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Cayman Stingrays

 Scuba, Travel  No Responses »
Jan 312013
 

Stingray City, Cayman Islands.

One of the most popular diving (snorkling) spots in the Caribbean has got to be Stingray City, Grand Cayman.

It may be that stingrays began gathering in the area decades ago when fisherman returned from an excursion, navigated behind a reef into the sound, and cleaned their fish in the calm water of the shallows and sandbar area. The fish guts were thrown overboard and the stingrays eventually congregated to feast on the discarded guts. Soon the stingrays associated the sound of a boat engine with food. As this practice turned into a tradition, divers realized that the stingrays could be fed by hand.

So, nowadays loads of divers and snorklers get the chance to experience these gentle creatures (unless your name is Steve Irwin) and they make for a great photo-opp!

I must say I really enjoyed shooting here, even though I normally am not in favor of feeding fish for photos but it mostly seemed to be harmless for rays and people.

More photos from this trip here!

Canon 5D in a UK-GERMANY housing.
1/200 f/9 ISO125
1x Canon Speedlite 580 EX II (UK-GERMANY housing too).

November 9th 2009

Cayman Aggressor for Duikmagazine

 Publications, Scuba, Travel  No Responses »
Sep 232010
 

Cayman Aggressor for Duikmagazine, pages 1&2

Report on scuba-diving with the Cayman Aggressor in November 2009, published in the Dutch diving publication “Divemagazine”.
A feature about the Aggressor liveaboard in one of the top diving spots in the Caribbean.

Cayman Aggressor for Duikmagazine, pages 3&4

Cayman Aggressor for Duikmagazine, pages 5&6

Cayman Aggressor for Duikmagazine, pages 7&8

Illyria House – Pretoria (South Africa)

 Interior, Publications, Travel  1 Response »
Jan 082009
 

Illyria House for Tulp Magazine, pages 1&2

Illyria House for Tulp Magazine, pages 3&4

Illyria House for Tulp Magazine, page 5

One of the nicest hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of overnighting can be found near the Johannesburg Airport, little over twenty minutes North of the hectic and largest South African city is Pretoria, the legislative Capital. Before hitting that town, famous for its abundant Jacaranda Trees, in a hidden and very nice neighborhood you will find a Villa turned into a hotel for Kings, their website says it all and nothing of it is overstated. What an incredible place!

Click on “full screen” for the high-res slideshow:

A magnificent villa with sweeping views across the treetops of the historical Jacaranda City. Set in tranquil gardens, teeming with birds, it is no wonder that Illyria is often referred to as a “little paradise”.

Upon entering through the wrought iron gates, a fairytale ambience, reflecting the epitome of gracious and romantic living unfolds, complete with white gloved butlers discreetly working their magic to please.

Unrivalled personalized service, exclusivity and luxury are a given at this intimate haven. Fine antiques, 17th century tapestries, soft classical music and exquisite cuisine have contributed to Illyria’s standing as a sought-after oasis of tranquility, refined beauty and charm.

It comes as no surprise that Illyria House has become a destination in its own right, a unique, nostalgic, colonial experience, highly appreciated by the discerning traveler, and the secret retreat of royalty, heads of state and celebrities alike.

Services rendered by your personal butler include organizing historical tours, sports activities, country picnics, individualized shopping outings and transfers to attractions in the city and surrounding areas. Guests may enjoy beauty treatments in the magical wellness spa in the secret garden or in the privacy of their rooms.

Secluded yet centrally located, a stay at Illyria House is ideal in combination with a luxury rail journey, wildlife safari or Indian Ocean island resort, and holds the promise to add an unforgettable authentic experience in colonial African hospitality.