Halcyon Travels

Skies over Belize

2012-02-03T08:56:00.001-05:00

A last look at Belize. I hope you have enjoyed this look at the lovely country. Next up, Mayan ruins! Photo taken in December 2011.

To see more skies, check out Skywatch.

The ship

2012-02-02T01:32:00.001-05:00

A look up at the Mariner of the Seas. I could use some of that warm sun right about now. Photo taken in December 2011.

Nice kitty

2012-02-01T00:27:00.001-05:00

I saved my best animal shot for last. This is Olly the ocelot, I'm not sure how he turned up at the zoo - sometimes people think exotic animals make good pets and then realize they don't. But the many caretakers and staff try to keep the surroundings as natural as possible. Photo taken in December 2011.

I hope you have enjoyed this series on the animals of Belize. Tomorrow we're on to something new!

Official dude

2012-01-31T05:11:00.003-05:00

The tapir is the official animal of Belize. Unfortunately, I couldn't get any better shots of these fellows, you don't want to get too close because they spray. But I do find them cute in their own way. Photo taken in December 2011.

Monkey business

2012-01-30T17:17:00.000-05:00

There's no aping around for these serious fellows. Photo taken in December 2011.

Just hanging out

2012-01-29T10:09:00.000-05:00

This big kitty found the perfect spot for a cat nap. It doesn't look too comfortable to me, but I'm not a cat! Photo taken in December 2011.

White dude

2012-01-28T16:31:00.003-05:00

I don't remember what the name of this critter was, but he's pretty cute! Photo taken at the Belize Zoo in December 2011. If you like animals, check out Camera Critters.

ETA: He is an albino coati, a relative of the aardvark.

No pictures, please

2012-01-27T00:25:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I showed you a male harpy eagle and here's a look at the female. Unfortunately, I couldn't get her to turn around and give me some face, but you can clearly see the size and stature of this beautiful bird. Just look at those talons! She was amazing. Photo taken in December 2011.

PS: Happy International Women's Day!

Proud man

2012-01-26T00:35:00.000-05:00

This beautiful, proud man is a harpy eagle. In contrast to other species, female eagles are always bigger than the males. Unfortunately, I couldn't get a good shot of the lady. But this man looks pretty cool, I think. Photo taken in December 2011.

Open mouthed

2012-01-25T00:03:00.000-05:00

Here's another American crocodile, this one was seen at the Belize Zoo rather than in the wild. Photo taken in December 2011.

Feathered friend

2012-01-24T00:18:00.001-05:00

I don't recall now what type of bird this is, let's just call it pretty. Also seen at the Belize Zoo in December 2011.

ETA: This is a blue-crowned motmot. Certainly a fitting name!

Le charmeur

2012-01-23T00:50:00.001-05:00

After lunch at the Tavern, we headed to the Belize Zoo. I typically am not too fond of zoos, but this one was really special. The philosophy is to keep the setting as natural as possible and all the animals are native to Belize. As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by this charming fellow and his friend, the zookeeper. A charming welcome, indeed! Photo taken in December 2011.

Ye olde tavern

2012-01-22T10:12:00.000-05:00

Here's a look at the Old Town Tavern where we stopped for lunch after the river cruise. It was a bit rustic, but I liked the simple feel of it. And the colorful murals were a nice touch.

We were served up a portion of rice and beans, salad and mystery meat. They wouldn't say what it was, just that it "tastes like chicken". My husband tried it and he believes it was croc. I just stayed with the stuff I knew! Photo taken in December 2011.

Blue skies reflected

2012-01-21T10:59:00.000-05:00

After the river cruise, we stopped at the Olde Belize Tavern for lunch. It was a rustic little place right on the water. I'll show you a bit of it tomorrow as well as the victuals they served. For now enjoy this sunny day on the river. Photo taken in December 2011.

To see more reflections, head over to the Weekend Reflections blog.

Mama croc

2012-01-20T00:32:00.000-05:00

Every baby has a mother and this one was keeping a close eye on our boat as we snapped our shots of her offspring. Our guide said theses two specimens are American crocodiles and there are plenty more living and breeding in the Old Belize River. It was quite a good place for a wildlife tour. Photo taken in December 2011.

Baby

2012-01-19T00:57:00.000-05:00

He's got a face only a mother could love. Photo taken in December 2011.

Fancy man

2012-01-18T01:22:00.004-05:00

Yesterday's post might have got you wondering how I can tell male and female iguanas apart. When it's mating season, it's no problem as the men are out and about in their best and brightest in order to attract the ladies. We saw quite a few of these dashing fellows during our river cruise. They weren't hard to find! Photo taken in December 2011.

She's a lady

2012-01-17T10:22:00.000-05:00

You'll see a lovely lady iguana posing right there where the two branches of this tree meet. You might wonder how I know that she's a she. Check back tomorrow and I'll reveal my secrets! Photo taken in December 2011.

Chauve souris

2012-01-16T01:14:00.000-05:00

I don't recall the exact name of these bats, but let's call them "little tree bats". I saw these during our cruise on the Old Belize river. Check back tomorrow for more interesting wildlife! Photo taken in December 2011.

Belize bridge

2012-01-15T15:23:00.000-05:00

I hated to leave Roatan, but now we're on to Belize! This is a bridge over the Old Belize River. It empties right out into the ocean, so it was a convenient place to start our wildlife tour. We took a small boat up this river and saw lots of different animals: birds, iguanas, bats, monkeys and crocodiles. I'll show you more this week. Photo taken in December 2011. If you'd like to see more bridges from around the world, visit Sunday Bridges.

Good-bye Roatan

2012-01-14T12:34:00.000-05:00

I really hope to see you again. This little island was my favorite stop on the cruise. Photo taken in December 2011.

Almost paradise

2012-01-13T00:37:00.000-05:00

A beautiful sky greeted us as we sailed away from Roatan, Honudras. But don't worry, there's more paradise to come! Photo taken in December 2011. To see more beautiful skies, take a look at Skywatch.

Village life

2012-01-12T02:32:00.000-05:00

I hope you're not getting tired of Roatan yet! This is one of the typical homes on the water. Although it could use some work, I rather like the looks of it. Photo taken in December 2011.

Welcome sign

2012-01-11T08:58:00.000-05:00

You've probably gathered by now that I enjoyed my visit to Roatan. Both the people and the signs were very welcoming. Photo taken in December 2011. If you like signs, check out Signs, Signs.

Island time III

2012-01-10T00:02:00.000-05:00

More great scenes from Roatan. Don't worry, there's still more to come... Photo taken in December 2011.

The Navigator

2012-01-09T16:34:00.000-05:00

Here's a quick peek at our ship from the shores of Roatan. It's the Royal Caribbean, Navigator of the Seas. I really enjoyed the experience of being onboard for the holidays. Photo taken in December 2011.

Geometric

2012-01-08T11:45:00.000-05:00

A look from above into one of the shopping plazas in Roatan, Honduras. I liked the way the light was shining on the supports, they create a nice geometric scene. If you'd like to see more black and white shots, check out the Weekend in Black and White.

Island time II

2012-01-07T11:22:00.000-05:00

It seems I found beautiful shots at every turn in Roatan. Photo taken in December 2011.

Island time

2012-01-06T00:56:00.009-05:00

I really liked Roatan. It's a small island off the coast of Honduras which hasn't been too tourist-ified yet. The people were friendly, the weather was warm and the sky was blue. What more could you ask for in late December? If you like skies like I do, head over to Skywatch.

Singing and dancing

2012-01-05T08:32:00.000-05:00

These musicians and dancers were waiting on the pier to entertain us as we docked at Roatan, Honduras. They kept it up from 8am to 5pm, which is quite something since the dancing was quite physical. I enjoyed their chants and drums. I can almost hear them again now... Photo taken in December 2011.

Great blue

2012-01-04T04:42:00.000-05:00

Our first stop was Roatan, Honduras. We did a little snorkeling on the reef, it was beautiful but we didn't see a lot of fish due to the strong currents that day. It was nice to be in the sun and warm waters though. Photo taken in December 2011.

Oh what a beautiful morning!

2012-01-03T00:25:00.000-05:00

I spent the holidays with my husband and mother-in-law on a Caribbean cruise. This beautiful sunrise greeted us in Galveston on the day of our departure. It was a good sign of the days to come! Photo taken in December 2011.

Wish balloon

2012-01-02T07:28:00.000-05:00

Last year while celebrating New Year's in Davos we participated in a wish balloon release. Everyone had a chance to write a wish on the paper balloon and then it was let go at midnight. I wonder if any of them came true... Photo taken in January 2011.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T07:13:00.000-05:00

These fireworks come to you from last year's celebration outside Davos, Switzerland. Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and my best wishes to you for a happy and successful new year! Photo taken in January 2011.

Potsdamer platz

2011-12-18T00:07:00.000-05:00

The famous modern roof of the Sony Center. I think it looks great in black and white. Photo taken in November 2011.

Mahnmal

2011-12-17T00:03:00.000-05:00

A look at the German Holocaust Monument in Berlin. It's a not-to-be-missed highlight of Berlin! Photo taken in November 2011.

Reuse and recycle

2011-12-16T00:38:00.001-05:00

This colorful cafe is actually an old shipping container which has found a new use! I think this is a great idea. Photo taken in November 2011. You can see more reflections at Weekend Reflections.

Gray day

2011-12-15T09:50:00.000-05:00

It's a cold day for boating on the Wannsee lake in Berlin. Photo taken in November 2011.

By day

2011-12-14T08:46:00.000-05:00

A look at one of the Christmas Market huts during the day. I must admit, they look nicer at night. Photo taken in November 2011.

Long benches

2011-12-13T08:03:00.000-05:00

If you've roamed the streets of Berlin and need a rest, these benches will do the trick! I found them near the Bundeskanzlerampt. Photo taken in November 2011.

American bear

2011-12-12T09:28:00.000-05:00

The bear has always been the symbol of Berlin and all over the city you'll find these decorated bears. Usually they are decorated in a sponsor company's colors or something of that sort, but this one is pretty special. You'll see the Lady Liberty Bear at the American Embassy just off Pariser Platz in the heart of the city. I think she's pretty cool! Photo taken in November 2011.

Neverending

2011-12-11T10:50:00.001-05:00

Inside the Akademie der Kuenste on the Pariser Platz. I love these stairways, they remind me of and M.C. Escher design or something out of Harry Potter. Photo taken in November 2011. To see more monochrome, take a look at the Weekend in Black and White.

Reflections on Pariserplatz

2011-12-10T11:36:00.000-05:00

A reflected look at Pariserplatz in Berlin. And a bonus autoportrait! Photo taken in November 2011. If you like reflective shots, take a look at Weekend Reflections.

Brandenburger tor

2011-12-09T00:14:00.000-05:00

One of Berlin's most recognizable landmarks, the Brandenburg Gate is always nice to see! Photo taken in November 2011. To see more skies from around the world, visit Skywatch.

City art

2011-12-08T00:33:00.000-05:00

I found this statue near the Tiergarten Park. Unfortunately, I don't recall who the artist is. But it makes for an interesting piece. Photo taken in November 2011.

Pregnant oyster

2011-12-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

The House of the Cultures of the World is affectionately known to Berliners as the Pregnant Oyster. The building was used as a convention center when East and West were divided. Now it's used for art exhibitions and performances. Normally there is a shallow reflecting pool around that sculpture, but it had already been drained for the winter when I was there. Photo taken in November 2011.

Red in a row

2011-12-06T00:45:00.000-05:00

Like many other cities, Berlin has jumped on the city bike bandwagon. For a small annual fee, you get access to rental bicycles all around the city. I think it's a great way to get around, especially in a bike-friendly city like Berlin! Photo taken in November 2011. If you'd like to see more red shots from around the world, visit Ruby Tuesday.

Look down

2011-12-05T08:20:00.000-05:00

I usually spend my time looking up, but sometimes it pays to look down. I love this cobblestone design in the street. It reminds me a bit of a triskell, although I found this on the streets of Berlin. Photo taken in November 2011.

Bundeskanzleramt in the fall

2011-12-04T09:56:00.000-05:00

That skinny building with the circle cut-out is the German Chancellery building. This is where the famed Angela works. Word has it, she has a private apartment in there too for the late nights. Must be nice! Photo taken in November 2011.

PS: I'm moving on from the Reichstag, but if you'd like to see the modern glass dome, just click on the link!

Memorial

2011-12-03T15:54:00.000-05:00

You'll find this memorial near the Reichstag in Berlin. It remembers the left and centrist politicians who were murdered or sent to concentration camps for their beliefs during the rise of the Nazi party. Photo taken in November 2011. To see more black and white shots from around the world, visit the Weekend in Black and White.

Reichstag details

2011-12-02T08:43:00.001-05:00

Here's a closer look at some of the details on the Reichstag in Berlin. I gave you the full frontal view earlier this week. I think it's funny the way they've incorporated a lamp into the sculpture here. Funny and fitting! Photo taken in November 2011.

Afternoon in the park

2011-12-01T00:08:00.000-05:00

Many people were out for a stroll in the Tiergarten park. It's a lovely spot to visit when you're in Berlin. Photo taken in November 2011.

Grand entrance

2011-11-30T07:47:00.002-05:00

This is the "front door" to the Reichstag in Berlin. It's the government building where all the important stuff happens. You know all those meetings and whatnot. Just a few years ago, visitors could come here and queue up to climb to the top. On this trip I learned that you now have to make an appointment to make the climb. That will probably result in less people seeing the building, which is a shame. If you'd like a look at the dome, I have shown it previously here. Photo taken in November 2011.

Spree in autumn

2011-11-29T00:58:00.002-05:00

Berlin's beautiful river surrounded by fall foliage. It's a lovely place to be! Photo taken in November 2011.

Airport park

2011-11-28T18:47:00.000-05:00

One of the best things about living in a big city is not having to travel through 10,000 airports in order to get over the pond. There's a direct flight from Toronto to Amsterdam and then it's just a short hop to Berlin from there. I took a little nap in this "park" on my most recent trip. It was quite calming with the fake trees, grass and even the sounds of birds and crickets. Photo taken in November 2011.

Looking through

2011-11-27T11:11:00.000-05:00

I love arches, especially when you can work them in as a natural frame in your shot. The Colosseum is full of photo opportunities. I'm sure I missed some! Photo taken in May 2011.

Inside the Colosseum

2011-11-26T01:07:00.001-05:00

It's easy to imagine this place full of cheering crowds. What a piece of history! Photo taken in May 2011.

The Colosseum

2011-11-25T08:14:00.001-05:00

It's amazing to think that this structure still stands almost intact after more than two thousand years. You really feel like you're living history when you step inside. The only downside for me was the crowds. Photo taken in May 2011. To see more skies from around the world, visit Skywatch.

Another arch

2011-11-24T01:03:00.003-05:00

If yesterday's arch was from Titus then this one must be from Constantine. Hope you enjoy the full frontal view. Photo taken in May 2011.

Frieze details

2011-11-23T11:47:00.000-05:00

I am sorry I don't recall if this Constantine's or Titus' Arch, I guess I wasn't paying enough attention to the guide! Maybe someone can tell from the details on this frieze.

I also couldn't decide between the black and white or color version. What do you think? Photo taken in May 2011.

The arch

2011-11-22T03:43:00.003-05:00

A look at the Triumphal Arch of Rome. I'll show you some more of the friezes tomorrow. Photo taken in May 2011.

To the Forum

2011-11-21T07:37:00.000-05:00

I found the Forum hard to photograph. For one thing, I was there in the middle of the day when the light was the starkest (and it was pretty darn hot too!). Secondly, there's so much scaffolding and fencing that gets in the way. And last of all, it's one of those places that the pictures never quite turn out exactly how the place really was. But here's a look. Photo taken in May 2011. I'll show you Rome's Triumphal Arch tomorrow.

Let them eat cake!

2011-11-20T10:40:00.000-05:00

This is the Altar of the Motherland, known to Romans affectionately (or ironically?) as the wedding cake building. The name fits well as it's big, white and fancy. Everything you'd want in a wedding cake! Photo taken in May 2011.

Grating

2011-11-19T17:55:00.000-05:00

Even the floors in Saint Peter's are beautiful! I found this grating there, it's fancy and a perfect subject for black and white. Photo taken in May 2011. If you'd like to see more monochrome shots from around the world, visit the Weekend in Black and White.

Pope's home

2011-11-18T07:17:00.000-05:00

Romans know the Pope is in residence when the windows to his study are open. You'll see the open window on the top right. Photo taken in May 2011. To see more skies from around the world, visit Skywatch.

Slithery details

2011-11-17T16:46:00.000-05:00

Details from inside Saint Peter's. This slinky man was found on one of the water basins. Photo taken in May 2011.

The altar

2011-11-16T00:23:00.002-05:00

A look at the famed altar. It's even more beautiful in person. Photo taken in May 2011.

The Basilica: Part II

2011-11-15T00:19:00.005-05:00

Normally you can pay a little extra and take a walk up and around the basilica, but due to the Pope's address, it was not open that day. It's too bad because I bet that's some view. Photo taken in May 2011.

Let there be light...

2011-11-14T00:15:00.001-05:00

It's back to Saint Peter's. This time we'll take a look at what's on the inside. The pope had an address prepared for later in the day when I visited last, that's the reason for all the barriers. I didn't even get to look at the Pieta because of all the security measures. Photo taken in May 2011.

Over the Tiber

2011-11-13T00:06:00.001-05:00

One of the many fantastic bridges in Rome. There's something about the eternal city that cries out for black and white. Photo taken in May 2011. To see more bridges from around the world, take a look at the Sunday Bridges series.

Crazy for columns

2011-11-12T00:03:00.007-05:00

I just love columns and I think this set that adorns Saint Peter's looks especially good in black and white. Photo taken in May 2011. To see more monochrome shots, take a look at the Weekend in Black and White.

The Basilica

2011-11-11T00:01:00.016-05:00

Here's a look at the basilica. It looks especially nice against a beautiful blue sky! Photo taken in May 2011. To see more beautiful skies from around the world, visit Skywatch.

Full frontal

2011-11-10T00:04:00.001-05:00

Here's the full frontal view of Saint Peter's. You can't see the basilica from this angle, but it's so fantastically beautiful! Photo taken in May 2011.

Into Saint Peter's

2011-11-09T00:43:00.000-05:00

One of the fabulous doorways into Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City. I have been there several times and it never ceases to fascinate me. Photo taken in May 2011.

The steps

2011-11-08T00:38:00.003-05:00

A look at the famous Spanish Steps in Rome. I doubt you could catch a moment without people in it. Photo taken in May 2011.

Roman sky

2011-11-07T00:05:00.002-05:00

Night falls over the eternal city. I could have taken pictures of every building I saw. There are so many beautiful details. Photo taken in May 2011.

Beach scene

2011-11-06T00:37:00.001-04:00

I guess I'm sort of on a black and white kick. This one comes to you from the shores of Lake Michigan. Photo taken in June 2011.

Up close

2011-11-05T00:34:00.005-04:00

Another floral delight, this time in black and white! Photo taken in June 2011.

Golden memories

2011-11-04T00:30:00.002-04:00

A beautiful reminder of the summer that's now far behind us. Bring on the snow! Photo taken in June 2011.

Just geesey

2011-11-03T00:26:00.000-04:00

Everything is almost ducky with these Canada geese, except the mess they're leaving behind! I caught these guys in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Photo taken in June 2011.

Aviation history

2011-11-02T02:22:00.008-04:00

A welcoming sign outside the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo. It's a really interesting place to visit with lots to see and this shot brings an end to my series on it. If you'd like to see more signs, visit Signs, Signs.

Urgences!

2011-11-01T00:07:00.000-04:00

The Air Zoo also showcased a few non-aeronautical items like this ambulance. I believe it's a Packard, but I'm sure there's at least one person out there who can verify my claim (you know who you are!). Photo taken in June 2011.

Fighting spirit

2011-10-31T08:59:00.000-04:00

This is the Bell P-39 Airacobra, one of the main fighter planes used by the United States during WWII. This one looks pretty fierce. I don't think I'd want to mess around with whoever was operating it! Photo taken in June 2011.

Colorful

2011-10-30T08:31:00.000-04:00

I hope you are not getting tired of my aeronautical series. I loved the bright colors on this plane. But once again had the flash problems. It's really hard getting indoor photos. Photo taken in June 2011.

Red nose

2011-10-29T17:45:00.000-04:00

I love the red snout on this plane. It's a Hispano HA-1112 Buchon. The colors are rather patriotic, at least for Americans!

Big bird

2011-10-28T02:41:00.001-04:00

Here's a B-25J Mitchell for you. I rather like it in black and white, but I think the color version is worth seeing too.

Apparently the pilots liked to personalize their planes. I think it's a neat idea. Photo taken in June 2011. For more monochrome shots, take a look at the Weekend in Black and White.

Flying pink

2011-10-27T02:26:00.000-04:00

This beauty hangs just above the entrance to the Kalamazoo Air Zoo. It's a Curtiss P-40N Warhawk, but what makes this one special is that it was piloted by Suzanne Parish. She served with the WASP s (Women Airforce Service Pilots) during WWII and donated her Warhawk to the museum during her later years. I'm sure she was some lady! Photo taken in June 2011.

Engine trouble

2011-10-26T00:06:00.002-04:00

The trouble is, the built-in flash on my camera can't get over the 200mm lens and sometimes leaves shadows like that. I still like this shot though. It comes to you from the Kalamazoo Air Zoo and was taken in June 2011.

Summer treats

2011-10-25T09:51:00.000-04:00

I'm just about out of shots from Saugatuck. I know this is a summery place and I hate to remind you that winter's on the way, but it's just so darn cute! Photo taken in June 2011.

Fashionable ladies

2011-10-24T08:49:00.000-04:00

I found these mannequins advertising one of the cute shops in Saugatuck, Michigan. Looks like a fun place to shop! Photo taken in June 2011.

Waterfront benches

2011-10-23T09:52:00.000-04:00

You'll find these benches along the Kalamazoo River in Saugatuck, Michigan. Looks like a nice place to sit and contemplate a bit. Photo taken in June 2011.

Picket fences

2011-10-22T01:11:00.000-04:00

Nothing says cute and quaint more than a white picket fence. Photo taken in June 2011. To see more monochrome shots from around the world, visit the Weekend in Black and White.

Air zoo

2011-10-21T08:03:00.001-04:00

One of the major attractions of Kalamazoo is the Air Zoo. It's filled with historic airplanes (most of them still in working condition, so I'm told) and there are a few old cars too. This is some kind of B25, I believe this type of plane was used during the air lifts into Berlin. You can correct me if I'm wrong. Photo taken in June 2011.

Over the Kalamazoo

2011-10-20T01:14:00.001-04:00

This old-fashioned chain ferry will take you across the Kalamazoo River to Oval Beach. It's a popular sunbathing spot (you can go in the altogether, or so I've heard). But I think the biggest treat is just being on the ferry itself. It's a short ride, but such fun!

Sweet sign

2011-10-19T00:04:00.000-04:00

A very inviting shop in Saugatuck, Michigan. I could do with a cupcake about now. Photo taken in June 2011. To see more signs from around the world, visit Signs, Signs.

Saugatuck statues

2011-10-18T08:43:00.000-04:00

I found this work inside a public garden in Saugatuck, Michigan. Unfortunately, I can't remember the name of the garden or the artist. Any reminders would be appreciated. Photo taken in June 2011.

Village hall

2011-10-17T00:10:00.000-04:00

No quaint Victorian village would be complete without a picturesque town hall. This one is just too cute and it now houses a visitor's center.

Decay details

2011-10-16T00:06:00.000-04:00

One of the houses in Saugatuck that was once beautiful, but now has fallen into disrepair. Photo taken in June 2011.

Gallery reflections

2011-10-15T00:35:00.003-04:00

A look inside one of the artist galleries in Saugatuck. You can also see what's going on across the street as reflected in those grand windows. To see more reflective shots from around the world, visit Weekend Reflections.

Blue skies

2011-10-14T01:05:00.000-04:00

Blue skies shine bright over the harbor in Saugatuck. Photo taken in June 2011. To see more skies from around the world, visit Skywatch.