10-OCT-1998
Yemen, Sana’a Market, October 1998
The central market of Sana’a, near Baba-al-Yaman the main door of the old city, reaches peak activity early in the morning. The incomprehensible calls shouted aloud mingle with bartering discussions and the blaring music, present in most of the tents. The bustle never stops and the real show is to be in the right spot, just watching.
18-OCT-1998
Yemen, Al-Jawf, October 1998
Al-Jawf area is known by the typical architecture of its striped houses and for being the domain of warring tribes still not used to visitors and still keeping armed guards at each village entrance. We persuaded our driver to stop the car. As soon as I approached the house with my camera the girl that had drawn my attention had disappeared, only to return with her schoolbook in her hands and agree on being photographed from behind.
14-MAY-1999
Iran, Ganjnamé, May 1999
Contrary to my expectations I found a friendly people, curious about other cultures and enjoying being with foreigners. Near the small city of Ganjna there are some ancient inscriptions in three languages: ancient Persian, Elamite and New Babylonian engraved on a rock in Darius I era. Right next to it is an irresistible waterfall where I had to take a photo. The female students were completely at ease with my presence.
21-MAY-1999
Iran, Esfahan, May 1999
The painter was so deeply involved in capturing all the details the Masjed-é-Eman’s interior that he never noticed me. This mosque is one of the highlights of Iranian religious architecture, completely covered, inside and outside, by light blue mosaics, whose hues change according to the light incidence. It’s a must to visit at different hours of the day.
06-DEC-1999
Myamnar, Thanboddhay Paya, December 1999
After climbing to the top of the temple I enjoyed myself watching the flow of people below. This group of young monks decided to rejoin me at the top of the spire. The steps were high and narrow and their arms seemed to dance while helping to climb. Their laughter filled the air with joy.
17-DEC-1999
Myamnar, Mingun, December 1999
The Hsinbyume temple (1816) was built in memory of King Bagyidaw’s wife. The seven round balconies surrounding the stupa represent the seven mountain ranges around Mt. Meru. The temple was built according to the Buddhist concept of the cosmos. The setting breathes tranquility. In the background a cow feeds on the grass. The two girls chatting didn’t notice my arrival. When they did, I immediately had company at the temple. In the end a small tip for the unrequested guided tour. All of us try to get by as best as we can…
04-MAR-2010
Costa Rica, La Fortuna waterfall, March 2001
Going down to the base of the falls proved to be more dangerous than difficult. The path was winding and steep, the ground, wet and slippery, didn’t help and neither did the mosquitoes and the heath. Down below, the water spray cooled the atmosphere but didn’t spare my cameras. I stepped aside and then saw her hiding behind a rock; a natural shelter from the water downpour. She was trying to warm herself in the sun and maybe tan her pale skin, after diving in the cold waters.
16-MAR-2001
Costa Rica, Ferry between Puntarenas and Nicoya Peninsula, March 2001
At the beginning of the 90 minute crossing I was lost in thoughts, admiring the view. The indolent rhythm of music slowly intruded, perfectly tuned to the ship’s soft sway. Passengers started gathering to hear the music of what I thought to be an occasional performer. Popular songs were known by everybody and the atmosphere became more and more lively. Shortly before landing the not so occasional performer’s hat was passed around so that anyone would be able to testify to its enjoyment. The payment request didn’t spoil the atmosphere.
05-OCT-2001
Tunisia, Ksar Ouled Soltane, October 2001
The ksour are barns. They usually are built in remote locations, with a single entrance and fortified to avoid enemy pillage. Ouled Soltane Ksar is one of the biggest with more than 400 gorfas or storage cells spread over several floors. Leaving, we found this group of elders enjoying themselves playing this traditional game with two different kinds of colored pebbles.
12-OCT-2001
Tunisia, Tamerza, October 2001
It was a festive day. Ramadan had lasted a whole month, the daily fasting was over. Right next to me the family men were skinning a freshly slaughtered goat. This woman had to attend to the meal preparations, to the essences burning in the clay pot, spreading its fragrances in the air and to the children playing under her supervision.
15-NOV-2001
India, Devli, Rajahastan, November 2001
This was an organized tour. “Unusual Rajahastan” program proposed to show some of the lesser known places and overnight stay in maharajah and rajahs palaces from the less important states/regions. In the small town of Devli, close to Bundi, these three women take care of one of the age-old tasks in India: to collect wood for the fire.
24-NOV-2001
India, Ranakpur, Rajahstan, November 2001
At the end of the day a cool breeze blows and the men, only the men, line up near the houses. The brightly colored turbans “called” me. I approached this man with an imposing mustache who exuded authority. After exchanging glances, with a slight nod he allowed me to take his photo. Afterward, a mutual smile sealed our complicity.