London, Sunday March 27 London was battered by rioters yesterday. Piggybacking on a planned peaceful march against government cuts, a mob of masked extremists wielding wooden sticks, street signs and assorted clubs attacked banks, hotels and shops. In Piccadilly The Ritz Hotel, banks and Fortnum and Masons department store were prime … [Read more...]
Hong Kong Notebook
My first visit to Hong Kong was time-capsule perfect. Floral frocks, tea at The Peninsula and drinks on the veranda. Second time the sun had set on that era. With new ground rules, bird flu and Sars there was a pause for reinvention. Fast forward to the present. On my most recent sortie I found Hong Kong beyond vibrant, exciting and energetic and … [Read more...]
Overland on the Ancient Silk Road
Last Spring I traveled the Ancient Silk Road. It was a long time ambition. I did not know it would change my life. Epiphany Moment The idea of the Silk Road had shimmered on the periphery of my imagination for decades. In Herat, Afghanistan, there is a mausoleum with a unique ribbed dome. Years ago, when Afghanistan was peaceful, I sat … [Read more...]
Santa’s Sleigh…Christmas Eve Round Up
As Santa fills those sacks with toys, and then checks whose been naughty or nice, here are a few seasonal images and thoughts: Oh Tannenbaum! The Christmas tree is the icon of the season. A tradition in Germany, it was first brought to England by Prince Albert, husband of Queen Victoria. It now comes in every possible variation, shape, … [Read more...]
Singin’ in the Rain
A triangular box arrived on Tuesday. Brown cardboard, over three feet long and a total mystery. Serendipity I thought. What I really need is a new tripod. Was this a shiny new model which would enable me to take drop dead gorgeous photographs? Was it sent by a well wisher or unknown admirer? I tackled the box. It was seriously sealed. … [Read more...]
