAmklZmi9MsCh3w5Xgs-A8it3l0Be-sb2EWM4Bho7UXLS9eMOEVmlE8xM3QvG07ZquAm7pe_QMSU8zSfOWJVvOGpKiU4BNmUpmvL4afe/s640/istanbul2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The half-hour long queues to enter the <i>Topkapi Palace</i> was an indication of how intriguing and fascinating it would be. The Ottoman empire ruled for three centuries from within the grandiose walls of this castle. Inside is a spectacular treasury of artifacts worth far more than it's weight in 22-carat gold. Lavish thrones and everyday household objects that were carved from solid gold and silver, encrusted with rubies, diamonds and emeralds the size of your mobile. Unfortunately they do not allow photographs to be taken inside the museum and is under constant security. Jewel thieves and everything. </span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3YyI1qn35VYQ2viJ7PtGH-L1F-mf3SeG9GB3VIdhJKNqQCWv0_2JobY9xCLRsLvc8cI5CGoAEpZsdtcHtuMkY6O0I_L5FN50JirN4kcHCOUmihhZNp8GFC5Hv_hcJ4_2emtJhYIu_4Wm/s1600/istanbul3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3YyI1qn35VYQ2viJ7PtGH-L1F-mf3SeG9GB3VIdhJKNqQCWv0_2JobY9xCLRsLvc8cI5CGoAEpZsdtcHtuMkY6O0I_L5FN50JirN4kcHCOUmihhZNp8GFC5Hv_hcJ4_2emtJhYIu_4Wm/s640/istanbul3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Walking underground in the icy chambers of the <i>Basilica Cistern</i> was like being on the set of The Vampire Diaries. Built in the 6th century and held up by 336 Corinthian-style columns, the cistern was used to store water. A strange but very interesting feature of this reservoir are the two upside-down heads of the Greek mythological character, Medusa. It's most likely that her presence was to ward off evil spirits in those ancient times.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTN7An8VaacBKmMNz4dqzo7smyeibiV221lWPTbdbgSqT0TKdXbopTvJDtMl_jRil8AXSfBh07-R26THMfPI7rrIZmZCQI2q2YJtqdncLphSrFUsyaNYdFCYjB9tNjlCID5704PsP2GN-s/s1600/istanbul4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTN7An8VaacBKmMNz4dqzo7smyeibiV221lWPTbdbgSqT0TKdXbopTvJDtMl_jRil8AXSfBh07-R26THMfPI7rrIZmZCQI2q2YJtqdncLphSrFUsyaNYdFCYjB9tNjlCID5704PsP2GN-s/s640/istanbul4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The exotic scents of earthy spices and rose-water, pistachio rolled Turkish delight led me to <i>Egyptian Spice Bazaar</i>, and from there, the famous <i>Grand Bazaar</i>, where I tried (very unsuccessfully) to haggle my way to a not-so genuine original imitation Birkin bag. There are 4400 indoor sidewalk stores selling silk pashminas in every imaginable shade, enticing pieces of jewellery, leather jackets in all styles, luxurious Persian rugs and local handicrafts. </span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZU78wE45zAH9x_emhwFy9ovmYJ-FKy-XpQDhEAUuHzIczGVO9ViC-XMHsHhW9b5yjk-dRFjrb00wiUq3XdTGA5nK3recmxZV5mj6GI58RzFUmmXSL_lz687g6DQv2I2EkeGCN1bNaZK9V/s1600/istanbul5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZU78wE45zAH9x_emhwFy9ovmYJ-FKy-XpQDhEAUuHzIczGVO9ViC-XMHsHhW9b5yjk-dRFjrb00wiUq3XdTGA5nK3recmxZV5mj6GI58RzFUmmXSL_lz687g6DQv2I2EkeGCN1bNaZK9V/s640/istanbul5.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A traveler's street side view of the <i>Hagia Sophia,</i> once a church, a mosque and now a museum, it retains features of both Roman and Ottoman architecture. With an awe-inspiring 56m dome, antiquated chandeliers, intricate mosaic finishings, sturdy pillars and soaring arches, the 'Aya Sofya' is one of most extraordinary historic buildings in Turkey.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2tJNuUqR0efU2zX3zzGBvV1ePAG-F9KXIjK3wgv6jzVCh-uyc23BwtBdw3TCrTNSvgJp9cnHVgkOKhy-DPj5POcJ7Ufo5NfGgha1Bix9NqNw4XE0hEilmXAIEqwjMtP-UJ1dMVzJSPko/s1600/istanbul7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt2tJNuUqR0efU2zX3zzGBvV1ePAG-F9KXIjK3wgv6jzVCh-uyc23BwtBdw3TCrTNSvgJp9cnHVgkOKhy-DPj5POcJ7Ufo5NfGgha1Bix9NqNw4XE0hEilmXAIEqwjMtP-UJ1dMVzJSPko/s640/istanbul7.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The serene blue waters of the Bosphorus waterway.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><br /><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWdZ9kUcMenJbcrW9h_RR43-Nge76VsVWhJX8Jvhy318vHZ87HqpkokbFM8vBS5Nf2lYS0fn3fA8t_SNLRJPMTDNIrocv6iuUxmm5rO0YuWWEwztXRrJdBMvS673WdMcx2CyjaPpJCnLF/s1600/istanbul6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWdZ9kUcMenJbcrW9h_RR43-Nge76VsVWhJX8Jvhy318vHZ87HqpkokbFM8vBS5Nf2lYS0fn3fA8t_SNLRJPMTDNIrocv6iuUxmm5rO0YuWWEwztXRrJdBMvS673WdMcx2CyjaPpJCnLF/s640/istanbul6.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><br /><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">A marvelous vista over Istanbul in a very warm 34 degrees. A city of many faces and traditions, the ripples of it's captivating history has made way for a very exciting future and a present which is just that, 'A Gift'.</span></td></tr><br /></tbody></table><br /><br /><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*All photographs by me. </span></i><br /><br /><br /><br /><span id="goog_1610524761"></span><span id="goog_1610524762"></span>

Treasures of Istanbul

Hello from the mystical city of Istanbul...I stopped by this historic Turkish wonder during my travels this past week. Istanbul is a melting...

Read more »