When it comes to beach destinations, Maldives has few rivals. More than 1,000 islands that sit in 26 reef-framed atolls. This Indian Ocean wonder offers infinite shades of blue & green sliding into patches of white sands & dark corals. A serene getaway, a culinary-focused luxury escape, a family surfing adventure, all in an eco-conscious environment. Getting there is half the fun – hopping onto a speed boat for a cruise from the airport or a thrilling ride to a far-flung atoll in a seaplane. Maldives – natural beauty beyond words…

Wherever you go in the Maldives, there is music. From bands playing in cafes in bustling Malé to the beating drums played during traditional festivals, to the sounds of nature above & below the ocean waves. A beautiful orchestra of experiences awaits.  

I have collected many natural sounds from my journeys to the Maldives. The waves crashing on the beach, the sound of shells held up to my ear, the wind against the trees. The ambiance is pure relaxation. The magical colours of the sky at sunset & sunrise, the unique underwater experiences makes my mind so calm & rejuvenates my soul.

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South Africa’s scale & diversity make it an ideal destination. Beautiful Cape Town is one of the most picturesque cities in the world with a backdrop of Table Mountain, the crashing waves of Indian & Atlantic Ocean. Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most abundant wildlife reserves. A perfect safari adventure. Explore the spectacular Garden Route with relentless views of soaring mountains & sandy beaches.

Robben Island – the notorious prison off the coast of Cape Town where Nelson Mandela was held during the apartheid era. Cape of Good Hope offers spectacular scenery along winding roads that end at Cape Point. Franschhoek & Stellenbosch restaurants & wines feature in global greats. Taste the best in class sauvignon blanc, merlot & chardonnay. Breath-taking natural beauty, serenity.

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Hawaii. Lush forests. Vast sandy bays. Rivers of molten lava. Glimmering ocean. Undoubtedly, a paradise. Unlike any other US state, far out in the Pacific. A dream location for adventurers, sun seekers. Chill on Waikiki Beach, marvel at fragile landscapes in the Volcanoes National Park. Drive the winding Hana Highway or head to the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbour to learn more about the Aloha State’s place at the heart of US history.

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On the west coast of Hawaii, the sun rises over tall volcanoes, glints off the vast blue Pacific at Honokohau Harbour. Tourists climb aboard cobalt boats in bright morning light, giddy at the prospect of swimming beside the Spinner Dolphins.  Explore the glistening ocean, emerald valleys & golden sands of Hawaiian Islands. Get lost in the spiritual beauty of the hula. Surf the gentle waves of Waikiki Beach, snorkel with Manta Rays on the Kona Coast. Hawaii is like no place on earth, absolutely stunning sunrises & sunsets. Aloha!

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Email: Partner’s birthday. Loves travel, art & colours. (Japan)

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Email: Sister’s birthday. Loves travel, local cultures & cuisines. (S. Korea)

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Taiwan. An island of unexpected beauty. Verdant valleys, hills & forests. Intrepid hikers can scale the Snow Mountain in Shei-pa National Park. A touch more sedate? Explore well-marked walks, wondrous views at Taroko Gorge. The capital, Taipei is one of Asia’s finest futuristic cities. Taipei 101 skyscraper is unmissable when strolling through brightly lit streets, night markets, street food stalls. Tradition has held firm. Bao-An Temple has been carefully restored to it’s former glory, a pocket of calm amid the bustle of Taiwan. Each year, thousands visit the village of Pingxi for the annual Lantern Festival. Write wishes on paper lanterns, release them into the sky for our ancestors to answer prayers.

Compared to fruit jam, Kavalan is an easy Taiwanese whisky, matured in sherry casks. Enjoy the Gua Bao, a traditional street food with a hearty filling of braised pork, pickled greens, powdered peanut & coriander, sandwiched between a fluffy clam-shaped steamed Bao. Absolutely unforgettable.

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Email: Grandad’s 80th birthday. Loves photography, travel. (Finland)

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Egypt. Forever associated with the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx & Valley of the Kings. Egypt’s allure goes way beyond the archeological mysteries still being uncovered. Capital Cairo is an adventure in itself, best in class museums. In the Red Sea resorts of Sinai Peninsula, we can soak up the classic sun, sea & sand along with one of our planet’s greatest diving locations. Towards the Mediterranean Sea, the Nile River runs through the heart of Egypt, as captivating to the Pharaohs as it is to modern day travellers. Cruise past it’s palm tree-clad shorelines with awe-inspiring ancient wonders. Fantastic food, magical music & beautiful belly dance. Charmed by mysterious tales of the Egyptian Gods, the legend of Queen Nefertiti, one of the most beautiful queen’s in the world.

A once in a lifetime experience, an unforgettable oasis.

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A humble note to inform a short pause in new posts.

Thanks, appreciated.

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Email: Son’s 18th birthday. Loves surfing, the sea, water sports. (New Zealand)

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Greece. Ancient cities. Lively ports. Countless islands. A mediterranean location loved by sun & adventure seekers. Distant Rhodes, pretty Cephalonia, stunning Santorini, mythical Crete are spectacular locations for water sports, rest & relaxation. Beyond silver beaches, ancient civilisations await to be discovered. Athens Acropolis wows, while Marathon & Knossos are worthy of a visit. Thessaloniki thrums with youthful energy. Greece offers an undeniable creative buzz, a delectable cuisine, a vibrant vibe unmatched anywhere in Southern Europe.

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In Photography Rules, Paul Lowe offers over 150 bite-sized do’s & don’ts from Dorothea Lange, Don McCullin, Martin Parr, Rankin & Richard Avedon. Whether we’re a complete beginner using an iPhone seeking to improve our DSLR skills or a professional, there’s tips inspired by greatest photographers.

Photography Rules: Essential Dos & Don’ts From Great Photographers – Amazon

Making photographs – genre, composition, operational function, working with our subject, lighting, print. Being a photographer – attitude, creativity, understanding. Professional practice – do’s & don’ts, developing career & collaborations. 

A perfect introduction to photography with an endless inspiration to pursue our passions.

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