23-08-2010

Thailand. Chiang Mai. Maeram
Historically, women of the The Kayan Lahwi (Padaung) tribe wear rings that elongate their necks. In Thailand, one can see the Burmanese women that follow this tradition in several villages, including Maeram near Chiang Mai.

07-08-2010

Austria. Wachau. Duernstein
Vintage wines are not the sole attraction of the old Austrian castle Kellerschloessl (the Wine Cellar) in Duernstein. The castle’s interior boasts pieces of art — humorous as well as truly realistic — most of which, of course, depict the life of the Wachau wine-making region.

24-07-2010

Canary Islands. Tenerife. Buenavista del Norte
Canarian traditional pastries are best to taste in El Aderno pastry shop in Buenavista del Norte. It is considered to be one of the best bakeries in Tenerife — it even caters for the Spanish royal family!

11-07-2010

Peru. Arequipa. Santa Catalina Monastery
Àt their daughter’s entrance to Santa Catalina Monastery (Monasterio de Santa Catalina) the richest Spanish families paid a dowry of up to 2,400 silver coins (currently equivalent to US $50,000). Today, approximately 20 nuns live behind the brightly painted walls of the convent and the rest of the territory is open to public.

25-06-2010

Myanmar (Burma)
Looking at idyllic sceneries, ancient Buddhist temples and bright clothes of the Burmans, it’s easy to forget of the rough fate endured by this country, presently under military rule. Up till now Myanmar (the country’s official name endorsed by the UN) is referred to as Burma by many states that reject the name change made by the military regime in 1989.