https://pariferal.com/2020/04/10/pandemic/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/img_20200404_092541_590.jpgSchwabingerTorDeserted tram stop at Schwabinger Tor in Munich (Apr 2020)2020-04-10T14:43:30+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2020/02/16/strangely-content/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/img_20191229_140936-1.jpgSanta Barbara MarinaA view of the Santa Barbara marina from Stearn's Wharf (Dec 2019)2020-02-16T20:40:39+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2020/01/25/goals-2020/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_20190705_065446_7215693157687538612936.jpgGironaWalking through the town of Girona with its red bridge (Jun 2019)2020-01-25T13:43:13+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/12/31/ending-2019/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_20190630_113636_4314919533289535118502.jpgBesaluBesalu with its iconic bridge and fortifications. (Jun 2019)2019-12-31T16:27:36+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/12/28/empty-table/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/dsc_1791-2.jpgEmpty TableAn empty table stands outside an alleyway cafe in Begur (June 2019)2019-12-28T15:42:55+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/07/12/contrasting-skies/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/img_20190616_224626_5515671747983499196904.jpgDualityThe cool shades of dusk on one side and the fiery shades of the sunset on the other (June 2019) 2019-07-12T16:32:49+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/05/30/a-better-place/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_20190427_172118-1.jpgEibseeIs there any good reason to not smile when surrounded by this breathtaking view? (April 2019)2019-05-30T09:53:11+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/05/26/partnachklamm/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_20190428_112908.jpgPartnachklamm IIWhile the turbulent waters flow through the gorge below you, the play of light and shadows around you in equally fascinating. The sound of the waters drown out your innermost thoughts. (April 2019)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_20190428_112705.jpgPartnachklamm IWater showers down the edge of the gorge feeding the raging waters below. (April 2019)2019-05-26T11:32:13+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/05/18/the-shape-of-you/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_20190427_170029-2.jpgZugspitze from EibseeA view of the Zugspitze from the other side of the Eibsee (April 2019)2019-05-18T17:59:20+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/05/12/mothers-day/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_20190428_120202.jpgColors of Nature IISeen at the Kaiserschmarrn Alm on the way up from Partnachklamm to the Eckbauer (April 2019)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_20190427_174012.jpgColors of Nature IIISeen at the cafe on the banks of the Eibsee (April 2019)2019-05-12T10:29:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/05/10/colors-of-nature/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_20190427_163710.jpgEibsee IIThe colors of the Eibsee seem to change as you walk around it. (April 2019) 2019-05-10T18:56:45+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/10/27/street-art-in-shoreditch/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_20181004_230833629.jpgImagineFor how many people would it be easy to do one thing and simultaneously imagine that you are doing something else? Like imagining that you are flying while you swim in the pool reflecting the blue sky above? (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_20181004_083400932.jpgIntrigueI took this picture simply because I was intrigued by the expression on that face. (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_20181004_083341398.jpgMind The GapI didn't quite understand this... why would you mind the gap between kings and toys? Or did someone mean kings and boys? I await to be enlightened. (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_20180505_212344945_ll.jpgHolywell LaneMusic will set you free - I saw this in summer of 2018 opposite the Citizen M hotel in Holywell Lane. (May 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_20181005_081317988_hdr.jpgShoreditch"Let's Adore and Endure Each Other" - a short eloquent, almost poetic, message. Hard to miss and easy to like. (Oct 2018)2019-05-10T18:45:15+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/10/28/the-crow/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/img_20181023_084208869.jpgReminderA symbolic reminder as I wait for the shuttle bus to the airport at the stop near the Nordfriedhof in Munich (Oct 2018)2019-05-10T18:44:47+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/11/18/heritage/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/img_20181118_184337_562404762043.jpgHandicraftA carved wall decor at a restaurant in Jaisalmer (Nov 2018)2019-05-10T18:44:21+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/12/02/gadsisar-lake/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/dsc_0784.jpgAbandoned?Under a banyan tree close to the lake, I saw these little clay figurines of Lord Ganesha. I am not sure why they are placed there, but they just seemed abandoned amongst all the other waste. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/dsc_0782.jpgPavilionA close up of another pavilion in the lake...one may reach it with the boat. The details in the stonework are visible here....simply amazing. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/dsc_0781.jpgTilon ka PolThis is the upper part of the gateway to the lake. It is named as Tilon ka Pol. Covered in ornately carved windows...one of them left tantalizingly open as if tempting someone to peek in to the fantastic past of this place (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/dsc_0778.jpgTemplesThe banks of the lake have temples on them - reminding me of the some illustrations from childhood books. I wonder how this looks like in twilight - without electric lights, of course. (Nov 2018).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/dsc_0770.jpgLake GadsisarOne of the pavilions in the lake. A flock of pigeons take flight as if on some mysterious cue known only to their kind. (Nov 2018)2019-05-10T18:43:54+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/12/13/jaisalmer-war-museum/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0814.jpgTales of GloryThe walls of the musuem are covered with the rich history of the Army as well as tales of valour - for example here of Capt. Vikram Batra during the Kargil war of 1999. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0810.jpgRoll of HonourThe roll of honour for the gallant soldiers of the Indian Army at the Jaisalmer War Memorial. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0798.jpgThe HunterA Hunter MK56 aircraft - their hour of glory came in the 1971 battle of Laungewala, where they decimated an entire regiment of ingressing enemy battle tanks near Laungewala. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0789.jpgPrideThere is an undeniable sense of pride when you see the flag of your fathers fluttering high in the wind. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0788.jpgJaisalmer War MuseumThe Jaisalmer War Museum is also known as the Victory Museum (Nov 2018)2019-05-10T18:42:18+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/12/27/sonar-qilla-golden-fort/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0971.jpgLight ShowAnd slowly the whole fort was being lit up, one window and room at a time. That was a spectacle. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0961.jpgTwilightAfter the sunset, as we departed, a look back showed a small light glowing out of a window.... (Nov 2018).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0923.jpgKarma CafeAs a tourist attractions today, the fort shows influences of a different kinds in its cafes (Nov 2018) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0883.jpgModelA scaled down model is on display inside the fort that gives an idea of the size of this massive edifice. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0874.jpgSunsetWatching the sunset from the roof of the royal palace makes you wonder how the city was during its heyday as a important trade center on the ancient Silk Route. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0866.jpgGolden SandstoneThe yellow sandstone is ubiquitous and lends the fort a tawny yellow during the daytime which eventually transforms in to a honey orange in the light of the setting sun. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0861.jpgGolden CityAs the population increased, the inhabitants of the fort started moving out of the fort to the foot of the Trikuta hill and the city of Jaisalmer expanded outwards (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/DSC_0827.jpgSonar QillaThe Sonar Qilla with its 99 bastions is visible from miles away due to its location on a small hill lifting it above the otherwise flat arid terrain (Nov 2018)2019-05-10T18:41:55+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/02/18/peace/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_20190218_002456_560.jpgPeaceLooking forward to spring and to renewal - starting with this small miniature (Feb 2019)2019-05-10T18:40:59+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/02/21/who-needs-social-media/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_20190213_225515_0933479730382201772012.jpgWho Needs Social Media?Re-visiting street art in Shoreditch (Feb 2019)2019-05-10T18:40:33+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/02/24/2811/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_20190213_070408.jpgSunriseSunrise over London (Feb 2019)2019-05-10T18:39:56+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/03/03/no-more-skiing/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_20190303_142214_1277749733365605947052.jpgGarmischThe view of the German Alps from the Hausberg near Garmisch (Mar 2019)2019-05-10T18:39:26+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/10/24/at-the-hellabrunn-zoo/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0901.jpgNo Laughing MatterOn the other side of the enclosure, this gorilla bends just enough to relieve an itch. Looks funny - except when you think this is also a critically endangered species, it doesn't feel like a laughing matter anymore. (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0896.jpgTensionI sensed an underlying tension between these two west African lowland gorillas. The one on the left eating away the leaves on that twig - slowly and purposefully. While the one of the right looks on either waiting for the other one to move over, hand over the twig or whatever it is gorillas do when intimidated. (Oct 2018) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0887.jpgGet Me A BeerThis chimpanzee was the most chilled out of all the denizens of this zoo. I mean, he's probably just waiting for someone to get the beer, now that the day and all that hard work of posturing for the visitors is done. (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0886.jpgMoustached GuenonThis moustached guenon from west Africa stares up at the heavens... while the attention is drawn to its blue face and the white moustache-like band on the upper lip, his eyes give him a very human-like expression. Is it resignation? Or hope? Or just checking out the weather? (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0871.jpgBabyA baby orangutan was busy playing with hay and cardboard boxes... I cannot count how many people were there taking its picture (I was one of them too). Again - high on cuteness quotient, this little fella was probably a rock star for those few minutes (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0841.jpgItchyThis cotton-top tamarin is relieving himself of an itch... an interval of a few milliseconds between the constant scampering around. They are, I believe, the most endearing creatures I saw that day... maybe apart from the rockhopper penguins with their crested eyebrows. (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0832.jpgBetween Two WorldsIn contrast, this ring-tailed lemur seems a bit confused or simply contemplative wondering if it should put its best foot on this side or that side of the divide. There is no right or wrong here, my friend - just go for it. (Oct 2018).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0825.jpgRed Ruffed LemurLemurs always look like they have been scared out of their beds in the middle of the night. This red-ruffed one is no different. Hopping frenetically from one place to other, their whole existence seems to be based on paranoia - which isn't too misplaced given their critically endangered status. (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0820.jpgMr CoolThis siamang, a type of gibbons from the tropical forests of Sumatra, sits there coolly staring back indifferently at the visitors. I do like the hair-do. He's one Mr. Cool for me. (Oct 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0815.jpgAwkwardThat posture looks awkward...probably feels awkward too. Unless you are a knocked out fishing cat from Asia. I suppose they don't have doctors consulting them on healthy postures good for your back and all? (Oct 2018)2019-05-10T18:38:36+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/10/14/jenner/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_07611.jpgGetting "the look"A cow warily watching me as I hover around taking pictures... at one point she got up and I decided to beat a hasty retreat. Never mess with a cow! (Aug 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0743.jpgCloud FormationFrom a distance, it looks like the mountain is spewing out smoke... a volcano about to erupt. Luckily not. (Aug 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/dsc_0791.jpgThe WatzmannThe Watzmann lords over the small town of Berchtesgaden und its surroundings. It is the third highest peak within Germany and it is a sight to behold on clear summer days. (Aug 2018)2019-05-10T18:37:49+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/09/09/jochpass/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/dsc_0820_3.jpgBad HindelangYou can see the road (B308) leading through the town of Bad Hindelang and up in to the mountains. (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/dsc_0822_3.jpgAllgäuer AlpsA view of the Westallgäuer Alps and the town of Bad Oberdorf. The sweeping views of the surroundings is quite breathtaking, (July 2018).2019-05-10T18:37:24+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/09/02/lindau/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0779.jpgLindau HarborThe Bavarian Lion and the lighthouse flanking the entrance of the Lindau harbor. (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0760.jpgFacing the TownA view of the town from the lighthouse. (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0763.jpgFacing the LakeA view of the Lake Constance - from the lighthouse. (July 2018)2019-05-10T18:37:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/08/26/morning-mist/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0818.jpgSunriseThe soft morning sunshine illuminates the tree tops on the banks of the lake. (July 2018).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0815.jpgMorning MistEarly morning mist drifting over the waters of the Waldsee. (July 2018)2019-05-10T18:28:23+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/08/19/waldsee/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0810.jpgWaldseeNight about to fall over the Waldsee close to Lindenberg in Westallgäu (July 2018)2019-05-10T18:27:57+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/08/07/spitzingsee/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0805.jpgSpitzingseeWalking around the Spitzingsee (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0800.jpgSpitzingseeWalking around the Spitzingsee (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0796.jpgThe Village of SpitzingseeA view of the village of Spitzingsee from across the lake. You can also see Jumbo in this picture (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0765.jpgLapping wavesSat here for a few minutes with my feet in the gentle waves lapping the shore. https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0756.jpgGreen and BlueThe green and blue of Nature around you can have a very therapeutic effect on you. (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0750.jpgSpitzingseeA small hut/lodge is nicely tucked away among the trees on the shore of the lake (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0747.jpgSpitzingseeWalking around the Spitzingsee (July 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/dsc_0741.jpgView of the SchlierseeStopped along the way to get this amazing panorama of the Schliersee (July 2018)2019-05-10T18:27:24+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/07/25/kolner-dom/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0932.jpgAchskapelleAnother one is the renovated Achskapelle (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0927.jpgAltar of the City PatronsOne of many artworks - this is the alter of city patrons depicting the Three Kings. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0925.jpgSt. ChristopherA large stone statue of St Christopher looks down upon the visitors. His story of carrying the child across a swollen river was taught to us in 3rd or 4th grade.. :-) (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0916.jpgStained GlassA picture of the stained glass decorations is mandatory given my fascination for these (June 2018).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0901.jpgInside the CathedralThe interiors are equally as immense as the exterior proportions. The mastery and expertise involved in raising such a colossal structure is to be admired in silence. (June 2018).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0890.jpgTwin SpiresViewing the cathedral from the eastern side, you see the twin spires soar above the main entrance to the cathedral. The gigantic proportions become obvious then. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0875.jpgCommemorating World Youth Day 2005Next to the St Peter's fountain is this memorial commemorating the World Youth Day 2005, which took place in Cologne led by the then Pope Benedikt XVI (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0871.jpgView from St. Peters FountainStaring up at the spires from the St. Peters fountain on the south side of the cathedral. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0861.jpgRestorationThe cathedral is said to have suffered 14 hits from aerial bombardment during WWII, but remained standing. It was also the scene os a tank combat in 1945. Restoration of the cathedral continues at the hands of the best stonemasons in the region (June 2018). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0857.jpgSouth EntranceApproaching the cathedral from the southern side, you are immediately confronted with it Gothic architectural details. It is the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe. (June 2018)2019-05-10T18:26:54+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/07/21/marken/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0810.jpgNutshellThis one is for the name of the boat - I think Nutshell is a rather creative name for a yatch. (June 2018).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0805.jpgWar MemorialA WWI memorial on the seafront of the village (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0798.jpgBoathouseA boathouse and what seems like a emergency /rescue services boat docked in the small harbour of the village. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0762.jpgClapboard HousesMost of the houses in the village were like this - painted in dark greens, maroons, or midnight blues. Colourful, but not gaudy. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0757.jpgMain StreetWalking along the main street/boardwalk of the village (June 2018). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0748.jpgClog-making Machine IIOnce the exterior is done, the interior is holed out on another machine... and the basic clog is ready. It took just over 10 minutes for one clog. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0747.jpgClog-making MachineMade from wood of the poplar trees, the exterior of the wooden log is shaved in to the right shape on this machine. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0745.jpgClogsTake the colours away and fancy, flowery designs out, this is what an original clog looks like. I learnt the clogs were used mostly by farmers (worn over thick woollen socks) to work in the fields where it was often damp and cold. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0740.jpgClog WorkshopThis is the entrance to the clog workshop... I actually just liked the giant clot flower pot - if that's what I can call it. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0738.jpgThe Clog TreeA dead tree stump is covered with clogs nailed to it outside the workshop (June 2018)2019-05-10T18:26:21+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/07/15/delft/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0116.jpgCity HallThe city hall on the main plaza in Delft (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0109.jpgJustitiaThe statue of Justitia atop the city hall - the final picture before we settled down to dinner at a restaurant on the square. (June 2018).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0108.jpgRenaissance GloryThe new city hall was built in the Renaissance style by the same architect who worked on the Nieuwe Kerk - Hendrick de Keyser. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0107.jpgEntranceSituated opposite the Nieuwe Kerk (new church) across the main square, the old city hall was destroyed in a fire in 1618 and this was built in its place. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0106.jpgMasterpieceWith the sun going down behind it, it was difficult to capture the regal character of this masterpiece - but one can well imagine it. (June 2018)2019-05-10T18:25:58+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/06/30/leiden/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0098.jpgHortus botanicus XIAt the botanical gardens in Leiden - a dragonfly on a blood-red dahlia (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0077.jpgHortus botanicus XAt the botanical gardens in Leiden - some of the flowers are just so beautiful (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0070.jpgHortus botanicus IXAt the botanical gardens in Leiden - one of the many butterflies inside the greenhouse (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0064.jpgHortus botanicus VIIIAt the botanical gardens in Leiden (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0060.jpgHortus botanicus VIIAt the botanical gardens in Leiden - possibly the largest hibiscus flower I have ever seen (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0059.jpgHortus botanicus VIAt the botanical gardens in Leiden - inside the greenhouse (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0043.jpgHortus botanicus VAt the botanical gardens in Leiden (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0039.jpgHortus botanicus IVAt the botanical gardens in Leiden - not plants, but also some fish to look at (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0035.jpgHortus botanicus IIIAt the botanical gardens in Leiden (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_0034.jpgHortus botanicus IIAt the botanical gardens in Leiden (June 2018)2019-05-10T18:25:26+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/06/24/madurodam/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2254.jpgHorticultureA scene from a horticultural facility - Madurodam (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2232.jpgTrainA freight train makes its rounds through the miniature world of Madurodam (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2220.jpgRacetrackWater is spewed out on the racetrack to simulate the skidding and sliding of a race car (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2215.jpgPeace PalaceA miniature version of the Peace Palace, now the seat of the International Court of Justice in the Hague. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2207.jpgHouses and GardensApart from important monuments, there are regular cityscapes with houses and gardens... the level of details is just as impressive. (June 2018) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2201.jpgRoyal Palace of AmsterdamImportant Dutch landmarks have been created in miniature version - like the Royal Palace of Amsterdam facing the National Monument (a WWII memorial). (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2187.jpgLandscapeThe park is a huge landscape in itself - my first thought of course went to how the vegetation was kept in proportion to the miniature buildings. The effort goes not only in replicating the buildings, but also in arranging and maintaining the plants around them to make a realistic landscape out of it. (June 2018) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2186.jpgBridgeNot just landmarks, but also some elements of Dutch urban and rural landscape - like this bridge opening up to let through a barge on a river or windmills - find a place at Madurodam (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2176.jpgGeorge MaduroThe park is named after George Maduro - a WWII hero, who distinguished himself in repelling the German attack on the Hague in 1940. (June 2018)2019-05-10T18:24:54+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/06/17/kinderdijk/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2119.jpgKinderdijkhttps://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2098.jpgKinderdijkA UNESCO World Heritage site - Kinderdijk has a collection of about 19 windmills. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2087.jpgKinderdijkYou see the windmills dotting the horizon and it makes for a very pretty sight irrespective of the weather - it was raining when we were there. (June 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2083.jpgMuseumWe did not linger too long in the rain. As I turn back, the turning sails of this windmill reminds me, for some inexplicable reason, of the wheel of time. (June 2018)2019-05-10T18:24:29+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/06/16/herzogstand/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2126.jpgBlue Skies AgainAfter the descent, the skies started clearing out again - Murphy's law, I suppose. A last look before heading back to Munich (May 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2099_bw.jpgSerenityAs the rain and hail fell, most of the guests went inside while this lady calmly opened her umbrella and carried on. If you ever needed a picture for the "Keep calm and carry on" message - I named her Serenity (May 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2079.jpgLake & MountainsAnother view of the Walchensee lake with the peaks in the background. (May 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2070.jpgSpot of SunshineAs clouds continued to gather, you could see the rain in the distance and the small valley in the foreground lit up by last bit of sunshine. (May 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2067.jpgWalchenseeThe Walchensee lake below had this almost teal blue color that seemed so surreal on a day like this. (May 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/dsc_2066.jpgStorm's BrewingFirst view from the top of Herzogstand - just 20 minutes back, it was all sunshine and now the clouds look threatening (May 2018)2019-05-10T16:51:38+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/06/08/tea/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/img_20170819_214226104.jpgMint TeaThough prepared differently in different parts of the world, its appreciation is singular and universal. (Aug 2017)2019-05-10T16:46:37+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/04/29/regeneration/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_20180429_184311575.jpgRegenerationA hornbeam sapling in the garden hedge springs back to life - small surprises I see when watering the garden (April 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_20180429_184538826.jpgSaplingA tiny hornbeam sapling grows again after I thought may not have survived the winter (April 2018).2019-05-10T16:46:00+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/04/29/void/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_20180401_171101041_hdr1.jpgIMG_20180401_171101041_HDR2019-05-10T16:45:35+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/04/20/praying-for/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_20180402_1427240391.jpgIMG_20180402_1427240392019-05-10T16:35:52+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/04/16/innsbruck/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/dsc_2110.jpgDSC_2110https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/dsc_2105.jpgDSC_2105https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/dsc_2103.jpgDSC_21032019-05-10T16:34:25+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/04/06/mango/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_20180406_220516843.jpgMangoA celebratory bowl of fresh mango on Dad's birthday (April 2018)2019-05-10T16:30:27+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/04/02/before-sunrise/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/img_20180328_204103352.jpgAfter the SunsetHave you not felt that the time after the sunset and onset of the night is a magical one? (March 2018) 2019-05-10T16:29:51+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/03/23/a-moment-in-heaven/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_20180318_163250471.jpgOn AmmerseeA boathouse on the lake Ammersee. (17.03.2018)2019-05-10T16:28:53+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/03/11/who-am-i/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_20180303_101814077.jpgDividedWater streaks across a stained window of the train (Mar 2018)2019-05-10T16:28:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/03/02/above-the-clouds/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_20180223_171954908_hdr.jpgAbove the CloudsView out of the airplane heading back from London to Frankfurt (Mar 2018)2019-05-10T16:27:43+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/02/17/sweet-flashback/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/img_20170805_141820876.jpgSugarcane JuiceRelishing sugarcane juice - not in India, but at a street market in Bonn. (Aug 2017)2019-05-10T16:27:07+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/11/25/eijsden/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/wp-15116040375222104173123.jpgPiethTrying out the local brew in a nearby bar in Eijsden (Nov 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/dsc_1028.jpgThe Christmas FeelingThough Christmas is about 4 weeks away, the spirit of Christmas is slowly emerging... even on a rainy night, it feels a bit Christmas-sy... (Nov 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/dsc_1009.jpgSt Martin's ChurchAs is my habit in all new towns, a night stroll with the camera is a given. We found ourselves on the central plaza in this small town with the spire of St Martin's church jutting up in to the darkness. (Nov 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/dsc_0998.jpgRed CarA random click of this pretty decoration on the window sill - I kept thinking of how to caption this, but I'll put down here what I feel looking at this picture - warmth, coziness, adventure...just the right things when you are walking through a deserted town at night (Nov 2017) 2019-05-10T16:26:21+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/11/12/marigold-petals/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/dsc_0825-2.jpgMarigold PetalsMarigold petals arranged around an altar for Diwali celebrations in Pune (Oct 2017)2019-05-10T16:25:09+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/11/04/palais-bayram/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170819_101547680_hdr.jpgPalais Bayram - Stained GlassBeauty is in small things - like this solitary stained glass window (if I can call it that)... adds a different, warmer ambience to the otherwise bare whitewashed walls. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170818_163438920_hdr.jpgPalais Bayram - Hammam VentsThere is a hammam in the adjoining property and one can see the steam vents from the window of our room. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170818_163119071.jpgPalais Bayram - Our RoomA view of our room in Palais Bayram (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170819_222940506.jpgPalais Bayram - Main Entrance at NightThis was taken on the last night of our stay - from outside, who would think there is so much of architectural history behind those doors (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170819_102946485_hdr.jpgPalais Bayram - Upper FloorThe upper floor has more of the colourful tiled walls a view to the blue skies... the natural light makes so much of a difference. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170819_102818342_hdr.jpgPalais Bayram - The Secrets WithinA door is left tantalizing open in the inner courtyard (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170819_102719011_hdr.jpgPalais Bayram - ColoursApart from the artwork, the colours of the tiles and the roof adds so much warmth to the building (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170819_102643168_hdr.jpgPalais Bayram - Intricate ArchesBeautifully crafted arches in the courtyard (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/img_20170819_102552947_hdr.jpgPalais Bayram - CourtyardThe inner courtyard of Palais Bayram (Aug 2017)2019-05-10T16:24:33+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/10/07/eckbauer/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/dsc_0435.jpgLight on the GreenComing down late afternoon, the clouds part to let through some sunshine in the distance and the surrounding trees light up with a magical glow. (Jun 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/dsc_0362.jpgHouse on the GreensIf I ever got to choose a place to spend a retreat, I'd take this one - life is probably very harsh in winter and you'd almost need to be a hermit to want this kind of isolation, but... oh, the beauty surrounding you... (June 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/dsc_0354.jpgJust GreenThe view of swirling mists among the green tree-tops immediately bestows one with wondrous tranquility (June 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/dsc_0342.jpgUp the Green MountainView of the foothills as we ascend the Eckbauer (Jun 2017)2019-05-10T16:24:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/10/01/sidi-bou-said/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/dsc_1017_copy.jpgBlue and WhiteWandering through the alleys of Sidi Bou Saïd (Aug 2017)2019-05-10T16:23:34+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/09/20/grand-mosque-of-kairouan/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0704.jpgBrick WallThe mosque was built in the 7th century AD at the founding of the city of Kairouan by the conquering Arab general - therefore the mosque is also known as the Mosque of Uqba. The mud bricks are a testimony to the passage of time and of the mosque's humble beginning (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_06981.jpgArchesThis is a final parting photo before leaving the Grand Mosque of Kairouan - the arches forming layers and adding depth given the angle of the shot. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_06901.jpgPassage of TimeIt was about to be prayer time as I wandered around. The columns remind me of Roman/Byzantine architecture - the fusion of different architectural styles/periods is unmistakable. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0676.jpgPrayer HallAs a non-Muslim, I was not allowed to enter - here's a view from outside of the mihrab (qibla) and the minbar (pulpit) (Aug 2017) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_06621.jpgWorld Heritage SiteThe mosque became a model for all later mosques in the Maghreb and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. (Aug 2017) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_06681.jpgCourtyardThe mosque is shaped as an irregular quadrilateral and covers 9000 sqm. Its marble-paved courtyard is surrounded on four sides by built up galleries gradually built up by successive rulers (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0652.jpgGreat Mosque of KairouanThe 4th holiest mosque in the world - after Mecca, Medina, and Al-Aqsa - is an imposing structure with thick buttressed walls. (Aug 2017)2019-05-10T16:23:06+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/09/13/wilting-palm/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_05341.jpgWilted PalmGiven the overall state of affairs here, the fountain in shape of what looks like a wilted palm tree seems darkly appropriate. (Aug 2017)2019-05-10T16:22:40+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/08/30/slowing-down/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/wp-image-77643520.jpgSouk de KairouanWalking through a deserted souk in Kairouan as most shopkeepers are at the mosque offering prayers. (Aug 2017)2019-05-10T16:21:54+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/08/28/sandcastles/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/wp-image-1012912790.jpgSandcastlesA carefully crafted sandcastle crumbles as the sea comes at it in waves (Aug 2017)2019-05-10T16:21:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/08/27/mamaji/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/dsc_0400.jpgAtop the EckbauerSwirling mist and clouds obscure the peaks of the Bavarian Alps lending it a mystical, enigmatic feel that I love so much (June 2017)2019-05-10T16:19:56+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/05/21/the-taino/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_20170101_144548358.jpgIMG_20170101_144548358I was sufficiently moved to buy this small statue of one of the Taino gods of old - the Dios del Sol (the Sun God). It is a reminder of all that has been almost lost (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_1479.jpgDSC_1479https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_14781.jpgDSC_1478On the other side, there is a small memorial to the Taino people in form of this bust (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_1477.jpgDSC_1477The museum is small, but has a really good collection and the corresponding information is very well displayed. In the middle of the museum is this island with the museum office on one side (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_14761.jpgDSC_14762019-05-10T16:18:39+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/05/01/around-walpertskirchen/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0452.jpgChurch of St. ErhardAt last, you are greeted with the spire of St Erhard and the blue-and-white Maibaum on the central plaza of the town. With that, the trail comes to an end. (April 2017).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0450.jpgWalpertskirchen Fire StationThe last kilometer or so of the trail passes through Walpertskirchen again - passing by the local fire station. (April 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0440.jpgJosefskapelleAs you step out of the woods, you see the small, but well-maintained chapel. There are benches there - I sat there for quite a while. As I looked around me, I asked myself if this is the reason I moved out of the city in to the countryside.... As I mentioned, I was all alone through the trail with a few cars passing by, but, by and large, it was just the wind, the water, and the trees... Nothing else to pierce the curtain of silence around me. I felt content. (April 2017).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0431.jpgGreen ShootsAs you enter the coolness of the woods, light becomes scarce as you are surrounded by giant coniferous trees. Wherver light does peek through, you can see the bright green shoots. (April 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0416.jpgRottmannweiherA few hundred metres away from the little settlement of Rottmann is a larger pond - another reservoir - on the edge of the small wooded area... Here too there is place to sit down and have a small picnic. (April 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0408.jpgNo EntryA random shot this one in Rottmann (April 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0405.jpgBarnsAlong the way to Rottmann, you pass through countless barns, shacks and farmhouses like the one above... They look so... charming, I guess is the best word. Their simplicity is a big contrast to the more modern, renovated houses you will find right next to them. (April 2017).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0397.jpgAn Ad!Passing that tree, you follow the path through some relatively uninteresting terrain - a small cluster of houses and one factory - till you are stopped in your tracks by this brightly colored bicycle telling you where to get a haircut... Well, I might try this one out next time... (April 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0376.jpgMajesticWalking away from the pond, you pass by this perfectly shaped, majestic tree - cannot figure out what it is, but it looks so fine. There is even a log by its trunk where you can sit and have a small break! (April 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/dsc_0371.jpgWildflowersThe ground around the pond is blooming with wildflowers - yellow dandelions, blue bugleweed, and white daisies. (April 2017)2019-05-10T16:14:07+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/04/22/earth-day-2017/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/171.jpgStubaitalSpring in the Stubaital close to Innsbruck in Austria (2008)2019-05-10T16:13:30+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/04/19/the-votivkapelle-on-lake-starnberg/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170409_153100_hdr.jpgThe SpotA simple cross marks the spot where the bodies of the King and his physician were found on 13th June, 1886. (Apr. 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170409_153122_hdr.jpgVotivkapelleThis memorial to King Ludwig II of Bavaria was commissioned by the Prince Regent Luitpold in 1896 - on the 10th anniversary of his death. (Apr. 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170409_153423_hdr.jpgTotenleuchteThis pillar with the lanterns around it (called the "Totenleuchte" in German) were commissioned by the King's mother, Queen Marie, in 1887. (Apr. 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170409_163541_hdr.jpgWavesSpending a few quiet minutes on the shores of the lake ... being entranced by the gentle ebb and flow of the waters. (Apr. 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170409_181651_hdr.jpgThe Votivkapelle Through the TreesA view of the Votivkapelle through the surrounding trees in the evening light of the sun (Apr. 2017)2019-05-10T16:12:56+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/04/01/falkenstein/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170331_165750_hdr.jpgBurg FalkensteinThe first stop was at the ruins of the Falkenstein castle (burg) ... I like this picture... it seemed to partition the view in to two halves: history and time on the right, nature and timelessness on the left. (Mar 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170331_164433_hdr.jpgStartWe started the hike in Königstein... right behind the Kurhaus... already in the woods with the ground covered in patches of green and white. We set out with a plan to get to the Grosser Feldberg (the highest point in the Taunus) by 18:30 and then take a bus down. (Mar 2017) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170331_165821_hdr.jpgTower of Burg FalkensteinOn the tower of the castle seems to have remained intact - the castle was inhabited till the late 18th century but then fell in to disrepair and ruins. (Mar 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170331_183004_hdr.jpgThrough the WoodsWe made our way to Fuchstanz on quite well-marked path... and then a short break later, we decided that continuing on to Grosser Feldberg would be risky given the time of the day. We barely had another hour or so of daylight left. So, we decided to make a detour to Altkönig, which is supposed to have ruins of the ringwalls built by the Celts in 400 BC. (Mar 2017) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170331_183021_hdr.jpgAltkoenigWell - this are the ruins of the Celtic ring-walls at Altkönig. A bit of an anti-climax, quite frankly. I mean, I wasn't expecting a standing wall, but there is nothing here and I failed to spot any information board or anything else. At least, now I know. (Mar 2017) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170331_191005_hdr.jpgDownhillWith daylight fading quite fast, we left the path and headed downhill through the woods... we did have a map, so it was not as reckless as it might appear. The floor was carpeted with pine cones and foliage from these massive evergreens... it felt like I was stepping on cushions... (Mar 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/20170331_195933_hdr.jpgKoenigstein BahnhofWe made it back to the car parked at the Königstein Bahnhof just as the sun finally disappeared from the horizon. To the right is the tower of the Falkenstein castle. It was a good day. (Mar 2017)2019-05-10T16:10:58+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/03/17/on-my-way/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/20170316_064453_hdr.jpgSunrise on A94 near WalpertskirchenSunrise near Walpertskirchen on my way to work (Mar. 2017)2019-05-10T16:10:08+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/02/28/sunset-in-rear-view-mirror/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170226_180836_hdr.jpgIn The Rear View MirrorSunset in the rear view mirror. (Feb 2017)2019-05-10T16:09:06+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/02/21/skiing-in-kitzbuehel/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_111735_hdr.jpgSnow-flecked Trees on the HahnenkammThe first view of the Hahnenkamm from the base of the slope, where we were supposed to take classes. (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_111755_hdr.jpgSkiing for the First TimeI have now finally tried skiing - after having spent 14 years in Germany. (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_112738_hdr.jpgOn The Kids' SlopeHumbling to see feisty 6-year-olds racing down the slopes, while I stumbled around like a clumsy oaf. (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_133438_hdr.jpgCoffee BreakCurious incident at the coffee break - the waiter did not know where the sugar was (probably new), so he got me a brown sugar candy. Rather than have sugar in coffee, I pretty much slurped coffee on this sugar stick. (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_143124_hdr.jpgWhat A Wonderful World!Being the wonderful sunny winter day that it was, I was happy to pay for the ski lift to take me up though I was done with skiing for the day. I was greeted with this beautiful canvas of alpine landscape stretching out till the horizon (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_144001_hdr.jpgWilder KaiserA close-up of one end of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range from top of the Hahnenkamm (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_155542_hdr.jpgHocheckhuetteThe Hocheckhuette on the Hahnenkamm has a lovely terrace, really good beer, and a classy music electronic/ambient collection, I say. Fantastic place to put up your legs towards the end of the afternoon. (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_164436_hdr.jpgPanoramaCapturing the beautiful panorama on the other side as we descended down the slopes around 16.30. (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_164738_hdr.jpgKitzbuehelIts a really bad quality picture, but the only one I have of Kitzbuehel from the top...from the ski lift (Feb 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/20170210_165012_hdr.jpgA Magical DuskOne last view at these majestic mountains as the last rays of the sun kiss them goodbye for the day! (Feb 2017)2019-05-10T16:08:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/02/08/solitude-in-punta-cana/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dsc_04631.jpgSunriseWatching the sunrise in solitude on a deserted beach (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dsc_0470.jpgRolling with the WavesA solitary boat rolling with the waves...waiting for its first passengers. (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dsc_0493.jpgThe Lone TreeA lone palm standing out against the rising sun. (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dsc_05061.jpgSand in my FeetWhat a feeling to stand barefoot in the water...feeling the sand, the water, and the sensation when the sand is being pulled away from beneath my feet... (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dsc_05151.jpgCoinA coin is washed up by the sea and is half-buried in the sand. (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dsc_0713.jpgPicture PerfectA picture perfect view of the deserted beach (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/dsc_1492.jpgMorning LightWhen the soft light of dawn mixes with the turquoise blue of the sea...the effect is simply magical. (Dec. 2016) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/img_20161222_074134735.jpgEmpty ShellA coconut shell filled with sea water finds enough balance to stand upright in the sand (Dec. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/img_20161222_080047311_hdr.jpgSwing, Hammock, and SolitudeShack with a hammock and swing - perfect place to find some solitude by the beach (Dec. 2016)2019-05-10T16:07:51+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/01/23/enroute-to-munich/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/16123966_1238905889491559_5357384893263249408_n1.jpg16123966_1238905889491559_5357384893263249408_n12019-05-10T16:06:50+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/01/21/snow-streaked-trees/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/img_20170117_005853_963.jpgWinter by the RoadsideThe bare snow-streaked trees by the roadside in Munich have a ghostly beauty around them (Jan 2017)2019-05-10T16:06:10+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/12/17/winter-day/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/wp-image-671721460jpg.jpgwp-image-671721460jpg.jpg2019-05-10T16:05:16+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/11/14/weekend-in-idstein-eppstein/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0382.jpgBismarck3rd oct.: That the Kaisertempel (constructed in 1894) is dedicated to the German Unification under Kaiser Wilhelm I, it seemed like a nice, symbolic coincidence that we were visiting this place on the anniversary of the German Reunification day. There are busts of the Chancellor Bismarck and Field Marshal von Moltke flanking the two sides inside the Kaisertempel (i.e. 3rd Oct). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0377.jpgKaisertempel3rd Oct.: And then Tuli insisted on hiking through the hilly slope opposite the Eppstein fort towards the Kaisertempel. After about an hour, we arrived there (originally we wanted to visit the Italian restaurant next to it for lunch, but that had closed down). (Oct. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0365.jpgBettelbub3rd Oct.: At some point the rain stopped and we headed down to the city past the Bettelbub - the cat had disappeared by then. Too bad! (Oct. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0363.jpgBeauty & the Beast3rd Oct.: A picture of contrasts - the soft beauty of the rose against the rocky hardness of the main tower (Oct. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0354.jpgCoat of Arms - Eppstein3rd Oct.: The Eppstein coat of arms on the flag flying atop the tower (Oct. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0350.jpgForests3rd Oct.: Another view of the forests - there are probably criss-crossed with hiking paths. I could just stand there in the cold wind blowing in my face at the top of the tower and watch the autumn colors. (Oct. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0338.jpgAutumn View3rd Oct.: We climbed up the steps of the main tower (Bergfried) to the viewing platform - beautiful forests extended all around from the city on to the nearby hills. You can see the Kaisertempel (the first white building from the right). At this time, I didn't even know what the Kaisertempel was - only later were we to discover the nice coincidence after we went there. (Oct. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0334.jpgPrison3rd Oct.: Inside the "Bettelbub", there is this entrance to the deep cellars, which served as the prison and torture chamber. Can you imagine getting down through that? (Oct. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0332.jpgModel3rd Oct.: A small scale replica of the Eppstein fort. Most of the buildings are gone. (Oct. 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/dsc_0313.jpgInside The Oven3rd Oct.: Partly to escape the rain, we got in to the museum, which had an old Steinofen (brick oven) - this is what a piece bread would see from inside. (Oct. 2016)2019-05-10T16:03:51+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/09/27/into-the-light/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dsc_30711.jpgInto The LightHeading from the depths of the forest towards an open glade - close to Freundenburg (Aug. 2016)2019-05-10T16:02:16+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/09/25/hitting-the-trail-with-dobby/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dsc_3241.jpgCooling DownOn the way down, we passed by a small pool and Dobby promptly splashed in without a second thought. That must have felt really good (Sep 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dsc_3213.jpgTaking a BreatherAt the top, Dobby just plomped down and didn't move for about exactly 3 minutes and 27 seconds. Then he was back bounding around and exploring. (Sep 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dsc_3147.jpgView from StaufenA view of Frankfurt through the afternoon haze from Staufen (Sep 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dsc_3138.jpgBursting With EnergyOnce in to the woods, Dobby was let off the leash and he kept bounding around - mostly in circles - God knows what he was looking for. (Sep 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dsc_3115.jpgWaitingWhen we had gone a bit too far, he would just sit down on the trail and wait for us slowpokes. (Sep 2016)2019-05-10T16:00:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/08/23/trab-e/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/13628438_1151427078257249_1747632063_n.jpgTrab-ETrabant..or Trabi as its fondly called.. This is actually a Trab-e - a modified electric version of this charming old model... Spotted on my way to work a couple of days back! (Aug 2016)2019-05-10T15:57:42+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/08/08/overnight-to-italy/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/20160721_132411_hdr.jpgFamily!Meeting my nephews in Rome - that was priceless and made the end of that leg of travel so much more special (Jul 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/20160721_073916_hdr.jpgTuscanyWhen I woke up, we were speeding through the sun-drenched Tuscan countryside...some really wonderful views I got... which makes me want to travel by train again... (Jul 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/20160721_072326_hdr.jpgBreakfastThe breakfast on the train was an unexpected bonus (I wasn't aware they served one) (Jul 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/20160720_222247_hdr.jpgMunich to RomaI went off to sleep somewhere close to Woergl in Austria - that's the last pic before nodding off (Jul 2016)2019-05-10T15:57:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/07/19/angel/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/13694705_1730516457173164_988385686_n.jpg13694705_1730516457173164_988385686_n2019-05-10T15:55:30+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/07/17/in-the-chachagua-rainforest/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2816.jpgSparkling WhiteThese buds are just about to bloom. In the the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2597.jpgOut For LunchInstead of waiting for lunch, this little guy know where to look for it and heads out there. In the the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2588.jpgLunch TimeThis arachnid awaits its meal after the rain. In the the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2575.jpgFreshThe "freshness" one feel after the rain in the tropics is uncomparable.... it gets cooler, the earth smells, and the rain washes away every thing...as if Nature has just got a thorough scrubbing ... :-) Like these leaves. In the the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2570.jpgBright ColoursI was told that many flowers have bright colours in the rainforest to stand out in the dense green foliage and attract insects to help with pollination. In the the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2409.jpgTaking ShelterTaking shelter from the rain. In the the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2300.jpgExotic FlowersThe variety of flora is amazing...and beautiful. In the the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2288.jpgAfter The RainHeavy with raindrops .... in the the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016)2019-05-10T15:54:34+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/07/16/bug-eat-bug/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/dsc_2800-1.jpgBug Eat Bug WorldSeeing this little bug at the top holding a dragonfly by its tail was a surprise find during a hike through the Chachagua rainforest in Costa Rica (Feb 2016)2019-05-10T15:53:08+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/06/22/the-crooked-path/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/dsc_0171.jpgThe Crooked PathReflecting the words of Thoreau, I can only feel reverance for the majestic mountains as I wander along these curved and crooked paths (Oct. 2015)2019-05-10T15:51:48+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/05/27/our-new-neighbourhood/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dsc_3043.jpgSunset in TaunusThe sun setting behind the Taunus - the observation station at Große Feldberg is silhouetted against it. (May 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dsc_3010.jpgNear HorizonWith the fields curving upwards gently, the horizon seems so near. (May 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dsc_3005.jpgTracks In The FieldsThe fields bear the track marks of farming vehicles criss-crossing them (May 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dsc_2998.jpgGrazing GroundsThe the left of the fence are the grazing grounds for horses - there is a equestrian school near by, so one comes across many horses grazing around. (May 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dsc_2997.jpgThe CityInstead of being in the city, now we look at it from afar. (May 2016)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dsc_2987.jpgThe Lone TreeThe lone tree and fields in the background highlighting the simplicity of our new neighbourhood. (May 2016)2019-05-10T15:48:33+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/05/18/bartholdis-boy-drinking-water/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/12724717_1600022730308739_987836188_n.jpg12724717_1600022730308739_987836188_n2019-05-10T15:46:53+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/04/04/hochfelln/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/dsc_0197-2.jpgHochfellnHiking up the Hochfelln in Berchtesgaden (southern Germany) on a cloudy day - the countryside opens up in front of me as we climb higher. At some point, we are standing right below the cloud cover and can see the Chiemsee in the distance lit up by some weak sunshine. (Oct. 2015)2019-05-10T15:45:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/31/meeting-lennon/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/12912317_1593170927671084_2021838612_n.jpgLennon In San JoseMeeting John Lennon in San Jose (Costa Rica) (Feb 2016)2019-05-10T15:43:45+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/28/arenal/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/dsc_2375_1.jpgLake ArenalView of the man-made lake Arenal from the observation point on the slopes of the volcano Arenal in Costa Rica (Feb 2016)2019-05-10T15:42:56+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/23/vineyards-in-kientzheim-alsace/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/917446_169609806757422_1727216152_n.jpgVineyards in Kientzheim2019-05-10T15:42:16+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/22/the-snake-charmers/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/imag0149.jpgSnake CharmersSnake charmers close to the City Palace in Jaipur. (Dec. 2012)2019-05-10T15:41:30+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/21/slow_dance/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/dsc_2172.jpgGiant Fish in a Slow DanceThese jets moving around like giant fish in a gentle, slow dance. (Feb 2016)2019-05-10T15:40:51+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/16/the-giant-candle/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/20160219_172849_hdr.jpgThe Giant CandleThe sun dips behind the air traffic control tower at the Charlotte airport in US (Feb. 2016)2019-05-10T15:37:58+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/14/all-that-we-do/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/dsc_0378.jpgFor Love.Believe it or not - this is what he's doing on streets of Prague so that he can afford an engagement ring. (Oct. 2014)2019-05-10T15:36:57+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/10/no-28/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/dsc_0018.jpgNo. 28House No. 28 on the main street of Kientzheim (Aug. 2015)2019-05-10T15:35:58+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/08/a-memory-of-warmth-light/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/20151231_165244.jpgRuby RedA small distraction during a year-end visit to Vapiano in Frankfurt for lunch on New Year's Eve (Dec. 2015)2019-05-10T15:35:34+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/03/05/harmony/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/dsc_28601.jpgHarmonyIt only lasts a few seconds, a couple of minutes - but when one looks at it, one feels the need for nothing more. For those few seconds, I feel liberated. (Mar. 2016)2019-05-10T15:34:17+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/02/09/suburban-sunset/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/20160207_173428_hdr.jpgSuburban SunsetThe new home on the outskirts of Frankfurt is surrounded by construction sites, but for now we can still see the hills of the Taunus in the distance from the living room. Now that there will be a garden, I am hoping to enjoy many more days, when the dusk paints the sky with breathtaking colours. (Feb. 2016)2019-05-10T15:29:48+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/02/07/time-the-grand-canyon/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/dsc_0780.jpgGrand CanyonArt sculpted by Time using the forces of Nature, (Mar. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/dsc_0760-1.jpgThe ColoradoThe Colorado flowing through the Grand Canyon (Mar. 2014)2019-05-10T15:28:43+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/02/04/the-white-sun/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/dsc_0914.jpgThe White SunWatching the sun having shed off all its colours on a foggy Monday morning on the train to Munich (Oct. 2015) 2019-05-10T15:26:29+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/02/01/lights-in-the-dark/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_1909.jpgWarmth and ShelterA lone light burning in the dark amidst a snow-covered landscape in the Rhon. (Jan. 2016)2019-05-10T15:25:07+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/01/31/at-the-temple-fair/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_1819.jpgAt The Temple FairThis shop is teeming with colour - from the sarees hanging in the background to the marigold garlands laid out in the foreground. The vibrancy of this is accentuated with the woman's smile, though it is the end of a very long day for her, I am sure. (Oct. 2015)2019-05-10T15:23:28+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/01/28/rising-above/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_0233.jpgCircling The SkiesAn alpine chough circling the skies above the Obersalzberg. (Oct. 2015)2019-05-10T15:18:35+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/01/17/quiet-sunday/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_0002-1.jpgA Quiet SundayBeen a really long time since there was a quiet Sunday spent working on things whirling through my mind - fuelled with endless cups of tea. (July 2015)2019-05-10T15:16:24+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/01/12/the-white-castle/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/20151009_210026.jpgNeuschwansteinFrom Jul. 20152019-05-05T06:23:46+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/01/11/the-alpine-choughs/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_0238.jpgView of KoenigsseeSunlight reflected off the tip of Koenigssee in the Berchtesgadener Land. Equally inspiring landscape! (Oct. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_0237.jpgIcarusThis one seemingly flying towards the sun - like the mythological Icarushttps://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_0236.jpgSoaring UpWhat a sight it is to see the birds glide over the peaks and crags of the Bavarian Alps! (Oct. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_0235.jpgThe DuoThese two were locked in some aerial acrobatic competition...whirling and twirling through the sky. (Oct. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_0232.jpgThe Alpine ChoughSoaring above in the clear, blue sky above the mountains and the lakes. (Oct. 2015)2019-05-05T06:22:52+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/01/03/circle-in-the-desert/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/dsc_0271.jpgCircle In The DesertHard to miss this very geometrically planned settlement from the air as the plane departed Abu Dhabi enroute to Munich. (Oct. 2015)2019-05-05T06:22:27+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2016/01/01/happy-new-year-welcome-2016/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/20151228_163359_hdr.jpgFrankfurt Through A WindowLooking out at the Frankfurt skyline - the essence of a city captured in one window frame (Dec. 2015)2019-05-05T06:21:37+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/12/21/celebration/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/20151119_231202_hdr.jpgCelebrationCelebratory drinks seemed to be in the focus on this table at a club in Munich (Nov. 2015)2019-05-05T06:21:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/12/14/shimmering-lights/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/20151113_191210_hdr.jpgRow of LightsA row of tea lights - a substitute for oil lamps - at a Diwali celebration (Nov. 2015)2019-05-05T06:20:32+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/12/11/foggy-nights/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/dsc_00261.jpgFoggy NightsFoggy nights in Frankfurt ... 'tis the season for hot tea, blankets, and books. I do love winter. (Nov. 2015)2019-05-05T06:19:45+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/12/08/travel-across-the-universe/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/20151120_002404_hdr.jpgTravel Across The UniverseA kind reminder at the Helene in Munich (Nov 2015)2019-05-05T06:19:25+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/11/18/the-dome-of-the-rock/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0665.jpgComplete PictureThe complete picture with the Dome of the Rock (on the left), the Wailing Wall (center) and the Al Aqsa Mosque (on the right) (Dec 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0797.jpgEntry BarredEntry is barred to people from other religions other than Islam, which I think is a pity (though not unusual). (Dec. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0783.jpgOrnate ArtworkAs with all the mosques we have seen, the art adorning the walls of the Dome is beautiful and very ornate. (Dec. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0761.jpgHoly SiteThe Dome of the Rock is holy to both Islam and Judaism. Security is tight - controlled by Israel, but the site is administered by a religious body based in Jordan (Dec 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0660.jpgFrom The Western WallDome of the Rock from the Western Wall courtyard (Dec 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0552.jpgThe Dome of the RockA view of the Dome of the Rock from the Phasaelus Tower in David's Citadel in Jerusalem. (Dec 2012)2019-05-05T06:18:48+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/11/10/asamkirche/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0194.jpgKeys to HeavenSt Peter in the Asamkirche (Aug 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0192.jpgAsamkirche IIAnother view of the interiors of the church. (Aug 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0191.jpgMors Pecatorum Pessima"Death of the sinners is very bad" - or so I am told. (Aug 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0193.jpgAsamkirche IThe church was built from 1733 to 1746 by the brothers Egid Quirin Asam and Cosmas Damian Asam as their private church. The interiors are richly decorated and very ornate. (Aug 2014)2019-05-05T06:18:28+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/11/04/winter-reading-list/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dsc_0219.jpgEnd Of The Year Reading ListAll set for cold days curled up under a blanket with tea and a good book. (Oct 2015)2019-05-05T06:18:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/10/25/walking-the-tightrope/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/dsc_0437.jpgWalking The TightropeFather & daughter trying out the tightrope on a fine summer day in a garden in Bergen (May 2013) 2019-05-05T06:17:20+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/10/15/kehlsteinhaus/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/dsc_0192.jpgView of the KoenigsseeA view of the northern tip of the Königssee surrounded by the peaks of the Bavarian Alps. (Oct. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/dsc_0179.jpgThe KehlsteinhausA view of the Kehlsteinhaus (to the left) with the alpine panorama in the background - one breathtaking view! (Oct. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/dsc_0174.jpgTunnelThe tunnel leading to the elevator, which brings you up to the Kehlsteinhaus - possibly in the footsteps of soldiers, generals and the Führer himself! (Oct. 2015)2019-05-05T06:16:57+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/10/04/autumns-here/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/dsc_0279.jpgAutumn's here...This tree's aflame with the colours of autumn - near Obersalzberg/Kehlstein. (Oct. 2015)2019-05-04T18:55:37+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/09/30/the-gift/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/dsc_0082.jpgA Bit of Green on the Desk2019-05-04T18:43:59+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/09/21/ganapati-bappa-morya/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/dsc_1650.jpgGanapatiThis little idol of Ganapati adorning the altar at home. (Sep 2015)2019-05-04T18:43:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/09/08/connecting/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0985.jpgConnection... and then the little boy walks up to the enclosure with a smile and tries to match the gesture - attempting to connect. (Mar. 2015)2019-05-04T18:42:06+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/09/02/dying-fire/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/dsc_04871.jpgSpanish SunsetWatching the sunset from the marina in Barcelona - the sky filled with the light of a dying fire. (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T18:41:29+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/08/27/a-good-day/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/imag0919.jpgThe ShrinePassed by a shrine in a cave up in the cliff before descending in to Mittenwald. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/imag0906.jpgThe WaterfallEvery now and then, there is a small waterfall to make things more interesting along the way. (May 2015).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/imag0896.jpgThe Winding WayThe path winding through the countryside with the mountains in the background - very picturesque. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/imag0889.jpgAlong The FallgrabenHiking back to Mittenwald along a merrily gurgling stream - believe its called Fallgraben. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/imag0873.jpgThe ChapelA look at the small chapel near the lake. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/dsc_1374.jpgThe KarwendelThe peaks of the Karwendel range in the background. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/dsc_1368.jpgFifty Shades of GreenThe differently shaded green vegetation around the lake is reflected off the waters and makes for a special effect. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/dsc_1365.jpgFirst View of the LauterseeFirst View of the Lautersee (May 2015)2019-05-04T18:41:06+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/08/22/blue-eyed-beauty/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/dsc_0010.jpgBlue-eyed FelineI don't think I've ever seen a prettier, more striking eyes than those of this beautiful feline. (Aug. 2015)2019-05-04T18:40:44+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/08/20/the-street-lamp-in-prague/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/dsc_03871.jpgThe Street Lamp In PragueFollowing my fetish for fancy street lamps, this one in Prague stands out - in all its crowning glory, so to speak. (Oct. 2014)2019-05-04T16:41:47+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/08/12/daydreaming/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/imag0866.jpgDaydreamingIt would be nice to be there now - view from the Lautersee Alm (May 2015)2019-05-04T16:41:09+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/08/10/history-beneath-my-feet/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/dsc_0471.jpgByzantine MosaicsAt the Shepherds Fields enroute to Bethlehem. (Dec. 2012)2019-05-04T16:40:08+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/08/03/miss_jumbo/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/dsc_0409.jpgA Stop With A ViewWhen I come across memories - like this one from a drive through Switzerland, I miss having Jumbo with me in Munich. (May 2014)2019-05-04T16:39:41+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/07/19/two-halves/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/imag1042.jpgDivided by HalfA yatch heading back to the harbour of Monte Carlo (April 2013)2019-05-04T16:38:57+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/07/14/retreat/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/dsc_1361.jpgLonging For A HolidayView of the Karwendelgebirge from Lautersee (May 2015) 2019-05-04T16:38:36+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/06/30/ferchensee/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/imag0850.jpgHiking Through The WoodsHiking through the woods towards Ferchensee. (May 2015) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/imag0848.jpgShrineMemorials or shrines like these dot the hiking trail. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1325.jpgThe ReflectionThe reflection in the still waters of the lake creating a special effect. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1318.jpgMountains By The LakeThe first view of the Ferchensee surrounded by the woods and peaks. (May 2015) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1310.jpgThe RivuletA small rivulet flowing towards the lake...wandering through the countryside. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1320.jpgThe ShackA lonely shack on the Ferchensee. (May 2015)2019-05-04T16:38:11+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/06/25/frankfurt-in-bw-part-ii/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0188.jpgBronze LadyOne of the figures at the base of Goethe's statue on Goetheplatz (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_00221.jpgJustitiaJustitia or the Lady of Justice in front of the Roemer - the city hall. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0178.jpgJohann Wolfgang von GoetheOne of the most famous sons of the city - Johann Wolfgang von Goethehttps://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0104.jpgDavidThe figure of David in the David & Goliath sculpture on the Hauptwache (may 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0076.jpgLocks on the Eiserner StegLocks on the Eiserner Steg. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0032.jpgRathaus & CommerzbankA view of the Rathaus & the Commerzbank Tower from the Minerva Brunnen on the Roemer. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/imag0531.jpgOld Rail WagonAn old wagon near the Osthafen (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/imag0511.jpgThe SkylineThe skyline of the city of Frankfurt (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0944_bw.jpgSeufzerbrückeThe Seufzerbrücke (Bridge of Sighs) near the city hall - with the two towers. The tall one is the Langer Franz and the shorter one is the Kleiner Cohen. (May 2015)2019-05-04T16:37:00+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/06/13/fra-in-bw-part-i/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0064.jpgFountain In The KurfürstenplatzThe fountain in the Kurfürstenplatz in the west of Frankfurt - it was on the way from the metro stop and my old place of work in Frankfurt.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/imag0513.jpgThe European Central BankThe new ECB building in the east of Frankfurt. https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0945_bw.jpgCafe HauptwacheA central landmark - the Cafe Hauptwache in the city center. https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0941_bw.jpgView from the Eiserner StegA view from the Eiserner Steg (an old footbridge over the Main). The old towers of St. Leonhard's church with the modern skyscrapers of the financial district in the background.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0870_bw.jpgAlte Oper (Old Opera House)Alte Oper (Old Opera House) in Frankfurt2019-05-04T16:35:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/06/11/frankfurt-hbf/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/imag1017-effects.jpgFrankfurt HauptbahnhofWalking by the Frankfurt main railway station the other day and it felt like I had never seen it like this - ever before. (June 2015) 2019-05-04T16:34:34+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/06/07/familia-sagrada/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0592.jpgThe Stained Glass In Familia SagradaSome examples of the stained glass in the Familia Sagrada. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0540.jpgThe Stained Glass In Familia SagradaSome examples of the stained glass in the Familia Sagrada. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0536.jpgThe Stained Glass In Familia SagradaSome examples of the stained glass in the Familia Sagrada. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0532.jpgThe Stained Glass In Familia SagradaSome examples of the stained glass in the Familia Sagrada. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0526.jpgLight EffectsWe were there in the afternoon and the December sun filtering through the stained glass of the western Passion façade and covering the interiors with multi-hued light. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0480.jpgPassion Façade (from inside)The Passion façade (from inside) - the western side is covered with the fiery red, orange stained glass amplifying the blaze of the setting sun. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0472.jpgCanopy Of The Forest... and branching in to each other to form the roof. The impression is that of walking under the canopy of a forest. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0471.jpgInspired By NatureDrawing inspiration from Nature, the pillars are designed to resemble the trees rising high...https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0467.jpgNativity Façade (from inside)And here's the Nativity façade from inside - the eastern side is covered with the cooling, soothing primarily blue and green stained glass conveying the freshness of new life. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_0451.jpg(Western) Passion FaçadeThe western or the Passion façade, facing the direction of the setting sun, is about the crucifixion of Christ. (May 2014)2019-05-04T16:34:09+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/06/04/luftlmalereien/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1288.jpgMurals in Mittenwald - Hotel AlpenroseThe hotel Alpenrose in the Obermarkt (main street) of Mittenwald (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1263.jpgMurals in Mittenwald - The Violin MuseumA different perspective of the violin museum in Mittenwald. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1262.jpgMurals in Mittenwald - the Violin MuseumMurals in Mittenwald - the Violin Museum(May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1257.jpgMurals in MittenwaldMurals in Mittenwald. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1250.jpgMurals in Mittenwald - Cafe Zur KaffeemühleMurals in Mittenwald - Cafe Zur Kaffeemühle (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1249.jpgMurals in Mittenwald - the Gästehaus im GriesMurals in Mittenwald - the Gästehaus im Gries. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1248.jpgMurals in MittenwaldMurals in Mittenwald. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/dsc_1240.jpgMurals in MittenwaldMurals in Mittenwald. (May 2015)2019-05-04T16:33:53+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/05/31/seligenstadt/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/imag0997.jpgLoveseat By The RiverA "loveseat" carved out of a block of wood on our way back to Frankfurt along the river Main (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/imag0981.jpgIn SeligenstadtWe finally reached Seligenstadt, where I saw this half-timbered house at a street corner - with my imagination, it seemed to me as if someone cut through the house with a gigantic knife and removed the right half to make space for the street. (May 2015).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/imag0967.jpgIn To The OpenEmerging from the forest trail, it was refreshing to feel the wind in the face and be in the open with nothing really blocking the view till the horizon. (May 2015).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/imag0964.jpgRed Flower In A Sea of Green.. and in the fields stretching out till the horizon, one would see a single red flower stand out with its colour. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/imag0955.jpgInto The FieldsThe sky clouded a bit as we stopped in midst of the fields right outside Heusenstamm for a lunch of packed sandwiches - the fields seem to be a cover of green velvet (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/imag0953.jpgThrough The StadtwaldFrom the Goetheturm, we followed the trail through the Stadtwald towards Heusenstamm. (May 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/imag0949.jpgGoethe TurmFrom Frankfurt, we started in Sachsenhausen and cycled towards Goetheturm (Goethe Tower), one of the old watchtowers in the woods to the south. (May 2015) 2019-05-04T16:33:26+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/05/27/bench-scottsdale/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0436.jpgBrokenBroken is not necessarily useless - it just could mean transformation - like this bench made from parts of an old carriage in Scottsdale, Arizona. (Mar. 2014)2019-05-04T16:33:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/05/22/the-krautwachtershausel/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0438.jpgKrautwächtershäuselThe Krautwächtershäusel on the Krauthügelwiese in Salzburg, Austria (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T16:32:34+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/05/18/and-life-goes-on/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_1351.jpgMoss & MushroomsMoss and fungus enveloping a tree stump on a hiking trail close to Ferchensee. (May 2015)2019-05-04T16:32:13+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/05/10/wilderness-solitude-on-the-naeroyfjord/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0221.jpgFlamThe cruise ended in Flam - the surroundings again providing a fitting end to the cruise. (May 2013)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0197.jpgBoathousesA row of pretty boathouses on the fjord. (May 2013)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0155.jpgSpot The Sheep?The white flecks in the center are sheep grazing on the mountainside. (May 2013)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0114.jpgTwin PeaksThere is very little left to say... the rest of the trip is punctuated more with the clicks of the camera than with words. (May 2013). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0086.jpgIsolationEvery now and then along the way, one comes across a solitary farmhouse... From down here, it is difficult to see how one can reach it. But in the old days, the owners would drop down rope ladders down the cliff, if they wished to meet their visitors. The sense of isolation is difficult to escape. (May 2013). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0053.jpgAt Odd & Even AnglesOne finds trees and vegetation growing at all odd and even angles along the slopes of the cliffs. (May 2013)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0048.jpgExpanseThe sky and fjord stretching out all the way to the horizon - sense of being confronted with the dominance of Nature - one of the pre-requisites to make a human feel totally insignificant. (May 2013)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_0021.jpgThe Fury Of WaterImagine trying to make a stand against this onslaught of water as it comes raging down! Talking about the force of Nature! (May 2013) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_08741.jpgCivilizationThere are few signs of settlements around the fjord and seems very sparsely populated. We passed by a only a couple of villages along the fjord with their pretty, clapboard structures... here is one of the oldest churches on the fjord. (May 2013)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/dsc_02371.jpgGudvangenThe cruise on the Naeroyfjord starts in Gudvangen. The surroundings here already give you an idea of what to expect. (May 2013)2019-05-04T16:31:53+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/05/07/a-little-flower/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/imag08431.jpgA Little FlowerA little flower poking its blue head through the fallen leaves and loam on the hiking trail from Mittenwald to Ferchensee (May 2015)2019-05-04T16:31:27+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/05/05/after-the-rain/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1018.jpgAfter The Rain In The Swiss AlpsSunlight breaking through the clouds after the rain - somewhere between Vaduz and Como. (June 2013)2019-05-04T16:30:49+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/05/02/never-the-same/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0789.jpgFrankfurt SunsetFrankfurt skyline in the dying light of the day – taken from the train arriving from Munich as it crossed the bridge near the Osthafen (24 April 2015)2019-05-04T16:21:50+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/04/27/own-world/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_0771.jpgMotionA little girl smiling and talking animatedly to herself - a contrast to the hustle and bustle of an airport. In Barcelona (Dec. 2014) 2019-05-04T16:20:52+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/04/23/casa-batllo/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1196.jpgSaints & DragonsFinally on the roof - the front facade with its curved roof and the cross. One common interpretation: the curved roof is similar to the back of the dragon. with the cross being the sword of St. George piercing it - looks more like cloves of garlic. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1185.jpgThe AtticThe last stretch of the tour took us to the attic. Here the narrow thin arches made the narrow passage look bigger or taller than it was. The slitted walls, the arches, and the whitewashed walls made the attic look like a fun place - so unlike what attics are usually made out to be. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1176.jpg3 Shades of BlueThis shot from top shows the different shades of blue in the light well - darker colors at the top, lighter shades at the bottom. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1168.jpgLightwellThe two lightwells in the Casa Batllo are covered with blue glazed tiles -- lighter ones at the bottom (where less light was available) and darker ones at the top. You cannot make that out in this photo since I'm clicking against the light.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1158.jpgMosaic WallThe other end of the terrace, opposite the entrance, has a wall partially covered in mosaic, which reminded of flowers sprouting out of concrete. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1151.jpgNo Corners, Just CurvesThe room again has no corners as such.. just curved walls with a doorway in them. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1147.jpgMosaic On The TerraceThe terrace has some really colourful mosaic art like this one forming a pool outside on the terrace - on either side of the entrance to the terrace. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1144.jpgSealife or Wet Dreams?The ceiling in the room with the terrace. There seems no agreement on how to interpret this... is this another feature reflecting the nature of the seas or whether this was more an expression of Gaudi's sense of eroticism? No kidding - that is what the audio guide said. So, another big huh?!! (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1121.jpgEddies On The CeilingThe main inspiration for the Casa Batllo is said to be the sea and sealife. The walls and ceilings have a mosiac-like pattern which actually looks like scales (in a way). The ceiling of the main hall facing the Passeig de Gracia seems to resemble an eddy in the seas with its swirling design. A view also of the irregularly shaped doors & windows with stained glass in the main hall. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1112.jpgStained Glass WindowsThe stained glass on the windows in the main hall (on the first floor) changes colour with the intensity of the light falling on it. Again the designs on the stained glass, the colour of the glass, and the curved shape of the windows is all meant to remind one of the sea. (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T16:19:50+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/04/19/winter-sunrise/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_0904-1.jpgWinter SunriseThe sunrise on 23/02/2015 - seen from the train. somewhere between Nuremberg and Ingolstadt (Feb. 2015)2019-05-04T16:19:10+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/04/14/afloat/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/dsc_1070.jpgSeaplaneA seaplane afloat and idling on lake Como (June 2013)2019-05-04T16:18:06+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/04/12/tale-two-rivers-cochem/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0662.jpgThe Reichsburg - IAs we got closer, the structure seemed more and more imposing. It commanded a 360° view of the area crowning the hilltop as it did. There is a fresco of St. Christopher carrying the child Christ on his shoulders on the main tower of the castle - though I do not get the background or the symbolism there. (April 2015).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0669.jpgReaching The Gates of the ReichsburgAnother 15 minutes of walking and we reached the gates of the Reichsburg. The initials L.R. at the top of the entrance possibly stand for Louis Ravenne, the Berlin businessman, who bought the castle and restored it in the late 19th century. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0665.jpgThe Reichsburg - IIBuilt in the 12th century, the castle was overrun and destroyed in 1688 by the French troops of King Louis XIV during the war of the Palatine Succession. It was eventually bought and rebuilt by a Berlin businessman in the late 19th century. (April 2015).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0699.jpgRathaus & The City ChurchThe building to the left is the Ratskeller and in the middle is the tower of the town church, as seen from the main market plaza of Cochem. (April 2015).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag07011.jpgCochemFollowing the road, up and down the hills, back and forth across the river, I kept making wrong turns...distracted as I was with the landscape around me. So, 30 minutes eventually took an hour till we reached the town of Cochem... Beginning in 1298 (though the town is much older), Cochem and its castle were held by the Archbishops of Trier, which is reflected in its coat of arms here. The cross on the left side is part of Trier's coat of arms and the hand with two keys is a symbol of St Peter, the patron saint of Trier. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0679.jpgThe SentinelEven in bright sunshine, I wouldn't want to see the face under the helmet of this lone stone sentinel, if its arms were any indication. We made our way back down to the town via another alternate route and window-shopped a bit in the narrow streets and alleys of the old town. It was late in the afternoon, so we had some lunch, sampled some more wine ... and then started our drive back to Frankfurt. (April 2015).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0676.jpgFrom The Cafe TerraceWe did not take a tour of the castle itself. There was a crowd up there (Sunday, beautiful weather, Spring, etc.) and it would have taken longer than we would have liked. So we browsed through the gift shop, where Tuli stopped me from buying swords, knives, Gothic paintings, and a beautiful bronze statue of Freya (that I won't forget!). All I came out with was an English guide about the castles along the Mosel. Not much of a consolation there. (April 2015).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0654.jpgHalfway-Down-There ViewFrom that same place, you could also look up to get a view the imposing Reichsburg. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0651.jpgThe Halfway-Up-There ViewIt wasn't a long walk - about 20 minutes - but halfway up there, we had a chance to take in this panorama. The clouds dappled the hills with their shadows, which made for a very pretty view over the town and its surroundings. The building in the center is the Capuchin monastery and its attached old age home. The large tower to the right is that of the town church (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0639.jpgSt Martin's FountainWe parked the car and walked through the town. We had a coffee and cake break at a cafe in the town center and then made our way to the Reichsburg Cochem (the Imperial Castle of Cochem). On the way we passed the fountain of St Martin in the main town plaza - all decorated for Easter. (April 2015).2019-05-04T16:17:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/04/13/tale-two-rivers-lorelei/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0724.jpgIn A Final BlazeThat was the final highlight of the weekend...starting with the Mosel, ending on the Rhine with this fine spectacle of Nature and a legend to remember. (April 2015). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0721.jpgThe LoreleiA statue of the siren, Lorelei - made famous by the poem of Heinrich Heine - on the Rhine (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0710.jpgSunset on the RhineFrom the Loreleyfelsen, we watched the sun setting on the Rhine valley... The silhouette on the right is of the Burg Katz (Castle Katz) standing tall over the town of St Goarshausen. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0707.jpgLoreleyfelsen (The Cliff of Lorelei)Stuff of the legends... the evening sun sheds its last rays on the cliffs upon which the sailors, entranced by the singing of Lorelei, rammed their ships...the Rhine devouring the boat and the men. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0705.jpgSt Goar on the RhineA view of the town of St Goar on the Rhine (April 2015)2019-05-04T16:17:07+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/04/11/tale-two-rivers-traben-trarbach/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0606.jpgDinnerWe had dinner at the restaurant itself... starting with the best onion soup I've had in a very long time...with cheese. Followed by some potato gratin (graciously offered by the landlady as a vegetarian option) and some house wine. (April 2015). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0593.jpgBargeA barge carrying what seemed like a cargo of coal down the Mosel with the village on Traben in the background. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0608.jpgGood NightIt was a full moon (or close to a full moon). I was tempted to open some beer and go for one of my night time strolls... But it was too cold to step out and I was a bit tired too... So, said hello to the moon from the balcony itself and called it a night... (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0605.jpgWar MemorialThe rest of the walk back to Wolf was uneventful... listening to music as we made our way back. Noticed this memorial to the war dead from the Great Wars right behind our inn. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0600.jpgThe White HouseOn the way back this charming white house by the road side looked just so pretty sitting there amongst all those trees. The picture seems a contrast as if tempting the traveller to choose comfort (house) over adventure (the road stretching ahead). Well...that was a bit of a random musing, I guess... (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0592.jpgBrückentor (Bridge Gate)The bridge was completed in 1898 and the gate on it (called the Brückentor) was built in 1899 by the Berlin architect Bruno Möhring. It now houses a cafe-restaurant and an art gallery. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0585.jpgCastle GrevenburgAs we started crossing the bridge from Traben back in to Trarbach, the evening sun was nearing the horizon on the west ... its rays lighting up the ruins of the castle Grevenburg. Built in 1350, it was the seat of the Counts of Sponheim, It was destroyed by the French in 1734 after a three week siege. On the western wall of the former keep stands tall in defiance of time. (April 2015) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0581.jpgOhne Fleiss, Kein PreisAfter a round of wine, we got back on to the streets... time to head back before twilight sets in and before it gets colder. Passed by this building showing the horse of Traben with banners below proclaiming "Ohne Fleiss kein Preis" (roughly translated as "No pain, no gain"). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0579.jpgPretty Belle of TrabenOne look at the statue of this anonymous lady and you can tell what this region is famous for. The horse below is part of the town's coat of arms. (April 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/imag0568.jpgRed, Red WineThe first place (Alte Zunftscheune) we tried to get a table was fully reserved - that's what we were told by a very curt waitress... the next one (Moselstübchen) was more welcoming! My hypothesis is that I should never enter a restaurant to ask for a table... people look at my bearded face and see red! In the Moselstübchen, it was my lady companions who did the honours and it worked! The Mosel is actually famous for its white wines - but white wine gives me a headache, so I stuck to the local reds. What a wonderful feeling it is to step in from the cold and then sit there in a quiet, cozy little country pub sipping on some wine! Good friends, good wine, good times! (April 2015)2019-05-04T16:14:39+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/30/opel-zoo/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_1001.jpgThe AcrobatFrom one end to the other and back again, this gibbon wouldn't stop swinging... it was in it's element. (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_1030.jpgThe Mafia BossAchieve the most with minimum effort - this bugger could get a job done with the smallest nod. It was standing in that spot for five full minutes, while I bent this way and that to peer in to its eyes... When it finally, slowly looked in my direction, I am almost willing to think that there was a knowing smile playing lightly on that face. (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_1013.jpgThe MadmanThis blue ostrich was one aggressive fella ... with that pronounced devilish, half-crazed look in its eyes, it kept snapping at the chicken wire fence separating us. To be fair, this is not a place for an ostrich either... (Mar. 2015) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0987.jpgThe PhilosopherIt was touching to see this Barbary Macaque sitting there inside the glass enclosure...almost philosophical in the way that hand is placed on the glass... (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0976.jpgThe ShowmanThis African elephant stood right across the electric fence and kept stretching out its trunk or opening its massive jaws to get apples and carrots from the visitors... It reminded me of a showman with it's beauty mud-pack still visible on its forehead! (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_1040.jpgThe WisecracksThese two Dromedary camels remind me of Mr. Thomson & Mr. Thompson from Tintin comics. (Mar. 2015) 2019-05-04T16:13:31+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/29/ephemeral/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0934.jpgEphemeralThe world reflected off a perfect soap bubble - seconds before bursting in to nothingness. (July 2014)2019-05-04T16:13:10+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/27/grund/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0489.jpgFrozenRight around this dried out bush (this was my signpost), there is a staircase that takes you up to a narrow street right next to my hotel. You have arrived at your destination! On the last day, I took a picture of this bush... dried out and in focus of a white spotlight, the bush gave an impression of being frozen - like a deer in the light of a car's headlamps... Funny comparison, I confess.. (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0488.jpgThe ParkWalking another 15 minutes down the same path, you see patches of white ambient lighting illuminating parts of the park....the light and shadow play creating some really fanciful effects... (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0485.jpgThe WallThat is where the buildings end and the park begins - the green, picturesque part of the Grund. Starting from the parking lot, there is this "wall" that runs above you as you walk through the park along the Alzette (which is at this point a really small canal you can jump over). Above this "wall" is the modern Luxembourg...it is all up there... (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0478.jpgMontee Du GrundA road sign in the Grund - a historic quarter in the city of Luxembourg (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0476.jpgOld QuarterYou follow the cobblestoned path through the old quarter - quite deserted at night - till you hit a paved road, continue walking down till you reach a parking lot.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0475.jpgWalking Along the AlzetteYou don't cross the bridge. Instead you get down another staircase and continue walking a few metres along the same side of the Alzette as before till you reach a cobblestoned path leading in to the old quarter. You won't come across that many people in this part ... someone taking a dog for a walk or a late night jogger... that's about it. (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0471.jpgSpiral Staircase...climb the spiral staircase to come to the top of the bridge. (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0470.jpgUp The TowerAt the base of the bridge, there is a wooden walkway that leads to a small arch... you step under the arch, turn left under another arch, and ... (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0468.jpgThe Old Bridge... till you come to the old bridge over the Alzette. (Mar. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0466.jpgFortificationsStepping out of the office, you see the old ruins of the fortifications on my right...and you walk alongside it for a while... (Mar. 2015)2019-05-04T16:12:09+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/25/shadows-at-30000-ft/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/imag0248.jpgCapturing Shadows at 30000ft Above Sea LevelOn the flight to Barcelona..capturing shadows 30000 ft. above sea level (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T16:10:55+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/22/the-garden-island-of-mainau/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0138_scaled.jpgMorning BudThe tender bud sees the new day begin with dew drops. Doesn't shedding some dew drops of our own make us feel alive? (Sep. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0135_scaled.jpgWhite & CrimsonWhite & Crimson: from the garden on island of Mainau (Sep. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0130_scaled.jpgShades of PinkShades of Pink: from the garden on island of Mainau (Sep. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0127_scaled.jpgShades of RedShades of Red: from the garden on island of Mainau (Sep. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0121_scaled.jpgOrangeOrange: from the garden on island of Mainau (Sep. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0118_scaled.jpgPink & YellowPink & Yellow: from the garden on island of Mainau (Sep. 2012)2019-05-04T16:10:26+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/20/solar-eclipse-20-03-2015/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0506.jpgFancy Viewing GlassesThese really cool looking special viewing glasses were lent to us by the company I work for. (20th March, 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/partial-solar-eclipse.jpgPartial Solar Eclipse - 20.03.2015A partial solar eclipse as seen from Munich on 20.03.2015 (Photo Credit: this wonderful picture was taken by my colleague Thorwald Petersen)2019-05-04T16:09:46+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/17/invictus/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0909.jpgSunrise From The TrainCaptured from the train between Wuerzburg and Nuremberg on the way to Munich. (Feb 2015) 2019-05-04T16:09:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/15/fuerstenzug/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0686.jpgIMAG0686The picture on it indicates where this piece fit on the original dome. (July 2012) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0685.jpgMemorial of the FirestormA piece of the destroyed dome of the Frauenkirche is kept in the square as a memorial. (July 2012) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0659.jpgThe Fürstenzug & The FrauenkircheThe Fürstenzug is about 102 metres in length and displays the ancestral portraits of the 35 margraves, electors, dukes and kings of the House of Wettin between 1127 and 1904. The dome of the famous Frauenkirche is seen in the background. (July 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0658.jpgThe Fürstenzug of DresdenThe Fürstenzug (Procession of Princes) is a large mural of a mounted procession of the rulers of Saxony belonging to the Wettin dynasty. Originally painted between 1871 and 1876, it was then replaced by 23000 Meissen porcelain tiles in 1904-1907 to make it the largest porcelain artwork in the world. (July 2012). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0653.jpgFrauenkirche of DresdenThe Frauenkirche in Dresden - destroyed in WWII bombing of the city, the remaining ruins were left as a war memorial, following decisions of local East German leaders. The church was rebuilt after the reunification of Germany. (July 2012)2019-05-04T16:08:18+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/12/scaling-gates/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/imag0461.jpgShoesMy shoes with the scuff marks as a result of climbing over gates in the middle of the night. (Mar. 2015)2019-05-04T16:07:54+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/08/wpc-orange/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0632.jpgOrange In The BasilicaA statue, doubling as a candle holder, on one of the pillars of the basilica of St. Vitus in Prague. (Oct. 2014). https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0530.jpgOrange In The ParkAutumn colouring the crowns of the tree with oranges and reds in the park in Prague castle premises (Oct. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0503.jpgOrange In The GardenThoughtful garden gnome with his orange pumpkins in the garden of our hotel in Prague. (Oct. 2014) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0481.jpgOrange In The MetroOrange in a metro in Prague (Oct. 2014)2019-05-04T16:06:45+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/03/03/home-where/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dsc_0047.jpgFrankfurtFrankfurt (Jun. 2014) 2019-05-04T16:05:43+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/25/breaking-through/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0275.jpgA Bit of SunshineSunshine breaking through the clouds - on the drive back from Gudvangen to Bergen (May 2013).2019-05-04T16:04:48+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/21/wpc-rule-thirds/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0573.jpgLandingA pigeon landed next to the lookout balcony on the side of the Familia Sagrada in Barcelona. (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T16:04:15+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/19/prague-castle-night/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0410.jpgPrague Castle & Charles BridgeA view of the castle and a section of the famous Charles' Bridge in Prague (Oct. 2014)2019-05-04T16:03:44+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/14/wpc-symmetry/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_01301.jpgBy The LakeOn the lake near Hopfen am See, near Neuschwanstein. (Dec. 2013)2019-05-04T16:01:52+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/14/and-if-you-didnt-exist/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0193.jpgPainting The Sky RedAn exceptionally beautiful sunset captured in Wilderswil, Switzerland. As if the Sky would let the Earth know - "...If you didn't exist, tell me for whom I should exist?" (May 2014)2019-05-04T16:01:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/13/happy-thoughts/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_1048.jpgThe BuddhaAt a booth in Fair Handeln 2014 in Stuttgart (April 2014)2019-05-04T16:00:27+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/09/jantar-mantar/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/imag0208_1.jpgSamrat YantraThe giant sundial, also know as the Samrat Yantra, in Jantar Mantar complex in Jaipur. (Dec. 2011)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/imag0184.jpgSeen from the Royal PalaceThe top part of the sundial (to the left) seen from the rooftop of the royal palace in Jaipur. (Dec. 2011)2019-05-04T15:59:57+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/07/cuckoo-clock/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_2226_1.jpgCuckoo ClockBelieve it or not - that is a cuckoo clock. The world's largest (at least in 2010) in Schonach, Black Forest. (Oct. 2010)2019-05-04T15:59:34+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/05/love-on-paper/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/imag0399.jpgDistractedDoodling at work... I was distracted. (Feb. 2015)2019-05-04T15:58:27+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/03/basilica-santa-maria-del-mar/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0652.jpgIn the Basilica of Santa Maria del MarI was soon inside the basilica of Santa Maria del Mar - considered a masterpiece of the simple Catalan Gothic architecture. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0777.jpgEastern GateA look at the eastern entrance of the basilica, as I made my way away from it... the light shining over the door reminding me not to give up hope!https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0771.jpgFossar de les MoreresA memorial to those fallen in the defence of Barcelona in the siege of 1713-14. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0758.jpgCover of the BookI remember the tympanum (over the western entrance) from the cover of the book. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0748.jpgThe Basilica of Santa Maria del MarThe western facade of the basilica of Santa Maria del Mar will greet you as you come to the Plaça de Santa Maria. The narrow streets made it difficult to capture the full front facade in a frame - at least with my camera. (Dec. 2014) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0648.jpgSimplicityCompared to the other Gothic places of worship, this basilica seems very simple. And its columns are probably the slenderest stone columns I have seen. (Dec. 2014) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0645.jpgRose WindowThe new Rose window at the western end of the basilica was completed in 1459. The old one was destroyed in an earthquake. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0644.jpgSpaciousThe spacing of the columns is the widest of any Gothic church in Europe—about forty-three feet apart, center to center. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0643.jpgSanta Maria del MarThe basilica of Santa Maria del Mar was built through contributions of major guilds of the city. Including the merchants, seamen, and poor porters working in the harbour, who carried stones for the basilica from Montjuic to the site - as a service for free. Therefore the little ship there. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0641.jpgThe Vaulted CeilingAs I walked in I looked up at the ribbed vault with its keystone and something came over me. Do you know how it feels to have a wish granted without having to ask for it? (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T15:57:08+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/02/01/wpc-depth/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/dsc_0833.jpgNaeroyfjordNaeroyfjord in Norway (May 2013)2019-05-04T15:56:45+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/29/winter-dawn/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/imag0369.jpgWinter Dawn...and then it was an early start at work again the next day. The landscape looking so different at dawn...simply...so...beautiful! (Jan. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/imag03451.jpgLate Night At WorkIt was snowing through the day and when I stepped out after a particularly late night at work, I was just greeted with this carpet of snow... (Jan. 2015)2019-05-04T15:56:20+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/26/the-common-man/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/r-k-laxman-rip.jpgR.I.P, R.K. Laxman!https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/republicday2014.jpgIndian TricolourAt the Republic Day ceremony at the Indian consulate in Frankfurt. This picture is from last year - this year I was on the train from Frankfurt to Munich. (Jan. 2014)2019-05-04T15:55:03+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/25/wpc-express-yourself/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0795.jpgWhy?A painting in the Mercat del Born in Barcelona. (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T15:54:20+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/22/qantab-beach/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/imag03241.jpgRocky IslandA lone eroded rocky formation a bit out in to the sea on the Qantab beach. (Jan. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/imag03251.jpgQantab BeachIdling boats on the Qantab beach in Muscat, Oman. (Jan. 2012)2019-05-04T15:53:25+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/19/thought-of-you/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/imag0317.jpgA Thought Of You...Standing there in the rain, this graffiti seen on the Ludwigsbrücke in Munich made me smile. (Jan. 2015) 2019-05-04T15:53:00+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/17/wpc-serenity/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/imag0315.jpgSerenitySitting with a steaming cup of tea in hand, feet up on the table, eyes raised to the sky as they followed the snowflakes floating down to the ground. (Jan. 2015)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/imag0314.jpgSnow In The BackyardA light snowfall in Munich on Saturday (17.01.) morning. (Jan. 2015) 2019-05-04T15:52:32+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/16/sipping-nectar/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0508.jpgSipping NectarIn the royal gardens of the Prague castle. (Oct. 2014)2019-05-04T15:51:26+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/12/wpc-shadowed/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0596.jpgLight and ShadowsOn the drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon (March 2014)2019-05-04T15:50:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/11/golden-halls-salzburg/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0532.jpgCeiling of the Golden HallThe ceiling of the Golden Hall is painted in blue with golden rivets. As the daylight comes in through the windows on the left, you see the difference in the colour of the roof on the left and right side of the main beam. At night, it was meant to resemble the midnight sky with stars. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0531.jpgThe Midnight SkyThis is probably evident in this dark corner of the hall - if you look up at the ceiling with its golden rivets shining in the scant light. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0527.jpgCoat of ArmsThe coat of arms (in the center) of the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg has a turnip on it - legend has it that the uncle of the Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach once hit him on the head with a turnip to "get some sense" in to him. https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0523.jpgGolden RosettesUnlike in the Golden Hall where the ceilings had simple rivet, the Golden Chamber has golden rosettes on its ceiling - in line with the more ornate decoration of the chamber. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0521.jpgThe Golden ChamberThe Golden Chamber - the private rooms of the Prince-Archbishops - are more ornately decorated in the Gothic style, but keeping the same combination of dark blue walls and ceilings overlaid with gold-covered work. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0520.jpgArtworkIt isn't difficult to make out how intricate and detailed the work is. And not much imagine to imagine how the room would look like in dimmed light or in candlelight (the spotlights installed everywhere there seemed like a bad idea for a moment). (Dec. 2014) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0515.jpgThe DoorwaysThe doors were actually quite low - you had to bend to get in and out - wondering whether it was on purpose. It is not uncommon to have low doorways in religious places that forced people to bend down while entering - a symbolic sign of submission to the higher authority. Nothing was mentioned in the audio guide - I am just guessing this to be a possible reason. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0510.jpgOn Walls of the Golden ChamberThe upper 3/4th part of the blue walls of the Golden Chamber are decorated with Gothic designs coloured in gold to be highlighted in the flickering candlelight at night. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0503.jpgThe Maiolica StoveThe Maiolica stove, dating from 1501, in the Golden Chamber with its Gothic-inspired design. (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T15:49:10+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/07/wandering-streets-barcelona/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_03492.jpgTapasA tapas place named after Antoni Gaudi - still too early for crowds to turn up for dinner. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0360.jpgOn Carrer de la BoqueriaNot sure how minutes I spent staring at this building...craning my neck, straining my eyes to take in what I thought was a really beautiful front for an old building. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_1063.jpgBlooming in DecemberThere is something surreal for me to see a citrus tree with fruit hanging from it and red flowers around its base - in December. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_1043.jpgIsland FountainAn island fountain on the way to the Casa Batllo. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_1014.jpgOn RentRental bike stand opposite the Palau de la Musica. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_1007.jpgLone MusicianA lone musician playing at the closed Mercat de Santa Catarina. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0940.jpgEmpty StreetsThe streets of the old city are quite empty on Christmas day - or we were out too early. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0933.jpgMasterpiece in TurquoiseA Royal Enfield in an unusual turquoise - don't dare call it a bike! Its a beauty! (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0897.jpgStrands of LightMulti-coloured garlands of light giving Placa Reial not just a festive, but also a bit of a Tron-like look. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0868.jpgStained GlassWith its maze of streets, the Gothic quarter is a fascinating place to walk... a peek in to one of the by-lanes can reveal something wondrous - like this stained glass window. (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T15:45:23+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/04/wpc-new/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_05741.jpgSunset In The AlpsEnjoying the beautiful alpine vista in Austria with the sun approaching the horizon and about to set. (Dec. 2014) 2019-05-04T15:42:24+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2015/01/01/journey-goes-on-2015/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dsc_0206.jpgAnd The Journey Goes OnView of the Mediterranean and the port of Barcelona from Montjuïc - a flight about to land in Barcelona (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T15:41:09+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/25/merry-christmas-2/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0830_1.jpgChristmas Eve On The BeachIn Barcelona this Christmas Eve, I spent the evening on the beach. (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T15:40:43+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/23/salzburg/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0682.jpgOne Last LookI bought some chocolates, had some coffee and cake..figured it would be a good time to head back to the railway station. I decided to walk and took one final look at this beautiful city from the Makart Steg. Till we meet again! (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0634.jpgBirthplace of MozartBefore heading off to the railway station, I wanted to see this yellow building - Getreidegasse 9 - the birthplace of the Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_06141.jpgLooking Out For StarsThe city was all lit up for Christmas with giant stars hanging over the street. The festive spirit just takes hold of the time (figuratively shown in this photo) and it is hard not to feel a part of it - whenever, wherever, whatever one may be doing. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0604.jpgChristmas Market At The DomDescending from the fortress I wandered through the city and landed at the glittering Christmas Market in front of the Dom. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0565.jpgIn The Evening SunHohensalzburg as seen on the path to Richterhöhe - tinged with the colour of the pale wintry evening sun. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0504.jpgGolden ChamberThe Golden Chamber is by far the most beautiful room in Hohensalzburg with its intricate, secular, Gothic gold work on the ceilings and on the walls. I will have to write a separate post on this. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0500.jpgGolden HallThe Golden Hall and the adjoining Golden Chamber is the highlight of the royal residences. The Golden Hall is a large room with wooden walls. The ceiling is coloured in a shade of twilight blue and studded with golden rosettes. This was meant to give the impression of a starry sky. Without the odd fire alarm sticking out, it does not take a mighty leap of imagination to see how this would really look like in those days..in the flickering candlelight. (Dec. 2014).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0453.jpgRichterhöheWalking around the ramparts, I could see the towers of Richterhöhe - earlier a separate outpost, it was later integrated into the defenses of the Hohensalzburg. (Dec. 2014) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0430.jpgChapel of St GeorgeBefore entering the Höher Stock to view the royal apartments, I stopped by briefly to visit the chapel of St. George built right next to it. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0427.jpgSalzburgA view of the Salzburg city from the Reckturm (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T15:39:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/22/wpc-yellow/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0517.jpgThe Yellow StaircaseI find bright colours in a metro stop always cool, especially on those grey, wintry days. Like the yellow staircase of the Notre-Dame metro stop in Paris. (May 2014)2019-05-04T15:38:38+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/17/goodbye-my-friend/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0063-1.jpgWhen Spring Returns...I'll see you again when Spring arrives, the flowers bloom and I will undoubtedly see your smile in everything around me. (Nov. 2014)2019-05-04T15:38:09+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/14/wpc-twinkle/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_06771.jpgLove Amidst StarsWhat I did not see from afar are the thousands of "love-locks" secured to the sides of the bridges amidst all the LEDs - one might truly ask - where there is love, there is light? (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_06741.jpgShining Bright Like DiamondsAnd so it is - I came to capture the twinkling stars, but found thousands of declarations of love amidst them. (Dec. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_06731.jpgMakart Steg Across The SalzachThe Makart Steg (bridge) in Salzburg was lit up with thousands of LEDs for Christmas (Dec. 2014)2019-05-04T15:36:54+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/12/return-home/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0184_burst002.jpgMerry ChristmasFinally close to home - after 90 minutes of carefree wandering in this beautiful city. All that remains to be said - merry Christmas to y'all! (Dec. 12, 2014/03:32)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0181.jpgCrossing The IsarCrossed the Isar over the Zweibrücken near Deutsches Museum. The picture came out so bad, but I thought I'd try to rescue it by turning it in to a B&W photo and adding some effects. I actually spent 5 minutes looking at the flickering reflections and the "water passing under the bridge", in the manner of speaking. (Dec. 12, 2014/03:26) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0172.jpgIsartorSuddenly aware of time, I consulted my phone again for directions and set off towards home... thought about taking a taxi, but it just seemed like such a pleasant walk through the silent city. I find cities at night irresistibly intriguing, mysterious - even tempting in a way. Como, Lisbon, Paris, Jerusalem, Frankfurt, Munich ... a midnight (or post-midnight) saunter never felt like a waste of time. Reaching Isartor I was distracted enough to start taking pictures again. (Dec. 12, 2014/03:14)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0160.jpgCity of Bicycles II... with bicycles parked all over the town to prove it. If you've kept track of the timestamp on the photos - I was wandering for about 54 minutes till this photo was taken. (Dec. 12, 2014/03:04)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0157.jpgCity of Bicycles INever thought drawing a bicycle could be so easy and the sign is kinda hard to miss - I think München is more cyclist-friendly... (Dec. 12, 2014/03:02)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0155_burst001.jpgOvercoming PestilenceAnd this putto here is busy overcoming pestilence symbolized by a rooster. Though not included in the photo series, the fourth putto is determined to wipe out heresy symbolized by a serpent - again talking about symbolism in different cultures. (Dec. 12, 2014/03:01)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0152.jpgEnding FamineThis putto is fighting a dragon symbolizing famine - though I don't how a dragon symbolizes famine - unless you are Smaug burning everything around you. Its always fascinating how the same creature can symbolize two extremes in different cultures...I am sure the East Asians would disagree with this symbolism. (Dec. 12, 2014/03:00)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0150.jpgFighting For PeaceAt the four corners of the Mariensaüle, there are four "putti" (sing. "putto") - each fighting a different beast - each symbolizing a different adversity this city has faced. This one is fighting a lion - symbolizing war. (Source: Wikipedia) (Dec. 12, 2014/02:59)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0146.jpgOn MarienplatzDown the Maffeistrasse, then right on the Weinstrasse and lo! I was in familiar territory - Marienplatz with its Mariensaüle. The Christmas market only a shadow of all the partying that must have happened earlier in the evening. (Dec. 12, 2014/02:57)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/imag0134.jpgBack On TrackTaking a break from taking pictures, I finally used my smartphone to check where I was, re-orient myself and soon found myself back on track - in this case, a bit literally - on the Maffeistrasse, methinks (Dec. 12, 2014/02:49)2019-05-04T15:35:38+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/07/wpc-gone-not-forgotten/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/033.jpgThe Blue BabyMy first car in Germany - nicknamed the Blue Baby for its beautiful turquoise blue coat - pictured during a memorable road trip in to the mountains of Tirol. (May 2008).2019-05-04T15:35:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/03/atop-eiffel/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0645.jpgThe Basilica of Sacre CoeurA view from atop the Eiffel Tower of the Basilica of Sacre Coeur on the Montmartre (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0630.jpgBird's Eye ViewThe size of Paris become evident from the top of the Eiffel Tower - more than 2.3 million inhabitants over 105 sq km. (Source: Wikipedia) (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0614.jpgCrossing the SeineA metro crossing the Seine over the Pont d'Alma (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0602.jpgOld & NewThe modern high-rises in the background somehow seemed out of place in such a historic city. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0579.jpgDSC_0579https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0578.jpgLes InvalidesLes Invalides as seen from the Eiffel Tower (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0574.jpgMontmartreThe Basilica of Sacre Coeur rising amidst the Montmartre district - as seen from the Eiffel Tower (May 2014)2019-05-04T15:34:17+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/12/01/wpc-converge/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_08842.jpgAll Meet The Same EndAll streams and falls join the fjord and meet the same end. (May 2013)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dsc_0151.jpgConvergingOne of the thousand waterfalls bringing meltwater to the Naeroyfjord (May 2013)2019-05-04T15:33:53+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/25/nizwa-fort/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/imag03541.jpgMinaret of The Nizwa Fort MosqueThe minaret of the fort mosque - the elegance standing out against the stark, dry landscape in the background. (Jan. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/imag0365.jpgThe Resident CatOne of the feline residents of the Nizwa fort - the watchfulness in its eyes would make it suitable for the night watch. (Jan. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/imag0362.jpgModel FortA model of the entire Nizwa fort and its surroundings. (Jan. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/imag0357.jpgFort CannonOne of the many bronze cannons placed atop the fort tower around its periphery. (Jan. 2012) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/imag0352.jpgRampartsLooking at the natural defenses from behind the man-made ones on top of the Nizwa fort. (Jan. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/imag0345.jpgThe TowerThe main defensive tower within the Nizwa fort - hardly any windows in that structure. (Jan. 2012)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/imag0341.jpgThe Souk at the Nizwa FortThe souk at the entrance to the Nizwa fort. (Jan. 2012)2019-05-04T15:33:05+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/22/wpc-angular/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_0648.jpgAn Angular View of the Eiffel TowerAn angular view of the Eiffel Tower from the bottom (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_0640.jpgConvergenceA view from the bottom as the main beams converged at the top. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_0628.jpgThe Lightning RodThe lightning rod atop the Eiffel Tower. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_0570.jpgMetal ArtThe arch of the base displays a somewhat artistic sensibilities of an engineer. (May 2014)2019-05-04T15:30:40+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/20/town-by-the-lake/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_0460.jpgLungern on LungernerseeLungern on the Lungernersee - a stop on the drive from Munich to Grindelwald (May 2014)2019-05-04T15:29:51+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/18/english_garden/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_0259.jpgFlowing through the English GardenThe Isar flowing under the hanging trees through the English Garden (Oct. 2014)2019-05-04T12:23:54+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/16/wpc-achievement/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_0788.jpgFor This One MomentThe Grand Canyon - Endless. Timeless. Priceless. (March 2014) 2019-05-04T12:20:13+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/09/wpc-minimalist/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_1087.jpgLearning To FlyLearning to fly -- at an art installation in Villa Olmo on Lake Como, Italy (June 2013)2019-05-04T12:19:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/06/fall-guenthersburg-park/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/imag0004.jpgFall in Guenthersburg ParkWith a carpet of yellowed leaves at their feet, these trees seem to let Nature take its course so calmly. (Nov. 2014)2019-05-04T12:18:02+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/05/neues-rathaus-on-marienplatz/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_00211.jpgMarienplatz at NightThe tower of the Neues Rathaus on Marienplatz at night (Oct. 2014)2019-05-04T12:10:40+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/11/02/wpc-descent/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/dsc_0832.jpgOld Town Bazaar of JerusalemEntering the old town bazaars of Jerusalem - descending in to delightfully colourful, chaotic, world ... (November 2012)2019-05-04T12:10:18+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/31/lions-feldherrnhalle/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_01081.jpgLucky LionNeed some good luck? Rub the muzzle of this lion and its three other companions at the entrance and the exit of the residenz. If you hang around, you'll see quite a few Münchners instinctively reaching out and giving the nose a slight rub. Supposed to bring good luck! No wonder it shines so bright! (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_00892.jpgThe Growling, Defiant Lion... while the other one faces the Residenz and has its jaws open in a low growl.... (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_00861.jpgThe Silent, Respectful LionOf the two lions flanking the staircase leading to the loggia, this one faces the Theatinerkirche and has its jaws shut... (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_00821.jpgThe Feldherrnhalle on OdeonsplatzThe Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshals' Hall) in Munich on the Odeonsplatz was built at the behest of King Ludwig I of Bavaria in honour of his Bavarian army (Sep. 2014)2019-05-04T12:06:43+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/29/autumn-is-pumpkin-time/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0030.jpgAutumn Is Pumpkin TimeOdd and even shaped pumpkins at a pumpkin farm near Lake Constance, Germany (Sep. 2012)2019-05-04T12:06:20+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/27/run-run-run/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0098-2.jpgThe MedalsHolding Kasturi's and my medals in the evening. The tangible memory of a day spent well. Of my first run. (Oct. 26, 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0096.jpgMy Running NumberMy running number - 1022C (Oct. 26, 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0095.jpgBorrowed ShoesAfter forgetting my running shoes in Munich, I started the race using friend's son's old shoes - I was lucky. It saved my day. (Oct. 26, 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0087.jpgFesthalle - Pre-marathon PartyThe Festhalle was all decked up when we went to collect our running numbers - light, sound, cheerleaders, dancing troupes... it had it all (Oct. 25, 2014) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_3072.jpgRun! Run! Run!Finishing together is the awesomeness of the day. (Oct. 26, 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_3062.jpgRelay Team 1022My relay team - Paritosh, Kasturi, Karthik, and Anjali - running the last metres to the finish line together (Oct. 26, 2014) Photo credit: Nancy Morthalahttps://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/img_2928.jpgTeam Asha 2014Team Asha 2014 - a team photo before the run (Oct. 26, 2014) Photo Credit: Nancy Morthala2019-05-04T12:05:55+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/20/please-donate-my-first-run-for-education/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/team-asha-betterplace.jpgFundraising for Concern for HumanityRunning the 2014 Frankfurt Marathon to raise funds for the Concern for Humanity project in Delhi (October 2014)2019-05-04T12:03:55+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/13/wpc-dreamy/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0730.jpgJohn LennonThat black and white sketch of John Lennon is probably the best portrait of him on the Wall. (October 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0716.jpgBut I'm Not The Only One.They say I'm a dreamer. But I am not the only one... Another dreamer was here too. (October 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0708.jpgEveryday's Another Chance"Everyday's Another Chance!" - At the Lennon Wall in Prague (October 2014)2019-05-04T12:03:31+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/10/chai-munich/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0093_5.jpgTea in MunichFirst Tea and biscuits in the Munich apartment - the cup is a gift from a dear friend & ex-colleague (October 2014)2019-05-04T12:03:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/09/missing-dad/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_00071.jpgThinking of DadReminded of Dad whilst playing crossword inflight from Munich to Mumbai (October 2014)2019-05-04T12:01:51+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/06/wpc-signs/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/imag0037.jpgWork Is Our Only Religion"Shram hi hain, Sri Ram hamara" (in red bold, Devanagari font) - a sign seen in Anandwan. Translated as "Work is our only Religion". Disillusioned or defiant? (April 2011)2019-05-04T12:01:00+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/09/25/impressions-munich-siegestor/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0044.jpgA Modern MessageA later inscription on the back of the monument reads: "Dedicated to Victory. Destroyed by War. Reminder of Peace". (Sep. 2014).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0042.jpgThe Arch of the SiegestorArtwork under the arch of the Siegestor (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0034.jpgLions Instead of SteedsThe Bavarian Lion is heraldic charge of the House of Wittelsbach, the ruling family of the Bavarian monarchy. Therefore, you will see quite a few lions in the art and architecture in and around Munich. (Sep. 2014).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0033.jpgOnwards to OdeonsplatzThrough the Siegestor, the avenue leads up straight to the Odeonsplatz with its Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshals' Hall) (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0030.jpgBavaria Atop Siegestor Bavaria atop the Siegestor in Munich. It was commissioned by King Ludwig I of Bavaria, designed by Friedrich von Gärtner and completed by Eduard Mezger in 1852. The inscription dedicates this monument to the Bavarian army (Sep. 2014)2019-05-04T12:00:08+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/10/02/first-impressions-munich-theatinerkirche/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_01061.jpgCoat of Arms of the Wittelsbach FamilyThe Coat of Arms of the House of Wittelsbach in the Theatinerkirche (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0105.jpgIntricate DetailsSome of the artwork in the Theatinerkirche is very intricate. Though I am not a religious person, the intricate artwork does make me wonder. (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0104.jpgInteriors of the TheatinerkircheThe high-set windows and the elaborate designs along the pillars high above lend the church a very lofty, elegant character. (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0102.jpgThe Dome Above The AltarThe church was built in Italian high Baroque style, inspired by Sant' Andrea della Valle in Rome, designed by the Italian architect Agostino Barelli. (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0071.jpgTower of the TheatinerkircheBuilt from 1663 to 1690, it was founded by Elector Ferdinand Maria and his wife, Henriette Adelaide of Savoy, as a gesture of thanks for the birth of the long-awaited heir to the Bavarian crown, Prince Max Emanuel, in 1662. (Sep. 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/dsc_0070.jpgTheatinerkirche Under RenovationThe Theatinerkirche on Odeonsplatz is currently under renovation (Sep. 2014)2019-05-04T11:59:55+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/09/26/wpc-nighttime/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0029_4.jpgThe TV TowerThe TV Tower of Frankfurt appearing suspended in the night sky. (Frankfurt, June 2014)2019-05-04T11:59:32+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/09/15/wpc-humanity/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0836.jpgContradictions of HumanityAt the Jerusalem Central Bus Station (December 2012) 2019-05-04T11:58:13+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/09/09/old-friend-new-city/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/img_20140908_231706.jpgOld Friends in a New CityMandar and Sofia in Munich (September 8th, 2014)2019-05-04T11:56:35+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/09/08/adventure-kalakosh/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_1075.jpgMulticoloured ScarvesScarves and stoles are very popular given the range of designs and colours artisans are able to offer.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_1074.jpgWooden PuzzlesWooden puzzles and toys are a relatively new addition.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_1073.jpgGood LuckAlways try to have elephant figurines along with us at events as a symbol of good luck.. :-)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_1047.jpgElegant and EthnicWhile the designs need to match the European fashion tastes, elegant ethnic designs does make such traditional art relevant.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_1040.jpgRecycling Is KeySome of the jewellery is made from recycled materials - like these wire mesh earrings.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_1037.jpgDSC_1037Cotton scarves and upcycled leather accessories. The flowers are made from scrap leather pieces.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_1036.jpgRed GoldOur line of copper home decor and tableware items - handmade in my hometown, Pune. Though copper has mixed reputation, the products are simply eye-catching and top-class quality. https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_1034.jpgAt Fair Handeln 2014We regularly display our beautiful products at events around in Germany, for example, at the Fair Handeln exhibition in Stuttgart (April 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0322.jpgLeather Journals & iPad CoversModern applications include new lifestyle elements - tablets and smartphones. In the foreground we have a leather journal with pages from handmade paper. The journals are made by former cobblers, whose business of making ornate traditional footwear has declined considerably in the past decades. https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0227.jpgUpcycled VHS Tape ClutchThe clutch is made from old, upcycled VHS tapes2019-05-04T11:56:12+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/09/04/midnight-palace-zafon/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/the-midnight-palace_zafon.jpgThe Midnight PalaceThe Midnight Palace by Carlos Ruiz Zafon (Source: www.amazon.com)2019-05-04T11:55:18+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/09/03/arriving-munich/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0138.jpgGood Morning, Munich!First day to my new workplace - walking through the Viktualienmarkt at 07:30 in the morning on the way to the metro. (September 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0134.jpgA Touch of HomeAmazing how a couple of photos can change the feel of a room. The frame on the right has been with me since 2002 - though the photo is from 2007, I think. (August 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0119.jpgService ApartmentWith no apartment confirmed, I took up temporary residence at an apart-hotel close to Viktualienmarkt/Marienplatz. (August 2014) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0115.jpgFRAI am taking the FRA luggage tag and my favourite shoulder bag (from recycled tyres). Its becoming my constant travel companion. (August 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0114.jpgAll Set For Munich!All packed and waiting for the train to Munich (August 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/dsc_0055.jpgLast Day @ MattelDesk cleared out, badge handed in, time to go. Last day at Mattel. (August 2014)2019-05-04T11:53:58+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/31/wpc-dialogue/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dialogue1.jpgDialogueDialogue over Meaning of Love (August 2014)2019-05-04T11:51:33+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/30/ganaraya/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sketch_vighnaharta.jpgGaneshaSketch of the Elephant-headed God (May 2014)2019-05-04T11:50:24+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/28/yellow-curtains/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_0223.jpgLight Through The WindowWindow in my hotel room in Munich (Aug. 2014)2019-05-04T11:49:38+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/25/wpc-fray/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_0309.jpgFrayingWithered trees on the banks of the Tidal Basin in Washington D.C; the Jefferson Memorial in the background (March 2014)2019-05-04T11:48:35+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/19/cathedral-of-the-sea-by-ildefonso-falcones/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_00411.jpgCathedral of the Sea by Ildefonso FalconesCathedral of the Sea by Ildefonso Falcones (August 2014)2019-05-04T11:46:11+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/18/weekly-photo-challenge-silhouette/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_0438.jpgThree Faiths(Starting L to R) The Dome & Minaret of the Al Jezzar Pasha Mosque, the Israeli flag with the Star of David, and the tower of the ancient Citadel of the Knights Hospitaller in Akko, Israel (Nov. 2012) 2019-05-04T11:43:47+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/14/the-black-book-by-orhan-pamuk/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/the-black-book_pamuk.jpgThe Black BookThe Black Book by Orhan Pamuk (Source: www.amazon.com)2019-05-04T11:42:17+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/12/a-slice-of-happiness/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_0045.jpgA Slice of JoyA "slice" of a rainbow seen in this fountain on the Rechneigrabenweiher in Bethmann Park, Frankfurt (June 2014)2019-05-04T11:41:48+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/10/weekly-photo-challenge-texture/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_07741.jpgGrand Canyon In DaylightThe layered and eroded rock formations of the Grand Canyon in the daylight. (March 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_06101.jpgGrand Canyon In The Setting SunThe Grand Canyon, with its striated, layered, weather beaten rock formations, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. (March 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_0147.jpgWooden RoofWooden roof of the guesthouse in the Grand Canyon Village (March 2014)2019-05-04T11:40:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/04/the-red-window/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_0040.jpgThe Red Window The red window of a home in Farra di Soligo (July 2014)2019-05-04T11:38:42+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/08/02/zigzag/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/dsc_0027.jpgZigzag WaterfallZigzagging Waterfall on the Naeroyfjord, Norway (May 2013)2019-05-04T11:38:02+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/27/under-the-midnight-blue-sky/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0791.jpgUnder a Midnight Blue SkyEntrance of the Lindau harbour under a midnight blue sky. (June 2013)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_07522.jpgEntrance To The Lindau HarbourThe Lighthouse and the Bavarian Lion flanking the entrance to Lindau in daylight with the northern Alps in the background. (June 2013)2019-05-04T11:36:05+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/24/dinner-by-lago-di-pusiano/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_11252-e1406153647654.jpgLago di PusianoOn the shores of Lago di Pusiano close to Como, Italy (June 2013)2019-05-04T11:35:21+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/22/schlos-johannisburg-at-dusk/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0912.jpgSchloß Johannisburg At DuskSchloß Johannisburg lit up at dusk (July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0909.jpgSchloß JohannisburgSchloß Johannisburg on banks of the River Main, Aschaffenburg (July 2014)2019-05-04T11:33:35+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/19/on-the-road-to-farra-di-soligo/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/map.jpgFrankfurt to Soligo - On Paper837 km - estd. driving time of 9h 45min - with out photo breaks...:-) (Source: Google Maps)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0095_2.jpgMidnight Walk In Farra di Soligo11th July, 23:57 -- Having checked in, I finally realized how tired I was. But Sleep was still on its way. I decided to take a walk through the little village before hitting the bed. I sat down on a bench opposite this small chapel. A slight breeze cooling me down, the silence and the solitude soothing my mind. Peace.(July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0064_6.jpg"You Have Reached Your Destination"11th July, 23:34 -- "You have reached your destination", announced the GPS grandly. I was almost sad to have reached the end of this eventful drive. It had been such a wonderful experience and not for once did I regret having taken Jumbo along. Indeed, if I had booked a flight, I would have not only missed this cool drive, but also the wedding, as flights from FRA for Friday evening were cancelled due to bad weather. (July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0062_6.jpgTravel Companion11th July, 22.33 -- It was a beautiful night. I, with the Moon and Jumbo as my companions, was now close to Farra di Soligo. But my GPS had just "lost its way" - it couldn't place me properly or guide me. I stopped by at a restaurant to ask for directions and the young lady, speaking some broken English, could direct me towards the road to Treviso. Clicked this before getting back in to the car. It was a beautiful, beautiful night and I did entertain thoughts of sleeping out in the open with Jumbo - only if I did not have people waiting for me. (July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0050_6.jpgMoonrise11th July, 21:06 -- On the Strada Statale 47, near Castelnuovo. It was an almost full moon night and I was delighted to see the moon rise from behind the mountains. The picture does not do justice to the beauty I experienced. As Jumbo navigated the curves of the strada, the rising moon darted in and out from behind the mountains like some shy, smiling child. (July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0047_6.jpgThrough the Dolomites11th July, 20:25 -- Driving through the Dolomites with the windows down, letting the mountain air in, which carried the sounds and smells of the countryside, including the sound of a gushing mountain stream somewhere close by. (July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0042_4.jpgA Slice of Sunshine11th July, 19:35 -- Sunshine filtering through the clouds left interesting patterns on this rugged landscape. I still had quite a way to go, but, surrounded by such beautiful mountainscapes, I felt no tiredness... I kept breaking my promise to not shoot pictures while driving. (July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0039_6.jpgGliding In To Italy11th July, 19:25 -- Entering Italy from Austria via Brennero. The clouds look less threatening in the land of the "La Dolce Vita". I could also see the pale evening sun on the mountaintops in the distance. The downhill road, foot off the accelerator, and Jumbo was simply gliding noiselessly in to Italy as if in stealth mode. (July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0036_6.jpg100 Meters from Austrian Border11th July, 18:27 -- 100 m. from the Austrian border, Stopped to buy the "vignette" for driving through Austria. The sky was still cloudy, but it was pleasantly cool up here. And I was a man without a care. Just happy to be on the road. (July 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0032.jpgRoad To Garmisch Partenkirchen11th July, 17:56 -- Enroute to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Stormy weather was forecasted for the day, but I seemed to have out-raced the dark clouds, Really lucky to have missed the bad weather, which led to flights from Frankfurt airport getting cancelled that evening. (July 2014)2019-05-04T10:48:11+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/15/fortune-cookie/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/imag1336.jpgFortune CookieMessage in the fortune cookie from Isada (26.09.2013)2019-05-04T10:46:58+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/10/wildflowers/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0113.jpgWildflowersWildflowers on the alpine slopes near Grindelwald (May 2014)2019-05-04T10:45:04+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/09/ger-vs-bra-world-cup-2014/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/gervsbra_2014-07-09_0029.jpgA Scoreline You Won't See Too OftenYou won't see this scoreline too often in a World Cup semi-final (July 2014) Source: BBC Sporthttps://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/gervsbra_2014-07-08_2348.jpgFulltime Scoreline - WC 2014 SemifinalFulltime scoreline @ WC 2014 Semifinal Ger. vs. Bra. (July 2014) Source: BBC Sporthttps://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/gervsbra_2014-07-08_2253.jpgHalftime Scoreline - WC 2014 SemifinalHalftime scoreline @ WC 2014 Semifinal Ger. vs. Bra. (July 2014) Source: BBC Sport2019-05-04T10:44:24+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/08/look-what-i-found/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0006.jpgFirst Flight To GermanyBoarding card stubs (BOM > FRA > STR) - 26th August 2002 is when I first arrived in Germany.2019-05-04T10:43:50+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/06/bangladeshs-infoladies/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/970x727.jpgThe Infolady Mahfuza Akhter, 24, an Infolady, sets up a Skype session so Abdul Kashem can show off a newborn calf to his son in Saudi Arabia. (Source: Businessweek)2019-05-04T10:43:13+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/07/05/changing-cities/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/dsc_0024.jpgEmerging Out Of The Bamboo GardenEmerging out of the Bamboo Garden in Kurpark, Bad Hersfeld. (June 2014)2019-05-04T10:42:45+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/29/the-prince-of-darkness-miniature-version/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0087_41.jpgBatman XIThe prince of darkness (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0086_21.jpgBatman XJob done and its back to the lair. (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0085_21.jpgBatman IXAlways a shadow himself. (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0081_41.jpgBatman VIIIThe Prince of Darkness. (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0074.jpgBatman VIIRide on! (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0070.jpgBatman VIJust A Shadow. (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0069.jpgBatman VThe Batbike (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0065.jpgBatman IVIn close up. (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0062.jpgBatman IIIHeading straight for you. (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0060.jpgBatman IIRacing to stop the next crime (June 2014)2019-05-04T10:37:09+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/26/sunset-in-nazareth/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0287.jpgSunset in NazarethSunset seen over the rooftops of Nazareth (Dec. 2012)2019-05-04T10:35:53+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/21/visiting-middle-earth/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0468.jpgWould this be the Shire?Having read the article, I can imagine how the Shire could have looked - a village like this replaced by houses with round doors. An everlasting memory. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0155.jpgIce Cold and SweetGurgling down through a cleft in the mountainside and fed by the melting snow, the water is ice cold and so sweet... (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0133.jpgBag's EndWell, not exactly a hobbit home as Tolkien would have it, but secluded enough to resemble Bag's End (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0130.jpgGreen and GoldenThe yellow wildflowers within the grass creates this beautiful green-golden carpet covering the whole valley. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0126.jpgHomeThis wonderland is what these cows would call home. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0106.jpgReal EstateFramed against the mountains in the background, this barn could be a prized real estate among the livestock in this valley. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0097.jpgSecludedThe natural rise and fall in the ground offers some seclusion from the passers-by. Though a friendly folk, Hobbits don't like too many strangers.. :-) (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0094.jpgTouching the CloudsAt some points, you almost felt like you could stretch your hands out to grab the clouds above. (May 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0091.jpgLone TreeA lone tree guarding the way to one of the chalets hidden away from the view (May 2014).https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0087.jpgLight & ShadowThe shifting clouds also created magical patterns of light and shadow across the valley. (May 2014)2019-05-04T10:32:05+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/18/the-old-workhorse/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_1295.jpgThe Old WorkhorseOld Piaggio in the shed - Bellagio (June 2013)2019-05-04T10:28:59+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/13/capturing-history-on-a-hunch/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0678.jpgLaperouse On The CornerLaperouse on Quai des Grands Augustins (May 2014)2019-05-04T10:28:21+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/12/goodbye-dreieich-goodbye-tree/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_00331.jpgAll Packed Up!All Packed Up - Goodbye, Dreieich! (June 2014)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0176.jpgTree Outside My Office Window (Winter)Tree outside my office window in its wintry look (27th Jan. 2014 @ 12:20 pm) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0032-552x982.jpgTree Outside My Office Window (Summer)Tree outside my office window in full summer green (12th June 2014 @ 2:22 pm) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0022.jpgTree Outside My Office Window (Spring)Tree outside my office window in spring (4th April 2014 @ 11:36 am) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0003.jpgTree Outside My Office Window (Fall)Tree outside my office window with its brilliant fall colours (10th October 2013 @ 12:18 pm) 2019-05-04T10:27:36+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/10/lunch-in-audincourt/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0164-1.jpgBoulangerie in AudincourtBoulangerie in Audincourt (May 2014)2019-05-04T10:26:49+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/08/man-eaters-of-kumaon-by-jim-corbett/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/518gfccbo1l.jpgMan Eaters of Kumaon by Jim Corbett.Man Eaters of Kumaon by Jim Corbett.2019-05-04T10:24:53+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/07/everything-has-beauty/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0755.jpgTree On The Rim Of The CanyonDried out tree on the rim of the Grand Canyon (March 2014)2019-05-04T10:22:11+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/06/04/for-my-loved-ones/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/dsc_0566.jpgCompanionshipMan holding a woman in his arms - a sculpture seen on the streets of Sedona (March 2014)2019-05-04T10:21:16+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/25/walking-to-grindelwald/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dsc_0101.jpgWhere The Road Leads...Walking through the alpine countryside - from Bort to Grindelwald (May 2014)2019-05-04T10:19:48+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/05/04/eibsee/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/img_20190427_162934.jpgIMG_20190427_1629342019-05-04T10:11:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/04/07/smoldering/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/img_20190211_173432.jpgSmolderingI believe it is the first time I am seeing the sun lighting up the clouds from below..and me being in an aircraft above watching the clouds smoldering with an intense fire (Mar 2019)2019-04-07T13:52:32+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/03/23/molten-gold/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_20190318_225702_5483079168163142093295.jpgMolten GoldSunset turns Nuremberg in to a city of molten gold. (Mar 2019)2019-03-23T07:59:59+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/03/10/dissolving-clouds/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/img_20190310_180537.jpgDissolving CloudsSunset from the balcony... staring at clouds dissolving in the sky. (Mar 2019)2019-03-10T22:04:07+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/02/10/neom/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dsc_1623-1.jpgBoatsA traditional boat chugs past these fancy yachts in the port of Birgu – in the background you can see the city of Valletta (Dec 2018)2019-02-10T22:10:30+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/02/03/leaving-walpertskirchen/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/img_20190131_072527_875.jpgIMG_20190131_072527_875.jpg2019-02-03T22:40:24+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/01/26/a-grain-of-sand/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/dsc_1128.jpgCamel RiderThe camel and it's rider on the horizon with the vastness of the desert around them (Nov 2018)2019-01-26T22:56:01+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2019/01/20/sam-dunes/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/dsc_1186.jpgDesert SunsetSunset over Sam dunes (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/dsc_1149.jpgRideA camel rider leads his camel for a last ride with a couple of tourists before the day comes to a close. (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/dsc_1162.jpgDesertThe rippled sands of the desert make for a timeless picture (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/dsc_1154.jpgBreakThis camel rider takes a break (Nov 2018)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/dsc_1129_2.jpgDappledAs the sun moves across the sky, the light creates different visual effects on the sand (Nov 2018)2019-01-20T10:51:47+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/11/the-church-on-the-hill/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dsc_1021.jpgChurch On The HillOn the road from Vaduz to Como (June 2013)2019-01-03T15:15:39+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/16/coffee-by-the-harbour/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dsc_0844.jpgCoffee by the HarbourEntering the harbour at Konstanz on Lake Constance. (May 2013)2019-01-03T15:15:19+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/22/red-rock-formations-in-sedona/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dsc_0521.jpgRed Rock Formations near SedonaRed rock formations just outside of Sedona, Arizona (March 2014)2019-01-03T15:05:59+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/17/sunset-over-the-grand-canyon/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dsc_0624-1.jpgSunset Over The Grand CanyonSunset over the Grand Canyon on 23.03.2014 (March 2014)2019-01-03T15:04:38+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/15/the-flower-within/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dsc_0071.jpgThe Flower Within The FlowerClose up of a flower in the Bethmann Park in Frankfurt (May 2014).2019-01-01T21:43:28+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/07/tender-words/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dsc_0714.jpgConiferous ForestEnroute to Hardangerfjord close to Bergen, Norway (May 2013)2019-01-01T20:08:25+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/06/apparition/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc_0081.jpgGhostlyKasturi checking her emails in darkness. (April 2014)2019-01-01T20:07:03+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/04/the-chinese-garden-down-the-road/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dsc_0036.jpgIn The Chinese GardenThe Pagoda in the Chinese Garden within the Bethmann Park, Frankfurt (May 2014)2019-01-01T20:05:29+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/05/01/the-alpsee/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/img_14441.jpgAlpsee near NeuschwansteinThe Alpsee at the foot of Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau (Aug. 2007)2019-01-01T20:03:50+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/04/26/on-the-naeroyfjord/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/nf-dsc_0837.jpgTowering Cliffs Around the NaeroyfjordTowering Cliffs Around the Naeroyfjord (May 2013)2019-01-01T20:02:33+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/04/23/catching-up-in-scottsdale/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc_0448.jpgCatching UpIn Scottsdale - gelato and friends make a great afternoon (March 2014)2019-01-01T19:59:56+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/04/21/a-moment-in-time/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc_0046.jpgMisty Winter Morning in PfrontenA Misty Winter Morning in Pfronten (Dec. 2013)2019-01-01T19:58:38+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/04/20/roots-to-come-back-to/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc_0115.jpgFrankfurt Messe Tower at Night Frankfurt Messe Tower from the terrace garden of Alex in Skyline Plaza (April 2014).2019-01-01T19:56:31+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/04/15/the-villa-by-the-lake/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc_1103.jpgVilla Balbianello on Lake Como Villa Balbianello on Lake Como (June 2013)2019-01-01T19:54:21+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/04/12/prancing-horse-of-stuttgart/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc_0063.jpgPrancing Horse of StuttgartThe Prancing Horse of Stuttgart in front of the Exhibition Center in Stuttgart (April 2014)2019-01-01T19:50:59+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/04/05/the-grand-canyon-in-black-white/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/dsc_0678-1.jpgThe Grand Canyon - in Black and WhiteShortly after sunrise on 23.03.2014 at the Grand Canyon (March 2014)2019-01-01T19:49:33+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/03/29/the-light-within/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dsc_0234.jpgLight WithinCandles in Church of Annunciation in Nazareth (December 2012)2019-01-01T19:47:43+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/03/27/horse-on-a-terrace/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dsc_0424.jpgHorse on the TerraceHorse on a Terrace in Scottsdale (March 2014)2019-01-01T19:45:19+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/03/19/bare-stark/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dsc_0313.jpgBare and StarkJust a few days left before spring arrives in DC. (March 2014)2019-01-01T19:43:29+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/03/14/time-for-a-break/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/wpid-dsc_0059.jpgTaking a BreakReady for Take-off (Mar. 2014)2019-01-01T19:41:28+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/03/09/beyond-the-latticed-window/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/imag0260.jpgLatticed Window of the Suhag Mandir at Amer FortLatticed Window of the Suhag Mandir at the Amer Fort, Jaipur (Dec. 2011)2019-01-01T19:39:07+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/03/08/germanys-fairytale-castle/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/dsc_0010.jpgNeuschwanstein - Germany's Fairytale CastleView of Neuschwanstein from the Marienbrücke (December 2013)2019-01-01T19:37:46+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/26/first-snow-at-midnight/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_0096.jpgSnowing at MidnightWalking Through Fresh Snow At Midnight.2019-01-01T19:34:38+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/03/02/r-i-p-jules/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/jules.jpgJulesWith Jules at Palace of India in Frankfurt (on 11.10.2013)2019-01-01T19:34:03+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/02/28/break-of-dawn/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/imag1081-1.jpgSunrise in Monte CarloSunrise in Monte Carlo (April 2013)2019-01-01T19:33:45+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/02/21/burdened-by-a-raindrop/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/burdened-by-a-drop.jpgBurdened by a Rain DropBurdened by a rain drop2019-01-01T19:33:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/31/sunrise-on-a66/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_0027.jpgSunrise on A66On the outskirts of Frankfurt - on 19.10.20132019-01-01T19:32:52+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/16/sunset-of-05-12-2013/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_02092.jpgAutumn Sunset of 5th Dec. 2013That's how the evening of 5th Dec. 2013 looked like at 16:402019-01-01T19:32:40+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/02/17/the-mystic-and-his-prayer/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/the-mystic-his-prayer.jpgThe Mystic & His PrayerThe Mystic & His Prayer2019-01-01T19:01:23+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/02/15/learning-japanese/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/learning-japanese.jpgLearning JapaneseA New Year's Resolution fulfilled. Learning a New Language2019-01-01T18:56:25+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/02/14/cool-wheels-in-tallinn-3/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/033_pw.jpgCool Wheels in Tallinn Cool Wheels seen on streets of Tallinn (June 2009)2019-01-01T18:52:05+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/02/05/still-waters-hopfen-am-see/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/dsc_0126.jpgView of the Alps from Hopfen am SeeView of the Alps from Hopfen am See2019-01-01T18:47:21+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/02/11/walking-through-time/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/imag0598.jpgChapel Bridge of LucerneThe Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) of Lucerne (May 2012)2019-01-01T18:46:51+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/02/08/grief-in-stone/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/imag06131.jpgLion Monument of LucerneLion of Lucerne (Löwendenkmal)2019-01-01T18:43:09+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/30/conviction/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_0113.jpgConvictionThis quote from Goethe's "Faust" as seen on the doors of the Goethe Gymnasium in Frankfurt2019-01-01T18:33:47+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/19/tea-on-a-weekend-morning/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_00071.jpgMy Companion In CreativityMy Morning Tea on Weekends is Irreplaceable2019-01-01T18:32:22+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/23/seven-pillars-of-wisdom-a-triumph/2019-01-01T18:28:50+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/21/aslan/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/selukylmazaslan1.jpgAslanAslan by Selçuk Yılmaz (Source; http://www.mymodernmet.com)2019-01-01T18:25:39+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/14/concrete-illusion/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_00141.jpgApartment in Tel AvivAn optical illusion created by this sideways view2019-01-01T18:13:34+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/12/wimpfener-bucherturm/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_0012.jpgWimpfener BücherturmThe open library on the streets of Bad Wimpfen2019-01-01T18:12:25+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/11/the-hauptwache-quartet/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_0032.jpgThe "Hauptwache Quartet"Street Musicians playing at the Hauptwache station in Frankfurt2019-01-01T18:09:08+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/04/harveys-pimped-up/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_0031.jpgSnazzy Harvey'sHarvey's with the new night look2019-01-01T18:07:03+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/03/ithaca/2019-01-01T18:04:51+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/02/bhutanese-tales-of-the-yeti/2019-01-01T18:02:08+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2014/01/01/goodbye-2013-welcome-2014/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/c3170-dsc_0887.jpgOn the NaeroyfjordOn the Naeroyfjord2019-01-01T18:00:41+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2013/12/30/rumi-on-my-mind-in-fra/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/rumi-quote_fra-pic.jpgThinking of Rumi Along the NiddaRumi On My Mind In FRA2019-01-01T17:56:39+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2013/12/21/winter-solstice-in-fra/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/dsc_0013-1.jpgWinter Solstice in FrankfurtView of Frankfurt from the Fleming's Bar on 21st Dec.2019-01-01T17:53:53+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2013/12/27/avatar-esque-glowing-foliage/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/38826-tech_innovator52_970.jpgStarlight AvatarBioglow Starlight Avatar2019-01-01T17:45:44+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2013/12/25/merry-christmas/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/d2215-imag0162.jpgChristmas Tree in City Palace of JaipurChristmas Tree in the City Palace of Jaipur2019-01-01T17:42:31+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2018/02/13/frankfurt/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dsc_0666.jpgFarmlandsThis is close to where I stay and a walk on a spring day through the surrounding farmlands is like chicken soup for the soul.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dsc_0645.jpgTaunusStep out of the city and in 20 minutes you are in the Taunus mountains. https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dsc_0971.jpgOld & NewThe luxury Jumeirah hotel contrasts with the St Pauls Church on the left and old customs watchtower in the foreground on the right - that's Frankfurt for you.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dsc_0959.jpgEuropean Central BankThe new European Central Bank is a landmark in itself situated along the Main riverhttps://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dsc_0958.jpgFrankfurt SkylineThe skyline of Frankfurt's business district - 8 out of 10 photos of Frankfurt highlight its skyline.https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/dsc_0951.jpgBy The RiverA walk by the river - with its old tram tracks is an experience in summer and in fall. 2018-05-23T16:00:54+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/09/13/the-ribat/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0434.jpgEntrance to the TowerA spiral staircase leads one to the top of the tower where sweeping views of the sea and the town of Sousse await. (Aug 2017) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0423.jpgParting ThoughtsMore than ever - the religion finds itself embattled from within. The Ribat might be an outdated structure in the physical world, but I think we all need our own spiritual Ribats in our mindspace to keep out enemies like hate, ignorance and discrimination. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0422.jpgAerial ViewFrom the other side, you can look down over the courtyard of the Ribat itself. Over time, as the religion established itself, the Ribat turned in to a retreat for Sufi mystics and later in to a caravanserai. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0410.jpgThe KasbahFrom the top of the tower, a view of the medina (old town) and the Kasbah now housing the Sousse Archaelogical Museum with the second largest collection of Roman and Byzantine mosaics. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0394.jpgThe WatchtowerThe watch-tower doubled as a minaret for the nearby mosque (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0390.jpgPrayer HallThe entire southern wing is taken up by this large prayer room. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0386.jpgThe Fortress-MonasteryBuilt in the 9th century AD, the Ribat was originally intended as a fortress-monastery to house military volunteers as Islam spread across North Africa. On two levels, small cells serving as living quarters for these soldier-monks surround the courtyard (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0373.jpgEntranceThe entrance to the Ribat is right across the paved square from the mosque (Aug 2017)2017-09-17T15:57:28+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/2017/09/02/great-mosque-of-sousse/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/img_20170816_144211230.jpgMihrabInside the stone walls, the interiors are cool and quiet. The mihrab seemed a relatively simple affair with the focus light as the only ornamentation. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0421.jpgAerial ViewThe Great Mosque of Sousse as viewed from the tower of the nearby Ribat (Aug 2017) https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0367.jpgCourtyardA lone potted plant stands in the middle of the large courtyard and is probably the only thing that can be mildly considered as decoration. (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0365.jpgAustereThe mosque is very austere apart from some architectural touches like these arches along the corridor (Aug 2017)https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/dsc_0350.jpgLike a FortLocated on the northern edge of the medina (old town), the crenellated wall and two watchtowers are the first thing you notice as you approach the mosque. (Aug 2017)2017-09-12T19:08:21+00:00monthlyhttps://pariferal.com/about/https://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/imag0902.jpgOil Lamp for DiwaliOne of the many oil lamps lit at home for Diwalihttps://pariferal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/cropped-header11.jpgBlog Header - Switzerland IGrindelwald, Switzerland (May 2014)2018-02-18T09:15:36+00:00weekly0.6https://pariferal.com/contact/2014-07-22T16:31:22+00:00weekly0.6https://pariferal.comdaily1.02020-04-10T14:43:30+00:00