The Reichstag is where Germany’s Federal Parliament (Bundestag) sits. The last meeting here was in 1933 and returned in the spring of 1999. British architect Sir Norman Foster was behind the transformation that included a striking glass dome addition. The cupola or dome is now a Berlin landmark and it signalled a new era of modern architecture in the city. Ramps on the dome lead to an observation deck – it symbolizes the people ascending above the heads of their representatives in the chamber. At its core is a light sculptor that reflects natural light into the chamber, while a…
Category: Architecture
The Jordaan
Developed in the 17th century, the Jordaan was once a working-class neighbourhood in Amsterdam that has become gentrified and fashionable with a number of antique stores, galleries, cafes, restaurants and designer shops. The area still retains its network of maze-like streets, courtyards and canals. There’s not a lack of interesting store-front windows in this neighbourhood!
Paro
Paro Valley (Elev 2280m) is one hour west of Thimphu and is my last stop in Bhutan. Several treks begin in or near Paro. The charming small town of Paro lies on the banks of the Paro Chhu (river). My two-hour hike today started from where I am staying at Uma, Paro – up along the forested hillside of a narrow path to Zuri Dzong and slight downhill to the National Museum.
Bangkok
Sawadee! After a 15.5 hour flight to Hong Kong and connecting to another 2.25 hour flight – I arrive in the “Land of Thousand Smiles” — Thailand. As I exit Customs, I see a man holding a sign with my last name and flight number. I approached him as I have arranged for a car to take me to my hotel in the city centre. After he welcomes me, he tells me that he is ready to take me to Pattaya, which is a beach city on the eastern seaboard that is around two hours away! After much discussion (and…
where's gary 