Wanderlust in Focus - Newsletter - 17 January 2025
Wanderlust in Focus
Newsletter | 17 January 2025
🎉 Happy 2025! 🎉
As the new year begins, I wanted to take a moment to share some exciting updates and reflections from my recent adventure in South America. During my travels, I've been re-evaluating my goals and making plans for the future. One of the key focuses for this year is revamping my gallery sites, starting with the stunning city of Amritsar!
To dedicate more time to these updates and to process the incredible photos from my trip, I'll be slowing down the pace of new blog posts to one every two weeks. This will also allow me to work on translating past blog posts into German and ensuring they're accessible to a wider audience.
In this newsletter, you'll find a detailed review of my journey through South America, filled with highlights and stories from my time spent exploring this vibrant continent. Plus, don't forget to join our next photowalk on 1 March at Caprichio Park in Madrid, where we'll capture the beauty of the park together!
Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. Here's to an inspiring and adventurous 2025!
Blog | Travel Review | 17 January 2025
South American Adventure: Exploring the Rich Cultures of Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile
Embarking on my first adventure to South America, I found myself exploring the vibrant corners of Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile—the trip of a lifetime spread over three incredible destinations.
I started in São Paulo, Brazil, a bustling metropolis teeming with life and energy. From the get-go, I heeded my Brazilian friend's advice and used Uber to get around. While the metro is safe, walking or taking the bus felt a bit uneasy. Even though it was summer, it turned out to be a season of rain all over the continent, especially on the Atlantic side in Brazil and Uruguay. São Paulo greeted me with persistent showers, yet the city's charm remained undiminished. I dove into the peaceful calm of Mosteiro de São Bento (Saint Benedict's Monastery), where the monastery's historic ambiance was a perfect escape from the city's chaos. The bustling Mercado Municipal Paulistano (Municipal Market of São Paulo) was a feast for the senses, with its vibrant displays of exotic fruits and local delicacies tantalizing my taste buds. And then there was Pinacoteca de São Paulo (São Paulo Museum of Art)—this museum was a treasure trove of Brazilian art, offering a fascinating journey through the nation's cultural history.
Next, I flew directly from São Paulo to Punta del Este in Uruguay, a paradise for beach lovers. Meeting up with friends from Madrid, including a local native who became our tour guide, made the experience even more special. Punta del Este's beaches, some of the finest I've ever seen, provided the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure. We explored iconic spots like Los Dedos de Punta del Este (The Fingers of Punta del Este) and the captivating Museo Casapueblo (Casapueblo Museum), each enriching our understanding of the area. In Uruguay, I also discovered a traveler’s delight—discounts when paying with foreign credit cards, a welcome relief in what turned out to be the priciest country on my tour. For New Year's, we joined my friend's family in Montevideo, a city brimming with celebration. The streets echoed with festivities, delicious food, and lively Spanish conversations. Before diving into the New Year's celebrations, we made time to explore Montevideo's main sights. We marvelled at the storied Estadio Centenario (Centenario Stadium), soon to host World Cup matches in 2030, admired the grandeur of Palacio Legislativo (Legislative Palace), and wandered through the charming Ciudad Vieja (Old Town), each with its own unique tale to tell.
From Uruguay, I travelled to Santiago de Chile—the city that left me utterly astonished. Santiago is a place of wonder, with endless attractions and hidden gems. I walked more here than any other city on my trip, uncovering the rich tapestry of its streets. The Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Museum of Fine Arts) boasted an impressive collection of art, while the views from Cerro Santa Lucía (Santa Lucía Hill) were simply breathtaking. Barrio Italia, with its eclectic mix of artisan workshops and vibrant street life, became an instant favourite. Santiago had a way of blending the old with the new, making each moment spent there unforgettable.
My journey ended with a trip to Rio de Janeiro, a city where every corner buzzes with life. Praia de Copacabana (Copacabana Beach) offered a final opportunity to bask in the sun and surf. But it was the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura (Royal Portuguese Reading Room) that truly captivated me—this stunning library was like stepping into another world. And of course, no trip to Rio would be complete without visiting Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer). The wait times for the train to Christ the Redeemer and the cable car to Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) were insane, up to two hours even when arriving early, but the views from the top were worth every second. Pro tip: going with an organized tour can save you a lot of waiting time!
Reflecting on this journey, it's clear that this was a trip to remember. Each country, each city, left an indelible mark on my heart. From the vibrant cultural scenes to the warm hospitality, South America has a special magic that calls to be explored. Santiago and Rio de Janeiro, in particular, still have so much more to uncover—I can't wait to return and dive deeper into their wonders. Until then, these memories will shine brightly, a reminder of the power and joy of travel.
Blog | Travel Planning | 17 January 2025
Unlocking the Treasures of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire - Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest Itinerary
Experience the grandeur of the Austro-Hungarian Empire through a journey from Vienna via Bratislava to Budapest. This seamless travel itinerary will guide you through the rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmospheres of these three extraordinary cities, ensuring an unforgettable adventure. If you have more time ... READ MORE
Photo Gallery | Amritsar | 15 January 2025
Featured Photo Gallery – Amritsar, India - The Golden City
Amritsar, India, often called "The Golden City," is a place where spirituality and history unite in a mesmerising display of culture and tradition. Home to the iconic Golden Temple, Amritsar offers a profound sense of serenity and devotion. Beyond its spiritual allure, the city captivates visitors with its bustling bazaars, delicious Punjabi cuisine, and rich historical sites. A visit to Amritsar ... READ MORE
Shop | Picfair | 17 January 2025
Explore the world through my lens at my Picfair shop, where you’ll find a curated collection of my favorite travel photography. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, each image captures the essence of a destination and the stories that unfold there. Whether you're looking to bring a piece of your favorite place into your home or simply love the art of travel photography, there’s something here for every wanderer at heart. Feel free to browse and discover your next favorite print!
Featured Photo: Beach with chairs and palm in Santa Monica, CA
I've been to the USA so many times, but most of the times I stay at the East Coast. In 2013 I wandered off to the West Coast and visited Los Angeles. It was a trip I remember vividly, with the beaches, the famous Walk of Fame. It was actually … READ MORE
Member Only | Events | January 2025
Upcoming events - Exclusive Events for Members Only
Get ready for special travel-themed events designed to inspire your next adventure! From virtual meet-ups to photo challenges and destination workshops, these events are created with you in mind. Want to join the fun? It’s easy! All you need to do is become a member. Not sure how? Feel free to reach out via the contact form, and I'll be happy to guide you through the process. Let’s connect, share stories, and fuel our passion for travel together!
Here the upcoming events:
1 March 2025 – Photowalk Caprichio Park Madrid
More details you find in the Community area.
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