Lovely colors in Scotland. photo: http://thebesttraveldestinations

It’s the best time to go and visit Europe’s wonderful display of nature. Not only is the weather pleasant in spring (ranging within 10°-20°), the flowers, the sky and every other spring colors would surely be lovely to photograph.

On top of my list would be the Netherlands for the tulips. It’s been my fervent hope to see a bed of tulips in different colors, still on the ground and not as a bouquet. ^_^ The windmill would be a bonus! I think I caught a bit of the Tulip Mania — unfortunately though I wasn’t given bulbs to plant.

 

Tulip beds are simply lovely. photo: http://www.thedailytruffle.com

Then there’s cherry blossom viewing (Hanami) in Japan. Although I would love to do that in Washington, DC as well. Being under cherry trees in full bloom with the petals falling on the ground is so magical…yes, even when it’s just watching a movie, I could feel simple joys of spring.

Walking and Viewing Cherry Blossoms. photo: wikipedia

Santorini at sunset, photo: http://www.smartertravel.com

Breathtaking…is the word that would best describe a sunset in Santorini. Don’t just take my word for it, look at the photo on the left. Captivating, I’d say too because that’s how I felt when I saw  this photo. I would love to stand at the same spot the photographer was and see this same blue domes overlooking the waters as the sun sets. Wouldn’t you?

Santorini sounds like Saint Irene -from which the island’s name was derived, is what remained of after a volcanic eruption in that part of Greece. (Hey, my name is there too, San- Tori- ni, lols.) It is surrounded by steep cliffs and the settlement were naturally built on the slopes, that’s what adds charm to this lovely island.

 The island is also full of history as is the whole of Greece. I would love to explore and walk there and perhaps find a worthy piece of whatnot to bring home.

Lovely. http://500px.com/photo/6369328

Santorini also makes for a perfect window shooting spot. teehee. I’m sharing this two lovely window photos over at Wednesday Windows. Join us!

Minimalist. photo; http://www.fulcrumdc.com/

Quebec at Dusk, in winter. photo: http://www.hicker-fine-art.com

Under the scorching heat of the sun, one can’t think of some place cold and cozy. Quebec, particularly in this photo is so inviting. Well, it’s spring there now but given the chance I’d like to visit this lovely city in the winter.

There are a lot of things to do in Quebec in the different seasons but not as much in winter. Albeit, winter in Quebec means an avalanche of fun. There are about 90 winter resorts to choose from where the whole family can go snowboarding and skiing on smooth, beautiful snow-laden mountains.

There’s also a much interesting form of activity: ice fishing. That’s fishing from a hole on a frozen lake or any fishing area. Accordingly, there are a lot of fish species that are caught:  northern pike, walleye  and yellow perch. There’s also rainbow trout and brook trout. Ice fishing has become so popular that there are many resorts offering a hut and equipment for those who want to try it. Surely a different experience in winter.

Ice Fishing, hole is big enough for a fish to go through. photo: http://kids.britannica.com/

Scotland is still one of the most enchanting places I dream to see and walk on. Among the historical spots in Scotland, Dunnottar Castle is a must-see. The castle has seen history unfold over Scotland, that’s from the Middle Ages to the age of Enlightenment. Though what remains are ruins, it is still as charming as a castle that stands full and mighty. Just look at the photo above and you’ll know what I mean.

Visiting Dunnottar also makes for a fine trekking experience. The only way to reach it is by foot which served the castle well in the early ages as it is not easy to penetrate…I’m imagining enemies having difficulties conquering the lonesome castle which is defended by its loyal soldiers. True enough, history says By May 1652 Dunnottar Castle was the only place left in Scotland holding out for Charles II against Cromwell’s forces under the command of General George Monck.

Christ the Redeemer, photo: http://www.destination360.com

There are many things, artworks and places that I would love to see if given the chance. I thought it proper to list them down here, include a photo or two and actually remind myself why I would love to visit the place. These are random places and not in the order that I like best.

First off, I’d like to get a close up look at the Cristo Redentor, the largest Art Deco statue in the world and the 5th largest statue of Jesus in the world. Rio, the shortname for the Rio de Janeiro, is also a combination of beaches, sports, sun, exotic parks and gardens, and spectacular mountain views, along with a big of dancing and drinking. Its a majestic beauty is brought about by it being nestled between a glorious bay with beautiful white-sand beaches and a sharply rising mountain range  that is covered by tropical vegetation.

I would love a week spend on the beaches and climb up to view the statue before December of this year ends, kidding!

It is not what I planned but everything turned out good after all.

I was planning to spend the Holy Week in a beach resort with Marlon either in San Juan, Batangas or somewhere in Zambales. I end up spending Maundy Thursday night to Good Friday in the afternoon in a beach resort in Mabini, Batangas with Marlon, my kids and my in-laws. It was a fun-filled day so I have no regrets.

I guess the “Me and You, Just as Two” post-anniversary celebration would have to wait when the budget and the location are solid.

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