To some, the Grand Canyon is simply a "hole in the ground." To others, it's one of the most magnificant spots on the planet. (And, rightly so.) However, I think to truly appreciate the splendor of this water-carved canyon, you need to get up close and personal with it. Hike
I went to Chile's Torres del Paine National Park in October 2009. It was right before the tourist season started, so I practically had the park to myself. This photo of the Cuernos del Paine (the "Horns") was taken on the shores of Lake Pehoe. I was barely able to stand
I was drawn to New Brunswick's Bay of Fundy region with stories of dramatically shifting tides... my aunt and uncle are rumored to have gotten caught offguard by the tides and left stranded on a rock in the bay on their honeymoon 30+ years ago! After witnessing the tides and exploring the nearby town
Is there anything as enticing as the open road? This week, rather than inspire by mere destination alone, this snapshot is of no place of particular importance. Rather, the idea of the open road is intended to encourage wanderlust and a feeling of a future full of possibility. Where will YOU go on your journey? ***To contribute
Ah, Italia. Firenze is easily my favorite city in all of Italy... and maybe in all of Europe! I love the charming cobblestone streets, the artsy Oltrarno district, the food (oh, the food!), Brunelleschi's Duomo and the fact that for a city made of stone, it still maintains a warmth and feeling of
This week's Snapshot of the Week contributor, Katie Stratman, calls Denver, Colorado home. She loves to spend her free time exploring all Colorado has to offer, from running and hiking to skiing and mountain biking, and can usually be found outside... unless she is busy in the kitchen baking her (someday)
Spring is by far the most enticing time in Washington, DC. People wearily come out of their homes, tentatively shed their winter jackets and begin to marvel at the changing seasons. The famous cherry blossoms, a gift from the people of Japan in 1912, surround the tidal basin and create
During the day, this Malibu, California beachfront is notable for its grandeur. Celebrity mansions occupy this narrow strip of beach. But as the sun begins to go down, the reflections, jagged rocks and glistening water take center stage and everyone (down to the biggest star) is in awe of the colorful sunset.
Queenstown. How fitting is it that New Zealand's adventure capital is also one of the most pristine, most simply beautiful cities in their country? Well worth a stop on any South Island trip, take the gondola high up to the scenic overlook, spend the afternoon reading in the Queenstown
Milford Track. The 3 day, 33 mile hike in New Zealand's majestic Fiorland is the lushest, greenest environment I've ever seen. The hike is often otherworldly- like a background imported directly out of the movie Avatar. It's a botanic wonderland filled with draping moss, ferns, crookedly ancient trees, bubbling brooks,
Early morning at Milford Sound. On this particular morning, the sun was out. It was early enough that the dozens of tour operators coming from Queenstown hadn't yet set sail on the water, and all was still. I was lucky to capture this reflection, to have this private encounter with
This week, I'm keeping it in the family. The Snapshot of the Week is generously provided by JoAnn Ricchiuti, my mother with a keen eye for beautiful places. Always with a camera in hand, I learned everything I know about photography from her. Sunrise, my favorite time of the day!
