Paul Steele

Picture Perfect: Anthony Tilghman (PHOTOS)

2013-05-06T20:39:15-04:00

Who we are, how are we feeling, what are we doing, where are we going -- photography can reflect all of this, and much more. This is precisely why visual social media sites like Pinterest, Instagram, and the Fancy are so popular. Because they they tell stories, and give us a glimpse of our lives, and of the world at large. Great photography is a powerful connector, a beautiful reminder, and an unstoppable, creative force.

In this debut Picture Perfect post, we take a look at Anthony Tilghman, a Washington, D.C., photographer who has become a regular on the red carpet at the Grammys and Academy Award ceremonies, and has awesome images from the recent presidential inauguration, among other high-profile events. We asked him to finish four phrases with his own thoughts, and then give us 10 of his favorite photos. We hope you enjoy!

Photographer Anthony Tilghman.
Photo Courtesy of Anthony Tilghman

I love photography because... it allows me to express myself through my lens, and have my vision come to life. There are so many reasons why folks are drawn to photography. My reason is because there is nothing like providing a great snapshot of an amazing experience.

Capturing a great picture requires... passion, talent and creativity. Anyone can take a photo, but only a few can really capture an image that speaks to you on many levels.

In five words, I would say my life is... Simply amazing, and getting better.

The future of photography...is bright. I think that social media has taken it to a whole new level, making a lot of things easier, and more accessible. But you can still see the skills and techniques of the professional photographers. No one can ever take that away. I have learned that in business, its all about results. No matter how many photographers come and go, the ones that have adapted and also show passion will go further.

For more information on Anthony Tilghman and his upcoming projects, check out his website and circle him on GooglePlus.

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Azerbaijan Focuses On The Future

2013-02-24T10:01:00-05:00

The last time I travelled to Azerbaijan, I said I wanted to see so much more. The Spring celebrations were in full swing and the capital, Baku, was about to host the Eurovision Song Contest. I had explored Baku and its vicinity, so rich in culture and history. The friendliness of the place was quite staggering to be honest.

As you wander you can feel that Azerbaijan is growing into a major attraction. There are huge plans coming to fruition around every corner. While I was in the country, the President was opening a vast ski resort in the Shahdagh region complete with five star facilities. This sort of news is fairly common.

Baku is, after all, preparing to host the very first European Games in 2015.

I was here to see that "more" I'd wanted so I headed north to the mountains. Before heading up there I was lucky enough to get some direct interviews with Government officials to gain their thoughts on the future of Azerbaijan, the great events it has hosted and the future with more events and tourism.

I asked the Minister of Tourism and Culture, Mr. Abulfaz Qarayev what he thought of recent publicity and what plans there are ahead:

2012 was marked with some very significant developments for travel and tourism in Azerbaijan. As you all know, Azerbaijan hosted two major international events past year - Eurovision 2012 and U-17 FIFA Women's Football World Cup. According to feedback we have from the organizers both events were organized and implemented successfully. Members of teams, coaches, performers, journalists from all over the Europe and world were quite impressed by the capital Baku and the country. It helped to maintain the positive trend of tourist arrivals, as there were some worries on our side that tourist flows might decline in 2012 from Europe and some other parts of the world due to economic and financial crisis. At this time, Azerbaijan is still on its path to become one of the primary tourist destinations in Europe, and these major events and many other important events helped a lot to show

travel opportunities for international travelers. We want to open up more to international tourists. Eurovision 2012 showed that Azerbaijan is very hospitable and tourist friendly country. We want travelers to explore not only the capital Baku, but also many beautiful regions of Azerbaijan. Regions of Azerbaijan have a lot to see and explore. Azerbaijan is a nice place to visit not only in summer or spring, but also in autumn and winter. For this we are developing the Shah-Dag skiing resort to cover the winter tourism side, with opening of first two hotels planned in the nearest future.

I have seen for myself some amazing history and stories in Azerbaijan. Religious tolerance is a striking thing to see as you travel; religions lost in time in other parts of the world still live together here.

Mr. Ali Hasanov, Head of Public Affairs Department of Presidential Administration

Azerbaijan although a small country with population of 9 million, and the size of Austria, yet has a lot of unique cultural and historical features. Azerbaijan has always been the meeting point civilizations -- it is the country where East meets West, Christianity meets Islam, it is a middle of historical Silk Way, and still part of Europe. Azerbaijan is one of few countries in the world where Christianity, Islam and Judaism live in peace, we are proud for being tolerant
and hospitable people. Until recently, the world didn't know where Azerbaijan was. But now everybody knows Azerbaijan and its capital Baku. This became obvious after Eurovision 2012 - Europe's major song contest. People in the West are now thinking if Azerbaijan is Europe or East. We welcome all those who have an interest in Azerbaijan to visit our country and to experience the country where ancient history coexists with modernity. We are proud for being the first country in the East to grant election rights to women, in 1918, established schools for women, opened opera theatres and we are the first democracy in entire East.

Azerbaijan's rich history and culture, nature and cuisine, love for arts and music are unique touristic features that many don't know yet.

It was time to head to the mountains. I had a lot to see and enjoy with plenty to learn. In my next post I will be highlighting a beautiful mountain region along with the vast culture and history of the area.

The Eden Valley: There's More to Cumbria Than the Lake District (PHOTOS)

2012-12-18T07:00:00-05:00

I must admit that I have been very nomadic in my life. Coming from Oldham in northwest England, I had a natural start with hills and mountains, but, due to both work and pleasure, I have found myself moving around. Lately, however, I have found myself more static -- well, during the times that I am not travelling or adventuring away. And it's because I have planted myself in the heart of all the places I go to in this corner of England: the Eden Valley, Cumbria. It's an absolute natural gem in its own right, but it's also on the doorstep of wonders galore.

Many travel to Cumbria for the Lake District. Of course, it is beautiful and the mountains and lakes are a huge pull. I have spend many days climbing and wandering there. But, on the other, eastern side of the M6 motorway sits this beautiful wide open valley with its hidden treasures and stunning backdrops. It is far removed from the tourist-packed Lake District, but is also being enjoyed immensely by all who have ventured there and discovered it.

Trapped between the highest points on the Pennines and the Eastern fells of the Lake District, the backdrops could not get any better no matter what season. Cross Fell gives panoramas for miles in all directions. Just to the South, there is also the Yorkshire Dales National Park, open fields mixed with little woodlands, streams and untouched villages each with a tale to tell. For larger places, there is the market town Appleby-in-Westmorland, which is one of the prettiest in the North and has a church with foundations dating back to the 12th century. Further north up the larger valley towns with infamous names like, for example, Penrith and Carlisle -- the latter from the times of the Roman Empire and as a fort for Hadrian's Wall.

History in these parts is all easily discoverable. Castles adorn the landscapes from high to low, ruins from ancient clashes with the Scots and battles of fore.

The views below give just a small idea of the vastness and beauty of the area, from above and within. Those that have been almost always return, be it for another river walk, another climb, more open country or relaxing in a beautiful quiet area of England.

Cyprus Reveals Itself To Those Who Walk (PHOTOS)

2012-11-28T07:40:00-05:00

Earlier this year I travelled to a place better known for sea, sand and unrest than for hiking, but what I found on Cyprus was one of the perfect place to explore on foot.

Away from the madness of the tourist traps and the crowded beaches, Cyprus reveals itself. Quiet paths lead through natural settings and into historical villages that exist years away from the bustle advertised in the brochures.

Take a peninsula to the West side of the island for instance: Legends combined with sun-kissed landscapes along the Aphrodite Nature Trail, which stretches languidly along the coast and offers access to the beautiful "Baths of Aphrodite." The stories about this place and the goddess that once came here are as sweeping as the panoramic views.

Closer to the middle of the island, the Troodos Mountains off miles upon miles of rugged trail. Some paths lead to the top of the peaks while others wind through green, tree-lined valleys. I hiked and hiked and absolutely loved it. The views are vast. I could spend months hiking these paths and still want to do more.

Those that are interested in religious history cannot go far away without finding a church or monastery full of unique ancient writings and pictures. Even agnostics can get a sense of awe passed down through the ages by entering the the small, heavily decorated building hidden off the trails.

The food that was on offer near the trail in the mountains was vastly different from touristic offerings and completely out of this world. I hadn't eaten or wanted to eat so much for a long time. Meze was the order of the day.

I will return to Cyprus. There is no doubt about that. And I won't be at the beach.

Your Photo in the Fantastic FOTO8 Summershow - Last Chance!

2012-05-02T12:34:25-04:00

The FOTO8 Summershow 2012, the UK's only open-entry, annual photography show is centred around the premise that our photographs can provide compelling and powerful ways of seeing the world and create debate over what makes a great photograph.

Images from crumbling Syria to the bedrooms of Bournemouth are just some of the photographs being submitted into the competition from around the world. Casual 'snap happy' photographers have as much chance as being exhibited alongside artists and professionals from around the world - the only remit is that the images should provide a window on life, convey powerful stories and evoke questions. The deadline for entries is 15 May. [See entry details below].

In excess of 3000 images from all corners of the world are entered, some 150 will be carefully selected for display in the Summershow and offered for sale. A panel of internationally respected judges, including for 2012, BAFTA award winning artist/photographer Alison Jackson; Simon Roberts, one of the highest regarded documentary photographers of the new generation artists; Gerry Badger, foremost UK photo historian and commentator who wrote "the" book on photography; Phil Coomes, the BBC's director of online photography and Ossian Ward, arts editor of Time Out, will select an image to be Best in Show for which there is a £2,000 prize. The winner will be announced at the FOTO8 Summershow party, on 6 July when the photographic community come out to party at a huge street celebration with more than 600 revellers taking over Honduras Street. The show opens to the public on 7 July 2012.

To stimulate debate over what makes a great photograph, FOTO8 asks visitors to vote for their favourite image over the duration of the exhibition. The image with the most votes receives the Peoples' Choice Award announced two weeks prior to the close of the Summershow.

This year's Summershow benefits from newly refurbished premises. The FOTO8 gallery, previously known as HOST Gallery, has been significantly expanded and will provide increased gallery space for 2012.

"The opportunity to capture an image that dramatically communicates a moment in time is no longer just the reserve of the professional photographer. The FOTO8 Summershow celebrates this fact by asking everyone to put forward a picture and in doing so create an exhibition that holds a mirror to society and the lives we live now. The Summershow is also a recognised platform for new talent and a unique canvas for evolving photographic styles. This makes it hugely popular with photography collectors and enthusiasts alike" Jon Levy, FOTO8 Founder and Co-Director

"Anyone can take a picture but the fun and interest is exploring what makes a great photograph. What is so exciting about this competition is that it does just this by being open to everyone across all subject matter. Choosing just one image to win is wonderfully provocative and I am very much looking forward to taking part as well as seeing the new talent coming through." Alison Jackson, photographer and FOTO8 Summershow Judge 2012

Have you got an image for the FOTO8 Summershow?
If you think you have an image that tells a powerful story, why not enter? To enter and for submission guidelines visit here. Entries must be submitted by 15 May.

Below are a selection of photographs being submitted plus some winners from last year.

Discovering The Mysterious Charms Of Azerbaijan (PHOTOS)

2012-04-20T07:00:00-04:00

After landing in Baku, I discovered one thing straight away: Azerbaijan is an incredibly hospitable country. This realization put a bounce in my step as I considered the days of discovery ahead.

Azerbaijan is surrounded by a diverse range of countries, from Iran in the South to Russia in the North, and has been shaped by a huge history of cultural heterogeneity. A reborn country again thanks to the breakup of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan prides itself on progress. Baku, the capital sits overlooking the gorgeous Caspian Sea, which the locals proudly call the largest lake in the world, facing the rising sun.

Though Azerbaijan is a predominantly Islamic country, natives are free to practice any religion they choose and their seems to be a genuine pride taken in the respect disperate faction give each others' beliefs and practices. This was the first Islamic country in the world to grant women the right to vote, beating -- among others -- my very own Britain. This tolerance and open thinking has historical precedent. The traditional Jewish communities that spread all over the world hundreds of years ago are now spotted by memorials to the dead. In Azerbaijan, the large Jewish population still lives as they did way back when.

To wander through Baku is to wander through centuries of history. At the center is the "Old City," with its aging palaces, high walls, and beautiful mosques, some of which date back to the 11th century. Still, this is no ghost museum or tourist trap, but a working neighborhood with traditions intact.

The newer parts of Baku present architectural wonders as well. The Nobel brothers lived here in the late 1800s and brought along some European influence. To walk along many of the streets, is to feel that you are in Paris walking towards a futuristic horizon.

You do not have to travel far outside the city to appreciate the wonders of nature. Azerbaijan is home to 70 percent of the world's mud volcanoes and it is a marvel to watch them bubbling away. Nearby, nearly 6,000 rock paintings crowd the walls at Gobustan, where 40,000-year-old carvings have been discovered.

The countries namesake -- Azerbaijan means "Land of Fire" -- is its flaming blessing. Ignited natural gas rises from the ground, creating stunning if not shocking sites that, hundreds and hundreds of years ago., attracted Hindu fire worshippers to this, the true gate between the East and West.

The photos below will show some of the many experiences I had during my visit. Still, I know I have barely scratched the surface in exploring this land.

Brecqhou: A Private Channel Island Opens To The Public

2012-03-08T07:00:00-05:00

The beautiful Island of Sark in the Bailiwick of Guernsey, itself part of The Channel Islands, has a little neighbor just off its shore that has been hidden from the public eye for many years. The private island of Brecqhou has now been opened to the general public for day trips from Sark.

Visitors can now tour the private gardens, vineyards and chapel of Sir David and Sir Frederick Barclay, who bought the tiny Channel Island in 1995.

Since the public last saw the island, the brothers have transformed it with 190,000 trees, shrubs, flowers and vineyards planted. There are now 2,000 species on the island. There is also a village on Brecqhou, as well as orchards, chapel and a pub.

Day trips to Brecqhou are complimentary for all hotel guests booking through any of the four luxury hotels in the Sark Island Hotels group. Brecqhou will also soon open to anyone coming to Sark for the day or staying in other hotels and guesthouses on the Isle of Sark.

"Brecqhou is a special place to visit for anyone coming to the Channel Islands. Over the past 16 years around 190,000 trees, shrubs and flowers have been planted on Brecqhou and the landscaped gardens have developed and matured into an idyllic haven for 2,000 species." - Kevin Delaney, managing director of Sark Estate Management

Sark itself is an incredible place to visit. There are no cars to be found and tracks here are used only by people on foot or travelling by bicycle or horse and carriage. Bliss.

(photography: Archie Brooksbank)

A Song Of Iceland And Fire (PHOTOS)

2012-01-12T07:00:00-05:00

Iceland boasts a singular landscape punctuated by hot spas, geysers, mountains, glacial lakes and rivers. Outside of Reykjavik, where two thirds of the island nation's 320,000 citizens live, sits nearly 40,000 square miles of pure nature waiting to be discovered. In the summer, the sun keeps this country lit even at midnight.

Tectonic Rift

Because it sits atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland has many surprises for any type of adventurer. A couple of hours drive from the capital or the airport is the rift where the American tectonic plate meets the European plate, the only place where this lines is visible above the Atlantic. A huge wall stands before you as you imagine the force of the earth and the time taken to form what is beneath our feet. Makes you feel small indeed. Visitors to this spot can even swimming within the crack in clear, still water.

Highlands

Over thousands and thousands of years, Iceland's volcanic activity has created a wilderness that must be seen to be believed. Hiking trails traverse the tops and bottoms of striking valleys. Glaciers, volcanoes and green green hills lie in literally every direction. Thanks to fresh eruptions, this beautiful place is still changing. Up the slopes of the famous volcano Eyjafjallajökull are lava flows, smoldering rocks and intimate views of how the Earth was formed.

Relaxing

It is worth noting that Iceland is not all go go go. The Blue Lagoon is a testament to that for sure. Soaking in these therapeutic hot springs, cold drink in hand under the open sky is nothing if not lovely.

Find below a small number of views from my hikes all over Iceland. I barely touched a small percentage of what the island has to offer but still felt like I'ds seen a lot. This is nature served raw.

Awed By Uluru (PHOTOS)

2011-08-19T05:33:45-04:00

Rising over a thousand feet straight up from the flat red desert of central Australia stands Uluru, a sandstone megalith that embodies the history, mystery and culture of the Outback. To see it first hand -- I can tell you-- is a spectacular treat.

The sun spends its day circling around this stately rock and from dawn to dusk Uluru seems to change color and texture. Humans lived close to the rock 10,000 years ago and tales have been passed from generation to generation about the sacredness of this place. The Aborigines request that no one climb this rock because it is sacred. Despite being an avid climber, I honored their request. After all, I wouldn't climb the Duomo: Doing so would be in terrible taste.

Fortunately, you do not have to climb it to get a personal look. Circling Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, in a helicopter at dusk is a must. The redness, the vastness, the shadows. Amazing.

You can also sit in the open desert and take in the 'Sounds of Silence' dining experience. Watch the sun set on the rock then the milky way emerge in full glory.

Uluru and the stony hills of Kata-Tjuta nearby are so much more than rocks in a desert. Uluru is the Australian constant: the north star brought to earth.

Photographic Dreams Of The Wild Do Come True

2011-06-14T17:00:00-04:00

I love my travel and I love my photography. On a personal level, I always try to experience the best of both. Seeing the world with different eyes and a renewed sense of wonder...

There are many different ways to travel and so are there many ways to explore places to go. One way to do this is to combine a love of photography with a love for traveling. Have a look at the award-winning work of photographer Paul Goldstein,
tour guide for Exodus. He can shows it just might be possible to snag that elusive "perfect shot".

Get wild and go Natural

A classic safari in Kenya is favorite for many people, but when combining it with photography travelers will reach a whole new level -- waking up at dawn to catch leopards at sunrise when the lighting is best. Or capture a perfect sunset at the end of the day.

Go Arctic for Inspiration

Ever been beyond the Arctic circle to Spitsbergen? With huge 200,000-strong colonies of little auk thronging the cliffs and shores, kittiwakes next to the cobalt blue glaciers, walrus wallowing in the shallows, Arctic foxes, whales and, of course, one of the ultimate wildlife sightings, the mighty polar bear, frequently seen hunting in its frosty backyard on ice floes.

With 24-hour daylight, the photographing time is maximized amid this breathtaking glacial scenery.

And there are so many more parts of the world that are true treasures for any traveler. Hooking up with an experience photographer and learning the ropes will put you on the road to more rich traveling experiences and memories. And hey, maybe even a paying gig for a travel website or publication. You never know.

Here's a bit of visual inspiration from Paul Goldstein that might just get you up and out into the wild and snapping away...

Tenerife -- Explore Beauty Beyond the Beaches

2011-05-25T09:50:16-04:00

Away from the beaches, away from the pool and away from the bars. Tenerife has so much to offer those that want to get out and hike or see nature in very unique ways. All on one Spanish island. All these hikes, climbs, activities and experiences are only within an hour of the hustle and bustle of the resorts of Playa de las Americas and Adeje for example.

You can see it as you fly in, it towers up from the centre of the island rising up above the cloud, Mt Teide summit. Standing at 3,718 m (12,198 ft) it is the highest point in Spain and is the third highest volcano in the world, measured from its base under the ocean. Part of Teide National Park that has become the most visited in Europe.

There are two ways up. The quick tourist way is to take the cable car to within 160 m of the summit or climbing the good old way, on foot. With a reasonable physical fitness the climb is naturally the best and most rewarding, seeing close hand the lunar landscape, looking out over the island from great viewpoints and experiencing a great mountain. It takes between 5 - 7 hours to reach the place the cable car reaches and this is where you would need a permit to proceed to the summit. Due to conservation only a handful of people are allowed on the summit area/cone per hour and if you want to go all the way then it really is best to book your permit days in advance here. Permit in hand I made my way to the top with the smell of sulphur rich in the air, and looked down below over all the island. One of my favourite summit experiences truth be told. Take a look at the slideshow below this post to get a teaser.

To the North West of Tenerife is the long cut off remote village of Masca. So remote the road to it was not built until just 1991. What a setting it has though. Perched on the side of the mountains at the top of a ravine that winds its way to Masca Bay at the shore.

Keen walkers may have heard of this ravine but for those that do not then take the opportunity whilst on the island to walk it, 2 and a half to 3 hours downhill through the gorge. Mountains rising high beside you making some parts only 20 m wide.

Beautiful walk, unique private views around every corner with great natural architecture above and beyond. greeting you at the bottom is Masca Bay and the turquoise waters. If you are not keen like some of us and do not fancy the hike all the way back up to Masca the you can always pre book a boat to pick you up and take you round the coast to the buses.

Speaking of boats I took a day off my feet and went on a dolphin safari. To see dolphins swimming free in families in such abundance was a true pleasure. They came and more came, swimming by the boat as if to say hello. The coast of Tenerife was only a couple of miles away so it is not that you have to go far to see them. Wonderful.

A detailed day by day account of these adventures can be found at BaldHiker too.

Rise of the Female Geek

2011-05-13T20:09:22-04:00

This is the latest post in our series, TwitterPowerhouses, which focuses on the contributions of people who've helped to expand, influence, and redefine how we view social networking.

We agree with the words of author Nina Krebs: "A woman with drive and commitment to make something happen doesn't do well with restrictive comments like 'This is the way we've always done it.'" This can be seen in the achievements of Jeannette Rankin, Mary Church Terrell, Alicia Dickerson Montemayor, Sheryl Sandberg, Corizon Aquino, Benazir Bhutto, and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. We all stand on the shoulders of these women, and countless others who've given immeasurable substance to our lives. Accomplished, forward-thinking, goal-oriented women. From whose legacies we receive knowledge; and from whose spirits receive strength.

Like them, the dynamic females we've profiled also have an unshakable passion for education, fueled in part by the historical examples that inspire us, and by the contemporary tools they're using to make each of them a leader in this young millennium. However you say it - geekdom or geekery - these women live it, promote it, breathe it, personify it. The impact of female geeks is often ignored, or, intentionally given "special mention" status. Neither reality is acceptable. Yes, the authors of this post can generally spot a female geek in a crowd.

This is why we know you'll love the women in this piece. They take, but they give more. They're dream merchants, tech enthusiasts, industry professionals, mentors, motivational speakers, business visionaries and wordsmiths, and their social media presence excites us. They create opportunities for themselves and others, and they stand as beautiful examples of what is possible, and certainly probable, when you explore the depth and scope of your talents and skills. They use their influence to make an impact, moving humanity in a positive direction and embracing the very best. Oh yeah...and they rock too!

In case you missed it, here's Part 17 of the series: 16 Health Experts To Check Out On Twitter.

Guernsey - A Walker's Paradise (PHOTOS)

2011-05-03T07:40:39-04:00

Guernsey, in the English Channel, sits 30 miles from the north coast of France and 70 miles from the south coast of England, self-governing but maintaining its loyalty to the British Crown.

After spending a few days there, I quickly found out that this was a remarkable hiking and walking destination. It had never appeared on my radar before but how, I do not know, as you can be there from London in 45 minutes. Yes, it is very calm and beautiful, has a warmer climate than the UK and once there you will see why many spend most of their time outdoors.

White sandy beaches and bays, turquoise sea. Clifftop walks and inland wanders. Forget the busy commercialism of many destinations, you can often find you have have a beach to yourself or walk the coast meeting only a handful of other people. One of the beauties of its island location.

Even in just one day I got to see the sunrise in the east, walk a few miles of coast and then sit to watch the sunset in Cobo Bay. Along the way seeing some things that seldom give appearance in such abundance. Flowers everywhere, swirling seas below the cliffs and beach upon quiet white sanded beach.

Within an hour you can even catch a ferry to the smaller islands of Herm or Sark. No cars there, just even more beautiful wildness, history to learn and miles to gain underfoot with joy. The coast is perfect for the adrenalin filled sport of coasteering with Outdoor Guernsey, something I took on and got to see the cliffs from a whole new perspective.

Accommodation on Guernsey can be found in all forms from luxury to guest house and camping. Just take a look here for a wide range of examples.

No matter how small you think these islands are I must admit even after 5 days I had not even scratched the surface in exploring and appreciating them. I look forward to my return.
For more of the wonderful sights that can be seen here please take a look at the photos below.

The Wonder of Norway From Above (PHOTOS)

2011-03-21T08:25:29-04:00

On my last post I showed my experience of a variety of adventures during a winter visit around Norway from bottom to top. Well, another man who has been over there recently is Professor Brian Cox, who incidentally comes from the same town as me: Oldham, England.

Brian was in Norway to film a part of "The Wonders of the Universe" series currently running in the UK on BBC. In the "Wonders of the Universe" trailers and in each shows intro you see magnificent helicopter shots of Brian on top of a Norwegian mountain. Episode 3, aired in the UK on Sunday features more great helicopter shots of the Sunnmøre Alps and the Stranda Ski resort that is in the middle of these majestic alps. (*SEE PHOTOS & VIDEO BELOW*)

The local newspaper Møre-Nytt quotes Brian Cox about his visit to Sunnmøre Alps:

"It's as close to the UK as the French Alps, but very much less well known, and for me it's far more beautiful. Part of the reason for this is that it's unspoiled. I loved the little ski area at Stranda, but the magnificent isolated beauty I saw from Dalagubben is surely one of the greatest views on Earth."

The company that shot the helicopter scenes, Fuglefjellet has very kindly allowed me to show you these stunning helicopter videos of the area. These magnificent Aerial shots are captured with state of the art Cineflex aerial filming system by film company Fuglefjellet who also shot the Sunnmøre Alps aerials for Wonders of the Universe. Breathtaking!

Norwegian Sunrise:

Norwegian sunrise from Fuglefjellet on Vimeo.

Norwegian Landscape

Norwegian landscape from Fuglefjellet on Vimeo.

Norwegian Winter
Features Stranda Ski resort in the middle of the Sunnmøre Alps where you might ski from the mountain peak and all the way down to the small fjord village Stranda.

Norwegian winter from Fuglefjellet on Vimeo.

Summer views of Norway from above may also be found in Fuglefjellet showreels on Facebook or Vimeo.

Below is more of the wonder of Norway from above. Photographs showcasing the Sunnmøre Alps and Strandafjellet Ski Resort.

copyright: Arild Solberg/DigiCrew/Fuglefjellet

Norway In Winter - All Wrapped Up (PHOTOS, VIDEO)

2011-03-15T14:54:58-04:00

Norway in winter may sound cold and bland to many people but as I have found this February it is very far removed from that with a whole wealth of activity, exploration and experiences to be found there.

Thanks to a social media competition 'Norway, Your Way' by visitnorway.com plus the help from lots of online friends I was chosen as the U.K. representative to go explore what Norway in winter has to offer. It proved to be a whirlwind 10 days with so much to do but still leaving me wanting to go back soonest to explore more. The following photo slideshow shows only some of the memories we made and have.

Lillehammer, home of the 1994 Winter Olympics. A small winter wonderland town that quite rightly shows off its achievements in hosting such a huge event. Once there you can yourself take to the Olympic bobsleigh track and experience 3G around the bends. For fast but more gentle fun, you can go tobogganing down the special made runs and to top the day off we stayed overnight in Hunderfossen Snow Hotel, an experience to say the least, wrapped up inside a thick sleeping bag in a tranquil cool icy room. The icy/snow walls absorb all sound so the sudden quietness as you fall asleep is remarkable.

For such a large country, Norway's population is still only measured to be just fewer than 5 million total. As you travel throughout the land you notice that each village, town or city seems far separated from the next. To see some sort of large denser urban life you would need to visit the capital Oslo or the beautifully set port city of Bergen. Both have huge amounts of history to explore and are quite different to one another in their own right.

Norwegians are famous skiers and it soon becomes understandable why: snow and slopes are everywhere. Norefjell was the first of our winter sports stops. Cross country skiing was the order of the day. Yes, it is harder than it looks. As I spent a lot of time on the floor it was humbling but great to see many toddlers gliding past me with ease. Overnight was more than comfortable staying local at Recover Norefjell, lovely wooden cabins set high in the pine trees, a perfect retreat. For our Alpine skiing adventures we went high above the town of Voss. Miles and miles of great runs and lots of choice for all standards. This I did take to a lot faster and enjoyed all the downhill to the full whilst staying upright most of the time.

Further up the coast we visited the town of Ålesund, full of its art nouveau architecture. Fishing boats full of the days catch line the port as you walk along, and I can honestly say I have never seen cod as large as these here. A treat it was to be able to go out to sea with one of the boats and see them catching them in action.

Our travel memories are always filled with sights of wonder and a new one gained for me here was the fjords of Fjord Norway. I had seen pictures and imagined but from setting off on boat at Flåm and spending time cruising through them we could only look on in awe. The winter had made them their own special way too with calm icy water with reflections of icy mountains.

For a different kind of boat journey a trip up the Western coast by the famous Hurtigruten brought a whole new adventure. Rocky coats, superb sunrises and Arctic seas. It was aboard here we took our sight of the North Cape, the northernmost point of mainland Europe. A bitter wind on deck did not stop everyone from getting out a savoring the views and thoughts of where we where.

And so, yes, the Arctic Circle, with more to do than you can imagine, life goes on very happily up here and they have the sports to show for it. In Tromsø it was dog sledding at the Villmarkssenter. Exhilarating! Snow suited up we walked to the dogs and that was it, the howling began in earnest. They knew they were going to get a run out and they simply just wanted to go and go. Gorgeous dogs and gorgeous white surroundings. How could we finish the day? Well of course, a tour and tasting session of the local Mack Brewery.

Further up we had more fun in Alta and the snow scooter safari with Garjia Fjellstue. Engines revved up and off we went, around and upwards onto the mountain tops, icy wind in the faces and the sun shining down on the snow that was being blown across creating a great landscape. No matter how fast you motor along it was impossible not to stop to look around you at times.

There was one thing throughout this trip that could not be planned. This event would need not only us to be in so far north, but also to have the perfect weather conditions and solar activity. Yes, the northern lights. It was incredible, the last night, as we had looked around Norway's largest Ice Hotel, the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel, and drank blue vodka out of glasses of ice the elements came together, we had our Northern lights. All rushed outside and looked up. Truly unforgettable, green glows dancing, shooting stars making a turn for us and one of the most memorable evenings of my life to cap a most memorable ten days.