Category Archives: United States of America

Top Ten Photos of 2011

Have a healthy and happy new year, cheers!

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston was founded on September 17, 1630, by Puritan colonists from England. Today it is well known for its higher education and professional sports teams. As a city Boston was much smaller than I expected. The downtown skyline is similar to a Cleveland or a Jacksonville.

The city’s economy is also based on research, electronics, engineering, finance, and biotechnology. Recently, Boston has been experiencing gentrification and has one of the highest costs of living in the United States. Overall it is a great city to bring your camera to and learn a little history.

Many of my photos here are of historic Fenway Park. Being a die hard Minnesota Twins and Cleveland Indians fan, I don’t often like much about the Red Sox, but at the same time, as a baseball purist I have to put it in the same category as Wrigley Field as one of the top two stadiums in the majors. It has served as the home of the Boston Red Sox since it opened in 1912, and is the oldest Major League Baseball stadium currently in use.

NYC, New York

Is there any city quite like it on earth? Probably not. Almost every nationality has its own neighborhood, shops, and languages present. For those who like photography, it is a great place to shoot urban landscapes. For those who like history, it also has its place. I think the main thing to do in New York is to try and remove yourself from the daily grind and fast paced style of the locals, and to just look around and take it all in. Take mental snapshots, visit a corner street stand for lunch, start a conversation with a local.  New York means something different to everyone who has ever been there. Being the point of entry for several immigrant generations, New York and Ellis Island will always hold a unique place in American history.

Columbia, SC

Located in the middle of South Carolina, sits the capital, Columbia. It was here that General William Sherman stationed thousands of troops during the Union army’s rampage through the South. Much of Columbia was destroyed by Union troops, including a devastating and controversial fire that left most of the city in ashes.

Today, Columbia is at the heart of the Midlands. Recent revitalization near the Congaree River has seen Columbia become a solid tourist destination. On Saturdays throughout the fall loyal South Carolina fans flock to Columbia to support Steve Spurrier and the Gamecocks. Most SEC games sell out but it is possible to get decent seats for non-conference games at less than face value. Located on the USC campus is a new convention center and college basketball arena that can host concerts and other events.

Nicknamed “The Capital of Southern Hospitality” Columbia does not disappoint. Its rich history offers several museums as well as access to the capital building when it is not in session. For those wanting to unwind check out the Vista or Five Points for restaurants and spirits.

For those traveling the States without access to a car, the easiest way to get to Columbia is via Amtrak. The train station is located within walking distance of the central business district. Air travel is also a possibility but due to the small size of Columbia Metropolitan Airport, fares to Charlotte are more reasonably priced.

Check the official city website for more informaion- Columbiasc.net