The Changing Seasons is a monthly project where bloggers around the world share their thoughts and feelings about the month just gone. We all approach this slightly differently — though generally with an emphasis on the photos we’ve taken during the month.
For many of us, looking back over these photos provides the structure and narrative of our post, so each month is different. Some focus on documenting the changes in a particular project — such as a garden, an art or craft project, or a photographic diary of a familiar landscape.
But in the end, it is your changing season, and you should approach it however works for you.
There are no fixed rules around post length or photo number — just a request that you respect your readers’ time and engagement.
Tag your photos with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them.
Follow me around Brussels as I take in the sights and find interesting things to see around the city
First up, a pretty Christmas tree and the statue of Charles Rogier – twice Prime Minister of Belgium in the 19th century – sit in Place de la Liberte on Rue du Congress.
At the end of Rue du Congress, you’ll find the Congress Column with its statue of Belgium’s first monarch, King Leopold I at the top.
Onwards towards the city centre, you may come across this statue of St Michael killing the devil.
Then, the impressive western, northern and eastern facades that make up the beautiful St Michael & St Gudula Cathedral.
Then, a last look back at the cathedral from Rue de la Montagne.
In the centre, you’ll find loads of lovely buildings – typically Belgian with crow-stepped gables.
Head north and you’ll come across The Bourse – the Brussels Stock Exchange – housed in this grand building.
If you fancy a break, go to Halles Saint-Gery – a beautiful little place which used to be market halls in the 19th century, but now an exhibition centre, cafe and bar – a welcome pitstop from your sightseeing!
A short walk away is St Catherine’s Place with St Catherine’s church at one end. It’s a great place for eating and drinking or simply wandering around.
Just around the corner, there is the belltower of the old St Catherine’s Church.
Last on this little tour is the small chapel of Mary Magdalene on Rue de la Madeleine.
If you would like to follow in my footsteps. here is the route I followed, more or less:
If you like architecture, Brussels has plenty of interesting buildings to see. But, it’s easy to miss some of the smaller details – all as stunning as the main counterpart!
See the decorative exterior windows of St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral – built in the Brabantine Gothic style.
Most people flock to see the Manneqin Pis – a statue of a small boy peeing. But, take in the stone niche in a rockery style surrounding the small statue – originally designed by Jerome Duquesnoy the Elder in the 17th century.
I managed to get to Rotterdam to see Chris in November. Despite having to pay extra for COVID tests to go there and upon my return to the UK, I was desperate to have a change of location and to spend time with my best friend. It was just what the doctor ordered!
As always, we had a lot of fun and plenty of laughter.
Our traditional stop off (on the way home) – De Burgemeester
And the views weren’t too bad either!
Canal on Voorhaven
Windmill on Voorhaven
I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May 2022 bring peace, love and happiness!
The Changing Seasons is a monthly project where bloggers around the world share their thoughts and feelings about the month just gone. We all approach this slightly differently — though generally with an emphasis on the photos we’ve taken during the month.
For many of us, looking back over these photos provides the structure and narrative of our post, so each month is different. Some focus on documenting the changes in a particular project — such as a garden, an art or craft project, or a photographic diary of a familiar landscape.
But in the end, it is your changing season, and you should approach it however works for you.
There are no fixed rules around post length or photo number — just a request that you respect your readers’ time and engagement.
Tag your photos with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them.
During these COVID times, we are all restricted in what we can do! But, nothing is stopping you doing some of things I did in Australia! These experiences made me feel good – I hope they make you feel good too!
Byron Bay, New South Wales
For those who live close to Byron Bay, it’s easy to enjoy this beautiful spot with long golden sands, stretching for miles and crystal clear blue water lapping the shoreline. And to those people, I am slightly envious!
Take a walk to Cape Byron Lighthouse with stunning views out to sea. The walk from town will blow the cobwebs away and, if you’re lucky, you might just see dolphins and turtles from your vantage point – a magical experience and one that’s guaranteed to make you smile! Or, experience the thrill of horseriding on the beach. It’s a fabulous activity to do, especially when you can ride along the beach with the wind in your hair, the pounding of the hooves in your ears and the salty air bringing happy tears to your eyes! If neither of those things appeal to you, simply wandering along the beach feeling the sand under your feet can beat the blues any day!
Only 13 km from Adelaide’s city centre, Belair National Park is a place of natural beauty – that in itself may keep your stress levels at bay! There is lots to do here – biking, walking, horseriding or orienteering. You could do what I did and take a picnic and spend time with your family – the kids will love the play areas! Belair is also a photographer’s candy shop with plenty of opportunities for you to snap away! You’ll find a wide variety of flowers and trees and lots of wildlife too – if you’re walking you might come across kangaroos and emus. And, look out for koalas resting in the trees above.
Not far from Adelaide, Cleland Wildlife Park is probably the best wildlife park I have ever been to in Australia. Over 35 hectares of bush-land, you’ll have the company of kangaroos, emus and wombats which roam freely around the park. It’s a relaxed environment with animals all around you. You can get quite close the animals, as they are adapted to the park setting, which means you can feed them too! It’s said that petting animals releases feel-good hormones! Visiting Cleland makes for a lovely day out – take your time exploring and enjoy the animals and the calm surroundings.
Dandenong Ranges, Melbourne
After a very sober New Year’s Eve, surrounded by thousands of people in Melbourne, I took a welcome trip to the Dandenong Ranges. If you love nature, you’ll love this place! Tall Mountain Ash trees form the forest all around you and, apart from the odd walker or runner, it feels like you have it all to yourself. It’s so peaceful there with only the sounds of nature to accompany you, it’s such a nice feeling away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Another natural beauty is the town of 1770, so called because it was in the year 1770 that Captain James Cook and the crew of HM Bark Endeavour made their second landing on the eastern shores of Australia. A perfect beach for running, walking or just chilling out. Do some surfing, have a picnic, or go on a boat trip, but if you just want to relax, 1770 is a great place to take in the views and just be – something we all could benefit from now and again.
These were only a few of the places I visited when I was in Australia and I remember every one made me feel good. Just being out in the fresh air, walking among the trees or along the beach put a smile on my face. 🙂
For more travels around Australia, check out these posts..
Another month gone and one closer to the end of 2021. It always surprises (and scares me) how quick time goes. For this month’s Changing Season, I have chosen to capture one moment in time!
This is October’s “Photo of the Day” from Morrisophotography during a walk around the marina in Barcelona back in February 2020. It was a beautifully warm evening and, although this is a bustling port with lots of activity (there were huge yachts just out of shot on the right and lots more people), I managed to capture this tranquil scene.
The Changing Seasons is a monthly project where bloggers around the world share their thoughts and feelings about the month just gone. We all approach this slightly differently — though generally with an emphasis on the photos we’ve taken during the month.
For many of us, looking back over these photos provides the structure and narrative of our post, so each month is different. Some focus on documenting the changes in a particular project — such as a garden, an art or craft project, or a photographic diary of a familiar landscape.
But in the end, it is your changing season, and you should approach it however works for you.
There are no fixed rules around post length or photo number — just a request that you respect your readers’ time and engagement.
Tag your photos with #MonthlyPhotoChallenge and #TheChangingSeasons so that others can find them.
One thing you learn when you live in a city is how to get around it. I lived in Bangkok – one of the busiest and seemingly chaotic cities in the world and, when I first moved there, I thought it would be impossible to find my way around. But, with a little determination and persistence, I ended up knowing it like the back of my hand. Here are my tips for being able to navigate a city like a boss!
Research things to do
If you plan to get to know a city, the first thing you may want to do is to find out what there is to see and do there. For me, I have a nice collection of “Rough Guides” and I will add to this if I know I am going to a particular destination. There are plenty of resources online too – you can buy a tourist map or look at things to do. You might also find newsagents or souvenir shops that sell maps once you have arrived. Once you know what you want to see and do, you can then plan your day (s).
Most cities are huge and it would be impossible to see everything in one day, so don’t even try! Bangkok has over 50 districts, London has 32 boroughs, New York has 62 counties – you get my point! Choose one area depending on time allowing, what you want to do, and how you will get there and back. Then, really get to know that area before moving on to the next one.
Central London
Use public transport
It might be easier to take a taxi, I did this myself before I moved to Bangkok, but it’s not the best way to navigate a city. The best way to ‘get your bearings’ is to make use of other modes of transport – I’m talking buses or metros or subways! I was introduced to Bangkok’s BTS (Skytrain) – the city’s elevated train system – and the MRT – Bangkok’s underground trains. Both perfect and easy ways to traverse the city. If you’ve done your research and know where things are, trains have maps in the carriages, so all you have to do is get off at the correct station.
Bangkok BTS – Ratchathewi
Walk
The alternative to public transport is to take to your own feet and walk. For me, this has to be the ultimate way to navigate a city. Over the years, I walked all over Bangkok and that’s why I got to know where everything was, knew exactly how to get there, and what there was to do once I got there. I make a point of walking wherever I go, it’s a great way to find your bearings. Plus, if you have no sense of direction, walking will definitely change that.
Walking
Get lost on purpose
If you are not restricted to time, another good way to navigate a city is to get lost – on purpose! Take a taxi and get dropped off anywhere and then make your way back. Hop on the bus, metro or subway and get off at a random station. Walk (without following a map) taking random left or right turns and see where you end up!
Get lost – on purpose
Use Google maps
As one who prefers paper maps, for a long time I refused to use Google maps when I was out and about. But, even I have to admit, it’s a handy resource to use when you are navigating your way around. Most attractions are listed as well as bars and restaurants (for that all important break from navigating) and you will know how long it takes to get to your destination. I defy you to try and beat Google’s time! Me and Chris can do it 2 minutes quicker! (just for fun!)
Finding your way with Google
Know the basic language
If you think you know where you are going or not, it’s always useful to know a little of the language. You never know when you might need the help of a local resident. Many times in the past, I have had to ask someone the way and it’s so much easier if you can do this in a language they understand. I say understand, my Thai was never that good, but I always got my question answered – amid lots of laughs and banter! If nothing else, you’ll have a smile on your face as you carry on!
I love art in all its forms. It means many things to many people – you may love it too or you may hate it – but, if you don’t mind, let’s delve into my mind and see what art is to me.
An appreciation of talent
Whether it’s a painting or a drawing, photography or sculpture or a multi-sensory experience like Van Gogh Alive, I have an appreciation of the artist’s talent. I can look and imagine how their ideas have morphed onto the canvas. There are so many artists and a few of my favourites are Vincent Van Gogh, Salvador Dali and Oleg Shuplyak – each one different, but their creations are all equally fabulous. I can really appreciate their creative foresight, being able to see in their mind’s eye what the finished article will look like.
Van Gogh Alive – London
Learning
Art is learning. I choose what to go and see, not always because I know who the artist is, sometimes I don’t, but it’s the subject matter I am mostly interested in – city views, art movements like Baroque, Impressionism or Surrealism, illusion art and many more. I can learn more about these topics as I read the exhibit titles. I am then drawn to the artists themselves and can learn about their lives in books or the internet.
Opera Omnia – Bangkok
There is a story to tell
There is usually a story to tell in art. Some art is more than a little distressing (Beyond the Air We Breathe). Some are obvious in their message, some are not, and it takes a while before you realise what the artists are trying to convey. Art is a powerful way to get the message across!
Beyond the Air We Breathe – Bangkok
Excitement
Art creates excitement. Not knowing what I’ll find until I see it with my own eyes. Then, looking at the photos or paintings, taking in all the details – the brush strokes, the colours, the textures, the painting as a whole – I feel joy and realise I am smiling!
Oleg Shuplyak – Imaginarium, Bangkok
Inspiration
There are many things that inspire people and art is one of those things. It might inspire you to use the same colours in a different way or think of a new way to use the same subject. Art simply inspires me to be more creative in my life. Inspiration feels like a burst of energy and I feel motivated to put my ideas into action.
My creations
Relaxation
When I feel the weight of the world on my shoulders, I pick up my paint brush and paint! Concentrating on what I am doing and getting into the flow state makes me forget why I am stressed and helps me keep my mental wellbeing in check.
COVID has had a toll on everyone’s lives! I, for one, have piled on the pounds during lockdowns, drank too much and lost all motivation for everything including exercise and the list goes on. Now, even though the virus is still with us, the world is slowly opening up again which means we might be able to have that long awaited holiday abroad. But, if you’ve already started your journey back to fitness, how can you keep the momentum going if you do manage to get away? Let’s look at 7 ways to stay fit and healthy on your travels.
1. Walk everywhere
Wherever you end up, instead of taking the local public transportation, take to your own feet and walk. Not only is this a great form of exercise, but you’ll discover places and see things that you wouldn’t normally see if you’re stuck in the back seat of a taxi. Walking is also a great way to ‘get your bearings’ when you are visiting somewhere new.
Walking in Bangkok
2. Go jogging
Go for a jog around a park or on the beach. It’s free, it’s a good way to clear your mind and you’ll keep those extra pounds at bay. If the idea of jogging makes you feel like throwing up, start slowly walking, then get faster until you break into a jog. You’ll be amazed at how energised you’ll feel and your body will benefit from the fresh air.Â
Jogging in King Rama IX Park, Bangkok
3. Enjoy a swim
A fabulous form of exercise that will work your whole body, swimming is easy to fit into any holiday or longer trip. Everyone takes time to relax and, more often than not, that time is spent on a beach or by a swimming pool. Get in and do a few lengths of the pool or wade out into the blue ocean.
Swimming in Glenelg, Adelaide
4. Do body weight exercises
Body weight exercises need no equipment whatsoever. All you need is a bit of space and the motivation to stay active. Try push ups, burpees or air cycles. There are so many exercises you can do and all are designed to get your heart pumping and keep your body strong.
When you go travelling, it’s so tempting to overeat. I do it all the time – all those delicious new foods! I feel like I’ve put on ten stone by the time I’m heading home! Try to abstain from foods that you wouldn’t normally eat at home – MacDonalds, KFC etc. If you are self-catering, head to the local market where you’ll find a huge array of delicious fruits and vegetables or try to stick to healthy choices when eating out in restaurants.
Shopping in Rotterdam
Markthall – Rotterdam
6. Don’t drink alcohol every day
As with overeating, drinking alcohol every day is easily done. We have all been guilty of this one, waking up with a horrendous hangover and vowing never to drink again. Don’t cut out completely, especially if you enjoy a tipple with your evening meal, but don’t overdo it. Your head and your liver will thank you in the morning. Trust me, I have been there!
Drink sensibly – if you can!
7. Keep hydrated
If you are travelling through a hot country, it’s imperative to keep yourself hydrated. Most of us don’t drink nearly as much water as we should, and this is particularly important when the sun is constantly blazing down on you. Being hydrated will stop headaches and keep your energy levels up.
