Michaela Hanke Blog

Heute vor einer Woche...

2011-12-07T21:06:00.002+01:00

... am 30. November konnte ich im Rahmen meiner aktuellen Ausstellung in der Galerie ArtAffair Bilder der letzten Indienreise zeigen und die Besucher an einem grauen Novembertag für ein paar Stunden in einen Farbrausch versetzen.

Das Publikum durfte außerdem einen spannenden Diskurs erleben, herausgefordert durch die Fragen des Galeristen Herrn Krause. Er wollte es genau wissen, bzw. er wollte, dass ich es am Ende des Abends besser weiß. Seine Fragen kreisten wiederholt um die Herangehensweise, mein System dahinter. Er wollte sichergehen, dass ich wirklich etwas zu bieten habe, und keine sogenannten "lucky shots" produziere. Im Laufe des Abends, gelang es ihm, dass ich selber verstand, wo ich mit meiner Kunst stehe und woran ich arbeiten muss. Obwohl immer noch recht schwammig, beschrieb ich ihm und dem aufmerksamen Publikum wie ich arbeite, was ich dabei denke und vorallem fühle. Nie zuvor mußte ich mich derart erklären.

So ähnlich entstand auch schon vor einigen Wochen der Begriff der "haptischen Fotografie", beim Interview mit einer sehr interessierten Jounalistin, der ich das bewegliche "Lensbaby" Objektiv somit erfolgreich beschrieb. Durch die bohrenden Fragen des Galeristen wurde mir klar, dass die Mehrheit der Fotografen einfach anders fotografiert und hier meine Chance liegt. Ich konnte auf alle Fragen authentisch antworten, denn die Antworten liegen in mir und mein Werk ist mir selbst nicht fremd.

Mysore, Markt

Kochi, Bazaar Road

Der ständige Wechsel zwischen der Sichtweise der Reisereportage und meiner impressionistischen Fotokunst mit Lensbaby prägte auch die letzte Indienreise. Doch spielte sich das konkurrierende Verhältnis zwischen künstlerischer und dokumentarischer Arbeit ein und entspannte sich zum Ende der Reise.

Doch wie entsteht nun Fotoimpressionismus? Oft beginnt der Prozess mit der Wahl der Hintergrundfarbe. Wenn es die nicht gibt, dann suche ich nach etwas Neutralem wie ein wolkenloser Himmel oder eine graue Wand. Schwarz meide ich, ebenso wie Gegenlichtsituationen und warmes Sonnenlicht am Spätnachmittag, das verfälscht nur die Farben. Dann sehe die Zutaten für mein Bild auf mich zukommen, rot, gelb, blau...in Farbe gehüllte Menschen, und das Bild entsteht in diesem Moment vor meinen Augen. Wenn die Zutaten bei mir angelangt sind (oder ich bei ihnen) muß alles ganz schnell gehen. Ich habe nur wenige Sekunden, um mein Bild fertigzustellen. Mit den Fingern drücke und quetsche ich mein Lensbaby Objektiv und modelliere so die Unschärfe des Bildes. Dabei habe ich durch den Sucher mein Motiv stets im Blick und entscheide dann intuitiv, wie stark die Konturen verschwimmen sollen und ob ich das Motiv ganz und gar auflösen kann. Jetzt fixiere ich die Komposition und wenn ich es geschafft habe, ist die Fotografie impressionistisch und könnte bestenfalls von einem Monet stammen. Am Ende des Prozesses habe ich das Gefühl, daß meine Hände eins geworden sind mit der Kamera. Ich bin im flow und das ist wahrscheinlich auch der intensivste Moment dieser Produktionsphase, in der die Werke entstehen, man sieht die Welt mit anderen Augen und ist wie im Rausch. Es folgt die totale Erschöpfung und ich muss mich wieder ausruhen, von der Kunst, von Indien.

Cherai Beach

Kochi, Bazzar Road

Mysore, Taylor

Mysore, Palace

Fotoworkshop - Kreative Bildgestaltung u.a. mit Lensbaby

2011-12-06T10:27:00.001+01:00

http://www.fotografie-workshops.de/index.php/Veranstaltungen_Details/events/kreative-bildgestaltung-ua-lensbaby-optik.html

Der Kurs am 17. Dezember wird in jedem Fall stattfinden. Treffpunkt 10Uhr Andreasstadel / Stadtamhof. Wir experimentieren mit kreativen Hilfsmitteln wie zum Beispiel Lensbaby Objektiven, um fotoimpressionistische Bilder zu "malen". Es gibt schon Anmeldungen aber über ein, zwei weitere Teilnehmer wäre ich hoch erfreut.

Take away

2011-11-06T17:01:00.003+01:00

Foto Heike Sigel

Zeigt her...

2011-11-05T17:59:00.001+01:00

Eine Ausstellung ist ein toller Anlass, die eigene Mappe zu aktualisieren. Meine Portfolio steht jetzt als download bereit und ist ab Ende nächster Woche als gedrucktes Exemplar in der ArtAffair in Regensburg einzusehen.

Download als PDF:

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/11491515/Mappe.zip

Reproducible? Ausstellung bei der Galerie Art Affair, Regensburg

2011-11-05T17:50:00.001+01:00

REPRODUCIBLE? - Fotografie und Grafik bei Art Affair

Ausstellung mit Michaela Hanke, Claudia Rogge, Alexander Timofeev, u.a.

04.11. bis 09.12.2011

Die in Regensburg ansässige Künstlerin Michaela Hanke, Jahrgang 1977, dokumentiert in einer neuen Galerieedition im Stil der Lensbaby-Technik Alltagsmomente. Sie schafft mit ihren sanften und fast impressionistischen Arbeiten einen Schnittpunkt zwischen der Technik der Fotografie und der Ästhetik der Malerei.

Die Kunst von Claudia Rogge, Jahrgang 1968, ist beeindruckend und aufregend zeitgemäß. Rogge fotografiert Menschen und zwar als Serialitätsobjekte per Computerkopie. Diese Fotos changieren zwischen Abstraktion, Ornamentalität und Abbildung des Menschen als Klongeschöpf: Ein neuer Stil, eine neue Ästhetik, die einem Lebensgefühl Ausdruck verleiht.

Alexander Timofeev, Jahrgang 1971, ist berühmt für seinen virtuosen altmeisterlichen Malstil. Seine Sujets beschwören das Dunkle und Gefährliche einer Vergangenheit, die sich in die Gegenwart einkerbt. Das Herausfordernde seiner Motive findet sich wieder in den sehr modern wirkenden Siebdrucken, in denen Macht und Rausch des technischen Zeitalters thematisiert werden.

Events:

Künstlergespräch mit Michaela Hanke:

Die Fotografin spricht über Techniken, Inspiration und zeigt Impressionen ihrer aktuellen Arbeitsreise nach Indien im November 2011

Mittwoch, 30.11.2011 um 19 Uhr

ARTAFFAIR

Galerie für moderne Kunst

Neue Waag Gasse 2

93047 Regensburg

Tel: 0049(0) 941 5 99 95 91

www.art-affair.net

Heute gesehen...

2011-11-05T16:51:00.000+01:00

Heute in der Mittelbayrischen Zeitung...

2011-11-04T11:36:00.000+01:00

Link zur Mittelbayrische Zeitung

Fotospaziergang

2011-11-03T19:46:00.000+01:00

Was lernt man bei so einem Fotospaziergang mit mir? Die Grundeinstellungen der Spiegelreflexkamera, Weißabgleich, Empfindlichkeit (ISO-Wert), Räumlichkeit und Brennweite, Zeit- und Blendenkombinationen, Belichtungskorrekturen, Selektive Schärfentiefe, Bewegungsunschärfe und Bildgestaltung!

Die nächsten Foto-Workshops finden Ende November statt. Mehr Infos unter www.fotografie-workshops.de
25.11. / 26.11 CRASHKURS Fotografie (Regensburg)

8.-11.12. WINTERSCHOOL Ostsee (Zingst)

17.12. LENSBABY Fotografie (Regensburg)

Jahreskurs Fotografie 2012/2013 an der Volkshochschule Regensburg

2011-10-11T13:22:00.000+02:00

Fotoausstellung "Einblicke & Ausblicke" in Kelheim

2011-09-25T23:00:00.000+02:00

Bei den Regional- und Umwelttagen wurden heute am 25. September 2011 in Kelheim die Fotos der ersten 4 Wanderungen präsentiert. Es war mir eine Freude, die Motive für den barrierefreien Tourismus im Landkreis Kelheim von Menschen mit und ohne Handicap, ob jung oder alt, zu entwickeln.

Heute wurden sie der Öffentlichkeit präsentiert und zur Wahl der Lieblingsmotive freigegeben. Es sollen Postkarten entstehen, um den barrierefreien Tourismus im Unteren Altmühltal und Donautal zu bewerben. Nächsten Frühjahr geht es dann weiter mit neuen Wanderungen und Fotografien...

Projekt Kunsttheke

2011-08-16T02:23:00.000+02:00

Endlich ist es soweit. Ich eröffne meinen ersten Online-Shop für Fotokunst und limitierte Editionen. Die Idee ist es, meine bisherigen Ausstellungen für den Verkauf anzubieten, aber auch Werke andere Fotokünstlern zu integrieren.

www.kunsttheke.com

Den Anfang macht Lensbaby (exhibition nr.1)

Mittendrin statt nur dabei - Veröffentlichungen zum Projekt "Barrierefrei"

2011-07-26T23:58:00.000+02:00

Eine Veröffentlichung im aktuellen Aktions-Magazin (gefördert von Aktion Mensch) zeigt das rege Interesse an diesem Projekt. Meine Fotos finden dabei rundum Verwendung und tragen zur Bekanntheit der barrierefreien Wanderwege in der Kelheimer Region Altmühltal / Donautal bei.

Ein schöner Tag in Essing

2011-07-26T23:50:00.000+02:00

Beindruckende Felsen umrahmen den Kunstweg in Essing, der mit Trigrammen und Skulpturen aufwartet. Wie uns der Bürgermeister von Essing, Herr Novi, erzählt, wird der Kunstweg ständig um neue Kunstwerke erweitert. Wir sind erstmal zufrieden und genießen die schönen Ausblicke. Meine Fotomodelle sind wieder ein absoluter Traum. Ich finde richtig Spaß an der Arbeit mit den Rollis und geistig Behinderten. Irgendwie ist der Drang zum Perfektionismus nicht da und es fotografiert sich auch unbeschwerter in diesem freundlichen Ambiente. Jeder ist einfach nur glücklich dabei zu sein. Wir sind wieder eine gemischte Gruppe und testen auch diesen Wanderweg mit Rollstuhl und Kamera. Entlang der Restalmühl, einem gar beschaulichen Flüsschen, erleben wir nun also "Kunst an Fels und Fluss".

Ein Wettrennen auf Deutschland's längste Holzbrücke..wird Herr Schmidtbauer den Moritz am Ende doch noch überholen? Auch heute gibt es soviel Fotomotive, dass ich als Fotografin gar nicht anders kann, als fröhlich vor mich hin zulachen. Alles im Kasten.

Mit Rollstuhl und Kamera durch's schöne Riedenburg

2011-07-15T15:38:00.003+02:00

http://mittendrin-kelheim.blogspot.com/

Die fotografische Begleitung der geistig und körperlich behinderten Menschen geht in die zweite Runde. Die Gruppe scheint mit jeder Wanderung zu wachsen. Die Resonanz ist großartig. Alle Teilnehmer waren auch wieder einverstanden, für die Fotografie Modell zu stehen und leisten somit einen wesentlichen Beitrag zur Bekanntmachung von behindertengerechten Wanderungen entlang der Donau im Landkreis Kelheim.

Meine Bilder finden nicht nur Verwertung bei der touristischen Vermarktung der Region, sondern auch auf dem Blog der Inklusions-Beauftragten Petra Ellert. Wie schön!

Auf ein Neues am 22. Juli in Essing.

Barrierefreies Wandern und Fotografieren im Altmühltal

2011-07-07T11:27:00.000+02:00

Im Rahmen des Projektes "Barrierefreies Naturerlebnis" begleite ich diesen Sommer eine gemischte Gruppe an fotointeressierten Menschen mit geistig und körperlicher Behinderung jeden Alters. Aber auch Menschen ohne Behinderung nehmen teil. Gemeinsam erkunden wir die Wanderwege im Unteren Altmühltal und Donautal, welche barrierefrei ausgebaut wurden. Bei den Testtouren entstehen unter meiner Regie Bilder für eine gemeinsame Ausstellung und Bildmaterial für den Tourismusverband Kehlheim. Nach der Weltenburger Enge stehen Wanderungen in Riedenburg und Essingen auf dem Programm.

Die Teilnehmer können sich somit nicht nur als Tester der neuen behindertentauglichen Wanderwege sondern auch als Model einbringen. Denn mit meinem Bildmaterial sollen nach Förderzusage des Umweltministeriums die barrierefreien Naturschönheiten auch touristisch in vermarktet werden.

New Zealand is open - Mein fotografischer Beitrag nach dem Erdbeben

2011-03-23T22:00:00.002+01:00

http://www.tourismnewzealand.com/news-and-features/latest-news/2011/03/new-zealand-is-open-campaign/

Catch of the day - Dallas holding fresh crayfish, Doubtful Sound, Fiordland, NZ 2011

Tourism New Zealand Campaign, March 2011 (Australia / rest of the world)

Meine Dauerausstellung im Akademiesalon Regensburg - Motive wechseln

2011-03-08T10:44:00.001+01:00

Lensbaby Ausstellung bis Dezember verlängert

2010-11-08T17:30:00.001+01:00

Diese und weitere Fotografien sind weiterhin zu besichtigen im Regensburger Akademiesalon / Künstlerhaus Andreasstadel. Anfang Dezember werden derzeit noch nicht verkaufte Werke versteigert. Ich freue mich auf Eure Gebote per email an info@michaelahanke.com

Bis die Muße küßt - Ostsee Auszeit

2010-08-18T12:44:00.009+02:00

"Wenn der Mensch zur Ruhe gekommen ist, dann wirkt er" Francesco Petrarca

Monets mit Kamera - Lensbaby Fotoworkshop

2010-08-15T12:34:00.012+02:00

“Manche Bilder sehen wirklich aus wie gemalt...” schreibt mir eine Teilnehmerin des Workshops vom 31. Juli 2010. Impressionistische Malversuche mit der Digitalkamera sind extrem kreative und lohnenswerte Gehversuche im Unscharfmodus. Neben vielen Anregungen zum Einsatz der genialen Lensbaby Objektive wird im Workshop ein wesentlicher Vorteil der digitalen Fotografie vermittelt: Mit Hilfe des Kamera-Displays können wir ein Bild förmlich vor unseren Augen entstehen lassen. Ob Bildausschnitt, Komposition oder Belichtung – jede Einstellung kann sofort korrigiert werden. Das der ambitionierte Fotograf dabei zwangsläufig anfängt, mit Unschärfe zu experimentierten, liegt am kreativen Potential der Technik. Durch geschicktes Verwackeln oder mit Hilfsmitteln wie den Lensbaby Objektiven Muse oder Composer gewinnen unsere Bilder überraschend schnell an impressionistischem Flair. Bei der Gestaltung sollen wir uns von Gefühlen leiten lassen.“... malen Sie das in Form und Farbe genau so wie Sie es empfinden, bis der naïve Eindruck, den Sie von der Szene haben, wiedergegeben ist” (Monet). Mit jedem Klick geht es weniger um die Abbildung des Gesehenen, sondern um den kreativen Gestaltungsprozess. Dabei muss man manchmal sehr schnell sein und die Kamera fest im Griff haben. Die Grundregeln der Bildkomposition helfen harmonische Resultate zu erzielen. Regeln mal bewußt brechen ist aber auch Teil der Workshop-Erfahrung. Beim Display-Check sollte die Belichtungskorrektur zugunsten einer satten Überbelichtung ruhig öfter über den Haufen geworfen werden.

Vielen Dank an elfpunkt http://www.elfpunkt.de/ und die Workshopteilnehmer für ihr Aufnahmefähigkeit und begeisterte Umsetzung.

Ein Tag mit Kindern der Bischof-Wittmann Schule

2010-08-07T14:58:00.017+02:00

Wenn man die Chance bekommt, als Fotograf ganz besonderen Kindern eine Freude zu machen, so tut man dies und zwar herzlich gern. Ich bekam diese Möglichkeit vor ein paar Tagen und habe Stunden mit den Kindern der Bischof-Wittmann Schule verbracht, die mich sehr herzlich willkommen hiessen. Mein Besuch wurde durch die Lehrerin gross angekündigt und vorbereitet, zB. Dankeskarte schreiben, Blumen und Kuchen kaufen etc. Mein Besuch sollte bei der Umsetzung eines künstlerisch gestalteten Heftes zum Thema Pflanzen helfen. Dafür besuchten wir am Vormittag den Botanischen Garten der Universität Regensburg. Der Schulgarten sollte uns genug Motive bieten, schließlich hat man ja auch sich selbst noch hinreichend als Motiv zur Verfügung. Die behinderten Kinder im Alter von 6-9 Jahren waren sehr empfänglich für die Fotografie und ihre Hilfsmittel, z.B. die große Kamera. Die Begeisterung zeigte sich insbesondere im Ergebnis. Die Fotos sind fester Bestandteil des Pflanzenbuches geworden und entstandene Gruppenfotos Teil der Erinnerung an einen besonderen Tag - für Kinder und Fotografin.

Im Strom

2010-07-20T20:42:00.020+02:00

Als Menschen in der ständigen Bewegung wird uns manchmal das Schönste offenbart. Wenn Konturen um uns herum verschwimmen, klare Linien und Gedanken sich auflösen, beginnt uns eine subtilere Sichtweise zu erfreuen. Wir beginnen Farben und Formen in einer neuen Herrlichkeit wahrzunehmen, denn diese - von Konturen und Details befreit - entfalten ihre ganze Pracht vor unseren Augen. Der flüchtige Moment erweckt nun eine bleibende Kraft, eine Anziehungskraft zwischen zwei Menschen, geboren im Strom des Lebens.

Diese und viele weitere Fotografien sind seit dem 15. Juli 20010 in Akademiesalon im Künstlerhaus Andreasstadel www.akademiesalon.de zu besichtigen. Die Ausstellung geht bis zum 19. September aber vielleicht auch länger, denn jedes verkaufte Werk wird durch ein Neues ersetzt und der Besucher nicht müde sich daran zu erfreuen.

Junge Kunst zwischen Malerei und Fotografie - Ausstellung 2010

2010-06-28T09:20:00.032+02:00

Vielen Dank an die Besucher des Ostengassenfestes und besonders an die vielen Regensburger und Weithergereisten (sogar aus Neuseeland), die sich an meiner Ausstellung im Klara Kloster erfreut haben. Das Feedback war überwältigend und ich fühle mich mehr denn je motiviert und bestärkt auf meinem Weg als Fotokünstlerin.

Die ausgestellte Serie zeigt Lensbaby Arbeiten aus Indien und Bayern. Die Fotografien strahlen Entschlossenheit und Lebensfreude aus. Ein Besucher sagte, sie haben einen wahrhaft positiven Drive. Einer Vielzahl der Besucher gefielen vor allem die wunderschönen Farben, die durch die besondere Technik mit Lensbaby Objektiven stark in den Vordergrund treten. Viele aufmerksame Betrachter haben auch bemerkt, dass die Werke wie gemalt erscheinen. In der Tat, meine Kunst liegt zwischen Malerei und Fotografie. Sie ist viel weicher und schemenhafter als die herkömmliche Fotografie. Dabei verzichte ich absichtlich auf Details und lasse den Eindruck des flüchtigen Moments entstehen. Farben und Formen werden von Konturen befreit, ihre Lebendigkeit entfesselt. Licht spielt eine entscheidende Rolle wie bei den Freiluftmalern des Impressionismus.

Lensbaby is magic!

2009-09-22T14:55:00.011+02:00

http://www.elfpunkt.de

Please find all information about my first workshop in Germany - Creative Photography in Regensburg! You don't need a lensbaby or creative filters (we have them) but an open mind, an SLR camera and some experience in photography (you know about aperature and shutter speed, right). This is for the those who want to go further and beyond traditional photography as we know it. First learn about the rules and than break them - this what we will do, and we will do it in style with some magnificient outcome!

Neuseeland im Regensburger Caffe Letterario

2009-09-02T10:40:00.018+02:00

Im ganz besonderen Format zeige ich die landschaftliche Vielfalt und Weite Neuseelands. Die Panoramen im 75 x 24cm Format sind als signierte Limitierte Edition zu erwerben.

Am 17. September 2009 ab 20 Uhr gibt es einen Finissage-Abend. Kommen Sie vorbei und freuen Sie sich auf Tips und Anregungen zum Thema Landschaftsfotografie aus meinem Erfahrungsschatz.

Neuseeland Fotoausstellung in Regensburg - Naturparadies im Panoramaformat

2009-09-02T10:36:00.004+02:00

Lensbaby Workshops in Regensburg - Coming up

2009-04-06T13:22:00.021+02:00

http://www.elfpunkt.de/

Swinging by in Berlin for my exhibition

2009-03-23T08:58:00.008+01:00

Welcome to my blog. I hope you enjoy my first photography exhibition in Berlin (until May 2009). Please let me know your thoughts and feedback.

Have a great day!

Thank you for coming!

2009-01-26T09:30:00.018+01:00

It is with great pleasure that I can announce my first photography exhibition in Berlin/Germany. The presentation of grand panorama images of New Zealand is about to start. The opening is on the 6th February from 7.30pm with a talk & slideshow along with some nibbles and drinks. Plenty of time to drop by, the exhibition runs for nearly 3 months. For Berlin weekenders, its open on Saturday (12-4pm)as well. Hope you can make it!

New Zealand photo exhibit on its way...

2009-01-20T16:29:00.014+01:00

Captured are the native forests that have remained largely untouched by man, as well as the vast area of mountains, lakes and fiords showcasing the beautiful country in its different lights. All photographs reflect the heart and soul of a wilderness that I have bonded with forever. For further information re my exhibition please contact me via email info@michaelahanke.com

Time travel - Regensburg, Germany

2008-12-22T14:07:00.005+01:00

After a few days in the snow back home I travelled around Germany to find the best christmas market and I found it whilst visiting a friend in Regensburg, a city in Bavaria with more than 2,000 years of European history. The large medieval center of Regensburg had little damage from Allied air raids during World War II and thus has an almost intact medieval city center. It has its roots as a medieval trading centre and as home of the assemblies of the Holy Roman Empire. Around 90 B.C., the Romans established a military camp nearby and by 179 A.D., in the time of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, there was a permanent fortress named Castra Regina within the boundaries of what is now Regenburg's Altstadt. The city continued to grow, but much of Regensburg as it exists today was built by wealthy merchant families over the next few centuries. These traders had no compunctions about flaunting their wealth; some of their houses had purely decorative towers that made them the McMansions of the Middle Ages. And today, nestled amongst these medieval towers we mingle through pockets of christmas markets or better christkindel markets as people in Bavaria call them. Although many events have taken place since Regensburg's Altstadt looks much as it did during its heyday as a Free Imperial City, when the old merchants' houses were taken over by bureaucrats and emissaries, when a permanent Reichstag was established within its walls and Regensburg was the seat of Germany's first parliament 1663, for 150 years.

The carefully preserved medieval buildings that coexist with structures from the Roman Era teach us German history whilst indulging in the German delicatessen, mulled wine and sausages.

And in my head the christmas music tootles "Last christmas I gave you my heart..."

Feedback & feeds back on the cold snowy ground

2008-12-08T09:35:00.003+01:00

I guess I am thrilled to be back in Germany temporarily and enjoy the staggering beauty of white pre-christmas in my lovely German hometown that brings tears of joy, pride and admiration to my travelled eyes. I have arrived savely after a long trip that took me to so many beautiful places like Nepal and India but really home has its beauty also...and an English fellow I met in Bangkok a few weeks ago just commented on my website and photographs I took when I lived in England in a very similar way:

Hi Michaela,

I met you in Bangkok...I really was impressed with a lot of your photos.

Some of the images from England have made me think that I don't need to travel so far afield to take photos of people and cultures when there is so much at home, if I only open my eyes to it. The English seaside, ice-cream and people photos really reminded me of the work of Martin Parr, who has captured many sides of England in really iconic ways. Therefore, you must be doing something right!

Falling in love with India - Jodhpur, Rajasthan

2008-12-01T09:32:00.008+01:00

Taste India and come back for a feast!

2008-12-01T08:55:00.008+01:00

Yes indeed its been really just like a delicious taste of India and I am looking forward to come back for a massive feast. Despite the sad recounts of the Mumbai tragedy that brought tears to my eyes over the last days, I must admit I deeply enjoyed my brief India experience. I will take some beautiful memories with me and the "Love India list" is definetely longer than the annoyances.

Jodphur was my last stop, the "blue city", painted in indigo blue to keep cool in the hot summer. The days have glamourously ended with one of the counless wedding fireworks across the city. Also, I managed to strike a few more friendships on my last leg of the trip travelling alone. That reassured me once again of the pleasure and my ability of venturing on my own.

Loving India because of its...
...people, who nourish one another with their smiles and conversation, no matter how poor they seem a happy.
...colors, be the pink or indigo blue paint of Jaipur or Jodhpur houses or the bright, intense sari colors hiding the women from Indian men who love starring at the other sex.
...food, I am talking fresh fruits, lassis, curd (yoghurt), naan bread and yummie things to go with. it, sweets and chai for the "extrem sweet tooth" amongst us.
...attention, absolutely everyone takes an interest in you, big booster for self esteem if you need one.
...sights, landmarks like medivial fortresses and palaces, courtyards and backstreets in the old cities.
...yoga, they are making it compulsary in schools to fight increasing obesity and diabetis.

Not particular keen on the...
...noise in the streets, drives you mad after a while but can fix it with earl plugs.
...constant stream of "Excuse me" or "Yes madam" or "What country", you have to learn to strictly ignore them all which is a shame cause you being really rude.
...Indian men and how they treat women, but they are exceptions to the rule and things are getting better very obviously.
...smell, smog, stink, a product of extreme overpopulation and poor living conditions.
...terrorist attacks striking behind your back after you visited a great city just as Mumbai.

Beautiful madness - Jaipur, Rajasthan

2008-12-01T08:23:00.019+01:00

Dharavi slum dogs - Mumbai, Maharashtra

2008-12-01T08:04:00.011+01:00

Yes Madam, no Sir!

2008-11-27T09:13:00.008+01:00

We got out of Mumbai before the terror attack..in fact 1 day before. Its a very fine line between happiness and tragedy, and life reminds us all the time. Always expect the unexpected...

Meantime we have spent a great day in Jaipur - in the pink city. At sunset buildings bask in magical pink and sunny glow, we are stunned by the colors. A Maharaja in 1876 had decided to have the entire city painted pink, a color associated with hospitality, just in time for a high visit from the British crown. The straight avenues laid out at the times as well in retangular squares make it very easy for us to navigate around the city, to the Observatory and the Palace of the Winds, by day and night. Having a fantastic guide, Andreas, helps and we eat so well that all the exhaustion from the day is soon forgotten when sipping a safran lassi or masala chai. Outside shit can happen..the cows waddle through the streets and relief themselves where ever..you really have to watch your step. Takes a day or two to get used to as well to the piles of garbage hidden in the narrow side streets and the smell. But on a positive note we are surrounded by candyfloss-bright turbans and saries that catch the eye like butterflies. The pink beams best at dusk and dawn and we perceive the city both proud and beautiful but nonetheless chaotic when in full swing...we are off to another chai place to escape the hustling richshaw drivers and dangerous cow poo for a while.

Welcome to the jewel in the British crown!

2008-11-24T08:16:00.008+01:00

Flying out of Kathmandu was somewhat of a miracle. The Himalaya range dragged on and on until we nearly touchdown in Delhi. I couldn't take my eyes off the beautiful sight and nearly spilled my lunch allover me. It was just so exciting to see the never ending line up of 8.000m peaks in the sky. In my mind I am saying good bye to Nepal thanking my friends Barbara & Xavier for having joined me. Love you! See you at home in Germany or France!

Once in Delhi taking my connecting flight to Mumbai - in India indead- everything went just smooth! Whats all that horror story bullshit about India? I am on my 3rd day in Mumbai now already and I have every minute of it so far. In fact I am over the moon. Having met my friend Marlen and her friends helped, Lukas & Jens have spent 3 months in Mumbai last year working on a architecture project in Dharavi, the biggest slum in India. Yesterday we spent the whole afternoon visiting Dharavi and despite the fear I just loved the experience of it. Being welcomed, greeted, touched and indeed starred at by thousands of the half million people that live in a space not bigger than Berlin Tiergarten was quite staggering. An overwhelming amount of smiles and excitement swept over us within a few hours. A "happy" experience. The best way to describe it is from the book I am reading, Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts:

"I looked at the people and saw how busy they were. Occasional sudden glimpses inside huts revealed the astonishing cleanliness of that poverty, the spotless floors and glistening metal pots in neat towers. And I saw how beautiful they were: the women wrapped in crimson, blue and gold, walking barefoot through the shabbiness of the slum with patient ethereal grace, the white-toothed, almond-eyed handsomeness of the men and the affectionate camaraderie of the fine-limbed children, older ones playing with younger ones, many of them supporting baby brothers and sisters on slender hips. And...I smiled..."

For some bizarre reasons we ended up singing Christmas carols for the local church of the slum which they appreciated and thanked us with a meal and chai tea. Crazy day and getting there and away was of the same adventurous nature as we took the train and even the ladies compartment was packed as. We squeeze in... Wow, Mumbai, a metropolis, mega city and we are right in the middle of it riding the night train home, surfing the city lights with the beautiful sari ladies around us and looking forward to a posh Indian meal on the roof terraces of Colada/Mumbai's rich tourist city center. Mega mega...contrasts.

Off to India!

2008-11-24T08:14:00.002+01:00

Faces of Nepal - Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

2008-11-24T08:11:00.008+01:00

From subtropics to snowland and desert - Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

2008-11-21T11:10:00.026+01:00

Facts & figures:

1 yak steak to give us horse power

2 porters to guide us, Bikal & Tukar love "Dhal Bat" (Nepali dish)

3 trekkers to face the challenge of their lifetime, Michi, Barbi & Xavi easy to pronounce in Nepali

4 days into the trek to have our first victim of mountain sickness (headache & vomit)

5 pm time for powercut, bring on the candlelight dinner...

9 times we bump into our John&Matt from Sydney/Australia
10 days to reach the "Thorung La", the world largest pass and our highest point (5.416m)!

11 years old Susma Thapa lives in Humde (3.280m) all her life, what a sweet girl

13 days total trekking time, moving between the subtropics and the austern alpine climes

14 seats in the airplane we take to fly out from Jomsom to Pokhara on our last day

15 "German" bakeries advertised on trail (estimated)

16 different nationalities we can recall having met on trek

17 Diamox tablets taken to cure arising mountain sickness

18 garlic gloves eaten to keep us going

24 Snickers bought in Chame (2.670m), a Tibetan influenced village like most in this region

26 suspension bridges crossed

40 years we think is the average age of Annapurna circuit trekkers

50 LSF sun protection is required as well as high quality sunglasses and lipbalm

65 % of trekkers of Annapurna are either French or German

70% of trekkers get some symptomes of mountain sickness due to high altitude

90 games of cards played during entire trek (estimated)

91 % oxygene saturation in my blood in Manang (3.540m)

94 pulse/heart rate same place, same day

100 Rupees payed for a bag of sweets we give to kids (tooth brushes would have been better)

130 Rupees price of most expensive mineral water bottle on trek

140 kilometers walking distance between Besi Sahar and Jomsom

250 US$ total budget for food and accomodation per person

300 mule caravans we share the trail

820 meters altitude of Besi Sahar - starting point of trek

2.730 meters altitude of Jomsom - finishing point of trek

5.416 meters altitude of Thorung La pass - highest point of trek

7.000 Rupees tip for our porters, they spend for family
10.000 trekkers each year to walk Annapurna Circuit (estimated)

We've done it together! - Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

2008-11-21T10:31:00.024+01:00

Waking up to Bhaktapur

2008-11-02T14:47:00.004+01:00

'Tika' time - Hindu ceremony for the New Year

2008-11-02T14:33:00.008+01:00

Ananda Yoga Center - Kathmandu

2008-11-02T14:26:00.004+01:00

Selling color powder for festival

2008-11-02T14:19:00.002+01:00

Namaste! - A warm welcome to Nepal

2008-11-02T13:27:00.006+01:00

Namaste! The most common Nepali greeting meaning "the divine in me blesses&honours the divine in you". The days in the Ananda Yogacenter in the outskirts of Kathmandu have been a very gentle introduction to Nepali culture away from the noice and dirt of the polluted capital city. But apart from the pollution and a few other minor annoyances Nepal has proved a very rich experience so far.

I couldn't believe my eyes when I arrived in Kathmandu! The city is an "easy" version of India, packed with Hindu culture and people, vibrant colours in the streets, women in beautiful Sarees or Kortas, a real buzz and divine food smell in the air. The narrow streets are packed with tiny shops and stalls...crazy. The people are fast to smile, slow to show anger. It is a pleasure to be here!

Nepal is a really good place to also pick up some knowledge about Hindu culture. In fact the country is a meeting place of different ethnic groups, culture from India (Hindu) is blending with northern Himalayan Tibetan cultures (Buddhism). Because the biggest ethnic group of the Kathmandu Valley is Newari, a Hindu religion, I could witness a lot of their traditions over the last days and luckily take part in the festival for the New Year - a 5 day Hindu worship-marathon! As part of this, Newari people worship their goddess Lakshmi and ask for prosperity for the New Year! The girls go around houses to bless eachother and sing & dance for money which I also did together with the other Yoga participants and our wonderful teacher Ganga and her sisters. That night there also was a firework as you do for New Years's eve. It was a beautiful experience and there was more to come...

An important part of the New Year's Day celebration is to give tika to your brother or sister, protection for the year to come. It is very much the biggest family event amongst Newari people and beautiful orange garlands decorate the houses. With dedication people dress up for the special day and drive out from the city into their villages to unite with family members. It was that day that I have also left for a small village called Sankhu from where I planned to hike up to Nargakot and further to Bhaktapur which I all did. Only that my hike was delayed by the "Tika ceremony". On the bus from Kathmandu to Sankhu I sat next to a beautiful girl called Anjali. She invited me to come to her home to also receive a tika for the New Year. I couldn't say no and I am glad I didn't. It was a pleasure and I felt very honoured as their guest. It was very cosy, with candle lights inside the dark mud house, wonderful smells of incents, flowers, fruits and sweets, outside the cows making noises... All brothers and sisters of the extended family joined up and received tika and gifts along with it...it really made me want to organise a big family event like this.

After this I made my way to all the places I wanted to go including a visit of the most ancient Hindu temple of Changu Narayan. A few hours later an I am anticpating the arrival of my friends in Kathmandu!

Giving alms - Luang Prabang, Laos

2008-10-23T19:39:00.012+02:00

Blowing bubbles - Vang Vieng, Laos

2008-10-23T19:24:00.006+02:00

Lao lao land

2008-10-23T16:34:00.004+02:00

How refreshing to wake up to the morning mist nestling amongst the lush green limestone peaks that surround Vang Vieng. Once a sleepy little village it has turned into a popular travellers destination and that not just for its dramatic scenery. The place brings out a smile for everyone coming throug depending what you after...

Fancy floating down the river on a inner tractor rube watching the world go? OR do you want to enjoy some of the finest mountain scenerey the world has to offer? Always wanted to know what Thailand was like in the past before the world came to visit? Want to get a flavour for how the Hmong people live up high up in in the mountains where the world ends for most of us? You walk to fast and need to slow down? You like to smile? You should go to Laos to get all this and more...

The 2 places I went to visit were Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. Between the two places where the road winds its way up north you find lush countryside that reminded me a lot of New Zealand, so green and untouched. After a few days in Vang Vieng I was off to Luang Prabang with an Austrian guy called Roland. His talent of attracting attention from either boy or girl made it really easy for me to meet Lao people or other travellers. That way I have learned some local language which I wouldn't have bothered otherwise. We did some hiking, caving, swimming which is always more fun together. I was pretty stoked about his communication skills especially with the Lao kids that got me some awesome pictures. He was blowing soap bubbles to make them smile, that even worked with the Hmong people that we met in the mountains near Vang Vieng.

In Luang Prabang the most random things happened. First, the only quick way to make my way back to Bangkok was to take the expensive airplane. But the day I wanted to fly there was a special promotion: Buy one flight, get one free. It not only takes two to tango but also to fly. Roland had to be back in Bangkok at the same time as me so that worked out sweet. Then on the way up to the Phu Si, the hill from which you can overlook the most beautiful, well preserved French colonial town of Luang Prabang, I bumped into Lauren & Naval! The funny Irish couple from the Bolivian jungle! I LOVE WHEN SUCH THINGS HAPPEN. Total random things that are evidence that life flows and things unfold the way they are supposed to.

In a nutshell, Laos was a good place to kick back, to recover from the volunteering and the sad Khmer Rouge holocaust stories of Cambodia. I couldn't have wished for a better travel mate than Roland, Austrian yet adventurous, childish yet charming...plus I ended up with tons of inspiration for books, movies, websites to check out.

Now off to Nepal!!!

Orphans in the "Riverhouse" - Siem Reap, Cambodia

2008-10-15T16:56:00.002+02:00

Below are five orphans whose parents are either dead or have vanished to Thailand to find a better life. Amongst them Pania who is the lucky one that has just received sponsorship from volunteers we worked with us the last week.

Pania, 7 years old - a heartbreaker maybe?

2008-10-15T16:46:00.000+02:00

Makara, 12 years old - a doctor maybe?

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Srey-Sara, 14 years old - an actress maybe?

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Bo, 10 Years old - a soldier maybe?

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Sayhra, 14 years old - a musician maybe?

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Kids at school

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We love you teacher!

2008-10-15T16:19:00.004+02:00

Swept away by the days of teaching orphans and poor kids in Siem Reap / Cambodia. Dani & I stayed at the orphanage "Riverhouse" and did teaching at "Veal Village School".

Every moment with the kids was a moment of treasure. We didn't actually plan on doing this but teaching English and looking after the kids turned out to be the best experience of our trip. Despite the terrible heat in the class rooms (figure they don't have electricity for fans) we survived in style and the kids loved their volunteering teachers and they called us "T'cha".

The volunteering was for SOID - Support Orphans and Indigenous people Development. A non-profit organisation desperately in need for our help - either through teaching, donation or sponsoring a child. We did the first but thinking of doing more. Please see above for some of the orphans that need sponsorship to continue education and living at the orphanage. All info and contact details can also be found on facebook, just search SOID.

The Angkor team - Dani, me & Mr. Lee

2008-10-15T16:13:00.004+02:00

Time travel to ancient Angkor

2008-10-08T07:58:00.014+02:00

Angkor What???

2008-10-08T07:56:00.002+02:00

Angkor What??? A vast complex of ancient temples in the Cambodian jungle that takes at least 3 days to just get a taste for more. You might also be templed out, depends on your appetite.

Angkor Watt no doubt is flagship of Angkor and its reflections at sunset in a pool of water are the iconic image on numerous postcards sold by Cambodian kids . Another enchanting temple is Bayon with its giant stone faces and the iconic Buddha smile. You see monks in bright orange frocks disappearing up the stairs...

But the magic temple for us was Ta Phrom... lost to the jungle but there for us to explore in the early morning. We are stumbling across the ancient ruins gathered with moss. It was calm and deserted when we encountered centuries-old trees growing straight from a sandstone slab and slowly devouring the Buddhist temples. We had the place to ourselves when all of a sudden temple ruins seemed to bath in otherworldly light as first daylight hit. A dreamlike setting from an ancient world.

Kambong Phluk - Village life in the flooded forest

2008-10-07T08:18:00.018+02:00

Tonle Sap cruise

2008-10-07T08:03:00.005+02:00

Michaela!

2008-10-07T07:56:00.001+02:00

When life floats by

2008-10-06T12:09:00.009+02:00

Still working our way through the Angkor ruins and learning about Khmer heritage. We still in Cambodia...staying another day.

We went on a boat trip to Kampong Phluk & Tonle Sap Lake just 1hour out of Siem Reap. Kampong Phluk is a little Khmer village built on permanent stills to survive in the floodplains of a magic lake, the country's source of life "Tonle Sap Lake". During the wet season the surface of the lake extends five fold, a phenomena caused by the swollen Mekong river that pushes back into the lake. The village is submerged as well as the surrounding forest...

Our boat takes us across the flooded forest and we encounter the village at a time when water reaches right to the thresholds of its houses. As we learn, fishing can take place from the living room. The father of a family, that is inviting us into their home, shows us the room where they fish. In the kitchen the daughter cleans some fresh fish. Outside the mother washes the young kids in the lake water. Soap and towel handy in a boat tied to the veranda deck. No electricity. French and Khmer speaking. Everybody very friendly. Amazing.

Later in the year the family will need to leave the village and move out to the lake to maintain fishing. They will establish temporary floating housing, only elderly people will be left behind in the abandoned village, along with the various pigs we have seen today in floating cages. During the dry season the village will look somewhat ridiculous with houses on 5m stilts...imagine. Great day!

Angkor unleashed...

2008-10-03T10:21:00.004+02:00

We are just about to get a good wash from the sky, last monsoon rains before the long dry period, no more rain until may 09. Means nature is at its best, lush and green, rivers swollen and flooding villages nearby. We listen to the rain drums sitting in our favourite dinner place " Dead Fish Tower" in downtown Siem Reap and slowly coming to terms with the fact that we have started to visit the famous Angkor ruins, the remains of the powerful Khmer empire. It seems like some people have been waiting years and years for Cambodia to open its boarders and to give access to these incredible sights.

Capturing Angkor before tourism works its changes seems to be our mission. This place is about to change into a mass tourism destination. Siem Reap, the township besides the ancient Angkor temples. Everywhere seems to be a construction in place, hotels and apartments being built to cater for the increasing number of tourists but also for Khmer people that more and more populate the city. Galleries and cafes open up and Western food is being served widely. Still there is this gentle, friendly atmosphere about upcoming Siem Reap and Angkor's crumblings walls. We slowly start exploring the tourist place but plan to also have a look behind the scenes later, possibly by volunteering in an orphanage to help the real Cambodians and not just foreign business people to leverage of the Angkor boom.

Introducing Cambodia

2008-09-30T14:59:00.002+02:00

A hell of an eye-opener to have arrived in the poor neighbor of Thailand. This poor country has suffered from enormous disadvantages due to recent civil war and consequent communist dictatorship under the Khmer Rouge...a terrible regime that distinguished a quarter of its entire population in its due course...less than 30 years ago!!!

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia is a showcase of its pity history, a city full of contrasts where signs of French colonialism are still be seen (baguette, language & architecture) and run down street slowly awaking to its new age...the age of tourism coming to the country. Its people are the born host, smiling people just like their rich neighbor Thailand. Hence all is still a bit cheaper but Cambodian people learn fast. Only now the first proper roads have been finished aided by international funds to help the country develop and attract and enable foreign visitors to move around the lush, and beautiful country. Eco tourism not in full swing but on its way…We are still to discover its natural and precious sides and have so far only been learning the history part whilst hardly moving around at all (except a dozen rounds in the swimming pool). Dani, my dear friend and travel companion for the next month, has found us an oasis guest house where we are still hidden from the real Cambodia but this shall end when we start exploring the country the river way tomorrow. Time to get out and see the jungle and its hidden treasures such as Angkor Wat!!!

Phnom Penh - A city and its people post-genocide

2008-09-30T14:46:00.006+02:00

Bangkok - Same same but different

2008-09-26T13:52:00.019+02:00

Morning has broken

2008-09-26T06:06:00.003+02:00

Due to jetlag symptomes I decided to got for an early run in Lumpinipark / Bangkok at 5.30am. You would think it is scary because you alone in the dark...quite the opposite. Arriving at the park entrance some people seem to have already finished their morning rounds doing the final stretch. really? Once I walked through the big entrance gates a few meters in...I was joined by joggers, walkers, cyclists of any age group. Early birds the Thai people and they all exercise to greet the new day. I did a few rounds in the crowd (figure 5.45am by now) and the heat gets quite a bit worse. My yoga stretches seem to work so much better with my sweat pouring down like rain, no wonder it has been invented somewhere over here. A few green patches over by the lake a group of oldies teams up for a morning thai chi with an instructor. I decide to join them and find out why they clab their butts whilst leaning forwards. Turns out they also clab their legs and belly and also stretch in all possible human ways human but very slowly...because everyone was older than me I couldn't drop out of exhaustion.Thai poeple are fit and no matter the age, no matter the outfit, some already in office gear with make up and jewellery on, or smart pants and shirt on. After the morning stretches they thank the instructor and everyone else for the good work. I was overwhelmed to say the least. I got back to my hostel at 7am and felt I have done my bit for the day. I might be able to get back to normal sleep tonight, if not I am back at Lumpinipark tomorrow and join the sporty crowd at 5am. Bangkok city never sleeps or at least a very short time...

On the move

2008-09-20T16:29:00.004+02:00

Wir wollen heiter Raum um Raum durchschreiten,
An keinem wie an einer Heimat hängen,
Der Weltgeist will nicht fesseln uns und engen,
Er will uns Stuf´ um Stufe heben, weiten.
Kaum sind wir heimisch einem Lebenskreise
Und traulich eingewohnt, so droht Erschlaffen,
Nur wer bereit zu Aufbruch ist und Reise,
Mag lähmender Gewöhnung sich entraffen.

Hesse, Stufen

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Mauerrest

2008-09-19T09:37:00.041+02:00

Alexanderplatz

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Holocaust memorial

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Reichstag

2008-09-19T09:37:00.037+02:00

Heart of Europe

2008-09-19T09:37:00.004+02:00

I must have spent 2 or 3 weeks in Berlin by now and as our Bundespresident Horst Köhler put it ...a lot of good things have happened in the East. Berlin is a life example for it, the fantastic capital of a united Germany. The heart of Europe, a perfect place to be in the middle of the ride, the ride of life. Because you not alone. I have met plenty of people just like me, travelled, open minded...not found yet what they looking for partner wise but optimists marching into a bright future nevertheless. We are a lucky generation with plenty of opportunities, the challenge is to be content with the choices we have made and not contemplate and regret things we can't change anyways. I feel a lot better than in my last month in New Zealand where I was quite lost despite the wintermärchen. When I did my New Zealand photo presentation in Annaberg the other night for 60 odd people or so...I felt the spirit arising again and was able to give a very emotional talk about my experience at the other end of the world. NZ way of life and attitude have become part of me. They have merged with my German black&white logical get on with things mentality and I believe made me a better person to hang around with. I have learned to take my time, to enjoy the moment and appreciate people and things more for what they are or could be. I think actually gained the ability to lead an accomplished life. For those who have lost their feeling of accomplisment and satisfaction in life...I recommend a time out, spend some time with yourself and get in touch with you again. A lot of people seem to busy to do that...what a shame. Its amazing what you can find and than go for it...

My days in Berlin were a little like an eye opener. The city has improved a lot compared to 5 years ago. I found people more relaxed and open minded, more happy. A good mix of internationals. I must have spoken a good mix of French, German and English in the course of a single day. There were highlights like Metallica concert, Babylon expo and various other photography exhibitions, Potsdam, dinner with friends and lots of dancing about. I remember the Pavillion club where the beat was on and the non-smoking location with airfresh remined me of the perfect night club. Nice to see that smokers have mainly vanished from German pubs and restos. Now they have to gather outside...and I don't have to wash my hair each morning after a night out. It is actually possible not to stink like a cigarette next morning. Yeah Germany, you on the right track!

A quote from our German Bundespräsident that shows the importance of appreciating what we have in life: "Every day I can spend with my wife is a happy day."

Friends

2008-08-28T22:18:00.002+02:00

Ballons rising high...

2008-08-28T22:13:00.001+02:00

Just married

2008-08-28T22:08:00.004+02:00

Wrong finger Lee...

2008-08-28T18:23:00.001+02:00

Kiss

2008-08-28T18:21:00.001+02:00

Bavarian wedding

2008-08-28T18:19:00.001+02:00

Pretty bride...

2008-08-28T18:09:00.002+02:00

A taste of Germany

2008-08-28T16:49:00.006+02:00

And what a good one...been to Berlin and Bavaria, the two hot spots and top tourist destinations in my beautiful country.

Berlin was relaxed. I was instantly at ease and never ceased to feel that way. Travelling across the big city was wonderful, by tram or bike. Berlin air "Berliner Luft"was fresh and the breeze that you can feel in the wide and open streets was simply delightful. The sun was shining on our happy minds and we had a hell of a good time in the green city. Barbara came all the way from Strassbourg, we haven't seen eachother for 2 years and spent four days in the capital with Xavier, who is the Berlin local despite being French and from Brittany. People occured friendly which is quite a new thing for Berlin...their reputation is quite different. I remember Brendon being terrified of going shopping in Berlin, he never managed to meet the speed required to pack his own shopping bags and make room for the next customer. Food was sensational as expected. Very much a trend of German people now to shop Bio products, or shall I say certain people not everyone can afford it. Xav's birthday bash was fun, lack of potatoe salad and sausages but other treats that go better with champagne..oh lala. Amongst the Berlin highlights...a trip to Potsdam and a dip in the lake, beautiful architecture and long warm summer nights with best friends.. Yes, Berlin made an impression. It is hard to resist the exciting capital but I shall wait and see what else happens.

Here we go, Munich is putting a show on for me. But uuh, Bavarian accent I don't like it. On the positive...the Alps just south of Munich, a natural wonderland. I have forgotten how beautiful Bavaria was with its houses just finished off with the pain brush, stunningly perfect. Turquoise lakes hidden between the mountain ranges just like in New Zealand. I had the pleasure to join my friend's wedding. She is this beautiful girl from Saxony who got married to this stunning Kiwi bloke from Christchurch...sounds familiar except I didn't get married aye! It was the wedding of Lee&Denise. With mixed emotions I went to the wedding not sure how to handle the absence of Brendon but I managed really well and with deep contentment I returned. The wedding took place in a little Bavarian village "Kochel am See" and for reception and party we went via gondola to a rustic Alpine hut on a mighty mountain with view. The Kiwis and Saxon familie blended pretty ell, after a few beers it was hard to figure out who was Kiw, who was from Saxony, they looked just the same with a merry smile on their face. Dancing till 5 o'clock prevented me and some others from actually climbing the top of the mountain but I took some photos instead to finish off my job as the official wedding photographer. I must have done well, another guest offered me a job at end of september. Thanks to the married couple for sharing with your wonderful love and friendship, the story of the ginko leave and so much fabuluous music to bring back good memories! Munich has improved in my opinion with you living there and if I had a well paid job there I could certainly pay off a house elsewhere much quicker let's say a house in New Zealand for argument sake, because don't think I can ever afford a Bavarian house.

All sorts of things...

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We cycle and...

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Cecilienhof where A.Merkel dines with Mr president

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Barbara

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Easy & relaxed the Berlin city trains

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I am a Berliner...I think

2008-08-28T15:33:00.001+02:00

Welcome to the land of sausages!

2008-08-17T14:41:00.006+02:00

It tastes so good to be at home again. Germany I am back! Time to indulge in the diversity of the German food paradise. My first impression is wow wow wow. We are such a lucky nation and our supermarkets are full of too much awesome food.

ButI better wrap up the last chapter first...New Zealand in its last days was an up and down. High flying with heli-boarding on Mt Hutt. Turned out to be the most amazing day. I am hooked and will save up for my next heli trip! Imagine boarding on a magical carpet of fresh powder in the remote backcountry of the Southern Alps. Unreal to ride the untouched field of sparkling snow just like surfing the perfect wave. There is no better thing especially on such a sunny day with a perfectly blue sky and views over the snow capped ranges all the way south and to the east with clear views over the Canterbury Plains all the way to the Pacific Ocean...that was clearly the highlight of my last days.

Not so nice to say good bye to Brendon, really sad being cruely aware of the finality of our break up. I wanted to undo the decision once I have seen him again, but of course that is not possible especially if it remains a one way ambition. Every mile further away from New Zealand, every day into the fantastic vacations ahead helps to heal my broken heart. I am still a long way from over this but I can see the benefits of having a go on new things and spending some quality time with my friends and beloved family back home. Talking friends...the farewell dinner with my friends in Christchurch was nice but apart from the fact that a lot of people were sick...for those who were there I feel grateful for having them in my life. I am not so sure when I don´t return to NZ if there is enough backbone for a lifetime friendship. Can you make good enough friends in less than 2 years at our age when partnership, marriage and family ambitions replace the importance of a new friendship? But who knows, I might be positively surprised.

I was so reliefed and happy as to be back home now and find my friends literally waiting for me to come back...have I really been away for so long, live my life so far away??? What is going to happen now? I am torn and no decisions are made yet. But Germany has already put on a good show for me these few days I am back. The sky last night was just as dramatic as in New Zealand and walking through the forest in my "Haamitland" was delightful, very green at the moment, marvellous light, relaxed atmosphere, friendly people greeting you no matter they know you or not. Nice start.

German lifestyle

2008-08-17T14:39:00.004+02:00

In the middle of the ride...

2008-08-03T09:15:00.007+02:00

One of my favourite songs from Jimmy Eat World in the radio yesterday...hey, don't write yourself off yet, its only in your head you feels this way...live right now, do everything you can...it just takes sometimes little girl you in the middle of the ride, everything everything is gonna be alright alright.

Most of this week I would have spent on the couch recovering from a persistent flu. But I allowed myself to go on a day trip to Wanaka with Mary, my lovely English friend from Queenstown. She and her boyfriend Chris are going to look after my van whilst I am away travelling in the next months. Good stuff. Mary understands that I have developed a strong bond with my van particular in the last month. We went for a mini hike up to Mt Iron and enjoyed the incredible 360 degree view over Lake Wanaka and Cardrona Valley. What a beauty though houses seem to grow like mushrooms around here, very popular place to settle. Only that the average younger Kiwi or immigrant can't afford to buy a house here so they end up renting. Nevermind. Mary is a good spirit and seems to share my thoughts and ambitions in life. We also went out together on Saturday night to watch the All Blacks win over the Wallabies, sweet revenge, they smashed them and the whole pub was extremely pleased with the outcome. That needed celebrating!

Another highlight I squeezed in despite my cold was a day up in the mountains - in the Snowpark - to see the last day of the NZ Burton Open Halfpipe contest. That was such an awesome experience seeing the flying Japanese sky rocking...also outside the halfpipe they impressed with style, their funky dress code was wicked, screaming colors, super wide and very low trousers, but super high beanies, ipod tunes, comic heroes and never seen before designs on boards, jackets...style masters! And then...who do you believe sells sausages on the skifield, Heck German Smallgoods...the German butcher from Christchurch! Of course I have one! In order to buy one I need cash, which I don't have cause in NZ everyone accepts plastic, except now. So I wander over to the cafe and get some cash out and decide for a hot choc and sit down...watching the world class border girls and boys from the event relaxing. Kelly Clark, current Olympic gold medal holder of the half pipe was standing next to me earlier on today and we had a chat, sweet. But guess who am I talking to now, Susi from Goerlitz! Nee, East German girls are just everywhere. And I here I sit with another one, we got carried away and talked for at least an hour, nearly forgot about my German sausage I came for to buy. Susi is my age, similar story. She made me feel at ease and better about what I do, who I am... I can't believe what wonderful things sometimes happend out of the blue, loving it!!!! Again, someone you meet for a reason. Needless to say that I bumped into another bunch of great people that day. That's New Zealand, people!

Time flies, 10 more days to Germany!!! Time for some wnowboarding action, T.C. with Mike tomorrow!

NZ Burton Open

2008-08-03T09:08:00.002+02:00

NZ Burton Open

2008-08-03T08:44:00.001+02:00

Reason, season, lifetime

2008-07-28T11:28:00.004+02:00

So here I am free as a bird. Having arrived back down in Arrowtown again tonight was like starting a new era. Christchurch is left behind now with work finished on Friday, some funny Kiwiana party and meeting some friends for a drink. I did enjoy work until my last day, my managers were pleased and thanked me. I guess if I wished to return to work for Pacific Brands again no doubt that I could. They appreciated me allaround and I was grateful for the fantastic opportunity. I liked what one of my collegues/friends said to me that day. In life we meet some people for a reason ( I believe I just did...) , for a season (like a relationship that doesn't last) and for a lifetime...

10 min down the road from new home

2008-07-28T11:22:00.001+02:00

For a reason?

2008-07-28T11:20:00.001+02:00

Maniototo

2008-07-28T11:16:00.002+02:00

Gotta be strong...

2008-07-28T09:36:00.002+02:00