The city of Teotihuacán was built two thousand years ago by an unknown race, and had been in ruins for over 600 years when the Aztecs rediscovered it and called it ‘the place where gods were born’. This was in fact the first great city of the western hemisphere. It was truly an incredible sight to behold, such man-made massivity! I managed to climb the pyramid of the sun, all 247 steps, for a proper sun salutation. I did not stay long enough to climb the pyramid of the moon however, which stands at the end of the ceremonial avenue.
12 hours, 4 films and many thoughts later, I landed in Mexico City, the beginning of the end of my grand adventure. I am living in the most charming home in Condesa, an artists refuge called The Red Tree House, which was recently opened to soulful travelers by a most hospitable Mexican named Jorge. I immediately felt at home and upon my arrival I met Evelyn who too was traveling solo from NYC. A serendipitous meeting resulting in instant friendship. Together we caroused this vibrant city that spoke of a colorful history, and became enamored with the art, culture and indeed the food! Huevos rancheros has become a staple in my diet, at least for the moment.
The courtyard of the Palacio Nacional in the Zocalo, the heart of old Mexico City. Within it´s walls Diego Rivera´s murals reveal the history of Mexico.
A modern and majestic sculpture along Paseo de la Reforma.
With each visit to London my love affair with this enchanting city continues. I am now staying on the Thames with my dear friend Brandy and her boyfriend Keith. I was fortuitously treated by Brandy to a decadent dinner at Ubon, one of Nobu’s several eateries. This evening I took a walk along the river…Tower Bridge is a grand sight, majestically illuminated against a deep blue sky. My night was spent at the Tate Modern, viewing work by artists from around the globe, a brilliant collection! It feels good to be back on English soil.
Bartosz’ new flat in East London, designed and decorated by this talented young lad, well done!!
A cheeky night of revelry with Aga and Ian.
From Luxembourg I took the train to Brussels, headquarters of most of the European Union’s institutions. Both culinarily and culturally speaking, it was really the chocolate that I was eager to ingest, as well as the traditional fare of waffles, mussels and beer. Belgians possess quite a savory palate! Tomek who lives in this frenetic city, joined me in a feast of delectable moules. I think I have had my fix!
Luxembourg was voted the City of Culture in 2007, a title designated by the European Union in order for a city to exhibit its cultural life on an international level. Needless to say I sought to find a bit of this culture. What I found was an elegant little city which felt very manageable and lively without an air of pretension, though it happens to be one of the wealthiest in the world. Luxembourg is a country of under half a million people, many of whom come from neighboring Belgium, France and Germany, creating a large ex-pat community. Ruled by a Grand Duke, it is the world’s only remaining sovereign Grand Duchy. I was well charmed by this intimate city.
Sometimes there is simply nothing to be said, and everything to be seen and felt. Such was my experience as we drove along the lake from Lausanne to Vevey, home to Mathias and one of the most beautiful scenes I have laid my eyes upon. On the right, the savoy alps diving into the lake. On the left, the steep stairs of the vineyards (this human accomplishment has been awarded the Unesco world heritage).