Morocco (September, 2014) – I'm unsure if the Art Deco details or the muted hues drew my attention first, but the coral gate was different from its surroundings. I have an intellectual draw towards the romanticism of postcards, letters, calligraphy and all things postage. Cast against the adobe hues, the amusement of a lovely coral letterbox invigorated my imagination. 

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – I still have flashbacks and glorious dreams calling me back to the ancient fortified city. With our travel in Central Asia; occurring outside the typical touristy times of the year, we appeared to have the benefit of minimal wayfarers and the freedom to roam. After spending the day driving the famed Silk Route; our arrival in Khiva felt surreal. We wandered up to the Hotel's roof to catch a glimpse of the setting sun against the eastern wall of the wondrous Itchen Kala before heading out to explore a little further before total darkness.

Türkiye (November, 2019) – We navigated the Hagia Sophia with extreme enthusiasm, as it is part of my great silkroad bucket list. The combination of architectural styles and varying religious motifs from a number of bygone eras is the precise area of interest... the migration of spiritual beliefs and practices. The museum that we visited had a spiritual energy which felt open and respectful of its mercurial history. Alas the museum has been transformed again into an active religious site. 

India (January, 2017) – Days before my departure; the family reassembled for a joint pre-wedding ritual for a bride and a first rice ceremony for a tiny-tot. As with most cultures, food is an essential part of the ritual process, for Bengali's this means fish curry. Out on the back patio-garden, a multitude of family hands each contributed some effort into preparing a portion of the festive meal.

France (September, 2014) – We spent a nice part of the afternoon rambling around the Jardin des Plantes, including exploration inside several of the glorious galleries. The light cast through the ornate staircase railing was my little moment of mental repose, while my mind attempted to digest the paleontological and comparative anatomical wonders I had just encountered.

Morocco (September, 2014) – We escaped the Medina for a jaunt into a more modern take on Marrakesh. My memory recalls how unexpectedly the glorious sun refracted the metallic surfaces, set against a terracotta colour scheme. Away from the bright mosaics and intricate carpets, the large handworked doorways are a marvel discovery - evidently more pronounced with the dimming of the light.

Türkiye (November, 2019) – We skirted around Istanbul for 36  hours between flights, after a month in Central Asia. The short sejour clearly wasn't enough time to see the city, or overindulge in the culinary delights. We did however have a great time meandering around some of the historical Ottoman sites. We passed the beautiful Fountain of Ahmed III several times, each time it had a different feel and a different pull due to the reflections of light.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We arrived in Khiva, while the diminutive light started lowering on the horizon. Before losing all light we set out for a jaunt, trying to take in as much before settling in for the night. On my wander around in admiration of the colourful mosaic tiles with varying hues of greens and turquoise, I discovered a curious photographer with his gilded gold chair. It took a few days to convince the matriarch to let me immortalize her moment with a super touristy snapshot next to the Kalta Minor Minaret. Looking back at the costume and resisting expression, still makes me laugh. 

Canada (October, 2023) – By complete happenstance; our weekend excursion led us to see Ravana being assembled for detonation next month. The smallest of our platoon members seemed most excited at getting closer to the demonic character, completely distracted from the prideful squadron of Canadian geese grazing about.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – After several days driving back westwards across the formidable island. Through various landscapes, I was keenly aware that the jungle island of the past was but a memory. The roaring engine passed through cultivated lands, desertscapes, lush canyons and mud flats. Eventually, we started to see a speckling of Boabab trees, marking our destination point.

USA (November, 2000) – We emerged to a beautiful sunrise view including a dusting of snow with fresh coyote tracks. The enchantments continued as we pereginated around Monument Valley. Our Navajo chaperon guided us through the sacred lands, beyond the typical sandstone mittens. The expedition took us to lesser known, yet no-less bewitching locations. 

USA (November, 2000) – Looking up the sandstone-walls, we observed the ancestral puebloan cliff dwellings and clusters of various sized petroglyphs depicting auspicious symbols that radiate the imagination. Often enough the natural environment holds an energy, in Canyon de Chelly that energy overwhelms the rational mind. 

As I reflect on truth and reconciliation; I recognize the need to demonstrate more gratitude, more appreciation and more conservation of the land and its traditions.

USA (November, 2000) – Instead of freaking out, I meandered around taking a few photographs of the mesmermizing desertscape and a dessicated cluster of cacti. I am not a stormchaser, but on our way to Zion, even with evidence of darkness fast approaching, we gleefully watched the threat approach. As concrete jungle Canadians, we spent the next few days out of our element, desert driving under the snow... It was magical!

Madagascar (March, 2010) – The drive from Fianarantsoa was quite lovely. Winding our way down between the hills of cultivated farmland: vertical rice patty's, corn and cassava plantations. At some point we hit a bend in the road; my immediate reaction was hailing for the car to stop. As before us was a majestic traveller's palm (and a group of children presumably on their way from school). Incidentally while I was off getting a few shots of the glorious palm tree, my travel companion was bullied by a snake. The unintended pit-stop provided an animated reaction that set the childish gaggle into a state of suspended amusement.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – As we endure the gusts of an Indian summer, I can't help but think of how quickly the lazy, hazy summer-daze pass and seasons change. I reckon it won't be long until we're back to bursts of winter storms, haphazardly dropping heaps of snow on surprised tourists. Tashkent was lovely under a blanket of snow, my barefoot sneakers less magical. 

Canada (August, 2023) - We admired the drummers and dancers: most in beautifully beaded and feathered regalia. I always love the sounds of drums, like a thunderous heart beats conducting the dancers foot work. We continued to amuse our senses under the stormy sky and monstrous raindrops until a temporary repose was issued.

France (March, 2022) – We skirted around along the quais before hitching a train. The steps up from the water's edge, led us upon the quintessential vintage Parisian panorama. It felt like ascending back in time; a sort of magical momentary flash of nostalgic happenstance.

France (March 2022) – While the giant and his brood prepare to explore my homestead - I fondly think back to theirs. To the jaunts through history, art and culinary delights. Situated on Ile Saint-Louis is a small triangular parkette which is an ideal place to people-watch with a glorious Berthillion gelato in hand. 

Canada (August, 2023) – Back to life; back to usual wander through one the city's modern garden paradise.  Currently the pond outside the museum has been transformed into an abstract installation; which reads.... “There is a voice that doesn't use words. Listen". Rumi's words permeate the entire space, with a feeling of connectivity - beyond religion, beyond boundaries, beyond the feeble human mind. 

India (December, 2016)  – When I need to relax, calm down, settle into a reflective mental headspace I often think back to mountain tops and monasteries. Back to altitudes, heightened attitude, deep breaths and the small details. It's a release which brings comfort, creates more wanderlust and a sense of freedom.

France (March, 2022) – Maybe it's the current mood; but there is an air of nostalgia humming around. After lunch; we walked back to Jardin des Plantes for a discovery tour of Les Grande Serres. Each glass hub provided a new climate; with new foliage, new blooms and exotic scents. It was a lovely afternoon with an old dear friend, rediscovering old haunts.

France (September, 2014) – A little creepy, a little eerie and out of the normal comfort zone, the Natural History museum and its famed collection of bones is a marvel to explore. The galleries have glass windows which allow a luminous light to magnify some rather haunting skeletal shadows. Entry into mammalia begins with human anatomy and ends in dramatic fashion with a blue whale carcass. My favorite section though is the glass ceiling gallery, and its skeleton collection of monstrous beasts and outrageous fossils.

Mexico (November, 2017) – After a whirlwind experience; lost in a world of fantastical beasts, devils, catrina's, a multitude of public altars, processions and a little mescal, we migrated back to the country's capital for a few days. We ended our journey by making the pilgrimage into the absurd world of Kahlo and Diego.

India (December, 2016) – We spent much of the morning driving up the mountain roads to admire a sacred lake; the result of glacier runoff. In my humble opinion, the panorama upwards and out was more spectacular than the final destination. Hills upon hills, clouds, mist, dew, and majestic blue skies. We stopped for a brief repose at the side of the mountain road. Looking back towards Seven Mile, a tiny hillside village with a little convenience shop and a beautiful row of pray wheels made of large plastic rasgulla containers. The repose allowed us to reimagine the crazy mountain road we had just survived.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – Having arrived in the middle of nowhere; the train halted, unable to traverse any further due to damage to the tracks ahead from the cyclone earlier in the month. My companions went in search of lodgings for the night; while I followed the boisterous cheering sounds, further up a little hillside. My little jaunt led me to a small group of boys playing foosball. Upon getting closer I noticed one of the boys holding a long thin stick with a small creature on it. To my surprise he had in his possession a golden mouse lemur. It was evident that his pet needed to be kept close, having use of one hand did not seem to deter him from playing in what appeared to be the season's championship match.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We arrived at the Hazrati complex during renovation. The vast majority of the mosque and madrasa were restricted from visiting. The tiny museum, adjacent to the mosque holds a beautiful kufic script quran. Printed on skin, not paper it is one of the earliest replications of the original mushaf dating as far back as the 7th century. While I can't read any of the scripts, it reignited my love of calligraphy. 

India (December, 2016) – Years later, I still soothe myself with memories of Sikkim. The view under the gaze of Guru Padmasambhava from his temple mound on Samdruptse Hill, was a sublime sight. The fresh mountain air and snow covered peaks of the Kangchenjunga, up above the whispering of clouds remains a tranquil meditative repose.

Mexico (November, 2017) – This image is in celebration of mother earth, even if the devilishly deceiving prickly, yet delightfully beautiful cacti becomes its emblem. This majestic wall of amplifying greenery was a spectacular sight to be had. I got close, stepped away, I perched up and crouched down to admire her volume and militance. Even in the harshest of conditions; mother nature has had the tenacity to stand up.

France (March, 2022) – It's interesting how a year later, the same image brings forth a completely different perspective. Somewhere lost in L'Atelier des Lumieres between the impressions of Cézanne and the abstract animations of Kandinsky, Chopin to Bowie as the soundtrack, was mesmerizing. Somehow though looking through the archive it feels apocalyptic... ground control?

Canada (December, 2012) –  For years; I would randomly see Kevin the neighbour. Framed in his window; Kevin provided that last sovereign state of calm, that last meditative fresh breath before passing through the gates of Narnia into a glorious haze of chocolate. Serendipitously, seeing the furry fluff next door was always a great omen to start my day.

Morocco (September, 2014) – While exploring Marrakech, the customary "do you mind if I take a shot" led to the duo in unison saying "oui" while simultaneously raising their water bottles. My reaction to which was an animated thank-you and an acknowledgment they made the shot better. Of course not everyone wants to be admired by the tourist gaze; here I admire the creativity, I also encourage more of it. Our week in the labyrinth of the Medina holds bittersweet nostalgia; but I'll be back there one day for more sweet banter if nothing else.

Madagascar (March, 2010) –  After several weeks of trekking, trailing and hiking, I was finally able to just let go and enjoy the beach views of Anakao.  The five days, hiding out in a remote resort was bliss. From the family style dining perch on a very large veranda, I watched almost ceremoniously as the local Veso fisherman paddled past each morning. Often whistling loud enough that I could hear them way beyond the seashore.

India (December, 2016) – We walked the winding langur lined path towards "the most haunted site in India". At Bhangarh; the scariest part for me was the battle cry of a hangry langur, swatting at me for getting too close without providing her just rewards. Symbolic of Hanuman or not, the ghastly beasts were better left to look at from afar. 

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – I stood in the middle of the mausoleum for a long time, taking in as many different turquoise shapes as possible. It was the second visit to Shah-i-Zinda, the light completely different from the sunny skies from a few days prior. It provided a different kind of light cast against the mesmerizing monochromatic domed interior. 

Mexico (January, 2019) – We arrived at Uxmal, delirious from our morning escapade into one of the many cavernous cenotes in the region. I took my own path navigating the world heritage site; while the entourage ran from one end to the other. The scenic route allowed me to revisit some of the more memorable haunts, despite not repeating my ascent to the top of Pyramid of the Magician.

USA (September, 2016) – I exited the subway on my way to the ICP to immerse myself in the galleries. I spent the majority of the day wandering in and out of some phenomenal spaces. Eventually, ending up in a cafe, geeking out on camera talk and world events with an interesting character from overseas. Before getting back on and getting lost in the famed tangle of subway lines.

France (March, 2022) – Trying to find inspiration in this week's theme, I found myself listening to Erik Satie's: Gymnopédies. It reminded me of a calm spring afternoon; meandering along the banks - waltzing through the city's green spaces, entangled in its musical architecture. The dreamy melodic notes; whispering sweet fantasies, an absurd opposite of the music's title reference... Sparta!!

India (December, 2016) – The repetitive geometric design carved deep into the earth's surface was a spectacular sight. Although the green hue of the diminutive rainwater, marked the miraculous site of a bygone era. We arrived late in the afternoon at Abhaneri to explore the historical Chand Baori. To my surprise the moment of revelry came from happenstance; observing an old Hindu priest begin his daily rituals.

Madagascar (March, 2010) – It was magical; the light trying to burst through the clouds, through the humidity suspended in the air. Dense was the mist and fog that we could barely see past the first layer of trees. As we moved closer to our destination, evidence of landslides and eroded earthly tumbles became more prominent. Despite the fog and resulting humidity, each train-stop provided a lively exchange.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – Samarkand is a geometric haven for those who enjoy masterful repetition upon repetition. It caused moments of heart thumping; conceptualizing that each tile has been hand cut and inlayed into the monumental facades. As with most of the historical sites we visited, the Registan was a glorious architectural feat.

India (December, 2016) – We arrived at the bedraggled palace, after a sunny drive through the dusty desert. The caretaker let into the decaying Rajput era compound to explore the some areas of the derelict beauty. He guided around; with animated pantomime pointing out some of the more majestic details. We enjoyed a calm cup of tea, before a boisterous group of mini-trespassers reanimated scenes of a nostalgic past.

USA (November, 2000) – We arrived at Monument Valley via the Valley of the gods; as the glowing light of a majestic sunset had begun to settle against the horizon, showcasing the monumental buttes in full glory. We spent the night in the lodge, before meeting with our Navajo guide first thing the following morning. She navigated us towards numerous mythical sites including; the Mittens, the Ear of the Wind, the Eye of the Sun and the Three Sisters. All much more magical under a dusting of snow, which unfortunately evaporated with the midday sun. 

Thailand (January, 2003) – About twenty years ago; (give or take a day or two) I spent a single day in the old Siamese capital, taking in as many of the historical sights as possible before mounting the night bus back to Bangkok. I still remember it as a magical day, essentially monastery hopping from one end of the city to the other. Throughout the day, the ancient statues and architectural wonders grew larger and larger. At Wat Mahathat, amongst the hullabaloo of days' wondrous discoveries was a single Buddha head enveloped by the tangled roots of an old banyan tree. I imagine with time, that the historical relic will be reclaimed entirely by mother nature. I still feel blessed having had the chance encounter, as the lore of the encased Buddha head was what brought me to Ayutthaya in the first place.