
I’ve been back in the US since June, slowly re-acclimating. This week I visited the Portland Japanese Garden with a friend. The weather was cool and pleasant – perfect for strolling. The lush, impeccably maintained gardens are a marvel of peace and beauty. They’re designed to give visitors a better understanding of Japanese culture. Founded […]

On May 19, Istanbul was buzzing – especially Taksim Square. In Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Commemoration of Atatürk, Youth and Sports Day is an official holiday. For years, the holiday was called “Youth and Sports Day“. In 1981, the Turkish National Security Council and UNESCO dedicated the entire year to Atatürk. […]

Hamams and spas have become an important part of my travels. After a few months on the move, they help revitalize and rejuvenate the body, relieving stiffness and muscle tension. Although I’ve enjoyed several traditional Turkish hamams, this time, I opted for a more modern version. Massage & Body Scrub I discovered a spa inside […]
Oh thank you for the reblog. Such striking photos.