Throwback Taipei
I'm going back to Taipei soon for a few days so I decided to share some images of the city from previous trips. I do like a lot this place, it is organized, green, modern, old and the food is cheap and amazing!
A morning in Poon Hill
Last year I was lucky to go with the lads for a nice hike to Poon hill in Nepal. The hike itself is very fun, lots of ups and downs, hot weather and AMAZING views. To kick start the blog again I want to share pretty much the main reason for us to be there, the view of the Anapurna range in the morning, enjoy! (and imagine you are there in the cool morning wind with a hot coffee)
Kimchi Slap!! Hanbok, pork and other experiences in Seoul
Eid break in the UAE and we didn't really have plans to go anywhere in specific but South Korea has been in my radar for long and this seemed like the perfect opportunity! 10 Days there and we planned to visit Seoul, Jeju Island and Busan.
I was not really sure what to expect from Korea other than another super modern Asian city but I was surprised by the nature, food and people. One of the best trips I had in long time, pork and Soju galore! Enjoy the pics :)
Ramadan charm - the old Dubai
It is that time of the year again when the town is pretty much dead during daytime and comes back to life after the sun is down and energy is recovered. Yes, it is Ramadan (or well, it is almost over now) and I wanted to go downtown and try to capture the vibe of old Dubai, which is a good contrast to the flashy and over the board newer areas.
As expected, things were quiet before iftar but it was interesting to see the area almost empty and helped me to get the "before and after" feeling I was looking for. These streets are rarely like this during normal days, even with the thermometer marks 40+ degrees!
Anticipation is visible as everyone is gathering around the local coffee stalls and shops, most of them have water and small snack just ready to eat right after the sunset. Very understandable if you have been working all day wihtout water or food. That's raw will power.
After having our own Afghani meal for iftar, we continued our seach for good shots. It was a complete atmosphere transformation! in a few minutes, streets were full with life, colors and languages from everywhere. I can say I was missing it... all except the street "business man" trying to sell you literally everything.
From spices to visas and new business paperwork, you can find it all here. I think I would not be surprised if one day I see a taco stand around!
The night scenery along the creek is one of the most authentic you will find in Dubai. This area does not only several Mosques but there are some Hindu temples. It is very interesting to see both cultures mix and even some days the Hindu temple provides Iftar for free to anyone that wants to join. I guess this is how people should behave everywhere, everytime.
With this I conclude my tour, I hope the images are able to transmit the feeling of old Dubai :) I was happy that I got a few favourites during this photowalk and definetely will come back for more a bit later once the weather is a bit more frienly!
2016, another year and I cannot believe I did not followed up my resolutions (again)
Well, 2017 is already here and yes I do feel terrible. Don't get me wrong, 2016 was an amazing year for me in terms of travel, photography and other opportunities but definitely feel bad for not following up one of my resolutions which was to keep up with my blog.
The time goes by and it becomes increasingly difficult to do it, with work and routine and one thousand excuses. But at least after this year I can say that I realize that those are only excuses and that I should've not let this happened. I guess that is good as lesson learned.
This is one of the most complicated things in photography, at least for me. I love to experience and capture moments but for some reason sharing them becomes something complicated... maybe I want it to be perfect so I ended up not meeting my own expectations and deciding to leave it for later. I think I just need to change my mindset to "just do it" and stop worrying so much.
Last week I had the chance to attend the GPP 2017 opening presentations and I quite liked the one from Zack Arias. Beside of actually feeling identified with a lot of the issues he was going through I liked a lot his idea of just getting to work to get inspiration, from the work itself instead of the other way around. I think it makes a lot of sense since based on experience... the other way does not work at all :)
So, few changes are coming to my life once again so I will try to tackle them positively and actually take full advantage. The photography scene is way more vibrant here in Dubai than Abu Dhabi so I will try to join to all those events, maybe something goods come out of it.
Oh! Bangkok... you were calling me back for so long!
Bangkok is definitely one of the most exiting cities of the world. Old traditions mixed with the fantastic and futuristic Asian malls, craziness and chaos on the street or the posh clubs, it really has everything that anyone would like. This time I had a chance of spending there a few days while on my way to Myanmar. To be honest you will find excellent reviews of what to do and where to go all over the place, I just want to share some of my clicks from those days. Let me know what you think.
Crazy traffic.... a regular day. Fuji x100s f5.6 1/4000 sec iso 800
Bangkok Central World and surroundingsare prefect for a stroll and have a glimpse of the city. Like any busy part of any city, traffic here is brutal, street vendors are all over the place and even some wigs to go! don't forget great chances to eat great food!
One of the most interesting things here in BKK is how you can see the monks walking around all over the city which offers a contrast with both old and new traditions, craziness and serenity as well
This time the new and modern Bangkok was a refreshing experience for me, last time I was here I did not have the chance to be in this part of the city and I was quite impressed (plus, make sure you visit the "Korean town" and eat in one of the fabulous restaurants there!). But of course no visit is complete until you go to the proper old town and pay your respects to the old temples and Buddha statues all over the place
During this short visit I wanted to go to Wat Pho again, this time I was armed with my Voigtlander ultra wide lens, something that I had not the chance last time I was here. If you know anything about What Pho, this is where one of the biggest reclining Buddha is. And yes it seems that it is completely covered in a gold layer. A truly amazing sight and even better picture with the right tools.
Wat Pho is incredible beautiful with its collection of buildings ands gardens, amazing for a couple of hours walk and chill. Be sure to pack some water and a towel in case you visit during the hot months, it can be quite toasty!
All was worth when I got to see the statue of Buddha again inside the Viharn Phranorn, such impressive place. Unfortunately Buddha's feet was being cleaned so I could not take the picture I was hoping for but got a couple of interesting shots. Not so bad for a 15 m high and 46 m long statue, one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand
You can spend some time checking out the statue, paying respects or paying money dropping little coins which help support the temple. Once you are done I seriously recommend you to go to the far end of the temple. Wat Pho is considered the first university in Thailand both for religious and body studies. This is pretty much the place were the famous Thai Massage was born. You can get a proper massage for a very good price, the perfect way to end the visit.
After checking out the temple, take a quick tour over the chao praya river. For a few bhats you will be able to ride the ferry and see some more temples and interesting buildings along the way. One of my favourite pictures is from the end of the cruise.
The last part of the trip was a lovely dinner, night stroll and a great drink in the tallest rooftop bar in Bangkok. Again, an amazing combination of experiences in just a few days, from modern to traditional. I hope you like the few pics of this great mix and make sure to make Bangkok a stop in any trip to south east Asia, you won't be disappointed!
Cambodia short and sweet: part 2
After the stopover in Phnom Phen it was time to go to the main destination: Siem Reap. A city that just exploded thanks to its convenient location close to Angkor Wat, started as the clasic backpacker and adventure seekers paradise until the hordes of Chinese tourist, 5 stars hotels and even a hard rock café arrived into town. It is pretty much getting gentrified.
I first visited the city around 3 years ago and you could see where it was going. However I'm happy to day that at least all the new things add options to the experience to cater everyone.
We stayed at the Chateau d' Angkor: La Residence, and amazing old building remodeled as hotel Apartments, not a budget accommodation but definitely worth the money specially while traveling with a group. Huge living room with kitchen, washing machine and 2 big bedrooms all air conditioned. That is very important specially during may, even with the experience of living in in the middle east I found the weather something to be ready for.
What to do in Siem Reap?
I'm sure you will find tons of reviews and examples but here goes my list for a chilled 3 day trip, without rushing too much (or at all)
Angkor Wat and ruins
Arrive early! Leave slightly late! Particularly true for Angkor Wat. The sunrise is amazing and something really to be experienced. I recommend you to get a spot by the left pond. May is not precisely the high season, we woke up at 4:30 a.m. and still had to fight a bit for a spot. If you are doing this I recommend you to get your ticket one day before since the ticket office is not open before 5 a.m. plus this will allow you to go and *try* to enjoy the sunset over there for free but beware, official entry to the place ends around 5:30 so if you arrive around that time you will be denied the entrance. I don't want to encourage people getting in without permission but if you stay around for a but you may be able to snap a good pic without tourist at the entrance! Quite a feat to be honest.
I find Angkor Thom and Ta Phrom amazing but the hordes of tourists can make the experience a bit of a disaster. And remember I was there during low season. I read somewhere a good advice: start the farther away you can and then make your way towards Angkor Wat, this way you will beat the tourists and possibly enjoy some temples for yourself.
Photo advice: a wide or ultra wide angle is definitely a must for those huge temples and landscapes. Last time my Sigma 24-70mm was not wide enough for the job. I used this time the Voightlander 15mm and it was great! Tripod only recommended during sunset and sunrise sessions as it is really tiring to be carrying things around. You can leave it in your tuk tuk or taxi.
King Road and night market
Fruit juice anyone?
A great to spend an evening before heading for some food, here you will be able to find all kind of the cheap (and no so cheap) souvenirs that you may be looking for. I highly recommend to look for the foot massage at one of the corners where they employ visually impaired guys for the job. Besides of helping them I can guarantee you that all the temple run aches!
Pub Street
What would be a good backpacker destination with a decent street where you can drink until you forget you are in Asia? Pub street does the job quite good and although I think that it is not what it used to - since more upscale restaurants are opening - just throw some good company and a few buckets and you will have a night to remember - or not.
Apsaras dancing
I'll go to the point here. DO not waste your time or money in any of those buffet dances that you can find around the city. Go straight to the Temple bar in front of Angkor What bar before 7:30 p.m. order some decent food, a drink and enjoy the dance. It will never be as good as the one they perform in Bali or other regions but if you are short of time it is perfect and really enjoyable.
History Museum, John McDermott gallery and the little red fox cafe
Just to finish, I suggest these destinations daytime, specially if it is too hot to be outside. The museum is quite impressive and will help you learn more about Angkor and the civilization that built it, lots of stuff to see there. I really recommend to visit the McDermott gallery. He really did a great job with his pictures, portraying a truly bygone time. Way before the temples had signs, stairs and wooden protections he was able to capture stunning images and some with crazy mediums like infrared film.
The little red fox cafe, extremely recommended for a nice break, awesome coffee and cookies. Go for the slow dripping coffee or some other of their ultra hipster delicatessen :)
Well, it took me forever to finish this post but I hope you find the info and the pictures useful. I will post more soon! what do you think?
Transmission from the road: Cambodia short and sweet: part 1
A bit of city Madness. Fuji X100s
Luck was on my side and I was able to plan a short escapade from the desert. The idea was to make Myanmar the highlight of the trip but due to logistic reasons we ended up adding Cambodia and Thailand to the mix, not a complain of course.
The trip started with a quick stop in Phnom Phen and stayed at the vacation boutique hotel very near to the river and the rest of the downtown, a place totally recommended for the price.
Keep it clean.
Phnom Penh was only a short stop before heading to Siem Reap so I was not expecting a lot of it other than good opportunities for street photography. Usually capital cities are just a bit too much of a mess to enjoy in short time but I'm happy to say that even and evening alone was good and very enjoyable. If you stay in downtown close to the river you have access to all the fun at a walking distance.
Hotel was almost as good as sleeping on a tuk tuk. Fuji X100s
Happy Herb Pizza. Surprisingly good
Up for a little adventure and following my friends advice, we decided to have some pizza. Yes, you may be thinking that is a waste but this was special happy pizza. Readily available pretty much everywhere you can ask for the special green condiment to be added :) I suggest it completely, happy ride.
Beautiful sunset over the river. Fuji X100s f2 1/75s iso 400
After much needed food a nice stroll was the best decision, just follow the river (Preah Sisowat Quay St.) and you will be able to find a couple of gems like Wat Ounalom, the Royal palace and the dreamland Park.
A shiny sign for the king at the park. Fuji X100s f2 1/40s iso 2500
Ramen stand? Fuji X100s f2 1\40s iso 2500
It goes without saying that a visit to the night market is mandatory, crazy smells, colorfull shops and lots of cheap stuff. Not one of the best I've seen (Taiwan) but definitely worth a visit.
Fashionistas won't be disappointed. Fuji X100s f2 1/40s iso 2500
Night madness. Fuji X100s f2 1/40s iso 2500
After all it ended being nice stop over, totally recommended for one or two days and I'm glad we did it. Stay tuned for some more of Cambodia, after all Siem Reap is the place to be experienced.
Hanging out with the monks. Fuji X100s f2 1/40s iso 2500
The LIWA experience
This last weekend I had the chance to visit the Liwa oasis, which is part of the Rub' al Khali desert. Being part of the biggest continuous sand desert in the world, you can imagine the landscape is amazing and somewhat unreal, to add to it this is close to where the new Stars Wars movie was filmed. Here you have some of the highlights!
It is easy to reach there, approximately 2.5 hrs from Abu Dhabi using the highway. Needless to say, this is only the start of the desert, if you want to adventure further a guide and a few proper 4x4 would be necessary.
The dunes do look big from the base, but it is only when you try to climb them up when you realize how tall and difficult it actually is. If you add the ultra soft sand then you will have the perfect workout for the morning. Going up, I was able to take pictures from different angles with different results on the colors on sand as the sun was rising.
It took us around 25 minutes to reach the top, you can see how tiny the rest of the group and cars looks in those pictures which were not even took from the top.
Definitely a very good experience to take advantage from before the weather goes too hot. The night was quiet and cool with a bit of breeze that helped with the fire for the food. If you want to reach to the same spot, take the road to Qasr al Sarab and just continue for a few minutes after the hotel. Recoomended a good 4x4 even if you are not planning to bash the dunes!
A new favorite place for pictures
Even before moving to Abu Dhabi the Sheik Zyed Grand Mosque was high on my list of places to visit in the UAE. A lot of my friend that had a chance to be be here told me how and beautiful it is and seriously, they were right, check it out!
The Grand Moque, after sunset. Sony A7, Voiglander 15mm f11
The mosque just opened in 2007, and its amazing Mughal/Moorish architecture really matches with the "classic" picture of what Arabia should like. The whole area is really big, and I'm sure the Atrium can hold thousands of people, excluding the inside which is also pretty big. d
Beautiful Glass. Sony A7, Zeiss 55mm f1.8
Aside the size of the Mosque, I believe its symmetry and beauty is what makes me want to come back and try to get better shots every time. I guess that a visit during early morning will be a very peaceful photo session. probably will try next time.
If you plan to visit, please bear in mind that the basic clothing rules for religious places apply here, girls need to be covered, including their heads and no shorts, tank tops, etc... It could actually be a good experience for some as you can get to borrow either an Abaya (for girls) or a Kandoora or Thobe (for guys) so you can check the Mosque in the local style!
Burning that 2015!
Yes, another year that is gone, but that only means that a new one has arrived full of opportunities and new adventures! This year I decided to give Dubai another chance after the let down that was 2 years ago, when I had to fight my way on the Metro, trying to reach Palm Jumeira and I had my countdown to 2014 in a shuttle bus...
The idea was to spend new year's eve with some friends close to the creek, dinner drinks and easy to access to a balcony with an amazing view of the Burj and the downtown skyline. I prepared my setup knowing that the drinks from the party would definitely hinder my skills (if there are any) to take the picture I wanted. An yet... Dubai did it again.
That smoke is certainly not from the fireworks. This was taken at the beginning of the show (i think...)
I got to hear the news about 30 minutes before midnight that the Address, a very famous, fancy and expensive hotel just in front of the Burj Khalifa was on fire. Initially I did not believe it would be a big deal but then I went to the balcony and say myself, the smoke coming from the building was really worrying. I think this was a symbolic act to burn that 2015 of our skins and that is why I love Dubai, is because it does not matter what is going on, the party keeps going on!
More fireworks! not really sure where this ones where shot from, maybe Dubai Festival City?
Jokes aside, it was a miracle that no one got injured and we ended up with some incredible stories, my favorite one to start the year, Dennis, the photographer that got stuck in the balcony, 48th stories above the ground, got the balls to do some rappel and document the whole ordeal in the meantime. check the story here!
The fireworks didn't last as long as other years, but I think it is understandable given the situation. I appreciate the fact that at least I got to see some. I ended up having a good celebration, great company, champagne and a story to tell. Definitely not bad start! (just lets not talk about that hangover the day after)
I wish everyone a great 2016, full of adventures, drama, opportunities, travel and photos!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Raziel
A new start! Middle East life part 2
The last 4 years of my life were marked by a never ending flow of new experiences feelings and emotions. It is when with a bit of effort and a bit of luck I had the chance to change my life 180 degrees.
Being from Mexico and being presented with the idea of moving to the middle east certainly made me raise my eyebrows and start thinking if it would really be a good idea. It was definitely not a popular destination for Mexicans, and Qatar was just starting to get more famous because of the world cup 2022. Few months later I was landing in Doha, ready to eat some shawarmas and get to know the place.
Now.. what does this have to do with this blog? well, good question. Like I said, being in Doha created many opportunities for me on many levels but a couple that I cherish a lot are the chance to travel and explore to so many different places and be able to photograph them.
Also, being an expat in Qatar helped me a lot to improve my photography, it pushed me to go out and take more pictures because is so much to capture over there. It is a fast evolving country that also wants to keep its core traditions intact which seems difficult, but it means that you can find plenty of different things and often contradictory situations.
A Mix of old and new is easy to find and while Qatar may not be what you have in mind as an Arab Country (lets say... Morocco?) it is definitely interesting to see the direction the country and the city are taking. An amazing skyline, the old downtown, 5 stars hotels, old style Dhow boats, super cars and camel races,
My experience in Qatar is over and now after a brief pause living in the real world (more details on that later) I ended up moving back to the Middle East, this time to Abu Dhabi. This is why I decided to start this blog, new life, new city, new job: A new start!
I started taking photographs as a hobby and soon became my passion. While I try to share them (prints and online) I always felt that I could share a bit more, the story behind the pictures of some tips I got along the way. For whatever reason (laziness maybe?) I never done that in the past. I have tons of pictures just getting piled up ready to be out there so expect many posts in retrospective, probably good to help me remember good times and also I'm already planning next year adventures so I can keep piling up pics :), lets see where this experiment takes us.
For now, thank you for stopping by, I promise to start adding good stuff soon!
Raziel - The Expatcker -