Cologne, Germany, is a vibrant city with a rich history that spans over 2,000 years. Founded in the 1st century AD as the Roman Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium, it grew from a Roman settlement into a major medieval trading hub and today stands as the fourth-largest city in Germany, with about 1.1 million residents in the city proper. From Amsterdam we sailed upriver to Cologne, Germany.
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city steeped in history, culture and vibrant modern life. Originally a small fishing village in the 12th century, Amsterdam rapidly grew into a major port and commercial hub during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, becoming one of the world’s foremost centers for finance, trade and art. Its’ iconic canal ring was largely constructed during this period, shaping the city’s distinctive layout and charm.
Random photos come up either with our mirror-less cameras or with an iPhone when not traveling. They are rarely our best photos but remind us of everyday life around our home. Each day we take a morning walk and along the way we will stumble across something interesting. With every season something new presents itself. One of us usually has a camera or their phone everywhere we go and ready to snap a picture of something interesting. We like the spontaneity, often using natural light and avoiding flash to keep the moment genuine. It’s about being open to capturing interesting scenes or moments that arise unexpectedly, whether during a walk, a drive, or any other activity. Often, because of the spontaneity, the photos are not the sharpest or best composed or have the best lighting, but they capture the moment.
Valley of Fire State Park is nestled in the heart of Nevada. It is a breathtaking testament to the power of nature. With its otherworldly landscapes, vibrant rock formations, and rich history, this park is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast or nature lover. Last time we were here was with my sister in 2018. From Cedar City, Utah it was about a 3-hour drive. We stopped in Overton, Nevada at the Inside Scoop for lunch.
Cedar Breaks National Monument is similar to Bryce Canyon National Park, but on a smaller scale. We were there in the fall of 2018. This time, a surprise late fall storm brought about 6 inches of snow, making for stunning pictures against the colorful sandstone rock.
Escalante is a small city with less than 800 people, located in the central southern part of Utah. It can be overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Escalante offers a unique and awe-inspiring experience for adventurous travelers.
