Travel Photos: Hanging Church

. Posted by Sherrie Thai by Shaireproductions.com .

Egypt Hanging Church Photo 1, by Sherrie Thai of Shaireproductions

Egypt Hanging Church Photo 2, by Sherrie Thai of Shaireproductions

The “Hanging Church” (also known as Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church) in old Cairo, Egypt, has a fantastic mesh of Middle-Eastern geometric design and Basilican architecture. While approaching the entrance, there were a dozen heavily armed guards and a tank, a sad reminder of the perilous times we live in. The interior of the church was darker than I anticipated, but the lovely candles throughout created a mesmerizing ambiance.

View more photos at SMUGMUG or FLICKR

Travel Photos: Thailand

. Posted by Sherrie Thai by Shaireproductions.com . Here are some vacation highlights photos from my first trip to Asia. First up is lively Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai!

The full photo albums can be seen on Smugmug and Flickr

Chiang Mai Temple Thailand

Chiang Mai: Wat Phra That Temple. Climb up massive serpent stairs and atop of a hill, you’re greeted with exquisite gold-plated buddhas and an impressive stupa/shrine.

Bangkok Songkran Water Festival Thailand

Bangkok: Songkran New Years Water Festival . For 3 days, most of the country shuts down to partake in this fun ritual (which is mostly welcome due to the crazy 95 degree climate). Water is a purification for the coming new year, and the clay is a blessing. In the streets, everyone is fair game for an excellent soaking, except for seniors, babies and the revered monks.

Bangkok Grand Palace

Bangkok: Grand Palace. This locale is full of intricately decorated monuments and sculptures. The artwork is a combination of Buddhist, Hindu and Thai folklore, with beautiful beasts, massive guardian demons and golden angels.

Thailand Chiang Rai Hilltribes

Chiang Rai: Hill Tribes (Karen, Akha, Yao, Lanu). Some of these people are refugees, and others are indigenous people of Thailand, who sustain their living by selling handcrafts to tourists.

Thailand Chiang Mai Night Life

Chiang Mai: Night Market and Cabaret Show. I LOVE night markets–food, shopping, culture and fun! Thailand knows how to party!

Thailand Chiang Mai Cooking

Chiang Mai: Cooking Pad Thai (dangerous times!) The chef decided to show off his mad skills in the kitchen. I doubt I’ll repeat the dish unless I have proper protection, but I’m pleased to have attempted Tom Yum soup 🙂

Thailand Chiang Rai White Temple Wat Rong Khun

Chiang Rai: Wat Rong Khun (White Temple). One of my favorites as it’s a modern take on good vs. evil. You’ll find Batman and the Predator hanging out on the lawn 🙂

Thailand Photo Collage