My Close Encounter With Pope Benedict XVI

February 12, 2013June 15, 2014 / ludlumdrive / Leave a comment

As we heard the surprising news this morning of Pope’s resignation, I went back and dusted off some pictures from last year’s trip to Italy that I have yet to post here. Yes, I was this close to him, could have touched him but would have to walk over the guards and they were not having it. Besides, I needed to take pictures, was too excited and could not see myself pulling double duty.

It was one beautiful October morning, one that I will never forget in my life. I was visiting but singing in the St. Peter’s Basilica, priceless. Yes indeed!

Holiday Still, Geneva!

January 16, 2013June 15, 2014 / ludlumdrive / Leave a comment

I know, Christmas season is over and done with it but I thought I would share a few pictures I took of Geneva at the time. Although, it wasn’t Paris, Milan or New York City, synonymous to Christmas exuberance, there were still sparkles of light and decor around the city to utter holiday.

The decor at Hotel President Wilson, simple, elegant and beautiful.

Named after the former US President, Woodrow Wilson, and adjacent to the Palais Wilson, currently the headquarters of the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights, this refined property overlooks Lac Leman (Lake Geneva) and boasts the most expensive suite in the world.

The Royal Penthouse suite costs SF75,000 (€58,000) (USD $58,000) per night and has had numerous Heads of State and celebrities enjoy its luxury. Opened in 1963, the hotel has been a member of the Luxury Collection of Starwood Hotels and Resorts since 2000 and was extensively renovated in 2010. (Source http://www.businesstraveller.com)

Yeah, I can just imagine me paying (USD $58,000) for a hotel room per night.

Opposite side Lac Leman (Lake Geneva)

The tip of the building.

Merry Christmas, Switzerland!

December 24, 2012January 5, 2015 / ludlumdrive / Leave a comment

Christmas tree at Center Commercial du Balexert, Geneva.

Christmas light decor at Rolex Center.

They are not big on light or Chrismas decor here. So, I was surprised to se this display and could not wait to share it with you. Perhaps that energy bill at the end of the month is really important to them. There are very few and they are very poised, reserved about the whole Christmas shindig. Not as commercialized as one would think. As a matter of fact, I only saw them rushing to the supermaket on the 24th. It was crowded but not as busy and everyone was on their best behavior.

A few ornaments I found in a shopping center in Geneva.