The View From Beacon Hill: A Snapshot of Halifax

On a clear day, there's no better spot to appreciate the town of Halifax than from the top of Beacon Hill. On August 11, 2018, I took my Nikon D3300 up there to capture the incredible views, and what I found was a town that perfectly blends its rich industrial past with its vibrant, modern present.

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A Tale of Two Halves

From this vantage point, you can see Halifax spread out below, a tapestry of old stone buildings and new architectural additions. Looking towards the town centre, the iconic spire of Square Church stands tall, a reminder of the town's Victorian heritage. Nearby, the dramatic, elliptical courtyard of the Piece Hall is instantly recognizable. This former cloth hall, now a stunning public square, sits next to the modern Central Library and the Industrial Museum, illustrating how the town honours its history while embracing the future.

Just a short distance away, the impressive headquarters of the Halifax Bank, a landmark in its own right, shows the town's long-standing connection to finance. As you scan the horizon, you'll also see the sprawling complex of Dean Clough Mills, once a massive carpet factory and now a hub for arts, business, and innovation.

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Past and Present, Side by Side

Halifax is a town of contrasts. Down below, you can spot the lively Broad Street Plaza and the modern flats that sit alongside older, traditional neighbourhoods. Even the Eureka! Museum, a glass-fronted building designed for children, is right next to the historic Halifax Railway Station, with its beautiful stonework and classic architecture. The North Bridge, a key piece of the town's infrastructure, effortlessly connects these different eras, spanning the valley with a graceful curve.

But the views aren't just about the town itself. From the Beacon, you can see far across the Calder Valley. The path that winds down the hillside reveals a rolling landscape of green fields and distant hills, a reminder of the beautiful countryside that surrounds Halifax. The very top of the hill is home to the Beacon itself, a striking metal structure with a path and a bench nearby—the perfect place to sit, breathe, and take it all in.

Standing up there, looking out over the landscape, it’s clear that Halifax is a place where history and modernity live in harmony. It’s a town proud of where it's come from and excited about where it's going.

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The River Thames: From Woolwich Ferry's Perspective

 There's something uniquely captivating about the River Thames, a historic artery that winds its way through the heart of London. And one of the most intriguing ways to experience its dynamic character is from the deck of the Woolwich Ferry. In April 2016, armed with my trusty Nikon d3300, I had the pleasure of capturing a few moments from this vantage point, revealing different facets of the river and its surroundings.

The first view, looking eastward from the ferry terminal, offered a classic London panorama. Under a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds, the river stretched out towards the horizon. The iconic silhouette of the Canary Wharf skyline dominated the distant cityscape, a testament to London's ever-evolving urban landscape. Closer to the shore, the muddy banks at low tide hinted at the river's tidal nature, while a lone vessel navigated the waterways, adding a touch of life to the scene. The low, yellow-tinged wall of the ferry terminal in the foreground served as a constant reminder of our unique position.

Then, as the ferry embarked on its journey, the perspective shifted. Looking eastward from the ferry itself, the glint of sunlight on the water was mesmerizing. The sun, lower in the sky, cast shimmering reflections across the waves, creating a dazzling path of light. The buildings along the river's edge, slightly silhouetted by the brightness, appeared as a continuous urban ribbon, hinting at the bustling life beyond the water's edge. The movement of the ferry created ripples, adding to the dynamic visual of the river.

Finally, a view of the North Shore from the moving ferry presented a different kind of tranquillity. The sun, less direct, allowed for a clearer view of the buildings lining the northern bank. The water here seemed calmer, with broader stretches of deep blue. The presence of other boats, including what appeared to be other ferries or workboats, reinforced the Thames as a working river, constantly in motion. The overall impression was one of vastness and continuity, with the river flowing steadily onward.

These snapshots, taken from the unique vantage point of the Woolwich Ferry, truly capture the essence of the River Thames – a blend of historical grandeur, modern urbanity, natural beauty, and ceaseless activity. It's a journey that offers a fresh perspective on a familiar landmark, and one I highly recommend for anyone looking to see London from a different angle.

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Losing Yourself (and Finding Yourself) in the Magic of Venice

Venice. The name itself conjures up images of gondolas gliding through turquoise canals, ancient palazzos whispering secrets of the past, and lovers sharing stolen kisses under a bridge. And let me tell you, the reality is every bit as magical.

Venice is unlike any other city in the world. Founded on over 100 tiny islands in a lagoon, it's a labyrinth of narrow waterways, charming bridges, and hidden piazzas. Getting lost here isn't just possible; it's practically encouraged. Wandering down a random calle (alleyway) might lead you to a tucked-away trattoria serving the freshest seafood, a hidden courtyard adorned with blooming bougainvillaea, or a local artisan selling hand-crafted masks.

Of course, there are some must-sees:

• Piazza San Marco: The heart of Venice, this stunning square is dominated by the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Take in the view from the top of the Campanile bell tower, or simply soak up the atmosphere while sipping a cappuccino at an iconic cafe.

• Gondola Ride: Yes, it's touristy, but it's also undeniably Venetian. Glide down the Grand Canal, serenaded by a gondolier, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time.

• Island Hopping: Explore the colourful houses of Burano, famous for its lacemaking tradition. Visit Murano, where centuries-old glassblowing techniques are still practiced. And don't miss Torcello, a peaceful island with a charming cathedral and sweeping views of the lagoon.

But Venice is more than just a landmark. It's about the feeling of being surrounded by water, the sound of church bells echoing across the canals, and the delicious aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from local bakeries. It's about getting lost in a maze of streets, then stumbling upon a hidden gem.

Here are some tips for making the most of your Venetian adventure:

• Go early (or late): Venice can get crowded, especially during peak season. Try to visit in the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the throngs of tourists.
• Embrace the walk: The best way to see Venice is on foot. Comfortable shoes are a must!
• Explore beyond the main sights. Venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden corners of this enchanting city.
• Learn a few Italian phrases: A little effort goes a long way. Even a simple "Buongiorno" (good morning) or "Grazie" (thank you) will be appreciated by the locals.
• Savour the food: Venetian cuisine is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, vegetables, and unique regional specialties. Don't miss the chance to try cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a glass of local wine in a bacaro (wine bar).

Venice is a city that will stay with you long after you leave. It's a place that awakens the senses, stirs the imagination, and leaves you feeling like you've walked into a living fairy tale. So, pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to lose yourself (and find yourself) in the canals of Venice.

I was in Venice for 5 days in 2018, between the dates of Monday 29th and Friday 2nd November. I took numerous pictures and I have been uploading them in smaller sets. This is set 1 from Wednesday 31st October 2018, they were taken with a Nikon d3300. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Fondaco dei Tedeschi.

Taken near the Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal in the foreground.

Merceria San Salvador.

The previous 2 pictures were taken from one of the bridges crossing the Rio dei Bareteri Canal.

Public transport Venetian style, one of the cities water buses on The Grand Canal.

Gondola's moored on the Grand Canal.

Church of San Silverstro

The previous three images are of the Rio Marin Canal.

Ponte Degli Scalzi

Crossers The Grand Canal outside Venice's Railway Station.

The Grand Canal from the Ponte Degli Scalzi, the Venice Santa Lucia Railway Station is just visible to the right of the picture, the Big Dome of Venice (Church of San Simeon Piccolo) to the left.

The waterfront along the San Marco Basin, this is known as the Riva degli Schiavoni.

I'm not sure now you'll be able to visit any major city without finding a Golden Arches. 

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Unveiling the Enduring Spirit of Bruges' Belfry

Bruges. The name alone conjures images of cobbled streets, serene canals, and a certain fairy tale charm. And at the heart of this enchanting Belgian city, piercing the sky with its ancient grace, stands a monument that embodies its very soul: The Belfry. More than just a pretty picture (though it excels at that!), this medieval marvel holds centuries of stories within its sturdy stone walls, tales of triumph, tragedy, and unwavering resilience.

Built around 1240, when Bruges was a bustling, vital trading hub of medieval Europe, the Belfry wasn't merely an architectural statement; it was the city's nerve centre. Imagine it: a hub of commerce, a beacon of civic pride, and a silent guardian overlooking the ebb and flow of daily life. Its initial purpose was multifaceted, serving not only as a majestic symbol but also as the repository of the city's most precious documents – the municipal archives. Tragically, these invaluable records were consumed by a devastating fire in 1280, a poignant reminder of the fragility of history.

And this wasn't an isolated incident. The Belfry, it seems, has a dramatic history with fire, suffering damage on at least two other occasions. These fiery trials have left their mark, literally. If you compare its current silhouette to historical depictions, you'll notice it's lower than its original height. The magnificent wooden spires that once crowned the tower, reaching even higher into the heavens, fell victim to these infernos, leaving behind a more stoic, yet equally commanding, presence.

Throughout its long and storied existence, the Belfry has worn many hats. Beyond the archives, it housed the city's treasury, safeguarding its wealth. It also served as a vital observation post, its lofty perch offering strategic views across the cityscape – perhaps watching for approaching threats or simply monitoring the bustling activity below. Interestingly, the Belfry also formally hosted a vibrant market hall, a testament to its integral role in the city's commercial life, with an enclosed courtyard to its rear providing a bustling hub for trade.

For those eager to truly connect with its history and soak in unparalleled vistas, the Belfry offers an unforgettable experience. Be prepared for a journey upwards – a narrow staircase of 366 steps leads to the observation platform. But trust us, the effort is amply rewarded. From a height of approximately 272 feet, the panoramic views of Bruges are simply breath taking, a tapestry of terracotta rooftops, winding canals, and historic squares stretching out beneath you. (Tip for fellow photography enthusiasts: the pictures accompanying this post were captured in November 2015 using a Polaroid IS2132 bridge camera, a testament to the Belfry's enduring photogenic qualities!)

It's no surprise, then, that the Belfry's significance has been officially recognized. Since 1999, it has proudly held the esteemed status of a UNESCO World Heritage site, cementing its place among the planet's most cherished cultural treasures. Its fame, however, isn't limited to historical accolades. Modern audiences will recognize it from its prominent role in the critically acclaimed 2008 film "In Bruges," starring Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson, and Ralph Fiennes. The film beautifully showcased the city's unique atmosphere, with the Belfry often serving as a silent, powerful backdrop to the characters' unfolding drama.

The Belfry of Bruges is more than just a bell tower; it's a living monument to a city's enduring spirit. It stands as a testament to medieval ingenuity, a survivor of trials by fire, and a timeless symbol of Bruges' unique charm. So, the next time you find yourself in this magical city, take a moment to look up, truly look up, at the Belfry. And perhaps, if you're feeling adventurous, climb those 366 steps. You'll not only be rewarded with a spectacular view, but with a deeper appreciation for the rich history and indomitable spirit embodied in this magnificent structure.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The Belfry from the market square.

The courtyard to the rear.

The Belfry from the Historium.

City Hall pictured from the Tower.

The clock mechanism.

The courtyard.

Market Square from the Tower.

View across Bruges.

St Salvator's Cathedral.

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