A Wandering Sole

Spring Yearnings for Europe

// April 3rd, 2013 // 10 Comments » // Italy, Spain, Turkey

It’s no secret- I love Africa travel. But being here in East Africa for the past four months has me itching to see interesting architecture again. On occasion, I see nice hospitality interiors from chain restaurants… and that’s about it. Here in Kenya and Rwanda, I don’t get excited about architecture in the cities.

A few weeks ago, As We Travel posted a view of Florence’s Duomo on their Facebook page. Suddenly, I was itching… okay like practically dying, to be back in Italy and spending countless hours wandering old streets and imagining what life was like during Michelangelo’s time. I tasted gelato on my tongue and felt the crisp spring air on my face. I even recalled the old Romanian woman I shared a hostel room with in Florence, and despite her eating tuna out of a can (the smell of tuna makes me gag) while sitting in her little white nightgown, I remember how much I admired her passion. She saved for several years for a one-week trip to Florence, and spent countless hours in the art museums day after day. Then a mosquito bit me, and I was brought back to my Nairobi reality. As Spring settles upon us, I wanted to mention some of my favorite places in Europe. While I haven’t traveled extensively in Europe, I have discovered some pretty special spots in my limited travels there (and yes, I  use the word discover as in, I discovered for myself… I realize these are quite well known!). I think the idea of place has become so important to me… a hyper-awareness of my surroundings. Place and space are a huge part of why I travel.

Hagia Sophia

1. Hagia Sophia: Once a church, then a mosque, now a museum. However I would just call it: absolutely stunning. (more…)

A Positive Experience in Barcelona

// October 5th, 2012 // 7 Comments » // Spain

I was recently reminded of the five days I spent in Barcelona on my around the world trip in 2010. Whenever Barcelona is brought up in conversation, I am quick to pipe in, “Oh, I love Barcelona!” And I think many people share this same sentiment. But I have also come across several people that truly did not feel a connection to the city. So, it got me thinking- what is it exactly about Barca that had such a strong pull on me? (more…)

Montage Monday: Sunset on the Bosphorus River

// April 16th, 2012 // 2 Comments » // Photo of the Week, Turkey

As we left the Asian side of Istanbul to ferry back to the Old City, we caught sight of a cargo ship passing under this intensely orange sunset on the Bosphorus River. It was absolutely beautiful. (more…)

Montage Monday: Photo Essay of Venice Architecture

// April 2nd, 2012 // 9 Comments » // Italy, Photo of the Week

Perhaps my favorite photo from Venice

In 2010, when I embarked on my trip around the world, my first stop was Venice. (more…)

Ferry to the Asian Side of Istanbul

// March 7th, 2012 // 1 Comment » // Turkey

Istanbul is such a unique city where east meets west, where traditional meets modern, and where there is something to discover on every corner. On our last full day in Istanbul, Stella and I visited Topkapi Palace (totally worthwhile if you want to see big jewels), took another walk through the Spice Market, and then took the ferry over to the Asian side of Istanbul to an area called Karakoy. Few tourists venture to this side and it was a quiet day when we arrived. Though I wouldn’t consider it a must-see while in Istanbul (though I know many who do), I have to say that we had a really fun time because of the locals we met.  (more…)

Street Vendors & Shops in Istanbul

// March 2nd, 2012 // 6 Comments » // Photo of the Week, Turkey

Breads for sale in these carts all over the city

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Despite the cold from going in December, it was great to stroll through streets and alleys and along the river. Here are a few snapshots from our short stay in Istanbul:  (more…)