Cockfights in Puerto Rico
© Photos: Alvin J. Báez
Based on opposition to gambling or animal cruelty, cockfights and other animal fights have been outlawed in many places. Hence, Puerto Rico is one of the countries in which cock fighting is legal and practiced the most. There are about 115 legal cockfighting centers around the island.
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Bösendorfer Piano Factory
© Potos: Alex Halada
One of the oldest Piano manufacturers worldwide, the Bösendorfer Piano Factory is situated approximately 40 km to the south of Vienna. Known for their distinctive, touching sound, as well as their outstanding quality, the Bösendorfer Pianos display a rich history and tradition.
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Liquid Illumination
H2O-Yoga
© Photos: Harald Slauschek
Chiaradina Cerweny, an austrian Yoga-teacher is creating a liquid illumination by doing H2O-Yoga
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Indonesia
Teluk Cenderawasih National Park
© Photos: Michael Grünwald
The Cenderawasih Bay Marine Nationalpark, formerly named Geelvink Bay, covers the western part of a big bay in the northeast of the indonesian province of West Papua or Papua Barat (bahasa language). It's current name was derived from the Cenderawasih bird, which means "Red bird of paradise". The park was founded in 2002 and shelters many endangered species and features a wide array of corals as well as a healthy population
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Austrian Cats United
© Photos: Stefan Fürtbauer
The association “Austrian Cats United“ hosted the international cat breed show themed “Austrian TICA Season Opening” on May 4th and 5th in Bad Vöslau, Lower Austria. International judges from the USA, UK, Argentina and Austria rated over 100 cats of dozens of breeds
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Vienna
Museum of Art History
© Photos: Stefan Fürtbauer
At the The Museum of Art History also referred to as Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum) in Vienna a gigantic Arts Collection is on exhibit, since more than 250 years, occupying no less than 8700 square meters. The museum primarily consists of the Habsburg collection (paintings and armour) and a vast collection of Italian, Dutch, German and French masterpieces such as Rembrandt and Dürer
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Vienna
Historical Music Instruments
© Photos: Stefan Fürtbauer
The Collection of Historical MusicInstruments is on exhibit in a wing of the Viennese Hofburg Palace and belongs to the Museum of Art History. The museum houses a large collection of renaissance and baroque instruments including a comprehensive range of clavichords and Viennese piano fortes. The lion's share of the inventory
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Austria
Historic border checkpoints about to disappear
© Photos: Felicitas Kruse & Erich Gromek
Five former border crossings and checkpoints in Burgenland/Austria will be dismantled. These crossings points were previously part of the Iron curtain, later they were part of the Schengen border. The Schengen border moved and the checkpoints are not needed anymore. ASAblanca photographer-team Felicitas Kruse & Erich Gromek documented these silent witnesses
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Vienna
Arms and Armor
© Photos: Stefan Fürtbauer
The Arms and Armor Collection in the Hofburg Palace of Vienna is one of the best maintained collections of it's kind within the western world. Like so many other collections and museums, the items were collected by the members of the Habsburg monarchy during a period of time spanning from the 15th to the 20th century
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Historical street race in Italy
The Mille Miglia
© Photos: Wolfgang Simlinger
She was once considered to be one of the toughest street races in the world: The Mille Miglia. A thousand miles, from Brescia to Rome and the same way back; in 1955 Striling Moss managed an average speed of 157,62 km/h. Two years later the race was stopped because of a severe accident and it lasted 20 years before it was revived as the „Mille Miglia Storica“.
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Angkor - Cambodia
© Photos: Nikolas Beaumont
Cambodia is famous for its temples, particularly those in Angkor, and for the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge architecture. But not only. In this country, that is still in the stage of rebuilding, nowadays hospitality and kindness are popular values. ASAblanca Photographer Nikolas Beaumont spent several weeks in Cambodia, arriving in Siem Reap and then traveling to Battambang and Phnom Phen, creating this captivating photo story along the way
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Dogs, dogs, dogs
© Photos: Stefan Fürtbauer
From April 6th to 7th 2013, the international pedigree dog show took place in the Austrian town of Wieselburg. More than 2000 dogs, representing approximately 240 different dog breeds of no less than 23 different nationalities, were presented to the judges and numerous visitors of the cynology show.
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Alex Kanzian, Double Bass Builder
© Photos: Matthias Hombauer
Alex Kanzian is one of the few double bass builders who master this craft to the finest detail. His long path of learning started in the workshop of Rupert Hofer in Graz, subsequently leading him into the luthier school in the German town of Mittenwald. He broadened his horizons in the HTBLA for instrument making in Hallstatt. His trail continued, from Cremona to Genoa
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Zwina
© Photos: Serena de Sanctis
In the city of Er-Rich, situated in the Moroccan part of the Atlas mountain range, time seems to have stopped. The heat and the Ramadan dominate everything this time of year. The streets are empty but for a few work men. They fight against thirst, awaiting the most important moment of the day, the Iftaar; the meal that breaks the daily routine of fasting during the Ramadan. During the day the women, hidden in their homes, prepare
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Air Pollution, Beijing
© Photos: Nicola Longobardi
That the air in Beijing is heavily polluted is common knowledge. But, just recently, Beijing suffered of extremely polluted air. The Air Quality Index (AQI) scale measured an outrageous 755 AQI, higher as ever before. Measurements above 100 are already considered unhealthy for susceptible people. Above 400 is a danger to everybody. ASAblanca photographer Nicola Longobardi resides in Beijing at the time. He documented what impact
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45 Watch Towers surrounding Berlin 1990-1991
© Photos: Erich Gromek
A photo story about the Watch towers, formerly placed at the so called Death Strip that surrounded Berlin. These monumental towers form symbols of the deprivation of liberty. ASAblanca photographer Erich Gromek documented this peace of contemporary history using a Kiev 6x6 camera in 1990 and 1991. The fall of the Berlin wall happened simultaneously
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Laos
© Photos: Nicolas Beaumont
Laos is a relatively unknown small country in Southeast Asia. It is the only landlocked country in this region. Its capital Vientiane was, until a few years ago, barely larger than a village. Today Laos changes from month to month, opening up not only to tourists, but also to Chinese investors. ASAblanca Photographer Nicolas Beaumont traveled the roads of Laos by bus and bike. A long and peaceful journey
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Nairobi, Kenya
"One Third" Photo Exhibition by Klaus Pichler
© Photos: Ric Francis
Documentation of the "One Third" photo exhibition by Austrian photographer Klaus Pichler at the gallery Alliance Francaise in Nairobi (Kenya). The exhibition was commissioned by the United Nation's Environmental Programme (UNEP) and the United Nation's Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO).This exhibition is a project on food
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Pope Benedict XVI - Retirement
© Photos: René van Bakel
Pope Benedict XVI stunned the world by announcing his retirement. Only once before in the history of the catholic church, 800 years ago, a Pope resigned. Since then experts in the entire world state their opinion as to the reason(s) why. Whatever these reasons may be, this is a feat forever to be ingraved in world history. These images portray
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Dino
© Photos: Serena de Sanctis
This is the story of Bernardino de Sanctis, my father.
Bernadino de Sanctis was born in 1938 in Rome. He was the only son of Antonio de Sanctis and Matilda Tosi.
Antonio, a farmer and landowner, wished the best future for his son so he sent Dino in a Catholic school, where, he was convinced, the education would be more appropriate for a rebel child as his son was
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Nice Carnival
Pointes de Vue
© Photos: Chiara Raffo
The Nice Carnival is the main winter event of the French Riviera and it’s one of the largest carnivals in the world, offering a programme of unforgettable entertainment. These giant, colorful parades take place day and night, with entertainment provided by over 1.000 musicians and dancers from across the world. For over 15 days, the city hums to the rhythm of this genuine
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North Korea
A normal Day in Pyongyang
© Photos: Luca Faccio
The groups of German, Chinese and American tourists who occupy the benches at the international airport of Sousan, should not be fooled. Sure, the smile and the souvenir photo with a border guard soldier is an image that, until a few years ago, would have meant immediate banishment for the unwary visitor. But behind this apparent normality hides a country that is still hermetically closed, where the
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Rain Forest Protection
Angels of the Forest
© Photos: Nicola Longobardi
A photo reportage featuring the rangers of the Wildlife Alliance protecting the South West Elephant Corridor (SWEC), one of the last primary rain forests in the world measuring 684,336 hectares. The rangers sail the water of the rivers in small boats. They patrol the jungle
to protect it from poachers, smugglers and arsonists. They are the men of the Wildlife Alliance,
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Vienna under Construction
Urban Reshape
© Photos: Sebastian Reich
In Vienna's 10th district, a whole new city center arises on an area measuring a total of 59 hectare. A modern quarter designed to meet the challenges of the future with apartments, offices, a school campus and shopping centre all being created around the new futuristic railway station. Because of this the ancient neighborhood of Favoriten is changing irrevocably.
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Philippines
Typhoon Pablo Aftermath
© Photos: Nicola Longobardi
Typhoon Pablo was the strongest tropical cyclone to ever hit the southern Philippine island of Mindanao. Striking the island as a Category 5 super typhoon in December 2012, the tropical storm left a trail of devastation, loss and suffering. ASAblanca photographer Nicola Longobardi created this report on the aftermath of the cyclone
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Prostitution in Tel Aviv
Sleeping Beauties
© Photos: Emese Benkö
Prostitution and drug addiction are linked in Israel. Most of the prostitutes (estimations vary between 60 % and 90 %) are also drug addicts, mainly to heroine, which is the most common drug in Israel. Some women become prostitutes only to finance their addiction. It is estimated that 70% of the female prostitutes in Tel Aviv come from the former Soviet countries
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Homo Ludens
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
Man likes to play. The game creates a feeling of tension and joy. It is a source of energy, full of positive emotions. Of all games, betting stands out because it allows the players to dream because through playing they have the opportunity to become rich. However, betting also requires the ability of letting go since we accept the idea of losing everything in a moment's notice. In addition, gambling abolishes social inequalities because chances are the
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Divine Love
Divino Amore
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
Divino Amore is a series of portraits showing the world of “pilgrims” who visit St. Peter’s Basilica every year in Rome. They make the journey out of devotion, curiosity or simple boredom.
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Tschechu Festival in Bhutan
In Honour of Guru Rinpoche
© Photos: Josef Polleross
The old city center of Wangduephodrang in central Bhutan and its adjoining Dzong (monastery)are situated at 1250 meters in altitude on a narrow mountain ridge above the Puna Tsang Chu river. Legend has it that its name has been given by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal who was searching for the best location for a dzong to prevent incursions from invaders form the south. At the chosen spot the Shabdrung encountered
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Pieve de Pitti, Tuscan Vineyard
© Photos: René van Bakel
Wine estate Pieve de Pitti is situated on the crest of a hill in the wine region Colline Pisane not far from the Tuscan town of Terricciola. Its panoramic view is simply fantastic. Featuring 360 degrees of Tuscan landscape. For many years the family only used the villa with its built in chapel as a weekend residence. About a decade ago, neo-winegrower Sergio Gargari decided to turn this country hideout into a real viniculture. Together with his wife Ida and their two children
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Afar People
© Photos: Emmanuel Martin
They have their own language and lead a nomadic life herding goats, sheep and cattle. Their society is organized into clan families and their territory extends over three countries: the Republic of Djibouti, Ethiopia and Eritrea. A vast and barren region.
ASAblanca Photographer Emmanuel Martin encountered them in Djibouti near the Ethiopian border where he managed to create a vivid cultural portrait of them, the Afar people
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Secrets
© Photos: Nadine Poncioni
„Secrets“ is a project of ASAblanca Photographer Nadine Poncioni. The project was inspired by childhood memories growing up in a catholic environment and having to confess sins to a stranger to be forgiven. Nadine Poncioni asked strangers on the streets of London to share a secret. The identity stays preserved.
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Bali in Portraits
© Photos: Karin Lohberger
Men selling beer at the port of Nusa; Fishermen in the twilight on the Balangan Beach; Children in the grass, awaiting a ceremony in the adjacent temple; Long-tailed macaques mirroring human behavior in the monkey forest; devout Hindus at the Melasti ceremony or the evening surfers at Canggu beach - they all shape the face of Bali. And they all feature in this striking Portrait series by
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Tradition at an Austrian Wine Tavern
© Photos: Robert Kalb
The right of winemakers to pour their self produced wine in their own establishment without needing a special license goes back to Emperor Joseph II in 1784. Originally only allowed to serve new wine and an accompanying cold dish, today these traditional wine farms are being operated in variable ways. A typical wine lodge that kept much of its original character is the Wölfl Wine Tavern in Großklein (Biglittle) in the Austrian province
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Paris Paradise
© Photos: Talso Buccellati
Native Italian Talos Buccellati moved to Paris at the beginning of this year. In one of his personal projects he has turned his attention to the architecture of his newly adopted home city. Through his masterful play with the blur and sharpness of his tilt and shift lens, Talos manages to convey the atmosphere instantaneously. His atmosphere; surprising, bright and unexpected.
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Falkenstein
Where wine lives
© Photos: Robert Kalb
In the northern part of the Austrian Wine Quarter (Region in Lower Austria) the ruins of Falkenstein Castle stand out from the hilly vineyards. Once an important strategic base guarded by knights, nowadays tourists enjoy the panoramic view on South Moravia from this same vantage point. Well known as a wine-growers venue already in the middle ages, romantic Falkenstein never
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French Foreign Legion, 13e DBLE
© Photos: Emmanuel Martin
Over a period of one month, French ASAblanca photographer Emmanuel Martin accompanied the 13th Half Brigade (13e DBLE) of the legendary Legion Étrangère (French Foreign Legion) in Djibouti, East Africa. Martin succeeded to translate the tough men's emotions and their extremely hard environment into an extraordinary atmospheric essay
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Fashion - Asil du Luxe
© Photos: Martin Siebenbrunner
In the madhouse of luxury the models wear straitjackets and display themselves in a dark atmosphere. That does not stop them to present themselves in exclusive dresses, wearing luxurious shoes, handbags and jewelry. ASAblanca Photographer Martin Siebenbrunner chose the Theater Backdrop of the play "Alma Mahler" by Paulus Manker as his a location for this shoot.
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Berlin
© Photos: Josef Polleross
Known as the Gateway between East and West and long divided by the iron curtain, the illustrious capital of Germany obviously doesn't need an introduction. Who doesn't know landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, the Berlin Wall, the Olympic Stadium, the Holocaust memorial or the Berlin Cathedral? ASAblanca photographer Josef Polleross, renowned for his captivating essays in the New York Times, went out there and
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Death and the Girl
© Photos: Martin Siebenbrunner
In one of his latest photographic projects ASAblanca photographer Martin Siebenbrunner stages "Death and the Girl". According to the ancient saga, Death occurs as the seducer or even lover of the young girl.
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Vorsäß Schönenbach, Bregenzerwald
© Photos: Robert Kalb
The village of Schönenbach is situated in the Bregenzerwald (the forest of Bregenz) at an altitude of approximately1000m. UNESCO declared the high located settlement to be Immaterial Cultural Heritage because of its traditional agricultural transhumance (seasonal migration between the valley and high pastures). Due to snow conditions, the area is only habitable during Summer
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Viennese Coffee Specilaities
© Photos: Klaus Titzer
Whether we are talking about a “Small Brown One”, a “Big Mocha”, Coffee Grog, Coffee Advokat, Coffee Obermayer or the famous coffee Maria Theresia, the list of Viennese Coffee specialties is long. ASAblanca photographer Klaus Titzer has put together a smorgasbord of the energizing brews.
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Volterra's Prison Restaurant
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
A 15th century fortress that serves as a high-security prison normally would not be the first location you would choose to go dining. The Tuscan village of Volterra in Italy however runs a special rehabilitation project under the devoted guidance of prison warden Mariagrazia Gianpiccolo. Every month the doors are opened to public for an haute-cuisine dinner
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L´Hôtel de Ville
Generational succession
© Photos: Manfred Klimek
This year, Swiss Star Chef Philippe Rochat has passed on the leadership of the 3 star (Michelin guide) restaurant kitchen to his sous-chef Benoît Violier. The restaurant is currently being renovated and will reopen in September. What will remain the same however is that only the best products will end up on the kitchen table as well as the fact that their original aromas will be preserved
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Saxon churches
© Photos: Josef Polleross
In southern Carpathia time seems to have come to a halt. Contemplative villages and friendly people radiating a unique, unspoiled originality, dominate the image. Very impressive: more than 500 castle and village churches built by the Transylvanian Saxons. Nowadays almost all Saxons are gone and those still living there have a hard time keeping their churches in shape
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Badia di Morrona
Noble wine and old secrets
© Photos: René van Bakel
At the 11th century, former Benedictine Monastery overlooking the town of Terriciola in the wine region Colline Pisane, everything is concentrated on the lovingly produced wine bearing the same name: Badia di Morrona. For decades at length, the Genovese earl family of Gaslini Alberti has been running an impressive winery here. But
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Sommer in Versailles
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
From Spring to Autumn water, music and light form the most impressive elements in the gardens of the palace of Versailles. Every Saturday the evening in the Mirror Hall starts with performances of customized artists and musicians, allegorizing a French style ball. After dark the gardens transform and invite for a tour into a world of baroque music, coloring lights and 'dancing' water fountains. ASAblanca photographer Talos Buccellati recorded the start of the summer season.
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Lucky Pigs
"Species appropriate Breeding" XXL
© Photos: René van Bakel
A stable you won't find on the Labonca organic farm. To keep the pigs as much as possible according to their primary instincts, that is the primary goal on austria's largest field grown pig farm. The keyword "species appropriate breeding" gets a whole new meaning here. That was the main reason why farmer Norbert Hackl
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Roberto Trebino
Tradition since 1824
© Photos: Tabus
The traditional company of the Trebino family was founded in 1824. They are worldwide renowned watchmakers and specialists in producing clocks for bell towers. They always kept the craft of making of the giant clocks in their own hands. They use earthen molds and a wooden stove to produce their pieces of art. These symbols of precision, quality and prestige find their way not only into the
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Camalenque, Afro-Peruvian Pallbearers
© Photos: Ric Francis
Camalenque (a vocational identity) are Afro-Peruvian men who are highly sought to carry coffins at the most upscale funerals in Peru. Clad in tuxedos and white gloves they are hired under the belief that their skin-color lends an aura of elegance to the job. In Peru, where racism against blacks and indigenous natives is strong, dark skin is not only used to exclude but to symbolize servitude. In May 2010 Peru's Ministry of Culture denounced
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Gumball machines
Nostalgic Memories
© Photos: Klaus Titzer
Who doesn’t know them? At the sight of a gumball machine, memories of our childhood come to live. Formerly mounted on almost every other street corner, they have become a rarity nowadays. Yet they still exist. Not only as collectibles in private households but also still mounted onto some corner of a house. ASAblanca Photographer Klaus Titzer went out to look for these relics of a past generation.
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Architecture by Adsy Bernart
© Photos: Adsy Bernart
In his architectural photography, Adsy Bernart combines a unique point of view with optimum quality. The Viennese master photographer knows how to capture the highlights of architecture and to achieve perfection to the finest detail.
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Palazzi dei Rolli, Genoa
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
More than 100 palaces of the noble families of Genoa we find along the Strade Nuove in the historic centre of Genoa. They date from the late 16th and early 17th centuries when the Republic of Genoa was at the height of its financial and seafaring power. The Palazzi dei Rolli - each one with its own architectural solution and individual character - were part of an official list (the Rolli) and randomly chosen to host visitors of
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Emilio Epstein
Austrian Champion in Wakeboarding 2012
© Photos: René van Bakel
Wakeboarding is a new and trendy sport that first surfaced during the early 90’s in the USA. At a speed of about 30 km/h, the athletes use the waves generated by the motor boat that tows them as a kicker (jump) for their figures. Originally born out of the boredom of surfers who were not patient enough to wait for the right wave, wakeboarding meanwhile advanced to be a really trendy sport drawing many youths into its spell. As per
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Moonlit Market
Chandni Chowk, India
© Photos: Mahavir Singh Bisht
Chandni chowk or moonlit market is located in the capital of India, New Delhi. Designed by Shah Jahan and his daughter Jahanara Begum in 17the century Chandni Chowk seems to emerge from a fairy tale book. There are narrow alleys and withering buildings and in those withering buildings live courageous people; both young and old folks and each of them has a story to tell. The aged tinted
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The Wild Image Project
© Photos & Text: Daniel Fox
A few years ago, the Canadian Daniel Fox launched his "Wild Image Project". "Daniel about his motives:" "Ever since I was a young boy, I found my inspiration and comfort in nature. It taught me about life, and death, about change and evolution, about challenges and perseverance. Most importantly, it taught me about perspective and balance, about being humble and spiritual
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Peru - Mother's Day at the cemetery
© Photos: Ric Francis
In Peru Motherʼs Day is celebrated throughout the country on the second Sunday of each May. Peruvian mothers are honored with family meals, parties and showered with gifts. There is a particularly popular location where Peruvians gather to socialize, over food and drinks, in honor of their mothers: the cemetery. Thousands gather at cemeteries in celebration
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WORK AND PLAY
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
WORK AND PLAY is a project by ASAblanca photographer Talos Buccellati. The Paris based Italian photographer initiated it between the end of the Beijing Olympic Games and the peak time of the economic crisis in the UK (2009). This project, established with a series of illustrative images aims to express the climate of depression during the economic crisis in the “city of brokers”
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ATMs in New York City
© Photos: Keith Goldstein
In the city of New York one rarely has to travel more than 2, 3 blocks to find an ATM. These cash dispensers are located almost in any corner. In small shops, fast-food restaurants or hotel lobbies. These machines are as diverse as the locations you find them at. ASAblanca photographer Keith Goldstein made this landmark of global economy into the central theme of this extraordinary image collection
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Victory Celebration Francois Hollande
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
Socialist Francois Hollande was elected president of France on Mai 06th, 2012, by defeating incumbent Nicolas Sarkozy, in a vote that has wide implications for the eurozone. Talos Buccellati created this feature exclusively for ASAblanca. In this photographic essay, Talos depicts people celebrating on Place de la Bastille in Paris.
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An italian summer
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
When temperatures rise the Italians go to the beach. They love it - perhaps even more than the average tourist - to go sunbathing, to show themselves, meeting and chatting with friends and last but not least getting themselves a nice tan. Italians know how to savor the good life. With this photographic essay ASAblanca photographer and Italian by birth Talos Buccellati depicts the Italian Dolce Vita, a way of life, on the beach
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Metropolis at the Bosporus
Istanbul
© Photos: Josef Polleross
Mosques and bazars, western lifestyle and Anatolian tradition. This is what the city of Istanbul, spread over 1800 km2 on both sides of the river Bosporus, has on offer. Nowhere else one can observe this Interaction between tradition and modern life better than here. Whether through its people, architecture or infrastructure; here these opposites in harmony formed
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Dog's Portraits
International Fidelity Prize for Dogs
© Photos: Talos Buccellati
This event, "the International Fidelity Prize for dogs", is organized every year on August 16, during the paternal feast, in San Rocco di Camogli (Italy, not far from 5 Terre) and gives recognition to dogs known for their loyalty.
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Schönbrunn Palace
Great Gallery
© Photos: Georges Schneider
The first overall refurbishment of the largest state room at Schönbrunn Palace - the Great Gallery - lasted for two years. Now it´s finised. The overall aim of the project was to restore the original appearance of the room as authentically as possible. It has taken 40,000 hours of painstaking manual work
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Yellowstone National Park
© Photos: Mike Lindtner
The forces of nature are impressive in the world’s oldest national park. He is best known for its geothermal sources such as geysers and mud pots, and for its wild animals like bison, grizzly bears and wolves. The Yellowstone National Park is the heart of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem. In 1978 the National Park was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Wooden Churches in Romania
© Photos: Emese Benko
Wooden Churches with paintings in the South of Transilvania and Northern Oltenia, Romania 2008 - by Emese Benko.
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Chinatown, New York City
© Photos: Keith Goldstein
Manhattan's famous Chinatown is a lively neighborhood, full of good values in restaurants and food shopping. The first Chinese person credited as having permanently immigrated there was Ah Ken, a Cantonese businessman, who eventually founded a successful cigar store on Park Row in 1858. Nowadays the estimated number of residents differs from around 50 000 to 100 000 since precise counts are hardly possible in China town due to illegal immigration as well as language
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Handmade
Hofbackstube Schönbrunn Castle
© Photos: Josef Polleross
There is a "show backing" at the imperial bakery in Schönbrunn Palace. You can experience it live when the original hand-drawn Viennese apple strudel is cooked according to a 300 year old recipe. The "strudel show" is very popular. An old Viennese delicacy with a long tradition
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Along the river Elbe
Dresden
© Photos: Franz Soukup
the Saxon State capital has been through a lot in its history. Under Augustus the strong one, the city on the Elbe gained cultural significance, 1945 large-scale destruction by American and British bombs. This was followed by the GDR era, change and reconstruction. The wounds of the city are largely healed now. Its rich culture, warm people and gorgeous location
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Pisa
1992-2011: Leaning tower, stabilsation works
© Photos: Fabio Muzzi
1992-2011: Twenty years of stabilization and restoration works of the leaning tower of Pisa. For many years of this period the campanile was closed for tourists for security reasons. During the first couple of years rings of steel were being attached as well as bars of lead, as counterbalance, to protect the tower from sinking in any further. In addition it took many years before the best restoration method was agreed upon
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Addis Ababa, Increase in Prosperity
© Photos: Jan Gott
With this reportage on Addis Ababa photographer Jan Gott shows a side of Ethiopia that is not so well known to the main public. In the capital of the oldest, still existing country of the world, a slight economical recovery is perceivable. The days that just poverty defined the face of the city are long gone
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Easter
Gesù Morto, Seravezza
© Photos: René van Bakel
The celebration of Gesù Morto is an ancient religious tradition observed by Christians who remember the crucifixion and the death of Jesus Christ. The tradition of the Gesù Morto Procession in Seravezza dates back to around 1650. Once every three years on Good Friday, Seravezza is illuminated by thousands of oil lamps
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Cucina Italiana
About cooking and "la Dolce Vita"
© Photos: René van Bakel
It is said that simplicity is characteristic for the Italian Cuisine. In a way this is true, provided that the best fresh ingredients are used to create its delicious dishes. Hence what you cannot find in a cook book and what is hard to replace at home, is the love and pride Italians take in preparing food, not to mention how exited they can get when simply discussing recipes. And then we did not
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Market in Ghardaia, Algeria
© Photos: René van Bakel
Ghardaia, oasis town in the north-central Algeria, a major trading center and also the center of the Mozabiten, a devout Ibadite community of Berbers who speak their own language and maintain a close relationship with the community. The market of Ghardaia, center for the date-, carpet- and blanket production as well as a meeting place for the community.
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Cappadocia
© Photos: Josef Polleross
The UNESCO world cultural and natural heritage of Goreme-Cappadocia is located in the Centre of a region that used to have intense volcanic activity that significantly shaped its present landscape. Anatolia was originally defined by great Lake and tropical swamp landscape. When the Taurus Mountains
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Run on the White House
© Photos: Georges Schneider
This year in the USA the presidential elections will be held on November 6th. ASAblanca photographer George Schneider presents his views of the white house
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Phuket Vegetarian Festival
© Photos: Josef Polleross
The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is an annual religious celebration, held during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar. The Festival is celebrated mainly by people of chinese ancestry. In this period they strictly observe a 10-day vegetarian or vegan diet for purposes of spiritual cleansing and merit-making. This is accompanied by sacred rituals
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From Dürnstein to Weißenkirchen
A bicycle tour exploring Austria’s Wachau
© Photos: Josef Polleross
The Wachau region is situated in the Danube valley between the Austrian towns of Melk and Krems (Lower Austria). The region is famous for its landscape with rolling hills resembling those in Tuscany. Hence, like its Italian equivalent the Wachau is famous for its wines, historical ruins, the Monastary in Melk and castles like the one in Dürnstein overlooking the river Danube. The region is a popular destination for cyclists, seeking to enjoy the stunning landscape or pausing at one of the many inviting wine taverns along the way.
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Bangkok in Panorama
© Photos: Josef Polleross
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand with around 12 million people (officially only 9,100,000) has grown to be one of the leading cities in Southeast Asia. It acquired the reputation of being dynamic, influential and independent when functioning as an impartial zone between both the British and French empire. At present Bangkok has evolved to an Alpha global city status due
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Seychelles
Tropical Bird Watching
© Photos: René van Bakel
Millions of birds populate the islands of the Seychelles. No less than 24 different species alone choose to locate their habitat on the enchanting isle of Bird Island. Adphotum Agency presents to you some of the most prominent species as well as some of the highly endangered ones.
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Wolf Science Center in Ernstbrunn
© Photos: René van Bakel
The Ernstbrunn Wolf Science Center near Vienna is dedicated to study the similarities between wolves, dogs and mankind. Professor Kurt Kotrschal (Austrian's best scientist of 2010) and his team conduct research into the cognitive and cooperative abilities of wolves and dogs. Visitors are welcome!
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Wood Quarter
Natural Beauties of Life
© Photos: René van Bakel
Foray through the all natural beauty of the Austrian Wood Quarter which got its fame mainly through its mystical atmosphere. Giant wavering rocks, seemingly dropped at random in the landscape, add to that. It was here that in times before time, Europe’s druids met for ancient rituals in celebration of the natural elements.
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Vienna
(In)sights of Austria's capital
© Photos: René van Bakel
Walkabout amongst the famous and lesser known delights of the Metropolis of Vienna. Tourist landmarks like the Ferris Wheel, the Spanish Riding School, the Saint Charles Church or the Museum Quarter belong to Vienna just as much as the immigrants on a bench in the 16th district, a little old wine pub at the viennese Gürtel (belt) street or a council estate in the 15th district.
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Trendy again
Traditional Austrian Cookies
© Photos: René van Bakel
Home baking is trendy again! Cookies, pastry and comfit. This collection sprouted from both old and new recipies produced by countrywomen throughout Austria. Creative and traditional, these refined delicacies are a warranted treat. Not only at christmas.
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Carnival in Viareggio
Corso Mascherato
© Photos: René van Bakel
Viareggio's "Corso Mascherato" is one of the biggest Carnival parades in the world. The Gigantic Masked Parade lures tourists from all over into the Tuscan beach town. The Carnival itself has a long tradition dating as far back as 1873. The spectacle includes enormous chariots which carry figures as high as a four floor apartment building. Many of the artistic marvels are satiric
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Hurricane Paula Storm Damage
© Photos: René van Bakel
On the night of January the 26th, 2008 hurricane ‘Paula’ struck Austria and left a trail of destruction in her wake. The damage to the forest industry was one of the heaviest since 1945. The estimated overall loss is believed to be around 6.2 million cubic meters of destroyed forest. The province of Styria was struck the heaviest accounting for almost 4 million cubic meters of wood forest
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24-hour Oldtimer Tractor Race
© Photos: René van Bakel
Situated in the northern part of the Austrian Wood Quarter, TOC Reingers once a year organises a remarkable three day motor sports event. On a 5.5 km long circuit, 90 totally committed teams and their old timer tractors throw themselves into battle for victory in a gruelling 24 hour race. An extraordinary event, drawing not just tractor fans
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Fashion - Persephone´s Return from the Underworld
© Photos: René van Bakel
At the end of the wintertime Persephone returns from the underworld. Nature is flourishing again. It´s getting summer! Therfore the goddess of fertileness and the underworld needs the perfect clothes. To be sure, she´s trying different outfits - of course, only from the best designers. FREE PRODUCTION; Photography: René van Bakel, Set Styling, Makeup-Artist: Monika Cetin.
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Traditional Olive pressing with millstones
Frantoio La Casa Bianca
© Photos: René van Bakel
At "Frantoio La Casa Bianca", a little olive press closely situated above the Italian town of Pietrasanta, olive oil is pressed in the traditional way using millstones. Apart from their own produce, they also press the harvested olives of numerous other olive growers of the neighbourhood.
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A Legend's History
Mercedes Benz Museum
© Photos: René van Bakel
1.500 exhibits on 16.500 m² - that is what you will find at the Mercedes Benz Museum in Stuttgart. A journey through time from the first vintage automobiles and old lorry trucks to the Formula 1 machines of today. One can also come face to face with the machines driven by such world champions such as ‘the Maestro’ J. M. Fangio, M. Hakkinen
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Apassionata
THE Horse Show
© Photos: René van Bakel
Appasionata, the Europe wide organized horses show, draws an audience of approximately 600 000 horse afficionados on a yearly basis. A great show where all kinds of horse breeds and riding styles, combined with beatiful compositions of light, acrobatic stunts, music and dance form an unforgettable experience
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Seychelles
Beach ride on Mahé
© Photos: René van Bakel
The scenery alone is like a dream. If you are allowed to ride here undisturbed into the sunset and - it gets even better - on an Arabian horse, then you are nearing perfection. At Barbarons Beach on Mahé dreams do come true. Here the heart starts beating faster and you don't have to be a horse lover for that
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Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna
© Photos: René van Bakel
Probably the most popular of landmarks in Vienna is the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. The imperial palace complex, which also comprises an extensive park, is a main attraction not only for international visitors but also amongst the Austrians themselves. In the second half of 1996 the palace and its park were declared a world heritage site by UNESCO.
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Gladiators and roman cohorts in Jerash
© Photos: René van Bakel
The Gladiators perform a bitter fight on the historical compound of the Roman Hippodrome in Jerash. Trained by two renowned English stuntmen, Mark Griffin and Wayne de Strete it feels like a flashback from the scenes of Ben Hur and Gladiator. Add to this the demonstration of tactics employed by a Roman Cohort as well as a breathtaking Chariot Race and the visitor is presented with a contemporary
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London
Time tales along the Thames
© Photos: René van Bakel
Time plays an important role in Britain’s Capital. For starters there is Big Ben and on the other side of the River Thames stands the melting clock of Salvador Dali with both the Millennium Wheel and the Millennium Footbridge not far off. But don't forget about the Greenwich Royal Observatory, where GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) or Zulu time officially commences and provides Europe
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Gerold Dautzenberg
Western Riding at the highest level
© Photos: René van Bakel
One of Austria’s most successful western riders turned 70 on January 10th, 2009. Gerold Dautzenberg discovered his passion for western riding relatively late – however he was born to it. With some 36 European Champion titles and 2 vice world champion titles under his belt he truly is a champion of champions. On his Long View Ranch he now devotes himself totally to his horses. Let’s ride!
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Etruscopolis
Omero Bordo, the last Etruscan?
© Photos: René van Bakel
Visiting the “Etruscopolis”, an underground museum and replica of an Etruscan city just outside Tarquinia, is the ultimate opportunity to get acquainted with daily life in ancient Etruria. The exhibitions and collections of artefacts provide a rare glimpse into this amazing culture. There are sanctuaries, dwellings, scenes showing everyday life, the preparations for worshipping the dead and of course the
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