Spectacular natural beauty. Flåm, Norway

By the time I was studying in Denmark, I had the chance to visit the so called Nordic Countries. The Nordic Rail Pass was my great tool, since was I free to discover by train or boat every single corner of these magic countries. The World famous railway and the Beautiful Flåm in Norway were part of my discoveries. Flåm is situated in the innermost part of the Aurlandsfjord, a tributary of the 204 kilometers long and up to 1308 meters deep Sognefjord. Surrounded by steep mountainsides, roaring waterfalls and deep valleys, Flåm is a paradise for everyone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience with nature. With nature-based activities, many nearby attractions, exciting culture and historic traditions - Flåm is the perfect holiday spot for all! From Flåm Port and the many fjord boats it is only a short walk to a trip on the famous Flåm Railway, or maybe a stay at one of Fjord Norway's long-established tourist hotels. The world’s longest fjord adventure, the Sognefjord, lies in the heart of the Norwegian fjord country and extends more than 200 km (120 miles) inland. The region where this deep fjord meets the glaciers and Norway’s highest mountains is considered one of the world's most beautiful travel destinations. At the end of the Sognefjord you will find Flåm Camping and Youth Hostel, were I slept. This place is surrounded by the World Heritage Listed fjordlandscape of Norway. Flåm is a paradise for everyone looking for genuine natural and cultural experiences. The name "Flåm" means "little place between steep mountains," and at the end of the 1800's many cruise ships with travelers from all over the world found their way here to experience Norwegian fjords, mountains and waterfalls. After the Bergensbanen railway was opened in 1909, Flåm became a crossroad for passengers, mail and freight to and from the trains between Oslo and Bergen, in connection with the steamships on the fjord. The old Navy road from Haugastøl and Finse down to Flåm – Rallarvegen has now become an attraction in itself, with thousands of cyclists every summer and autumn. To get to Flåm we experienced the World famous railway. The over 65 year old Flåm Railway is widely known as one of the world's most fantastic stretches of railroad. On this amazing journey you will experience a climb of nearly 900 meters from fjord to mountain top, an incline of one to 18, a tunnel that twists in a spiral inside the mountain, and a view that will take your breath away! As a private branch line of the Bergensbanen railway, the Flåm Railway runs 9-10 daily departures in the high season from May to September and 4-5 daily departures the rest of the year. You can learn more about the exciting history behind this 20 kilometre long stretch of railway by visiting the Flåmsbana Museum in Flåm, a tiny little place full of nice stories.

Koi carp. Japan, Tokyo

Probably surprising to many westerners is the large amount of myth surrounding these beautiful fish. It is known outside Japan as the brightly colored white, golden, orange and even calico colored fish which fascinate private collectors but which can also be found in public ponds. I took this Picture in my hotel’s garden in Tokyo since we can find them everywhere. Although with a Chinese in origin, the carp in Japan is celebrated for its manly qualities. It is said to climb waterfalls bravely, and, if caught, it lies upon the cutting board awaiting the knife without a quiver - not unlike a samurai facing a sword. This theme dates back to ancient China, where a legend tells of how any koi that succeeded in climbing the falls at a point called Dragon Gate (on the Yellow River) would be transformed into a dragon. Thus it became a symbol of worldly aspiration and advancement shared by all. Eventually, the stoic fish came to be associated with so many masculine and positive qualities that it was appropriated for the annual Boys' Day Festival in Japan when colorful, streaming koi flags are traditionally displayed for each son in the family. In tattoo imagery, especially in combination with flowing water, it symbolizes much the same - courage, the ability to attain high goals, and overcoming life's difficulties. I may decide to have a carp tattoo one of these days.

Unstoppable sunset. Golf of Finland, Sweden/ Finland

A few years ago I took an overnight boat to Turku, Finland, from Stockholm, Sweden. Sometimes, taking a boat is just a mean of transportation, something that we have to do to reach a specific place. In the Golf of Finland, is something more. At the time, I was amazed with the boat, since it was a large ferry, more like a cruise ship, or a floating commercial moll, with glass elevators and fancy stores. Even with all this extreme luxury, I was traveling with a Nordic Rail Pass, so the price was not much. The boat leaves Stockholm in the end of the afternoon and arrives to Finland – Turku, in the morning. The ferry ride was absolutely spectacular with a perfect sunset across the Gulf of Finland. The sea is very calm and quit, and on the way, we see always land or little islands. Charming red and yellow wood paneled houses rest on small rock islands, with only the sea’s pounding waves to remind us of their impermanence Each little island viewed from the deck of the ferry liner offers a glimpse into how the Finnish live, and it isn’t until Turku comes into view that the pulse of Finland’s atmosphere can be felt. At about 9 pm I was laid down on a deck long chair watching the story-book island vistas go by completed by a background of a perpetual sunset. Small villages were tucked away on the archipelago, all with sailing boats parked in their docks and once it got dark their lights made it all the more magical. Apart from the cold breeze, I stand outside with my camera to catch the magical moment of this photography. I managed to scrape together a few precious hours sleep on the ferry before making into Turku in Finland by 8 am. Once there, I caught the bus into the fresh looking local town square that had a massive market bustling. I felt the atmosphere of a revolution, that, in the end, was just the evidences of a long party night celebrating the Labor’s Days (1st of May): empty bottles on the ground, people slipping on the gardens and, still, open bars for the last beer. About the unknown Turku! I must say that the riverside city is the oldest in Finland and was once the country’s capital city. It boasts a beautiful medieval castle, the impressive Luostarinmaki Handicrafts Museum, a fine cathedral and stylish boat restaurants. Don’t miss the four museum ships anchored on the banks of the Aurajoki River in the city center. The beautiful Sigyn in particular is well worth a visit. The Sibelius Museum is the most comprehensive musical museum in Finland exhibiting memorabilia of the famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius and showcasing more than 300 musical instruments from around the world. One of the most superb archipelagos in Europe opens up from the coast of Turku and stretches way out into the Baltic Sea. Take a boat from Turku and enjoy a day trip around the islands or, for a more unusual experience, enjoy a meal at one of the floating restaurants on the Aurajoki River or around the kauppatori (market square) back on dry land or even take in a performance of the Turku Philharmonic Orchestra – one of the oldest in Europe – at the Concert Hall. That’s your choice, but, please, don’t miss it.

Cruising the 'River of Gold'. Douro, Portugal

The Douro River and its Valley is one of the most beautiful, unspoilt and fascinating regions of Europe - so much so that the valley has been declared a Unesco world heritage site. The River Douro rises in Spain and flows more or less East – West across Northern Portugal reaching the sea at Portugal’s second city, Oporto. Once a fast flowing river of rapids and narrow ravines it has been tamed over the past 25 years by the construction of 8 dams along its length giving it, in most places, a tranquil, lake-like appearance. The valley is spectacularly beautiful with the hills falling steeply down to the water´s edge becoming more and more sparsely populated and wild the further inland one travels, with more of the land being given over to terraces of vines and, to a lesser extent, olive groves. This is port country and was, in fact, the world’s first demarcated wine region being established in 1756. Evidence of the port industry can be seen along the valley with all the famous company names – Cockburn’s, Taylor’s, Sandeman and others – appearing on large placards on the hillsides. The colour of the land changes throughout the year as the vines mature and the nature grows. February and March though also see the almond trees in blossom, June-July, the green of the vignards is remarcable, September – October, the reds and browns are the kings. Generally, though, there is little in the way of developed tourism, visitors are comparatively few and, as far as crowds are concerned, getting around is fairly easy. However, the roads zigzagging up and down the mountainsides and between the tributary valleys can be difficult driving but it does offer fantastic unspoilt scenery. More relaxing modes of transport are available, however. A good way to visit it is by a river cruise. This option combines delightful scenery with rural, unspoilt villages and towns and an opportunity to visit the great cities of Porto. In the way it is also possible to visit restored palaces, places of pilgrimage, cultural centers and vineyards. A boat journey takes you on a wonderfully scenic path, through deep cleft gorges terraced with thousands of vineyards, past sleepy fishing villages and through a tranquil countryside of almond and citrus trees. Apart from the port, the excellent Douro wines, both white and red, make excellent accompaniments to the food of the region. Whilst fresh fish is readily available (just as it is everywhere in Portugal) here the meats of the interior start to come into their own with excellent smoked hams and some spicy sausages.

Uniquely Singapore. Little India, Singapore

If there is one word that best captures Singapore, it is “unique”. A dynamic city rich in contrast and colors. Singapore is a harmonious blend of cultures, cuisines, arts and architectures, inspired by Asia. Brimming with unbridled energy, this little dynamic place in Southeast Asia embodies the finest of both East and West. Even If you only have a single day, a visit to Singapore will take you from the past to the future, from exotic ethnic enclave to efficient business centre, from serene gardens to sleek skyscrapers. The earliest known mention of Singapore was a 3rd century Chinese account which described Singapore as "Pu-luo-chung" ("island at the end of a peninsula"). Little is known about the island's history at that time but this matter-of-fact description belies Singapore's colourful past. By the 14th century, Singapore had become part of the mighty Sri Vijayan Empire and was known as Temasek ("Sea Town"). Located at the natural meeting point of sea routes at the tip of the Malay Peninsula, Singapore had long known visits from a wide variety of sea craft, from Chinese junks, Indian vessels, Arab dhows and Portuguese battleships to Bulginess schooners. During the 11th century, this small but strategically-placed island had earned a new name - "Singa Pura" ("Lion City"). According to legend, a visiting Sri Vijayan prince saw an animal he mistook for a lion and Singapore's modern day name was born. The British provided the next notable chapter in the Singapore story. During the 18th century, they saw the need for a strategic "halfway house" to refit, feed and protect the fleet of their growing empire, as well as to forestall any advances by the Dutch in the region. Five centuries later, it was again the scene of significant fighting during World War II. Singapore was considered an impregnable fortress, but the Japanese overran the island in 1942. After the war, Singapore became a Crown Colony. The growth of nationalism led to self-government in 1959 and on 9 August 1965, Singapore became an independent republic. In just 150 years, Singapore has grown into a thriving centre of commerce and industry. Its former role as an entrecote has diminished, as the nation has increased its manufacturing base. Singapore is the busiest port in the world with over 600 shipping lines sending super tankers, container ships and passenger liners to share the busy waters with coastal fishing vessels and wooden lighters. One of the world's major oil refining and distribution centers, Today, Singapore is a major supplier of electronic components and a leader in shipbuilding and repairing. It has also become one of the most important financial centers of Asia, with more than 130 banks. Business dealings are facilitated by Singapore's superb communications network which links the nation to the rest of the world via satellite, 24-hour telegraph and telephone systems. But what most surprised me besides this entire amazing story, and today’s technologies, were the Ethnic quarters, that stills exists today as they were in the past: Little India, Chinatown and Geylang Serai, the cultural heart of the Malay community in Singapore. As you step into Little India, be prepared for an assault on the senses! You will be greeted by the strong, heady scent of spices and jasmine garlands, followed by the treasure trove of silverware, brassware, wood carvings and colorful silk saris, dazzling to behold. The first Indian settlers in Singapore arrived with Sir Stamford Raffles as assistants and soldiers back in 1819. In the late 19th century, many more Indian immigrants arrived to find work, be it as laborers to build roads or to take up key positions in the civil service. Today, Little India is the focal point of Singapore's Indian community. From the large Tekka Centre and Little India Arcade to the small provision shops, Little India is packed with interesting things to discover. During Deepavali (usually between Oct/Nov), the Indian Festival of Lights, Little India is transformed into a fairyland of gaily decorated, brightly lit streets bustling with shoppers. Witness also the faith of devotees during the colourful and ritualistic Thaipusam in Jan/Feb each year. Colorful temples like this one in the photo co-exist side by side with churches and mosques, parrot fortune tellers stationed by the five-foot way and tantalizing scents of spices drifting out from restaurants. Don’t leave Little India without a temporary Henna tattoo or try “Teh Tarik”, a hand pulled cup of tea. (www.visitsingapore.com).

The Patagonia lands: from Argentina to Chile

This photo is from Patagonia lands, from the road that leads to the border of Chile, not far from Puerto Natales. This is the place where the geography of the big spaces has a lot to say. Patagonia is the wild, wind swept region of southern Argentina and Chile that makes up the southern cone of the South American continent. Chile’s portion of Patagonia is even more inhabitable. Mountains and glaciers crash into each amid sheltered bays and lush green forests. The southern half is unconnected by road from the north, therefore ferries, planes, or a detour into Argentina is necessary if traveling the length of the region. You can traverse the northern half along the Carretera Austral, the wild highway that is impassable for much of the year that passes through temperate rainforest, snow covered mountains, and glaciers. The distances are enormous, the winds are free to run and our spirits felt the same, a huge space to breath.

Seascape in the Atlantic Ocean, Berlengas Islands, Portugal

Seascape is beautiful everywhere we go. If your guess about this photo is Thailand or some tropical place of the south in a rainy day, you are totally wrong! This photo was taken in my way to a small group of islands known has Estelas, part of the Berlengas Archipelago. The Berlengas Archipelago is a group of very small islands off the Portuguese coast near the city of Peniche, at 10 to 15 km. In the larger island (Berlenga Grande) there is an ancient fort and a lighthouse. Nowadays, the archipelago has no permanent population. The ancient defense fort is now partially converted into a simple rest house. As the archipelago has been declared a reservation area due to the local fauna (sea birds, mostly), it is only visited by scientists and, in the summer, by a small number of tourists, mostly divers enthusiasts. Berlenga Grande, or just Ilha da Berlenga, is the most visited by all. It is a small territory with is 1500 meters per 800 meters at 85 meters high. In this small island there are two small beaches and several caves, its waters are very clean with barrier reefs and vibrant marine life. Part of the island was ripped off in the past, forming a separated part of the island called Ilha Velha (Old Island). In the summer, the island becomes filled with various sorts of flowers and birds. This territory is now under strict rules of preservation, once it a National Natural Park. I use to go there with my friends at least once per year when I was a kid. The ferry was really an adventure for all, since the Atlantic sea is strong. The most part of the time, after passing the protection of the Carvoeiro Cape, the famous Caboavelar Pessoa (the only old ferry) start moving with the waves and everybody get sea sick. Now is different, several companies are available to get to Berlengas, safe and comfortable. Last year I was lucky to go to the island with group of sea divers and visit the small Estelas, a place not easy to get by a common visitor.