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The province of Nan is located in the north of Thailand and borders Laos. It is one of the lesser known provinces of Thailand, but is known for its natural beauty, rich culture and ancient history. It's a great place to visit if you're looking for adventure and relaxation in nature. Road 1256 passes through the mountains of Nan and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. Almost the most beautiful road in Thailand, the view on the side of the road is very beautiful, if you go during the rainy season, the atmosphere will be very good. You can see the green along the two sides of the road on the ridge. In some parts you can see the beautiful view of rice fields over the hills. It may be overgrown on some parts of the road. There are several interesting sights and activities to enjoy along the way. It's great for bird watching, camping, and hiking, and you're unlikely to meet many other people while exploring. You can also visit the Doi Phu Kha National Park, which is known for its beautiful waterfalls, lush forests and spectacular views. Wonderfully cool weather all year round. In addition, there are also several hill tribe villages along the way, where you have the chance to experience the local culture and traditions.

 

Thailand is home to several beautiful national parks that showcase the country's diverse natural beauty. The Doi Phu Kha National Park is located near the border between Thailand and Laos. The National Park is also home to the highest mountain peak and beautiful waterfalls. Sapan Waterfall, also known as Mae Charim Waterfall, is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush green mountains and lush natural landscapes. The waterfall is located deep in the mountains and is surrounded by lush tropical jungle, making for an enchanting landscape. The waterfall consists of several levels, with water flowing down large rock formations. Each tier of the waterfall offers great views and swimming opportunities. The sound of running water and the fresh mountain air create a serene and tranquil environment where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty. To reach the waterfall, you must follow a path that winds through the lush jungle. It can be an adventurous journey, but the reward of reaching the waterfall is totally worth it. Along the way, enjoy the region's abundant flora and fauna, including exotic birds and wildlife. If you want to experience the beauty of nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Sapan Waterfall in Nan Province, Thailand is a great destination to visit.

 

De provincie Nan is gelegen in het noorden van Thailand en grenst aan Laos. Het is één van de minder bekende provincies van Thailand, maar staat bekend om zijn natuurlijke schoonheid, rijke cultuur en oude geschiedenis. De weg 1256 loopt door de bergen van Nan en biedt een adembenemend uitzicht op de omliggende natuur. Bijna de mooiste weg in Thailand, het uitzicht aan de kant van de weg is erg mooi, als je tijdens het regenseizoen gaat, zal de sfeer erg goed zijn. Je ziet het groen langs de twee kanten van de weg op de bergkam. Het is geweldig om vogels te spotten, te kamperen en te wandelen, en het is onwaarschijnlijk dat je veel andere mensen tegenkomt tijdens het verkennen. Je kunt ook een bezoek brengen aan de Doi Phu Kha National Park, dat bekend staat om zijn prachtige watervallen, weelderige bossen en spectaculaire uitzichten. Heerlijk koel weer het hele jaar door. Het Nationaal Park is ook de thuisbasis van, de hoogste bergtop in de provincie en prachtige watervallen. De Sapan-waterval, ook bekend als de Mae Charim-waterval, is een prachtige waterval gelegen omringd door weelderige groene bergen en weelderige natuurlijke landschappen. De waterval ligt diep in de bergen en wordt omgeven door weelderige tropische jungle, wat zorgt voor een betoverend landschap. De waterval bestaat uit verschillende niveaus, met water dat langs grote rotsformaties naar beneden stroomt. Elke laag van de waterval biedt een prachtig uitzicht en zwemgelegenheid. Het geluid van stromend water en de frisse berglucht creëren een serene en rustige omgeving waarin 'je kunt ontspannen en genieten van de natuurlijke schoonheid. Om de waterval te bereiken, moet je een pad volgen dat door de weelderige jungle slingert. Het kan een avontuurlijke tocht zijn, maar de beloning van het bereiken van de waterval is absoluut de moeite waard. Onderweg kun je genieten van de overvloedige flora en fauna van de regio, inclusief exotische vogels en wilde dieren. Als je de schoonheid van de natuur wilt ervaren en even wilt ontsnappen aan de drukte van het dagelijks leven, is de Sapan-waterval in de provincie Nan, Thailand, een geweldige bestemming om te bezoeken.

Reflection of the snow-covered mountain peaks in an alpine lake in Caucasus mountains, as seen during the trek from Iprali to Ushguli via Latpari Pass (2,834m / 9,297ft), in Svaneti Region of Georgia.

 

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Night view of Šibenik, one of the oldest Croatian towns on the eastern shores of the Adriatic, in Šibenik-Knin County, Croatia.

 

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A beautiful spring day exploring the back roads and landscapes of Baker County Oregon near the towns of Keating and Baker City.

 

A little early for spring migration still but spotted a few fun birds including lots of Red Tail Hawks and several nesting great horned owls.

 

For more information about Baker County Oregon including local scenic byways and birding hot spots visit Baker County Tourism's website at www.travelbakercounty.com

  

A spring day exploring the back roads and scenic byways in Baker County Oregon.

 

Spent the day enjoying the arrival of Spring in Baker County Oregon. Wildflowers are starting to bloom and birds are starting to arrive for spring migration. Spotted a few new arrivals including white crowns yellow headed, redwing, and brewer’s blackbirds, and found ourselves under the watchful eye of several Great Horned Owls.

 

For more information about Baker County Oregon including local scenic byways and birding hot spots visit Baker County Tourism's website at www.travelbakercounty.com

  

Aerial view of Gergeti Trinity Church, a Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church built in the 14th century, sitting on top of the Caucasus mountains surrounded by the vastness of nature, with Mount Kazbek (5,054 m/16,581 ft) in background, in Stepantsminda, Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia.

 

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Stunning view of Porto Timoni beach, a picturesque double beach on the island of Corfu, Ionian Islands, Greece. It is known for its twin coves separated by a narrow strip of land, with stunning, clear blue water. It's accessible via a ~20-30 minute hike from Afionas village or by boat.

 

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Aerial view of Veli Lošinj, a scenic port town on Lošinj island, in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, Croatia.

 

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Aerial view of the Russia–Georgia Friendship Monument, a large round stone and concrete structure overlooking the Devil's Valley in the Caucasus mountains, located on the Georgian Military Highway between the ski resort town of Gudauri and the Jvari pass, in Stepantsminda District, Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia. Inside the monument is a large tile mural that spans the whole circumference of the structure and depicts scenes of Georgian and Russian history.

 

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The tiny Khalde village, situated beneath the snow covered peaks of Caucasus mountains, as seen during the trek from Adishi to Iprali, in Svaneti Region of Georgia.

 

Since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, Khalde village has been completely abandoned as the Soviet agricultural and other subsidies it depended upon vanished.

 

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A spring day exploring the back roads and scenic byways in Baker County Oregon.

 

Spent the day enjoying the arrival of Spring in Baker County Oregon. Wildflowers are starting to bloom and birds are starting to arrive for spring migration. Spotted a few new arrivals including white crowns yellow headed, redwing, and brewer’s blackbirds, and found ourselves under the watchful eye of several Great Horned Owls.

 

For more information about Baker County Oregon including local scenic byways and birding hot spots visit Baker County Tourism's website at www.travelbakercounty.com

  

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The Old Merchantile Store ...

 

~ Have A Great Monday Friends ...

Wadi Al-Shab is one of Oman’s most well-known wadis, offering hiking trails, clear pools, and a hidden cave with a small waterfall. Interestingly, reaching the entrance requires a short boat ride across the wadi. However, our guide suggested skipping it due to its popularity with tourists. Instead, we ventured along a dirt road into the mountains to explore Wadi Tiwi. This quieter alternative featured dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and small villages along the way. Both wadis highlight the charm of Oman’s landscapes, but Wadi Tiwi provided a more peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience – Wadi Al-Shab, Oman.

Aerial view of the famous horseshoe bend on Crnojevic River, in Lake Skadar National Park, Montenegro.

 

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Upper Michigan, USA

September 2020

Dawn light over the medieval town of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean Sea, in southern Croatia.

 

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Big Horn Sheep in Burnt River Canyon in Baker County

 

A beautiful New Year’s Day exploring the Burnt River Canyon and watching wildlife between Durkee and Unity in Baker County Oregon with lots of Bighorn Sheep out to help us ring in the new year.

 

The Burnt River Canyon near Durkee is always one of our favorite drives for taking in the majestic scenery of Eastern Oregon and watching wildlife along the way. Saw lots of wildlife this trip as colder temperatures have pushed lots of deer down into the canyon. We were excited to spot a few Bighorn Sheep in rut during this trip

 

For more information about Burnt River Canyon or other Baker County back roads and scenic byways visit the Baker County Tourism website at www.travlebakercounty.com

  

Aerial view of Gergeti Trinity Church, a Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church built in the 14th century, sitting on top of a steep mountain surrounded by the vastness of nature, in Stepantsminda, Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia.

 

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Farkas-hegy

Budaőrs közelében

2022.06.15

  

Farkas-hill

Budaőrs, Hungary

15.06.2022

Chinese noodles hanged to dry in Sanhe old town alley, Anhui, China.

 

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Social Distancing in Burnt River Canyon and the tiny town of Unity in Baker County

 

A beautiful Spring day exploring the Burnt River Canyon and the small town of Unity in Baker County Oregon . some great wildlife and lots of wide open scenery.

 

The Burnt River Canyon near Durkee is always one of our favorite drives for taking in the majestic scenery of Eastern Oregon and watching wildlife along the way.

For more information about Burnt River Canyon or other Baker County back roads and scenic byways visit the Baker County Tourism website at www.travlebakercounty.com

 

Dawn light over Gergeti Trinity Church, a Georgian Orthodox and Apostolic Church built in the 14th century, sitting on top of a steep mountain surrounded by the vastness of nature, in Stepantsminda (commonly known as Kazbegi), a remote and peaceful town nested in Caucasus mountains, in Mtskheta-Mtianeti region of Georgia.

 

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View of Dreizinnenhütte / Rifugio Locatelli Hut, a mountain hut at the foot of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo), part of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in South Tyrol, northern Italy.

 

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Big Horn Sheep in Burnt River Canyon in Baker County

 

A beautiful New Year’s Day exploring the Burnt River Canyon and watching wildlife between Durkee and Unity in Baker County Oregon with lots of Bighorn Sheep out to help us ring in the new year.

 

The Burnt River Canyon near Durkee is always one of our favorite drives for taking in the majestic scenery of Eastern Oregon and watching wildlife along the way. Saw lots of wildlife this trip as colder temperatures have pushed lots of deer down into the canyon. We were excited to spot a few Bighorn Sheep in rut during this trip

 

For more information about Burnt River Canyon or other Baker County back roads and scenic byways visit the Baker County Tourism website at www.travlebakercounty.com

  

Dusk light over Civita di Bagnoregio, situated on top of a hill in the valley of the badlands (Valle dei Calanchi), in Viterbo province, Lazio region, central Italy.

 

Civita di Bagnoregio was founded by the Etruscans more than 2,500 years ago. It was, for a time, part of the Etruscan's principle route to Rome. Nowadays it is famously known as "the dying city" due to the progressive erosion of the foundation beneath the town.

 

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Night view of the lighthouse of Chania, located at the entrance of the port of Chania, on the island of Crete, Greece.

 

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Summer scenery at Val Di Funes, a storybook valley situated beneath the majestic peaks of Odle Group, part of the Dolomites mountains, in South Tyrol, northern Italy.

 

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Night view of Makarska, a port town by Adriatic coast, in Split-Dalmatia County, southern Croatia.

 

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Night view of the old town of Ostuni, nicknamed "the White City of Salento", in Brindisi province, Apulia region, southern Italy.

 

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photo rights reserved by Ben

 

After the silence of the remote Natlismtsemeli Monastery — where only wind and footsteps echo along the dusty paths — we slowly return to the inhabited world. The arid semi-desert gives way to vineyards, rolling hills, and leafy forests. And then, rising like a mirage above the Alazani Valley, appears the hilltop town of Sighnaghi — the so-called "City of Love." Perched high in Georgia’s Kakheti region, Sighnaghi overlooks vast wine country and the distant snowcapped peaks of the Caucasus Mountains. With its colorful rooftops, cobbled streets, and watchtowers, it has a distinctly Mediterranean charm — a striking contrast to the barren cliffs and solitude we left behind. Originally built in the 18th century under King Erekle II as a fortress town to protect against invasions, Sighnaghi still boasts an impressive stone wall with more than twenty towers, winding its way through the hills like a protective ribbon. Today, Sighnaghi is known for its romantic atmosphere, local craftsmanship, wine culture, and picturesque beauty. Couples can even get married here 24/7 — a fact that earned the town its poetic nickname. Yet despite its charm, it doesn’t feel overrun or artificial. Instead, it’s a place where time slows down. After a day surrounded by rock, stillness, and centuries of devotion, Sighnaghi feels like a warm return — a place to sip wine, share stories, and embrace the colors of life once more.

 

After leaving the silence of the remote Natlismtsemeli Monastery, we arrived in the colorful hilltop town of Sighnaghi, in Georgia’s Kakheti region. Perched above the Alazani Valley, Sighnaghi offers stunning views of vineyards and the Caucasus mountains. With its historic walls, romantic charm, and Mediterranean feel, the town is a warm and lively contrast to the solitude of the desert monastery — a place to slow down, sip wine, and reconnect with the world.

 

Na de stilte van het afgelegen Natlismtsemeli-klooster — waar alleen de wind en voetstappen weerklinken op de stoffige paden — keren we langzaam terug naar de bewoonde wereld. De droge halfwoestijn maakt plaats voor wijngaarden, glooiende heuvels en groene bossen. En dan, als een luchtspiegeling boven de Alazani-vallei, doemt het heuvelstadje Sighnaghi op — de zogenoemde “Stad van de Liefde.” Hoog gelegen in de Georgische regio Kakheti, biedt Sighnaghi een weids uitzicht over het wijngebied en de besneeuwde pieken van de Kaukasus in de verte. Met haar bonte daken, geplaveide straatjes en wachttorens heeft het een bijna mediterraan karakter — een opvallend contrast met de rotsachtige stilte die we achter ons lieten. Sighnaghi werd in de 18e eeuw gebouwd onder koning Erekle II als vestingstad om de regio te beschermen tegen invallen. De imposante stadsmuur met meer dan twintig torens slingert zich nog altijd als een stenen lint door het heuvelachtige landschap. Tegenwoordig staat Sighnaghi bekend om haar romantische sfeer, ambachtelijke kunst, wijntraditie en schilderachtige schoonheid. Je kunt er zelfs 24 uur per dag trouwen — wat het stadje haar poëtische bijnaam opleverde. Toch voelt het nooit toeristisch of gekunsteld. Integendeel: het is een plek waar de tijd vertraagt. Na een dag tussen rotsen, stilte en eeuwenoude devotie, voelt Sighnaghi als een warm welkom terug — een plek om wijn te drinken, verhalen te delen en opnieuw kleur aan het leven te geven.

  

Big Horn Sheep in Burnt River Canyon in Baker County

 

A beautiful New Year’s Day exploring the Burnt River Canyon and watching wildlife between Durkee and Unity in Baker County Oregon with lots of Bighorn Sheep out to help us ring in the new year.

 

The Burnt River Canyon near Durkee is always one of our favorite drives for taking in the majestic scenery of Eastern Oregon and watching wildlife along the way. Saw lots of wildlife this trip as colder temperatures have pushed lots of deer down into the canyon. We were excited to spot a few Bighorn Sheep in rut during this trip

 

For more information about Burnt River Canyon or other Baker County back roads and scenic byways visit the Baker County Tourism website at www.travelbakercounty.com

   

Aerial view of Sveti Stefan ("Saint Stephen"), a fortified island village and 5-star hotel resort on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. On the island are 15th-century stone villas overlooking an impeccable pink-sand beach and tempting turquoise waters.

 

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video rights reserved by Ben

 

Two young women deliver a mesmerizing version of Svanetian Round Dance – Prairie Voices in the cozy Oasis Club in Udabno. While others are still dining or listening quietly, their voices rise in raw, trance-like harmony — echoing the ancient mountain songs of Svaneti. A gentle ukulele adds a soft rhythmic layer beneath the polyphonic vocals, blending tradition with a modern, personal touch. It’s an intimate and unexpected moment of living folklore in the vast Georgian steppe. The Svan people are an ethnic subgroup of Georgians, originating from the mountainous region of Svaneti in the northwest of the country. They speak their own language, Svan, which is related to Georgian but mutually unintelligible. Svans are known for their strong cultural identity and deep sense of community. Oasis Club is a vibrant mix of restaurant and hostel, located in the heart of Georgia’s semi-desert. The restaurant serves a unique blend of Georgian and European dishes, all prepared by local cooks from Udabno. On weekends, the venue often hosts live music by regional artists. One of the highlights of Oasis Club is the evening campfire — the perfect way to relax under the stars after a day of exploring.

 

Two young women perform a haunting version of a traditional Svanetian round dance at Oasis Club in Udabno. Their raw, trance-like vocals fill the space as guests quietly dine. A powerful moment of living Georgian folklore in the desert. The atmosphere is homely, but the singing draws the attention with hypnotic repetition and raw energy. Despite the small setting and the soft string sound, an almost trance-like layering is created – typical of Svanetic polyphony. The girls combine old Caucasian singing with modern, personal interpretation, which gives an authentic and contemporary feel. In the middle of a remote desert steppe village, the echo of an ancient mountain culture resounds – living, breathing, and shared with everyone who happens to be sitting at the table.

 

Twee jonge vrouwen brengen een betoverende versie van Svanetian Round Dance – Prairie Voices in de knusse Oasis Club van Udabno. Terwijl anderen nog zitten te eten of stil luisteren, stijgen hun stemmen op in rauwe, tranceachtige harmonie — een echo van de eeuwenoude bergzang uit Svanetië. Een zachte ukulele voegt een subtiele ritmische laag toe onder de gelaagde zang, en versmelt zo traditie met een persoonlijke, moderne interpretatie. Een intiem en onverwacht moment van levende folklore, midden in de uitgestrekte Georgische steppe. De sfeer is huiselijk, maar de zang trekt de aandacht met hypnotiserende herhaling en rauwe energie. Ondanks de kleine setting en het zachte snaargeluid ontstaat een bijna tranceachtige gelaagdheid – typisch voor Svanetische polyfonie. De meisjes brengen oude Kaukasische zang samen met moderne, persoonlijke interpretatie, wat een authentiek én eigentijds gevoel geeft. Midden in een afgelegen woestijnsteppe-dorp klinkt zo de echo van een eeuwenoude bergcultuur – levend, ademend, en gedeeld met iedereen die toevallig aan tafel zit. Svanetiërs zijn een etnische subgroep van de Georgiërs, afkomstig uit de bergachtige regio Svanetië in het noordwesten van het land. Ze spreken hun eigen taal, Svan, die verwant is aan het Georgisch maar onderling niet verstaanbaar is. Ze staan bekend om hun sterke culturele identiteit en hechte gemeenschapsgevoel. Oasis Club is een levendige combinatie van restaurant en hostel, gelegen in het hart van de Georgische semi-woestijn. Het restaurant biedt een unieke mix van Georgische en Europese gerechten, bereid door lokale koks uit Udabno. In het weekend zijn er regelmatig concerten van lokale muzikanten. Eén van de hoogtepunten van Oasis Club was het gezellige kampvuur 's avonds – perfect om te ontspannen onder de sterrenhemel na een dag vol ontdekkingen.

High angle view of Positano, a cliffside village overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, on Amalfi Coast, in Salerno province, Campania region, southern Italy.

 

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Aerial view of Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn Beach), one of the top beaches in Europe, located 2km west of the harbor town of Bol, on Brač island, Split-Dalmatia County, southern Croatia.

 

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Fossombrone, Italy

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Big Horn Sheep in Burnt River Canyon in Baker County

 

A beautiful Fall day exploring the Burnt River Canyon and watching wildlife between Durkee and Unity in Baker County Oregon .

 

The Burnt River Canyon near Durkee is always one of our favorite drives for taking in the majestic scenery of Eastern Oregon and watching wildlife along the way. Saw lots of wildlife this trip as colder temperatures have pushed lots of deer down into the canyon. We were excited to spot a few Bighorn Sheep in rut during this trip

 

For more information about Burnt River Canyon or other Baker County back roads and scenic byways visit the Baker County Tourism website at www.travlebakercounty.com

  

Night view of the medieval town of Korčula, on the protected east coast of the island of Korčula, in southern Croatia.

 

© All rights reserved. You may not use this photo in website, blog or any other media without my explicit permission.

A beautiful spring day exploring the back roads and landscapes of Baker County Oregon near the towns of Keating and Baker City.

 

A little early for spring migration still but spotted a few fun birds including lots of Red Tail Hawks and several nesting great horned owls.

 

For more information about Baker County Oregon including local scenic byways and birding hot spots visit Baker County Tourism's website at www.travelbakercounty.com

  

Hidden Gem in the Andalusian MountaiTucked into the lush green folds of the Andalusian mountains, this charming pueblo blanco (white village) is a vision of serenity. With terracotta rooftops, narrow winding lanes, and panoramic views over wildflower-covered slopes, it encapsulates the magic of southern Spain’s rural life.ns

Male hiker trekking in Prokletije (a.k.a. "Accursed") Mountains, part of the Dinaric Alps, with incredible view of the Karanfili peaks in background, in Prokletije National Park, located in southeast Montenegro along the Albanian and Kosovan borders.

 

© All rights reserved. You may not use this photo in website, blog or any other media without my explicit permission.

photo rights reserved by Ben

 

This photo captures one of the historic city gates of Sighnaghi, a charming town in Georgia’s Kakheti wine region. The city walls and watchtowers, built in the 18th century under King Erekle II, once protected the town from invasions. Today, they stand as a cultural landmark, giving visitors the feeling of stepping back in time. The sturdy stone gate shown here is typical of Sighnaghi’s medieval defensive architecture. Built from river stones and bricks, the walls are remarkably well-preserved. Through the archway, the cobblestone street leads into the old town, where colorful balconies and picturesque alleys await. On the right side of the photo, vibrant textiles and handmade souvenirs by local artisans add a welcoming and lively touch to this historic setting. Atop the tower, the Georgian flag proudly waves, symbolizing the town’s enduring heritage.

 

In the heart of Sighnaghi, one of Georgia’s most charming hilltop towns, stands an ancient city gate that was part of the 18th-century defensive walls built by King Erekle II. The rounded towers of stone and brick evoke the town’s medieval past, once guarding the settlement against invaders.

 

Deze foto toont een van de historische stadspoorten van Sighnaghi, een charmant stadje in de Georgische wijnregio Kakheti. De stadsmuren en wachttorens, gebouwd in de 18e eeuw onder koning Erekle II, dienden destijds als bescherming tegen invallen. Vandaag de dag zijn ze een belangrijk cultureel erfgoed en geven ze bezoekers het gevoel alsof ze een stap terug in de tijd doen. De robuuste stenen poort op de foto is typisch voor de middeleeuwse verdedigingsarchitectuur van Sighnaghi. De muren, gemaakt van rivierkeien en bakstenen, zijn nog verrassend goed bewaard gebleven. Door de boogpoort leidt de geplaveide straat naar het oude centrum, waar kleurrijke balkons en sfeervolle straatjes op je wachten. Aan de rechterkant van de foto zie je kleurrijke stoffen en handgemaakte souvenirs die lokale ambachtslieden aanbieden, wat de historische plek combineert met een levendige, gastvrije sfeer. De Georgische vlag die boven de toren wappert, benadrukt trots de identiteit van dit bijzondere stadje.

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Luosto is a scenic tourist destination located in the heart of Lapland, Finland. It is particularly popular for its beautiful natural environment, with extensive forests, hills and impressive scenery that attracts visitors in both winter and summer. Luosto is located in the middle of the rugged Lapland landscape. In winter, the forests are covered with a thick layer of snow and offer excellent opportunities for activities such as skiing, snowmobile tours and husky rides. The Pyhä-Luosto National Park is known for its spectacular fjells mountains and untouched nature. Hiking trails lead to the top of the Pyhä-Luosto Fjell, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. Luosto is also home to one of the world's only active amethyst mines. Visitors can participate in guided tours and look for amethyst stones themselves, a unique and fun experience. Luosto is an excellent location to see the Northern Lights, especially during the cold winter evenings when the sky is clear. The dancing lights are a magical spectacle that attracts many visitors. In addition to winter sports in Luosto, there are also cozy restaurants and accommodations to enjoy the local cuisine and relax after a day full of adventure. Luosto is a destination that will appeal to nature lovers and adventurers alike, offering a unique combination of Arctic wilderness and exciting outdoor activities. It is an ideal place to enjoy the peace and beauty of Lapland, away from the hustle and bustle of urban areas.

 

Luosto is a well-known tourist destination in Lapland, Finland, situated in the municipality of Sodankylä. It is celebrated for its stunning natural surroundings, winter activities, and the Pyhä-Luosto National Park. In January, daylight hours are very short due to the polar night, a phenomenon occurring in areas above the Arctic Circle, including Lapland. We set out early in the darkness on our journey to Luosto. In Lapland, the colors of the sky during sunrise and sunset can be very intense due to the low position of the sun on the horizon. The long twilight periods can produce unique colors in the sky, including green hues, due to various scattering effects of sunlight. Our adventure starts at the secluded hamlet of Ukko-Luostontien in Luosto. In Finland, traditional wooden houses are often referred to as "wooden cabins" or "wooden chalets." The Finnish word for a wooden house is puutalo. We are walking on the ridge of fjells Ukko-Luosto along the primeval forest in the area. The snow here resembles an untouched white carpet, with trees draped in a thick layer of powder snow. Every step disrupts the serene silence of the snowy surroundings; the crunching sound of fresh snow under my hiking boots fills the air. The trees gently bend under the weight of the snow, and nature here in Luosto appears to be in a deep winter slumber. BieJee finds a natural shelter under the pine tree .

 

Luosto is een schilderachtige toeristische bestemming gelegen in het hart van Lapland, Finland. Het is vooral geliefd om zijn prachtige natuurlijke omgeving, met uitgestrekte bossen, heuvels en een indrukwekkend landschap dat zowel in de winter als in de zomer bezoekers trekt. Luosto bevindt zich te midden van het ruige Laplandse landschapbergen en ongerepte natuur. Wandelpaden leiden naar de top van de Pyhä-Luosto Fjell, waar je kunt genieten van adembenemende uitzichten over de omliggende wildernis. Luosto herbergt ook een van 's werelds enige actieve amethistmijnen. Bezoekers kunnen hier deelnemen aan rondleidingen en zelf op zoek gaan naar amethiststenen, een unieke en leuke ervaring. Luosto is een uitstekende locatie om het noorderlicht te zien, vooral tijdens de koude winteravonden wanneer de lucht helder is. De dansende lichten zijn een magisch schouwspel dat veel bezoekers trekt. Naast wintersporten in Luosto zijn ook gezellige restaurants en accommodaties om te genieten van de lokale keuken en te ontspannen na een dag vol avontuur. Luosto is een bestemming die zowel natuurliefhebbers als avonturiers zal aanspreken, met een unieke combinatie van arctische wildernis en opwindende buitenactiviteiten. Het is een ideale plek om te genieten van de rust en schoonheid van Lapland, weg van de drukte van stedelijke gebieden. Wanneer we uit de auto stappen lijkt de natuur hier in diepe winterslaap. Onze wandeling begint bij dageraad in het afgelegen gehucht Ukko-Luostontien. In Lapland, kunnen de kleuren van de lucht tijdens zonsopkomst en zonsondergang zeer intens zijn door de lage stand van de zon aan de horizon. De lange schemerperiodes kunnen unieke kleuren in de lucht veroorzaken, inclusief groene tinten, door verschillende verstrooiingseffecten van het zonlicht. De bomen buigen zachtjes onder het gewicht van de sneeuw. We lopen op de rug van de fjells Ukko-Luosto langs het oerbos in de omgeving. BieJee vindt een natuurlijke schuilplaats onder de dennenboom. Luosto biedt een prachtig landschap voor avontuurlijke activiteiten en de mogelijkheid om te genieten van de rust en schoonheid van de Finse wildernis.

Tourists hiking on the trail in Val Venegia, a gorgeous alpine valley flanked by the northern chain of the Pala Group, in the heart of Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in South Tyrol, northern Italy.

 

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Aerial view of the old town of Labin, perched on a hilltop near the Kvarner coast, in Istria County, Croatia.

 

© All rights reserved. You may not use this photo in website, blog or any other media without my explicit permission.

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