A World To Explore

My heart yearns to explore the world and to experience the vast and vibrant cultures it contains. Here you will find some photos from these travels.

[mathewbeaulieu]

The #laxeywheel, otherwise known of as Lady Isabella, is a huge #victorian era #waterwheel that served as a pump to siphon water from nearby mines once in operation on the #isleofman. With a wheel more than 70 ft in diameter, and the ability to siphon more than 1000 liters of water per minute this machine is a without a doubt a feat of #engineering. A brief walk from the #laxey station on the #electricrailway from Douglas. Well worth the visit @manxnationalheritage! #travel #history #nofilter (at Laxey Wheel)

[mathewbeaulieu]

Legend has it that the #giantscauseway was once a bridge between #northernireland and #scotland. Geologically, the remains of an ancient #volcanic eruption under the ice and sea, the pillars remain. A great way to spend a day off, and a lovely @unescoworldheritage site. In fact, the only #unesco site in Northern #Ireland! (at Giant's Causeway)

[mathewbeaulieu]

If it isn't possible to visit the Agra Fort, a visit to the Red Fort in New Delhi, also a @unescoworldheritage site, is worth the visit. Once within the walls, one can explore the grounds and view the interesting architecture. #delhi #travel (at Red Fort)

[mathewbeaulieu]

Taken from the rooftop of a spice market in Old Delhi. In the upper floors, wholesalers bag and prepare to sell spices in bulk. Below you will see bags of spice to be sold. Many of the vendors wear face masks to avoid the spice dust, which course invokes a sneeze or two. #delhi #whereflavorcomesfrom #market (at Old Delhi Spice Market)

[mathewbeaulieu]

#Amritsar has an eclectic mix of #thenewandtheold. How unique is it to see multiple #banana delivery people like this gentleman competing with other #traffic such as auto rickshaws, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, AND a new double decker hop on hop off (@hop_on_hop_off_amritsar) bus service similar to those in major European cities. #travel #diversity #onthewaytothebluthbananastand (at Amritsar, Punjab)

[mathewbeaulieu]

Sometimes wandering can be lonely. But at the Golden Temple in #Amritsar (proper: Harmandir Sahib), even a wary traveler who clearly does not belong is welcomed with a grin. Built in the 15th century, this is the holiest Sikh place of #worship. #india #experience #mutualrespect (at Harmandir Sahib)

[mathewbeaulieu]

The Agra Fort, built as a palace for the Mughal Dynasty, is partially open to the public. This hole is actually a very ornate drain in the center of a square within the fort. Stone masons carefully carved this and various channels throughout the square to direct all water to exit the common space. #artisticfunctionality @unescoworldheritage #india (at Agra Fort)

[mathewbeaulieu]

Built in memory of a loved one, the #tajmahal is a testament of eternal love that has and will continue to weather through time. The inlaid #precious-stonework is simply phenomenal. Visit at sunrise to avoid some of the crowd, but arrive early enough to get in queue. @unesco #worldheritage #sevenwonders (at Taj Mahal, Agra, India)

[mathewbeaulieu]

Within Cave 1 on #elephantaisland, there stands a massive 7 meter carving of #sadashiva. A brief ferry from the #gatewayofindia and a small hike to reach the caves is well worth the half day visit. The #toytrain is also a charming way to spend a few minutes. Beware the #monkeys; given the opportunity they will try to steal your things. @unesco #cave #india (at Elephanta Caves)

[mathewbeaulieu]

If you have lost something, it is said you can find your lost item and buy it back in the thieves market. Like this car! Only it would seem you would need to buy it back in pieces. This gentleman is working hard to demolish this car to resell the parts. #recycling #thievesmarket #india (at Chor Bazaar)

[mathewbeaulieu]

The #gatewayofindia in #mumbai is a jetty area for various ferries and tours with historic significance. Busy and bustling, it is also a meeting point and a great place to grab a photo or two! #india #architecture (at Gateway of India Mumbai)

[mathewbeaulieu]

The auto #rickshaw with a heart! These efficient vehicles are without a doubt a great way to get around in #India! After the fare is settled, sit back and enjoy the wind in your hair! #transportation #freeairconditioning (at Belgaum)

[mathewbeaulieu]

A beautiful wedding in #India! A reception #ceremony and talented singers and dancers! A dinner to remember. #wonderfulpeople #growingfamily #happyforfriends (at Belgaum)

[mathewbeaulieu]

After two long intercontinental flights, and "short" yet invigorating taxi ride, I arrived at my first stop in #goa #india. This fella was king of the road at 8am when I started to #explore and make my way to the beach. #travel #wanderlust #hotterthanhellateightam (at Goa, India)

[mathewbeaulieu]

These lily pads @kewgardens were at least a meter in diameter - huge! What a lovely grounds to get lost in for a day to explore the worlds largest collection of plants. The only distraction was the flights above from nearby airports that reminded us that our adventure was coming to an end. #gardens #conservation #endoftriprelaxation #travel (at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew)

[mathewbeaulieu]

An @englishheritage site, Kenilworth Castle is neatly restored to allow plenty of space for #exploration, a relaxed #picnic, or a game of catch. Great for families and kids of all ages! #travel #family #daytrip (at Kenilworth Castle)

[mathewbeaulieu]

Just below #nottinghamcastle is what may be the oldest inn in #England! Inside there are many nooks to enjoy a small bite (including a few tables in the chimney!) #pub #oldest #england #travel (at Nottingham, United Kingdom)