Not sure how many gadling readers out there are outdoor/wildlife photo fans, but I’m going to throw this one out there anyway. Frans Lanting is one of the world’s foremost wildlife photographers, so much so that it is extremely likely you’ve seen one of his photos at some time or another. He even his his own Wiki entry. You can go and visit his site here to see the wide array of shots he’s published over the years, but suffice it to say he’s shot on every continent from Antarctica to Africa. He’s also shot little micro-animals like diatoms as well as large big-eared animals like elephants. Oh yes, Lanting loves animals. He loves them so much, in fact ,that he’s got a new book and exhibit out showing off some of his best work. To get a feel for both the photos and what the exhibit offers (the actual exhibit appears to be in the Netherlands, so unless you’re Dutch….or visiting…well, you probably won’t catch it.. BUT you MUST check out this Web site, which does a wonderful job showing off his photos on the Web. And the book, well that might make a very fine gift.
Miami Herald On the Caribbean
Trying to decide on the Caribbean island that’s best for you? I know, the decision can be a toughie, but shouldn’t be too much of a strain. The Miami Herald features an excellent piece highlighting noteworthy hotels, environmental aspects, restaurants and the basic ‘why’ you should come questions all there to help you plan. Ready to go nude? Try visiting St. Maarten’s Orient Beach to score your full body tan. Need a good reason to head over to St. Lucia? If beautiful beaches aren’t enough, grab a sunset cocktail at Ladera and just lounge to the sweet sounds of island music. Whether it’s live or from the stereo I’m sure there will be some coming from somewhere. Oh, and there’s my personal island favorite – Trinidad & Tobago. If you can’t make it for Carnival next year try planning a week long getaway to hike and bird watch. There’s always a blissful thing to do in Trinidad & Tobago – if you ask me. See the Miami Herald for all their spicy Caribbean island recommendations.
Deadwood on the Beach?
Here’s some rather interesting news from Hollywoodland. Looks like one of my favorite networks, HBO, creators of at least two of the best shows on television (Sopranos and Deadwood) are going to be producing a new program dedicated to surfing.
The network has greenlit 12 episodes of John From Cincinnati,” a “surf noir family drama” set in Southern California (where else?) that is the brainchild of “Deadwood” creator-exec producer David Milch. How Milch will manage to weave together California surf speak with the expletive-laden patois of Deadwood is anyone’s guess…as is, for that matter, the actual definition of “surf noir family drama”. That said, I eager await anything that comes from Milch’s creative mind. The premise of the new show has something to do with a guy named “John” who seeks surf lessons from a former surf champ whose life has been upended by a bad relationship and a messed up son named “Butchie”.
Sound cool or lame? Eager to see it or has Milch jumped the sharK? Want more details? OK, go here.
Lady Liberty’s B-day
Just in case you weren’t paying attention, let it be known that the Statue of Liberty celebrated her 120th birthday today…12 decades of standing out there in the harbor all be herself in the heat and cold, never complaining about a tired arm as she holds aloft the torch of freedom. Nary a sigh over the ridiculously high cost of real estate in Manhattan (bring me your poor….but send them to Queens).
I’ve been to Liberty Island twice now, and each time came away very impressed, very happy to be American. I’ve also paddled by her several times, even at the risk of being shot at or arrested by the Coast Guard. She’s a lovely symbol that we should all be grateful for…even if that means being gracious to the French, who gave her to us, after all. What I’d most like to see, however, is the ability for folks to climb up to her crown. That, I’ve never done.
Photo of the Day (10/29/2006)
No matter how cliche this photo is (and I’m sorry, it’s cliche…this near exact shot must be in the collection of every tourist who’s ever been to Angkor), I still like it.
I like the fact it’s in black and white and I like that the shooter, one RW007, had the patience to at least wait until one of these little scooter guys, rolled through the frame. The shot is, of course, Angkor’s famous south gate, and having savored Angkor’s jaw-dropping size and beauty myself, I couldn’t resist choosing this photo from the Gadling Flickr site.