At some hotels in Lhasa, including the more altitude-savvy ones, you might find an oversized balloon filled with oxygen on offer. Yes, a literal lifesaver in latex form, designed for guests struggling with the high-altitude thin air. These O2 balloons are often kept handy at reception or even sent to your room if you’re feeling…
Touching down in Lhasa feels like stepping onto another planet, and not just because the city sits at a dizzying 3,656 metres above sea level. The moment your plane door pops open, you’ll feel the high-altitude air smack you in the lungs. Cabin pressure during the flight keeps things manageable, but as soon as you…
Geysir and Strokkur, nestled in Iceland’s geothermal heartland, are nature’s ultimate boiling points. Geysir, the granddaddy of all geysers, is mostly dormant now, but its historic significance remains; it’s the namesake for every other geyser on Earth. Nearby, Strokkur has taken the spotlight, delighting visitors with its reliable eruptions every 5–10 minutes. In winter, this…
Gullfoss waterfall in winter is a mesmerising display of Iceland’s raw power frozen in time. The mighty Hvítá River crashes down into the canyon, partially encased in thick layers of ice and snow. The water still flows, but frost clings to the edges of the falls, creating sparkling icicles and frosty sculptures that glint in…
Kerio volcanic crater in winter is like stepping into a frozen postcard. The red volcanic slopes are dusted with snow, creating a stark contrast against the icy blue lake that often freezes over in the cold. The usual vibrancy of the crater is muted, replaced by a serene and frosty landscape that feels almost otherworldly….
Reykjavik Airport in winter is a mix of practicality and icy charm. Surrounded by snow-dusted landscapes and often a dramatic backdrop of low-hanging clouds, the airport feels like a gateway to Iceland’s raw, untamed beauty. Inside, it’s warm and minimal, with Scandinavian design touches that keep things sleek and functional. Expect boots stomping off snow…
Grabbing a kebab in the Quartier Latin is a rite of passage for anyone wandering through Paris’s lively student hub. This neighbourhood, buzzing with energy and history, is home to some of the city’s best late-night street food. Kebab joints line Rue de la Harpe and Rue Mouffetard, offering juicy, spiced meats piled high into…
Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissante – To Great Men, a Grateful Nation – is the full inscription that crowns the Panthéon in Paris, a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, towering over the Latin Quarter with its grand dome and colonnaded façade. Originally built as a church, it now serves as a mausoleum to some of…
Pont Neuf is a Parisian classic and ironically named the New Bridge, even though it’s the oldest bridge in the city. Spanning the River Seine, it connects the Ile de la Cité to the riverbanks and offers some of the best views of Paris. Its iconic stone arches are a favourite for photographers, especially at…
Released in 1993, the Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM is something of a classic in the world of telephoto lenses. Designed for wildlife, sports, and bird photography, it has built a reputation for being lightweight, sharp, and relatively affordable for an L-series prime. While it lacks image stabilisation, it compensates with excellent optical quality and…
