http://www.fotoalbum.lu/indexhttp://www.fotoalbum.lu/abouthttp://www.fotoalbum.lu/contacthttp://www.fotoalbum.lu/archivehttp://www.fotoalbum.lu/search-pagehttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Cambodia/G0000jWHJig0mhfo/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Malaysia/G0000FrThBfHehA4/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Chile/G0000691TRyRGhDg/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Argentina/G0000lJAjlolNocM/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Iceland/G0000F9P3TyPTJvI/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Scotland/G0000nhtrmuwLoeU/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/New-Zealand/G0000wlsPugC4ouY/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Corsica/G000065Uus_zR92E/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Czech-Republic/G0000Lqok2M9dIjk/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Peru/G0000F7n2_MJ4rPQ/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Laos/G0000dVu0o2YR9_I/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/Thailand/G0000xXK6giZqNFg/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery/100-Most-Recent-Photos/G0000G9KssHVa1mM/http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery-collection/Myanmar/C00005dH0.wMNsAQhttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery-collection/Indonesia/C0000l9AbNbZiFeYhttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery-collection/Nepal/C0000Rquek5Qdkyghttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/gallery-collection/India/C0000BO77.VBW7Tshttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DYNSjM4hheUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DYNSjM4hheU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0044.jpgMount Everest TrekOn the way from Phakding to Monjo we saw this himalayan sheepdog puppy. According to "Wikipedia" - The Himalayan Sheepdog, also referred to as the Bhote Kukur, is a livestock guardian dog that originated from Nepal. This mountain dog breed is closely similar to Indian mastiffs and the Tibetan Mastiff and may be related to the long-haired Kinnaur Sheepdog of Tibet. Naturally, Himalayan Sheepdogs enjoy outdoor lifestyles and are rarely seen beyond the regions of India and Nepal. As a powerful and robust breed, the Himalayan Sheepdog is mainly used for herding purposes. The Himalayan Sheepdog is regionally popular as both a loyal companion as well as a working dog.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VYqnm329YXkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VYqnm329YXk/fit=1000x1000/MG-7883.jpgIndian tailor in Itanagar marketAn Indian tailor working on a sewing machine along the market alley of Itanagar.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000S5pul29Z_.Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000S5pul29Z_.M/fit=1000x1000/MG-5522.jpgTrain ride from Hsipaw to MandalayThe trip from Hsipaw to Mandalay by train takes about 13 hours. On the route you will pass over the highest bridge in Myanmar called Gokteik Viaduct. According to "Wikipedia" - The Goteik viaduct (also known as Gohteik viaduct) is a railway trestle in Nawnghkio, western Shan State, Myanmar (also known as Burma). The bridge is between the two towns of Pyin U Lwin, the summer capital of the former British colonial administrators of Burma, and Lashio, the principal town of northern Shan State. It is the highest bridge in Myanmar and when it was completed, the largest railway trestle in the world. The bridge is located approximately 100 km northeast of Mandalay. The bridge was constructed in 1899 and completed in 1900 by Pennsylvania and Maryland Bridge Construction. The components were made by the Pennsylvania Steel Company, and the parts were shipped from the United States. The rail line was constructed as a way for the British Empire to expand their influence in the region. The construction project was overseen by Sir Arthur Rendel, engineer for the Burma Railroad Company.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uJGkz.PYUgshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uJGkz.PYUgs/fit=1000x1000/MG-8322.jpgMithun sacrifice in Tajang and Bulla Lemba area.During Murung festival many Mithunes are sacrificed. As soon the animal collapses, rice powder is stuffed into its mouth and its body is stabbed several times.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009nKsehWeg64https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009nKsehWeg64/fit=1000x1000/MG-9266.jpgOiramghatOpposit to the ferry ghat (Oiramghat) we had a nice view of the landscape.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000c49vLkM_lokhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000c49vLkM_lok/fit=1000x1000/MG-8445.jpgKids in Tajang and Bulla Lemba area.Two kids posing for the camera in Tajang and Bulla Lemba area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000qhA30qZSee8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000qhA30qZSee8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8371.jpgKids playing at Hong villageWhile we are walking through Hong village many boys are playing along there houses.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zaeSqG6uLpkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zaeSqG6uLpk/fit=1000x1000/MG-8575.jpgAdi tribe settlement in Kabu villageWe started a 6-7 day trek from Kabu, a small Adi tribe village set near Yomgo River also known as Siyom River, both tributaries of Brahmaputra River. Kabu village is located in the Along circle, West Siang District.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A.jlhFPSIYchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A.jlhFPSIYc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0079.jpgLago Argentino in Los Glaciares National ParkThe one day boat excursion in Los Glaciares National Park is one of the touristic highlights in the patagonian region. I took the photo of this boat - where tourists were crammed like sardines, while we were drinking a glas of whisky, cooled by some 5000-year-old ice cubes from a floating glacier fragment in our large and comfortable boat :-)http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000y5by.SWHYyshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000y5by.SWHYys/fit=1000x1000/MG-8791.jpgTiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai (Lake of Young Men and Maidens) and Tiwu Ata Polo (Bewitched or Enchanted Lake) at Kelimutu National ParkTwo of the three lakes in Kelimutu National Park. Behind you can see "Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai" (Lake of Young Men and Maidens) and "Tiwu Ata Polo" (Bewitched or Enchanted Lake) in the foreground.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_0_94gR4ljwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_0_94gR4ljw/fit=1000x1000/MG-7154.jpgNear Kyauk Phyu Gyi Buddha ImageOld stupas near Kyauk Phyu Gyi Buddha Image, approximately 1 km south of Nyaungshwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uPYQF_acApghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uPYQF_acApg/fit=1000x1000/MG-7120.jpgPhaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in NyaungshweA group of young monks during Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in Nyaungshwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000._xiepzT4cwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000._xiepzT4cw/fit=1000x1000/MG-5392.jpgU Bein Bridge in AmarapuraA monk crossing the U Bein Bridge shortly before sunset.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H5RUvRtb3iMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H5RUvRtb3iM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5376.jpgAmarapuraThis photo was taken near the famous U Bein Bridge in Amarapura, a township of Mandalay.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008V49FbpgRDshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008V49FbpgRDs/fit=1000x1000/MG-5362.jpgNyaungshweA man fixing a cable on a telephone pole along a street in Nyaung Shwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002VXRt6YcYf4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002VXRt6YcYf4/fit=1000x1000/MG-5359.jpgNyaungshweOur boatman steering his speedboat back to our guesthouse in Nyaung Shwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rMCLUF9O9Wohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rMCLUF9O9Wo/fit=1000x1000/MG-5343.jpgNyaungshweAs we arrived near a floating village we made a last stop at a restaurant for relaxing a while and look how the people drive their boats.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005R_D6XJfayEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005R_D6XJfayE/fit=1000x1000/MG-5330.jpgHiking in the Shan HillsThe local people were also interested to take pictures. There were a lot of villagers surrounding our hut and we learned how to use a slingshot. The chief invited us again to eat piles of rice, eggs and vegetables for breakfast... until our stomachs explodes and the rice came out of our ears. One hour later, we were ready for our way back...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TV04jyMb5rQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TV04jyMb5rQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-5260.jpgNyaungshweSince ever women carry their children this way, all around Asia.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cOicj6Dkq1Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cOicj6Dkq1Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-5248.jpgNyaungshweThis two kids were shy, but very happy to pose for the camera.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000S40USdT_GvEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000S40USdT_GvE/fit=1000x1000/MG-5224.jpgNyaungshweAfter i lost the control of the water buffalo causing the dissatisfaction of the farmer and the devastation of his field, we decided to turn back to Nyaung Shwe. On our way back, another farmer was pouring seedlings along the field.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gCpJHNP.iqkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gCpJHNP.iqk/fit=1000x1000/MG-5200.jpgNyaungshweA young farmer using a water buffalo to plough the field. You need some practise to control this huge animal. I tried to plough the same field with another buffalo, but i failed miserably.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CvsIVhnvYlEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CvsIVhnvYlE/fit=1000x1000/MG-5190.jpgNyaungshweA boy looking out the window as we passed his house under a hot midday sun.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UvcQV3lyZXMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UvcQV3lyZXM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5078.jpgInle LakeStill cruising and enjoying the views around Inle Lake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009bsZJH37eTchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009bsZJH37eTc/fit=1000x1000/MG-5087.jpgInle LakeThe boats are means of water transport on Inle lake. Behind the boat driven by a woman you can see swimming gardens.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008521qquWSiUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008521qquWSiU/fit=1000x1000/MG-5053.jpgInle LakeTwo women transporting handwoven bamboo baskets with their boat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007lQS8yCjO4ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007lQS8yCjO4g/fit=1000x1000/MG-5031.jpgInle LakeView on an old stupa near the shore of Inle Lake. According to "Wikipedia" - The stupa is the latest Buddhist religious monument and was originally only a simple mound of mud or clay to cover supposed relics of the Buddha (cetiya). After the parinirvana of the Buddha, his remains were cremated and the ashes divided and buried under eight stupas with two further stupas encasing the urn and the embers. Little is known about these early stupas, particularly since it has not been possible to identify the original ten monuments. However, some later stupas, such as at Sarnath and Sanchi, seem to be embellishments of earlier mounds.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Dz.3dr.cZZYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Dz.3dr.cZZY/fit=1000x1000/MG-5036.jpgInle LakeAn oncoming boat steered by two young burmese ladies.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cUh52HnPhf8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cUh52HnPhf8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5030.jpgInle LakeA woman dozing in a boat on Inle lake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E6cAchrmFkohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E6cAchrmFko/fit=1000x1000/MG-4961.jpgInle LakeWe stopped the first time at a place where we saw two long-neck women. In Thailand all of these women are more or less required as a tourist attraction, like animals in a zoo. I read in some pages that it is not the case in their homeland, Myanmar, where they are primarly selling things to locals or to the tourists. The two women we saw in the hut were selling nothing, just giving forced smiles to the tourists.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000w2NfqGZsoq0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000w2NfqGZsoq0/fit=1000x1000/MG-4933.jpgInle LakeAs the landlubber i am, i'm still asking myself how to climb into a small boat without falling into the water. Then, when i've safely entered the boat, i'm still a danger for the passengers when i'm trying to sit down, causing the boat's shaking.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FdP8ZF6l9E8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FdP8ZF6l9E8/fit=1000x1000/MG-4923.jpgInle LakeAccording to "Wikipedia" - Local fishermen are known for practicing a distinctive rowing style which involves standing at the stern on one leg and wrapping the other leg around the oar. This unique style evolved for the reason that the lake is covered by reeds and floating plants making it difficult to see above them while sitting. Standing provides the rower with a view beyond the reeds. However, the leg rowing style is only practiced by the men. Women row in the customary style, using the oar with their hands, sitting cross legged at the stern.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j3_Rv3VBTbAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j3_Rv3VBTbA/fit=1000x1000/MG-4918.jpgInle LakeThe same man is inspecting his net. In the background you can see another fisher probably looking for a good place.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000p96ZNNRwebQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000p96ZNNRwebQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-4916.jpgInle LakeA man is spreading out his net to catch fishes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000THUEVXWZEbUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000THUEVXWZEbU/fit=1000x1000/MG-4883.jpgInle LakeMany locals, like this young man, become fishermen like their fathers.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000q1M5SCx2C6chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000q1M5SCx2C6c/fit=1000x1000/MG-6687.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweAccording to "Wikitravel" - Most people use Sittwe as a stopping point for Mrauk U and rarely spend time in the city. However, a brief visit is well-rewarded. At sunset, visit The Point at the end of the Strand (50 kyat admission fee) for a glimpse of the sun setting over the Bay of Bengal. Walk back along the Strand to the City Point Restaurant for some beer and music by the water. The city is also known for its fruit bats which take wing by the hundreds at dusk.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xPu16GsU9XMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xPu16GsU9XM/fit=1000x1000/MG-6650.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweToday the Kaladan river is the fifth largest river in the world which is not confined by a dam.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pDIVJMuhkLkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pDIVJMuhkLk/fit=1000x1000/MG-6641.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweDue to political opportunism, every nation pursue their own interests often to others detriment. Perversely, the European Union were supporting humanitarian projects while some members of the same Union were supporting the dictatorship in the development of energy resources years ago, which will provide in the future the neighboring countries with nearly 90% hydropower energy, providing nothing for the exploited local people.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000g5b7V.lxEQUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000g5b7V.lxEQU/fit=1000x1000/MG-6636.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweThe building of Hydropower dams is another considerable source of money for the burmese government. A lot of people in the world blame the Chinese or the Indian for beeing irresponsible but they have no idea about the financial interests of many european companies and investors.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dJM90a2j2OQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dJM90a2j2OQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0265.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageLocals, mainly young ladies, during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ikFzzsGF2A8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ikFzzsGF2A8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0151.jpgMrauk UStreet scene in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MAOy7q20enghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MAOy7q20eng/fit=1000x1000/MG-0148.jpgMrauk UA woman carrying an umbrella to block the midday sun on a noisy street in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000huQxMO2I5CUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000huQxMO2I5CU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0145.jpgGirl posing in Mrauk UA girl posing near my guesthouse in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H6vBNRaztpwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H6vBNRaztpw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0130.jpgMrauk UThree young ladies walking in the midday sun leaving Ratanabon Pagoda and Htukkanthein Temple behind their.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jYvrsE8Ftmkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jYvrsE8Ftmk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0119.jpgMrauk UA boy standing near a small river in a settlement outside the center of Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ma8tzCi9fwEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ma8tzCi9fwE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0086.jpgMrauk ULocal people walking from their villages on a road leading to the main temple area of Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000l3_ppEcBCyghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000l3_ppEcBCyg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0110.jpgMrauk UA girl and her little sister posing in a village near the Mrauk U temples.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000M_W.0o1SkCEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000M_W.0o1SkCE/fit=1000x1000/MG-7011.jpgShwedagon Pagoda in YangonYangon's famous Shwedagon Pagoda at dusk.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002GS4T602x4Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002GS4T602x4A/fit=1000x1000/MG-5876.jpgBaganA monk passing through a hallway in Bagan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Nr9U6Bnezx8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Nr9U6Bnezx8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5835.jpgBaganA local woman sitting in a trishaw in Bagan. Trishaws are the most basic means of transportation in Myanmar.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008.d7VyE57t8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008.d7VyE57t8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5833.jpgBaganBack on the ground, we went for lunch and enjoyed our daily burmese "Risi Bisi" while we were planing our next trip to Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sqhYXb_zO84https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sqhYXb_zO84/fit=1000x1000/MG-5809.jpgBaganOne of the most noticeable sight in the temple complex is the shining golden stupa of the Dhammayazika Pagoda. You can use the Dhammayazika Pagoda as an orientation point, if you have constantly orientation problems like me.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002De7DzY0EIghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002De7DzY0EIg/fit=1000x1000/MG-5799.jpgBaganThe five terraced, white Shwesandaw Pagoda in the middle of other buddhistic edifices.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CDIE1of2SEshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CDIE1of2SEs/fit=1000x1000/MG-5802.jpgBaganA balloon approaching the Htilominlo temple, the last builded edifice of its style.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iPoHg8peZjAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iPoHg8peZjA/fit=1000x1000/MG-5797.jpgBaganBagan temples under the morning sunlight.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KGhFVGp0Nbwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KGhFVGp0Nbw/fit=1000x1000/MG-5794.jpgBaganThere is so much to see and i don't know in which direction i have to turn into the balloon, to face the best photo motifs.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000REl6c_G84tYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000REl6c_G84tY/fit=1000x1000/MG-5792.jpgBaganFirst impressions of the temple complex from the air.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005.C2LkTyKukhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005.C2LkTyKuk/fit=1000x1000/MG-5738.jpgBaganIt's not surprising to see overloaded vehicles on the streets of Bagan. Effective space management "made in Burma".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dqhJb3TVwvshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dqhJb3TVwvs/fit=1000x1000/MG-5690.jpgBaganAccording to "Wikipedia" - In the 12th and 13th centuries, Bagan became a truly cosmopolitan centre of Buddhist studies, attracting monks and students from as far as India, Sri Lanka as well as the Thai and Khmer kingdoms. Among many other works, Aggavamsa's influential Saddani-ti, a grammar of the language of the Tipitaka, would be completed there in 1154. In 1287, the kingdom fell to the Mongols, after refusing to pay tribute to Kublai Khan. Abandoned by the Burmese king and perhaps sacked by the Mongols, the city declined as a political centre, but continued to flourish as a place of Buddhist scholarship.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BrocvPmHyFghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BrocvPmHyFg/fit=1000x1000/MG-5545.jpgMandalayAccording to "Wikipedia" - throughout the colonial years, Mandalay was the center of Burmese culture and Buddhist learning, and as the last royal capital, was regarded by the Burmese as a primary symbol of sovereignty and identity. Between the two World Wars, the city was Upper Burma's focal point in a series of nationwide protests against the British rule. The British rule brought in many immigrants from India to the city. In 1904-1905, a plague caused about one-third of the population to flee the city. Many again fled the city during World War II when the city was under Japanese occupation from May 1942 to March 1945. The city suffered heavy damage. The palace citadel, turned into a supply depot by the Japanese, was burnt to the ground by Allied bombing; only the royal mint and the watch tower survived.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fZs3JZ5gw1whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fZs3JZ5gw1w/fit=1000x1000/MG-4781.jpgYangonA street scenery in front of our guesthouse in Yangon.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000eKxsXI9CV3ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000eKxsXI9CV3o/fit=1000x1000/MG-5489.jpgPyin U Lwin National Botanical GardenWith about 345 acres, the Pyin U Lwin National Botanical Garden is certainly the most beautiful garden in Myanmar. The garden offers you an nice opportunity to take a break before going back to the city of Pyin U Lwin also known as Maymyo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gR9mkxeiFcMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gR9mkxeiFcM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2817.jpgDhulikhelFour Nepalese boys standing at the opposite side of the bus station in Dhulikhel.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Wt5YsvdfIXkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Wt5YsvdfIXk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2789.jpgKirtipurAccording to "Wikipedia" - In 1767, Kirtipur was annexed to the Gorkhali kingdom by Prithvi Narayan following the Battle of Kirtipur. He took the town on his third attempt, after entering it by trickery. After this, he cut off the noses and lips of everybody in the city.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000__I0LVGcHYohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000__I0LVGcHYo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2802.jpgDhulikhelA bus station in Dhulikhel.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000S3MOy3G4i8Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000S3MOy3G4i8E/fit=1000x1000/MG-2786.jpgKirtipurKirtipur, an old Newari city, is located in Kathmandu Valley, 5km southwest from Kathmandu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OxAr.oOHXYohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OxAr.oOHXYo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2780.jpgKirtipurPortrait of a girl and her mother in Kirtipur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008CUbYyxUFsMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008CUbYyxUFsM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2779.jpgKirtipurA suspicious little girl in Kirtipur, putting her hand on her mother's shoulder while i'm trying to get a smile from her.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007oK5mpWakWIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007oK5mpWakWI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2778.jpgKirtipurPortrait of a girl living in Kirtipur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IWWaiouUyckhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IWWaiouUyck/fit=1000x1000/MG-2775.jpgKirtipurA little girl washing dishes on a sidewalk in Kirtipur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TOY1u2bJ76Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TOY1u2bJ76Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-2228.jpgKathmanduA rickshaw driver stucked in the middle of a dense crowd in Kathmandu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xOT.hmNNE0ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xOT.hmNNE0o/fit=1000x1000/MG-2212.jpgKhokanaA local Newari man standing near a barrel in Khokana.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000f7PmO0HwIcchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000f7PmO0HwIcc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2204.jpgKhokanaView on himalayan mountains, as seen from Khokana village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000V9NnOAMOgzYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000V9NnOAMOgzY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2200.jpgKhokanaA woman ploughing a field in Khokana.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vj8mzbDg304https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vj8mzbDg304/fit=1000x1000/MG-2202.jpgKhokanaTwo girls posing for the camera.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Swt6emSSujEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Swt6emSSujE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2190.jpgKhokanaA main street in Khokana, a village set in Kathmandu Valley.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ldXzrYQhydwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ldXzrYQhydw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2198.jpgKhokanaStreet scene in Khokana.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000L3OdkQBiLmAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000L3OdkQBiLmA/fit=1000x1000/MG-1544.jpgKathmanduA calf, probably painted during the festival of lights, hugged by a Nepalese woman at Durbar Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dPbuqdZHeNUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dPbuqdZHeNU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1525.jpgKathmanduAn elderly Buddhist woman walking around Boudhanath Stupa. According to "Wikipedia" - Tibetan merchants have rested and offered prayers here for many centuries. When refugees entered Nepal from Tibet in the 1950s, many decided to live around Bouddhanath.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_bpuS1Zei5Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_bpuS1Zei5Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-1511.jpgKathmanduBuddhists circumambulate Boudhanath stupa while a woman is spinning one of the prayer wheels around the stupa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lJ00pdPRFlwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lJ00pdPRFlw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1505.jpgKathmanduAccording to "Wikitravel" - The influx of large populations of refugees from Tibet has seen the construction of over 50 Tibetan Gompas (Monasteries) around Boudhanath. As of 1979, Boudhanath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along with Swayambhunath, it is one of the most popular tourist sites in the Kathmandu area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006rD7uyePCsQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006rD7uyePCsQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1487.jpgKathmanduA pilgrim holding a praying wheel as she walks around Boudhanath, one of the most important place for pilgrimage in Nepal.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nl_7UoUNauMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nl_7UoUNauM/fit=1000x1000/MG-1410.jpgDurbar Square in PatanSunset on Durbar Square in Patan, a city in Kathmandu Valley, also known by its Sanskrit name, Lalitpur. The temple on the left is Krishna Mandir, the most significant temple in Patan's Durbar Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vjgYVKp47i4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vjgYVKp47i4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1361.jpgBhaktapurA street between Taumadhi Square and Khalna Tole Square. Bhaktapur also called Bhadgaon, which means "City of Rice" is listed as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO since 1979.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009DC1Nf78GvQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009DC1Nf78GvQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1342.jpgPashupatinathA dead body, just before beeing prepared for the cremation on Bhasmeshvar Ghat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zH3ASgqADqAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zH3ASgqADqA/fit=1000x1000/MG-1336.jpgPashupatinathListed by the UNESCO, Pashupatinath, probably the most important Hindu temple in Nepal, is located in Kathmandu near the banks of the Bagmati River. For tourists Pashupatinath is most known for the cremations which take place on the stairs, better known as ghats.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BVtyd9Lch5Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BVtyd9Lch5M/fit=1000x1000/MG-1304.jpgBhaktapurPortrait of a Nepalese man standing near a temple at Durbar Square, Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oZRDBBcxlQohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oZRDBBcxlQo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1317.jpgDurbar Square in BhaktapurSunset on Bhaktapur's Durbar Square with the octagonal Chyasilin Mandapam Temple on the left, the statue of King Bhupatindra Malla in the center and the Vatsala Durga Temple on the right.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OTOg2W1dvRQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OTOg2W1dvRQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1289.jpgBhaktapurA Naga statue looking over the snake water tank of Naga Pokhari set in the royal palace at Bhaktapur's Durbar Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003P9xi0GYrVEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003P9xi0GYrVE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1237.jpgMadhyapur ThimiTwo women and a boy sitting in the middle of the pottery in Thimi. Madhyapur Thimi is famous for its pottery production.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000g5Y.42_Yvyohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000g5Y.42_Yvyo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1201.jpgBhaktapurAccording to "Wikipedia", Bhaktapur - ... is the home of traditional art and architecture, historical monuments and craft works, magnificent windows, pottery and weaving industries, excellent temples, beautiful ponds, rich local customs, culture, religion, festivals, musical mystic and so on. Bhaktapur is still an untouched as well as preserved ancient city that is itself a world to explore for tourists. From time immemorial it lay on the trade route between Tibet and India. This position on the main caravan route made the town rich and prosperous.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000l6k8mChEXjAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000l6k8mChEXjA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0981.jpgChitwan National ParkAccording to "Wikipedia" - Chitwan National Park is the first national park in Nepal. Formerly called Royal Chitwan National Park it was established in 1973 and granted the status of a World Heritage Site in 1984. It covers an area of 932 km2 (360 sq mi) and is located in the subtropical Inner Terai lowlands of south-central Nepal in the Chitwan District.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WN9i6efjoNohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WN9i6efjoNo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0960.jpgChitwan National ParkA nepalese mahout sitting on his elephant.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000k2jhuTbm0YIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000k2jhuTbm0YI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0944.jpgChitwan National ParkAn elephant grazing in Chitwan National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000047z_cTYJCIAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000047z_cTYJCIA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0946.jpgChitwan National ParkNepalese ladies clapping while listening a group playing music in Chitwan National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W4rKJsHcltIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W4rKJsHcltI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0885.jpgBandipurAccording to "Wikipedia" - In the 1970s, when the first demonstrations for democracy took place in Nepal, the people of Bandipur stormed the little garrison. Several people were killed and the soldiers fled. Again, when the district headquarters were to be moved, the people demonstrated and occupied the administration. The civil servants fled during the night. Even the king was flown in by helicopter to calm the situation. However, the decline of the little town could not be reversed. Some relics of its wealthy past remain. Although many houses are in bad condition, the typical Newari architecture is preserved.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EDMRRERrGzwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EDMRRERrGzw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0861.jpgBandipurBandipur seen from a hilltop.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CwYLuQW4gbwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CwYLuQW4gbw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0872.jpgBandipurTwo women carrying sacks of rice in the main street of Bandipur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wWKDq2Bdau8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wWKDq2Bdau8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0859.jpgBandipurSmall paths along a temple set in the middle of vegetation.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vUDJxna6SF4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vUDJxna6SF4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0856.jpgBandipurTwo huts in the middle of rice fields.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VnQHD4kCJXkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VnQHD4kCJXk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0844.jpgBandipurA part of Bandipur with some mustard terraces seen from a hill.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000y_HkkBIXtEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000y_HkkBIXtE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0842.jpgGirl in BandipurPortrait of a young girl sitting on his father's lap.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Z1kqrmDeYnwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Z1kqrmDeYnw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0838.jpgBandipurMen playing cards along the main street in Bandipur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000e2D5rT7hT_whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000e2D5rT7hT_w/fit=1000x1000/MG-0810.jpgPokharaMen loading rice straws onto a trailer in Pokhara.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QDXmYW7IA7shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QDXmYW7IA7s/fit=1000x1000/MG-0781.jpgPokharaA woman harvesting rice in Pokhara.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000h6bKEmQEdKEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000h6bKEmQEdKE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0163.jpgBoudhanath Stupa in KathmanduTwo Buddhist monks walking around Boudhanath stupa, one of the largest stupa in the world. The Buddhist site of Boudhanath is located in Kathmandu and easily reachable for tourists.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zRR7xBQFQIghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zRR7xBQFQIg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0742.jpgStudent in KathmanduA student in front of Buddha figures set close to the Kathesimbhu stupa, a few minutes walk away from Thamel.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000onFvqV5tT6ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000onFvqV5tT6o/fit=1000x1000/MG-1106.jpgMount Everest TrekA male himalayan Tahr, close to the pathway between Somare and Pangboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_q7ToKOgb24https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_q7ToKOgb24/fit=1000x1000/MG-1029.jpgMount Everest TrekA little girl leaning on her doorframe in Dingboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OaTFAd0CoYghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OaTFAd0CoYg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0950.jpgMount Everest TrekFrom Gorak Shep to Lobuche with view on the Everest West Shoulder and Nuptse (7861m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VW2.4PJFLOUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VW2.4PJFLOU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0910.jpgMount Everest TrekWay to Mount Everest Base Camp. Picture taken near Gorak Shep.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PgpzI810vOEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PgpzI810vOE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0837.jpgMount Everest TrekAndré and Cécile standing on the top of Kala Pattar, with view on the southwest.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lj6iHmGh0j4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lj6iHmGh0j4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0535.jpgMount Everest TrekA boy having lunch along the path leading from Mongla to Phortse.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WBavWcx8ptwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WBavWcx8ptw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0368.jpgMount Everest TrekTyndall effect surrounding the two peaks of the Rolwaling mountains, Panayo Toppa (6696m), and Teng Kangboche (6500m). Seen from Thame.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zYbf5.4tsL0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zYbf5.4tsL0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0087.jpgMount Everest TrekAma Dablam (6856m), seen on the way up from Namche Bazar to "Everest View Hotel".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000077MK07mbB4Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000077MK07mbB4E/fit=1000x1000/MG-0046.jpgMount Everest TrekA hanging incense burner. From Phakding to Monjo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000huYyiMjxZ2Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000huYyiMjxZ2I/fit=1000x1000/MG-0014.jpgMount Everest TrekTwo loaded Dzos between Lukla and Phakding. The Dzo is a cross between a yak and a cow.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NlrITbowkgohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NlrITbowkgo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0218.jpgHelambu TrekA valley with ricefields, seen between Chisapani und Pati Bhanjyang on the Helambu Trek.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009gVl44fAIlIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009gVl44fAIlI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2214.jpgParacas National ReserveThe american oystercatcher is one of the shorebirds you can observe at Paracas National Reserve.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Z_GiIHnKHQohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Z_GiIHnKHQo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2211.jpgParacas National ReserveWheel tracks in the desert of Paracas National Reserve. According to "Wikipedia" - Established in 1975, it is the oldest marine reserve in Peru, and it incorporates a variety of marine habitats and tropical desert. In addition to the biological areas, the reserve protects prehistoric sites of the Paracas culture and other ancient civilizations. Near the museum is the Paracas Necropolis (100 BCE - CE 300), comprising the burial sites known as the Cabezas Largas and Cerro Colorado, where Julio C. Tello found many fine grave goods buried with mummified remains of the Paracas elite.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000b2_U4WPz5x8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000b2_U4WPz5x8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2172.jpgParacas National ReservePlaya Roja, the famous red sand beach in Paracas National Reserve.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xYScBvNKv8Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xYScBvNKv8U/fit=1000x1000/MG-2044.jpgNazca LinesView on the tree with a series of branches and roots, and two reaching hands on the right.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nRTbUtJ7mDQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nRTbUtJ7mDQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1160.jpgArchaeological site of PisacView on the landscape around the Inca Písac ruins.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002EuRXtCyeochttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002EuRXtCyeoc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1092.jpgBetween Lamay Village and Coya VIllageThese guinea pigs, called cuy in Peru were grilled somewhere between Lamay Village and Coya Village. According to "Wikipedia" - Peruvians consume an estimated 65 million guinea pigs each year.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000qqe0tk152VIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000qqe0tk152VI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0927.jpgSalinas de MarasThe Salinas de Maras ponds were already used by the Incas, if not earlier.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rnb5vc_IUC8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rnb5vc_IUC8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0899.jpgSalinas de MarasThe salt ponds of Maras are located in the sacred valley, north of Cusco.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003dwwLTqaqYohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003dwwLTqaqYo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0898.jpgSalinas de MarasView down over the salt evaporation ponds of Salinas de Maras.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000U9lgDPHXocMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000U9lgDPHXocM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0897.jpgSalinas de MarasView down over the salt evaporation ponds of Salinas de Maras.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BFOJQowBVfMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BFOJQowBVfM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0599.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuView over Machu Picchu just after sunrise with Huayna Picchu Mountain at the background and the main gate entrance, visible at the left side of the photo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AugtvTvKqLYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AugtvTvKqLY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0391.jpgBoys posing in SaywiteBoys posing near the Saywite monolith.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Wkg2QaDFAT0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Wkg2QaDFAT0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0385.jpgDriving from Ayacucho to AbancayMountain scenery along Ruta PE-3SD. Seen a couple of hours before reaching Abancay.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XRkAujcoV0Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XRkAujcoV0Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-0311.jpgAlong Route PE3SDThere are three types of sheeps in Peru: Corriedale, Criollo and Junin. The Junin is a typical Peruvian breed originally created by cross-breeding different sheeps in Junin, a town located in Central Peru.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Vq0OHDOGTpghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Vq0OHDOGTpg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0236.jpgDriving from Tarma to JaujaView on a valley somewhere between Tarma and Jauja on Route PE-3S.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EFrBQW4CcqQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EFrBQW4CcqQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0280.jpgPlaza de Armas in PampasAn elderly woman selling ice creams at Plaza de Armas in Pampas also known as Pampa Tayacaja.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000I.rGx6KcIf8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000I.rGx6KcIf8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0234.jpgDriving from Tarma to JaujaView on a valley with an animal enclosure. Seen somewhere between Tarma and Jauja on Route PE-3S.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008sPz7Q8XF3whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008sPz7Q8XF3w/fit=1000x1000/MG-0231.jpgDriving from Tarma to JaujaA van driving on Route PE-3S somewhere between Tarma and Jauja while we are driving the opposit direction, with Huancayo as our daily destination .http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cUwdtGgurWQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cUwdtGgurWQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0120.jpgGovernment Palace of PeruView of the government palace of Peru, taken from the Plaza de Armas.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dVJlerPqGUUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dVJlerPqGUU/fit=1000x1000/MG-7012.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PumvT3oLE8Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PumvT3oLE8Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-7002.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H6lwPlk8f64https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H6lwPlk8f64/fit=1000x1000/MG-6971.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002oXvwAiwyUchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002oXvwAiwyUc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6388.jpgViaduct Harbour in AucklandThe Viaduct Harbour is set in the heart of Auckland.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009IaenvaUPTwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009IaenvaUPTw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6237.jpgWooden-frame house in RotoruaA wooden-frame house under construction in Rotorua.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000075nU7QmvC.8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000075nU7QmvC.8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6189.jpgLawn bowling at the Government Gardens in RotoruaA man playing outdoor lawn bowling in Rotorua's colonial Government Gardens, set near the bathhouse building.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CFP9YYm079Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CFP9YYm079U/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6059.jpgTotaraunui Bay in Abel Tasman National ParkTotaraunui Bay is located in Abel Tasman National Park. Totaraunui Bay is 1km long and known for the orange-coloured sandy beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000n9Vm6YMINh4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000n9Vm6YMINh4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0280.jpgWat Ek Phnom Temple at BattambangWat Ek Phnom is a ruined temple located about 14km south-east from Battambang town. Very near the temple is a lake full of lotus flowers.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FXaEjHhiL7chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FXaEjHhiL7c/fit=1000x1000/MG-0203.jpgPhnom Sampeau hill at BattambangFrom the top of Phnom Sampeau you have a good view over the valley and the rice fields. Unfortunately Phnom Sampeau is best known for the "killing caves". According to "Wikipedia" - The killing caves of Phnom Sampeau are caves in Phnom Sampeau, a hill 7 miles (11 km) southwest of Battambang in Cambodia. Major atrocities occurred there during the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s. Many victims were bludgeoned to death and then tossed into holes which served as the skylights to the caves. Men and women were placed in separate caves and clothes in another.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vkHLS72YSd0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vkHLS72YSd0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0147.jpgGirl in BattambangGirl standing under heavy rain along the bamboo train railway.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000J.T4VwT0yIshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000J.T4VwT0yIs/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7218.jpgBanteay SreiRediscovered in 1914, the site of Banteay Srei was enduring a lot of incidents until the APSARA Authority and the Swiss government declared to be in charge for the conservation and restoring maintenance from 2002 to 2005. Unfortunately the site is still subject to vandalism and theft.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A1lH92gYvvEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A1lH92gYvvE/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7214.jpgBanteay Srei TempleThe richly decorated walls of the Banteay Srei temple were dedicated to the Hindu god Tribhuvanamaheshvara, also known as Shiva.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QqJLa7kkBQEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QqJLa7kkBQE/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7174.jpgTa ProhmAn ancient stone inscription in Ta Prohm indicates that over 16000 farmers were producing over 2500 tons of rice in a year, to feed the monks, the nuns, the workers and the dancers of Ta Prohm.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DFbzGj_iqIAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DFbzGj_iqIA/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7161.jpgTa ProhmTa Prohm was constructed under the Khmer King Jayavarman VII and dedicated to his mother.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005do7Ngd.Vx4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005do7Ngd.Vx4/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7146.jpgCambodian girl at Preah KhanA cambodian girl selling handmade items in Preah Khan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000e82TnhwZ1S8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000e82TnhwZ1S8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7145.jpgMonks at Preah KhanMonks posing near giant tree roots in Preah Khan. The damages on the khmer ruins caused by the growing force of heavy roots are unique on this part of the world. But no one can deny that this invading vegetation has its charm.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yEZLEALPT.Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yEZLEALPT.A/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7137.jpgPreah Khan wallPreah Khan was built by Jayavarman VII and dedicated to his father. The five kilometer square large ancient city is managed by the World Monuments Fund.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TZs8jtDTZ3Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TZs8jtDTZ3A/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7080.jpgBoy at Angkor Wat TempleLittle boy posing near the entrance of Angkor Wat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SEHqFqw36lshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SEHqFqw36ls/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7172.jpgTa ProhmAccording to "Wikipedia" - The temple of Ta Prohm was abandoned after the fall of the Khmer empire in the 15th century, and neglected for centuries. When the effort to conserve and restore the temples of Angkor began in the early 20th century, the École française d'Extrême-Orient decided that Ta Prohm would be left largely as it had been found, as a "concession to the general taste for the picturesque." According to pioneering Angkor scholar Maurice Glaize, Ta Prohm was singled out because it was "one of the most imposing "temples" and the one which had best merged with the jungle, but not yet to the point of becoming a part of it". Nevertheless, much work has been done to stabilize the ruins, to permit access, and to maintain this condition of apparent neglect".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000logDoHHIZTwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000logDoHHIZTw/fit=1000x1000/MG-4762.jpgHua HinWoman cooking thai sweets at the night market in Hua Hin.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000037B7.EkjxEEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000037B7.EkjxEE/fit=1000x1000/MG-4754.jpgHua HinWoman selling seafood at the night market in Hua Hin.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aKfPsn3BIfYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aKfPsn3BIfY/fit=1000x1000/MG-4752.jpgHua HinPancakes at Hua Hin night market.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rKv2f39lP2whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rKv2f39lP2w/fit=1000x1000/MG-4727.jpgHua Hin BeachPare building sand stupas on the beach in Hua Hin.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000T_ummdMOx8chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000T_ummdMOx8c/fit=1000x1000/MG-4659.jpgHua Hin train stationA man carrying boxes at Hua Hin train station.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000s2ZawYqPvlohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000s2ZawYqPvlo/fit=1000x1000/MG-4655.jpgHua Hin train stationAccording to "Wikipedia" - Hua Hin Railway Station is a train station located in Hua Hin Subdistrict; Hua Hin District; Prachuap Khiri Khan Province; and is located 212.99 kilometres (132.3 mi) from Thon Buri Railway Station. It is a class 1 railway station on the Southern Line.; On the premises; there is an old 305 Unit Baldwin steam locomotive on display. Hua Hin Station has been considered to be the most beautiful station in Thailandhttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HMO6XHcjokIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HMO6XHcjokI/fit=1000x1000/MG-4632.jpgHua Hin train stationA woman selling food to a monk at Hua Hin train station.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Fm7vLDlqKjQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Fm7vLDlqKjQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-4607.jpgRanongMae Mai Bay seen from the Blue Sky Resort.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xupneKixZZchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xupneKixZZc/fit=1000x1000/MG-4604.jpgRanongCashew nuts spread on the ground for drying in Ranong.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uR5FY48ezWEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uR5FY48ezWE/fit=1000x1000/MG-4587.jpgKoh PhayamPirate boat :-), including Hippy bar on Ao Khao Kwai Beach in Koh Phayam.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HH8U9_PNwOwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HH8U9_PNwOw/fit=1000x1000/MG-4583.jpgKoh PhayamColorful sky and sea during sunset in Koh Phayam.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W.LxdBbTLAUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W.LxdBbTLAU/fit=1000x1000/MG-4582.jpgKoh PhayamSunset at Koh Phayam.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002gnR5evLuQQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002gnR5evLuQQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-4567.jpgKoh PhayamThere are over 50 different Hornbill species in the world.13 species have been recorded in Thailand.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005lGFoK7ZB2whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005lGFoK7ZB2w/fit=1000x1000/MG-4564.jpgKoh PhayamAccording to "Wikipedia" - Great hornbills are found in the forests of India, Bhutan, Nepal, Mainland Southeast Asia, Indonesian Island of Sumatra and North eastern region of India. The distribution of the species is fragmented over its range in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000X7SiGjAISDkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000X7SiGjAISDk/fit=1000x1000/MG-4561.jpgHibiscusHibiscus flower in Koh Phayam.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AU8ea_F72UUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AU8ea_F72UU/fit=1000x1000/MG-4510.jpgKoh PhayamA Hornbill sitting on a tree branch in Koh Phayam.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E8L_MEtMxVshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E8L_MEtMxVs/fit=1000x1000/MG-4479.jpgKoh PhayamHarbour in Koh Phayam.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005Em01YsNSzkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005Em01YsNSzk/fit=1000x1000/MG-4391.jpgAyutthayaWat Mahathat in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LNzOro8C.9ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LNzOro8C.9g/fit=1000x1000/MG-4389.jpgAyutthayaBuddha head surrounded by tree roots at Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UKDlBiGTEYchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UKDlBiGTEYc/fit=1000x1000/MG-4404.jpgAyutthayaAn openbill sitting on a street lamp in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ehol.lQLwNEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ehol.lQLwNE/fit=1000x1000/MG-4384.jpgAyutthayaBuddha head surrounded by tree roots at Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W8AtEuUgD24https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W8AtEuUgD24/fit=1000x1000/MG-4373.jpgAyutthayaWat Mahathat in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000y6Mhpgl8XJ8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000y6Mhpgl8XJ8/fit=1000x1000/MG-4376.jpgAyutthayaTree roots spreading around a large area at Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wSUtquSmEAwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wSUtquSmEAw/fit=1000x1000/MG-4355.jpgAyutthayaBuddha head surrounded by tree roots at Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GQ9G7IoAu0Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GQ9G7IoAu0U/fit=1000x1000/MG-4367.jpgAyutthayaWat Mahathat in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FW5NW_Kde8Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FW5NW_Kde8I/fit=1000x1000/MG-4349.jpgAyutthayaRow of Buddha statues around the stupa of Wat Yai Chai Mongkol in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000L_25fZWjoDUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000L_25fZWjoDU/fit=1000x1000/MG-4311.jpgAyutthayaBuddhist temple comples Wat Chai Watthanaram in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DVIb7n2Oy3Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DVIb7n2Oy3Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-4340.jpgAyutthayaBuddha statue near Wat Yai Chai Mongkol in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xgeywR.vJZwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xgeywR.vJZw/fit=1000x1000/MG-4305.jpgAyutthayaBuddhist temple complex Wat Chai Watthanaram in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000b.gHO2pl21Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000b.gHO2pl21Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-4302.jpgAyutthayaStatue located in the Wat Chai Watthanaram complex in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LuPhuHUnit8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LuPhuHUnit8/fit=1000x1000/MG-4299.jpgAyutthayaBuddhist temple complex Wat Chai Watthanaram in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000REsudCHsjghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000REsudCHsjg/fit=1000x1000/MG-4289.jpgAyutthayaBuddhist temple complex Wat Chai Watthanaram in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000p1gswGtfD2Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000p1gswGtfD2Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-4285.jpgAyutthayaA man and his daughter driving a motorcycle in Ayutthaya.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bkA8X8wGArEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bkA8X8wGArE/fit=1000x1000/MG-4232-copy.jpgKoh Phi Phi LehViewpoint in Koh Phi Phi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000M5YiwbrXrMchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000M5YiwbrXrMc/fit=1000x1000/MG-4251.jpgKrabiPhoto taken from Krabi harbour.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000iz7Gmw_G3ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000iz7Gmw_G3g/fit=1000x1000/MG-4203-copy.jpgKoh Phi Phi LehTsunami evacuation sign in Koh Phi Phi Leh.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RwNH63MSFGchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RwNH63MSFGc/fit=1000x1000/MG-4194.jpgKoh Phi Phi LehLong-tail boats on Long Beach in Koh Phi Phi Leh.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000me08lDNtVMshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000me08lDNtVMs/fit=1000x1000/MG-4188.jpgKoh Phi Phi LehThe beach at Koh Phi Phi Leh Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001bakSCLOfcUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001bakSCLOfcU/fit=1000x1000/MG-4147.jpgKoh Phi Phi LehLong Beach at Koh Phi Phi Leh Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WyU5UO_I_Ashttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WyU5UO_I_As/fit=1000x1000/MG-4001.jpgKrabiTourists standing on the edge of Railay Viewpoint in Krabi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kw.7iEIynqEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kw.7iEIynqE/fit=1000x1000/MG-3526.jpgKoh Nangyuan IslandsPare on Koh Nangyuan beach, a small island located next to Koh Tao.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kqT58wXwqMkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kqT58wXwqMk/fit=1000x1000/MG-3491.jpgKoh Nang Yuan IslandsKo Nang Yuan seen from Koh Nangyuan View Point.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000D6JZK_QfErwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000D6JZK_QfErw/fit=1000x1000/MG-3461.jpgKoh SamuiPare on the beach in Koh Samui.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009lu1ZdMxHzohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009lu1ZdMxHzo/fit=1000x1000/MG-3425.jpgKoh SamuiAccording to "Wikipedia" - Koh Samui was probably first inhabited about 15 centuries ago, settled by fishermen from the Malay Peninsula[2] and southern China. It appears on Chinese maps dating back to 1687, under the name Pulo Cornam. The name samui is mysterious in itself. Perhaps it is an extension of the name of one of the native trees, mui. Some people believe that the word "samui" derives from the Malay word "saboey", or "safe haven", although there appears to be no credible corroboration of this. Ko is the Thai word for "island".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OBI8n9y0ftohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OBI8n9y0fto/fit=1000x1000/MG-3397.jpgKoh SamuiBig Buddha statue in Wat Phra Yai in Koh Samui.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000T.15P40gqbwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000T.15P40gqbw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2893.jpgWat PhoSitting golden Buddha statues at Wat Pho.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008TktR3kaelshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008TktR3kaels/fit=1000x1000/MG-3001.jpgWat Thai Charoen Phu KoiMonks sitting in Wat Thai Charoen Phu Koi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jVOVsDgSesEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jVOVsDgSesE/fit=1000x1000/MG-8741.jpgTiwu Ata Bupu Lake in Kelimutu National ParkThe black "Tiwu Ata Bupu" Lake, which means "Lake of old people" is located in Kelimutu National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008BoDcLSbn_khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008BoDcLSbn_k/fit=1000x1000/MG-8100.jpgView from Pusuk Buhit on ricefields on Samosir Island, Lake TobaOn a nice tuesday morning i met Joe in his restaurant, a nice place located just outside Tuktuk on the way to Ambarita. Joe made me an interesting proposition the day before; hiking all the way up to Pusuk Buhit, the sacred mountain of all Batak descendants. On the way up, i made this picture of the Sagala valley.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UXBeMBDPbNkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UXBeMBDPbNk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2119.jpgPuquios aqueductsThe Puquios aqueducts were easily accessible. Built by Nazca architects, the water was more or less reachable at surface level.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZhwZWcGAFhshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZhwZWcGAFhs/fit=1000x1000/MG-2113.jpgPuquios aqueductsView on the spiral shaped aqueduct entrance called Puquios in spanish.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rRix8B8hc.ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rRix8B8hc.g/fit=1000x1000/MG-2100.jpgPuquios aqueductsAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Puquios are an old system of aqueducts near the city of Nazca, Peru. Out of 36 Puquios, most are still functioning and relied upon to bring fresh water into the arid desert. The Puquios have never been fully mapped, nor have any been excavated.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oXMKZSu0I9Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oXMKZSu0I9E/fit=1000x1000/MG-2826.jpgForest of PoppaghiaOn the walk which takes approximately 2hours, you have to pass through a rocky and arid region.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000thl7TI.jo4whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000thl7TI.jo4w/fit=1000x1000/MG-2824.jpgForest of PoppaghiaThe altitude difference between Poppaghia and "Lac de Nino" is 667m.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_ic2kJFl5Cwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_ic2kJFl5Cw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2767.jpgCorteCorte, the birthplace of Joseph-Napoléon Bonaparte, is located in the heart of corsica.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000097uL2HKv.nIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000097uL2HKv.nI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2762.jpgDriving from Porto-Vecchio to CorteThis unpaved road along our route was leading to a ruin on the top of a hill.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xesSdFEJRs4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xesSdFEJRs4/fit=1000x1000/MG-7723.jpgRazorbills sitting on the cliffs of Mount ReynisfjallTwo Razorbills sitting on the cliffs of Mount Reynisfjall.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BNNWX2pViYEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BNNWX2pViYE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0316.jpgHelambu TrekThe owner of our guesthouse in Kutumsang, picking off the corn from the cob.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004myP9.uUwrghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004myP9.uUwrg/fit=1000x1000/MG-3257.jpgKuchingAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Kuching Waterfront is an approximately 1 kilometer long riverside esplanade stretching from the main hotel and commercial heartland of the city to downtown Kuching. The landscaped waterfront is dotted with food stalls, restaurants and benches and offers excellent views of The Astana, Fort Margherita and the New Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building. The waterfront also features an observation tower, an open-air theater and musical fountains. The Sunday Market at Satok operates during weekends offers a large diversity of items for trade. The Kuching Civic Center offers a panoramic view of the city from a viewing platform during the day.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ftm8TvnW.DQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ftm8TvnW.DQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-8102.jpgApatani woman in Hari villageAn Apatani woman wearing a large traditional nose plug, also called Yapping Hullo by the Apatani people.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vYebDT672SEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vYebDT672SE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0390.jpgMount Everest TrekTyndall effect over Panayo Toppa (6696m), Teng Kangboche (6500m) and the monastery of Thame, shortly before sunset.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000w4A5Tj76qekhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000w4A5Tj76qek/fit=1000x1000/MG-4320.jpgThe Western Gate, Gedhong Gapura Hageng in YogyakartaThe western gate, Gedhong Gapura Hageng, main gate for the sultans and the entrance to the bathing complex of Taman Sari.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TEhod1jmRPshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TEhod1jmRPs/fit=1000x1000/MG-8131.jpgAltar at Pusuk Buhit on Samosir Island at Lake TobaAn altar with receptacles for sacrifice items.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zYUWG8O5w6Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zYUWG8O5w6I/fit=1000x1000/MG-5672.jpgCharles BridgeThe Charles Bridge, seen early in the morning.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lV2FzNJT380https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lV2FzNJT380/fit=1000x1000/MG-5638.jpgMusic in PragueA street artist playing guitar in front of the John Lennon wall in Prague.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000S9dJDkhsCB0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000S9dJDkhsCB0/fit=1000x1000/MG-5662.jpgCharles BridgeView on Vltava river from the Charles bridge.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000w4k.7G2M3aYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000w4k.7G2M3aY/fit=1000x1000/MG-5503.jpgNear the Old Town SquareOrnated facades near the Old Town Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002OCk1Tt3wCEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002OCk1Tt3wCE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1139.jpgArchaeological site of PisacThe snake gate also called Amaru Punku was the control gate between Q'allaqasa and Pisaqa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zsXRTGJCgQQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zsXRTGJCgQQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-7725.jpgRazorbills and a puffin sitting on the cliffs of Mount ReynisfjallMount Reynisfjall is located east of Vík í Mýrdal, the southernmost village in Island. There are two more attractions near Vik: the massive arch of Dyrhólaey and the basalt sea columns of Reynisdrangar, which were a part of Mount Reynisfjall.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Z4a5OlVcSlEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Z4a5OlVcSlE/fit=1000x1000/MG-8716.jpgBoy in PangiA boy posing near a water well in Pangi village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QihDn96_oDUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QihDn96_oDU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2158.jpgChauchilla CemeteryFor many years several Nazca burial sites were plundered by grave robbers. Today Chauchilla Cemetery is better secured today, but robberings are still taking place on nearby sites.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KY2r8NKvG1Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KY2r8NKvG1Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-0424.jpgQurikancha in CuscoThe Qurikancha enclosure wall is a remaining of the sun temple, the most important temple built during the Inka period. According to "Wikipedia" - The walls and floors were once covered in sheets of solid gold, and its adjacent courtyard was filled with golden statues. Spanish reports tell of its opulence that was "fabulous beyond belief". When the Spanish required the Inca to raise a ransom in gold for the life of the leader Atahualpa, most of the gold was collected from Qurikancha. The Spanish colonists built the Church of Santo Domingo on the site, demolishing the temple and using its foundations for the cathedral. Construction took most of a century. This is one of numerous sites where the Spanish incorporated Inca stonework into the structure of a colonial building.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ppeys6E73nkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ppeys6E73nk/fit=1000x1000/MG-6333.jpgMrauk UA morning street scene in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000e20RVDlleXghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000e20RVDlleXg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6330.jpgMrauk UBurmese huts standing along the riverbank.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UUz606xGw3Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UUz606xGw3Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-6291.jpgMrauk USunset over Mrauk U with view on the 61m high Ratana Pon stupa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Xsm6pHXhLsIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Xsm6pHXhLsI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6276.jpgMrauk UChildren playing and washing on the riverbank.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004OsWcmgXPdwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004OsWcmgXPdw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6185.jpgMrauk UTwo girls hanging around in the temple area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fP7UJETaH9ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fP7UJETaH9o/fit=1000x1000/MG-6258.jpgMrauk UPortrait of a young woman and her child.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Gg4fysevXTIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Gg4fysevXTI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6149.jpgMrauk UA portrait of a young monk we met inside the Kothaung temple. We spent one or two hours with him and his friends. Actually i guess that he doesn't know that his portrait became famous; i found him on many other websites.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PeF2GTFiXLohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PeF2GTFiXLo/fit=1000x1000/MG-6142.jpgMrauk UAccording to "Wikitravel" - Mrauk U was declared capital of the Arakanese kingdom in 1431. At its peak, Mrauk U controlled half of Bangladesh, modern day Rakhine State and the western part of Lower Burma. As the city grew, many pagodas and temples were built. Several of them remain today, and is the main attraction of the city.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uo3d9P35Bvohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uo3d9P35Bvo/fit=1000x1000/MG-5972.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Sittwe to Mrauk UThe landscape scenery along the Kaladan river was one of my favorite moments in Myanmar. But before we arrived there it was a tricky task to plan a flight to Sittwe, the entry port for travelling further to Mrauk U by boat. But we were more or less lucky: after three days we received our flight tickets and some of the backpackers we met in Bagan envied us for that :) While we saw only our three names written on the passenger list at the airport, we presumed that we would be the only tourists in the plane, which made us very happy. A couple of hours later our airplane arrived, and from the distance we recognized that it wasn't empty... As we entered the plane, complaining about all the bloody tourists inside "our" plane :), some of the passengers were looking at us with astonishment while they recognized our language. The passengers, 23 people, were all from Luxembourg.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RW1tG0MUoaYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RW1tG0MUoaY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2793.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGirl posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000f7ehJ49r0OAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000f7ehJ49r0OA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2777.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGirl posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dDBewGXk9.ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dDBewGXk9.o/fit=1000x1000/MG-2747.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachTwo girls and a small boy posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FV4f8OVa.Zshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FV4f8OVa.Zs/fit=1000x1000/MG-2740.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGirls i met in Gyeiktaw Village, posing on a bridge which leads to a small golden Pagoda.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kg9oIwzkSlUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kg9oIwzkSlU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2733.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachFishermen posing along the beach after their end of work.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003ovBUAbTo9khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003ovBUAbTo9k/fit=1000x1000/MG-2698.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachAt the market in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007zQt3jwq0.shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007zQt3jwq0.s/fit=1000x1000/MG-2626.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachLocals at Ngapali Beach near Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lUhifN6qqxohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lUhifN6qqxo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2619.jpgNgapali BeachNight fishing is also common in Myanmar. The boats for night fishing are equipped with bulbs to simulate the moonlight and attract the fishes into the net. At full moon, the fishermen don't go out for night fishing.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FkbWjTwI6YEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FkbWjTwI6YE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2587.jpgNgapali BeachFishermen are unloading mixed small fishes from their boat just before dusk.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002uba3GEVabEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002uba3GEVabE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2573.jpgNgapali BeachI took a small boat which brought me to the night fishing point.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pMBE4P4cOBchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pMBE4P4cOBc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2565.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGirls posing after their work at the beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gHDnEC7t.IQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gHDnEC7t.IQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2538.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachWomen drying fish on a net at evening time.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CeWfQUc.IvYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CeWfQUc.IvY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2460.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachA girl posing before dusk at Ngapali beach near Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000VHGNqvI7mAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000VHGNqvI7mA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2343.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGirls having fun while they take a break from drying fish at the beach of Ngapali.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JV7nvsqNHa4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JV7nvsqNHa4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2303.jpgLinthar Village in NgapaliPortrait of a boy with tanaka face painting in Linthar Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Fwxy5wBmLQohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Fwxy5wBmLQo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2299.jpgLinthar Village in NgapaliA "burmese" cat looking for food early in the morning in Linthar Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000q_ukeeNfLOQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000q_ukeeNfLOQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2288.jpgLinthar Village in NgapaliThe fishermen area in Linthar Village, set near the beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VSRs.44NWGUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VSRs.44NWGU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2293.jpgLinthar Village in NgapaliLocals walking back home to Linthar Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000abtaXBugsZEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000abtaXBugsZE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2264.jpgFrom Mrauk U to SittweLeaving Mrauk U for Sittwe with the ferry.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BKVqfZECtC8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BKVqfZECtC8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2164.jpgFrom Mrauk U to KyauktawWomen selling vegetables at a market seen on the way from Mrauk U to Kyauktaw.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OZCwpMGuc08https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OZCwpMGuc08/fit=1000x1000/MG-2123.jpgMrauk UA girl with two aluminium water pots. These pots are usually imported from Bangladesh.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HBYCA4Sr12Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HBYCA4Sr12U/fit=1000x1000/MG-2110.jpgMrauk UGirls with aluminium water pots walking to the water place near the main temple complex in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JkciohJCH90https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JkciohJCH90/fit=1000x1000/MG-2086.jpgMrauk UMonks from Shai-thaung Temple drying their robes in front of Ratanabon Stupa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007lCdGT85EYchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007lCdGT85EYc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2034.jpgChin village near Laymyo RiverMiss Ma Boar, an elderly tattooed Chin woman i met in a Chin village along Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000u8WVhwr0fi4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000u8WVhwr0fi4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2031.jpgChin village near Lemro River.Miss Mar Mark Oo posing in a Chin village near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000czUsauPirPYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000czUsauPirPY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2018.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverMister Aung Zan and Miss Daw Mar Mark Oo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A8cymvWK0QQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A8cymvWK0QQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2012.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverKids posing at the main place of a Chin village situated near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000c_cYPvP0KQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000c_cYPvP0KQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2009.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverMiss Win Sain Oo posing in a Chin village near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yxTXJU0P6Pwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yxTXJU0P6Pw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2007.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverMiss Win Sain Oo posing in a Chin village near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W7CbtFThKV4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W7CbtFThKV4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2004.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverMiss Win Sain Oo posing in a Chin village near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VfjYZZAmEkIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VfjYZZAmEkI/fit=1000x1000/MG-1997.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverAn elderly tattooed Chin woman i met in a Chin village along Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ri.BOf7Kq1Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ri.BOf7Kq1U/fit=1000x1000/MG-1977.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverPortrait of a Chin girl and her brother, taken in a village near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UFjI4cx9FMQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UFjI4cx9FMQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1975.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverPortrait of a Chin girl taken in a village near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008D0R6Pl23Fkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008D0R6Pl23Fk/fit=1000x1000/MG-1924.jpgChin village along Lemro RiverAn elderly tattooed Chin woman i met in Mada Kin, a Chin village along Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007vwnn1Gk9Kwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007vwnn1Gk9Kw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1922.jpgChin village along Lemro RiverAn elderly tattooed Chin woman i met in Mada Kin, a Chin village along Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nuBFuKm3_IQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nuBFuKm3_IQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1839.jpgGirl posing along Lemro RiverGirl posing along Lemro River between Pain Ming and Sain Sai Kyaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TYFM0rEgE7Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TYFM0rEgE7I/fit=1000x1000/MG-1772.jpgMarket in Pain MingWomen selling dried tobaco leaves at a market in Pain Ming.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000twOdP2Q_Zgghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000twOdP2Q_Zgg/fit=1000x1000/MG-1647.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageLocal shaving the head of a boy during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000605JVHNzi2chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000605JVHNzi2c/fit=1000x1000/MG-1638.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageLocal shaving the head of a boy during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lHwc0BfsJswhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lHwc0BfsJsw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1636.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageLocal shaving the head of a boy during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Y88v3jC2agIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Y88v3jC2agI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0353.jpgOn the second day girls from a neighbour village were walking through Graw Raw Ma Ni Village to celebrate Shinbyu ceremony.Locals, mainly young ladies, during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Y9XzhGUCKqohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Y9XzhGUCKqo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0340.jpgGraw Raw Ma Ni VillageYoung men sawing a log in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000N6OdExZVbW4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000N6OdExZVbW4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0312.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageThese men were the cooks during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village. Alcoholic beverages, accompanied by loudy music, were taken while the cooks prepared the meals at night time.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gZN8nzLQ890https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gZN8nzLQ890/fit=1000x1000/MG-0267.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageLocals, mainly young ladies, during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000PvIWSoruk8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000PvIWSoruk8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6096.jpgWaitangi day in WellingtonWaitangi day in Wellington. According to "Wikipedia" - The Treaty of Waitangi was signed on 6 February 1840, in a marquee in the grounds of James Busby's house (now known as the Treaty house) at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands. The Treaty made New Zealand a part of the British Empire, guaranteed Maori rights to their land and gave Maori the rights of British subjects. There are differences between the English version and the Maori translation of the Treaty, and since 1840 this has led to debate over exactly what was agreed to at Waitangi. Maori have generally seen the Treaty as a sacred pact, while for many years Pakeha (the Maori word for New Zealanders of predominantly European ancestry) ignored it.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VHuKAvoFimYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VHuKAvoFimY/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5911.jpgBetween Westport and Hanmer SpringsDriving from Westport to Hanmer Springs.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fN.fHzPa73whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fN.fHzPa73w/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5686.jpgParagliding at Queenstown with view on lake WakatipuQueenstown is a cool place where you can hang around for a few days or try one of its attractions, like Bungy Jumping, Paragliding, or much more. I took this photo from a hill. In the background you can see Walter Peak (1800m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004637jSdsNqohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004637jSdsNqo/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5588.jpgBetween Romahapa and the Clifden Suspension BridgeA big tree spending shadow along the river. Seen somewhere between Romahapa and the Clifden Suspension Bridge.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vhFivSOWjYIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vhFivSOWjYI/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5486.jpgNew Zealand Sea Lions on Surat BayA couple of New Zealand sea lions sitting on the beach of Surat Bay in the Catlins. The sea lions are not dangerous, but people should take care when approaching them to close. According to "Wikipedia" - The New Zealand sea lion is probably the world's rarest sea lion and numbers around 10,000.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008dzlLVlVlrchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008dzlLVlVlrc/fit=1000x1000/MG-3700.jpgSantubong RiverbankHouses on stilts, lined up along the Santubong riverbank.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Xwb8eJDJbMwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Xwb8eJDJbMw/fit=1000x1000/MG-3448.jpgProboscis monkey at Bako National ParkAccording to "Wikipedia" - The proboscis monkey is endemic to the island of Borneo and can be found on all three nations that divide the island: Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia. It is most common in coastal areas and along rivers. This species is restricted to lowland habitats that may experience tides. It favors dipterocarp, mangrove and riverine forests. It can also be found in swamp forests, stunted swamp forests, rubber forests, rubber plantations, limestone hill forests, nypa swamps, nibong swamps, and tall swamp forests, tropical heath forests and steep cliffs. This species usually stays at least a kilometer from a water source. It is perhaps the most aquatic of the primates and is a fairly good swimmer, capable of swimming up to 20 m (65.6 ft) underwater. It is known to swim across rivers. Aside from this, the proboscis monkey is largely arboreal and moves quadrupedally and by leaps. It is known to jump off branches and descend into waterhttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000naLHrLa8I3Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000naLHrLa8I3I/fit=1000x1000/MG-3436.jpgJetty which from boats leave to Bako National ParkIt takes about 50 minutes to drive from Kuching to the Forestry office, where tourists have to register if they want to go to Bako National Park. After registering Bako National Park is only a 20 minute boat ride away.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IeFa2gojr2Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IeFa2gojr2Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-3433.jpgJetty which from boats leave to Bako National ParkScene taken from the boat jetty before leaving for Bako National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ss5WYFEnnu8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ss5WYFEnnu8/fit=1000x1000/MG-3423.jpgOrang Utan at Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation CentreAs the Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is not a zoo, the Orangutans living in this area, are not kept in cages. They are free to move around the forest.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EtObbFZ41i4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EtObbFZ41i4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2994.jpgPa'Lungan VillageAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Kelabit Highlands is a highland plateau in the interior of Sarawak in Malaysia. The isolated region bordering Kalimantan, Indonesia, is now very popular for jungle trekking as well as those hoping to get away from it all.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hQdCMJVy0oIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hQdCMJVy0oI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2976.jpgYoung palm tree, seen on the way to Pa'LunganJohn showed us how to get the heart of a palm to eat it.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UoHwr_QCJGshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UoHwr_QCJGs/fit=1000x1000/MG-2970.jpgYoung palm tree, seen on the way to Pa'LunganJohn, using his machete to cut down a young palm tree.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000D_x2gnfSZg8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000D_x2gnfSZg8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2949.jpgWater buffalo, seen on the way to Pa'LunganA local man and his water buffalo we met on the way to Pa'Lungan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nXDIcyJhh.shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nXDIcyJhh.s/fit=1000x1000/MG-2961.jpgLexias Pardalis butterflyA male "Lexias Pardalis" butterfly.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RAeJGMksENchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RAeJGMksENc/fit=1000x1000/MG-7350.jpgLandscape seen from the Stóra-Víti crater's rimStill taking landscape photos from the rim of the Stóra-Víti Crater.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000aAlJQcxmBshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000aAlJQcxmBs/fit=1000x1000/MG-7321.jpgHverir, also known as Hverarönd located at the foothill of Námafjall, just near the Námaskarð passThe most famous and colorful geothermal area in Iceland is located at the eastern foothill of Námafjal just near the Námaskarð pass.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000d08UCdGkUHUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000d08UCdGkUHU/fit=1000x1000/MG-7317.jpgBjarnarflag geothermal plantThe Bjarnarflag geothermal plant started delivering power in 1969, in the same year that it was built.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005nqVWcMcNUQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005nqVWcMcNUQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-7153.jpgKittiwakes nesting at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsThe Kittiwake is also called black-legged Kittiwake in North America, to differentiate it from the european Kittiwake, the red-legged Kittiwake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000a6q9mO9FolMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000a6q9mO9FolM/fit=1000x1000/MG-7053.jpgKittiwakes nesting at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsThe Látrabjarg birdcliffs, Europe's largest, and one of the world's greatest bird cliff, consist of up to 440m high rocks. The entire cliff is about 14km long.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YCGLXV7PwYEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YCGLXV7PwYE/fit=1000x1000/MG-7006.jpgGarðar BA64While we were driving to the Westfjords, we decided to stop near Garðar BA64. Garðar BA64 was built in Norway 1912. Bad weather drove the ship ashore at Patreksfjörður in 1981.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MeODxfxgh6Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MeODxfxgh6U/fit=1000x1000/MG-6727.jpgJökulsárlón in Vatnajökull National ParkAccording to "Wikipedia" - Jökulsárlón lake or lagoon, the Icelandic “glacier lake” is now reported to have doubled in size in the recent 15-year period. The huge blocks of ice that calve from the edge of Vatnajökull are about 30 metres (98 ft) high which fills the lagoon stocked with icebergs. Some icebergs appear naturally sculpted on account volcanic ashes from ancient eruptions that partly cover them. With the rate at which Vatnajökull is retreating and the lagoon is getting formed, in the near future, it is anticipated that there is likely to be a deep fjord where Vatnajökull is now. This retreat is also posing a threat to the National Highway Route 1 of Iceland. Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland is 250 kilometres (160 mi) from the lake and the road between the capital and the lagoon winds through a dozen other glaciers, which are also under retreat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OvNIs_rRaPwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OvNIs_rRaPw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6585.jpgSvinafellsjökull GlacierAccording to "Wikipedia" - Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland was founded on June 7, 2008. It is the largest national park in Europe, covering around 12,000 km² (12% of the surface of Iceland), including all of Vatnajökull glacier, and the former Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsárgljúfur National Park and surrounding area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000F0.QcJhV_HYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000F0.QcJhV_HY/fit=1000x1000/MG-6584.jpgSvinafellsjökull GlacierThe Svinafellsjökull Glacier, a part of the Vatnajökull National Park, is famous for glacier walks and ice climbing. It's not the most impressive natural spot, but it offers probably one of the best accessible opportunity to experience the glacier, including excellent views.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008b3.Yw5Ecrghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008b3.Yw5Ecrg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6528.jpgNúpsstaðurNúpsstaður is a small farm with old turfhouses dating from the early 19th century. The farm was run by two brothers until one of them died in 2004.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000qvwqeUXeaHwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000qvwqeUXeaHw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6501.jpgSkógafoss WaterfallAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Skógafoss is one of the biggest waterfalls in the country with a width of 25 metres (82 feet) and a drop of 60 m (200 ft). Due to the amount of spray the waterfall consistently produces, a single or double rainbow is normally visible on sunny days. According to legend, the first Viking settler in the area, Þrasi Þórólfsson, buried a treasure in a cave behind the waterfall. A local boy found the chest years later, but was only able to grasp the ring on the side of the chest before it disappeared again.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BdeOn7WrqXUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BdeOn7WrqXU/fit=1000x1000/MG-6486.jpgSkógafoss WaterfallSkógafoss is one of the most visited waterfall in addition to Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss. You can see the waterfall easily from the Ring Road.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MUGOiPsrrewhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MUGOiPsrrew/fit=1000x1000/MG-6345.jpgSeals in HindisvikAs the seals are very shy, you should use a large tele lens if you want to take pictures of them.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MWSASx8KFOIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MWSASx8KFOI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6291.jpgHindisvikThe small bay of Hindisvík is located on the uppermost northern point of Vatnsnes peninsula.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ttZBZF6GucQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ttZBZF6GucQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-6256.jpgIcelandic horses along Route 711A young icelandic foal playing with its mother's tail, somewhere on Route 711 in north-west Island, between Hvammstangi and Hindisvík.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jQbV.K6VbdYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jQbV.K6VbdY/fit=1000x1000/MG-6087.jpgChurch in Glaumbær...and the Glaumbær church located on the same area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LK3aL6llRDkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LK3aL6llRDk/fit=1000x1000/MG-5961.jpgBetween Dalvík and ÓlafsfjörðurMountain scenerys in the north of Island between Dalvík and Ólafsfjörður. This area of the country is particularly famous for skiing.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fhZiKDLokDshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fhZiKDLokDs/fit=1000x1000/MG-5954.jpgIcelandic Horse in DalvíkIcelandic horses were brought by the Vikings from Norway to Island nearly 1000 years ago. The icelandic horse is probably the most pure and oldest breed of horse in the world; facing day by day the extreme weather conditions of Island it became very robust. According to "Wikipedia" - Icelandic horses are long-lived and hardy. In their native country they have few diseases; Icelandic law prevents horses from being imported into the country and exported animals are not allowed to return.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LtXh3Q6V.bohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LtXh3Q6V.bo/fit=1000x1000/MG-5812.jpgLake MývatnLake Mývatn was formed 2300 years ago by a basaltic lava eruption which flows out of a large fissure. In earlier times, approximately 10000 years ago, it was permanently covered by an icecap. Today the area is famous for the rich fauna, expecially birdlife. Another spot is the Laxá river, which is very popular (and expensive) for salmon fishing. Brown trouts are also abundantly found in the clear river.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GlAAYsfJ67Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GlAAYsfJ67A/fit=1000x1000/MG-5804.jpgDimmuborgirAccording to "Wikipedia" - Dimmuborgir is a large area of unusually shaped lava fields east of Mývatn in Iceland. The Dimmuborgir area is composed of various volcanic caves and rock formations, reminiscent of an ancient collapsed citadel (hence the name). The dramatic structures are one of Iceland's most popular natural tourist attractions.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002x1auTAPVqUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002x1auTAPVqU/fit=1000x1000/MG-5779.jpgKrafla volcanic areaLeirhnjúkur was the focus of eruptive activities in the last Krafla eruption series. As the central volcano of the caldera, it erupted many times between 1727 and 1729, menacing the township of Reykjahlíð in 1729 with a menacingly lava stream. Other eruption series occured in 1975 and 1984.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002STVanpWlK8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002STVanpWlK8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5745.jpgKrafla volcanic areaKrafla is also known for its awesome lava field and the colorful volcanic landscape, especially at the Leirhnjúkur area. The Krafla caldera is easily reachable by car and it's worth to stay there for a couple of hours.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vlfHmegY8jMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vlfHmegY8jM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5719.jpgHummocky ground in Krafla CalderaView on a hummocky ground in the Krafla Caldera. Hummocks are caused by debris avalanches.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fFPsLeoWO6Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fFPsLeoWO6Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-5600.jpgHverir, also known as Hverarönd located at the foothill of Námafjall, just near the Námaskarð passTake care when you walk over the geothermal fields because of the hot and unstable ground. The path in Hverir is secured by a rope. If you see an idiot walking outside the secured area, take your camera and enjoy the show.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ww2XLse7PeYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ww2XLse7PeY/fit=1000x1000/MG-5484.jpgDriving between Húsavík and ReykjahliðBecause of the high coffein level in Mike's blood, this road between Húsavík and Reykjahlið became our personal "highway to hell". We arrived at a camping site 2 hours later and after we installed our tents near a lake occupied by funny ducks (again), we prepared spaghettis (again) for dinner. The next morning Mike told us that a giant bird of prey woke him up while it was tearing a duck to pieces just near the zip entry door of his tent.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CXIGB_11BqQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CXIGB_11BqQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-5434.jpgDettifossAccording to "Wikipedia", Dettifoss - is reputed to be the most powerful waterfall in Europe. It is situated on the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, which flows from the Vatnajökull glacier and collects water from a large area in Northeast Iceland. The falls are 100 m wide and have a drop of 45 m down to the Jökulsárgljúfur canyon. It is the largest waterfall in Europe in terms of volume discharge, having an average water flow of 193 m3/s.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HLJjstLMoGchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HLJjstLMoGc/fit=1000x1000/MG-5316.jpgDjúpivogurThis photo has been taken in Djúpivogur, a small town in eastern Island. There are some very good reasons for choosing Island as a travel destination. Island is a relatively small country, circled in its entirety by an easily accessible main Route, called "Route 1". Despite the "small" size of the country, and the fact that nearly the entire surface is covered with volcanic ash, you should expect a boring country, but natural wonders are rich in variety and beauty.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TB55scwhscAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TB55scwhscA/fit=1000x1000/MG-5221.jpgAscending Mount HeklaWalking up the 1491 meter-high volcano takes about 4 hours, and the weather can change very quickly while you ascend the mountain. We started our hike in a sunny morning and achieved the last quarter of the distance under snowy weather.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000054K1tCQGeFMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000054K1tCQGeFM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5219.jpgAscending Mount HeklaHalfway to the summit the views from Hekla were already amazing, so i set up my tripod every five minutes, which made me the slowest group member. On the lower right corner you can see a huge dead lava field.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000V6VY5FyeIp8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000V6VY5FyeIp8/fit=1000x1000/MG-4803.jpgGullfoss WaterfallThe Gullfoss Waterfall is certainly one of the top 5 sightseeing places in Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yotvEt_8nOIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yotvEt_8nOI/fit=1000x1000/MG-4869.jpgGullfoss WaterfallRob standing on the edge of the Gullfoss waterfall.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002dm.BBHhkTwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002dm.BBHhkTw/fit=1000x1000/MG-8394.jpgKids playing at a Beach in Pulau WehWeh Island is located at the north western point of Sumatra. The Island is only accessible by boat; ferries are leaving regularly from Banda Aceh.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000qJslj40KS3Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000qJslj40KS3A/fit=1000x1000/MG-8390.jpgBeach in Pulau WehAccording to "Wikipedia" - The island is known for its ecosystem; the Indonesian government has declared 60 square kilometres (23 sq mi) of inland and sea around the island as a wildlife protection area. A rare megamouth shark species was found on shore and the island is the only habitat for the threatened toad, Bufo valhallae (genus Bufo). Coral reef areas around the island are known for their large variety of fish species.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000d.zSPqR075khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000d.zSPqR075k/fit=1000x1000/MG-8377.jpgSmall harbor of Pulau WehAt dinner time i met a cool Dutch couple, Ray and Ana. For the next days we dived with Rubiah Tirta, a diving school in front of Iboih beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005bBpeBJs1BAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005bBpeBJs1BA/fit=1000x1000/MG-8214.jpgChurch on Samosir Island at Lake TobaAs i was looking for a bottle of fuel i saw this church and the cemetery besite it. With an estimated percentage of 86% in 2011, Islam is known to be the largest religion in Indonesia with the largest muslim population in the world. Samosir is one of the exceptions, as the Batak people living on that island are almost entirely Protestants.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000T88ZIfR35v4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000T88ZIfR35v4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8200.jpgView from Pusuk Buhit on ricefields on Samosir Island, Lake TobaTraditional Batak houses in the middle of the rice fields, photographed just after a rain shower. From an historical view, the first village of the Batak people was Sianjur Sagala Limbong Mulana, situated in the Sagala valley.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Xpnjw2B0kYUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Xpnjw2B0kYU/fit=1000x1000/MG-8152.jpgView from Pusuk Buhit on ricefields on Samosir Island, Lake TobaView over Sagala valley on the way down from where we started.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000V.PitiGQPKchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000V.PitiGQPKc/fit=1000x1000/MG-8123.jpgJoe posing on Pusuk Buhit, Samosir Island at Lake TobaMy friend and "guide of the day" , Joe, posing on the top of Pusuk Buhit.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000P6W1epMkB8khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000P6W1epMkB8k/fit=1000x1000/MG-8073.jpgRice farming on Samosir Island at Lake TobaRice seedling planting in Samosir. The maintain of the ricefields is hard work for the locals.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CKz8RkaVigkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CKz8RkaVigk/fit=1000x1000/MG-8072.jpgBaby clothes on Samosir Island at Lake TobaDid the baby pee every ten minutes, or were there many babies living in the household?http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SU4_S.yYxTkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SU4_S.yYxTk/fit=1000x1000/MG-8064.jpgGirl posing on Samosir Island at Lake TobaAn Indonesian girl posing in a village in front of her house on Samosir Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DX0YuawIvYkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DX0YuawIvYk/fit=1000x1000/MG-7944.jpgMedanMy first main destination, starting from Medan - the capital of North Sumatra, was Samosir, an island located in a volcanic crater called Lake Toba.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Madyuv3ZX10https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Madyuv3ZX10/fit=1000x1000/MG-7922.jpgMasjid Raya Mosque of MedanYoung Indonesians posing in front of Masjid Raya, the Great Mosque of Medan . In december 2010 i traveled alone for the first time, deciding to fly to Sumatra the second largest indonesian island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ddgxacwC0P8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ddgxacwC0P8/fit=1000x1000/MG-4325.jpgBatik shop in YogyakartaBatik paintings are a work of art using very ancient techniques. According to "Wikipedia" - Batik is a cloth which traditionally uses a manual wax-resist dyeing technique. Due to modern advances in the textile industry, the term has been extended to include fabrics which incorporate traditional batik patterns even if they are not produced using the wax-resist dyeing techniques. Silk batik is especially popular.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000btV4djuuXTMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000btV4djuuXTM/fit=1000x1000/MG-4306.jpgTajug buildings in YogyakartaA row of buildings called Tajug, once used as air vents for the underground tunnels of Taman Sari. The Taman Sari is located south of Yogyakarta Palace and was, among others, a resting place for the Sultan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000J.2xYcwGW9Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000J.2xYcwGW9E/fit=1000x1000/MG-4284.jpgSultan PalaceYogyakarta became a sultanate in 1755, and it is at the present the only province in Indonesia with special autonomy, still governed by a Sultan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XDN504bda70https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XDN504bda70/fit=1000x1000/MG-4292.jpgNgasem Bird Market in YogyakartaThe Ngasem bird market. Yogyakarta's oldest market providing birds and other wild-caught animals kept in cages.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lT2ZCVe6X64https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lT2ZCVe6X64/fit=1000x1000/MG-4278.jpgJavanese dancers in the Sultan's PalaceTwo Javanese dancers performing a traditional dance in the Sultan's Palace.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zIhSERjjesYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zIhSERjjesY/fit=1000x1000/MG-4094.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenOne worker is filling big pieces of sulfur into a bag as another man is taking a break. A third exhausted miner is looking into my camera. We will met him later at the weighing station.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mmScidLG1.Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mmScidLG1.M/fit=1000x1000/MG-4078.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenA loaded basket is carried over a handmade bridge which leads to steep crater sections.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008sRk7qzR1Rkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008sRk7qzR1Rk/fit=1000x1000/MG-4050.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenThe baskets are ready to be filled up with big chunks of yellow sulfur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002JdIdRFapEQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002JdIdRFapEQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-4049.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenExtracting sulfur isn't very healthy. Indeed, breathing the poisonous steam gives you the impression that your lungs are burning. The mens are ruining their lungs irreversibly day by day. This photo shows two different types of very basic, and probably ineffective gas masks.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NW5xHgrnYdshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NW5xHgrnYds/fit=1000x1000/MG-2405.jpgBetween Vizzavona and E'CapanelleA daywalk between Vizzavona and E'Capanelle surrounded by the corsican mountain scenery.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PRSlYSxanwkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PRSlYSxanwk/fit=1000x1000/MG-9800.jpgCarretera AustralA low hanging cloud just below the mountain top.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000076zF5I0XBwEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000076zF5I0XBwE/fit=1000x1000/MG-9499.jpgValle de la LunaTourists walking on a sand dune at sunset. This picture was taken shortly before we were to leave the valley of the moon.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tuwCTfOvFFMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tuwCTfOvFFM/fit=1000x1000/MG-9482.jpgValle de la LunaEvery year a lot of tourists are climbing the sand dune in Valle de la Luna for a magnificient view over the valley.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000I88o1oUXy00https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000I88o1oUXy00/fit=1000x1000/MG-9355.jpgSaltflat lizard at Salar de AtacamaThe camouflaged saltflat lizard (Liolaemus fabiani) lives in the Salar the Atacama.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000n_qMMHvn6yMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000n_qMMHvn6yM/fit=1000x1000/MG-9344.jpgSalar de AtacamaThe largest salt flat of Chile is located in the middle of the Atacama desert. The climate is extremely dry and you can feel the low humidity which lies around 3%-15% on your skin. But these climate conditions are perfect for photography as the air is very clear.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iLeCpuCPBlMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iLeCpuCPBlM/fit=1000x1000/MG-9337.jpgSan Pedro de AtacamaThe charming village of San Pedro de Atacama is a popular tourist destination. Near this cosy village you can visit main sights like the geysir fields of El Tatio, Valle de la luna or the giant salt area of Salar de Atacama.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kUkjRcFpYTkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kUkjRcFpYTk/fit=1000x1000/MG-9302.jpgOficina Santa LauraAccording to the description of the "UNESCO World Heritage website" - Humberstone and Santa Laura works contain over 200 former saltpeter works where workers from Chile, Peru and Bolivia lived in company towns and forged a distinctive communal pampinos culture. That culture is manifest in their rich language, creativity, and solidarity, and, above all, in their pioneering struggle for social justice, which had a profound impact on social history. Situated in the remote desert Pampa, one of the driest deserts on earth, thousands of pampinos lived and worked in this hostile environment, for over 60 years, from 1880, to process the largest deposit of saltpeter in the world, producing the fertilizer sodium nitrate that was to transform agricultural lands in North and South America, and in Europe, and produce great wealth for Chile. Because of the vulnerability of the structures and because of the impact of a recent earthquake, the site was also placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger, to help mobilize resources for its conservation.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000M8lGKleMYP8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000M8lGKleMYP8/fit=1000x1000/MG-9271.jpgCampaign at IquiqueI remember the capital of Tarapaca Region for its large duty-free commercial center called Zona Franca where i bought cheap photography accessories. This photo shows the municipal theater of Iquique where residents assembled for the presidential runoff campaign.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000QZtSxxvVu8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000QZtSxxvVu8/fit=1000x1000/MG-9249.jpgValley at Volcán Isluga National ParkAccording to a lower altitude, the vegetation on Volcan Isluga Nationalpark is more abundant.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003mCWMYpcDbohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003mCWMYpcDbo/fit=1000x1000/MG-9240.jpgBolivian Alpaka farmCaptured distance view of the bolivian alpaka farm.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W7.vWlWCTcYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W7.vWlWCTcY/fit=1000x1000/MG-9232.jpgDriving to Volcán Isluga National ParkPhoto of the semi-arid region. In the back you can see the immense plain called Pampa, and the graveled road we were driving ahead to another awesome landscape scenery.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SP22qxdJMgYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SP22qxdJMgY/fit=1000x1000/MG-9228.jpgDriving to Volcán Isluga National ParkWe are overwhelmed by Mars-like, spectacular landscapes along the route of the National Parc.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iGeWsBE8uKshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iGeWsBE8uKs/fit=1000x1000/MG-9219.jpgSalar de SurireI didn't really appreciate the spectacular views due to a terrible headache, probably caused by beer or altitude sickness. However, as the hospitable guards of the CONAF refugio were eating small portions that they didn't want to share with hungry tourists, we went to the mine and after 10 minutes we were offered a delicious meal by the saltmine workers who were thinking that we were like some kind of Inspectors, supervising and examining their mine. We spent the same night in the CONAF refugio just in front of Salar de Surire.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PnhjPBmowf0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PnhjPBmowf0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9198.jpgLauca National ParkSome landscapes along the chilean routes are magnificient. But driving during a very long time on graveled roads, can be very monotonous. A couple of days after i shot this photo, we were involved as witnesses and accident helpers in a ghastly rollover accident with 5 israelian tourists. Miles away from the crash site we finally found some kind of guard post with communication possibilities. After an emergency call, a young men suffering from severe injuries, had to wait for many hours for the ambulance to arrive.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FSS6bKY8QnMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FSS6bKY8QnM/fit=1000x1000/MG-9113.jpgVicunas along the route between Putre and Lauca National ParkVicunas grazing along the route between Putre and Lauca National Park. The south-american camelid is well-known for its very fine wool and it lives beyond an altitude of 4000m.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Wfj5OlYsQ_Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Wfj5OlYsQ_Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-0776.jpgPenguin colony at Seno OtwayEach year from november to march thousands of magellanic penguins arrive at Seno Otway for breeding. On this picture you can see an adult penguin with two chicks.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DQ7F7jaNkrAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DQ7F7jaNkrA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0772.jpgPenguin colony at Seno OtwaySeno Otway is connected to the pacific ocean via the strait of Magellan. This place is famous for its magellanic penguin colony.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XI7.GdjbKWIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XI7.GdjbKWI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0539.jpgGuanakos at Torres del Paine National ParkA lot of guanakos can be seen in the Torres del Paine National Park. As vicunas, guanakos also live in high elevations.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FLinpoTiW30https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FLinpoTiW30/fit=1000x1000/MG-0557.jpgTorres del Paine National ParkTechnical problems at Torres del Paine National Park...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Csl2S2S94dEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Csl2S2S94dE/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7184.jpgTa ProhmOver the years the vegetation in Ta Prohm has grown over the disturbing ruins and walls to destroy it or to be a part of it. And sometimes - like these tree roots, the vegetation gives an impression that they are offering protection to the delicate ruin's remainings.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j5TGVjzX1P8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j5TGVjzX1P8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7093.jpgSouth gate entrance of Angkor ThomAngkor Thom was the capital of the Khmer empire until 1295. Today the south gate is the main entrance for tourists. The Angkor Thom complex was featured in the "Lara Croft" movie "Tomb Raider", starring by Angelina Jolie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009mAitoBAuowhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009mAitoBAuow/fit=1000x1000/MG-0632.jpgAngkor Thom North GateThe towering face of the north gate of Angkor Thom. Angkor Thom is accessible by 5 entrance gates: the south gate, the west gate, the north gate, the victory gate, and the east gate.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000054KD1q35Dvwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000054KD1q35Dvw/fit=1000x1000/MG-425.jpgBuddhist nun at Banteay KdeyBuddhist nun sitting in a window frame in Banteay Kdei.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006UbRQa6yeqMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006UbRQa6yeqM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0402.jpgAngkor Wat seen from Phnom BakhengView over the Angkor Wat area from the top of Phnom Bakheng. The ascension of Phnom Bakheng was joyless because of the hundreds of tourists - some of them riding on an elephant, trying to reach the top before sunset.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OW7JdlkrlPMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OW7JdlkrlPM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0339.jpgMan fishing at BattambangThis man threw his cast net a few times over the water, before he could catch some bigger fish.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BqssQTNosYshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BqssQTNosYs/fit=1000x1000/MG-0299.jpgBoy fishing at BattambangThis boy catched a fish in a flooded rice field in Battambang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nDQKOVc1c6Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nDQKOVc1c6Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-0246.jpgKids at Phon Bontheay Yomreach villageKids making faces near Mab's house in Phon Bontheay Yomreach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IBKTR5uD3vEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IBKTR5uD3vE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0175.jpgBamboo train in BattambangThe first bamboo trains, also called nori, appeared in the 1970's. The first improvised vehicles were constructed by villagers and had no engines: they were propelled with a bamboo pole. Nowadays the norry is only operated in the Battambang region.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bKG7Es_.qGAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bKG7Es_.qGA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0030.jpgBoy and python at Chong Knea floating villageI was taking photos around a restaurant in Chong Khneas as this little boy was putting the python's head in his mouth.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aLJ_rTRziYshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aLJ_rTRziYs/fit=1000x1000/MG-0398.jpgPerito Moreno in Los Glaciares National Park78 kilometers from El Calafate you can easily reach the Glacier of Perito Moreno. Argentina's Perito Moreno is also located in Los Glaciares National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BD3Hmg26lRshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BD3Hmg26lRs/fit=1000x1000/MG-5495.jpgView from the Old Town Hall TowerThe Old Town Square and the Wenceslas Square are one of the most visited locations in Prague. In summer both squares are invaded by tourists. This photo was taken from the Old Town Hall Tower.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TXZv.S8ZLW4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TXZv.S8ZLW4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2172.jpgPrague CastlePrague Castle with reflections on the Vltava River, taken from the Charles Bridge.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dsYXYJ1CMuMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dsYXYJ1CMuM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2068.jpgKe Hradu StreetMany pastel-coloured old buildings add a certain charm to the small Ke Hradu street, which lead to the castle.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XVIx5IYtdVshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XVIx5IYtdVs/fit=1000x1000/MG-2045.jpgClock seen in PragueLunchtime in Prrague...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000022xz6o8TUj8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000022xz6o8TUj8/fit=1000x1000/MG-3246.jpgKoh SamuiPare posing at Lamai beach, near our hotel in Koh Samui.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Es1nPLD8Cv8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Es1nPLD8Cv8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2695.jpgAmber Fort in JaipurAccording to "Wikipedia" - Amber Fort was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachhawa clan of Amber, before the capital was shifted to present day Jaipur. Amber Fort is known for its unique artistic style, blending both Hindu and Muslim (Mughal) elements, and its ornate and breathtaking artistic mastery. The fort borders the Maota Lake, and is a major tourist attraction in Rajasthan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FJqLu7RAtU8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FJqLu7RAtU8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0262.jpgA boy at Phon Bontheay Yomreach villageThe side effects caused by products rich in sugar like softdrinks or sweets.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yblLDpn5D6Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yblLDpn5D6E/fit=1000x1000/MG-0257.jpgGirls at Phon Bontheay Yomreach villageTwo girls standing in a small trailer in Phon Bontheay Yomreach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oW5iDHjrAKEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oW5iDHjrAKE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0249.jpgKids at Phon Bontheay Yomreach villagePhon Bontheay Yomreach, located 30km east of Kompong Thom.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005ovGogDXpSchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005ovGogDXpSc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0237.jpgPhon Bontheay Yomreach villageMab's family rented this rice treshing machine to separate the rice grains from the straws and the husks. While the treshing was continuing, we spreaded the rice grains in the sun to dry.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000X4w82yqZ5IMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000X4w82yqZ5IM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0173.jpgPhon Bontheay Yomreach villageThe last days before leaving Cambodia Mab and i took the bus to join his family in Phon Bontheay Yomreach, located 30km east of Kompong Thom.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Uuj.588ZWPIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Uuj.588ZWPI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0026.jpgBoy and python at Chong Knea floating villageBoy playing with a python in Chong Khneas floating village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000R3atk4f_Vachttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000R3atk4f_Vac/fit=1000x1000/MG-0961.jpgCrocodiles at Chong Knea floating villageMost of the crocodiles hold around the Tonle Sap lake are Siamese crocodiles. These crocodiles were held in captivity in Chong Knea, a floating village on the Tonle Sap.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GDTNSuUMzv8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GDTNSuUMzv8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0929.jpgBonn Kathen festivalBonn Kathen festival along a street leading to the Chong Khneas floating village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RvL0LDxE568https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RvL0LDxE568/fit=1000x1000/MG-0881.jpgBeng MealeaThe old library, one of many ruins of the Beng Mealea temple site. Beng Mealea is accessible since it has been cleared from landmines in 2003. As the site was more or less left in the same condition as it was found, exploring the area might be more enjoyable as the better known touristic temples.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000q1yTHaR1GkEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000q1yTHaR1GkE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0854.jpgRice harvesting between Siema Reap and Beng MealeaAccording to "Wikipedia" - Cambodia has two rice crops each year, a monsoon-season crop (long-cycle) and a dry-season crop. The major monsoon crop is planted in late May through July, when the first rains of the monsoon season begin to inundate and soften the land. Rice shoots are transplanted from late June through September. The main harvest is usually gathered six months later, in December. The dry-season crop is smaller, and it takes less time to grow (three months from planting to harvest). It is planted in November in areas that have trapped or retained part of the monsoon rains, and it is harvested in January or February. The dry-season crop seldom exceeds 15 percent of the total annual production.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003xofv.QmCe4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003xofv.QmCe4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0852.jpgBoy seen between Siema Reap and Beng MealeaBoy swimming in a puddle along a ricefield located somewhere between Siem Reap and the road leading to the Beng Mealea temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GYqEqEOCdP4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GYqEqEOCdP4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0849.jpgRice harvesting between Siema Reap and Beng MealeaVillagers harvesting rice by hand somewhere between Siem Reap and the road leading to the Beng Mealea temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YtF4KqM02o0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YtF4KqM02o0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0835.jpgPhnom Kulen waterfallThe Kulen waterfall is located in the Phnom Kulen National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SCIcGNcVOkEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SCIcGNcVOkE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0761.jpgKompong Phluk floating villageChildren driving a boat on the Tonle Sap Lake near the Kompong Phluk floating village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KrdIDsgoKuUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KrdIDsgoKuU/fit=1000x1000/MG-8598.jpgKompong Phluk floating villageMy friend and guide Mab, sitting in a boat in a flooded mangrove forest located near the Kompong Phluk floating village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GZKIBs32hrkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GZKIBs32hrk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0644.jpgPreah KhanTwo devata figures carved on a wall in Preah Khan. Compared to an apsara, the devata is a goddess. The beautiful apsaras were supposed to dance for the enjoyment of the gods.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mzmITYnASjghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mzmITYnASjg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0625.jpgLotus flowersLotus flowers at Angkor Wat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oWp6RTciwiQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oWp6RTciwiQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0533.jpgAngkor Thom South GateThe three face-towers of the South Gate of Angkor Thom. The left side of the road is guarded by 54 guardian gods, also called "devas" and the right side by 54 demon gods, also called "asuras".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hUujNTuBbnkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hUujNTuBbnk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0528.jpgAngkor Thom South GateThere are 54 giant statues on both sides of the road, leading to the south gate of Angkor Thom.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.DJEpNBGWMYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.DJEpNBGWMY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0396.jpgBattambang to Siem Reap boat trip on Tonle Sap LakeA woman and her child waving to our boat as we passed by their floating house.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NTKxFMuteqUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NTKxFMuteqU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0355.jpgBattambang to Siem Reap boat trip on Tonle Sap LakeOne of the best boat journey i made in Cambodia was the trip across the large Tonle Sap lake and its connecting river systems to Battambang and Siem Reap. Compared to this tour, the touristic boat trips to the floating villages i made, were short, expensive and ... very touristic.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TV1u8L.JBrshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TV1u8L.JBrs/fit=1000x1000/MG-0344.jpgMan in a puddle at BattambangA man leaving a puddle water after he catched young ducks with a net.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005VJj5N_bRi0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005VJj5N_bRi0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0295.jpgFarmer at BattambangMost of the rice grown in Cambodia is produced in the Battambang province.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_UmLfbSJPWwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_UmLfbSJPWw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0338.jpgAlong Route PE3SDWe stop on Route PE3SD in the district of San Miguel de Mayocc for taking photos of the landscape.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IPkGeAqaFAohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IPkGeAqaFAo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1506.jpgPatapampa PassYareta plant seen on the Patapampa Pass. According to "Wikipedia" - The yareta is estimated to grow approximately 1.5 centimetres (15 mm) per year. Many yaretas are estimated to be over 3,000 years old.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ev42CeTkzC8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ev42CeTkzC8/fit=1000x1000/MG-3238.jpgKoh SamuiPare posing on the beach, near our hotel in Koh Samui.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aff0g11WMKEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aff0g11WMKE/fit=1000x1000/MG-3230.jpgKoh SamuiPare lying on the beach, near our hotel in Koh Samui.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006vaz8FqcHXMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006vaz8FqcHXM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2982.jpgWat Thai Charoen Phu KoiWat Thai Charoen Phu Koi is located in the Thai Charoen District, Yasothon.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NtiSQSsUQc4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NtiSQSsUQc4/fit=1000x1000/MG-7317.jpgDamnoen SaduakFloating market at Damnoen Saduak.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Pn0Ik86YatUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Pn0Ik86YatU/fit=1000x1000/MG-7398.jpgDamnoen SaduakRush hour at the floating market at Damnoen Saduak.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000McYSVfXZ6WUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000McYSVfXZ6WU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1587.jpgColca CanonAn andean female condor gliding in the sky with the moon behind it.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002oJi4pHwt6Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002oJi4pHwt6U/fit=1000x1000/MG-4827.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Pare's mother taking a short break on her rice field.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FHfYzr9d6DMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FHfYzr9d6DM/fit=1000x1000/MG-4794.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000I8VPqh5MAfghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000I8VPqh5MAfg/fit=1000x1000/MG-4753.jpgHua HinWoman selling lottery tickets in Hua Hin.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ftygyzq7YRshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ftygyzq7YRs/fit=1000x1000/MG-4605.jpgRanongView on the pool of the Blue Sky Resort in Ranong.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TaRhZGbVdCAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TaRhZGbVdCA/fit=1000x1000/MG-4102.jpgKoh Phi Phi LehView from a long-tail boat on Pileh Lagoon at Koh Phi Phi Leh Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vnL4SRZwya8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vnL4SRZwya8/fit=1000x1000/MG-4000.jpgKrabiView on some limestone hills in Krabi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E83_enBEZ2shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E83_enBEZ2s/fit=1000x1000/MG-7362.jpgDamnoen SaduakA woman selling fruits and vegetables on her boat at the floating market at Damnoen Saduak.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xoeov9Tgjf8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xoeov9Tgjf8/fit=1000x1000/MG-7343.jpgDamnoen SaduakAccording to "Wikipedia" - Damnoen Saduak Floating Market consists of a maze of narrow khlongs (canals), and can be navigated by boat. Female traders, often wearing traditional mo hom apparel (blue farmers' shirts) with wide-brimmed straw hats (ngob) use sampans (small wooden boats) to sell their wares, often produce that comes directly from farms. These boats are often full of vegetables and colorful fruits that are photogenic, and these images are used for tourism promotion. The market is often the busiest in the morning around 7 am to 9 am, and is active until noon.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004g4N6TjxGaohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004g4N6TjxGao/fit=1000x1000/MG-7302.jpgDamnoen SaduakA woman rowing her boat at Damnoen Saduak canal.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nRM4bEpGDLUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nRM4bEpGDLU/fit=1000x1000/MG-7255.jpgSamphranSamphran Crocodile Farm.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xeOYI_zTHpshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xeOYI_zTHps/fit=1000x1000/MG-7223.jpgSamphranVegetables and fruits are grown on the banks of Tha Chin River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000000VNENZhEFghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000000VNENZhEFg/fit=1000x1000/MG-7199.jpgSamphranA woman rowing her boat on Tha Chin River in Samphran.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CVlEvp1m5_chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CVlEvp1m5_c/fit=1000x1000/MG-7188.jpgKoh SichangKoh Sichang harbour seen from the chinese temple "San Chao Paw Khao Yai".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GWXLR853MZshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GWXLR853MZs/fit=1000x1000/MG-7130.jpgKoh SichangTham Phang Beach in Koh Sichang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005hGNYYeAnrohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005hGNYYeAnro/fit=1000x1000/MG-7184.jpgKoh SichangA part of Koh Sichang seen from the chinese temple "San Chao Paw Khao Yai"http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Qqn6DV9L7.Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Qqn6DV9L7.U/fit=1000x1000/MG-4980.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cS9lcJp5HbUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cS9lcJp5HbU/fit=1000x1000/MG-4986.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MZ1dWjD9SQEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MZ1dWjD9SQE/fit=1000x1000/MG-7098.jpgKoh SichangTham Phang Beach in Koh Sichang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ClmJADGUSqEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ClmJADGUSqE/fit=1000x1000/MG-4961.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Lunch break during rice harvesting on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aR172LKHMiMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aR172LKHMiM/fit=1000x1000/MG-4947.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Pare digging out some sweet potatoes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GIsOZn1iFMAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GIsOZn1iFMA/fit=1000x1000/MG-4915.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.According to "Wikipedia" - Rice production in Thailand represents a significant portion of the Thai economy and labor force. Forty percent of Thais work in agriculture, 16 million of them as rice farmers by one estimate. Thailand has a strong tradition of rice production. It has the fifth-largest amount of land under rice cultivation in the world and is the world's second largest exporter of rice.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E.tefIa7ATMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E.tefIa7ATM/fit=1000x1000/MG-6620.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweWhile we are cruising back to Sittwe, i enjoy to take some photos of the life scenes along the Kaladan river.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000frTrpjcvX1Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000frTrpjcvX1U/fit=1000x1000/MG-6589.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweAs described on arakanrivers.net, "Traditionally, rivers in Arakan have been used primarily for irrigation, transportation, fishing and navigation; however, at present their potential for hydropower generation is of greater significance to Burma’s ruling military junta. That Arakan’s rivers produce and support extremely fertile soil is widely known. Indeed, this rich soil was central to the development and prosperity of Arakan’s ancient cities. The annual floods of the rainy season further enrich the soil, as the rivers overflow their banks and deposit nutrient-rich silt over adjacent land. In these regularly-flooded areas agriculture, as well as fish and shrimp/prawn farming are widely practised by the majority of the population. For many, these activities constitute their sole sources of income or, in many cases, subsistence."http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000h93eOQR7AEAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000h93eOQR7AEA/fit=1000x1000/MG-6586.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweUnfortunately the photos taken on the Kaladan river reflects only one side of the reality. According to arakanrivers.net - "The Burmese regime and the Indian government are about to launch a multi-million dollar transport project that the Kaladan Movement believes will result in human rights abuses and environmental damage in Arakan and Chin States."http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000S4.gSg6Fm80https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000S4.gSg6Fm80/fit=1000x1000/MG-6583.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweA fisherman standing in the Kaladan river. He will check what he catched, and throw the net again over the water.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000._3D.eBI7fwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000._3D.eBI7fw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6552.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweOn the 31st of january we left Mrauk U one hour before sunrise.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000d5.LxD.sSPUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000d5.LxD.sSPU/fit=1000x1000/MG-6436.jpgMrauk UA man and his child, cycling on an empty main street of Mrauk U in the evening.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mytVfkAsjawhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mytVfkAsjaw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6420.jpgMrauk UYoung monks watching the game until they discoverd the camera behind their backs.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rTAHQO3cZs8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rTAHQO3cZs8/fit=1000x1000/MG-6360.jpgMrauk UThe small harbour of Mrauk U with our blue and white fisherboat in the background. Ask for one of these boats at the airport. This kind of transportation is much more expensive as the government run ferry but it's managed by the local people, so you don't give all your money to crazy Than Shwe. Furthermore, getting to Mrauk U by local boat is much more personal.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OT5a.R5LSm8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OT5a.R5LSm8/fit=1000x1000/MG-4866.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Pare, harvesting rice on the fields belonging to her family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ebYg3aZqh_Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ebYg3aZqh_I/fit=1000x1000/MG-4834.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AFFrZmCit0Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AFFrZmCit0Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-4832.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Pare, harvesting rice on the fields belonging to her family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000v.tp3PgLPqchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000v.tp3PgLPqc/fit=1000x1000/MG-4808.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ajCI6UI4QuIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ajCI6UI4QuI/fit=1000x1000/MG-4805.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000025pNpK4Nkvghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000025pNpK4Nkvg/fit=1000x1000/MG-4803.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000r7kfmPoIZTEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000r7kfmPoIZTE/fit=1000x1000/MG-4793.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZrX9gBUtS18https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZrX9gBUtS18/fit=1000x1000/MG-4791.jpgRice harvest season in Thai Charoen.Harvesting rice on the fields belonging to Pare's family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HnPBbHPeTOQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HnPBbHPeTOQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-4758.jpgHua HinA shop selling mangos in Hua Hin.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009x.IaWyaMAAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009x.IaWyaMAA/fit=1000x1000/MG-1164.jpgIsla de los Lobos, Beagle ChannelOn our second day in Ushuaia we asked for a boat trip along the Beagle channel with "Tres Marias Excursiones". The photo shows the Sea Lion Rookery on Isla de los Lobos. Our captain was Héctor Monsalve, also a fisherman and a famous professional underwater photographer with more than 30 years of experience, being a guide for scientists like Jacques Cousteau or many international broadcasting teams like ZDF or M6 Ushuaia... amongst others.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kcNf2WCfozUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kcNf2WCfozU/fit=1000x1000/MG-8123.jpgApatani girls in Hari villageAccording to "Wikipedia" - Murung is the Festival of Prosperity, celebrated by the Apatanis of Lower Subansiri district in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Though an individual festival, whole villages and indeed the whole of the Apatani people get involved in the festival. It is celebrated in the Month of January or Murung piilo. Besides it the Apatanis also celebrate Myoko in the month of march and the Dree Festival from 4 to 7 July every year.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZUCLGpSikrchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZUCLGpSikrc/fit=1000x1000/MG-7238.jpgCommon Redshank seen while leaving the Látrabjarg bird cliffsAfter leaving the Látrabjarg birdcliffs we saw a Common Redshank sitting on the top of a pole.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006ZTGheMUb8ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006ZTGheMUb8g/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5931.jpgBlack sand beach in KaikouraStone formations at the black sand beach of Kaikoura. Kaikoura is one of the famoust whale watching sites in the world.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Z98S.1_xGqohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Z98S.1_xGqo/fit=1000x1000/MG-8510.jpgHill Miri settlement on the way to DaporijoHill Miri tribe settlement, seen on our way to Daporijo. The Hill Miri are a Nyishi tribal group.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jONxlZ_fKfkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jONxlZ_fKfk/fit=1000x1000/MG-8077.jpgRice farming on Samosir Island at Lake TobaAn indonesian farmer preparing the soil before planting the rice seedlings.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nw438gVOTEYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nw438gVOTEY/fit=1000x1000/MG-7390.jpgAlaskan Lupine at the Námaskarð passAccording to "Wikipedia" - ...the plant has been used to combat erosion. In some places, however, this has caused problems because of the lupin spreading too quickly. It is not native to Iceland but grows very well there. Since others plants find it difficult to root in the loose, eroded soil where it is generally planted, the lupin can grow unhindered and creates monocultures which prevent native flora to flourish.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ytzP65tuNk8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ytzP65tuNk8/fit=1000x1000/MG-7324.jpgHverir, also known as Hverarönd located at the foothill of Námafjall, just near the Námaskarð passThe changing weather and light conditions were also a good opportunity to test the new neutral density graduated filters :-)http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TrmgChn.aDEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TrmgChn.aDE/fit=1000x1000/MG-7690.jpgSheeps seen somewhere near ÞingskálavegurJuvenile bighorn sheeps along Þingskálavegur also known as Route 268.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000h0hhq_3qrS8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000h0hhq_3qrS8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0358.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageThe tent in Graw Raw Ma Ni where the locals were gathered to listen the monks prayers during Shinbyu ceremony.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZCGvN0NoqJkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZCGvN0NoqJk/fit=1000x1000/MG-1626.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageLocal shaving the head of a boy during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZJcAqynjdUMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZJcAqynjdUM/fit=1000x1000/MG-1679.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageA young novice Buddhist monk just after beeing shaved by a local man.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008qrNOIMMhj4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008qrNOIMMhj4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1682.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageYoung novice Buddhist monk getting washed after the hair shaving ceremony.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gEBGs7c5GXAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gEBGs7c5GXA/fit=1000x1000/MG-1823.jpgOn Lemro River from Pain Ming to Sain Sai Kyaw VillageA man is herding his cattle with a big stick across Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wfH7LGXsT9Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wfH7LGXsT9A/fit=1000x1000/MG-1837.jpgGirl posing along Lemro RiverGirl posing along Lemro River between Pain Ming and Sain Sai Kyaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003_B9fiv2drghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003_B9fiv2drg/fit=1000x1000/MG-1783.jpgMarket in Pain MingWoman weighing betel leaves at a market in Pain Ming.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VM1KLE1lsBkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VM1KLE1lsBk/fit=1000x1000/MG-1765.jpgMarket in Pain MingWomen selling vegetables at a market in Pain Ming.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JorlAwcvdakhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JorlAwcvdak/fit=1000x1000/MG-1085.jpgBhaktapurView on Dattatreya Square from the rooftop of our guesthouse.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j16jErX5mu4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j16jErX5mu4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1109.jpgBhaktapurA young woman passing the royal palace's Golden Gate, called Lu Dhowka in Newari, which according to "Wikipedia" - is said to be the most beautiful and richly moulded specimen of its kind in the entire world.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ovK4mIZW798https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ovK4mIZW798/fit=1000x1000/MG-1137.jpgBhaktapurA woman and her daughter light candles during Diwali, the festival of lights.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H0LtXHr.abUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H0LtXHr.abU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1194.jpgBhaktapurA Nepalese man sitting on a wall before Bhairavnath Temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TLSX.I5k5sghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TLSX.I5k5sg/fit=1000x1000/MG-1210.jpgBhaktapurTwo chicken dozing on red bricks.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009ejDYarsYCohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009ejDYarsYCo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1213.jpgBhaktapurThe stairs of Nyatapola Temple. According to "Wikipedia" - One of the temples that are still in existence today is the Nyatapola Temple, which was built in 1702 A.D. under the rule of King Bhupatindra Malla. This beautifully sculptured building is considered one of the tallest pagodas in the country and is a lovely example of the immense workmanship that went into buildings of this type. This five-storey temple with a five-tier roof that stands just over thirty meters high can be reached by walking up a flight of steps that leads to the top of the platform. As you walk up these terraces you will notice that there are statues on either side of you, on every step.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lJKlHRqcejshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lJKlHRqcejs/fit=1000x1000/MG-1332.jpgBhaktapurA woman drying rice on a street, located between Taumadhi Square and the square of Khalna Tole.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000V03y_6LMAQUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000V03y_6LMAQU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1382.jpgBhaktapurA woman drying rice at the big square of Khalna Tole.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000qCrIfnB6y7khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000qCrIfnB6y7k/fit=1000x1000/MG-1449.jpgBhaktapurPortrait of a Nepalese girl, taken near the Khalna Tole Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sRZwf09QnHwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sRZwf09QnHw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1439.jpgBhaktapurA boy pushing his bycicle - overloaded with rice straws, on a street leading to the Khalna Tole Sqare.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004aoMlsbnJmwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004aoMlsbnJmw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1072.jpgBhaktapurStreet scene at Taumadhi Square, early in the morning.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YbGmZdt0zDMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YbGmZdt0zDM/fit=1000x1000/MG-1419.jpgBhaktapurA man sleeping at the foot of Chayslin Dega Mandap in Durbar Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JrQuA4MWcGYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JrQuA4MWcGY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0992.jpgBhaktapurStreet scene in Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A2eyJn_aXpEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A2eyJn_aXpE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1126.jpgBhaktapurGirls students talking together somewhere in Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lfNPJ4zYnsohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lfNPJ4zYnso/fit=1000x1000/MG-1212.jpgBhaktapurA colourful, rural scene lit by the noon sun in Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000G2Dth8uHy90https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000G2Dth8uHy90/fit=1000x1000/MG-1262.jpgBhaktapurView of Durbar Square in Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MmkRru8anEYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MmkRru8anEY/fit=1000x1000/MG-1303.jpgBhaktapurA sandstone lion statue in Durbar Square, Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006Vg4VBeL5wEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006Vg4VBeL5wE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1134.jpgBhaktapurAn elder women standing behind her carved wood balcony in Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OhuSC8416Gghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OhuSC8416Gg/fit=1000x1000/MG-1209.jpgBhaktapurA puppy dog sitting along a side road in Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TuL5GHtn4y4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TuL5GHtn4y4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1224.jpgBhaktapurA Tangka painter photographed in a shop in Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fwAQ4Tji.dohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fwAQ4Tji.do/fit=1000x1000/MG-1276.jpgBhaktapurA family gathered near the Royal Palace in Bhaktapur's Durbar Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jfWlI85n978https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jfWlI85n978/fit=1000x1000/MG-1295.jpgBhaktapurThree women talking at the Golden Gate's entrance of the Royal Palace in Durbar Square, Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vDE0ApXcOrQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vDE0ApXcOrQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1156.jpgBhaktapurWhile people were crowding around a dispute on a main road in Bhaktapur, i noticed this family observing the gathering.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cDCKKH7n8zchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cDCKKH7n8zc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1057.jpgBhaktapurA woman warming up in her blanket at the foot of a shrine near Nyatapola Temple in Taumadhi Square, Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000eRYG_XTua1Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000eRYG_XTua1M/fit=1000x1000/MG-1149.jpgBhaktapurThe Pottery Square, located south west of Taumadhi Tole in Bhaktapur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000r3hNz46bmwohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000r3hNz46bmwo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2531.jpgCraftman shop in KhajurahoThere is an interesting craftman shop near the Ghantai Temple called "Talking Trees of Kulbel". The owner, Mister Rajendra Singh, displays a lot of ebony carvings for sale. Ebony wood is extremely hard, making it very difficult to carve.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Hb1jyl0XMrAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Hb1jyl0XMrA/fit=1000x1000/MG-7870.jpgGrubs at Itanagar marketA young woman selling grubs at the market in Itanagar. Grubs are nutricious as they provide a high-protein value.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oj5O6rEwdRshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oj5O6rEwdRs/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6712.jpgGirls posing in Nong KhiawTwo girls, one of them is eating sticky rice, posing for the camera in Nong Kiau.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000d9LjIJQVsukhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000d9LjIJQVsuk/fit=1000x1000/MG-9041.jpgWoman buying fish at AimereA woman buying fish in Aimere while we were leaving the guesthouse. Aimere is located in the Manggarai regency in the eastern part of Flores.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sPCg.mecZnghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sPCg.mecZng/fit=1000x1000/MG-1554.jpgCabanacondeA girl posing near her house in Cabanacondehttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000010Hi6J4WvLQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000010Hi6J4WvLQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2024.jpgNazca LinesView on the hummingbird. The Nazca Lines were declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000V.cu5SabVu8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000V.cu5SabVu8/fit=1000x1000/MG-1541.jpgColca CanonOn the way to Cabanaconde we stop near the viewpoint of Cruz del Condor.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UbTMF6TKHIUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UbTMF6TKHIU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1542.jpgCabanacondeThe church in Cabanaconde, near the Plaza de Armas. If you want to watch the condors soaring in the early morning sky at Cruz del Condor, the village of Cabanaconde is the best place for an overnight stay.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wLi6tk7nuNchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wLi6tk7nuNc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1628.jpgColca CanonA male condor soaring over Colca Canon.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XPar2tzOZ9Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XPar2tzOZ9M/fit=1000x1000/MG-1704.jpgColca CanonRemainings of a cow after beeing eaten by condors.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ToYUTQYjKLshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ToYUTQYjKLs/fit=1000x1000/MG-1771.jpgColca CanonView on the fields near Colca Canon.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cuHjJQ8jFhwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cuHjJQ8jFhw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2140.jpgChauchilla CemeteryPrehispanic human bones at the Chauchilla Cemetary where Nazca Culture remainings - some of them, dated back to 1000 AD, were discovered in the 1920's.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000G.N22u44XCwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000G.N22u44XCw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1291.jpgIsla Uros GaviotaUros woman tying a boat on the floating Island "Isla Uros Gaviota".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dwUddhoIUxEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dwUddhoIUxE/fit=1000x1000/MG-8003.jpgApatani woman in Hari villageAn Apatani woman in Hari village. The tribes living in Arunashal Pradesh and the bordering state of Nagaland are rarely visited by tourists.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004mQt6EJOR.Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004mQt6EJOR.M/fit=1000x1000/MG-8328.jpgMithun sacrifice in Tajang and Bulla Lemba areaApatani people gathered around the sacrifice area somewhere in the Tajang and Bulla Lemba area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004SEIvYBI3TYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004SEIvYBI3TY/fit=1000x1000/MG-8952.jpgWalking from Sisen to PonggingCloseup of a mithun while we were walking from Sisen to Pongging. Usually mithuns are not kept behind fences. Even if they live in the dense forest, these bovines are docile and gentle.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yAsT.w2X72khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yAsT.w2X72k/fit=1000x1000/MG-0258.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageAccording to "Wikipedia" - The big day starts early with a procession called the shinlaung hlè pwe to the monastery, the young boy dressed in resplendent silks embroidered with gold as a royal prince or king, shielded from the sun by a gold umbrella and led on horseback by an orchestral band headed by a clown with a moustache called U Shwe Yoe holding a parasol and dancing merrily. This ritual symbolises Prince Siddhartha Gautama's departure from the royal palace with its sensuous pleasures and luxuries at the age of twenty nine, leaving his wife and newborn son in search of the Four Noble Truths. Behind his horse follows the family, his proud parents carrying the monastic robes and other eight requisites, called pareihkara shippa and his sisters or young village maidens carrying ceremonial boxes of paan (kundaung gaing) and lotus blossoms (pandaung gaing) all in their best silks with the rest of the joyous party completing the procession.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WEbKoVCWMlQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WEbKoVCWMlQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-8201.jpgView from Pusuk Buhit on ricefields on Samosir Island, Lake TobaAfter a rainy day we were rewarded with great views on the colorful, terraced rice fields.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000peSmr_dt91Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000peSmr_dt91Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-3460.jpgBako National ParkProboscis monkey, but also saltwater crocodiles, can be seen near the mangrove tree swamps in Bako National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000eHZaLqZhcgYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000eHZaLqZhcgY/fit=1000x1000/MG-1395.jpgLa Boca in Buenos AiresThe picturesque artist's quarter of "La Boca" has also a lot of tango clubs and italian restaurants.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000teNTlPMV4Fghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000teNTlPMV4Fg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2739.jpgAmber Fort in JaipurAccording to "Wikipedia" - In Februaryy 1562, Hira Kunwar, daughter of Bharmal (1547-1573), Raja of Amber, was wed to the Mughal emperor Akbar at a grand ceremony held at the town of Sambhar, the son born through this marriage being none other than the next Mughal emperor Jahangir. This pragmatic alliance created a major shift in the balance of power within the Indian subcontinent and ushered a period of harmonious co-operation between the Rajputs and the Mughals.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000l3tEx.B0qGQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000l3tEx.B0qGQ/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6631.jpgA girl posing in Ban Xang Hai also called Whisky villageWe made a short stop at Ban Xang Hai before we continued our boat tour to the Pak Ou caves. On the same boat we met a very nice couple, with we stayed together for the next days.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FwTN085sfBMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FwTN085sfBM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2165.jpgParacas National ReserveA peruvian seagull taking a rest at Playa Roja in Paracas National Reserve.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LsLyJ9KRl7Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LsLyJ9KRl7E/fit=1000x1000/MG-5778.jpgKrafla volcanic areaSteam around Krafla. The volcanic system of Krafla includes also a dangerous and still active volcano called Leirhnjúkur which was formed in 1727.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KKuy8JzxYlwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KKuy8JzxYlw/fit=1000x1000/MG-8340.jpgMithun sacrifice in Tajang and Bulla Lemba areaToday Mithuns are facing significant risks of extinction due to mass slaughtering during festivals. There are many associations nowadays in those regions promoting awareness for the respect of these bovines.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cAXacVx0uDohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cAXacVx0uDo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1093.jpgUshuaia harbourUshuaia, the capital of the argentinian archipelago "Tiera del Fuego" is also well-known as the southernmost city in the World. The photo shows the Harbour of Ushuaia.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009DiTuJ8c6V4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009DiTuJ8c6V4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0792.jpgMount Everest TrekFrom Lobuche to Gorak Shep with view on Khangri (6789m) , Pumori (7161m) and the black hill below called Kala Pattar (5545m), Lingtren (6714m), Khumbutse (6636m) and Changtse (7543m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gTXsa6kl_Dchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gTXsa6kl_Dc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6176.jpgBetween Tongariro National Park and NapierSomewhere between Tongariro National Park and Napier.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000EAGPKO4ID8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000EAGPKO4ID8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6720.jpgView over Nong KiauAccording to "Wikitravel" - Nong Khiaw (Nong Kiau or Nong Kiew) is a rustic little town on the bank of the Ou River in Laos. It is squeezed in between some of the most fantastic limestone mountains north of Vang Vieng. Many travellers pass through on the way up river to the even more isolated Muang Ngoi, but Nong Khiaw has a plenty of charm, a decent range of accommodation, plus conveniences suchas 24 hour electricity and a connection to the road network for those interested in exploring the surrounding area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZTk4st7e8xohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZTk4st7e8xo/fit=1000x1000/MG-9194.jpgMbalata BeachWe stayed for one night at the Mbalata Beach Cottages & Eco Lodge.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000057oF02O6DxEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000057oF02O6DxE/fit=1000x1000/MG-9324.jpgIndian girl along the Brahmaputra riverbankAn Indian girl selling bananas. Seen along the riverbank of Brahmaputra, on the way from Oiramghat to Dibrugarh.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wrqghgBoW4khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wrqghgBoW4k/fit=1000x1000/MG-3442.jpgProboscis monkey at Bako National ParkA female proboscis monkey, better known as "long-nosed" monkey or "Dutchman", photographed one or two hours after we arrived at Bako National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A9RJRwF8Gykhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A9RJRwF8Gyk/fit=1000x1000/MG-9161.jpgGunung Inerie seen from Mbalata BeachThe 2245m high Inerie volcano seen from Mbalata Beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SHB8nfmnzvEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SHB8nfmnzvE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0153.jpgChildren playing along bamboo train railwayKids playing along the bamboo train railway.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000N4cDR2jj6Q8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000N4cDR2jj6Q8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5457.jpgDucks near a peer in HusavikAfter visiting the most powerful waterfall of Europe in the morning, we decided to drive further to the north. We stopped as Mike woke up behind the steering wheel: Surprise!, we arrived in Husavik where we were supposed to buy some nice clothes in one of the biggest 66°NORTH stores in Island. We were welcomed by some friendly ducks, but unfortunately the store was close. So we pimped up Mike with 4 cans of "NALU" and he drove us further to the north.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005uzQns6dW6Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005uzQns6dW6Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-9227.jpgLeaving the CONAF Refugio, heading Volcán Isluga National ParkAfter a cold night in the CONAF Refugio we start a beautiful day driving ahead Volcan Isluga National Park. On the photo you can se old ruins probably formerly used by vicunas shepherds.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BTTUD.9okb4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BTTUD.9okb4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0333.jpgHelambu TrekView on the Mountains, as seen from Magengoth, near the Green View Lodge.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004d1F4hdsZ3khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004d1F4hdsZ3k/fit=1000x1000/MG-7869.jpgGrubs at Itanagar marketLiving grubs at the market in Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh state.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QDVT.NT_sxMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QDVT.NT_sxM/fit=1000x1000/MG-7897.jpgHouses on stiltsWe stop our cars somewhere along the route leading to Potin for visiting the area near stilt houses.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000N3hRPQjbk.shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000N3hRPQjbk.s/fit=1000x1000/MG-8269.jpgWomen at water well in Tajang and Bulla Lemba areaWomen washing salad leaves at a water well somewhere in the Tajang and Bulla Lemba area. Tajang and Bulla are closely connected villages.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000J2Z5YBH7dXQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000J2Z5YBH7dXQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-8432.jpgAn Apatani boy sitting on a bicycle in Hari villageA boy starring at the camera while he is sitting on his cool bicycle in Hari village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000qFSk31s_a9ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000qFSk31s_a9o/fit=1000x1000/MG-8462.jpgAn Apatani man in Tajang and Bulla Lemba area.According to "Wikipedia" - Apatanis have few unique special characteristic features which differs from other tribes in Arunachal Pradesh and India. Few of these special characteristic features are: (A) Apatanis are permanently settled in one place whereas other tribes are nomadic in nature move from one place to another in search of fertile lands. They travel vast area of forests and settle temporarily for not more than four to five years in one place. (B) Apatanis cultivate permanent wet land cultivations whereas other tribes practice dry land cultivations by clearing the forests by burning the jungles. (C) Apatanis used to practice facial tattoos before; now they have dropped this custom few decades back.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LLYo4A3_324https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LLYo4A3_324/fit=1000x1000/MG-8449.jpgAn Apatani girl in Tajang and Bulla Lemba area.A girl wearing a Donyi-Polo pendant around her neck. Donyi Polo is the animist religion in which most of the tribes believe in Arunachal Pradesh.The divinities are the sun (Donyi) and the moon (Polo) also representing the energy of female and man.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dHv1mGnob7ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dHv1mGnob7o/fit=1000x1000/MG-8682.jpgWalking from Komsing to Karo.According to "Wikipedia" - Arunachal Pradesh is one of the 28 states of India. Located in northeast India, Arunachal Pradesh borders the states of Assam and Nagaland to the south, and shares international borders with Bhutan in the west, Myanmar in the east and the People's Republic of China in the north. Itanagar is the capital of the state. China claims most of the state as part of Tibet and calls the disputed area South Tibet.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MGHQrqua49Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MGHQrqua49Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-4015.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenLooking down into the crater i noticed that it was a very active place. A lot of indonesian workers tried to get their load out of the crater by following a treacherous path. Each basket is pressing a weight between 60-100kg on one shoulder.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mXEgoMNu_UIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mXEgoMNu_UI/fit=1000x1000/MG-3992.jpgGirls posing in JampitThree javanese girls enjoying posing for the camera in Jampit.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xwt4Dnl8qJchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xwt4Dnl8qJc/fit=1000x1000/MG-3991.jpgJampitA small village between the "coffee"-village Jampit and the waterfall.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PcmOwYdIZoshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PcmOwYdIZos/fit=1000x1000/MG-3985.jpgBoys posing in JampitThis three Javanese boys enjoyed posing for a couple of photos.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000R7WHbFVoVq0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000R7WHbFVoVq0/fit=1000x1000/MG-3971.jpgVillage in JavaShortly before we arrived at Jampit we saw the courtyard of a village where young people kept themselves entertained.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QxHPUGeqUsUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QxHPUGeqUsU/fit=1000x1000/MG-3957.jpgRicefield between Bondowoso and JampitOur next destination was the Ijen Plateau. After our journey at Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park we took a minivan from Cemoro Lawang to Probolinggo. A taxi drove us from Probolinggo to Jampit. This photo was taken somewhere between Bondowoso and Jampit.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008lbwaiBeGpohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008lbwaiBeGpo/fit=1000x1000/MG-3922.jpgWomen at Cemoro LawangI went along with the two farmer women on the path leading back to the village for a while. Later, at evening, a spanish guy, my travelling companion and i were invited for dinner by a sympathetic man. As we entered the house i saw the lady - posing right on the photo, cooking an appetizing meal. Coincidentally, she was the housewife.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vjSbwSCMaMghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vjSbwSCMaMg/fit=1000x1000/MG-3900.jpgWoman posing in Cemoro LawangA farmer woman posing for my camera.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004lARNgeb_7Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004lARNgeb_7Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-3896.jpgCemoro LawangA women is resting in a field as her child is playing in it.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XDhk6JMXAJshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XDhk6JMXAJs/fit=1000x1000/MG-3889.jpgCemoro LawangAs the soil around volcanoes is always very fertile, the locals use it for farming. I took this picture in the vicinity of our guesthouse.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tkcN6AueB38https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tkcN6AueB38/fit=1000x1000/MG-3854.jpgHorseman at Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkA tenggerese horseman taking a rest near the stairs which lead to the top of Mount Bromo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000or3_qo.r958https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000or3_qo.r958/fit=1000x1000/MG-3859.jpgBromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkA woman and his son looking down on the vast plain of Tengger Caldera. The protected nature reserve is called "Lautan Pasir" which means "Sand Sea".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Q1ALy_HFxfUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Q1ALy_HFxfU/fit=1000x1000/MG-3845.jpgBoy at Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkA boy spending some time in the National Park on a sunday morning.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ft52f7mRDS8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ft52f7mRDS8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1976.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.A white fish being cleaned by two Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse (Labroides dimidiatus).Seen while snorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000L0dBApPgVEMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000L0dBApPgVEM/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1413.jpgDiving around Labuan BajoManta, seen while diving at Manta Point, a diving spot around Labuan Bajo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ipFCYJ7fEq4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ipFCYJ7fEq4/fit=1000x1000/MG-9791.jpgSeraya BeachSeraya Island is located approximately 10km north of Labuan Bajo. Seraya Island is nice for relaxing and fabulous for snorkeling, the reef is only steps away from the beach huts.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bV2Ck7wBnI4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bV2Ck7wBnI4/fit=1000x1000/MG-9427.jpgKomodo dragons on Rinca IslandThe Komodo dragon is generally found on Komodo and Rinca but you can also observe these huge lizards on Flores, Padar and other islands around Flores. Komodo National Park has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VUXEOI3Gj2khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VUXEOI3Gj2k/fit=1000x1000/MG-9338.jpgLingko spiderweb rice fields seen from CancarView over the round shaped (lingko) spider web rice fields from the top of a hill in Cancar.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cecvetau__Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cecvetau__Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-9261.jpgDriving to Lake RanameseView over the ricefields and the forests along a street leading to Lake Ranamese.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j7eQBa8ymSIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j7eQBa8ymSI/fit=1000x1000/MG-8990.jpgNgada village of BenaBena is a Ngada village famous for its traditional houses and the stone age builded megaliths. At the village you have a nice view on Inerie volcano.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JRDLDQCAihYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JRDLDQCAihY/fit=1000x1000/MG-8852.jpgTwo girls sitting near a restaurant in BoawaePortrait of two girls, taken in a restaurant in Boawae, just before driving further to Bajawa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CMc4ytB.syIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CMc4ytB.syI/fit=1000x1000/MG-8644.jpgKid standing in a water ditch in MoniPortrait of a kid standing in a water ditch in Moni set in front of our guesthouse. Moni is closely located near Mount Kelimutu, a 1730m high volcano.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aoOEMGpgKNkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aoOEMGpgKNk/fit=1000x1000/MG-8623.jpgPortrait of a girl in MoniA girl with facial mask, seen on the way leading up to the Kelimutu Craters. Kelimutu National Park is known as a natural attraction, especially for its three coloured lakes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000b0d18kFi.H0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000b0d18kFi.H0/fit=1000x1000/MG-2772.jpgOld DelhiOur driver at a gas station in Delhi. My last photo before we were driven to the airport.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MtUpVSZv1pIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MtUpVSZv1pI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2767.jpgBoy picking up rubbish in Old DelhiIndia is almost certainly the country where the gap between the rich and the poor is huger than anywhere else. Due to undereducation, overpopulation, corruption, the acceptance of poverty on one side and the non-care from the rich on the other side, it is realistic to pretend that India will remain a country of timeless poverty where common people live a hopeless existance without any future.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UZP71pPLLlMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UZP71pPLLlM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2652.jpgTaj MahalSince many years the authenticity of Taj Mahal has been controversially discussed. There are many legends associated with its origins and its name. The most famous story says that the Taj Mahal was built under the Moghul King Shah Jahan, in memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, a Persian Princess originally known as Arjumand Banu Begum, who died after giving birth to her fourteenth child. Therefore, Taj Mahal became the symbol of eternal love. Another theorie says that the white marble monument was originally a Hindu temple. The indian writer P.N. Oak claims that the Taj Mahal was built long before the reign of Moghul King Shah Jahan. Currently, historical research insinuates that the legend was probably not a love story. Apparently, the Moghul King was a little bit megalomaniacal. A little further on, the legend says that - as the King became older,- he spent his remaining days by looking on his beloved wife's tomb through the window of Agra Fort, where he became a prisoner. Actually, his remaining days were probably more funny and exciting than that. If it is true, he ended his life with excessive drug parties and sex orgies.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vG43irXjgBkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vG43irXjgBk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2642.jpgTaj MahalThe Taj Mahal, India's most famous tourist attraction, attracting more than 2 million visitors per year. Many architectural wonders are less impressive as you might expect, but the Taj Mahal is one of the most astonishing piece of art i've ever seen. The perfectly molded white marble stones give it its beauty and elegance. According to "Wikipedia" - the Taj Mahal (also "the Taj") is considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements from Persian, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. In 1983, the Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was cited as "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage." While the white domed marble mausoleum is its most familiar component, the Taj Mahal is actually an integrated complex of structures. Building began around 1632 and was completed around 1653, and employed thousands of artisans and craftsmen.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RW6L6F_jvpIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RW6L6F_jvpI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2617.jpgMarket in AgraMost of the street merchands build up their stalls in the old city part of Agra near Taj Mahal. Despite the poverty, or perhaps because of it, the atmosphere at the bazaars was very inviting.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dj6zdKFdG1ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dj6zdKFdG1o/fit=1000x1000/MG-2614.jpgBoy looking at squirrel in AgraRooftop scene of a boy feeding a squirrel. We had an interesting view over Agra from a restaurant roof.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SE2AAqRmb8ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SE2AAqRmb8o/fit=1000x1000/MG-2597.jpgSquirrel near Agra FortThis squirrel was photographed near the entrance of Agra Fort. Most of the indian places we visited were more or less invaded by squirrels.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SR8PW1wHK4Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SR8PW1wHK4U/fit=1000x1000/MG-2461.jpgView over VaranasiYou can observe a lot of monkeys in Varanasi jumping from roof to roof; and if the opportunity presents itself, they will try to steal your goods. For that reason you should never leave the window open, unless it's secured by a grill. Occasionally the sky over Varanasi is surrounded by kites, and later at night, the riverbanks are illuminated by the fires of cremation.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FfgdgcN.CfUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FfgdgcN.CfU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2403.jpgGirl cutting lawn in SarnathCutting the lawn like this girl does, is one of the possibilities to earn some money in India. Aditionally, from time to time, they get some money from tourists when they take pictures of them. I know, it is written in a lot of books that you shouldn't pay attention when people beg for money. Such general declarations make me feel rather nervous. If poor people ask you food, money or whatever for being photographed, feel free to give them whatever you want.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UnASBVGog4Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UnASBVGog4Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-2401.jpgDhamek Stupa in SarnathWe liked to look at the Buddhist people walk around the massive Dhamek Stupa of Sarnath.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W0NhZ.NBbUghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W0NhZ.NBbUg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2384.jpgSarnathIf you need some tranquility, the peaceful environment of Sarnath is a good occasion to flee from busy Varanasy. The ancient Buddhist Site is located around 10km north-east from Varanasi. In the background you can see a wall coated partially with golden leafs.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000039.mPiy.yEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000039.mPiy.yE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2347.jpgBoy in VaranasiA boy running along the waterside of the Ganges.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_OqF5xO4Iychttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_OqF5xO4Iyc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2344.jpgVaranasiA mother and her boy enjoying the morning view at Varanasi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CO4ijUYjr7chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CO4ijUYjr7c/fit=1000x1000/MG-2339.jpgSpreaded lanundry on a ghat in VaranasiAt many places you can see the laundry spread out all over the steps of the ghats to be dried under the sun.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WOmi46SrbMYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WOmi46SrbMY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2334.jpgGanges River in VaranasiEmpty boats along the Ganges River...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000w9_AXMQxxgwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000w9_AXMQxxgw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2298.jpgSaddhus in VaranasiVaranasi was our first destination on our India trip. Despite the calmness of the two meditating and resting Sadhus, we made a very hectic experience as we were walking through the crowded city with loaded backpacks on our shoulders. We didn't felt very comfortable as we were looking around and we were permanently surrounded by annoying guys playing guides while they were trying to compel us to follow them to their guesthouses.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yU.RtPq1Q9Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yU.RtPq1Q9I/fit=1000x1000/MG-2727.jpgAmber Fort in JaipurAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Fort is unique in that its outside, an imposing and rugged defensive structure, is markedly different from its inside, an ornate, lavish interior influenced by both Hindu and Muslim (Mughal) styles of ornamentation. The walls of the interior of the fort are covered with murals, frescoes, and paintings depicting various scenes from daily life. Other walls are covered with intricate carvings, mosaic, and minute mirror work.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000O7hy_sdFaDwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000O7hy_sdFaDw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2736.jpgAmber Fort in JaipurAmber is encircled by mountain chains and was once protected by an impressive wall interrupted by look-out posts. While Jaigarh Fort was built on top of the hill, Amber Fort is situated on the bottom.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rc25K0p4vDUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rc25K0p4vDU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2706.jpgAmber Fort in JaipurIndian people sightseeing the surrounding areas through a broken carved shutter of a window. The people who lived in the fort could see everything through the carved shutter without beeing seen.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Nc7eJbL2mQQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Nc7eJbL2mQQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2693.jpgAmber Fort in JaipurOn our journey, we hired a driver to see the sights around Jaipur. Situated 11km north of Jaipur, Amber Fort was our first choice and we didn't regret it! Amber Fort is very huge and you have some nice views down over the village. Because of it's impressive size, you should visit Amber Fort independently, without joining a group; so, you can stay there as long as you want.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WP89ePz9TGshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WP89ePz9TGs/fit=1000x1000/MG-2672.jpgJaipurFriendly people driving on a non-traffic jammed road of Jaipur, also known as the "pink city". I took this picture during a rickshaw ride, sitting opposed to the traffic.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HXoPaZpU5uYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HXoPaZpU5uY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2555.jpgWomen washing clothes at a ghat in KhajurahopA ghat in Khajuraho, used for washing. The women are working hard to get the laundry beautifuly clean.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PWz4SH2R2Tshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PWz4SH2R2Ts/fit=1000x1000/MG-2553.jpgWoman in KhajurahoHow women's clothes can remain clean in a place where dirt lies around and dust pollute the air day by day?http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VU0DKLGz7aAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VU0DKLGz7aA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2549.jpgSquirrel in Chaturbhuja templeA curious squirrel between carved stones of the Chaturbhuja temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Sr4RA.IWdXMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Sr4RA.IWdXM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2534.jpgBoy crossing a river in KhajurahoAs we saw the boy crossing the river, we asked ourselves what we should do on the other side? So, we decided to turn back to the village of Khajuraho. Furthermore, the river was probably infested by piranhas, crocodiles and giant snakes :-).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000njZ4zfIuPNghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000njZ4zfIuPNg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2538.jpgKhajuraho bike tourMarco fixing the slipped chain on his hi-tech cycle. The pathways between the temple groups are pretty cool and often used by the residents of Khajuraho. We met a lot of people there.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000docEt5qHioUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000docEt5qHioU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2473.jpgKhajuraho templesThe village Khajuraho, located nearly 400km west of Varanasi is inscribed in Unesco's World Heritage List for its magnificient temple groups. Well-known for the large amount of erotic sculptures, the Khajuraho temple complex has been divided in three groups: the eastern group, the western group and the southern group. The temple in this photo is situated in the western group complex.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_Y98Ju6kC5Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_Y98Ju6kC5A/fit=1000x1000/MG-2528.jpgSchool in KhajurahoOn our second day we decided to hire a bike to explore the area in Khajuraho. We first drove our bicycles toward the south group temples. We made a short break near a school where schoolchilds were just cleaning their breakfast bowls.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hsW_CimrpdQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hsW_CimrpdQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-9519.jpgBird at Kaziranga National ParkAccording to "Wikipedia" - Kaziranga National Park is a national park in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of the state of Assam, India. A World Heritage Site, the park hosts two-thirds of the world's Great One-horned Rhinoceroses. Kaziranga boasts the highest density of tigers among protected areas in the world and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006. The park is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer. Kaziranga is recognized as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International for conservation of avifaunal species. Compared to other protected areas in India, Kaziranga has achieved notable success in wildlife conservation. Located on the edge of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, the park combines high species diversity and visibility.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.gYP6q6caS0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.gYP6q6caS0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9510.jpgGreat Indian one-horned Rhinoceros at Kaziranga National ParkAn Indian rhinoceros at the central part of Kaziranga National Park. The one-horned rhinoceros is a very good swimmer and it can run very fast, reaching a maximum speed of 50 km/h for a short period of time.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000U1iPsXgVF2Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000U1iPsXgVF2Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-9495.jpgBarasingha at Kaziranga National ParkA male Barasingha deer pup and his mother looking at our jeep, which we are driving through the central part of Kaziranga National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TFFFQOpuASohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TFFFQOpuASo/fit=1000x1000/MG-9472.jpgWater buffalo at Kaziranga National ParkA wild water buffalo at the western part of Kaziranga National Park. According to "Wikipedia"- Kaziranga has the largest population of the Wild water buffalo anywhere accounting for about 57% of the world population.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_1oiQfXkRzohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_1oiQfXkRzo/fit=1000x1000/MG-9348.jpgSky over Brahmaputra RiverAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Brahmaputra enters India in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, where it is called Siang. It makes a very rapid descent from its original height in Tibet, and finally appears in the plains, where it is called Dihang. It flows for about 35 kilometres (22 mi) and is joined by the Dibang River and the Lohit River at the head of the Assam Valley. Below the Lohit the river is called Brahmaputra, enters the state of Assam and becomes very wide—as wide as 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) in parts of Assam.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OvQVhYC1aYghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OvQVhYC1aYg/fit=1000x1000/MG-9342.jpgFerry on Brahmaputra RiverLocal people, a few tourists and a lot of big kettles of milk were transported by ferry from Oiramghat to Dibrugarh.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Jqi0lai_W.shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Jqi0lai_W.s/fit=1000x1000/MG-9219.jpgThree women in PasighatPhoto of three women i met on a street in Pasighat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004wW6QGzUMxYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004wW6QGzUMxY/fit=1000x1000/MG-9216.jpgWomen selling oranges in PasighatWomen selling oranges in small bamboo baskets along a street in Pasighat. Oranges from Arunachal Pradesh are famous for their delicious taste.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007IHGm8M0_YEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007IHGm8M0_YE/fit=1000x1000/MG-8965.jpgWalking from Sisen to PonggingScenic view, seen just before the end of our day's march to Pongging.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003VH5e4ltPiQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003VH5e4ltPiQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-8951.jpgWalking from Sisen to PonggingA mithun standing in the middle of the forest path leading from Sisen to Pongging.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000080EPc6m9NRIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000080EPc6m9NRI/fit=1000x1000/MG-8884.jpgSisenPortrait of a baby in Sisen village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000036QViTKYlcghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000036QViTKYlcg/fit=1000x1000/MG-8880.jpgAngel's trumpets and orange tree in SisenAngel's trumpets and an orange tree, seen at Sisen village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004IkhLGkfrsYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004IkhLGkfrsY/fit=1000x1000/MG-8862.jpgLandscape scene in SisenView from Sisen village on an orange tree and the lush, green forest around the village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007PduQ22vJDohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007PduQ22vJDo/fit=1000x1000/MG-8877.jpgHomemade bullet in SisenA man is shaping a bullet with a hammer.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VDB6Bu7wkOUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VDB6Bu7wkOU/fit=1000x1000/MG-8754.jpgFrom Pangi to SisenAmazing view on the hills and Brahmaputra River, also called Dihang River or Siang River in Arunachal Pradesh.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vD8j7nwKmu4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vD8j7nwKmu4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8749.jpgFrom Pangi to SisenLandscape scenery taken from Pangi village just before starting the one journey walk to Sisen village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000almMkefR810https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000almMkefR810/fit=1000x1000/MG-8727.jpgBrahmaputra RiverView on a bridge suspended over Siang River (Brahmaputra River). Seen from Pangi village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YEtVPXPsVZshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YEtVPXPsVZs/fit=1000x1000/MG-8712.jpgGirl in PangiA girl posing in Pangi village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xbB0eEQFbQMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xbB0eEQFbQM/fit=1000x1000/MG-8691.jpgBamboo forest between Komsing and KaroBamboo forest, seen somewhere between Komsing and Karo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005E8hYuKzCPshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005E8hYuKzCPs/fit=1000x1000/MG-8672.jpgView of the landscape around KomsingAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Minyong are a tribe of the Adi people, a tribal people living in Arunachal Pradesh, India. The Minyong are found in East Siang, Upper Siang and West Siang district. They have originated from Riga Village. Their villages are mostly found on the right and left bank of river Siang (Brahmaputra), starting from Tuting-Gelling to plains of Assam, Jonai. They consider Donyi-Polo as their religion but recently there has been conversion to Christianity. Minyong people are known for their bravery as they have fought war against British Expedition to the hilly region in late 19th century.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005W7Cml_mghAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005W7Cml_mghA/fit=1000x1000/MG-8614.jpgAdi man in Jomlo MongkuAn Adi man wearing traditional clothes at the village of Jomlo Mongku just after performing the Adi war dance, called Tapu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000n5IcbKBkSQ8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000n5IcbKBkSQ8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8640.jpgPabo suspension bridge, Komsing.The suspension bridge over Brahmaputra River in Pabo located in Komsing.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LkAOJ5FSO9Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LkAOJ5FSO9Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-8534.jpgMan making dumplings in DaporijoA man making momos and fried dumplings in a kitchen in Daporijo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IG.0fGbefYYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IG.0fGbefYY/fit=1000x1000/MG-8514.jpgDonyi Polo flag and Nyishi settlement on the way to DaporijoA Donyi Polo flag near a Hill Miri (Nyishi) settlement, seen on the way leading to Daporijo. The Nyishi are the largest tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. Nyishi warriors were known to be much more aggressive than other tribes. In past history when Apatani settlements were attacked by the Nyishi, the most beautiful Apatani women were kidnapped by their warriors.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002.o68oher_Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002.o68oher_Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-8494.jpgBlacksmith in HapoliA blacksmith bending a red hot iron in Hapoli, a part of Ziro, and the headquarter of Lower Subansiri District Administration.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000V9zH6dqknlIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000V9zH6dqknlI/fit=1000x1000/MG-8332.jpgMithun sacrifice in Tajang and Bulla Lemba areaA mithun just after beeing slaughtered by axe is prepared to be cut into pieces.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FEBmVD7SscUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FEBmVD7SscU/fit=1000x1000/MG-8192.jpgMithun sacrifice in Hari villageA Mithun, also called Subu by Apatani and Nyishi people, has been slaughtered ritually in Hari village. After the animal collapsed, rice powder is put into its mouth.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000P9qoCdXHJEchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000P9qoCdXHJEc/fit=1000x1000/MG-8044.jpgApatani locals in Hari villageLocal Apatani people walking on a small mainstreet in Hari village during Murung festival.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000phDQjefIjtMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000phDQjefIjtM/fit=1000x1000/MG-8014.jpgApatani woman in Hari villageAn Apatani woman in Hari village. The tribes living in Arunashal Pradesh and the bordering state of Nagaland are rarely visited by tourists.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aUtNFDOn4_Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aUtNFDOn4_U/fit=1000x1000/MG-7884.jpgTailoress in Itanagar marketAn Indian tailoress working on a sewing machine along the market alley of Itanagar.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Dppy_7BmhOwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Dppy_7BmhOw/fit=1000x1000/MG-7979.jpgBoys in Hari villageThree curious boys looking into the camera in Hari village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006gBiSYoh4XYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006gBiSYoh4XY/fit=1000x1000/MG-7964.jpgApatani girl in Hari villageA girl leaning on a barn door frame at Hari, an Apatani village in the valley of Ziro.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000h.vtL8r_DkYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000h.vtL8r_DkY/fit=1000x1000/MG-7912.jpgTea break at PotinTea break at Potin, before continuing the exploration of Ziro Valley.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005lTF7ZNYGEkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005lTF7ZNYGEk/fit=1000x1000/MG-5641.jpgLove LocksLove locks fixed on a small bridge in Prague.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000v9sVa9GY8Tshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000v9sVa9GY8Ts/fit=1000x1000/MG-5513.jpgResting somewhere in PragueAccording to "Wikipedia" - Prague is classified as an "Alpha-" global city according to GaWC studies. Prague ranked sixth in the Tripadvisor world list of best destinations in 2016. Its rich history makes it a popular tourist destination, and the city receives more than 6.4 million international visitors annually, as of 2014. Prague is the fifth most visited European city after London, Paris, Istanbul and Rome.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000I9hcCfXjv0ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000I9hcCfXjv0g/fit=1000x1000/MG-5531.jpgJan Hus MemorialJan Hus Memorial standing in the middle of Old Town Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PQ7yPltEcWghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PQ7yPltEcWg/fit=1000x1000/MG-5603.jpgSaint Nicholas ChurchThe Saint Nicholas Church seen from the Charles Bridge is located at Lesser Town.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nSPUSPRyhwshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nSPUSPRyhws/fit=1000x1000/MG-2117.jpgView over PragueAnother cityscape view from the castle.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WXPWMK5S7rQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WXPWMK5S7rQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2095.jpgSt. Vitus CathedralFront view of St. Vitus Cathedral, the largest and most important church of the Czech Republic.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BlnWgKxszkYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BlnWgKxszkY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2108.jpgView over PragueCityscape photo taken from the castle.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xSQ_cw4p.xshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xSQ_cw4p.xs/fit=1000x1000/MG-2082.jpgPrague Castle GateMatthias Gate, the doorway to the II courtyard.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Sp_Hv7t2NHEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Sp_Hv7t2NHE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2010.jpgView over the Old Town Square from the Old Town Hall TowerThe oldest square of Prague is well-known for its historical buildings. In the middle of the Old Town Square you can see the monument of the protestant reformer Jan Huss who was burnt alive 1415 after beeing declared as a heretic by the Roman Catholic Church.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007wciVtNv3S4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007wciVtNv3S4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2008.jpgView from the Old Town Hall TowerThe Old Town Square and the Wenceslas Square are one of the most visited locations in Prague. In summer both squares are invaded by tourists. This photo was taken from the Old Town Hall Tower.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZDvBeMJoWdAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZDvBeMJoWdA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2887.jpgLac de NinoOverview over the surrounding area of "Lac de Nino"...without "Lac de Nino".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FapIgH3KMmohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FapIgH3KMmo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2870.jpgLac de NinoThe very delicate lawn is called "pozzines" and you should avoid walking on it.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000f_vi37zvihMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000f_vi37zvihM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2827.jpgForest of PoppaghiaStill walking from Poppaghia to "Lac de Nino".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LaOjqsfvdyohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LaOjqsfvdyo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2775.jpgCorteI took the photo of this old house - surrounded by swallows,- near the citadelle of Corte.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000S1V9QcuHJfIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000S1V9QcuHJfI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2759.jpgDriving from Porto-Vecchio to CorteDriving from Porto-Vecchio to Corte we realized that crossing Corsica by car would be more relaxing :-).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZzGSu56tVQ4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZzGSu56tVQ4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2728.jpgBonifacioParagliding over the old fortifications of Bonifaciohttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.P07epjuU_Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.P07epjuU_Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-2726.jpgBonifacioAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Strait of Bonifacio is the strait between Corsica and Sardinia, named after the Corsican town Bonifacio. It is about 7 miles (11 km) wide and divides the Tyrrhenian Sea from the western Mediterranean Sea. The strait is notorious among sailors for its weather, currents, shoals, and other obstacles. The most famous disaster in the Strait of Bonifacio was that of the French frigate Sémillante on Februaryy 15, 1855. The ship had left the port of Toulon the day before on its way into the Black Sea to supply the Crimean War with troops. A storm caused it to hit a reef; the ship sank and none of the 750 soldiers on board survived.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000038hWkoE0wrkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000038hWkoE0wrk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2683.jpgBonifacioPhoto of a yacht approaching the lighthouse of "Madonetta".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rTTH7DKiP6Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rTTH7DKiP6Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-2637.jpgLeaving Filitosa heading BonifacioAs we were driving from Filitosa to Bonifacio we noticed this wonderful turquoise bay.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cHUIBJ9rFGYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cHUIBJ9rFGY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2662.jpgBonifacioBonifacio is one of the most charming town of Corsica. The touristic city of Bonifacio is divided in two sections, the "vieille ville" or "ville basse" and the "haute ville".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QtxjExhsVmwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QtxjExhsVmw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2496.jpgFrom Refuge de Prati to CozzanoStill moving from "Refuge de Prati" to Cozzano. The GR20 can be a great experience if you have a good fitness base, the right equipment and if you can, sometimes, take the right decisions. In 2007 three hikers died of hypothermia and two years before a group of people, most of them suffering from hypothermia - some people wearing tennis shoes, - were evacuated by helicopter. During our trip there was just a small number of hikers walking along the famous high level route, and there was a reason for that. Before we started our trip, we were dissuaded to start the GR20 trekking because of many snow-capped areas making hiking very difficult and dangerous. Later, at the end of our first stage, some french hikers told us that they were blocked for many days in a refuge because of the severe weather. Unfortunately we had no climbing irons and no appropriated sleeping bags. So, before we started, we knew already, that our tent became an useless burden. That was very demotivating.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007uRuSlpC_eUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007uRuSlpC_eU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2480.jpgFrom Refuge de Prati to CozzanoThe GR20 doesn't require special rock-climbing skills but you need a good fitness level if you want to achieve the whole trail with an overloaded backpack on your shoulders. On the bottom right corner you can see the typical red and white waymark used on French long-distance paths (Grande Randonée). Photo taken on the trek From "Refuge de Prati" to Cozzano.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000V0.R71b9GuUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000V0.R71b9GuU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2464.jpgRefuge de PratiThe 11th stage of the GR20 ends in "Refuge de Prati". Most of the official GR20 refuges are very, very basic! After a long day you can take an icy shower.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000d2G.CKLxXEIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000d2G.CKLxXEI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2459.jpgClose to Refuge de PratiAs we were walking upwards toward "Refuge de Prati" the weather became colder. In the month of june, snow coupled by fog became our companion on an altitude below 2000 meter.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EljlMBsFj3whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EljlMBsFj3w/fit=1000x1000/MG-2440.jpgSomewhere between E'Capanelle and Refuge de PratiPicture of a Bull shooted somewhere between E'Capanelle and "Refuge de Prati".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000P729zdBR9A4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000P729zdBR9A4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8709.jpgKids in PangiKids posing in Pangi village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DlzudPhvKm8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DlzudPhvKm8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8707.jpgKids in PangiKids posing in Pangi village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000O1HZBFOiFyYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000O1HZBFOiFyY/fit=1000x1000/MG-8685.jpgBetween Komsing and KaroWalking over a suspension bridge, somewhere between Komsing and Karo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007Im00dbYLLAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007Im00dbYLLA/fit=1000x1000/MG-8663.jpgChildren posing in Komsing Village.Children posing in Komsing, an historical Minyong tribe village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000g_qEaHYoJpAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000g_qEaHYoJpA/fit=1000x1000/MG-8570.jpgWomen steaming fish at Kabu villageWomen steaming fish in Kabu village. Small fishes are put into bamboo poles and steamed over open fire.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HaT1WDcAqJUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HaT1WDcAqJU/fit=1000x1000/MG-8547.jpgFrom Daporijo to Along.A dead deer, killed by headshot by a local man, as seen along a street leading from Daporijo to Along.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uxatgYOmFy0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uxatgYOmFy0/fit=1000x1000/MG-8448.jpgAn Apatani boy in Tajang and Bulla Lemba area.Portrait of a boy posing for the camera in Tajang and Bulla Lemba area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WyHXQq33qD4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WyHXQq33qD4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8427.jpgApatani boys sitting in Hari villageTwo boys sitting on the stairs of their house in Hari village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_0tu1MzTcT8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_0tu1MzTcT8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8407.jpgWoman and daughter in Hari villageA young woman and her daughter in Hari village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000qPM78INejO8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000qPM78INejO8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8386.jpgApatani woman at Hong Village.An Apatani woman at her house, set outside the center of Hong Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ntSoSPsG7x4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ntSoSPsG7x4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8367.jpgCorn at ZiroDifferent varietes of Corn are sold in Ziro.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000b4lzpw8oOH8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000b4lzpw8oOH8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8116.jpgApatani woman in Hari villageWhen Apatani women were young, small nose plugs were insert into an incision made near the alar crease of their nose. As time went by, these plugs were replaced with larger wooden plugs.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UaDAC93CQS8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UaDAC93CQS8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8092.jpgApatani woman in Hari villageAn elder Apatani woman in Hari village. According to "Wikipedia" - Apatani ladies tend to tattoo their faces thereby spoiling their beauty. The faces of Apatani especially were tattooed in order to spoil their beauty so that males of other neighbouring communities may not take them away. In short, the Apa Tanii used tattoos, ear and nose plugs and Rutting Yarang to buttress their psychological needs to face the inhospitable environments surrounding them in early days. And indeed, it has done well in overcoming adverse environment and survives till date. Younger members of this community have stopped this traditional practice.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.pP1CFmyQTshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.pP1CFmyQTs/fit=1000x1000/MG-8069.jpgApatani women in Hari villageI gave my camera to a little boy, asking him to take some photos of the women gathered in front of us. Actually i can't remember if i took this photo, or the boy standing beside me.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WLBta0EULT0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WLBta0EULT0/fit=1000x1000/MG-2066.jpgPrague CastlePhoto of the Prague Castle, taken from the Lesser Town Square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W1M8Eb6E0v0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W1M8Eb6E0v0/fit=1000x1000/MG-2220.jpgParacas National ReserveView on Supay Beach with the Paracas desert in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XqZdiX4_MBUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XqZdiX4_MBU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0935.jpgSalinas de MarasA man carrying a big bag of salt under the midday sun.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000Z9VKHMGkVEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000Z9VKHMGkVE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0662.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuThe main gate is the only one entrance to access the Machu Picchu complex.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KCxMLE6DQGAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KCxMLE6DQGA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0890.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuIn june 2014 Peruvian archaeologists discovered a new road section which leads to the Machu Picchu complex.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mYrzufL47Kshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mYrzufL47Ks/fit=1000x1000/MG-1079.jpgBhaktapurTwo Newar men wearing the traditional colourful topi hats.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Y0I4qs4pjrAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Y0I4qs4pjrA/fit=1000x1000/MG-8743.jpgKids in PangiTwo girls playing in Pangi village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QZORIS4tGhwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QZORIS4tGhw/fit=1000x1000/MG-8750.jpgFrom Pangi to SisenWalking from Pangi to Sisen.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006_RiKUlwE7Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006_RiKUlwE7I/fit=1000x1000/MG-8809.jpgAlong Brahmaputra River, seen between Pangi and Sisen.Resting at the white-sanded beach of Siang River the name used in Arunachal Pradesh for Brahmaputra River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000007VfRTkILK4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000007VfRTkILK4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8855.jpgGirl hiding in SisenA girl hiding behind a tree while we arrive at Sisen.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000o.Au8KECmohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000o.Au8KECmo/fit=1000x1000/MG-8852.jpgOrange tree at Sisen villageA boy picking oranges while we arrived at Sisen village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H6HjGvbu2QQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H6HjGvbu2QQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-8543.jpgStudents in DaporijoStudents in their school uniforms near a market in Daporijo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002DEjR7eFa0ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002DEjR7eFa0o/fit=1000x1000/MG-7995.jpgChildren in Hari villageChildren playing in Hari village. Hari, Bulla, Tajang and Hong amongst other villages in the valley of Ziro, are the main settlements of the Apatani people.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tzcPn0z5_28https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tzcPn0z5_28/fit=1000x1000/MG-8032.jpgApatani shaman in Hari villageAn Apatani shaman performing a ceremony during Murung festival in Hari village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cvuYIiz3GqEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cvuYIiz3GqE/fit=1000x1000/MG-8122.jpgApatani man in Hari villageA man drinking a glas of rice beer during Murung festival.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SyJF6uvummkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SyJF6uvummk/fit=1000x1000/MG-8356.jpgApatani girls in Tajang and Bulla Lemba areaThe girl on the left asked me if didn't find the mithun sacrifices too cruel. I replied her that in our countries many animals are living in worse conditions and get killed in much more painful ways.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002r5BqSjHYBkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002r5BqSjHYBk/fit=1000x1000/MG-8359.jpgSpices and vegetables at Ziro marketAn Indian man selling spices and vegetables in a market in Ziro.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dLxFMXpTLvchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dLxFMXpTLvc/fit=1000x1000/MG-8360.jpgClothes at Ziro marketTwo Indian men selling colourful clothes in a market in Ziro.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005g4asJmWvbMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005g4asJmWvbM/fit=1000x1000/MG-8388.jpgApatani woman at Hong Village.An Apatani woman at her house, set outside the center of Hong Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ld.b9COA0sghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ld.b9COA0sg/fit=1000x1000/MG-8401.jpgApatani woman between Hong village and Hari villageAn Apatani woman posing while we are walking from Hong village to Hari vilage.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MFFAfA14baYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MFFAfA14baY/fit=1000x1000/MG-8589.jpgWalking to Jomlo Mongku.A young man carrying a basket full of lemons somewhere between Kabu village and Jomlo Mongku.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xfQc9rysrM8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xfQc9rysrM8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8698.jpgRainbow between Komsing and KaroBamboo hut under a rainbow, seen while walking from Komsing to Karo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008VKpcS369Bshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008VKpcS369Bs/fit=1000x1000/MG-8806.jpgSiang River, seen between Pangi and Sisen.Resting at the white-sanded beach of Siang River the name used in Arunachal Pradesh for Brahmaputra River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BN5N_26S3a8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BN5N_26S3a8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8841.jpgWalking to SisenSunrays seen on our way to Sisen village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000F6wYCuS1BRUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000F6wYCuS1BRU/fit=1000x1000/MG-8879.jpgPortrait of a woman in SisenA woman wearing a large scarve, as the temperature can cool down very quickly at night.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E3ukmtpLN5Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E3ukmtpLN5Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-9113.jpgWalking from Pongging to JeruStanding somewhere in a river between Pongging and Jeru.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nfjZ.x_lfHghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nfjZ.x_lfHg/fit=1000x1000/MG-9157.jpgGirl with red umbrella in SilliA shy girl trying to hide behind her red umbrella in Silli, a village located near Yamne River, a large tributary river of Brahmaputra River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KgZo977I3b0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KgZo977I3b0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9225.jpgMan selling spices in PasighatAn Indian man selling primarily spices in his stall in Pasighat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JtZ1fa5wS.khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JtZ1fa5wS.k/fit=1000x1000/MG-8930.jpgWalking from Sisen to PonggingOur guide Thierry, crossing a suspension "bridge" during our trek from Sisen to Pongging.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005QMIwxXRm5chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005QMIwxXRm5c/fit=1000x1000/MG-8957.jpgWalking from Sisen to PonggingBeautiful views accompany us to Pongging, our next station on this trekking.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dWupXkgGLA0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dWupXkgGLA0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9055.jpgPonggingTwo cows playing a strange game :-). Seen in the village of Pongging.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000w2qZk1D224Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000w2qZk1D224Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-9058.jpgPonggingPongging is located in the Upper Siang district, set near the Brahmaputra River and Yamne River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZTWf3yvC_N0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZTWf3yvC_N0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9059.jpgPonggingMorning scenery from a viewpoint in Pongging.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001T0aOo3NOOMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001T0aOo3NOOM/fit=1000x1000/MG-9067.jpgPonggingThree chickens sitting and annoying a sleeping pig at Pongging.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pZ_rEYs5yB0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pZ_rEYs5yB0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9094.jpgWalking from Pongging to JeruTwo women carrying baskets somewhere between Pongging and Jeru. The Upper Siang District is mainly inhabited by groups of Adi tribes and Memba people.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KnbRCK1XGaQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KnbRCK1XGaQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-9086.jpgWalking from Pongging to JeruTwo women carrying baskets somewhere between Pongging and Jeru. The Upper Siang District is mainly inhabited by groups of Adi tribes and Memba people.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PB7GkJvwJS8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PB7GkJvwJS8/fit=1000x1000/MG-9098.jpgWalking from Pongging to JeruView on a valley and its river between Pongging and Jeru, located in Upper Siang District.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bke.CfTRXM8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bke.CfTRXM8/fit=1000x1000/MG-9118.jpgWalking from Pongging to JeruLocals walking on a suspension bridge, as seen while walking from Pongging to Jeru.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tGNQmd7BR68https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tGNQmd7BR68/fit=1000x1000/MG-9177.jpgBrahmaputra River, between Silli and PasighatWe stopped our cars on the way from Silli village to Pasighat to enjoy the view on Brahmaputra River and its surrounding scenery.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003Vy8GdhMM.Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003Vy8GdhMM.I/fit=1000x1000/MG-9189.jpgMan selling clocks in PasighatThis man was primarly selling clocks in his shop located in Pasighat, the headquarter of East Siang district.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ozhZKXhwRDQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ozhZKXhwRDQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-9209.jpgMan and children sitting on a motorbike in PasighatA man sitting with his children on his motorbike along a street in Pasighat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009H5VM_szcBUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009H5VM_szcBU/fit=1000x1000/MG-9226.jpgBoys in PasighatPhoto of two boys we met in Pasighat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002qKBmWYQFxAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002qKBmWYQFxA/fit=1000x1000/MG-9627.jpgYoung elephant at Kaziranga National ParkA young elephant at the central entrance of Kazirangha National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EYzN6Tlup5Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EYzN6Tlup5A/fit=1000x1000/MG-9265.jpgLocal people in OiramghatA woman and her two children posing for the camera.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004MFQqSsPFUchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004MFQqSsPFUc/fit=1000x1000/MG-9559.jpgTraditional dance at Kaziranga National ParkDancers performing a traditional dance at the "Wild Grass Hotel" in Kazirangha.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000T_nenifM9OAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000T_nenifM9OA/fit=1000x1000/MG-9329.jpgIndian girls along the Brahmaputra riverbankWhile the ferry stopped for a few minutes i saw this girls standing at the riverbank of Brahmaputra.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TXtMoH993zEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TXtMoH993zE/fit=1000x1000/MG-9256.jpgBoat remainings at OiramghatThe remainings of an old boat overgrown by small vegetation.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kLpbeExMOgEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kLpbeExMOgE/fit=1000x1000/MG-9267.jpgIndian man in OiramghatAn Indian man standing around Oiramghat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.nW.lOymUkchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.nW.lOymUkc/fit=1000x1000/MG-9391.jpgGreat Indian one-horned Rhinoceros at Kaziranga National ParkAn Indian rhinoceros at the western part of Kaziranga National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001r1okgNic5Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001r1okgNic5Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-9491.jpgBarasingha at Kaziranga National ParkBarasingha deer at the central part of Kaziranga National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000stAaT7XNTfIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000stAaT7XNTfI/fit=1000x1000/MG-9514.jpgBarasingha at Kaziranga National ParkBarasingha deer standing between trees at the central part of Kaziranga National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XDIMO18fdFYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XDIMO18fdFY/fit=1000x1000/MG-9595.jpgGreat Indian one-horned Rhinoceros at Kaziranga National ParkGreater one-horned rhinoceros close-up, shot in the central part of Kaziranga National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000n5BjTpQ36H0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000n5BjTpQ36H0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9603.jpgGreat Indian one-horned Rhinoceros at Kaziranga National ParkTwo indian rhinoceros, a mother and her calf, photographed during an elephant ride at the central part of the Kaziranga National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000i9MKGm2uYwUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000i9MKGm2uYwU/fit=1000x1000/MG-9235.jpgCannabis leaves at OiramghatCannabis leaves around the area of Oiramghat, where we were supposed to take our boat to Kaziranga National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ta3kZUOwXJ8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ta3kZUOwXJ8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0711.jpgBanteay SreiBack again in Banteay Srei in 2012 i realized that the monkeys shown on the photo were not sitting on that place in 2005. So they were probably restored the first time i was in Banteay Srei.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LnXZPC0yOmQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LnXZPC0yOmQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0730.jpgBanteay SreiA few large sized natural paving stones pave the path to guarding lions in Banteay Samre.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jp5lFz694tEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jp5lFz694tE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0390.jpgBattambang to Siem Reap boat trip on Tonle Sap LakeSometimes, during the dry season the boat trips from Battambang to Siem Reap are not realizable because of the low water level.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LF2OgCOnuvQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LF2OgCOnuvQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0393.jpgBattambang to Siem Reap boat trip on Tonle Sap LakeAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Tonlé Sap is the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia and is an ecological hot spot that was designated as a UNESCO biosphere in 1997. The Tonlé Sap is unusual for two reasons: its flow changes direction twice a year, and the portion that forms the lake expands and shrinks dramatically with the seasons. From November to May, Cambodia's dry season, the Tonlé Sap drains into the Mekong River at Phnom Penh. However, when the year's heavy rains begin in June, the Tonlé Sap backs up to form an enormous lake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ohbc3uTvngEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ohbc3uTvngE/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7108.jpgBuddhist nun at BayonA buddhist nun kneeling before a shrine. The cambodian nuns are dressed in white instead of orange, the color worn by buddhist monks.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pu6vjbT3Inwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pu6vjbT3Inw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7101.jpgBayon FacesSmiling faces of Avalokiteshvara in Bayon. According to "Wikipedia" - The Bayon is a well-known and richly decorated Khmer temple at Angkor in Cambodia. Built in the late 12th century or early 13th century as the official state temple of the Mahayana Buddhist King Jayavarman VII, the Bayon stands at the centre of Jayavarman's capital, Angkor Thom. Following Jayavarman's death, it was modified and augmented by later Hindu and Theravada Buddhist kings in accordance with their own religious preferences.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pyavoVfp0o8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pyavoVfp0o8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0428.jpgBanteay KdeiBanteay Kdei was built in the 12th century. The Angkor temple is located 2km east of Angkor Thom.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009DKIGa4B0cghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009DKIGa4B0cg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0434.jpgTa ProhmThe area around Ta Prohm has changed a lot since my last visit in 2005. Nowadays, a wooden walkway has been installed around the ruins, taking the charm and authenticity of Ta Prohm away.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007WlBqDqzeHQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007WlBqDqzeHQ/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7159.jpgTa ProhmTa Prohm is another amazing complex which demonstrate how vegetation fights to take back this location once inhabited by more than 12500 Khmer people.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PIBDGbNaKgAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PIBDGbNaKgA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0466.jpgTa KeoTa Keo, an unfinished temple, was supposed to be the state temple of Jayavarman V. Built at the beginning of the 11th century under the reign of Jayaviravarman, the construction was stopped by his rival, Suryavarman I, as soon as he gained access to the throne.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uYrwawSKwuohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uYrwawSKwuo/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7178.jpgTa ProhmThe locations of the fascinating buddhist complex of Ta Prohm were also shown in the movie "Tomb Raider".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FJ6XG8NH3k4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FJ6XG8NH3k4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0041.jpgChong Knea floating villageThe little boy's mother was not very amused about the kid's deep affection for pythons.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VX0UPUBPAP8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VX0UPUBPAP8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0055.jpgKoh KerKoh Ker is situated about 100km north-east from Angkor. Probably because of the distance between Siem Reap and Koh Ker, the place is poorly visited by tourists. Be also aware that there are still landmines in the surrounding area of the temple site.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000f5QoyTKBAtkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000f5QoyTKBAtk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0244.jpgPhon Bontheay Yomreach villageMab,taking a shower after the rice treshing.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YqMio13SxMohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YqMio13SxMo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0263.jpgKids at Phon Bontheay Yomreach villageMab's neighborhood kids posing for the camera.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wVY.4WOehYAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wVY.4WOehYA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0442.jpgTa ProhmAccording to "Wikipedia" - The trees growing out of the ruins are perhaps the most distinctive feature of Ta Prohm, and "have prompted more writers to descriptive excess than any other feature of Angkor." Two species predominate, but sources disagree on their identification: the larger is either the silk-cotton tree (Ceiba pentandra) or thitpok Tetrameles nudiflora, and the smaller is either the strangler fig (Ficus gibbosa). or Gold Apple (Diospyros decandra). Indulging in what might be regarded as "descriptive excess," Angkor scholar Maurice Glaize observed, "On every side, in fantastic over-scale, the trunks of the silk-cotton trees soar skywards under a shadowy green canopy, their long spreading skirts trailing the ground and their endless roots coiling more like reptiles than plants."http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vtKz4bD7BWohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vtKz4bD7BWo/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7041.jpgBoy at Angkor Wat TempleCambodian boy posing at Angkor Wat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FsiWiOBmLAohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FsiWiOBmLAo/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7051.jpgApsara Dancers in Angkor WatStone-carving representing 6 Apsaras on a wall at Angkor Wat. In the Buddhist and Hindu mythology the Apsara is a divine spirit with superior knowledge in the art of dancing. The classical khmer dance is still practiced today in cambodia, but also in other asian countries like in Laos or Thailand.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SUWqR.3pG1khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SUWqR.3pG1k/fit=1000x1000/MG-0631.jpgAngkor Thom North GateBig tree roots covering the remainings of an ancient stairway, close to the north gate of Angkor Thom.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zyWVfo74Rbghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zyWVfo74Rbg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0590.jpgAngkor Wat sunriseThanks to my guide and friend, Mab, we arrived on time to the right place for taking some nice pictures of the sunrise at Angkor Wat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fPfBK4DOdcghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fPfBK4DOdcg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0638.jpgPreah KhanDuring the construction of Angkor Thom, Preah Khan was presumably the temporary residence city of Jayavarman VII.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wUcLafFvxdohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wUcLafFvxdo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0315.jpgWat Banan Temple at BattambangWat Banan is located in Battambang, at the top of a hill which can be reached by a stairway.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DIseu_u4vlYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DIseu_u4vlY/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7169.jpgTa ProhmWe found one famous man in Ta Prohm, the man who once was on the cover of the "Lonely Planet" guidebook. Unfortunatelly he was very tired.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006OmKGw2yrwYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006OmKGw2yrwY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0520.jpgBayon templeLocated at the centre of Angkor Thom, stands Bayon, a famous and the last builded state temple of Angkor.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aJD22Y1n53Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aJD22Y1n53U/fit=1000x1000/MG-0566.jpgAngkor Wat sunriseIn 2005 we missed the sunrise at Angkor Wat because the weather was very cloudy. Anyway, if the weather conditions would have been better we would have been standing on the wrong place, far away from the small lake which casts the mirror image of Angkor Wat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000050NkYh_RZpYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000050NkYh_RZpY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0785.jpgBetween Kompong Phluk and Siem Reap.Kids posing for the camera, somewhere between Kompong Phluk and Siem Reap.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iEM3Oy3MXXwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iEM3Oy3MXXw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0800.jpgLandscape seen from Phnom KulenLandscape scene taken on the way up to Phnom Kulen.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XbvDJqe0xOwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XbvDJqe0xOw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0832.jpgPool at the Phnom Kulen areaMonks sitting around a pool in Phnom Kulen which sabulous ground is permanently circulated due to an underground spring.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HoU4dpC5vqUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HoU4dpC5vqU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0887.jpgBeng MealeaI hired this friendly woman as my guide in Beng Mealea. Despite the fact that my guide lost a leg after stepping on a landmine, when she was five years old, she was climbing the ruine's stones faster than me.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NE.ebaYmp1Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NE.ebaYmp1I/fit=1000x1000/MG-0896.jpgBeng MealeaYou feel a little bit like Indiana Jones when you are exploring the Beng Mealea area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CK9hei.pkn4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CK9hei.pkn4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0920.jpgBonn Kathen festivalYoung monk during the Bonn Kathen festival along a street leading to the Chong Khneas floating village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wVxjYZeLf70https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wVxjYZeLf70/fit=1000x1000/MG-0908.jpgFishermen between Siem Reap and Beng MealeaA group of young men fishing somewhere between the temple ruins of Beng Mealea and Siem Reap.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Db9GKBl6rgMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Db9GKBl6rgM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0089.jpgMrauk UA man leading his cows on a small path in the middle of the Mrauk U temple complex.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004UKgVncfNM0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004UKgVncfNM0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0252.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageLocals, mainly young ladies, during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mLgOJ3yMv9ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mLgOJ3yMv9o/fit=1000x1000/MG-0246.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageI was invited to Graw Raw Ma Ni by a nice young man called Kyaw Htai during Shinbyu ceremony. The village was located about 3 hours by boat somewhere along the Kaladan River. Unfortunately i have no idea about the exactly location, and i even don't know if Graw Raw Ma Ni is written correctly.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JuSPUEqU0Kshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JuSPUEqU0Ks/fit=1000x1000/MG-0332.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageMeal gathering during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000L6oHNc6X6DAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000L6oHNc6X6DA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0328.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageMeal gathering during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XoX0lIvqY2Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XoX0lIvqY2U/fit=1000x1000/MG-0356.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageLocals from a neighbour village of Graw Raw Ma Ni, mainly young ladies, during Shinbyu ceremony.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008p3tmrj2.ochttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008p3tmrj2.oc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1935.jpgYoung lady sitting in a boat on Lemro RiverA girl crossing Lemro River somewhere between the Chin villages of Mada Kin and Sain Sai Kyaw with her slow boat just before sunset.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CLKWM29PDdMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CLKWM29PDdM/fit=1000x1000/MG-1992.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverAn elderly tattooed Chin woman i met in a Chin village along Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000p4RzlsHxvhwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000p4RzlsHxvhw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1686.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageNovice Buddhist monk getting dressed after the hair shaving ceremony.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pSk37B5LBSshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pSk37B5LBSs/fit=1000x1000/MG-1967.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Kukis, also known as the Chin and sometimes as the Zomi, and in the state of Mizoram Mizo are a number of related Tibeto-Burman tribal peoples spread throughout the northeastern states of India, northwestern Burma, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh. In Northeast India, they are present in all states except Arunachal Pradesh. This dispersal across international borders is mainly attributed to the British colonial policy.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iKkejYYKgHshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iKkejYYKgHs/fit=1000x1000/MG-1963.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverMorning scene in Sain Sai Kyaw, a Chin Village along Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XfBrI8SwLZwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XfBrI8SwLZw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1694.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageYoung novice Buddhist monk getting dressed after the hair shaving ceremony.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H6oXD5UR4iwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H6oXD5UR4iw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0291.jpgGraw Raw Ma Ni VillageA young lady with tanaka makeup during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CxBQeDOcMVchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CxBQeDOcMVc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0289.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageA boy with tanaka paste applied on his face enjoying the Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village with his family.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000c._yAvU5zCohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000c._yAvU5zCo/fit=1000x1000/MG-9260.jpgOld ship at OiramghatAn old ship left high and dry in Oiramghat, at the opposit area where the ferry and boats dock.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009QjigVDoNG4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009QjigVDoNG4/fit=1000x1000/MG-9257.jpgCracked earth in OiramghatSmall plants on cracked earth.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.RraUTIBi18https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.RraUTIBi18/fit=1000x1000/MG-9236.jpgOiramghat and Brahmaputra RiverWhile we were waiting for our ferry, barbed-wire bales were unloaded from another boat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xxVeUndFfichttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xxVeUndFfic/fit=1000x1000/MG-9239.jpgOiramghat and Brahmaputra RiverTwo men unloading a barb-wire bale at Oiramghat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GiHyPe81jjchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GiHyPe81jjc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0322.jpgGraw Raw Ma Ni VillageThree young men i met before breakfast time.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000018aZ5DyCRD4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000018aZ5DyCRD4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2315.jpgLinthar Village in NgapaliA local working on his house in Linthar Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000G5Ng3DqJu70https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000G5Ng3DqJu70/fit=1000x1000/MG-2323.jpgLinthar Village in NgapaliI took a break for breakfast at Linthar, a village set just north from the touristic area along the beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002UCKgi74Wqohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002UCKgi74Wqo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2658.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGirls cleaning nets before they will be used again for drying fish.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tlV0MStpgKUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tlV0MStpgKU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2682.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachFisherman leaving his boat in the morning after night fishing.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000078r.TYSntQohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000078r.TYSntQo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2347.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachTwo girls posing at Ngapali beach outside Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000014.gSuTehqMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000014.gSuTehqM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2393.jpgMermaid at Ngapali BeachThe famous mermaid statue at Ngapali beach is set on a large rock and can easily bee seen while walking along the beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000L60n.4yOq1Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000L60n.4yOq1Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-2681.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachWomen talking after the fresh fish sales at Ngapali Beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fVHS0juzTCMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fVHS0juzTCM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2477.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachThe market street in Gyeiktaw village where fresh fruits and vegetables were sold every morning.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UhR64s7_ve8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UhR64s7_ve8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2512.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachA girl washing the typical blue fishernet which is used to dry fishes on the beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002y.tt1H1ukMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002y.tt1H1ukM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2531.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachTwo girls posing on a net used for drying fish on the beach of Ngapali.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KJWKPdGKNPchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KJWKPdGKNPc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2015.jpgAung Zan Tour GuideThe guide i met in Mrauk U, Mister Aung Zan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Qo7hkuuiJWYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Qo7hkuuiJWY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2042.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverMiss Ma Boar and children from her family posing in her Chin village located near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xKE7W4UDzOkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xKE7W4UDzOk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2096.jpgMrauk UA Buddhist monk near the Mrauk U temple complex. Red or maroon robes are worn by the monks in Myanmar. The robes became famous when the monks start protests against the government in 2007. According to "Wikipedia" - The phrase "Saffron Revolution" connects the protests against Myanmar's military dictatorship to the saffron-colored robes widely associated with Buddhist monks, who were at the forefront of the demonstrations. However, this nomenclature is misleading as the majority of monks in Burma wear maroon, not saffron-colored robes. While similar phrases had been used previously to describe the process of gradual or peaceful revolution in other nations, this seems to be the first time it has been associated with a particular protest as it is unfolding, and the international press seized upon it in reporting on the Burmese protests.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KwQBbnWuDqchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KwQBbnWuDqc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2116.jpgMrauk UGirls with full aluminium water pots leaving the water place near the main temple complex in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003U9tgtmxZ5shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003U9tgtmxZ5s/fit=1000x1000/MG-2127.jpgGirl in Mrauk UPortrait of a girl living in a small settlement near discovery hill in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Hu0U_dJT9O8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Hu0U_dJT9O8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2165.jpgFrom Mrauk U to KyauktawWomen selling vegetables at a market seen on the way from Mrauk U to Kyauktaw.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Mnfqu8w6wNkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Mnfqu8w6wNk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2171.jpgFrom Mrauk U to KyauktawA woman and her daughter selling vegetables at a market seen on the way from Mrauk U to Kyauktaw.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pugws.H3s9shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pugws.H3s9s/fit=1000x1000/MG-2271.jpgOn Kaladan River between Mrauk U to SittweA woman selling icecreams on a small harbour located somewhere between Mrauk U and Sittwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000my6DEhXRR_8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000my6DEhXRR_8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2274.jpgOn Kaladan River between Mrauk U to SittweA woman selling icecreams on a small harbour located somewhere between Mrauk U and Sittwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aKgbV_Udyq4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aKgbV_Udyq4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2625.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachA motorcycle three wheeler in Gyeiktaw village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000enziFb5UU4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000enziFb5UU4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2648.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachAccording to "Wikipedia" - Ngapali Beach is a beach located 7 kilometres (4 mi) from the town of Thandwe (Sandoway), in Rakhine State, Myanmar. It is the most famous beach in Myanmar and is a popular tourist destination. Myanmar's political climate means that Ngapali is not as well publicized as other good beaches of Southeast Asia. The beach stretches for 3 km (2 mi) and overlooks the Indian Ocean. The name "Ngapali", has no meaning in Burmese, but comes from the Italian "Napoli" (the city of Naples).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000Bdp3RtviI4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000Bdp3RtviI4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2768.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachYoung man posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GyPDH7eepWkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GyPDH7eepWk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2796.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachTwo girls posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000g0spA5I4OIshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000g0spA5I4OIs/fit=1000x1000/MG-6591.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweFurthermore arakanrivers.net describes that - "The large majority of Arakan State’s population lives in underdeveloped rural areas with minimal access to imported foods or modern infrastructure. Therefore, they rely heavily on their local rivers for survival. Rivers are used daily for fishing and transport, and most of Arakan State’s rice in grown and harvested along the banks of its rivers, of which the Kaladan is the largest. In many areas, rivers are also used for washing, cooking and even drinking water."http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.aClb1LyIvchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.aClb1LyIvc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2805.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachYoung ladies and their babys having fun in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bTfHF6cK0.Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bTfHF6cK0.E/fit=1000x1000/MG-6006.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Sittwe to Mrauk UOn our arrival in Sittwe a guy working for the burmese government told us to take the ferry to Mrauk U for 4 US Dollar. "Very cheap"... and we would have the opportunity to talk to a lot of local people. In our opinion we decided not to give our money to the government representant. So we made an arrangement with a group of fishermen. For 90 US Dollar they would drive us to Mrauk U, stay there for three days, and drive us back to Sittwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lhXOGO70MUwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lhXOGO70MUw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6084.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Sittwe to Mrauk UThe Kaladan river pass through the Rakhine State of Myanmar and the Mizoram State of India. In a probable future the river will unfortunately become an important trade route between foreign countries like India, China and Myanmar.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rCrg2jWFiNMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rCrg2jWFiNM/fit=1000x1000/MG-6097.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Sittwe to Mrauk UDuring our cruise to Mrauk U we were waved, and we waved back to the people living along the river. As we arrived at the boat peer we were driven by cycle rickshaws to our guesthouse, and one hour later to a restaurant. After our dinner we decided to go back by feet. Unfortunately we didn't knew where we were exactly. So we asked a drunken military guy and after some time or other we arrived in our guesthouse in the middle of the night.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.LTo_OCSXtchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.LTo_OCSXtc/fit=1000x1000/MG-6387.jpgMrauk UTwo groups of children were enclosed by the local people, cheering and encouraging the boys, while they were trying to catch an oil-smeared coconut.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nzAhRMCHVfchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nzAhRMCHVfc/fit=1000x1000/MG-6392.jpgMrauk UActually, the game is very simple: The Kids are aligned behind a rope which defines the border of the play area. The oiled coconut is put on the opposit of the playfield. As soon as the referee gives the sign, all the players try to be the first to catch the slippery coconut with the purpose to bring it back from which they started.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Gwqm6uE6yAIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Gwqm6uE6yAI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6139.jpgMrauk UThe small Andaw Thein temple complex, located near the Shittaung Pagoda in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uN232.KVQA4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uN232.KVQA4/fit=1000x1000/MG-6145.jpgMrauk UA two wheeled cart driving on the road leading to the Koe-thaung Temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000eml7orwfzxQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000eml7orwfzxQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-6151.jpgMrauk USeveral small statues are aligned along the remainder of an outer corridor.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yoj5m7JgxPghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yoj5m7JgxPg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6154.jpgMrauk UA row of statues placed along an outside corridor leading to a small entrance of Kothaung temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rNCs2DqcEgghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rNCs2DqcEgg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6581.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweIt was a pretty cold morning, but i was happy for the next photo shootings to come.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WHwv7iZyTMEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WHwv7iZyTME/fit=1000x1000/MG-6172.jpgMrauk UThe Kothaung temple was built in 1553. Also known as the "Shrine of 90000 images" which means "Kothaung", all the images are represented by buddha reliefs, chiseled in ancient times in the sandstone walls of the temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yCdb_jPu_bwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yCdb_jPu_bw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6173.jpgMrauk UTwo girls hanging around in the temple area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iwhL9vt0nwshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iwhL9vt0nws/fit=1000x1000/MG-6596.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweTwo women walking along the river, carrying bamboo or rattan baskets.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000e_IGsxxLo6chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000e_IGsxxLo6c/fit=1000x1000/MG-6594.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweIn 2013 while the United States of America and the Europe Union have suspended most of the sanctions against Myanmar, it is to be feared that India and China will no more been the only ones who will soak up the natural ressources of Myanmar.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dffNRw5lTbghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dffNRw5lTbg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2737.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachStanding on a big rock along Ngapali beach with my hosts from Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RpDvN9HAIsshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RpDvN9HAIss/fit=1000x1000/MG-6622.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweMangroves are very important for the environmental benefits, but they are also essential for the local people. According to arakanrivers.net - "environmental analysts have predicted that both of the new oil and gas pipelines, and the river dredging for the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport project will cause further destruction to Arakan State’s mangroves. This will directly cause the people of Arakan State to become more vulnerable to food insecurity and the effects of natural events such as storm surges."http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xw4pcVLM3BUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xw4pcVLM3BU/fit=1000x1000/MG-6686.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweAfter a couple of hours we arrived at Sittwe, the capital of the Rakhine State.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002oq3QepONz8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002oq3QepONz8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5010.jpgInle LakeA man prepares a piece of iron to be forged.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006J5q0lSsvJ0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006J5q0lSsvJ0/fit=1000x1000/MG-6691.jpgSittwe harbourSittwe was a desolate place at the time we visited it. But it was interesting to see all the people assembled in the harbour, unloading boxes and baskets from their boats.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007Z81Q00f2xshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007Z81Q00f2xs/fit=1000x1000/MG-6695.jpgSittwe harbourMany huts are just standing few meters from the waterfront.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000z7xCmxjEbIMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000z7xCmxjEbIM/fit=1000x1000/MG-6697.jpgSittwe harbourAn impressive long footbridge on which the passengers can descend to land and unload their goods.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TKQ4FY1b280https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TKQ4FY1b280/fit=1000x1000/MG-5011.jpgInle LakeWhile we entered the blacksmith house, there were four men swinging their hammer at the same time to forge a blade.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000031zMGkhhDykhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000031zMGkhhDyk/fit=1000x1000/MG-6714.jpgSittweIn the afternoon, we walked to a place called the "point" where most of the people come to relax. There is a nice restaurant there where you can also drink a beer ... or two.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000J13GxYsnTsMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000J13GxYsnTsM/fit=1000x1000/MG-6721.jpgSittweOn our long way back to our guesthouse we saw a lot of nice people giving us a lot of smiles as everywhere in Burma. The next day we had a flight to Chaungtha Beach to relax for two days before we have to left Myanmar.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Tmwua1E79Gchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Tmwua1E79Gc/fit=1000x1000/MG-6689.jpgSittwe harbourSittwe was a desolate place at the time we visited it. But it was interesting to see all the people assembled in the harbour, unloading boxes and baskets from their boats.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000awJk.iiU6JMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000awJk.iiU6JM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5066.jpgInle LakeA mother and her child in front of the Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, one of the holiest site in Burma in which festivities are held for 18 days between september and october. The famous Pagoda festival houses five Buddha images, which are unrecognizable nowadays because of the golden leafs covering thickness. So today, nobody can precisely say what the statues represent exactly. It's reported that the five figures were created in the Pagan Dynasty during the reign of King Alaungsithu who died in 1167. During the festival four of the statues are carried on a royal barge, then they will navigate to 14 villages around the lake. The fifth Buddha image will remain into the Pagoda.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000LsfyRier2Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000LsfyRier2I/fit=1000x1000/MG-6061.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Sittwe to Mrauk UThe Kaladan river is the primary means of transport for the locals and you have to use it too when you want to get to Mrauk U. The boat starts in Sittwe and arrives at the harbor of Mrauk U a couple of hours later.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WzndvrXMC9Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WzndvrXMC9E/fit=1000x1000/MG-6122.jpgMyanmarA street scene, early in the morning, between our Guesthouse and the small harbor of Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wXDmXzd8Spchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wXDmXzd8Spc/fit=1000x1000/MG-6153.jpgMrauk USeveral small statues are aligned along the remainder of an outer corridor.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gq.4tw77HDghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gq.4tw77HDg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6155.jpgMrauk UAnother series of statues placed along an outside corridor leading to the visible small entrance of Kothaung temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JQ5s_MXEFNghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JQ5s_MXEFNg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6337.jpgMrauk UWe passed a small market on our way back to our guesthouse in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H1pBR7zOsAIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H1pBR7zOsAI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6382.jpgMrauk UDuring a hot afternoon we noticed that there was a gathering near the harbour.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008Nf7BPT1sBohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008Nf7BPT1sBo/fit=1000x1000/MG-6654.jpgSlow boat ride on Kaladan River from Mrauk U to SittweA young man fishing in the Kaladan river on a sunny morning.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aOWTL.2rPCQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aOWTL.2rPCQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0287.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageMeal gathering during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000f3RX40dGT4Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000f3RX40dGT4E/fit=1000x1000/MG-0326.jpgShinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni VillageMeal gathering during Shinbyu ceremony in Graw Raw Ma Ni Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000a.PXAGTm27Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000a.PXAGTm27Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-1771.jpgBarber in Pain Ming VillageA barber shop in Pain Ming Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UnndVNNfMuEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UnndVNNfMuE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1778.jpgMarket in Pain MingWomen selling betel leaves at a market in Pain Ming.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sI7jSlZFM8Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sI7jSlZFM8Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-1964.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverA Chin girl sitting near a fireplace in Sain Sai Kyaw Village early in the morning.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KoDBKYTQqGwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KoDBKYTQqGw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1972.jpgChin village near Lemro RiverPortrait of a Chin boy taken in a village near Lemro River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tobPqw40OQ0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tobPqw40OQ0/fit=1000x1000/MG-2089.jpgMrauk UGirls getting water from a water reservoir in Mrauk U.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000eJttdoA8jewhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000eJttdoA8jew/fit=1000x1000/MG-2166.jpgFrom Mrauk U to KyauktawLittle girl selling potatoes with her mother at a market seen on the way from Mrauk U to Kyauktaw.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008uI4QU.D6T8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008uI4QU.D6T8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2190.jpgGolden Buddha statueWe took a break near a golden Buddha statue somewhere between Paik Thei and Kyauktaw. According "Wikipedia" - Kyauktaw is a town in the north Rakhine State of westernmost part of Myanmar. The famous Mahamuni Buddha Image was situated near Kyauktaw, in the ruins of the old city of Dhanyawadi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YjXCDwJMOd4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YjXCDwJMOd4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2324.jpgLinthar Village in NgapaliA family driving on the mainstreet of Ngapali somewhere near Linthar Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000B.bH2gE85S4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000B.bH2gE85S4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2748.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGirls posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000r2lxFxo6qG8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000r2lxFxo6qG8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2482.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachMarket scenery in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ODUUMWhxuHUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ODUUMWhxuHU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2528.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGroup photo from fisherwomen at Ngapali beach, taken outside Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SMTZDPFav4Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SMTZDPFav4I/fit=1000x1000/MG-2585.jpgNgapali BeachFishermen are unloading mixed small fishes from their boat just before dusk.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rQIX4yS1iaUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rQIX4yS1iaU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2700.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachAt the market in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LHoQPvE.QjUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LHoQPvE.QjU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2709.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachTwo girls from Gieiktaw Village cleaning a net before it will be used again for drying fish.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EjD38.wcHREhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EjD38.wcHRE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2719.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachA girl cleaning a fishing net at Ngapali Beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wq91QvAA9Dchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wq91QvAA9Dc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2738.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachConnecting bridge between the beach at Gyeiktaw and a small golden Pagoda set on a rock.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004fujMWoBhKIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004fujMWoBhKI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2743.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachTwo girls posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002FW1hzcTR6whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002FW1hzcTR6w/fit=1000x1000/MG-2755.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachGirls posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000flbrVwwYmf4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000flbrVwwYmf4/fit=1000x1000/MG-2790.jpgGyeiktaw Village near Ngapali BeachTwo girls posing in Gyeiktaw Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001Xo3gS983l8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001Xo3gS983l8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5039.jpgInle LakeInle lake is the second largest lake in Myanmar with an approximately north-south expansion of 22km and a maximal east-west expansion of 10km.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006O6S7zi9lAEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006O6S7zi9lAE/fit=1000x1000/MG-4899.jpgInle LakeA fisherman using the one leg-rowing technique on Inle lake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MHcNxbpWpDQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MHcNxbpWpDQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-4882.jpgInle LakeAfter spending one night in Yangon, we started our trip to the Inle Lake region. The best known village where you can hire a boat driver to the Inle Lake is Nyaung Shwe. The majority of the tourists come here for starting boat tours. Most of the boats gliding on the Inle Lake are fisher boats.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001.V1XH7mGn0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001.V1XH7mGn0/fit=1000x1000/MG-7102.jpgPhaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in NyaungshweAccording to "Wikipedia" - Annually, during the Burmese month of Thadingyut (from September to October), an 18-day pagoda festival is held, during which four of the Buddha images are placed on a replica of a royal barge designed as a hintha bird and taken throughout Inlay Lake. One image always remains at the temple. The elaborately decorated barge is towed by several boats of leg-rowers rowing in unison, and other accompanying boats, making an impressive procession on the water. The barge is towed from village to village along the shores of the lake in clockwise fashion, and the four images reside at the main monastery in each village for the night.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000g8H5_Thmsb8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000g8H5_Thmsb8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5247.jpgNyaungshweWhile we were walking on a small path leading to the centre of Nyaung Shwe, we noticed a group of children playing close to a man who was teaching his son how to ride a bicycle.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EMh9nbJsb5chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EMh9nbJsb5c/fit=1000x1000/MG-7160.jpgKyauk Phyu Gyi Buddha ImageKyauk Phyu Gyi Buddha Image.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iScIRv1uzsAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iScIRv1uzsA/fit=1000x1000/MG-7058.jpgAnimal MarketAnimal Market outside Nyaungshwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IEKX5rrxN1khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IEKX5rrxN1k/fit=1000x1000/MG-5286.jpgLunar eclipse while hiking in the Shan HillsOur guide was happy as we told him that we would probably see an annular eclipse on that day. Unfortunately we had just one sunglass, so it was very difficult to distinguish the moon, especially for our guide, who had the strong desire to become blind :-); he was trying to look straight at the sun with unprotected eyes all the time, despite the fact that we told him not to do it without a sunglass. The scenery took place near a monastery and we were only five people - including two monks, to enjoy the show.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RxEizTy.zqohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RxEizTy.zqo/fit=1000x1000/MG-5273.jpgHiking in the Shan HillsMany kids were observing us as we were ascending the path up to the next Shan hill village. We stopped near a house to refresh ourselves while our guide was buying a huge papaya from a woman, which she cut into small pieces for us.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lbfwDOP44oEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lbfwDOP44oE/fit=1000x1000/MG-5272.jpgHiking in the Shan HillsAfter spending a few days in Nyaung Shwe we decided to trek up to the Shan Hill villages for two or three days. On our first day we met a lot of friendly people and we were very motivated on the way up to the top of the Hill... which we never reached ...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003Iz2E3DaR.Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003Iz2E3DaR.I/fit=1000x1000/MG-5287.jpgHiking in the Shan HillsAfter our funny guide recovered from partial blindness, we continued our trekking.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ndkp3x_0WwEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ndkp3x_0WwE/fit=1000x1000/MG-5288.jpgHiking in the Shan HillsA few men are erecting a wooden fence around one of many houses, scattered over green hills in the countryside.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000madycsaaHHYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000madycsaaHHY/fit=1000x1000/MG-4948.jpgInle LakeA fisherman using a traditional cone-shaped fishing basket. Most of the Burmese people living around Inle Lake are "Intha" people, which means "sons of the lake" people. There are about 200 villages spread around the lake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uN7MlfXJjvQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uN7MlfXJjvQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-4956.jpgInle LakeOriginally and long time ago, the Intha people were an ethnic group living in Dawei, a city located in south Myanmar, before they settled down in the Inle Lake region. The Intha speak quite the same archaic burmese dialect used in Dawei.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ml16HCZxSiMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ml16HCZxSiM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5004.jpgInle LakeMost of all the essential items required in live are produced by the locals like this blacksmith.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005Xmea8jZK8Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005Xmea8jZK8M/fit=1000x1000/MG-5029.jpgInle LakeAnother naturally product of Burma is the silk obtained by the lotus plant. The fibers are spun later to silk.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bfGCvbZDgrIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bfGCvbZDgrI/fit=1000x1000/MG-5047.jpgInle LakeThe houses built at Inle and its surroundings are usually constructed with wood. In the water, the floating village houses are built on stilts. Bamboo is one of the main components of these buildings, as also the scaffolding around the skeletal construction as it is shown on the photo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000R45uKNTsAIUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000R45uKNTsAIU/fit=1000x1000/MG-5059.jpgInle LakeGulls resting beside our boat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000025ereE5kzpshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000025ereE5kzps/fit=1000x1000/MG-5115.jpgInle LakeOn our way back to Nyaung Shwe we saw many Intha men beating a long stick on the water surface to frighten the fishes away into a net.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Hi8_l1BLKQ8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Hi8_l1BLKQ8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5179.jpgNyaungshweOur friend, Moe Thu and his two children in front of the Nyaung Shwe primary school. On that day diplomas and prizes were distributed to the best students.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000flE.YWRybPwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000flE.YWRybPw/fit=1000x1000/MG-5185.jpgNyaungshweTwo young monks walking on a street of Nyaung Shwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Dl3yB06SLhEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Dl3yB06SLhE/fit=1000x1000/MG-5253.jpgNyaungshweMany people who live in houses on stilts - usually set in the middle of Inle Lake, are afraid to send their children to Nyaung Shwe when they reach the entrance age of five, because they could drown in the deep water area that surrounds their habitation on their way to school. So, a lot of children start the primary school very late, as soon as they are able to swim freely.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XuBa0fqRomIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XuBa0fqRomI/fit=1000x1000/MG-5291.jpgHiking in the Shan HillsA woman pouring water on a rice field.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PnfSIzImjWohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PnfSIzImjWo/fit=1000x1000/MG-5306.jpgHiking in the Shan HillsA boy was starring at us as we passed his hut. Unfortunately i don't remember the name of the village. At that moment we were in hurry, so we just stopped there to buy some water and cookies. As we arrived to the next village, one hour after sunset, we noticed that there was nobody in the hut where we were supposed to sleep. Fortunately we were given hospitality in another hut occupied by many neighbours and the family themself. After being introduced, our hosts and their friends made fun about us while we took a cold shower at the washing area at night. One hour later our guide became sick. I gave him some medication and he sent them down the throat with an entire bottle of whisky.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008AByRbJZj98https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008AByRbJZj98/fit=1000x1000/MG-5318.jpgHiking in the Shan HillsThe next day we noticed that our guide was very sick. He was vomiting every five minutes. At that point we were asking ourselves if we should rest one more day in the village so that he could recover or stop the trekking and go back. Our guide refused, thinking he would get well in a couple of hours. That was a clear case of delirium :-). I felt very sorry for him. But we had a nice morning anyway.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Oc.HIJ4C4GUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Oc.HIJ4C4GU/fit=1000x1000/MG-5336.jpgNyaungshweA nice burmese couple stopped their car in front of us as we were walking back to the village. One minute later they took us to the next local restaurant. Finally we made it.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RQO7M54vANghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RQO7M54vANg/fit=1000x1000/MG-5363.jpgNyaungshweThree boys enjoying their walk on a main street in Nyaung Shwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VaWhGLNvtEchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VaWhGLNvtEc/fit=1000x1000/MG-5373.jpgNyaungshweChildren playing in the evening time.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wfodpI1Eq7Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wfodpI1Eq7U/fit=1000x1000/MG-5397.jpgU Bein Bridge in AmarapuraWith 1.2km, the U Bein Bridge is said to be the longest teak bridge in the world.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zoZinrb71hghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zoZinrb71hg/fit=1000x1000/MG-5446.jpgU Bein Bridge in AmarapuraTwo monks crossing the bridge while a magnificient sunset atmosphere surrounds the whole area. The best time for visiting the U Bein Bridge is early in the morning or late in the evening.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000076wH4dmf1vkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000076wH4dmf1vk/fit=1000x1000/MG-7115.jpgPhaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in NyaungshweFood offering for monks during Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in Nyaungshwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VVwJaZJAcQshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VVwJaZJAcQs/fit=1000x1000/MG-7128.jpgPhaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in NyaungshwePhaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in Nyaungshwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000t85rISpw5oYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000t85rISpw5oY/fit=1000x1000/MG-7130.jpgPhaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in NyaungshwePhaung Daw Oo Pagoda Festival in Nyaungshwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ua8CgMOrxB0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ua8CgMOrxB0/fit=1000x1000/MG-7141.jpgGirl and sister near NyaungshweA girl and her young sister, somewhere outside Nyaungshwe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BAbeTpzTJJMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BAbeTpzTJJM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5384.jpgAmarapuraThe tree set opposite to the U Bein Bridge is probably the most photographed tree in the region.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bn8SPSGfBlIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bn8SPSGfBlI/fit=1000x1000/MG-5455.jpgOn the way to Pyin U LwinA street scene on our way to Pyin U Lwin.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GClHzxEsqDshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GClHzxEsqDs/fit=1000x1000/MG-5211.jpgNyaungshweWelcome to the wild east :-)http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QU6kbaEaLtAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QU6kbaEaLtA/fit=1000x1000/MG-5510.jpgTrain ride from Hsipaw to MandalayAs soon as the train left the station we were annoyed by a drunken military officer who walked up and down the train aisle, harrassing passengers, and asking us constantly to show him our passports. Looking back, i'm surprised that nobody didn't throw him out of the trains window.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vGpN0b3dxL0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vGpN0b3dxL0/fit=1000x1000/MG-5534.jpgMandalayA road scene in Mandalay.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000eKfdaKxWsm4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000eKfdaKxWsm4/fit=1000x1000/MG-5757.jpgBaganThe hot air balloon flight over Bagan is another well-known highlight in Burma. Here you can see the last preparations before the take off.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DHCXjUrZ8xwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DHCXjUrZ8xw/fit=1000x1000/MG-5659.jpgBaganSome of the residents who were forced by the government to settled down in "New Bagan" declare today, that life is better in New Bagan, because they have more water or electricity. But their are also locals affirming the contrary. Some Pro-Burma associations are still proclaiming that a global tourism boycott would be the best for the burmese population. I don't share this opinion. While we were travelling in Burma, none of the residents asked us to leave their country, and we talked to a lot of locals, most of them poor people. Unfortunately these associations don't make a difference between organized tourist groups - most of them will certainly support the military junta by using their facilities,- and individual tourists. In an interview conducted by SPIEGEL correspondent Thilo Thielke in 2010, concerning the tourism boycott, Aung San Suu Kyi, Burma's opposition leader declared: "I was informed that the European Union has debated this issue. It has spoken out against group tours where Burmese government facilities are used. It endorses individual trips, however, which could benefit private companies. I haven't had an opportunity to speak with the European Union about this. But it is essential that people see what is actually happening in this country." If you intend to travel to Burma, try to support the local people while staying in their accomodations, buying their food or using the services they can provide you, also if those facilities don't meet european standards. The simple truth is that if you don't like basic family run Guesthouses; if you can only sleep in a 4 star hotel, you will certainly have to take a government run hotel. In this case you should reconsider your travel plans and go for another destination. There is a lot to see everywhere in the world ;-)http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000eQAPEg4MesMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000eQAPEg4MesM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5776.jpgBaganOne of the first pictures after the take off.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tFp_2s3N63ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tFp_2s3N63g/fit=1000x1000/MG-5727.jpgBaganTwo funny girls heavily made up with Tanaka, a paste made from the root of the Tanaka tree, which is used as sun protection. It is also well-known for its moisture benefits.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000edUJKmgllvohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000edUJKmgllvo/fit=1000x1000/MG-5730.jpgBaganOne of many statues placed at the site of Bagan. This one is probably representing a dog.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001Xtg.E4O6j0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001Xtg.E4O6j0/fit=1000x1000/MG-6737.jpgChaungtha BeachChaungtha beach was our last destination point in Myanmar. We enjoyed the relaxing part, and to our amazement, their were practically no tourists on the beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LmzlU.Q40Hghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LmzlU.Q40Hg/fit=1000x1000/MG-4810.jpgShwedagon Pagoda in YangonThe Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon's shining stupa, is the most famous pagoda in the world. According to "Wikipedia" - The base or plinth of the stupa is made of bricks covered with gold plates. Above the base are terraces (pyissayan) that only monks and men can access. Next is the bell-shaped part (khaung laung bon) of the stupa. Above that is the turban (baung yit), then the inverted almsbowl (thabeik), inverted and upright lotus petals (kya hmauk kya hlan), the banana bud (nga pyaw bu) and then the crown. The crown or umbrella (hti) is tipped with 5,448 diamonds and 2,317 rubies. The very top, the diamond bud (sein bu) is tipped with a 76 carat (15 g) diamond. The Gold seen on the stupa is made of genuine gold plates, covering the brick structure attached by traditional rivets. Myanmar people all over the country, as well as monarchs in its history, have donated gold to the pagoda to maintain it. It was started in the 15th century by the Mon Queen Shin Sawbu who gave her weight in gold and continues to this day.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009Sk8TvptL90https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009Sk8TvptL90/fit=1000x1000/MG-5494.jpgNuns walking in HsipawA group of Buddhist nuns walking in a street of Hsipaw, in the northern Shan State. As the monks, they also shave their heads. I liked their straw hats and how the sunlight shines through their pink robes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006uMLtbABBd8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006uMLtbABBd8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5509.jpgTrain ride from Hsipaw to MandalayIn Hsipaw we decided to take the train to Mandalay, although we knew that the trip would take about 14 hours.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fryP7mMYeRshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fryP7mMYeRs/fit=1000x1000/MG-5542.jpgMandalayUnfortunately we just stayed two days in Mandalay, convinced that there was absolutely nothing to do in this city, except visiting markets and the gold-leaf workshops. Later, i heard about interesting places to visit which were not necessarily mentioned in our books.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000s2md4Uqn8G4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000s2md4Uqn8G4/fit=1000x1000/MG-5609.jpgBaganOne of the most famous sightseeing place in Burma is the temple complex in Bagan, covering an area of about 41 square kilometers, including over 2000 temples, pagodas and other edifices. In opposition to the beauty of the area, the government took an absurd decision in 1990, resettling by force the residents in a nearby location, now known as "New Bagan". The military junta affirmed that it was necessary for the preservation of the archeological site.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000b3tO_.44l68https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000b3tO_.44l68/fit=1000x1000/MG-5630.jpgBaganAfter the villagers were deported to "New Bagan", their houses were demolished and the government tried to fit the temple complex for tourism. Paradoxically, according to "Wikipedia" - Although an application was submitted, UNESCO does not designate Bagan as a World Heritage Site. The main reason given is that the military junta (SPDC) has haphazardly restored ancient stupas, temples and buildings, ignoring original architectural styles and using modern materials which bear little or no resemblance to the original designs. The junta has also established a golf course, a paved highway, and built a 200-foot (61 meter) watchtower in the southeastern suburb of Minnanthu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005xo_RS5SXFUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005xo_RS5SXFU/fit=1000x1000/MG-5670.jpgBaganEvery evening locals and tourists climbed up the pagoda stairs to experience the beautiful views over the temple complex. At that occasion some local artists were trying to sell their sand paintings to the tourists.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YJPwMaXmnuIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YJPwMaXmnuI/fit=1000x1000/MG-5720.jpgBaganI met this girl near one of many temples in Bagan. She was happy for posing for the camera ... and for the money i gave her for the book "Burmese Days" by George Orwell.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000F3xgkf_uSSghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000F3xgkf_uSSg/fit=1000x1000/MG-5742.jpgBaganWe met Kay Thi along the Irrawaddy riverbank while she was collecting beans, and her two sons were playing with a puppy dog. As i met her again the next day, i was invited to her home and introduced to her brother and her sister.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.qhQ0e7G7dUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.qhQ0e7G7dU/fit=1000x1000/MG-5816.jpgBaganOne of the 2200 temples with the Irrawady river in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000akQwp2SSDUIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000akQwp2SSDUI/fit=1000x1000/MG-5818.jpgBaganAlthough the temples and pagodas look all similar seen from the air, there are a wide range of construction types which you can notice when you get closer.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005w5VOpLv2KAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005w5VOpLv2KA/fit=1000x1000/MG-5819.jpgBaganA few minutes before landing i took a last picture by backlighthttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hj_4zqbfmIQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hj_4zqbfmIQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-5871.jpgBaganLike the locals, tourists can also hire a horse cart with driver in Bagan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gmo1CM5SH0Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gmo1CM5SH0M/fit=1000x1000/MG-5877.jpgBaganDecorated cows in Baganhttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005U8Vv_zlNwUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005U8Vv_zlNwU/fit=1000x1000/MG-5891.jpgBaganThere are various means of transportation in Burma. The vehicles are repaired by any means until they are completely out of order ... to become a part of the landscape decoration. Contrary to our throwaway society, and due to poverty, spare parts are not wasted.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W2RDVDFl8wshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W2RDVDFl8ws/fit=1000x1000/MG-0040.jpgShwedagon Pagoda in YangonOne month before flying to Myanmar i was looking for an hotel from which i could take a photo of the Shwedagon Pagoda by night. There are some hotels from which you can take pictures from their roof.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aOlYzBF8WCAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aOlYzBF8WCA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0650.jpgPuerto NatalesAfter we had visited the Torres del Paine National Park we stayed in Puerto Natales for one night.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YciSkJNKhsQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YciSkJNKhsQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0715.jpgGauchos along the road leading to Seno OtwayThe gauchos are residents of the immense plains of South America. As the North American cowboys, these gauchos were herding cows along the same route we were driving toward Seno Otway.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OHsQ5N0wS2shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OHsQ5N0wS2s/fit=1000x1000/MG-0734.jpgNandu along the road leading to Seno OtwayYou might also see a lot of nandus along the chilean routes. This flightless bird can be compared to the african ostrich and is also called "rhea". This one was seen between Puerto Natales and Seno Otway.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000qNP6nHmAJIkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000qNP6nHmAJIk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0937.jpgPuerto HambreAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Spanish settlement was founded in March 1584 by Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa as the city of Rey Don Felipe with around 300 settlers, but conditions were harsh and local vegetation was sparse. This attempt to colonise the shores of the Strait ended tragically when the settlers starved or froze to death, and when the English navigator, Sir Thomas Cavendish landed at the site in 1587 he found only ruins of the settlement. He renamed the place Port Famine, and under this name it later became a base used by the British Royal Navy. The name was subsequently translated into Spanish as Puerto Hambre or Puerto del Hambre, and these names are still in use.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001OEXZrH6Rkohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001OEXZrH6Rko/fit=1000x1000/MG-0959.jpgPuerto HambreAs a consequence of the south-chilean colonization policies, the construction of Fort Bulnes established authority over the region.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BHGBjSF2NGUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BHGBjSF2NGU/fit=1000x1000/MG-9135.jpgLauca National ParkLauca is the northernmost located National Park in Chile and it has been declared UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006NTZh.5i0gIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006NTZh.5i0gI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0988.jpgCemetary of Punta ArenasMausoleums and a lot of gravestones from many countries are represented on the municipal cemetery of Punta Arenas.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000m4PUNQYzwvYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000m4PUNQYzwvY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0555.jpgGuanakos at Torres del Paine National ParkTwo young guanakos playing in a Torres del Paine prairie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004MAQIp0AzSQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004MAQIp0AzSQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0575.jpgGirl trekking in the Torres del Paine National ParkAmazing views on the first day trail of the famous Torres del Paine trekking route.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000V0wMhbCBGqIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000V0wMhbCBGqI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0624.jpgFlamingo take off at Torres del Paine National ParkThis two flamingos were escaping from dangerous tourists. The other shy pink birds flew away as they noticed our presence some 50 meters away from their sanctuary.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sU7K5FZkMeAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sU7K5FZkMeA/fit=1000x1000/MG-1003.jpgHernando de Magellanes statue in Punta ArenasMemorial to Hernando de Magallanes in Punta Arenas.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002VjFxa3PZKshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002VjFxa3PZKs/fit=1000x1000/MG-8890.jpgNational Congress of Santiago de ChileThe former National Congress of Santiago de Chile was overtrown by Augusto Pinochet in 1973 and declared a national monument in 1976. Under the dictatorship of Pinochet a new Congress was build and stands in the city of Valparaiso.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XWhjTCh8t3whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XWhjTCh8t3w/fit=1000x1000/MG-9491.jpgValle de la LunaScientists were testing a Mars Exploration Rover prototype in the valley, which is considered as one of the most driest places on earth.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003U3Gt6cb5FEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003U3Gt6cb5FE/fit=1000x1000/MG-9591.jpgPalafitos at Chiloe IslandThe colored Palafitos can been seen in Castro, the capital of Chiloe Island. This small wooden houses built on stilts over the water are part of the interesting architecture of Chiloe. Some chilotan buildings have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ei9nrYwbnsEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ei9nrYwbnsE/fit=1000x1000/MG-9779.jpgCarretera AustralThe Carretera Austral also known as Ruta 7, was constructed under Augusto Pinochet in 1976. This road is appreciated by many tourists, but honestly i don't know why? There are certainly some nice spots along the route, above all the gloomy forests, but if you are not an enthusiastic driver, it's not worth the detour.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nxdM575dE20https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nxdM575dE20/fit=1000x1000/MG-9602.jpgRio Negro in Vicente Pérez Rosales National ParkRio Negro crossing the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005v_rfhtwL3ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005v_rfhtwL3g/fit=1000x1000/MG-9137.jpgLauca National ParkParinacota (6348m) and Pomerape (6282m) are volcanoes located in Nevados de Payachata, near the border of Bolivia.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001EBVfAZnq0ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001EBVfAZnq0o/fit=1000x1000/MG-9190.jpgVicunas at Lauca National ParkThe vicunas live in family-based groups. In the late 1960's this shy animals were hunted to near extinction for their expensive wool. After international trade restrictions the population has recovered.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vTsyPQxKvSQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vTsyPQxKvSQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-9275.jpgIquiqueAccording to "Wikipedia" - Iquique's 19th century architecture can be visited mainly downtown. Its origins are linked with the mining activities during that century, when European entrepreneurs became rich with the extraction of saltpetre and established their homes in the city. Many of them constructed big houses in different styles that predominated during the period and grouped in colonies with their respective buildings, with special stylistic, material and constructive adaptations to the climate of Iquique.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pm6kiOJfjwkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pm6kiOJfjwk/fit=1000x1000/MG-9289.jpgOficina Santa LauraLocated east of the city of Iquique, Oficina Santa Laura was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. In this nitrate town salpeter was extracted in large quantities.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002NGL2k.Jvvohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002NGL2k.Jvvo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0603.jpgHorses at Torres del Paine National ParkThe trekking routes of the national park can also be done by horse.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jDJ3NjosQdYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jDJ3NjosQdY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0652.jpgPuerto NatalesAccording to "Wikipedia" - Puerto Natales was founded on May, 1911 as a port for the sheep industry. During the last half of the 20th century the sheep industry declined and many people from Puerto Natales started to work in the coal mines of Río Turbio in Argentina. It has good tourism facilities, as it has become the base for excursions to the Torres del Paine National Park; the Cueva del Milodón Natural Monument (a cave complex used by prehistoric tribes and where remains of the extinct Giant Sloth have been found; the Bernardo O'Higgins National Park; and the Alacalufes National Reserve. The latter includes the Fjord of the Mountains, Cordillera Riesco and Cordillera Sarmiento.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OVqHe.9hN7khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OVqHe.9hN7k/fit=1000x1000/MG-0794.jpgPenguin colony at Seno OtwayBy carefully approaching, you can easily photograph the magellanic penguins from a close distance.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000X1IOKZ_f2VYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000X1IOKZ_f2VY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0801.jpgPenguin colony at Seno OtwayThree penguins walking on their established path connected to the sea.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EZv33sAdfjYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EZv33sAdfjY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0802.jpgPenguin colony at Seno OtwayAccording to "Wikipedia" - Millions of these penguins still live on the coasts of Chile and Argentina, but the species is classified as "Near Threatened," primarily due to the vulnerability of large breeding colonies to oil spills, which kill 20,000 adults and 22,000 juveniles every year off the coast of Argentina. The decline of fish populations is also responsible, as well as predators such as sea lions and giant petrels, which prey on both the chicks and the adults.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ziCQ2LHrxz4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ziCQ2LHrxz4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0905.jpgPunta ArenasPunta Arenas, the capital of the Magallanes region is also known as the southernmost city on Earth.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008vI0Nm1mHh8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008vI0Nm1mHh8/fit=1000x1000/MG-9204.jpgLauca National ParkAccording to "Wikipedia" - Lauca National Park is located in Chile's far north, in the Andean range. It encompasses an area of 1,379 km² of altiplano and mountains, the latter consisting mainly of enormous volcanoes. Las Vicuñas National Reserve is its neighbour to the south. Both protected areas, along with Salar de Surire Natural Monument, form Lauca Biosphere Reserve. The park borders Sajama National Park in Bolivia.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000030wZmdG9Ssshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000030wZmdG9Sss/fit=1000x1000/MG-9243.jpgRiver crossing at Volcán Isluga National ParkDriving through large puddles or ungraveled roads was very funny and indeed the only way to cross the National Parks. But at this time we were asking if we were still driving through Bolivia, crossing no man's land, or were we unconsciously driving again on chilean soil?http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bGPhY699OwQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bGPhY699OwQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-9237.jpgAlpaka farm while crossing BoliviaOn our way along the pampa plain, we saw this alpaka shepperds trying to explain us that we were no more in Chile but in bloody Bolivia! After we were conscious about our illegal border crossing, we were offered an orange lemonade "welcome" drink by this lovely bolivian shepperds. We took some pictures and after i agreed to sent some photos to Mrs. Paulina Viza, we exchanged our phone numbers.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000loq2oL9X.rMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000loq2oL9X.rM/fit=1000x1000/MG-9258.jpgBird at Volcán Isluga National ParkA lot of birds and other animals are part of this landscape which has abundant water ressources.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vBt3_17geNkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vBt3_17geNk/fit=1000x1000/MG-9298.jpgOficina Santa LauraIn the early 1970's, some nitrate towns were also used as concentration camp under Pinochet's military regime.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000b_0uoUdFVeAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000b_0uoUdFVeA/fit=1000x1000/MG-9341.jpgSan Pedro de AtacamaThe church of San Pedro de Atacama is the second oldest church in Chile, built during the colonization by spanish conquistadors.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000egSWm5U_R6chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000egSWm5U_R6c/fit=1000x1000/MG-9350.jpgSandpiper at Salar de AtacamaJust as we start walking through the Salar the Atacama area, we saw this little Sandpiper. This image was taken from a distance of about 3 meters.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000f6JFMFfC4Xchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000f6JFMFfC4Xc/fit=1000x1000/MG-9393.jpgFlamingo at Salar de AtacamaClassified as vulnerable, the pink-feathered andean flamingo (Phoenicoparrus andinus) is the only flamingo that has yellow legs and feet.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000o_bmBh98OgEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000o_bmBh98OgE/fit=1000x1000/MG-9371.jpgFlamingo at Salar de AtacamaOne of the most beautiful animal found in the saltflat of Atacama is the elegant andean flamingo. There are three types of flamingos living in this area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006hc51lVl5rohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006hc51lVl5ro/fit=1000x1000/MG-9462.jpgToconaoLeaving the Salar de Atacama, we pass through the "oasis" of Toconao, a town located 38 kilometers south of San Pedro de Atacama.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XMLVJcfXpq0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XMLVJcfXpq0/fit=1000x1000/MG-2467.jpgRefuge de PratiIf you don't like to sleep in a tent, then the GR20 offers you the opportunity to reconsider your opinion. The dormitories along the trail are furnished with long wooden bunks and they can occupy up to 30 people. Just imagine the conditions in such a place when few people don't take a shower. If you don't want to sleep in a tent, you have to endure stinkness and snoring.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007hZLKGoLXwQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007hZLKGoLXwQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2478.jpgFrom Refuge de Prati to CozzanoOn this sunny day we were not really enthousiastic to continue our long journey to the next stage, the "Refuge d'Usciolu". Unexpected weather conditions the days before, overcrowded dormitories and probably the bad breakfast experience, decided us hours later to leave our planned itinerary.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002J500awOxN0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002J500awOxN0/fit=1000x1000/MG-2537.jpgMare e Mare CentreIt takes about 4 hours to walk from Guitera-les-Bains to Quasquara. As we were walking on Mare e Mare Centre we realized that the trail was quite pretty. Mare e Mare Centre was not crowded and there were a lot of nice villages and sleeping accomodations along the route.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GszG_hrdG2khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GszG_hrdG2k/fit=1000x1000/MG-2500.jpgFrom Refuge de Prati to CozzanoWalking along beautiful granite rock formations, we saw just a few hikers on this beautiful day. At the "Col de Laparo" we realized that the GR20 cross another long-distance trail called "Mare e Mare Centre", which connects the eastern coast through the heart of Corsica to the western coast. We decided to leave the GR20 trail to join "Mare e Mare Centre".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JbnFbDZaRmchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JbnFbDZaRmc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2588.jpgCursinu resting at Col St. Georges"Pietra", a corsican dog breed called Cursinu, posing on Col St. Georges (between Quasquara and Porticcio). "Pietra", we named after the famous cosican beer, joined us as we were leaving the GR20 trail days ago. The cursinu went with us along Mare e Mare Centre for a couple of days and we realized later - as a lot of people were starring at us, - that these intelligent dogs are very appreciated in corsica.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DlQBbwTUW2ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DlQBbwTUW2o/fit=1000x1000/MG-2573.jpgQuasquaraApproaching the red-roofed village of Quasquara, we achieved the 5th stage of Mare a Mare Centre.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nvP2Dps5d9khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nvP2Dps5d9k/fit=1000x1000/MG-2398.jpgBetween Vizzavona and Bergeries de CapannellePhoto taken on the 9th stage of the GR20 trail between Vizzavona and "Bergeries de Capannelle". The GR20 circuit is considered to be Europe's most difficult long distance trekking route.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NOdi_x.6V9Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NOdi_x.6V9Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-2848.jpgLac de NinoAnd finally we reached the high-altitude lake "Lac de Nino" known for its beautiful setting.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WFsPGBifJ7Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WFsPGBifJ7A/fit=1000x1000/MG-2403.jpgBergeries d'AlzetaThe picturesque sheepfold buildings of the "Bergeries d'Alzeta".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tR8NfI0iCXghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tR8NfI0iCXg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2456.jpgClose to Refuge de PratiUnder the grey sky, lighting colors were cast all around us, about 1 hour's walk to the "Refuge de Prati".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ki18yqNgL.Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ki18yqNgL.Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-2475.jpgRefuge de PratiAfter a sleepless night and a crappy breakfast (one piece of dry bread and one cup of tea), we start a new day leaving "Refuge de Prati", heading Cozzano.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xxTXaUwqUpYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xxTXaUwqUpY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2486.jpgFrom Refuge de Prati to CozzanoBeautiful views of the massif accompany us along the stony path to Cozzano.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cEClwuu1C9chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cEClwuu1C9c/fit=1000x1000/MG-2491.jpgFrom Refuge de Prati to CozzanoAmazing landscapes in the heart of Corsica.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009mEgBDNjxmwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009mEgBDNjxmw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2604.jpgBetween Quasquara and PorticcioPhoto taken between Quasquara and Porticcio.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000023a01A5CupAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000023a01A5CupA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2622.jpgFilitosaAccording to "Wikipedia" - Filitosa is a megalithic site in southern Corsica, France. The period of occupation spans from the end of the Neolithic era and the beginning of the Bronze Age, until around the Roman times in Corsica.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000S2_j4gXHrgAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000S2_j4gXHrgA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2678.jpgBonifacioFrom the sea you can contemplate the fortifications which have been placed on the top of chalky limestone cliffs.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000swy6GBb8m8khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000swy6GBb8m8k/fit=1000x1000/MG-2698.jpgBonifacioThe fortress of Bonifacio was built 828 by Boniface II of Tuscany. Today Bonifatio is one of the most appreciated locations in the Mediterranean for sailing and diving.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008ZTVvJN6kPghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008ZTVvJN6kPg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2787.jpgCorteThe citadelle of Corte is the only military fortress in Corsica. The first fortifications were build in the 9th century.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hNfdcU2Zg6ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hNfdcU2Zg6o/fit=1000x1000/MG-2819.jpgForest of PoppaghiaIf you have more days left in corsica you should try the beautiful walk which starts in the forest of Poppaghia and ends near the "Lac de Nino".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oEnF.Z54iAwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oEnF.Z54iAw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2901.jpgWild pigsWe saw those wild pigs,or domestic boars, just as we finished the walk to "Lac the Nino". As you can see, there must be some interbreeding between pigs and boars in corsica.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003O32iEiqjoAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003O32iEiqjoA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2743.jpgTurtle between Porto-Vecchio and CartalavonuWe saw this turtle in the "maquis" as we were walking somewhere between Porto-Vecchio and Cartalavonu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000439Db_KVWWQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000439Db_KVWWQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2760.jpgDriving from Porto-Vecchio to CorteBy car Corte is about 2 hours away from Porto-Vecchio. The roads were pretty empty that day.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004awoYuimwvYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004awoYuimwvY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2764.jpgDriving from Porto-Vecchio to CorteMaquis and dry sunny places, are typical for corsican landscapes, here between Porto-Vecchio and Corte.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HGTOXSVzhwYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HGTOXSVzhwY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2029.jpgAstronomical Clock of PragueIf you can't find the astronomical clock, just look for the most crowded place in Prague ;-). The medieval clock was build by the clockmaker Mikulas of Kadan in the year 1410. The calendar dial, small gothic sculptures, decorations, the moving figures and several other modifications were added later, until 1866.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZK9cEhYbET0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZK9cEhYbET0/fit=1000x1000/MG-2033.jpgHorse drawn carriage in PragueTourists can also explore the city by horse drawn carriage.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006p8eiPpY_gkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006p8eiPpY_gk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2050.jpgPrague CastleThe whole complex of the Prague castle is a mix of palaces, religious edifices and fortifications.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VN9.gzowJhEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VN9.gzowJhE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2058.jpgStatues seen from the Charles BridgePhoto of religious statues taken from the Charles Bridge.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uP18cvpyw34https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uP18cvpyw34/fit=1000x1000/MG-2080.jpgPrague Castle EntranceSoldiers guarding the entrance of the I courtyard. I was wondering why there were so less tourists passing through the gate, then i noticed the two inviting giant statues :-).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j.q0lILxgcchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j.q0lILxgcc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2145.jpgPrague CastleView from the Charles Bridge up to the Prague Castle.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000a0jILtaX2.Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000a0jILtaX2.A/fit=1000x1000/MG-2154.jpgDancing HouseThat's what happen when you drink too much beer and try to build a house at the same time :-). The original semi-glass building known as the dancing house, or called Tancici Dum in Czech language, has been constructed between 1992-1996.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007ZWXpO_YSSohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007ZWXpO_YSSo/fit=1000x1000/MG-4555.jpgNear the astronomical clockA tourist crowd waiting for the astronomical clock to strike the next hour.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DhMlIXSN5HYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DhMlIXSN5HY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2020.jpgView over Prague from the Old Town Hall TowerStanding on a higher viewpoint you realize that there are many churches and towers in Prague.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HZvHwwyhjrghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HZvHwwyhjrg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2049.jpgPrague CastleThe largest ancient castle complex in the world was build in the 9th century and is located on the heights of Hradcany. In the course of time, buildings of different architectural styles were constructed as the location was occupied by Czech kings, Holy Roman emperors and Presidents.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BcHmnX08pwkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BcHmnX08pwk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2078.jpgSt. Nicholas ChurchThe Baroque St.Nicholas Church is situated in the Old Town Square. This cityscape photo has been taken from the castle.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Y6BC4F9dvGwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Y6BC4F9dvGw/fit=1000x1000/MG-2006.jpgView over Prague from the Old Town Hall TowerPrague, the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic, is one of the most beautiful city in Europe.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BjPw0AMXyGkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BjPw0AMXyGk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2011.jpgView over the Old Town Square from the Old Town Hall TowerAnother picture taken from the Old Town Hall Tower showing the dominating 80m high Bohemian Gothic architecture with the unusual name "Church of Our Lady Before Tyn".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HwN4ommXHRghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HwN4ommXHRg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2017.jpgView over the Old Town Square from the Old Town Hall TowerClimb up the stairs to reach the top of the Old Town Hall Tower to enjoy the view over the square.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H4edCL9ePtshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H4edCL9ePts/fit=1000x1000/MG-2012.jpgView over the Old Town Square from the Old Town Hall TowerAccording to "Wikipedia" - ...Prague has become one of Europe's (and the world's) most popular tourist destinations. It is the sixth most-visited European city after London, Paris, Rome, Madrid and Berlin. Prague suffered considerably less damage during World War II than some other major cities in the region, allowing most of its historic architecture to stay true to form. It contains one of the world's most pristine and varied collections of architecture, from Art Nouveau to Baroque, Renaissance, Cubist, Gothic, Neo-Classical and ultra-modern.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JVmI8keOlbEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JVmI8keOlbE/fit=1000x1000/MG-4742.jpgDriving from Reykjavik to HveragerðiAs we arrived in Reykjavik in August the weather was rather unpredictable. The capital of Iceland, is a pleasant city, but most of the people travel to Iceland to see the unique natural sightseeings. So we left Reykjavik driving toward Hveragerði.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E1c3jkVNayMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E1c3jkVNayM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5266.jpgAscending Mount HeklaOn the top you can distinguish smoke rising up from the ground. There is also a box whith a guestbook placed in it which you can fill out with your name.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bTTXmv1GRaQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bTTXmv1GRaQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-6136.jpgIcelandic horse and its foalAn icelandic mare with its foal, along the ring road, heading Brekka.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dTHM7cUeauIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dTHM7cUeauI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6160.jpgIcelandic horsesAccording to "Wikipedia" - The ancestors of the Icelandic horse were probably taken to Iceland by Viking Age Scandinavians between 860 and 935 AD. The Norse settlers were followed by immigrants from Norse colonies in Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Western Isles of Scotland. These later settlers arrived with the ancestors of what would elsewhere become Shetland, Highland, and Connemara ponies, which were crossed with the previously imported animals. There may also have been a connection with the Yakut pony, and the breed has physical similarities to the Nordlandshest of Norway. Other breeds with similar characteristics include the Faroe pony of the Faeroe Islands and the Norwegian Fjord horse. About 900 years ago, attempts were made to introduce eastern blood into the Icelandic, resulting in a degeneration of the stock. In 982 AD the Icelandic Althing (parliament) passed laws prohibiting the importation of horses into Iceland, thus ending crossbreeding. The breed has now been bred pure in Iceland for more than 1,000 years. This horses were also standing somewhere along the ring road, heading Brekka.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IWKVe6OatD0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IWKVe6OatD0/fit=1000x1000/MG-6510.jpgSomewhere between Skógar und NúpsstaðurWe left Skógafoss and drove heading west, somewhere between Skógar und Núpsstaður.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lrghHemmnoAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lrghHemmnoA/fit=1000x1000/MG-6569.jpgSkeiðarárjökull GlacierView on the Skeiðarárjökull Glacier fringe which runs down from Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000US1bi_ypCsghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000US1bi_ypCsg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6188.jpgIcelandic horse seen along Route 1...and a black one. In ancient times white horses were sometimes sacrified by the Norse people.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008H2p7XGu93Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008H2p7XGu93A/fit=1000x1000/MG-6181.jpgIcelandic horse seen along Route 1A beautiful white horse on the same location, still along Route 1, at the same time but photographed under better light conditions.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000du2tqwgNWe4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000du2tqwgNWe4/fit=1000x1000/MG-6688.jpgJökulsárlón in Vatnajökull National ParkIn a cold evening, shortly before sunset we made some pictures of Jökulsárlón. The glacier area has often been used as a movie location, amongst others "A View to a Kill", "Tomb Raider" or "Batman Begins".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000I5D9z0CORnUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000I5D9z0CORnU/fit=1000x1000/MG-5634.jpgKrafla volcanic areaThe Krafla volcanic area includes the geothermic activity zone of Námafjall and the Stóra-Víti crater with a drilling rig just next to it. This photo has been taken near the Near Stóra-Víti crater.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yg1Kh8s0dYkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yg1Kh8s0dYk/fit=1000x1000/MG-5662.jpgKrafla volcanic areaTourists walking along the small turquoise crater which is located just next to the Stóra-Víti crater.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VGZpzyujHKwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VGZpzyujHKw/fit=1000x1000/MG-5686.jpgTourists walking around the Stóra-Víti crater's rim...the same tourists walking along the Stóra-Víti crater's rim. The steam emanate from the Kröflustöð geothermal power station.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AfvSrjK6rM4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AfvSrjK6rM4/fit=1000x1000/MG-5704.jpgStóra-Víti CraterStóra-Víti which means "big hell" is an explosion crater, arised in 1724 due to an explosive eruption. Many other volcanic eruptions and earthquakes took place in this part of Island until 1729.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gzX70GDHydYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gzX70GDHydY/fit=1000x1000/MG-6315.jpgSeals in HindisvikHindisvík is a touristically interesting region for seal watching, as it is known to be one of the best spots in Iceland.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000i9N.JZf7Fschttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000i9N.JZf7Fsc/fit=1000x1000/MG-6399.jpgDriving from Hindisvík to HvammstangiA group of sheep blocking the road as we were trying to drive back from Hindisvík to Hvammstangi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001CeXJ6XimZQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001CeXJ6XimZQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-5909.jpgHarbour of DalvíkDalvík is a small sleepy village with approximately 1800 residents, located in a very beautiful area, east of Eyjafjörður and close to the valley of Svarfaðardalur with a fantastic view on the hills. We arrived in Dalvík in the evening. As we entered in a hotel for asking for a cheap room, the owner suggested us a wooden house for a small extra charge. Built near the riverbank and with a nice veranda including a huge whirlpool, we agreed immediately. Our new friend was very polite and helping! He gave us also the key for the hotel, because he had to leave the village for a couple of hours, and for the case, if we would like to play billard in the mainroom. Later at night, we all played billard and drunk some beers together with the owner.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Uux0I5sMLWMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Uux0I5sMLWM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5993.jpgNear Hofsós driving on Route 76Shortly before arriving in Hofsós, driving on Route 76, we were welcomed by menacing clouds. Hofsós is one of the oldest fishing villages in the north of Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WagPJ_EUxIghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WagPJ_EUxIg/fit=1000x1000/MG-5971.jpgIcelandic horse seen along Route 82An Icelandic horse photographed along Route 82, between Ólafsfjörður and Hofsós.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WjniDXSXKKIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WjniDXSXKKI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6496.jpgNorthern Fulmar beeing released near Skógafoss WaterfallRob founds a Northern Fulmar near the slopes of Skógafoss. First we tought that the sea bird was injured because we could catch it very easily. Then we realized that it was healthy.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BKXmwVy7URMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BKXmwVy7URM/fit=1000x1000/MG-6025.jpgBlack sanded beachOne of many marine animals who were taking a sunbath on the beach.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007i8h0G2Tcf4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007i8h0G2Tcf4/fit=1000x1000/MG-4955.jpgGeothermal area of HaukadalurIsland, the land of fire and ice, is also known for its geysers and hot springs. "Geysir", the original and most famous geyser in the world; "Strokkur", which erupts every 5-10 minutes; and the hotspring pool Blesi, are all closely located at the geothermal area of Haukadalur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PK2gf28y2fMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PK2gf28y2fM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5080.jpgLeaving Þjórsádalur heading StöngThe Viking settlement at Stöng was reconstructed in 1974 near the original excavated farm ruins.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rlU5A2PKsokhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rlU5A2PKsok/fit=1000x1000/MG-6104.jpgDriving between Route 75 and Route 1Driving in direction of Blönduós, somewhere between Route 75 and Route 1, chasing the clouds..http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000t9Unp4cJtqIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000t9Unp4cJtqI/fit=1000x1000/MG-5085.jpgLeaving Þjórsádalur heading StöngAlmost every centimeter of icelandic soil is dominated by volcanic ash. The most devastating volcano eruption took place in 1783, causing a terrible famine which lasted for many years and killed nearly a quarter of the population. According to "Wikipedia" - The system erupted over an 8 month period during 1783-1784 from the Laki fissure and the adjoining Grímsvötn volcano, pouring out an estimated 14 km3 (3.4 cu mi) of basalt lava and clouds of poisonous hydrofluoric acid/sulfur-dioxide compounds that killed over 50% of Iceland's livestock population, leading to famine which killed approximately 25% of the population. The Laki eruption and its aftermath has been estimated to have killed over six million people globally, making it the deadliest volcanic eruption in historical times. The drop in temperatures, due to the sulfuric dioxide gases spewed into the northern hemisphere, caused crop failures in Europe, droughts in India, and Japan's worst famine.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006mx8Q7OHQ_shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006mx8Q7OHQ_s/fit=1000x1000/MG-6071.jpgTurfhouses of GlaumbærThe icelandic turfhouses of Glaumbær are situated in Skagafjörður, in northern Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Dp9Nk0NCATohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Dp9Nk0NCATo/fit=1000x1000/MG-6123.jpgDriving from Blönduós to BrekkaThe landscapes were amazing while we were driving from Blönduós to Brekka.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.0UiLuQ6euIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.0UiLuQ6euI/fit=1000x1000/MG-5262.jpgAscending Mount HeklaAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Flatey Book Annal wrote of the 1341 eruption that people saw large and small birds flying in the mountain's fire which were taken to be souls. In the 16th century Caspar Peucer wrote that the Gates of Hell could be found in "the bottomless abyss of Hekla Fell". The belief that Hekla was the gate to Hell persisted until the 1800s. There is still a legend that witches gather on Hekla for Easter.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AiVqeEjoCGMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AiVqeEjoCGM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5265.jpgAscending Mount HeklaWhen you arrive at the top you will enjoy breathtaking views of the higlands below the summit of Hekla.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YusehX0BZe4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YusehX0BZe4/fit=1000x1000/MG-7051.jpgKittiwakes nesting at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsOne of many Kittiwakes nesting at the Látrabjarg bird cliffs. The Kittiwake is the only type of cliff-nesting seagull.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000q42MtXw0opUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000q42MtXw0opU/fit=1000x1000/MG-7057.jpgPuffins at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsThe cliff is also famous to be probably the best place in the world to photograph puffins at a very close range.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gDmyYqqtcIEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gDmyYqqtcIE/fit=1000x1000/MG-7094.jpgKittiwakes nesting at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsTwo Northern Fulmars at the Látrabjarg birdcliffs. Fulmar chicks are known for their caracteristic defence mechanism, which consists to spit a gastric orange oil against predators.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000y9wTsflDj8Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000y9wTsflDj8Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-7148.jpgKittiwakes nesting at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsAnother adult Kittiwake taking care of a chick at the Látrabjarg birdcliffs.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GrOPNHQrOUshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GrOPNHQrOUs/fit=1000x1000/MG-7199.jpgPuffins at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsWhile thousands of puffins are hunted every year, many young puffins are rescued by the children.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.2TAp40EdjIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.2TAp40EdjI/fit=1000x1000/MG-7644.jpgEyjafjallajökull areaA 4x4 vehicle driving through the gravel road Route F249.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vvcL.s9VKTUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vvcL.s9VKTU/fit=1000x1000/MG-7384.jpgAlaskan Lupine at the Námaskarð passWe stopped our car on the Námaskarð pass to take some pictures of this large Alaskan Lupine field.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000y5fsThGxmFghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000y5fsThGxmFg/fit=1000x1000/MG-7467.jpgDriving through Sprengisandur on Route F26Driving on Route F26 through the vast moonscape of Sprengisandur, located between Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000quvSCp596zwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000quvSCp596zw/fit=1000x1000/MG-7806.jpgNúpsstaðurThe old chapel is probably the most significant turf house in Núpsstaður. It is said that it was built on the remaining structure of a church dating from the 17th century. According to "UNESCO" - A church was built at Núpsstaður in earliest Christian times, or at least sometime before 1200 AD. Unfortunately many sites are mentioning the area of Núpsstaður as an UNESCO world heritage site. When you look exactly at the UNESCO website, Núpsstaður has been submitted by the National Museum of Iceland in 2011 but UNESCO hasn't still approved the site as world heritage site. So, it's still on the waiting list for recognition...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000phMnbQ0zWyohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000phMnbQ0zWyo/fit=1000x1000/MG-7500.jpgDriving through Sprengisandur on Route F26According to "Wikipedia" - Sprengisandur was, if at all possible, avoided by medieval Icelanders, even if it meant taking the longer route. One example is in ch. 8 of the Hrafnkels saga: the chieftain Hrafnkell, who lived in the East Fjords and rather close to the northern end of Sprengisandur, prefers to travel to the Alþingi by going south along the shore of the island - his route is much longer and slower, but it goes all the way through inhabited regions. His enemies, living in the same neighbourhood but needing speed, decide to take the shorter yet more exhausting Spregisandur route, so as to arrive at the Alþingi much earlier and have enough time to whip up some support for their case. Another example is in Ölkofra þáttr, where the chieftain Broddi, who lives in Vopnafjörður, returns home from Alþingi by taking the Kjölur route north and then going east along the northern shore of the island - a much longer road home than one through Sprengisandur, yet one going all the way through inhabited regions. As usual with uninhabited places in Iceland, Sprengisandur route was considered to be haunted by ghosts. Both themes, the difficulty of passage and the presence of ghosts, are referred to in the famous Icelandic song Á Sprengisandi, written by Grímur Thomsen (1820-1896).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008QEcOyLzAP8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008QEcOyLzAP8/fit=1000x1000/MG-7868.jpgSvinafellsjökull GlacierHikers exploring the glacier of Svinafellsjökull.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XkAwlOOsJt8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XkAwlOOsJt8/fit=1000x1000/MG-6926.jpgChurch of KolbeinsstaðirThe lonely church of Kolbeinsstaðir is situated at the base of Snæfellsness peninsula and you can see it from Route 54.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004pCJTCHeHeohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004pCJTCHeHeo/fit=1000x1000/MG-6996.jpgOn the way to the westfjords, valley seen from Route 1During the Eyjafjalla eruptions, starting in april 2010, we decided to visit Iceland a second time. We started our journey on the famous Route 1, which leads us first to the Westfjords.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000220KG88jytghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000220KG88jytg/fit=1000x1000/MG-5075.jpgLeaving Þjórsádalur heading StöngWe were leaving Þjórsádalur and driving to Stöng, a historically and archeologically significant place in Island. In 1939 the remainings of a viking-era longhouse, a blacksmith, and a cowshed were found and excavated at Stöng. Originally only the stone foundations remained, preserved by the ashes of the Hekla volcano eruption in 1104.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000h_mcQtggjnQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000h_mcQtggjnQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-5152.jpgAscending Mount HeklaOn a sunny morning we drove to the foot of Mount Hekla, one of Island's most active volcanoes. As the weather was pretty good we decided to walk all the way up to the top.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xi.utT3OfXMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xi.utT3OfXM/fit=1000x1000/MG-5581.jpgHverir, also known as Hverarönd located at the foothill of Námafjall, just near the Námaskarð passThe area in Hverir, also known as Hverarönd, is another well-known natural sightseeing spot in Island. At the foothill of Námafjall, located just near the Námaskarð pass, the colorful geothermal area is easily accessible from Route 1.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_jHjjTg5wrYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_jHjjTg5wrY/fit=1000x1000/MG-5589.jpgMudpot in Hverir, also known as HveraröndOne of many mudpots in Island. Some skin care products, like facial mud masks are basically taken from geothermal sources. But when the mud bubbles are scorching hot, you shouldn't put the mud directly on your face.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E0.lTjafDfshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E0.lTjafDfs/fit=1000x1000/MG-5636.jpgKrafla volcanic areaDry soil near the geothermal steam pipeline. The first homemade "pipeline" was installed by a farmer in 1907 which conducted steam into his house. Before that, in 1904, the first electricity producing hydropower plant was built near Reykjavic.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MVHs9Tm.j1ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MVHs9Tm.j1o/fit=1000x1000/MG-5643.jpgKrafla volcanic areaOn a sunny day with optimal light conditions you can see different colors for each hill.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sWfFglJKIB8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sWfFglJKIB8/fit=1000x1000/MG-5783.jpgKrafla volcanic areaAccording to "Wikipedia" - Krafla is a caldera of about 10 km in diameter with a 90 km long fissure zone, in the north of Iceland in the Mývatn region. Its highest peak reaches up to 818 m and it is 2 km in depth. There have been 29 reported eruptions in recorded history.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Oys4IjYUuB0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Oys4IjYUuB0/fit=1000x1000/MG-5784.jpgKrafla volcanic areaAt present time the Krafla volcanic site is still considered as active. The ground underneath your feet is everything else than solid. If you leave the marked paths, you will do it on your own risks.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Zw_Dh_Bpk6ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Zw_Dh_Bpk6o/fit=1000x1000/MG-5982.jpgIcelandic valleyAccording to "Wikipedia" - Most Icelanders are descendants of Norse (particularly from Western Norway) and Gaelic settlers. Icelandic, a North Germanic language, is closely related to Faroese and some West Norwegian dialects. The country's cultural heritage includes traditional Icelandic cuisine, poetry, and the medieval Icelanders' sagas. Currently, Iceland has the smallest population among NATO members and is the only one with no standing army. According to Freedom of the Press, Iceland has one of the freest presses in the world. This photo was taken somewhere between Route 82 and Route 76.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HHXcz7W5l8Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HHXcz7W5l8A/fit=1000x1000/MG-6023.jpgBlack sanded beachOn a cold windy day, we stopped near Hofsós for walking shortly along the shore. Most of the beaches located near volcanoes have black sand.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004t92U3QUDvohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004t92U3QUDvo/fit=1000x1000/MG-6168.jpgIcelandic foalIcelandic horses are also unique for the additional gaits. A horse gait is the kind of movement which a horse can execute. The different type of gaits are: walk, trot, canter and gallop. The best icelandic horses are able to perform two more gaits, the tölt and the flying pace.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LvFvuLbWwpwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LvFvuLbWwpw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6060.jpgRainbow over GlaumbærIsland is one of the countries in which you will see a lot of rainbows due to the constantly and rapidly changing weather from sunshine to rainfalls. In Reykjavic a restaurant waiter told us that there is a proverb in Island saying "If you don't like the weather, just wait five minutes". This rainbow was spotted near Glaumbær.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DOBTSpegPKshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DOBTSpegPKs/fit=1000x1000/MG-6133.jpgIcelandic horseA white icelandic horse along the Ring Road in direction of the Brekka farm, northern Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oNyCW5Ps_Sghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oNyCW5Ps_Sg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6190.jpgIcelandic horses along Route 1Two shy icelandic horses, taken on the Ring Road a few minutes before rain started.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oc1SHtGH4YIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oc1SHtGH4YI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6207.jpgIcelandic horse seen along Route 1Laughing horse...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KsafqMW7j7chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KsafqMW7j7c/fit=1000x1000/MG-6226.jpgIcelandic sheep, seen between Hvammstangi and HindisvíkAn icelandic sheep along Route 711, between Hvammstangi and Hindisvík. The icelandic sheep is a direct descendant of the Viking sheep, introduced in Island nearly 1200 years ago.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ybclVZQegOYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ybclVZQegOY/fit=1000x1000/MG-6275.jpgIcelandic horses playing along Route 711Three young half-wild "Hindisvík" horses, playing along Route 711 near the bay of Hindisvík.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009FhNo4ONSbQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009FhNo4ONSbQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-6411.jpgHraunfossarHraunfossar is is the name for a group of waterfall cascades situated between Húsafell and Reykholt in western Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004yvPue0r7hchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004yvPue0r7hc/fit=1000x1000/MG-6381.jpgHindisvikAccording to "Wikipedia" - One theory suggests the first people to have visited Iceland were members of a Hiberno-Scottish mission or hermits, also known as Papar, who came in the 8th century, though no archaeological discoveries support this hypothesis. The monks are supposed to have left with the arrival of Norsemen, who systematically settled in the period circa AD 870-930. Recently archeologists have found the ruins of a cabin in Hafnir on the Reykjanes peninsula (close to Keflavík Airport). Carbon dating reveals that the cabin was abandoned between 770 to 880 AD, suggesting that someone had come to Iceland well before 874 AD.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001UskcORIpmwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001UskcORIpmw/fit=1000x1000/MG-6571.jpgSkeiðarárjökull GlacierSkeiðarárjökull is easily visible when you are driving on the Ring Route. The glacier is situated in the Skaftafell National Park, which became a part of Vatnajökull National Park in 2008.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vmYXktf7g4ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vmYXktf7g4g/fit=1000x1000/MG-6632.jpgJökulsárlón in Vatnajökull National ParkSituated in the Vatnajökull National Park, between Höfn and Skaftafell, Jökulsárlón is known to be the largest glacier lake in Island. The ice is constantly calved off by the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, the second largest glacier tongue of mighty Vatnajökull.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000051AdsJ1YWWUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000051AdsJ1YWWU/fit=1000x1000/MG-6757.jpgSmall river, seen while walking to SvartifossOn this day we started a short 1-2hour hike which leads to the main attraction of the trail, the unusual black fall of Svartifoss.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003bP7jRiajSshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003bP7jRiajSs/fit=1000x1000/MG-6765.jpgIcelandic Rock Ptarmigan, seen while walking to SvartifossOn our way to Svartifoss we saw this chicken-like bird. The "Icelandic Rock Ptarmigan" flies very clumsily.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wNOemQ9qYQshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wNOemQ9qYQs/fit=1000x1000/MG-6781.jpgSvartifoss WaterfallAt the end of the trail you will reach Svartifoss, not the largest waterfall in Island, but one of the most beautiful because of the spectacular basalt column formations which surrounds the waterfall.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000eFXP_nZiaT0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000eFXP_nZiaT0/fit=1000x1000/MG-6818.jpgIcelandic sheeps along the starting stretch of Route F 206Two icelandic sheep along the starting stretch of Route F 206. F-roads are the most difficult roads in Island and usually they get very unsuitable for non-4x4 cars in the end of the summer. The rough road F206 leads to the well-known Laki, a volcanic fissure of about 25km.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YGqpZQHTqH0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YGqpZQHTqH0/fit=1000x1000/MG-6840.jpgDriving to LaufskálavarðaThe changing weather brings up some nice landscape sceneries as we are driving to Laufskálavarða.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lAS1NM8MIwwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lAS1NM8MIww/fit=1000x1000/MG-6905.jpgDriving from Akranes to SnæfellsnessAs we were driving from Akranes to Snæfellsness we saw a fenced area which could be crossed over a ladder. The freedom to roam in Island is an unwritten right based on an ancient practice, still enjoyed nowadays, with some limitations. That means that you are allowed to walk freely on public or private land, whenever and wherever you want.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kLOaRkPm6RQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kLOaRkPm6RQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-6911.jpgDriving to the peninsula of SnæfellsnessOn our last day on the Ring Road, we were driving ahead to the peninsula of Snæfellsness before turning back to Reykjavic.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000weTvUUyRMwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000weTvUUyRMw/fit=1000x1000/MG-7139.jpgRazorbill at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Razorbill (Alca torda) is a colonial seabird that will only come to land in order to breed. It is the largest living member of the Auk family. This agile bird will choose only one partner for life and females will lay one egg per year. Razorbills will nest along coastal cliffs in enclosed or slightly exposed crevices. Both parents will spend equal amount of time incubating. Once the chick has hatched, the parents will take turns foraging for their young and will sometimes fly long distances before finding prey.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AdSbJxNO7IYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AdSbJxNO7IY/fit=1000x1000/MG-7171.jpgPuffins at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsTens of thousands of puffins are hunted every year for their meat. The birds are easilly catched with a net. The used hunting technique is also known as "sky fishing".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000C57LmICaTCchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000C57LmICaTCc/fit=1000x1000/MG-7197.jpgPuffins at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsIn August millions of young puffins leave their colonies to fly over the Atlantic. They use the moon to navigate, but many puffins wrongly identify the streetlights with the moon. When they crash on the streets, children in Iceland collect them, and at the end of the summer, the young puffins are released.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000X4.L4S10AHYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000X4.L4S10AHY/fit=1000x1000/MG-7228.jpgPuffins at the Látrabjarg bird cliffsThe puffin is also called lundey (lundi), which is the old Norse name for the atlantic puffin. You will find world's most largest single puffin colony in the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, with Heimaey, beeing the largest island in the group.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QiMz8l_A9eQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QiMz8l_A9eQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-7288.jpgBetween Varmahlíð und AkureyriDriving between Varmahlíð und Akureyri along the valley of Öxnadalur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009opSBtTfkdMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009opSBtTfkdM/fit=1000x1000/MG-7346.jpgKrafla volcanic areaPhoto taken from the geothermal field near the Stóra-Víti Crater.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tbaHPZq.AZEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tbaHPZq.AZE/fit=1000x1000/MG-7348.jpgView on the geothermal field of HverirIlluminated Námafjall and the geothermal field of Hverir taken from the rim of the Stóra-Víti Crater.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AlRrvkkaTMEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AlRrvkkaTME/fit=1000x1000/MG-7394.jpgAdaldalur ValleyThe Adaldalur Valley and its river, Laxá í Aðaldal, is very famous for fishing. Highly appreciated by the fishermen, the salmon river is also known to be one of the world's finest river for brown trout fishing.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vdAJBLk9k9chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vdAJBLk9k9c/fit=1000x1000/MG-7507.jpgDriving through Sprengisandur on Route F26If you plan to drive through Route F26, be sure that your car is able for deep water crossing.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tGFu.VsNllghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tGFu.VsNllg/fit=1000x1000/MG-7548.jpgGullfoss WaterfallAccording to "Wikipedia" - Gullfoss is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. The wide Hvítá rushes southward. About a kilometer above the falls it turns sharply to the left and flows down into a wide curved three-step "staircase" and then abruptly plunges in two stages (11 m and 21 m) into a crevice 32 m (105 ft) deep. The crevice, about 20 m (60 ft) wide, and 2.5 km in length, is at right angles to the flow of the river.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OoT5dH8tVJQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OoT5dH8tVJQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-7575.jpgIcelandic horsesTwo icelandic horses lit by the sun, somewhere south along Route 1.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000N3O.k.xeQbwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000N3O.k.xeQbw/fit=1000x1000/MG-7599.jpgEyjafjallajökull areaThe april 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption was one of the reasons why we booked a flight to Island. Although the volcano eruption was declared as over in October 2010, we couldn't notice any sign of volcanic activity on our trip in July 2010.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MhRv5XRkUaQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MhRv5XRkUaQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-7628.jpgEyjafjallajökull areaRoute F249 connects the main road to Þórsmörk. F249 is about 30km long. The challenging gravel road is only suitable for 4WD vehicles. The rough way to Þórsmörk has about 20 rivercrossings, most of them unbridged.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Vjt99u7DHUohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Vjt99u7DHUo/fit=1000x1000/MG-7629.jpgEyjafjallajökull areaRoute F249 is the only accessible road to Þórsmörk by 4WD engines. Another more challenging possibility is to hike on the trekking trails.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rdl8nUT_0KEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rdl8nUT_0KE/fit=1000x1000/MG-7748.jpgIcelandic foal along Route 1A young icelandic horse lies in the gras beside the Ring Road in south Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000D6WOtsuXeFQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000D6WOtsuXeFQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-7775.jpgNúpsstaðurThis old turf houses are located in a farmland just at the foothill of the 688m high Lómagnúpur cliff.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.af5NgwcLGIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.af5NgwcLGI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2540.jpgWoman carrying a basket in KhajurahoWe met this lady on the way back to Khajuraho. After she was given the rest of our cookies and a handful of balloons for her children, i asked for taking a photo of her.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000R3dxCaYJdSghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000R3dxCaYJdSg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2551.jpgWomen walking in a street in KhajurahoSometimes people ask me if i could send them the photos i've taken of them. I would do it in any case, but sometimes language barriers, an incomplete adress or at worst a foreign writing, makes understanding very difficult and frustrating. Therefore, i'm very sorry for the people who didn't get the photos i promised. Maybe someone know the address of this women?http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FLzGzy93Ptkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FLzGzy93Ptk/fit=1000x1000/MG-2477.jpgKhajuraho templesAccording to "Wikipedia" - the Khajuraho temples are now set in a parkland landscape. When India gained independence from Britain in 1947 the landscape setting was semi-desert and scrub. The archaeological park now has something of the character of an English public park, with mown grass, rose beds and ornamental trees. This may be popular with visitors but has no relationship with the historic landscape at the time the temples were built.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008ncH1blBMokhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008ncH1blBMok/fit=1000x1000/MG-2682.jpgCycle rickshaw in JaipurCycle rickshaws are a very common and popular means of transport in India. The drivers, generally poor and skinny guys, earn very low wages for working very hard everyday of the week.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000T7Di9PDFEGohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000T7Di9PDFEGo/fit=1000x1000/MG-2539.jpgBoy in KhajurahoPortrait of an indian boy we met as we were turning back to Khajuraho village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000U4x.b5ZIZ2Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000U4x.b5ZIZ2E/fit=1000x1000/MG-2550.jpgMan standing at the entrance of Chaturbhuja templeAll the temples in Khajuraho were build between the 10th and 12th centuries, during the reign of the Chandella dynasty. The Chaturbhuja temple is one of the few temples, which was build in a time as the power of the Kings began to decline.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GLydyjvdJ1Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GLydyjvdJ1I/fit=1000x1000/MG-2558.jpgThe center of KhajurahoCompared to indian cities like Delhi, Khajuraho is a pretty relaxing place. We enjoyed to stay there, but at that time we didn't know that for one very good reason, we would probably be stuck in Khajuraho for a while: Mumbai was under attack by a terrorist organisation, close to al-Qaeda. Later, in the evening, we were informed that barricades and checkpoints were erected by the police on key roads, all over India. So, we expected transportation troubles between Khajuraho and Jhansi, our next destination. At that moment we had two alternatives: stay in Khajuraho for a while, or beeing driven to Agra by an aggressive swindling idiot. Finally two boys, Bhaiya and Kaushlendra - with which we became friends, told us that one of their uncles, could drive us to Jhansi. Drivers carrying tourists were allowed to pass the checkpoints without problems, so the next day we drove along many traffic queues without beeing controlled. The first driver (the aggressive idiot), knew that, so he was probably pretty angry, sitting in his car, he missed the deal of his life: avoiding all the queues and checkpoints and earning a lot of money for driving two stupid tourists to Agra, where he wanted to go anyway. Too bad, that we didn't see him in the queue. :-)http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E0aATcJKYLMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E0aATcJKYLM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2718.jpgAmber Fort in JaipurThe Amber Fort garden.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OFvCxgjhQaUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OFvCxgjhQaU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2666c.jpgHawa MahalAccording to "Wikipedia" - Its original intention was to allow royal ladies to observe everyday life in the street below without being seen, since they had to observe strict "purdah" (cover). The Hawa Mahal is an example of Rajputana architecture, which was strongly influenced by Mughal architecture. It has five storyes and is constructed of red and pink sandstone, highlighted with white quick lime. The side facing the street outside the palace complex has 953 small windows, and the breeze (hawa) which circulates through these windows gives the palace its name, and keeps it cool even in hot months. The entrance opens onto a courtyard with a double-storied building on three sides, and one on the eastern wing with three more stories, which is just one room wide. There are no stairs to reach the upper floors, only ramps.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SSQpP7hPq1ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SSQpP7hPq1o/fit=1000x1000/MG-2666.jpgHawa MahalHawa Mahal, the Palace of Winds was contstructed in 1799 in the old town of Jaipur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AfzdyAe_KTUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AfzdyAe_KTU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2341.jpgDrying laundry in VaranasiMost of the time the laundry is dried on the steps of a ghat. There are nearly 100 ghats in Varanasi and they are all linked together. Every ghat has a purpose: most of them are used for bathing, some for washing, for rituals and some ghats for cremations, like the ghat of Manikarnika - probably the most well-known in Varanasi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yY7EOrfZwnohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yY7EOrfZwno/fit=1000x1000/MG-2348.jpgGanges River in VaranasiFor some Varanasi is known to be the oldest city in the world. Actually it is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. Once the american writer Mark Twain wrote that Varanasi "..is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together."http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000emiivj36SpYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000emiivj36SpY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2359.jpgWomen selling flowers in VaranasiWomen selling flowers along a busy street of Varanasi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000u5TXNr9vulMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000u5TXNr9vulM/fit=1000x1000/MG-2402.jpgDhamek Stupa in SarnathAccording to "Wikipedia" - ...the Dhamek Stupa is said to mark the spot of a deer park (Rishipattana) where the Buddha gave the first sermon to his five disciples after attaining enlightenment, "revealing his Eightfold Path leading to nirvana". The stupa was enlarged on six occasions but the upper part is still unfinished. While visiting Sarnath in 640 AD, Xuanzang recorded that the colony had over 1,500 priests and the main stupa was nearly 300 feet (91 m) high.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OKThEEWE.0ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OKThEEWE.0g/fit=1000x1000/MG-2421.jpgGanges River in VaranasiTo reach the opposite bank of the Ganges you can take a boat or walk across the pontoon bridge which leads, among others, to the Ramnagar fort.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000x3aCBL19zX0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000x3aCBL19zX0/fit=1000x1000/MG-2748.jpgOld DelhiThe time you stay in cities like Old Delhi, depends principally on how much tolerance and curiosity you have for it. Walking through Delhi can be very nerve-racking for first-time visitors: you have to endure swarms of people, heavy traffic and the smog caused by it. Old Delhi is very dirty, most areas looks like a garbage dumping site and the poors left behind - and there are many - live in very inhuman conditions. But despite all the misery that surrounded us, most of the people we met, were very friendly ... actually i made worse experiences in my own country. This photo was taken on our way to "Jami Masjid", India's largest mosque.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SDdH.lOufkYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SDdH.lOufkY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2414.jpgCrowdy street in VaranasiAfter exploring Sarnath, we get back to Varanasi. The sunlight was fading as i took this street life photo. At that precise moment i thought back of calmly Sarnath.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bhYpmrvLl4khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bhYpmrvLl4k/fit=1000x1000/MG-2688.jpgChandra Mahal Palace in JaipurAlthough the royal family of Jaipur resides in the Chandra Mahal Palace, a large part of the City Palace complex - including the Maharaja Sawai Mansingh Museum, is open to the public.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003crEMwlfabshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003crEMwlfabs/fit=1000x1000/MG-2741.jpgJal Mahal in JaipurOn the way back to our guesthouse in Jaipur we stopped at the Jal Mahal, also called the Water Palace.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bXxhkceT3lEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bXxhkceT3lE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2444.jpgBoat on Ganges River in VaranasiCollective wedding ceremonies were held at the Ganges riverbank, a lot of guests came and left the event by boat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ntLdDDyNVCchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ntLdDDyNVCc/fit=1000x1000/MG-2449.jpgVaranasi during a wedding ceremonyBride and bridegroom were wearing very fancy clothes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KCNFNSqr8rAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KCNFNSqr8rA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2460.jpgVaranasi during a wedding ceremonyAs i was bend over to pick up my camera bag, the water reached my shoes and my trousers. The wedding ceremonies were over, the dirt on the ghat stairs ...and the absent-minded people standing around there, were flushed away by water.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OUBkX5Wg8oUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OUBkX5Wg8oU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2300.jpgGanges River in VaranasiVaranasi is one of the holiest place in India which attracts more than 1000000 Hindu pilgrims each year. The city of Varanasi is also known to be one of the most important pilgrimage site for buddhists. In the background you can see the Dasaswamedh ghat, the most crowded and animated ghat in Varanasi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005u0HmazTws8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005u0HmazTws8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2321.jpgBoat at a ghat in VaranasiOne of the best ways to see colorful Varanasi is to take one of the boats early in the morning.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NPfjfnerJH8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NPfjfnerJH8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2587.jpgTaj MahalIn Jhansi we realized that there was absolutely nothing do, except to book a train to Agra as fast as possible. But at last we had a very adventerous time at the Jhansi railway station, that we didn't regret at all. The photo was taken from the Agra Fort, at the background you can see blurry Taj Mahal.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SFOCN7adGuQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SFOCN7adGuQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2737.jpgAmber Fort in JaipurOnce Jaigarh Fort was reputated for its foundry, providing the artillery for the Kuchwaha Rajputs, like the Jaivana, an extraordinary piece of artillery and the biggest canon on wheels ever made, with a barrel weighing about 50 tons. In contradiction to other Rajput clans, the Kuchwaha didn't fought back the invading Moghuls. Both, the Kuchwaha and the Moghuls, Hindus and Muslims formed some very important alliances.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VpCClbgf4rAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VpCClbgf4rA/fit=1000x1000/MG-2330.jpgCruising Ganges in VaranasiOur ferryman cruising over the Ganges. The boat trip gave us a pleasant impression to see how life is lived here every morning.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kE.Rx1OKWDIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kE.Rx1OKWDI/fit=1000x1000/MG-2742.jpgJal Mahal in JaipurThe architectural creation of Jal Mahal, was influenced by Rajput and Moghul work of art. The wonderful palace is located in the Man Sagar Lake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000033f4_3bG1sYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000033f4_3bG1sY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2326.jpgBoat at a ghat in VaranasiAccording to "Wikipedia" - the term "ghat" refers to a series of steps leading down to a body of water. In Bengali-speaking regions, this set of stairs can lead down to something as small as a pond or as large as a major river. In English- and/or Hindi-speaking areas "ghats" refers to the areas, in the holy river-side cities like Haridwar, Varanasi where stairs exist to access the Ganges River. The numerous significant ghats along the Ganges are known generally as the "Varanasi ghats" and the "ghats of the Ganges"http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000PT8fK_Yz4chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000PT8fK_Yz4c/fit=1000x1000/MG-2353.jpgPeople standin in Ganges River in VaranasiAlthough the man on the right looks like a businessman using a mobile phone, he was just wiping his ear with his finger. I know, stupid photo description, but there are still friends asking me who he was calling in the middle of the Ganges River :-)http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IbAM.5Fjj8chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IbAM.5Fjj8c/fit=1000x1000/MG-2415.jpgCrowdy street in VaranasiFor many people cities like Varanasi are places to avoid. As in every poor country, Varanasi is more or less dirty, you will probably encounter rude or nasty people or contract a very bad illness. It's certainly more save to stay at home, but you will not experience the life sensations from such places through your sense perceptions, you will neither see the colors nor smell the odors that surrounds cities like Varanasi.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CDVlkXL4mZghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CDVlkXL4mZg/fit=1000x1000/MG-2427.jpgVaranasi during a wedding ceremonyAs we came back to Varanasi in the evening we noticed that something very important was going on. A lot of soon-to-be married couples, their friends and relatives - like this beautiful young woman, but also curious people and tourists where gathered at the Ganges riverbank.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008cimUoubcnUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008cimUoubcnU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2456.jpgVaranasi during a wedding ceremonyDuring the wedding ceremonies the bride wears a saree. In earlier times they were woven by hand and the best were made of silk. Traditional sarees are still produced but they are more expensive as machine-made sarees... and it is said that the best sarees are made of Varanasi silk.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_YhxNGyqCjQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_YhxNGyqCjQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2618.jpgMarket in AgraAnother pleasant market place surrounding the Taj Mahal.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Oa0xLBU52LEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Oa0xLBU52LE/fit=1000x1000/MG-3828.jpgBromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkView inside the Bromo volcano, one of the most active volcanoes of Java.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BDRGt0Z_H7Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BDRGt0Z_H7I/fit=1000x1000/MG-3767.jpgBromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkAfter an adventerous stay on the malaysian side of Borneo we decided to take the airplane to Java. The Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park was our first choice. To get there, we took an international flight from Kuala Lumpur to Surabaya. In Surabaya, the second largest city of Indonesia, you can take the "Patas" bus to Probolinggo, the nearest town to the National Park. Finally drive on the Ngadisari Route to reach Cemoro Lawang, the closest village to the volcanoes. The viewpoint of Mount Penanjakan is generally the best place to appreciate the view over the Tengger caldera at sunrise.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000usM.Tq4UAO8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000usM.Tq4UAO8/fit=1000x1000/MG-3836.jpgLocal people at Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkAfter an exhausting stair-climb to the top of Mount Bromo, you can walk along the crater's rim. A young man is wearing a scarf over his mouth to avoid breathing to much sulfur gases.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tjN6BPn6qzkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tjN6BPn6qzk/fit=1000x1000/MG-3847.jpgHorseman at Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkYou can take a horse for an uphill ride to Mount Bromo if you are too lazy to walk all the way up. But anyway, you have to climb over 200 steps to the top by feet, on your own.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008fhYST4ijPchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008fhYST4ijPc/fit=1000x1000/MG-3873.jpgCemoro LawangMost of the people living in villages neighboring the Tengger Caldera, are farmers.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.oWgFAimtxUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.oWgFAimtxU/fit=1000x1000/MG-3897.jpgCemoro LawangThe fields are amazing because of the big-sized vegetables and their plantation arrangements.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000050BhLP3XiWwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000050BhLP3XiWw/fit=1000x1000/MG-3916.jpgView from Cemoro LawangView over the caldera and steaming Mt Bromo. I took this photo on the "off the beaten track", few minutes away from Cemerah Indah Hotel.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Kc8qscku2EAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Kc8qscku2EA/fit=1000x1000/MG-3914.jpgView from Cemoro LawangThere are other views over the volcanoes worth to see when you take off the beaten tracks. Follow the main street in Cemoro Lawang until you arrive at the Cemara Indah Hotel. This Hotel is located on the rim of the caldera, giving you a spectacular view of the steaming crater. Look on your right, and you will see a path leading upwards through many fields. Follow the path as long as you want, enjoy the view on the left side of the path or talk to the farmers on the right side.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yfeo0mcI2Nshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yfeo0mcI2Ns/fit=1000x1000/MG-3824.jpgBromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkAccording to "Wikipedia" - The national park is named after its two mountains, Mount Semeru (the highest in Java at 3,676 metres), Mount Bromo (the most popular) and the Tengger people who inhabit the area. Mount Semeru also known as Mahameru ("Great Mountain"), is one of Indonesia's most active volcanoes. What stands out most about this mountain is the fact that it erupts periodically (and very reliably so). Every 20 minutes or so, the volcano belches out a huge cloud of steam and smoke, sometimes interspersed with ash and stones. Climbing Mount Semeru requires some planning and a permit from the national park authority. The mountain is often closed due to its highly active nature. Mount Bromo (2,329 metres) is easily recognized as the entire top has been blown off and the crater inside constantly belches white sulphurous smoke. It sits inside the massive Tengger caldera (diameter approximately 10 km), surrounded by the Laut Pasir (Sea of Sand) of fine volcanic sand. The overall effect is unsettlingly unearthly, especially when compared to the lush green valleys all around the caldera.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SaiAkOATMfAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SaiAkOATMfA/fit=1000x1000/MG-3853.jpgHorseman at Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National ParkThe horse guides start their day very early in the morning. On holidays or in the tourist season they can earn about 50000Rp (4Euro) per day, and most of them have an additional job.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000t8IOn5COYWQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000t8IOn5COYWQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-3880.jpgGirl posing in Cemoro LawangA girl posing in front of one of many impressive vegetable gardens.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hrpm6F1nW5Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hrpm6F1nW5I/fit=1000x1000/MG-3933.jpgView from Cemoro LawangMount Bromo and the "Pura Luhur Poten" Hindu Temple located on the Segara Wedi sand plain at the foot of the volcano.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Og99PimgqYQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Og99PimgqYQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-3934.jpgView from Cemoro LawangThe 16km wide Tengger Caldera is one of Indonesia's most spectacular volcanic massif with steaming Mount Bromo, one of Java's most active volcanoes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A66fxUs66bghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A66fxUs66bg/fit=1000x1000/MG-4000.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenI met this man while i was walking steeply upwards, leading to the active volcano of Kawah Ijen. I don't remember his name, but he was very friendly: carrying a basket of about 90 kilo on his shoulder, he asked me if he might guide me the way down to the crater.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003R4ewwRJ25Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003R4ewwRJ25M/fit=1000x1000/MG-4030.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenKawah Ijen is well-known for its mining operations in which sulfur is hand gathered in large baskets and carried out of the crater. The workers have to wake up very early in the morning and most of them will walk the 4km up to the crater and down to the lake... two or three times per day. This guy just reached the crater's rim.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Bdo2hLSSaVQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Bdo2hLSSaVQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-4119.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenThe miners walk up the steep slopes of the crater, leaving the view of the largest acid lake on earth behind them. This is the most exhausting part. Depending on the weight, each worker earn between 5-10 dollar in one day.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003AGz0XU7jD0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003AGz0XU7jD0/fit=1000x1000/MG-4173.jpgManangWe rested a couple of days in Manang, one of the biggest city in Java.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NVdmVod_r14https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NVdmVod_r14/fit=1000x1000/MG-3950.jpgMan at Cemoro LawangAccording to "Wikipedia" - The area in and around the park is inhabited by the Tengger people, one of the few significant Hindu communities remaining on the island of Java. The local religion is a remnant from the Majapahit era and therefore quite similar to that on Bali but with even more animist elements. The Tengger people are believed to be descendents of the Majapahit empire and were driven into the hills after mass arrival in the area of Muslim Madurese in the 19th century. One of the cultural tourism activities in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is the Yadnya Kasada Ceremony. The ceremony is celebrated every full moon. During this time, the local Tengger people will bring half of their cattle and harvest and throw it into the crater of Mount Bromo to thank the creator of lives. The activities of this ceremony is centered in the Hindu Poten temple, located in the Tengger Sand Sea just beside Mount Bromo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NzY7VCL_CJkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NzY7VCL_CJk/fit=1000x1000/MG-4247.jpgBorobudurIndonesian students standing near the Stupas of Borobudur, a buddhist heritage site of Indonesia, located in central Java.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000i64UzGMfYmshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000i64UzGMfYms/fit=1000x1000/MG-4261.jpgStudents posing in BorobudurWe met a lot of indonesian students in Indonesia and sometimes we took photos of each other. From all the people i've met around the globe, the Javanese were one of the most nice and open minded people i've met.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RDysc6c8bH4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RDysc6c8bH4/fit=1000x1000/MG-4308.jpgJasmine plant in Taman Sari GardenJasmine plants are still growing in one of the Taman Sari gardens. Jasmine is famous for its flowers, used to make "Jasmine Tea".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000J3rK3etkZughttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000J3rK3etkZug/fit=1000x1000/MG-3975.jpgBoys posing in JampitA lot of children were playing with their kites late in the evening in Jampit. In the background you can also see some original dutch houses, today occupied by the villagers.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HtnQ3dORjS0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HtnQ3dORjS0/fit=1000x1000/MG-4038.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenFinally we arrived at the famous extracting place where miners collect the sulfur. We are permanently enveloped by a stinking air, which makes breathing nearly impossible. Welcome to the yellow hell :-)http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000un.ApgwTFF8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000un.ApgwTFF8/fit=1000x1000/MG-4039.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenThe sulfur steam is collected by pipes in which sulfur is condensing in a red liquid dripping on the ground before solidified into pure sulfur. After solidification, the miners are using metal bars to cut down chunks of sulfur.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OpBBQLQsHwUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OpBBQLQsHwU/fit=1000x1000/MG-4080.jpgSulfur mining in Kawah IjenEverytime when the wind was changing direction, letting the toxic fog envelope me, breathing was killing me. So it took me more than one attempt to take a picture of a close overview of the mining site.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006LPHgt2UBVUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006LPHgt2UBVU/fit=1000x1000/MG-4248.jpgBorobudurAccording to "Wikipedia" - There is no written record of who built Borobudur or why it was built. It was likely founded as a religious site in the 8th century at the peak of the Sailendra dynasty in central Java. The construction is thought to have taken a period of 75 years and completed in about 825 AD... ...Borobudur lay abandoned and hidden for centuries under layers of volcanic ash and thick jungle growth. Nobody knows for sure why it was abandoned although the popular theory is that the local population just became disinterested when there were mass conversions to Islam in the 15th century. It was never forgotten entirely though with folklore ensuring that stories of the great monument lived on.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A5.ztO0Qjp4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A5.ztO0Qjp4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8039.jpgThree boys at Samosir Island, Lake TobaThree brothers lazing on a selfmade float in Samosir. Samosir Island is only reachable by ferry boat from the small village of Parapat, which, for its part, is best reachable by bus from Medan.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000USId86m70eohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000USId86m70eo/fit=1000x1000/MG-4257.jpgBorobudurBorobudur has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991. The ancient site is best reachable from Yogyakarta.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FSjOohmw1ukhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FSjOohmw1uk/fit=1000x1000/MG-4271.jpgBorobudurThere are many niches with Buddha statues on each side of the temple.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gW7adN_sMIIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gW7adN_sMII/fit=1000x1000/MG-8105.jpgView from Pusuk Buhit, Samosir Island at Lake TobaOn half way to the summit the weather started changing. While we were walking, Joe told me that the Batak people are an ethnic group living in the north of Sumatra. As many Batak, Joe was traditional in his beliefs, despite the fact that most of the locals living in Samosir are predominantly Christians. As it started raining, Joe told me that his ancestors were cannibals. I felt a little bit uncomfortable :-).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nOTBLe4aQbghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nOTBLe4aQbg/fit=1000x1000/MG-8140.jpgSamosir Island at Lake TobaAnd the descent from the summit, which took us approximately one hour. On that day the ground was very slippery, and the view over the lake very cloudy.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EmQM42Ebx7ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EmQM42Ebx7g/fit=1000x1000/MG-8211.jpgRice farming on Samosir Island at Lake TobaA man was plowing a rice terrace along a road i drove on with a rented motorcycle.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008nB_GHt7mUkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008nB_GHt7mUk/fit=1000x1000/MG-8343.jpgGirls posing in Banda AcehLulu, Nora, Rosi, Siti, four young women and a cockatoo i met in a shop, along a main street in Banda Aceh, northern Sumatra.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000igJ_2b6qBDMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000igJ_2b6qBDM/fit=1000x1000/MG-8409.jpgBeach in Pulau WehOne of the last photos i have taken before leaving Pulau Weh. I left Weh Island in noon, anticipating to catch my flight at the airport of Banda Aceh. As i arrived at the ferry harbor i took the next ferry, but i already knew that i would be short on time for my return flight to Kuala Lumpur. So, before the ferry platform was pulled down to the wharf of Ulee Lheue, i prepared myself for the run of my life. Before the platform touched the ground i was already on the other side making the ferry personal very angry. Then i had to find a taxi driver very quick to reach the airport timely. I asked for the price and for the first time so far, i didn't negociate. I was in hurry, the taxi driver asked me 100000 Rp, i told him that i would give him 200000 Rp if i would be on time at the airport. The driver drove me to the airport in a record time, and as we arrived at the airport entrance, he started honking like a maniac at the car checkpoint, because of the cars in front of us. I guess he wanted me to catch my flight on time :-).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008m8fPZIxtJwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008m8fPZIxtJw/fit=1000x1000/MG-8052.jpgRicefield on Samosir Island at Lake TobaAccording to "Wikipedia" - At 630 km², Samosir is the largest island within an island, and the fifth largest lake island in the world. It also contains two smaller lakes, Lake Sidihoni and Lake Aek Natonang. Across the lake on the east from the island lies Uluan Peninsula. The island is linked to the mainland of Sumatra on its western part by a narrow land connecting the town of Pangururan on Samosir and Tele on mainland Sumatra. Tele consequently offers one of the best views of Lake Toba and Samosir Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aMlaVRCynKQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aMlaVRCynKQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-8071.jpgDog in Ambarita located on Samosir Island, Lake TobaI saw this puppy dog restrained to a plant near its owners house, between touristic Tuktuk and the village of Ambarita.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E76CnpNCns4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E76CnpNCns4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8092.jpgRice farming on Samosir Island at Lake TobaView over Lake Toba with the guesthouses and hotels on the shore, and a man ploughing his ricefield.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000008W4dgIn3yAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000008W4dgIn3yA/fit=1000x1000/MG-8094.jpgRice farming on Samosir Island at Lake TobaA boy and his father on a flooded piece of land used for rice farming. According to "Wikipedia" - A paddy field is a flooded parcel of arable land used for growing rice and other semiaquatic crops. Paddy fields are a typical feature of rice farming in east, south and southeast Asia. Paddies can be built into steep hillsides as terraces and adjacent to depressed or steeply sloped features such as rivers or marshes. They can require a great deal of labor and materials to create, and need large quantities of water for irrigation. Flooded paddies provide an ideal environment for rice cultivation and discourage the growth of many weeds.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ohxUo27D2rAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ohxUo27D2rA/fit=1000x1000/MG-8242.jpgSamosir Island at Lake TobaLake Toba and its island, Samosir, were created 75000 years ago by a super volcano. According to "Wikipedia", the eruption of a super volcano is thousands of times larger than most historic volcanic eruptions. Supervolcanoes can occur when magma in the Earth rises into the crust from a hotspot but is unable to break through the crust. Pressure builds in a large and growing magma pool until the crust is unable to contain the pressure. They can also form at convergent plate boundaries (for example, Toba) and continental hotspot locations (for example, Yellowstone). The Discovery Channel highlighted six known supervolcanoes: Yellowstone, Long Valley, and Valles Caldera in the United States; Lake Toba, North Sumatra, Indonesia; Taupo Volcano, North Island, New Zealand; and Aira Caldera, Kagoshima Prefecture, Kyu-shu-, Japan. Although there are only a handful of Quaternary supervolcanoes, supervolcanic eruptions typically cover huge areas with lava and volcanic ash and cause a long-lasting change to weather (such as the triggering of a small ice age) sufficient to threaten species with extinction.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002ClW22f4OC8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002ClW22f4OC8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8358.jpgFamily on the beach at Pulau WehBefore flying home i took a ferry from Banda Aceh to Pulau Weh, a volcanic island. I stayed at Freddies Santai Sumur Tiga, one of the best resort i have been so far. Charmed by the location, i decided to stay there for longer.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dy5m_1BSoYchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dy5m_1BSoYc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6756.jpgMonks posing in a monastery in Muang Ngoi NeuaFour young monks posing in front of their monastery in Muang Ngoi Neua.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sPS9kShSF_Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sPS9kShSF_E/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6962.jpgPha That Luang Stupa in VientianeAccording to "Wikipedia" - Pha That Luang was destroyed by the Thai invasion in 1828, which left it heavily damaged and left abandoned. It was not until 1900 that the French restored to its original design based on the detailed drawings from 1867 by the French architect and explorer Louis Delaporte.[3] However the first attempt to restore it was unsuccessful and it had to be redesigned and then reconstructed in the 1930s.[3] During the Franco-Thai War, Pha That Luang was heavily damaged during a Thai air raid. After the end of World War II, Pha That Luang was reconstructed.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XsjRWeY4c2chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XsjRWeY4c2c/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6575.jpgOn the Mekong River, cruising from Houay Xay to Luang PrabangAfter one month passed in New Zealand we took the airplane to Bangkok, followed by three or for days in Chiang Mai, where i became sick due to the well working asian air cons. After my recovery we were driven to Houay Xay, the Lao border where we arranged a two day slow boat journey to Luang Prabang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000F_u7yb55ljQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000F_u7yb55ljQ/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6583.jpgOn the Mekong River, cruising from Houay Xay to Luang PrabangIn 2005, the two day journey with the longboat from Houay Xai too Luang Prabang, including an overnight at Pak Beng, was pretty uncomfortable: we had the choice between old unfixed wooden seats or inside the boat, lying, near the bad smelling and very noisy engine.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000q6lpouj.57shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000q6lpouj.57s/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6960.jpgPha That Luang Entrance in VientianeThe entrance gate to Pha That Luang, the gold-covered stupa of Vientiane.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BKZrWwQ.AQ8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BKZrWwQ.AQ8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6944.jpgWoman selling bamboo baskets in VientianeA woman selling bamboo baskets in which rice, mainly glutinous rice, can be steamed.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000aX_9k7sQe3ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000aX_9k7sQe3o/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6617.jpgOffering food for monks in Luang PrabangThe monks walk in a line, the oldest first.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WL1v1KgZCUghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WL1v1KgZCUg/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7005.jpgBoys sitting near an entrance of a statue in Xieng Khouan, called Buddha Park in VientianeBoys sitting near a giant pumpkin statue's exit, which ends and the top of the statue. Seen in "Xieng Khouan" Buddha Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lJZOnUH4v9Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lJZOnUH4v9U/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6679.jpgWomen selling wares in Luang PrabangWomen selling their wares along a main street in Luang Prabang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FEuRkNxx3Jghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FEuRkNxx3Jg/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6872.jpgTham Chang Caves in Vang ViengClimbing the stairs to the Tham Chang caves in Vang Vieng.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007dQcg77kq4shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007dQcg77kq4s/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6724.jpgGirl posing in Nong KhiawPortrait of a girl i met in a small grocery shop in Nong Khiaw.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008lmWMKU7.Ckhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008lmWMKU7.Ck/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6811.jpgKids posing in Ban NaChildren posing in Ban Na village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000b7IgMYL6MQQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000b7IgMYL6MQQ/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6613.jpgWat Xieng Thong monastery in Luang PrabangWhile we arrived in Luang Prabang we were adressed by some funny tuk tuk drivers. We were very tired so we took the first one. The engine run very oddly and a couple of minutes later it was completely out of order. So we took the next tuk tuk driver who drove us to a nice guesthouse owned by a very strange guy who was pasting self-portraits with small price labels on the walls surrounding the reception... The monastery "Wat Xieng Thong" shown on the photo, is the most important monastery in Luang Prabang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tfknbfxyB4khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tfknbfxyB4k/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6615.jpgOffering food for monks in Luang PrabangThe next morning i missed the wake up call to see the monks receiving alms. While i took the camera and run out of the guesthouse, the monks were already walking along the street.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Q4oD0ocwbPghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Q4oD0ocwbPg/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6616.jpgOffering food for monks in Luang PrabangThe morning collection of food, called "tak bat" is traditionally offered by the locals.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000x0WIxgqBC9shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000x0WIxgqBC9s/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6634.jpgLocals sitting near a fire in Ban Xang Hai also called Whisky villageBan Xang Hai is better known in the travel guides as "Whisky village" where "Lao Lao" rice whisky is produced by the local people.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mf0B7OBx4Mshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mf0B7OBx4Ms/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6638.jpgMonk posing in Ban Xang Hai also called Whisky villageBan Xang Hai is located about 29km from Luang Prabang. Most of the tourists make a stop here before continuing their boat ride to the Pak Ou caves.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.E4Q3XztCLkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.E4Q3XztCLk/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6643.jpgPak Ou caves seen from the Mekong riverThe lower Pak Ou caves, seen from the Mekong river. The caves are famous for containing hundreds of buddha statues.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_HtXMmMGLzAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_HtXMmMGLzA/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6660.jpgView on Mekong River, seen from the Pak Ou caves entranceThe Mekong river, seen from a step which leads to the lower Pak Ou caves. The Mekong ist the 12th longest river in the world with a length varying between 4300 and 4900 km.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sfDBmu30fOwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sfDBmu30fOw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6715.jpgChicken and Pig in Nong Khiaw villageA street scenery in Nong Kiau. Chickens a pig and beach slides.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000T9lXOHTM9Swhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000T9lXOHTM9Sw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6731.jpgKids playing in a street in Nong KhiawLate in the morning in Nong Kiaw, i saw this children playing with a skipping rope.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iymrV7EicFUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iymrV7EicFU/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6742.jpgWomen washing clothes in Muang Ngoi NeuaWomen washing their clothes at a river bank in Muang Ngoi Neua.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000v2vTDy.1Zi0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000v2vTDy.1Zi0/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6754.jpgKid beeing washed in Muang Ngoi NeuaI saw this woman washing her child, while i was eating in a restaurant on the other side of the road. So i took the camera, went across the street, and asked her if i could take a photo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ky_U1iLpX1khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ky_U1iLpX1k/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6760.jpgNam Ou River in Muang Ngoi NeuaIn 1964 the United States of America started an intensive nine year bombing campaign against Laos. Muang Ngoi Neua was also heavily bombed, forcing the inhabitants to escape into local caves.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lpnwFClQwcwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lpnwFClQwcw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6761.jpgNam Ou River in Muang Ngoi NeuaAccording to "Wikipedia" - As of 2008, Laos is the most heavily bombed country, per capita, in the world. An average of one B-52 bomb-load was dropped on Laos every eight minutes, 24-hours-a-day, between 1964 and 1973.[22] Due to the particularly heavily impact of cluster bombs during this war, Laos was a strong advocate of the Convention on Cluster Munitions to ban the weapons and assist victims, and hosted the First Meeting of States Parties to the convention in November 2010.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tm4.16w1YE0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tm4.16w1YE0/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6782.jpgFamily seen while walking from Muang Ngoi Neua to Ban NaA family sitting beside the path leading from Muang Ngoi Neua to Ban Na.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000E3WVg6wTMHMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000E3WVg6wTMHM/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6788.jpgWater buffalo seen while walking from Muang Ngoi Neua to Ban NaA water buffalo standing in a rice field located a few minutes away from Ban Na village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GMVfbHlJ6Gshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GMVfbHlJ6Gs/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6809.jpgBamboo recipients seen in Ban Na villageIn Ban Na we observed that we were the only tourists in the village. We were offered a glas of rice wine by a very nice man and we regret that we have to leave Ban Na so quickly.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YWEhQMgqxGkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YWEhQMgqxGk/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6820.jpgStreet scene in Muang Ngoi NeuaThe photo shows the main street of Muang Ngoi Neua.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009PTXZc_Q42ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009PTXZc_Q42g/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6827.jpgKids playing near the river in Muang Ngoi NeuaI saw this two kids playing in a small wooden trailer charged with Lao beer, just before taking the boat back to Luang Prabang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WlF0TsMOl78https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WlF0TsMOl78/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6837.jpgHo Pha Bang monastery in Luang Prabang"Haw Pha Bang", also known as "Wat Ho Pha Bang" is a temple, located in the royal palace complex. The temple was primarily built to enshrine "Phra Bang" the most famous Buddha image in Laos.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dVfcctL7.Z8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dVfcctL7.Z8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6867.jpgChildren posing in Vang ViengChildren having fun while posing for the camera in Vang Vieng.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005y7Mshz.JOchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005y7Mshz.JOc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6911.jpgMen washing at Nam Song riverbankTwo men washing in the river water of Nam Song River.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RSy.hNljHfIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RSy.hNljHfI/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6913.jpgVang Vieng and Nam Song RiverAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Nam Song River is a small river in Laos that flows through the town of Vang Vieng. It is a popular tourist destination as many people enjoy seeing the Laotian countryside while going down the river in the inner tube of a tractor tyre or in a kayak. The river is surrounded by striking karst rock formations.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KxKkDxYmO9chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KxKkDxYmO9c/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6943.jpgThat Dam Stupa in VientianeThat Dam, which means black Stupa, is located in the middle of a roundabout in Vientiane, the capital of Laos.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LPIdn9KMDUchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LPIdn9KMDUc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6956.jpgStudents walking near Pha That Luang, VientianeStudents walking on the pavement of Pha That Luang area in Vientiane.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HUujlK6Oimchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HUujlK6Oimc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-7011.jpgLaos"Xieng Khouan" best known as Buddha Park is located 25km near Vientiane and worth a visit alone to admire some of the bizarrely shaped sculptures. The park includes a collection of over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues of all models and sizes. On the photo you can see a reclining Buddha statue which is 120 m long.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ruiXnJPDoGwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ruiXnJPDoGw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6639.jpgBoys posing in Ban Xang Hai also called Whisky villageTree boys playing with marbles in a street.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rUrV9dKT96ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rUrV9dKT96g/fit=1000x1000/MG-3229.jpgKuchingKuching is the administrative capital of Sarawak. According to "Wikipedia" - Numerous natural attractions including National Parks, notably the Bako National Park and the Kuching Wetlands National Park as well as the Semenggoh Wildlife Center which operates an orang utan orphanage and rehabilitation program are popular attractions near Kuching. Also, available near Kuching are the Gunung Gading National Park and the Kubah National Park. Located about 40-minutes drive from Kuching is Santubong, a prominent beach resort area home to numerous world-class beach resorts, the Damai beach and the Sarawak Cultural Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Cj6kJw5E.QYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Cj6kJw5E.QY/fit=1000x1000/MG-3538.jpgSunset at Bako National ParkSunset at Bako National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yue14eBmzhQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yue14eBmzhQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-3626.jpgSarawak River and Gunung Santubong mountainSarawak River and Gunung Santubong with clouds covering it's peak.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XF5RhnHyUJ8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XF5RhnHyUJ8/fit=1000x1000/MG-3633.jpgFishermen on Sarawak RiverTwo fishermen on Sarawak River, Santubong Peninsula.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000X4ZEvGZ93mohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000X4ZEvGZ93mo/fit=1000x1000/MG-3677.jpgProboscis monkey, seen on a river cruise on Santubong River.Proboscis monkey sitting on a branch and eating leaves. Photo taken on the Santubong River cruise. Santubong River is one of the Sarawak River branches.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GBxxmyN1iQQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GBxxmyN1iQQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2854.jpgFlight over BorneoIn 2009 we decided to travel to the malaysian part of Borneo. After a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Miri, in northern Sarawak, we took a second flight to Bario.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000c2TD0BoI6REhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000c2TD0BoI6RE/fit=1000x1000/MG-2911.jpgAlong a street in Bario VillageBario is a village located in the Kelabit Highlands of Borneo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GuCaa2eLDSYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GuCaa2eLDSY/fit=1000x1000/MG-2943.jpgNepenthes, seen while walking from Bario to Pa'LunganOn the way from Bario to Pa'Lungan, John, our private guide, showed us some interesting plants like this Nepenthes, a carnivorous plant.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bPf4Hcnh9TQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bPf4Hcnh9TQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-2987.jpgWater buffalo, seen shortly before reaching Pa'LunganWater buffalos, a couple of minutes away from Pa'Lungan. Pa'Lungan is easily reachable by foot.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000012i1BWrxBPAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000012i1BWrxBPA/fit=1000x1000/MG-3003.jpgPa'Lungan VillageWe arrived in Bario late in the afternoon. Happy to have a rest, we fixed our moskito nets over our beds. Later, dinner was really good: we got cooked jungle furns and chicken wings while we were talking about scotch whisky with an irish guy, who tried to persuade us that irish whiskey is much more better.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zZY6ZxFuzrghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zZY6ZxFuzrg/fit=1000x1000/MG-3008.jpgPa'Lungan VillageOn the next morning i noticed that my eye was swollen. Although i had spread the moskitonet over my bed, i was bitten by a bloody bug, probably by a spider or by mites.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EAuDykX8Ljchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EAuDykX8Ljc/fit=1000x1000/MG-3019.jpgPraying mantis, seen while walking from Pa'Lungan to BarioOur guide, John, found this praying mantis on the way back to Bario.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001qwsv7WCJNkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001qwsv7WCJNk/fit=1000x1000/MG-3037.jpgStuck in the jungle, trying to reach BarioStill far away from Bario, we were supposed to be picked up by a boat in the morning, but nobody came. We had the choice to sleep in the jungle for one more night, or to dig out a boat which was no more seaworthy. As the jungle was infested by moskitos, we decided that it would be the best to go for plan b.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pUCMPBxOge8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pUCMPBxOge8/fit=1000x1000/MG-3039.jpgStuck in the jungle, trying to reach BarioJohn and our soon-to-be boat, after we had removed the mud on it.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000sJ1BscKS.Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000sJ1BscKS.Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-3041.jpgOn the way back to Bario by boatA couple of hours later - after we embarked into our own boat, the boat which was supposed to pick us up, arrived...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FlF5vue9n1khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FlF5vue9n1k/fit=1000x1000/MG-3045.jpgOn the way back to Bario by boatWe decided to keep our boat and to bring it back to Bario. We thought that there was perhaps somebody who could need it there.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.v5A_psN58Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.v5A_psN58M/fit=1000x1000/MG-3057.jpgOn the way back to Bario by boatJohn bailing the leacky boat with a deformed bucket.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uRmteQlf07Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uRmteQlf07A/fit=1000x1000/MG-3237.jpgWorkers in KuchingThese friendly men were constructing a house in Kuching.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000D4mvm3xaeZUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000D4mvm3xaeZU/fit=1000x1000/MG-3241.jpgStudents in KuchingStudents posing in Kuching.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007ry4KwCyYK4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007ry4KwCyYK4/fit=1000x1000/MG-3244.jpgFishing boats in KuchingColourful painted fishing boats in Kuching.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000M338O2k8xCUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000M338O2k8xCU/fit=1000x1000/MG-3252.jpgKuchingA boy sitting on a bronze dragon statue set along the Kuching waterfront. The Sarawak River separates the north and the south of Kuching.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000idKqWDeEbtAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000idKqWDeEbtA/fit=1000x1000/MG-3256.jpgKuchingA riverfront docking area in Kuching, just before sunset.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vxz1L_VkijYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vxz1L_VkijY/fit=1000x1000/MG-3367.jpgOrang Utan at Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation CentreThe Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is a recommended place to visit during your stay in Kuching. The Rehabilitation Centre was established to rescue Orangutans who were injured, to save orphaned baby Orangutans, or to release Orangutans from captivity. After reeducation, these Orangutans are reintroduced back into the wild.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000blCNFFoAgMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000blCNFFoAgM/fit=1000x1000/MG-3386.jpgOrang Utan at Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation CentreAccording to "Wikipedia" - Orangutans are among the most intelligent primates; they use a variety of sophisticated tools and construct elaborate sleeping nests each night from branches and foliage. The apes have been extensively studied for their learning abilities. There may even be distinctive cultures within populations. Field studies of the apes were pioneered by primatologist Birute Galdikas. Both orangutan species are considered to be Endangered, with the Sumatran orangutan being Critically Endangered. Human activities have caused severe declines in the populations and ranges of both species. Threats to wild orangutan populations include poaching, habitat destruction, and the illegal pet trade. Several conservation and rehabilitation organisations are dedicated to the survival of orangutans in the wild.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000am62FJ5EAD8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000am62FJ5EAD8/fit=1000x1000/MG-3371.jpgOrang Utan at Semenggoh Wildlife Rehabilitation CentreNowadays the expanding palm oil industry is contributing to the large-scale deforestation, which is the main cause for the decline of Orangutan populations.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.L4V2jtAve4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.L4V2jtAve4/fit=1000x1000/MG-3450.jpgBako National ParkBako National Park is the oldest National Park in Sarawak, Malaysia, containing a notable biological and landscape diversity.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FIv64nd7yNohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FIv64nd7yNo/fit=1000x1000/MG-3494.jpgTermites at Bako National ParkTermites swarming in Bako National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LOTv_mM7iY0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LOTv_mM7iY0/fit=1000x1000/MG-3505.jpgFishermen at Bako National ParkTwo fishermen hauling their net.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002fO1DTQagQkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002fO1DTQagQk/fit=1000x1000/MG-3591.jpgKuchingA couple looking on a big smoke cloud in Kuching.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IAomb.9gW5ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IAomb.9gW5g/fit=1000x1000/MG-3615.jpgKuchingA riverfront docking area in Kuching, just before sunset.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004fN8pp6K8Bchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004fN8pp6K8Bc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6239.jpgForest in RotoruaAccording to "Wikipedia" - Rotorua is also home to botanical gardens and historic architecture. Known as a spa town and major tourist resort since the 1800s, many of its buildings hint at this history. Government Gardens, close to the lakeshore at the eastern end of the town, are a particular point of pride. Another of Rotorua's attractions is mountain biking. Whakarewarewa Forest has been described as 'the Disneyland of mountain biking' and includes mountain bike trails, where the UCI Mountain Bike and Trials World Championships were held in August 2006.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oTaQY7.ZzLchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oTaQY7.ZzLc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6249.jpgLady Knox Geysir in RotoruaThe Lady Knox Geysir is located in the Wai-O-Tapu area, 27km south of Rotorua.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_Lo7Zxqu8Sohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_Lo7Zxqu8So/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6352.jpgCoromandelA street in Coromandel.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000niZ3y9eXU4Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000niZ3y9eXU4U/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6379.jpgAuckland with view on the SkytowerAuckland is the largest metropolitan city in New Zealand. In the background you can see the Skytower and the Centre Business District.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OomqIVjJTMwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OomqIVjJTMw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6405.jpgAuckland seen from the Auckland SkytowerView of Auckland, seen from the Auckland Sky Tower.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FY2pFvVD5t4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FY2pFvVD5t4/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5752.jpgHaast Pass driving on highway 6Still on the Haast Pass we took a rest along the State Highway 6 before continuing our drive from Makarora to Lake Matheson.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007F_PAXN3UzIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007F_PAXN3UzI/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5757.jpgLAndscape view along State highway 6Landscape scene along State Highway 6, close to the area where Makarora River feeds Wanaka Lake at its northern end.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000351i1VpvF8Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000351i1VpvF8M/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5385.jpgFrom Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook National ParkDriving from Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook National Park with view on Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook (3754m) on the left.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RY5iuR46QLchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RY5iuR46QLc/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5272.jpgChessboard at Catheral Square in ChristchurchThe famous oversized chessboard in Cathedral Square, Christchurch.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ygGl1rsOs.shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ygGl1rsOs.s/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5323.jpgChalice an the Christchurch CathedralThe Chalice, a large designed inverted cone, set in Cathedral Square, near the Christchurch Cathedral. Due to the 2011 earthquake, the badly damaged cathedral was starting to be demolished in late march 2012.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kIgPSVNUIrghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kIgPSVNUIrg/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5408.jpgNear Tasman GlacierAccording to "Wikipedia" - Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is in the South Island of New Zealand near the town of Twizel. Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain and Aoraki/Mount Cook village lie within the park. The area was gazetted as a national park in October 1953 and consists of reserves that were established as early as 1887 to protect the area's significant vegetation and landscape.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mEui2bjnWxUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mEui2bjnWxU/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5397.jpgNear Tasman GlacierView on the valley from the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint .http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000c.LUkVh55UYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000c.LUkVh55UY/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5401.jpgTop of Tasman Glacier ViewpointOn the top of Tasman Glacier Viewpoint, with view on the glacier lake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iutQGJUECy8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iutQGJUECy8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5445.jpgOtago PeninsulaOtago Peninsula with Taiaroa lighthouse in the background. The peninsula is also famous for its Northern Royal Albatrosses.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Z17OBF_TlCUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Z17OBF_TlCU/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5447.jpgOtago PeninsulaOtago Peninsula, a couple of minutes away from Portobello.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j1ObWOQFJekhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j1ObWOQFJek/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5456.jpgChurch of OtagoThe Presbyterian Church of Otago, set in the city center of Dunedin.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000n1l92VeE.4chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000n1l92VeE.4c/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5467.jpgNugget Point with view on the lighthouseAccording to "Wikipedia" - Nugget Point is one of the most iconic landforms on the Otago coast. Located at the northern end of the Catlins coast down the road from Kaka Point, this steep headland has a lighthouse at its tip, surrounded by rocky islets (The Nuggets). The point is home to many seabirds, including penguins, gannets and spoonbills, and a large breeding colony of fur seals.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CdVr2JMfu3Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CdVr2JMfu3E/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5492.jpgSurat Bay set in the CatlinsThe scenic reserve of Surat Bay was named after "Surat", a sailing ship which was wrecked on these coasts in 1874.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002Vb3bkWM.qwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002Vb3bkWM.qw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5518.jpgRomahapaSheeps and windswept trees standing in a meadow near the Catlins coast at Romahapa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000o3QXKSDQNe4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000o3QXKSDQNe4/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5629.jpgDamselflies seen while heading Te AnauOn the way to Te Anau i saw this two damselflies sitting on a dry blossom. The red one is the male.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008P9o.1ouNuMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008P9o.1ouNuM/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5701.jpgLake Wakatipu in QueenstownView on Queenstown with Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range behind.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000X32W7l2Juaghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000X32W7l2Juag/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5703.jpgSeagul and Tss Earnslaw in QueenstownA seagull and the TSS Earnslaw steamship in the harbour of Queenstown.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UygvIeeAswkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UygvIeeAswk/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5711.jpgWakatipu Beach in QueenstownWakatipu beach and the TSS Earnslaw with the Remarkables mountain range in the background. According to "Wikipedia" - The TSS Earnslaw is a 1912 Edwardian vintage twin screw steamer plying the waters of Lake Wakatipu in New Zealand. It is one of the oldest tourist attractions in Central Otago, and the only remaining commercial passenger-carrying coal-fired steamship in the southern hemisphere.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000CwIB7J3QMb8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000CwIB7J3QMb8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5737.jpgMakarora RiverMakarora River, somewhere between Arrowtown and Makarora.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gmxja63MY8Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gmxja63MY8I/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5738.jpgMakarora RiverMakarora River, somewhere between Arrowtown and Makarora.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00000QFsecEc5BQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00000QFsecEc5BQ/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5769.jpgLake MathesonLake Matheson with Mount Tasman (3497m) and New Zealand's highest mountain, Mount Cook (3754m), in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Zfqs9.9_6eghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Zfqs9.9_6eg/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5749.jpgMakarora River near Haast PassA bridge over Makarora River, close to the famous blue pools, near Haast Pass.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000unqaPWHMpvAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000unqaPWHMpvA/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5860.jpgPancake RocksThe Pancake Rocks are located south of Punakaiki village, which lies on the edge of Paparoa National Park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WmXgzd5mx5Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WmXgzd5mx5I/fit=1000x1000/IMG-5970.jpgDusky dolphins in KaikouraDusky dolphins swimming alongside our whale watching boat in Kaikoura.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kqDzUCCZN_Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kqDzUCCZN_A/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6078.jpgKiwifruit plantationWe stopped our car along a Kiwifruit plantation somewhere at Riwaka Valley, before continuing our drive to Nelson.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002VMR1dfKDLohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002VMR1dfKDLo/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6098.jpgCivic Square in WellingtonThe Civic Square, completed in 1992, was the first civic space in Wellington.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pcM3WYVyikEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pcM3WYVyikE/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6099.jpgWellingtonView on the waterfront and the harbour of Wellington.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dWoQE.1p2YMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dWoQE.1p2YM/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6138.jpgWellington Cable CarThe Wellington Cable Car. The first cable car line in Wellington was opened in 1902.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ob93wSoscFMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ob93wSoscFM/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6143.jpgToetoe grassThis tall grass type is native to New Zealand. According to "Wikipedia" - The M?ori used the toetoe leaves to make baskets, kites, mats, wall linings and roof thatching. It was also used to make containers to cook food in hot springs. The flower stalks were also useful - as frames for kites, and in tukutuku panelling. The seed heads themselves were used on fresh wounds to stop bleeding. Other medicinal uses included treatment of diarrhoea, kidney complaints, and burns. Toetoe is New Zealand's largest native grass, growing in clumps up to 3m in height.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LosUunigd2khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LosUunigd2k/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6162.jpgTongariro National ParkView on Mount Ruapehu (2797m). According to "Wikipedia" - Tongariro National Park is the oldest national park in New Zealand, located in the central North Island. It has been acknowledged by UNESCO as one of the 28 mixed cultural and natural World Heritage Sites. Tongariro National Park was the fourth national park established in the world. The active volcanic mountains Ruapehu, Ngauruhoe, and Tongariro are located in the centre of the park.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000v1ptsIH0Aw8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000v1ptsIH0Aw8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-6195.jpgRotorua Visitor CenterThe Rotorua Visitor Center was once, since 1914, Rotorua's Post Office.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FV0nvv_prichttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FV0nvv_pric/fit=1000x1000/MG-8617.jpgGirls posing in MoniPortrait of two girls in Moni, seen on the way up leading to the Kelimutu Craters.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Tf9NeNFePVIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Tf9NeNFePVI/fit=1000x1000/MG-8544.jpgBoy posing along a street leading to BlawukA boy posing in a village after we stop somewhere before Nebe, just before driving further to Blawuk.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UqGyxMQnvPEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UqGyxMQnvPE/fit=1000x1000/MG-9840.jpgLabuan BajoAfter three days on Seraya Island we were driven back to Labuan Bajo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000voQRcAmf7Ashttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000voQRcAmf7As/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1986.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Following a turtle with my camera, off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000m8bstwsWStghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000m8bstwsWStg/fit=1000x1000/MG-8642.jpgHandmade windmills in MoniWindmills made of softdrink cans, seen on the way down to Moni village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KMbsOB5XOEMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KMbsOB5XOEM/fit=1000x1000/MG-8629.jpgFamily portrait in MoniA boy, his mother and grandmother, seen on the way up leading to the Kelimutu Craters.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RohjbgnD0jQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RohjbgnD0jQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-8648.jpgChildren posing in MoniChildren posing in front of our guesthouse in Moni.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mNjZf.u_Zq4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mNjZf.u_Zq4/fit=1000x1000/MG-8671.jpgYoung men enjoying the waterfall in MoniYou will pass near this waterfall on the way up to the Kelimutu craters.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000djp7_SuVloQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000djp7_SuVloQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-8841.jpgThe Ebulobo volcano, seen from BoawaeSymmetrical stratovolcano Ebulobo, seen from the main road in Boawae.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000N9y4v4F_HA8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000N9y4v4F_HA8/fit=1000x1000/MG-8804.jpgDriving west heading BoawaeHuts and ricefields along the road leading to Boawae.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uu2rtXYkigwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uu2rtXYkigw/fit=1000x1000/MG-8868.jpgRicefields along the road between Boawae and BajawaView on the ricefields while we are driving between Boawae and Bajawa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zGrEUHjAlBghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zGrEUHjAlBg/fit=1000x1000/MG-9053.jpgBoys walking on Mbalata BeachOn the way to Ruteng we stopped at a beach for swimming. After a moment we noticed some nice and small bungalows along the beach. Minutes later we decided to stay there for one night.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vTN8_LgkhU0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vTN8_LgkhU0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9032.jpgBoys selling mangos along a streetBoys selling mangos along a street leading to the Mengeruda hot springs at Soa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QzeUU.aR0G0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QzeUU.aR0G0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9252.jpgDriving to Lake RanameseAfter one night at Mbalata beach we drove out heading Ruteng. In september 2003 a limestone cave called Liang Bua, located north of Ruteng, became very famous as a local man who was hired by archaologists discovered a skull during the archaeological excavations. According to "Wikipedia" Homo floresiensis was unveiled on 28 October 2004, and was swiftly nicknamed the "Hobbit", after the fictional race popularized in J. R. R. Tolkien's book The Hobbit, and a proposed scientific name for the species was Homo hobbitus. It was initially placed in its own genus, Sundanthropus floresianus ("Sunda human from Flores"), but reviewers of the article felt that the cranium, despite its size, belonged in the genus Homohttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006KNz1BOy7Nwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006KNz1BOy7Nw/fit=1000x1000/MG-9275.jpgLake RanameseLake Ranamese is located in East Manggarai and was originally a crater.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Rz17fQdEGMQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Rz17fQdEGMQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-9328.jpgIndonesian family in CancarWhile we were walking up on a viewpoint, to see the spider-web lingko fields, it started to rain heavily. This family kindly offered us shelter from the rain in their house.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002Qt2lH3AMX0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002Qt2lH3AMX0/fit=1000x1000/MG-9394.jpgFrom Cancar to Labuan BajoView over the forests, seen while driving from Cancar to Labuan Bajohttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000XRmuQYCfeqshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000XRmuQYCfeqs/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1450.jpgDiving around Labuan BajoDiving around Pulau Tengah, a small island located near Rinca Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003KZihq6dnt4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003KZihq6dnt4/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1459.jpgDiving around Labuan BajoDiving around Pulau Tengah, a small island located near Rinca Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZjZ9DBDas0Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZjZ9DBDas0Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-9643.jpgLabuan Bajo evening view form the top of a restaurantLabuan Bajo is the westernmost famous town in Flores. Labuan Bajo is also the epicenter of tourism, from where you can start some nice dives around the island or book a trip to Komodo Island or Rinca Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xlMHN88klAMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xlMHN88klAM/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1556.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Snorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000t5wkN.UR15Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000t5wkN.UR15I/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1622.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Snorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006fYOJThucJshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006fYOJThucJs/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1637.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Snorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000H_ZSn_9oe60https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000H_ZSn_9oe60/fit=1000x1000/MG-9754.jpgFisherboat at Seraya IslandA fisherboat seen on Seraya Island, while walking to the fishermen village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ac3d7ULPKfEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ac3d7ULPKfE/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1747.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Snorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ym20eKAT7pUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ym20eKAT7pU/fit=1000x1000/MG-9758.jpgGirls posing in the Fishermen village of SerayaThree girls posing in Seraya, just as i reached the fishermen village. Unfortunately i just noticed this village one day before departure.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pyKVixMy4HQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pyKVixMy4HQ/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1832.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Clownfishes or Anemone fishes, swimming around a sea anemone. Seen while snorkelling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TwUiWYpxeqkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TwUiWYpxeqk/fit=1000x1000/MG-9764.jpgMangroves on Seraya IslandMangroves, seen on the way back from the Fisherman village to our huts on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000R8a50p.cBqkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000R8a50p.cBqk/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1835.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Adult and juvenile clownfishes (Amphiprion ocellaris) swimming around a sea anemone. Seen while snorkelling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000t1gdl68SVUohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000t1gdl68SVUo/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1840.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Adult and juvenile clownfishes (Amphiprion ocellaris) swimming around a sea anemone. Seen while snorkelling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Hl.X3XgkTZwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Hl.X3XgkTZw/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1848.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Adult and juvenile clownfishes (Amphiprion ocellaris) swimming around a sea anemone. Seen while snorkelling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004KPZxMh7BMshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004KPZxMh7BMs/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1891.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Yellow clownfishes (Amphiprion sandaracinos) hiding into a sea anemone. Seen while snorkelling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005N4Ap8E54QEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005N4Ap8E54QE/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1910.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.According to "Wikipedia" - Clownfish and sea anemones have a symbiotic, mutualistic relationship, each providing a number of benefits to the other. The individual species are generally highly host specific, and especially the genera Heteractis and Stichodactyla, and the species Entacmaea quadricolor are frequent clownfish partners. The sea anemone protects the clownfish from predators, as well as providing food through the scraps left from the anemone's meals and occasional dead anemone tentacles. In return, the clownfish defends the anemone from its predators, and parasites. The anemone also picks up nutrients from the clownfish's excrement, and functions as a safe nest site.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hCXZktX1KEYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hCXZktX1KEY/fit=1000x1000/MG-9127.jpgA fisherboat on the sea, seen from Mbalata BeachFishermen standing in their boat close to Mbalata Beach set between Bajawa and Ruteng.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Gcq32zdmzowhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Gcq32zdmzow/fit=1000x1000/MG-9818.jpgBeach huts and the reef on Seraya IslandAs there were only a few tourists on Seraya Island, we had each an own beach hut. Yes!!http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UKW7YpNC4RIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UKW7YpNC4RI/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1942.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Two clownfishes, swimming around a sea anemone. Seen while snorkelling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KLD9NqCjCmIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KLD9NqCjCmI/fit=1000x1000/MG-9513.jpgKomodo dragon on Rinca IslandAs the Komodo dragons have no natural ennemies, you can approach the big lizards very closely. But when the dragons attack, they can run very fast for a short distance.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Xxn4PaFk.jghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Xxn4PaFk.jg/fit=1000x1000/MG-9432.jpgKomodo dragons on Rinca IslandAccording to "Wikipedia" - Komodo dragons hunt and ambush prey including invertebrates, birds, and mammals. It has been claimed that they have a venomous bite; there are two glands in the lower jaw which secrete several toxic proteins. The biological significance of these proteins is disputed, but the glands have been shown to secrete an anticoagulant. Komodo dragon group behaviour in hunting is exceptional in the reptile world. The diet of big Komodo dragons mainly consists of deer, though they also eat considerable amounts of carrion. Komodo dragons also occasionally attack humans in the area of West Manggarai Regency where they live in Indonesia.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fdsFWhxz2SIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fdsFWhxz2SI/fit=1000x1000/MG-9429.jpgKomodo dragons on Rinca IslandThe Komodo dragon can reach a length of 3m and a weight of 70kg. Young Komodo dragons usually hide on trees where they are safe from predators and from bigger cannibalistic Komodos.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005u_vVIg.t6shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005u_vVIg.t6s/fit=1000x1000/MG-8879.jpgRicefields along the road between Boawae and BajawaView on the ricefields while we are driving between Boawae and Bajawa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IvwpswXnct8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IvwpswXnct8/fit=1000x1000/IMG-1620.jpgSnorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.Snorkeling off the beach on Seraya Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TCQZijZloHghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TCQZijZloHg/fit=1000x1000/MG-9844.jpgLabuan BajoAccording to "Wikipedia" - The local economy in the town is centered around the ferry port and tourism, local shops and restaurants, and the diving trade. Most of the foreign tourists are European, many from Italy, Australia and the United Kingdom. The wider area produces fish and palm oil; there is also a large amount of subsistence agriculture in the villages in the region where living standards are still low. Levels of poverty in the rural areas are high.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_4sMeHkY3wwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_4sMeHkY3ww/fit=1000x1000/MG-6970.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YgqE2hY5fyAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YgqE2hY5fyA/fit=1000x1000/MG-6969.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Z2mhPgWXbH0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Z2mhPgWXbH0/fit=1000x1000/MG-6978.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000lJFPup.213ohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000lJFPup.213o/fit=1000x1000/MG-6984.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nevdCiuUTaMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nevdCiuUTaM/fit=1000x1000/MG-6992.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000w76MPsJmuVghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000w76MPsJmuVg/fit=1000x1000/MG-6985.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002ejsJNKmEdIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002ejsJNKmEdI/fit=1000x1000/MG-6993.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Qopoj9aex04https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Qopoj9aex04/fit=1000x1000/MG-6989.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rVM793vr1nchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rVM793vr1nc/fit=1000x1000/MG-7009.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DL9bHmSTtjshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DL9bHmSTtjs/fit=1000x1000/MG-6998.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007n.DqZ8TFS0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007n.DqZ8TFS0/fit=1000x1000/MG-7017.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UaqGrAp6yyMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UaqGrAp6yyM/fit=1000x1000/MG-7027.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005_PRVwWzdFMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005_PRVwWzdFM/fit=1000x1000/MG-7030.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000i7risi8MffUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000i7risi8MffU/fit=1000x1000/MG-7019.jpgBen Vrackie.Walking up to Ben Vrackie.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QpsAoYSIjmMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QpsAoYSIjmM/fit=1000x1000/MG-9668.jpgLos Alerces National ParkLenticular clouds over a lake in Los Alerces National Park. The Park was created in 1937 to save the last stand of alerce trees. Only a small area is accessible to tourists.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000087il2uugMNQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000087il2uugMNQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-9881.jpgPinturas River ValleyThe Pinturas River Valley can be seen by leaving Ruta 40, the longest road of Argentina. If you pass near the valley, don't miss the famous cave "Cueva de las Manos".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DM6rpnG6HmIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DM6rpnG6HmI/fit=1000x1000/MG-9885.jpgPath to Cueva de los ManosOn the bottom left corner you can see the path leading to the famous cave "Cueva de las Manos".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jdefCYjmE_Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jdefCYjmE_E/fit=1000x1000/MG-9929.jpgPainted Hands at Cueva de las ManosMore than 90% of the approximately 9000 years old painted hands are left hands. If you are lucky you can find the famous six-fingered hand.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YBQnSHHSqcUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YBQnSHHSqcU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0017.jpgCerro Fitz RoyMount Fitz Roy (3405m) is located in Los Glaciares National Park on the border between Argentina and Chile. For climbers, Cerro Fitz Roy is considered to be one of the most dangerous mountains in the world. Unpredictable weather and the sheer granite faces makes this mountain extremely difficult to climb.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yLcYk4gJOlchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yLcYk4gJOlc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0032.jpgMagellanic woodpeckerThis magellanic woodpecker (Carpintero Negro Patagónico) was hanging around the trees and not afraid of us at all. This photo was taken from a distance of about 5 meters.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000k.uAEiUQ.T4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000k.uAEiUQ.T4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0042.jpgCampground in El ChaltenView on a campground situated in El Chalten. You can start nice day hikes, leaving from El Chalten and climb up for beautiful views of Cerro Fitz Roy. El Chalten offers also different trekking (and tent) possibilities for Backpackers who intend to stay in the region for more than one day.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000dMogMiNfsdEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000dMogMiNfsdE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0143.jpgLago Argentino in Los Glaciares National ParkStill cruising on the biggest lake in Argentina "Lago Argentino", surrounding by amazing glaciers and ... an overcrowded boat ...http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nLZUv0MbRgUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nLZUv0MbRgU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0217.jpgLago Argentino in Los Glaciares National ParkAccording to "Wikipedia" - Los Glaciares is a major attraction for international tourists, and has an annual budget of one million dollars (1994). Starting points of tours are the village of El Calafate at the shore of Lake Argentino but outside the park, where the park's administration has its headquarters, and El Chaltén village in the northern part of the park, at the foot of the Fitz Roy.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000b5jqLiceFgIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000b5jqLiceFgI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0289.jpgBahia Onelli in Los Glaciares National ParkWe stopped for a walk at Bahia Onelli and passed through a forest between Brazo Upsala and Lago Onelli. The views of the glacier and the mountains are spectacular.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ABH8ivYt9pAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ABH8ivYt9pA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0300.jpgForest of Bahia Onelli in Los Glaciares National ParkOld forest near Lago Onelli.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000jsjDks.viRUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000jsjDks.viRU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0343.jpgLago Argentino in Los Glaciares National ParkThere is an amazing amount of blue-colored icebergs floating in Lago Argentino.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000v_AJKENQE48https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000v_AJKENQE48/fit=1000x1000/MG-0403.jpgPerito Moreno in Los Glaciares National ParkThe Perito Moreno Glacier is another very popular tourist attraction in the patagonian region of Argentina, and the 3rd largest drinkable water reserve in the world.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000l9IrPNS.Ktwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000l9IrPNS.Ktw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0408.jpgPerito Moreno in Los Glaciares National ParkThe Glacier of Perito Moreno is feeded by the Southern Patagonian icefield, an impressive ice mass also called "Campo de Hielo Sur", the second largest icefield in the world. Compared to the nearly 60 meter high ice walls of Perito Moreno, every ship appears to be a floating toy boat.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TCjLIT0Q4.chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TCjLIT0Q4.c/fit=1000x1000/MG-0418.jpgPerito Moreno in Los Glaciares National ParkThe Perito Moreno is one of the few growing glaciers in the world. This photo shows tourists, waiting to see huge pieces of ice plunging down into the water.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000d1dyERswe7Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000d1dyERswe7A/fit=1000x1000/MG-0432.jpgPerito Moreno in Los Glaciares National ParkAnother view of Perito Moreno and the surrounding mountains.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DFt_mkw8Ao8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DFt_mkw8Ao8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0389.jpgLago Argentino in Los Glaciares National ParkAmazing blue sculptures lightened under the evening sun. Parque Nacional Los Glaciares was declared World Heritage Site in 1981.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002k2FKHmM5a4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002k2FKHmM5a4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1111.jpgUshuaia harbourMany tourists stop at Ushuaia before starting excursions on the Beagle Channel. Ushuaia is also a port of departure for heading down to Antarctica.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fsZWe0SLpSUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fsZWe0SLpSU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1124.jpgUshuaiaOur guesthouse in Ushuaia, guarded by a Rough Collie suffering from hyperactivity most of the time :-)http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QNHuQb.b49Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QNHuQb.b49E/fit=1000x1000/MG-1171.jpgIsla de los Pajaros, Beagle ChannelA lonely Imperial Shag, one of many two-colored Cormorants on Isla de los Pajaros, resting on a rock of the Cormorant Colony.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004UJkpUv3nnAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004UJkpUv3nnA/fit=1000x1000/MG-1182.jpgIsla de los Pajaros, Beagle ChannelAnother picture of the Cormorant Colony on Isla de los Pajaros. The Imperial Shag lives in the southern regions of South America and in the Antarctic Peninsula.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006I2hhNmrXHYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006I2hhNmrXHY/fit=1000x1000/MG-1189.jpgH Island, Beagle ChannelYou can only stop at the "H" Island with "Tres Marias Excursiones", as they are the only one with an authorization for disembarking.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nsqQKaKvGbshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nsqQKaKvGbs/fit=1000x1000/MG-1196.jpgH Island, Beagle ChannelThe "H" island has archeological significance. The Yamana aborigenes lived here 100 years ago - for about 7000 years.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kgitnBXR.EUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kgitnBXR.EU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1206.jpgH Island, Beagle ChannelAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Beagle Channel is a strait separating islands of the Tierra del Fuego Archipelago, in extreme southern South America. It separates Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego from the islands Nueva, Picton, Navarino, Hoste, Londonderry, Stewart Islands and other smaller to the south. Its eastern portion is part of the border between Chile and Argentina, but the western part is completely within Chile. The west end is the Darwin Sound and the east end is Nueva Island. The Beagle Channel, the Straits of Magellan to the north, and the open ocean Drake Passage to the south are the three navigable passages around South America between the Pacific and the Atlantic oceans. The Beagle Channel and the Straits of Magellan are both very narrow passages which severely limit the size and types of ships that can safely use them, hence, most commercial shipping is done through the Drake Passage.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NZPee2vfSbMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NZPee2vfSbM/fit=1000x1000/MG-1235.jpgCormorant colony at H Island, Beagle ChannelAfter a short hike we were standing on the best place to approach a breeding Cormorant colony.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fsy9BtUiKMEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fsy9BtUiKME/fit=1000x1000/MG-1314.jpgObelisco in Buenos AiresThe capital of Argentina is a very fascinating and affordable destination and without a doubt, one of the most charming metropoles in the world. The photo shows the 67 meters high obelisk of Buenos Aires.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wQJmtIJJijwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wQJmtIJJijw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1321.jpgPlaza del Congreso in Buenos AiresThe fountain on Plaza del Congreso.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000P7QPkYuK_AYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000P7QPkYuK_AY/fit=1000x1000/MG-1330.jpgPlaza de Mayo in Buenos AiresOne of the main squares in Buenos Aires is the "Plaza de Mayo". A well-known building is the Casa Rosada, which you can see in the center.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000tRyMXw3JSC4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000tRyMXw3JSC4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1361.jpgFrigate at Buenos AiresThe Frigate "Presidente Sarmiento" was constructed in England and designed for training purposes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WzW8uv2Xtdshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WzW8uv2Xtds/fit=1000x1000/MG-1366.jpgFrigate at Buenos AiresThe 85 meters long "Presidente Sarmiento" made 39 voyages around the world. The last trip was made in 1938.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Hd8pJLuKGqchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Hd8pJLuKGqc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1367.jpgFrigate at Buenos AiresThe Frigate functions as a museum today and is moored at Puerto Madero in Buenos Aires.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Fa0wu8w8yDMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Fa0wu8w8yDM/fit=1000x1000/MG-1389.jpgLa Boca in Buenos AiresLa Boca, the colourful "neighbourhood" of Buenos Aires, is a popular destination for tourists.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DQesKIZJiJIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DQesKIZJiJI/fit=1000x1000/MG-1397.jpgLa Boca in Buenos AiresAn aged man sitting in front of a tango bar in "La Boca".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000G50a45LOShghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000G50a45LOShg/fit=1000x1000/MG-1426.jpgObelisco in Buenos AiresSunset over the "Avenida 9 de Julyo", world's widest avenue with 16 lanes! Invest some minutes if you want to cross this avenue.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003N_vuD3kkLAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003N_vuD3kkLA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0151.jpgAuto rickshaw in TarmaAn auto rickshaw - also known as three wheeler, is one type of public transportation in Peru.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kKNAThwz4zghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kKNAThwz4zg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0159.jpgMarket in TarmaA man selling oranges at a market in Tarma.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QILEbKi1FBMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QILEbKi1FBM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0172.jpgAuto rickshaw in TarmaAn auto rickshaw, also known as three wheeler, is one type of public transportation in Peru.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002rfqNzYX8zohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002rfqNzYX8zo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0188.jpgMarket in TarmaA woman selling onions at a market in Tarma.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DZAVMmGXyVghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DZAVMmGXyVg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0189.jpgMarket in TarmaA woman selling different vegetables at a market in Tarma.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KRPRnLbmDO4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KRPRnLbmDO4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0351.jpgPeruvian National PoliceTwo female cops doing there job near the Plaza de Armas in Ayacuchohttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000g7vLAKQgh6Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000g7vLAKQgh6M/fit=1000x1000/MG-0372.jpgSanta Maria de ChicmoAn elderly woman watching a political campaign gathering in a street of Santa Maria de Chicmo district.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_TsI6Kpu8PEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_TsI6Kpu8PE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0379.jpgDriving from Ayacucho to AbancayMountain scenery along Ruta PE-3SD. Seen between Santa Maria de Chicmo district and Abancay.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DmnhpVHLFrYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DmnhpVHLFrY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0381.jpgDriving from Ayacucho to AbancayMountain scenery along Ruta PE-3SD. Seen a couple of hours before reaching Abancay.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000B8IgBHfwAGIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000B8IgBHfwAGI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0487.jpgArchaeological site of OllantaytamboSurrounded by mountains, Ollantaytambo is a town and a famous archaological site located in the Cusco region.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j.nwKErns.ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j.nwKErns.g/fit=1000x1000/MG-0491.jpgArchaeological site of OllantaytamboView on the ruins and the fortifications of Ollantaytambo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VLfQzSxK4F4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VLfQzSxK4F4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0492.jpgArchaeological site of OllantaytamboView on the ruins and the fortifications of Ollantaytambo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009zDUrW9zDcYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009zDUrW9zDcY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0501.jpgArchaeological site of OllantaytamboAccording to "Wikipedia" - During the Inca Empire, Ollantaytambo was the royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti who conquered the region, built the town and a ceremonial center. At the time of the Spanish conquest of Peru it served as a stronghold for Manco Inca Yupanqui, leader of the Inca resistance.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Gj.hABkNMB4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Gj.hABkNMB4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0504.jpgArchaeological site of OllantaytamboThe town and archaeological site of Ollantaytambo is located at an altitude of 2792m, near Patakancha River. Nowadays Ollantaytambo is a famous touristic attraction for its ancient Inca ruins.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Q6NuHjVni2Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Q6NuHjVni2I/fit=1000x1000/MG-0522.jpgArchaeological site of OllantaytamboThe site in Ollantaytambo was still under construction during the spanish invasion of Peru.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KoVbJgEyl6chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KoVbJgEyl6c/fit=1000x1000/MG-0534.jpgArchaeological site of OllantaytamboView on the temple hill with its fortification walls and the famous terraces of Ollantaytambo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hxPwhI7TBn4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hxPwhI7TBn4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0576.jpgArchaeological site of OllantaytamboIn 1536 the surrounding terraces of the settlement of Ollantaytambo became a decisive factor for the victory over the spanish invaders. According to "Wikipedia" - There is some controversy over the actual location of the battle; according to John Hemming it took place in the town itself, while Jean-Pierre Protzen argues that the nearby plain of Mascabamba better matches the descriptions of the encounter. In any case, the Inca army managed to hold the Spanish forces from a set of high terraces and flood their position to hinder their cavalry. Severely pressed and unable to advance, the Spaniards withdrew by night to Cusco.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000i66RP5o2BJYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000i66RP5o2BJY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0583.jpgTrain tracks in Aguas CalientesAguas Calientes, also called Machu Picchu Pueblo is the nearest town to the Machu Picchu complex.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uMdNwm9wJUAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uMdNwm9wJUA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0590.jpgGirl playing at a fountainGirl playing at a water fountain in Aguas Calientes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000af3Q7ePogqghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000af3Q7ePogqg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0591.jpgAguas CalientesGirls spending time playing volleyball and reading newspapers in Aguas Calientes.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000sZdk3OXLBughttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000sZdk3OXLBug/fit=1000x1000/MG-0597.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuView over Machu Picchu just after sunrise with Huayna Picchu Mountain at the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006fu1SI.a6_Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006fu1SI.a6_I/fit=1000x1000/MG-0606.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuA domesticated Llama looking over the site of Machu Picchu just after sunrise with Huayna Picchu Mountain at the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000F6l1BvHRFcshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000F6l1BvHRFcs/fit=1000x1000/MG-0683.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuOne of the walls of the temple of the three windows at the sacred plaza. The Incas cut the stones into blocks and fitted them tightly together without using mortar or any other binding material.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SqFkPq64S6Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SqFkPq64S6A/fit=1000x1000/MG-0687.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuPartial view of the temple of the three windows, better known as "Templo de las Tres Ventanas".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009RzpJ.Ad0pwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009RzpJ.Ad0pw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0705.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuThe place leading to the agricultural zone of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002jWRZUYy8s0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002jWRZUYy8s0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0714.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuPartial view of the urban section of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ynUVSa0DzWkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ynUVSa0DzWk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0715.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuPartial view of the urban section of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003S2EMdV1_1ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003S2EMdV1_1g/fit=1000x1000/MG-0717.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuAccording to "Wikipedia" - The site is roughly divided into an urban sector and an agricultural sector, as well as the upper town and the lower town. The temples are part of the upper town, the warehouses the lower.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ggr8ye.wmAghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ggr8ye.wmAg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0723.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuA carved stone altar at Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WBChBsiGt_4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WBChBsiGt_4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0724.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuPartial view over the valley of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bQZS1fHIy7whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bQZS1fHIy7w/fit=1000x1000/MG-0726.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuPartial view of the urban section of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Dg7QlUHG6.Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Dg7QlUHG6.I/fit=1000x1000/MG-0735.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuPartial view of the urban section of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PTYBI5DhZAchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PTYBI5DhZAc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0744.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuPartial view of the urban section of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KOtQC792OLYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KOtQC792OLY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0749.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuA man cleaning and restoring a wall of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000swrmC_3VWDwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000swrmC_3VWDw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0822.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuView of the residential section of Machu Picchu. Some houses were reconstructed like the original ones.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000umlHHr120J0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000umlHHr120J0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0824.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuPartial view of the residential section of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000x0.mpUPAt70https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000x0.mpUPAt70/fit=1000x1000/MG-0827.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuThe ritual stone Intiwatana was designed according to the astronomic calendar and the clock used by the Incas.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008tFo22olbW0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008tFo22olbW0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0886.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuAccording to "Wikipedia" - The Incas never used the wheel in any practical manner. Its use in toys demonstrates that the principle was well-known to them, although it was not applied in their engineering. The lack of strong draft animals, as well as steep terrain and dense vegetation issues, may have rendered the wheel impractical. How they moved and placed the enormous blocks of stones remains a mystery, although the general belief is that they used hundreds of men to push the stones up inclined planes. A few of the stones still have knobs on them that could have been used to lever them into position; it is believed that after the stones were placed, the Incas would have sanded the knobs away, but a few were overlooked.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000OWgWj6IU3L8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000OWgWj6IU3L8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0891.jpgHistoric Sanctuary of Machu PicchuView on the agricultural terraces of Machu Picchu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LMlfQolMYeQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LMlfQolMYeQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0939.jpgSalinas de MarasAccording to "Wikipedia" - The highly salty water emerges at a spring, a natural outlet of the underground stream. The flow is directed into an intricate system of tiny channels constructed so that the water runs gradually down onto the several hundred ancient terraced ponds. Almost all the ponds are less than four meters square in area, and none exceeds thirty centimeters in depth. All are necessarily shaped into polygons with the flow of water carefully controlled and monitored by the workers. The altitude of the ponds slowly decreases, so that the water may flow through the myriad branches of the water-supply channels and be introduced slowly through a notch in one sidewall of each pond. The proper maintenance of the adjacent feeder channel, the side walls and the water-entry notch, the pond's bottom surface, the quantity of water, and the removal of accumulated salt deposits requires close cooperation among the community of users.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TSDXGoPBDzYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TSDXGoPBDzY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0943.jpgSalinas de MarasAn elder man has scraped the dry salt from the surface of a pool.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fnZCQfofCZ4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fnZCQfofCZ4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0976.jpgFrom Salinas de Maras to MorayDry landscape scene between the Salinas de Maras and the road leading to Moray.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Z47.M99Rlnwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Z47.M99Rlnw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0991.jpgMorayView over the ancient circular terraces of Moray. The agricultural terraces were once used by the Incas.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000e3QuCXqzzDohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000e3QuCXqzzDo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0993.jpgMorayAccording tot "Wikipedia" - The purpose of these depressions is uncertain, but their depth, design, and orientation with respect to wind and sun creates a temperature difference of as much as 15 °C (27 °F) between the top and the bottom. It is possible that this large temperature difference was used by the Inca to study the effects of different climatic conditions on crops. Speculation about the site has led to discussion about Moray as an Inca agricultural experiment station. Its microclimatic conditions and other significant characteristics led to the use of the site as a center for the ancient study of domestication, acclimatization, and hybridization of wild vegetable species that were modified or adapted for human consumption.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oK6OJ_pLJBEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oK6OJ_pLJBE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1029.jpgBetween Moray and Maras VillageLandscape scenery between Moray and Maras Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Wn2oIee3Fp4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Wn2oIee3Fp4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1032.jpgBetween Moray and Maras VillageA boy posing near his farm, somewhere between Moray and Maras Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008cSx.Zvb3t4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008cSx.Zvb3t4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1040.jpgBetween Moray and Maras VillageA family posing somewhere between Moray and Maras Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VkrKRdDYgrkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VkrKRdDYgrk/fit=1000x1000/MG-1041.jpgBetween Moray and Maras VillageA family posing somewhere between Moray and Maras Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mUng9EvWKrQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mUng9EvWKrQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1042.jpgBetween Moray and Maras VillageA kid seen along the street leading from Moray to Maras Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GF2BXmBae_Mhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GF2BXmBae_M/fit=1000x1000/MG-1043.jpgBetween Moray to Maras VillageLandscape scenery between Moray and Maras VIllage.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000n9MZ109SfQohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000n9MZ109SfQo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1129.jpgArchaeological site of PisacView on the ancient military citadel Q'allaqasa in Pisac, a well-known village in the Sacred Valley.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JLLQyxrNDk8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JLLQyxrNDk8/fit=1000x1000/MG-1135.jpgArchaeological site of PisacAgricultural terraces near the citadel Q'allaqasa in Pisac.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ANOs1qiYttEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ANOs1qiYttE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1153.jpgArchaeological site of PisacAccording to "Wikipedia" - Researchers believe that Písac defended the southern entrance to the Sacred Valley, while Choquequirao defended the western entrance, and the fortress at Ollantaytambo the northern. Inca Pisac controlled a route which connected the Inca Empire with the border of the rain forest.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EisyUXMh9dUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EisyUXMh9dU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1158.jpgArchaeological site of PisacView on the Pisac fortification walls.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vW8sIAYr.Tshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vW8sIAYr.Ts/fit=1000x1000/MG-1232.jpgTwelve angle stoneThe famous twelve angle stone is part of a huge inca wall, built in Cusco.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000bTfYjmg5NnUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000bTfYjmg5NnU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1333.jpgTaquile IslandA girl posing near her house on Taquile Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000UzgqahWsYYchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000UzgqahWsYYc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1334.jpgTaquile IslandA girl posing near her house on Taquile Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006H1wExKw5m8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006H1wExKw5m8/fit=1000x1000/MG-1341.jpgTaquile IslandA woman spinning wool on Taquile Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000yNM2KJpdynkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000yNM2KJpdynk/fit=1000x1000/MG-1344.jpgTaquile IslandAccording to "Wikipedia" - Taquileños are known for their fine handwoven textiles and clothing, which are regarded as among the highest-quality handicrafts in Peru. Knitting is exclusively performed by males, starting at age eight. The women exclusively make yarn and weave.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A8MRSSK5WHQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A8MRSSK5WHQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1357.jpgTaquile IslandA little girl posing near her house on Taquile Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TFofuPqYzMohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TFofuPqYzMo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1358.jpgTaquile IslandA little girl posing near her house on Taquile Island.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nJlaU4eUQNchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nJlaU4eUQNc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1375.jpgDriving on Route PE-34ADriving on Route PE-34A leaving Puno, heading Arequipahttp://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ETbLIXPEN1shttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ETbLIXPEN1s/fit=1000x1000/MG-1405.jpgPetrified forest of ImataView on the petrified forest of Imata.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nof9GoOX4bshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nof9GoOX4bs/fit=1000x1000/MG-1411.jpgPetrified forest of ImataThe stone forest of Imata is located 150km northeast from Arequipa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Cf7JSn02LTEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Cf7JSn02LTE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1412.jpgPetrified forest of ImataImata is located at 4500m above sea level and one of the coldest regions in Peru, reaching a temperature of about -25C between mai and june.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000R_S_M22gJxkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000R_S_M22gJxk/fit=1000x1000/MG-1417.jpgPetrified forest of ImataAn eroded rock formation with view on the valley of Imata.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000YNBNt0SEymwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000YNBNt0SEymw/fit=1000x1000/MG-1420.jpgLeaving Arequipa on Route AR-116Driving from Arequipa to Colca Canon over Route AR-116http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IuFcHgfq8Qchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IuFcHgfq8Qc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1421.jpgOut of Arequipa with view on Mount Chachani.View on the settlements out of the city of Arequipa with 6057 m high Chachani Volcano in the back.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000K0QIvZaxtpohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000K0QIvZaxtpo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1480.jpgPatapampa PassThere is a nice volcano viewpoint on the Patapampa Pass situated on an altitude of 4910m. Unfortunately only Nevado Sabancaya (5976 m) can be seen clearly on this photo. Nevado Ampato (6265) is partialy covered by a volcanic ash cloud.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hBnyM_SRwIYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hBnyM_SRwIY/fit=1000x1000/MG-1512.jpgValley between Pinchollo and YanqueSome nice valleys can be seen on Route AR-109, the road leading to Cabanaconde, the nearest village where you can sleep before heading to the condor viewpoint.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DP95BBYWtcYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DP95BBYWtcY/fit=1000x1000/MG-1515.jpgTunnel in MacaDriving through the impressive tunnel in Maca, before reaching Cabanaconde.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000EeKJfivuxd0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000EeKJfivuxd0/fit=1000x1000/MG-1540.jpgColca CanonAccording to "Wikipedia" - Colca Canyon is a canyon of the Colca River in southern Peru, located about 100 miles (160 kilometers) northwest of Arequipa. It is Peru's third most-visited tourist destination with about 120,000 visitors annually. With a depth of 13,650 ft (4,160 m), it is more than twice as deep as the Grand Canyon in the United States.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KuZ4KGf5fs8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KuZ4KGf5fs8/fit=1000x1000/MG-2168.jpgParacas National ReservePlaya Roja, the famous red sand beach in Paracas National Reserve.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gqDqd1FOMWUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gqDqd1FOMWU/fit=1000x1000/MG-2195.jpgParacas National ReservePlaya Roja, the famous red sand beach in Paracas National Reserve.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.6nGNN._Q6chttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.6nGNN._Q6c/fit=1000x1000/MG-2207.jpgParacas National ReserveAn old trailer painted in the colors of the beach in Paracas National Reserve.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000JDVd7OqLZvshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000JDVd7OqLZvs/fit=1000x1000/MG-0219.jpgHelambu TrekWalking the Helambu Trek, between Chisapani und Pati Bhanjyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000keTG3dnlWtAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000keTG3dnlWtA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0222.jpgHelambu TrekTeacher and students posing in front of their school in Pati Bhanjyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003NNgs4vMZZ8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003NNgs4vMZZ8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0227.jpgHelambu TrekPortrait of a Nepalese girl taken between Pati Bhanjyang and Thankuni Bhanjyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nbiwFycmVbUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nbiwFycmVbU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0269.jpgHelambu TrekTwo kids playing near the stupa of Golphu Bhanjyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000l32ZZZzPnVAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000l32ZZZzPnVA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0280.jpgHelambu TrekA group of students crossing a small river to their way to school, somewhere between Golphu Bhanjyang and Kutumsang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000rUsKrddUbtghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000rUsKrddUbtg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0295.jpgHelambu TrekWe arrived in Kutumsang shortly before noon.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000U4Okk0g.n8Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000U4Okk0g.n8A/fit=1000x1000/MG-0302.jpgHelambu TrekA woman cleaning a pan near her guesthouse in Kutumsang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003Yi_CyIdMIEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003Yi_CyIdMIE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0324.jpgHelambu TrekIlluminated rice terraces in Kutumsang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fKSHMKFbliYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fKSHMKFbliY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0326.jpgHelambu TrekView on small villages set in the middle of the rice fields.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000wY_9tQgInmEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000wY_9tQgInmE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0404.jpgHelambu TrekA couple of hours after we left our Lodge in Mangengoth, we were offered a great view on the mountains.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003rxNIg60x_whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003rxNIg60x_w/fit=1000x1000/MG-0414.jpgHelambu TrekFrom our path leading to Tharepati we have an amazing view over some clouds hanging around the mountains.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000F2QbEfMl3Rohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000F2QbEfMl3Ro/fit=1000x1000/MG-0427.jpgHelambu TrekA young man doing some woodwork near the guesthouse in Tharepati.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Ttee5PgpDS4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Ttee5PgpDS4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0433.jpgHelambu TrekOne of the children living near our guesthouse in Tharepati.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005IvKvF_tfxohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005IvKvF_tfxo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0454.jpgHelambu TrekYoung Nepali men, all of them carrying a khukuri. This Nepalese knife is also the symbolic weapon of the Gurkha Rifles, which are said to be one of the best infantrymen in the world.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Y3qa4Jh.4Tshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Y3qa4Jh.4Ts/fit=1000x1000/MG-0463.jpgHelambu TrekSunset seen from our guesthouse, set on the top of a hill in Tharepati.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000_Ia0ixx.vjchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000_Ia0ixx.vjc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0472.jpgHelambu TrekWomen talking early in the morning, outside our guesthouse in Tharepati. According to "Wikipedia" - Helambu is a region of highland villages in Nepal, close to Kathmandu. It is the home of the Hyolmo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004Y3oWOncY50https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004Y3oWOncY50/fit=1000x1000/MG-0483.jpgHelambu TrekWalking on a wooden suspension bridge before reaching Melamchi village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WdzR1K8Kc1Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WdzR1K8Kc1E/fit=1000x1000/MG-0510.jpgHelambu TrekThree girls posing in Melamchi Ghyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000h036Hi5Df6Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000h036Hi5Df6Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-0515.jpgHelambu TrekThe monastery area in Melamchi Ghyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hSobhOMI7BQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hSobhOMI7BQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0517.jpgHelambu TrekA woman working in her garden in Melamchi Ghyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007qYCcBM9tKkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007qYCcBM9tKk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0521.jpgHelambu TrekMani stones along the path between Melamchi and Nakote.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HpDD6WAM_80https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HpDD6WAM_80/fit=1000x1000/MG-0535.jpgHelambu TrekKids having fun while posing near the monastery of Nakote.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000cV2vHgbYxWIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000cV2vHgbYxWI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0566.jpgHelambu TrekA ruined stupa near the village of Tarkeghyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xxxyTAUsmiIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xxxyTAUsmiI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0608.jpgHelambu TrekAfter walking all the day, and before reaching our guesthouse, Marco and i were invited by two locals of Tarkeghyang to take part on a Buddhist ceremony which would be held in the monastery late in the evening. As we arrived in the monastery, monks and many locals were kneeing and preaching verses from long recangular Sutra books. We were invited to kneel down too. After a couple of hours we were the only tourists in the monastery and everytime we tried to stand up because of the pain in our legs, the locals made us signs to kneel down again. At the end we took also part to their dinner. Without a spoon nor a fork, we were sitting there like two clowns trying to eat with our fingers, causing the locals to laugh.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001LrgsOMeFUwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001LrgsOMeFUw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0654.jpgHelambu TrekThe monastery of Ghyang Yul set between rice terraces.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A3WxQjEXex0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A3WxQjEXex0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0676.jpgHelambu TrekWe saw this farmer cutting gras with a sickle as we were walking from Sermathang to Kakani.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mFSTaeDOt5Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mFSTaeDOt5U/fit=1000x1000/MG-0225.jpgHelambu TrekA boy carrying a traditional nepalese basket. Portrait taken between Pati Bhanjyang and Thankuni Bhanjyang.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vLzcIEckkRUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vLzcIEckkRU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0804.jpgMount Everest TrekA Dzo caravan coming toward our path, somewhere between Lobuche and Gorak Shep. In the background you can see the Everest West Shoulder.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HLt4p_qUrKMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HLt4p_qUrKM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0011.jpgMount Everest TrekA girl washing her clothes, somewhere between Lukla and Phakding.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iL92NEFJ_Xkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iL92NEFJ_Xk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0018.jpgMount Everest TrekA big mani stone between Lukla and Phakding.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000zHrhbOAu3FAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000zHrhbOAu3FA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0021.jpgMount Everest TrekPhoto taken on the way from Lukla to Phakding. Lukla, especially its airport, is best known to be the entry port for the Khumbu region.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007lztXHF_NQ0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007lztXHF_NQ0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0033.jpgMount Everest TrekA girl combing her hair as we pass her house, somewhere between Phakding and Monjo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uRY9q7PijT0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uRY9q7PijT0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0083.jpgMount Everest TrekOn the left, Kusum Kanguru (6367m), seen on the way up from Namche Bazar to "Everest View Hotel", which is located near Syangboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000pgYXNkyH_zshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000pgYXNkyH_zs/fit=1000x1000/MG-0107.jpgMount Everest TrekCholatse (6440m) and Tobuche (6500m) behind Phortse village. Seen from "Everest View Hotel".http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ZS_5Rtp_oRYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ZS_5Rtp_oRY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0109.jpgMount Everest TrekView from "Everest View Hotel" on Ama Dablam (6856m), partially hidden behind a cloud.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000uSEo1tnxdNghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000uSEo1tnxdNg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0110.jpgMount Everest TrekView from "Everest View Hotel" on Ama Dablam (6856m), partially hidden behind a cloud.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001Lv7ky8yboshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001Lv7ky8ybos/fit=1000x1000/MG-0116.jpgMount Everest TrekAma Dablam (6856m), partially hidden by clouds, and a yak grazing beside a chorten as we continue our descend from "Everest View Hotel" to Khumjung.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MUekO1oxn64https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MUekO1oxn64/fit=1000x1000/MG-0119.jpgMount Everest TrekA grazing yak beside a chorten with Kangtega (6782m) and Thamserku (6623m) in the background. Landscape scenery on the way down from "Everest View Hotel" to Khumjung.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004u_CwmXMV7ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004u_CwmXMV7g/fit=1000x1000/MG-0145.jpgMount Everest TrekA girl in Khumjung. The harsh weather conditions have left their traces on this girl's cheeks.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000l7_a3iTmP6Ehttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000l7_a3iTmP6E/fit=1000x1000/MG-0149.jpgMount Everest TrekA boy walking before a stony wall in Khumjung which is plastered with round yak dung patties.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j159tiPIcnYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j159tiPIcnY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0171.jpgMount Everest TrekView over Khumjung with the Hillary School and its schoolyard. The Hillary School was founded by Sir Hillary in 1961 and it is the only one high school in the Khumbu region.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Cq8bjQbydhghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Cq8bjQbydhg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0177.jpgMount Everest TrekA porter carrying wooden beams from Khumjung to Syangboche. In the past most of the porters were Sherpas. Nowadays most of them are generally members from other ethnic groups.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00005l.JDgQw2DYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00005l.JDgQw2DY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0186.jpgMount Everest TrekWe passed a long row of prayer wheels as we were leaving Namche Bazar heading Samde.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000008KznN1uExohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000008KznN1uExo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0199.jpgMount Everest TrekWalking between Namche Bazar and Samde, with views over the Bothe Koshi Valley and Thamo village on the right side.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Acziswyu8PIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Acziswyu8PI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0204.jpgMount Everest TrekAn old woman posing for the camera, somewhere between Namche Bazar and Samde.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004Acxvm1Th_Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004Acxvm1Th_A/fit=1000x1000/MG-0225.jpgMount Everest TrekMighty mountains dominating the landscape scenery between Samde to Thame.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000S9WTtcKtJqwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000S9WTtcKtJqw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0278.jpgMount Everest TrekAccording to "Wikipedia" - Thame and its neighbouring Thameteng (upper Thame) are small Sherpa villages in Namche VDC of the Solukhumbu District in Nepal. These were the last year-round villages on the salt trading route that existed between Tibet, Nepal and India. It is the home to many famous Sherpa mountaineers, including Apa Sherpa, who holds the world record for summiting Everest 21 times. It was also a childhood home of Tenzing Norgay, who was (with Sir Edmund Hillary) one of the first men to climb Mt Everest. The Thame monastery is one of the oldest in the Khumbu region, and is famous for the annual Mani Rimdu festival.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xV7hdvyNPAEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xV7hdvyNPAE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0308.jpgMount Everest TrekA stonemason, sitting next to the monastery of Thame. The stones are handcut into bricks, then used for the construction of dry-stacked house walls.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000KLcMHBmsvhQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000KLcMHBmsvhQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0327.jpgMount Everest TrekCho Oyu (8201m), the sixth highest mountain in the world, seen on the way from Thame to Sunder Peak.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iI9zfGKnvXYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iI9zfGKnvXY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0328.jpgMount Everest TrekThame Teng village is located in the Bothe Koshi Valley, beside the Bothe Koshi River. The valley is located close to the "Nangpa La" pass, which leads to the Tibetan border.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000iAVmnxJgYIwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000iAVmnxJgYIw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0336.jpgMount Everest TrekAs the weather wasn't favorable for trekking, we didn't reach the top of Sunder Peak (5363m). Photo taken during our descent back to Thame. In the background you can see Malanphulan (6571m), Kangtega (6782m) and Thamserku (6623m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ze0uTPU3Z7Ihttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ze0uTPU3Z7I/fit=1000x1000/MG-0381.jpgMount Everest TrekA woman posing near her house in Thame.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000HyHywsecXOchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000HyHywsecXOc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0421.jpgMount Everest TrekThe monastery of Thame, seen on the way from Thame to Syangboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000.S8iTlf3pmghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000.S8iTlf3pmg/fit=1000x1000/MG-0423.jpgMount Everest TrekFor locals, Thamo village is best known for its hydro power plant, which delivers electricity to the major villages in the Khumbu area.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000K..TtRP6Hjohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000K..TtRP6Hjo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0462.jpgMount Everest TrekA boy playing badminton in Khunde while his grandfather is putting down Yak dung on the ground for drying. Starting from Thame early in the morning, we passed Khunde village before leaving for Khumjung.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000BxRL_7Toq08https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000BxRL_7Toq08/fit=1000x1000/MG-0540.jpgMount Everest TrekA Yak along the pathway from Mongla to Portse. According to "Wikipedia" - Yak physiology is well adapted to high altitudes, having larger lungs and heart than cattle found at lower altitudes, as well as greater capacity for transporting oxygen through their blood due to the persistence of foetal haemoglobin throughout life. Conversely, yaks do not thrive at lower altitudes, and begin to suffer from heat exhaustion above about 15 °C (59 °F). Further adaptations to the cold include a thick layer of subcutaneous fat, and an almost complete lack of functional sweat glands.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00001xlt32euA.whttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00001xlt32euA.w/fit=1000x1000/MG-0545.jpgMount Everest TrekField workers between Mongla and Portse. Kangtega (6782m) and Thamserku (6623m) partially visible behind the clouds.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W7QCh39Uc2Yhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W7QCh39Uc2Y/fit=1000x1000/MG-0551.jpgMount Everest TrekPortrait of a girl in Phortse.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I000030gxW_niiUMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I000030gxW_niiUM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0556.jpgMount Everest TrekPhortse with Phari Lapche, also known as Machermo Peak (6017m), in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xNubWaO0XnIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xNubWaO0XnI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0570.jpgMount Everest TrekShortly before sunset we walked up a hill in Phortse and saw this Yak with Thamserku (6623m) in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000vX17DhJsq1Uhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000vX17DhJsq1U/fit=1000x1000/MG-0591.jpgMount Everest TrekTwo girls at the entry of a monastery between Phortse and Pangboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fgizRrBt2bUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000fgizRrBt2bU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0603.jpgMount Everest TrekAma Dablam (6856m), seen from Pangboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000VadOAKHp_LQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000VadOAKHp_LQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0617.jpgMount Everest TrekKids posing in Pangboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000ExB5KGgNIQ8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000ExB5KGgNIQ8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0625.jpgMount Everest TrekA little girl with lollipops in Pangboche. According to "Wikipedia" - Pangboche or Panboche is a village in Khumjung VDC of Solukhumbu District, Nepal at an altitude of 13,074 feet (3,985 m). It is located high in the Himalayas in the Imja Khole valley, about 3 kilometres northeast of Tengboche and is a base camp for climbing nearby Mount Everest and trekking. It contains a monastery, famed for its purported yeti scalp and hand, the latter of which was stolen.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008isq0IJdhHohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008isq0IJdhHo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0653.jpgMount Everest TrekA mani rock near the path leading to Pheriche. The river fork, and the huge wall of Nuptse (7861m) and Lhotse (8516m), visible in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FqHg2kkIzb0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FqHg2kkIzb0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0657.jpgMount Everest TrekThe pastures of Tsuro Og Village and the merging rivers Lobuche Khola and Imja Khola in the center of the picture, seen on the way from Somare to Pheriche with the ridges of Nuptse (7861m) and Lhotse (8516m) visible in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000raQK50lzyzkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000raQK50lzyzk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0674.jpgMount Everest TrekLobuche Khola valley, seen on the way to Pheriche village. In the background Lobuche Peak East (6119m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000p5Lud6gv0bUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000p5Lud6gv0bU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0678.jpgMount Everest TrekA boy looking at us, as we arrive in Pheriche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00008WGhZWu3_XIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00008WGhZWu3_XI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0681.jpgMount Everest TrekYaks grazing in Lobuche Khola Valley, close to Pheriche village. The big mountain right is Lobuche Peak East (6119m). The smallest white mountain in the middle, Cho Oyu (8201m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TutH76QPlskhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TutH76QPlsk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0683.jpgMount Everest TrekA girl posing in Pheriche. Lobuche Khola valley, Lobuche Peak East (6119m) and Cho Oyu's Peak (8201m) in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000f4_3qCV4jb4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000f4_3qCV4jb4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0691.jpgMount Everest TrekThe second mountain from left, partially visible, Cho Oyu (8201m) and Lobuche Peak East (6119m), set behind the Lobuche Khola valley, close to Pheriche village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000x4jFXRFeudkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000x4jFXRFeudk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0696.jpgMount Everest TrekAccording to "Wikipedia" - Pheriche is a village in the Khumbu region of eastern Nepal. Situated at an altitude of about 4,371 m (14,340 ft), above the Tsola River, Pheriche is a popular stop for trekkers and climbers. It is the home of the Himalayan Rescue Association which runs the hospital built in 1975 by the Japanese. Pheriche was primarily a farming village raising potatoes and buckwheat, and keeping yaks. However, now in the summer many of its men are employed by trekkers as guides and bearers.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000RMjMYL1JVFQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000RMjMYL1JVFQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-0699.jpgMount Everest TrekWalking up the hill in Pheriche which leads to the Ama Dablam base camp.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00003UrBLnuBNt0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00003UrBLnuBNt0/fit=1000x1000/MG-0704.jpgMount Everest TrekA chorten close to the path leading from Pheriche to Ama Dablam base camp.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000I.IBEolkrCUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000I.IBEolkrCU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0711.jpgMount Everest TrekOn a hill in Pheriche with view over Lobuche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000PDEFpuXEmvUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000PDEFpuXEmvU/fit=1000x1000/MG-0722.jpgMount Everest TrekA bird sitting on a rock, 3 meter from the camera. Somewhere near the path leading from Pheriche to Thukla.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000A1OEFj6P6hIhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000A1OEFj6P6hI/fit=1000x1000/MG-0726.jpgMount Everest TrekCholatse (6440m) and the moon, seen on the way from Thukla to the thombstone place.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002dYi4ETb870https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002dYi4ETb870/fit=1000x1000/MG-0727.jpgMount Everest TrekMountain scenery with peaks over 6000m. All seen from the Thukla pass, close to the thombstone place. The first from left, Malanphulan (6573m), and the second from the right, Kangtega (6782m), are the only ones with names.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Mc84nrBkQaEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Mc84nrBkQaE/fit=1000x1000/MG-0737.jpgMount Everest TrekFrom the tombstone place to Lobuche with view on Pumori (7161m) and Khangri (6789m) partially visible on the left.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000FNvoxA19kqMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000FNvoxA19kqM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0746.jpgMount Everest TrekOn the way to Lobuche with view on Pumori (7161m) , Lingtren (6714m) and Khumbutse (6636m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000j6_LcAjH3mAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000j6_LcAjH3mA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0751.jpgMount Everest TrekOn the path leading to Lobuche with Lhotse (8516m) in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00002GCG6XPa_CMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00002GCG6XPa_CM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0752.jpgMount Everest TrekA porter carrying baggage. Picture taken on the way to Lobuche, with Lhotse (8516m) in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000QHhURpxApDohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000QHhURpxApDo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0797.jpgMount Everest TrekFrom Lobuche to Gorak Shep with view (from left to right) on: Khumbutse (6636m), Changtse (7543m), the Everest West Shoulder and Nuptse (7861m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000MiGptlu2.nkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000MiGptlu2.nk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0808.jpgMount Everest TrekFrom Gorak Shep to Kala Pattar with view on the Everest West Shoulder, Everest (8850m), Nuptse (7861m), and an avalanche moving down from Nuptse (7861m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000shZm2sCOKsMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000shZm2sCOKsM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0832.jpgMount Everest TrekView from Kala Pattar from south to west. On the left: Cholatse (6440m), Lobuche East (6119m), Lobuche West (6145m), Nirekha (6069m) and the ridge of Chumbu (6859m) on the right.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kBiOuyFFROohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kBiOuyFFROo/fit=1000x1000/MG-0839.jpgMount Everest TrekLooking on the west from the top of Kala Pattar you can see Changtse (7543m) (partially) on the left, the Everest West Shoulder, Everest (8850m), Lhotse (8516m) (partially), and Nuptse (7861m) with a cloud in front of its peak. The Pumori Base Camp is usually set between the two lakes at the bottom of the photo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00009RQ3fjxXBF4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00009RQ3fjxXBF4/fit=1000x1000/MG-0841.jpgMount Everest TrekCécile and André standing on the top of Kala Pattar. With Khumbutse (6636m), Changtse (7543m), Everest West Shoulder, Everest (8850m), Lhotse (8516m) and Nuptse (7861m) in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WYrj4dEIP7ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WYrj4dEIP7g/fit=1000x1000/MG-0868.jpgMount Everest TrekPhoto of Mount Everest (8850m), taken between Kala Pattar and Gorak Shep.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000D2OdgHGWJzchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000D2OdgHGWJzc/fit=1000x1000/MG-0874.jpgMount Everest TrekNuptse (7861m), as seen on the way from Kala Pattar to Gorak Shep.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000TGtURV7DwOwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000TGtURV7DwOw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0885.jpgMount Everest TrekFrom Gorak Shep to Everest Base Camp. From left to right: Khumbutse (6636m) and its ridge, Changtse (7543m), the Everest West Shoulder, Everest (8850m) and a part of Nuptse (7861m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SjXBNe4DtTwhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SjXBNe4DtTw/fit=1000x1000/MG-0939.jpgMount Everest TrekA Dzo caravan walking from Lobuche to Gorak Shep with view on Everest West Shoulder and Nuptse (7861m) in the background.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000AJKtDccqFhAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000AJKtDccqFhA/fit=1000x1000/MG-0957.jpgMount Everest TrekA mountain without name. Seen on the way from Gorak Shep to Lobuche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000IOXoa3Z3Ty8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000IOXoa3Z3Ty8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0963.jpgMount Everest TrekThe Lobuche east camp seen on the way from Lobuche to Thukla. Lobuche is famous for its two peaks, the west summit (6145m) and the east summit (6119m). But according to "Wikipedia" - There are two main peaks, Lobuche Far East and Lobuche East (often mistaken for Lobuche West which is a separate mountain further west).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xmXBr5pubjYhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xmXBr5pubjY/fit=1000x1000/MG-0971.jpgMount Everest TrekAs we were walking from Lobuche to Thukla, we saw two climbers - slightly left from the center, descending the snowy Peak of Lobuche East (6119m).http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000oXzKf.oZkvMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000oXzKf.oZkvM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0988.jpgMount Everest TrekNice views on Khola valley. Photo taken on the way from Thukla to Dingboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kXudsP2YNvkhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kXudsP2YNvk/fit=1000x1000/MG-0993.jpgMount Everest TrekView on Khola valley with Tobuche (6500m), and Cholatse (6440m) on the right. Photo taken on the way from Thukla to Dingboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000WSIOl28VA1khttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000WSIOl28VA1k/fit=1000x1000/MG-1049.jpgMount Everest TrekAma Dablam (6856m) seen from Dingboche. According to "Wikipedia" - The main peak is 6,856 metres (22,493 ft), the lower western peak is 6,170 metres (20,243 ft). Ama Dablam means "Mother's necklace"; the long ridges on each side like the arms of a mother (ama) protecting her child, and the hanging glacier thought of as the dablam, the traditional double-pendant containing pictures of the gods, worn by Sherpa women.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000p8BRUu2mky4https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000p8BRUu2mky4/fit=1000x1000/MG-1059.jpgMount Everest TrekAma Dablam (6856m) at sunset, as seen from Dingboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000NZLGpOhYeoohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000NZLGpOhYeoo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1077.jpgMount Everest TrekLhotse (8516m) and the peak of Chukhung Ri, as seen from Chukhung Village.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00006oj9ZVg3Icohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00006oj9ZVg3Ico/fit=1000x1000/MG-1080.jpgMount Everest TrekTwo porters talking together, somewhere between Dingboche and Somare.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00007UuwoVkc0Rchttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00007UuwoVkc0Rc/fit=1000x1000/MG-1108.jpgMount Everest TrekA male himalayan Tahr, close to the pathway between Somare and Pangboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000SePIS14qppghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000SePIS14qppg/fit=1000x1000/MG-1134.jpgMount Everest TrekA woman combing her hair at a fountain along a path in Pangboche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000u4t4XLSA.mEhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000u4t4XLSA.mE/fit=1000x1000/MG-1147.jpgMount Everest TrekMani stones placed near a chorten and the pathway from Pangboche to Milinggo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000nP0jsDsHDC0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000nP0jsDsHDC0/fit=1000x1000/MG-1148.jpgMount Everest TrekThe two peaks of Ama Dablam (6856m), and a Dzo caravan heading a chorten somewhere between Pangboche and Milinggo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000W.TI.ilLdEohttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000W.TI.ilLdEo/fit=1000x1000/MG-1150.jpgMount Everest TrekThe two peaks of Ama Dablam (6856m), and a Dzo caravan heading a chorten somewhere between Pangboche and Milinggo.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kkSUAyItnrUhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kkSUAyItnrU/fit=1000x1000/MG-1169.jpgMount Everest TrekMani Stones along the path leading from Milinggo to Debuche.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000LBto6w4NJS0https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000LBto6w4NJS0/fit=1000x1000/MG-1192.jpgMount Everest TrekPortrait of a warmly wrapped little boy in Lo Shasa.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I00004TgMgJNPyoshttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I00004TgMgJNPyos/fit=1000x1000/MG-1221.jpgMount Everest TrekA horse eating from a feeding bag "made in Nepal". Picture taken in Namche Bazar.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000T7vv5OOxZIQhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000T7vv5OOxZIQ/fit=1000x1000/MG-1239.jpgMount Everest TrekA girl carrying a basket in Chaurikarkha.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000xPPbxgZ_vRAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000xPPbxgZ_vRA/fit=1000x1000/MG-1243.jpgMount Everest TrekPortrait of a woman in Chaurikarkha.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000gTUcS6s159Qhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000gTUcS6s159Q/fit=1000x1000/MG-0804.jpgPhewa Lake in PokharaColourful wooden boats on Phewa Lake, located in Pokhara Valley.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000kz6IIJCDUMMhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000kz6IIJCDUMM/fit=1000x1000/MG-0709.jpgSadhus in KathmanduTwo Sadhus sitting on a temple stairs in Durbar Square, Kathmandu.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000GDjqrqICx7ghttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000GDjqrqICx7g/fit=1000x1000/MG-0798.jpgPokharaWaving ladies sitting in the back of a pickup along a street in Pokhara.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000Lqg63elJvI8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000Lqg63elJvI8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0805.jpgPoinsettia tree in PokharaPoinsettia trees, best known as Christmas flowers in many countries, flowering along Phewa Lake.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000mPLo8ODlfighttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000mPLo8ODlfig/fit=1000x1000/MG-1233.jpgMadhyapur ThimiA street scene in Madhyapur Thimi, also called Thimi, once the fourth largest city in Kathmandu Valley.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000k1.kPL8t7TAhttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000k1.kPL8t7TA/fit=1000x1000/MG-1465.jpgBoudhanath Stupa in KathmanduThe Buddhist stupa of Boudhanath, lit by the morning sun.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000hKCXDm1eTI8https://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000hKCXDm1eTI8/fit=1000x1000/MG-0298.jpgGirl fishing at BattambangA young girl fishing in the rice fields along the road.http://fotoalbum.photoshelter.com/image/I0000DFzlfNU017Ahttps://ssl.c.photoshelter.com/img-get2/I0000DFzlfNU017A/fit=1000x1000/MG-0309.jpgGirl fishing at BattambangDuring the dry season i saw many children fishing in the flooded rice fields, athough the monsoon season is considered to be the best time for rice field fishing.