USS Missouri

Constructed at the height of World War II, the USS Missouri holds a significant place in history as the site where Japan formally surrendered on September 2, 1945, effectively bringing the global conflict to an end. Following her pivotal role in the war, she was later transformed into a museum ship, preserving her legacy for future generations. Remarkably, the Missouri was reactivated decades later, serving once again during the Gulf War before being decommissioned for the final time. Today, she rests in honored retirement at Pearl Harbor, standing as a powerful symbol of American naval history and resilience.

Echoes of Blue and Green

 

The Land, Sky, and Sea—as seen from the shores of Saint Thomas, USVI—come together in a breathtaking harmony that feels almost otherworldly. The deep, endless blue of both the sea and the sky is utterly enchanting, blurring the line between where the ocean ends and the heavens begin. In contrast, the lush emerald green of the land adds a striking depth and richness to the view, grounding it in vibrant life.

There’s a kind of magic in the Caribbean—a beauty that’s not just seen, but felt. Few places on Earth offer such a vivid, soul-stirring palette of colors and calm. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left, etched in memory like a perfect painting.  

 Also linked to: Sunday Best.

Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace stands as one of the few remaining vestiges of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi—a stunning architectural gem nestled in the heart of Honolulu. While its beauty is undeniable, the palace also serves as a powerful symbol and reminder of the colonization and forced overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom by the United States. It's a painful and shameful chapter of American history that must not be forgotten or glossed over.

I’ve always found it deeply ironic that the first official state visit by a foreign head of state to the United States was made by King Kalākaua of Hawaiʻi in 1874. Just 19 years later, the very kingdom he ruled would be overthrown, its sovereignty dismantled, and eventually absorbed as a U.S. territory—ultimately becoming the 50th state in 1959. The story of ʻIolani Palace is more than just a relic of the past; it is a testament to resilience and a call to remember the truth of what was lost.

He ʻIke Hawaiʻi

Hawaii is world-renowned for its stunning beaches, and this island paradise in the Pacific certainly lived up to the hype. This photo was taken on the eastern side of Oʻahu, where the views are nothing short of breathtaking. In the distance, you can spot Mānana Seabird Sanctuary, rising gently from the ocean. The combination of soft waves, golden light, and distant islets makes this moment feel like something out of a dream.

 Also linked to: Sunday Best.

Saint/Sint

Every Caribbean island I’ve visited has its own unique charm and culture. While they share certain similarities—like a rich history, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes—each one offers its own distinct flavor and personality. Saint Martin is a perfect example of this diversity.

Divided between the French and the Dutch, this beautiful paradise is a captivating blend of two cultures. On the French side, you’ll find a refined, European flair with elegant cafes, fine dining, and a laid-back sophistication. Meanwhile, the Dutch side offers a lively, colorful atmosphere with bustling beach bars, casinos, and a vibrant nightlife. Though they share the same island, the two sides maintain their own distinct character, creating a fascinating contrast.

What makes Saint Martin truly special is the way these cultures coexist, offering visitors a chance to experience two worlds in one breathtaking destination. Whether strolling through a charming French market or enjoying the energy of a Dutch beach party, the island’s dual identity makes it all the more inviting and unforgettable.

 Also linked to: Sunday Best.

Somber Sky

The Hawaiian sky stands as a silent guardian over the USS Arizona, resting in eternal repose at Pearl Harbor. Sunk during the infamous surprise attack on December 7, 1941, it remains a solemn tomb for 1,177 men. Seeing it in person was a deeply emotional and reflective experience—a powerful reminder of its history and the events that followed. us.

 

 

Saba

 

The volcanic cone of Saba rises in the distance, viewed from the shores of Saint Martin. Its cloud-capped silhouette looked almost primeval, evoking the mental image I had of Isla Nublar while reading Jurassic Park. Unfortunately, I only experienced Saba from afar, but I hope to one day see its steep, dramatic hills up close and explore its rugged beauty for myself.

 Also linked to: Sunday Best.

Watery Window

Most views outside a window pale in comparison to the vibrant scenes beyond this one. During my last visit to Catalina Island, we boarded a semi-submersible and ventured into the fish sanctuary. The waters around the Channel Islands are teeming with life, and the fish there are nothing short of spectacular—displaying a dazzling array of colors that truly take your breath away.

 

Vibrant Memorial

The vibrant colors of Hawaii add a poignant contrast to this solemn scene. Here lie the remains of the USS Arizona and the brave men who went down with her during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The radiant sky and lush greenery surrounding the memorial stand as a quiet yet powerful tribute to those who were lost, a reminder of beauty and resilience amidst the weight of history.

 

Also linked to: Sunday Best.

Isla Del Paraiso

My first glimpse of Puerto Rico came through the lyrics of "America" in West Side Story—a portrayal that, in hindsight, did little justice to the island’s true essence.

Stepping onto its shores, I was immediately struck by its rich history and breathtaking beauty. Though my visit was brief, it left me yearning for more. San Juan alone could captivate me for weeks—wandering through its colonial streets, exploring its storied forts, and indulging in its incredible cuisine. Puerto Rico is, without a doubt, a true gem of the Caribbean.

 Mi primer vistazo a Puerto Rico fue a través de la canción "America" en West Side Story, una representación que, en retrospectiva, no le hacía justicia a la verdadera esencia de la isla.

Al poner un pie en sus tierras, me impresionaron de inmediato su rica historia y su asombrosa belleza. Aunque mi visita fue breve, me dejó con ganas de más. San Juan, por sí solo, podría cautivarme durante semanas—paseando por sus calles coloniales, explorando sus históricos fuertes y deleitándome con su increíble gastronomía. Sin duda, Puerto Rico es una verdadera joya del Caribe.

Honduran Day

Snorkeling in the calm, crystal-clear waters of Big French Cay in Roatan, Honduras, is an unforgettable experience. As you glide through the water, schools of cheerful fish swim playfully around your legs, creating a lively scene. Beneath the surface, replica ruins surrounded by anemones spark the imagination, inviting you to dive deeper into the wonders of the sea. After a refreshing swim, unwind with a Mai Tai or another tropical drink in hand, while soaking in the beauty of a perfect Honduran day.

Black Rocks

Weathered lava flows from Mount Liamuiga have shaped these striking formations along the coast of Saint Kitts. Over time, the relentless pounding of the waves against the jagged rocks has sculpted them into towering natural spires, rising from the water like the steeples of an ancient cathedral. The contrast between the dark, rugged stone and the endless motion of the sea creates a mesmerizing and dramatic landscape, a testament to nature’s artistry and the power of the elements.

Also linked to: Sunday Best.

Side-Eye

The residents of Roatan, Honduras, are incredibly friendly—though they tend to prefer just hanging out and watching you go about your day. They're more than happy to silently judge your choice in swimwear, but don’t expect any advice or suggestions. They keep their opinions to themselves, letting you live in your questionable fashion decisions without a word. It’s like having an audience that’s totally chill... except for the side-eye you might get from time to time.

 

SS Selma

Built in Mobile, AL in 1919, the SS Selma was the largest of a unique class of concrete ships. She remained in service for only a few years before striking a jetty in Tampico, Mexico, in 1920. Towed to Galveston for repairs, she was ultimately abandoned in 1922 and allowed to sink just off Pelican Island, about a mile north of Galveston. Today, she remains the only permanent shipwreck in the Houston Ship Channel, a lasting relic of maritime history.

Windows over the Bay

Looking through the trees from Telegraph Hill downs towards Treasure Island the the Bay Bridge spanning the San Francisco Bay.  

Another view of the Bay Bridge and part of the San Francisco skyline. 

Catalina Sky

Two years ago, I finally visited a place I had promised myself I would—Catalina Island, one of California's Channel Islands. Technically part of Los Angeles, it feels like a world away from the city. In many ways, it feels removed from the mainland altogether, almost like stepping into another country.

I hope to visit again—next time for longer than the few fleeting hours a cruise excursion allows.

Romney Manor Bell Tower

Peaceful and scenic—this is your first impression of the bell tower at Romney Manor on Saint Kitts. Surrounded by lush, manicured gardens, the tower stands as a striking contrast to its dark history.

For the enslaved people who toiled on these grounds, this tower was not just a structure; it was a tool of control. Its bell dictated their days, signaling when to work under the relentless Caribbean sun. Upon emancipation, most bell towers like this were destroyed, symbols of oppression too painful to preserve.

 This one survived—saved because its owner was considered ‘nicer’ than most.

Coming from a state with its own deep and painful history tied to slavery and the slave trade, I have visited many places that played a role in this unimaginable chapter of human history. No matter how uncomfortable it is, no matter how much it hurts to confront the past, we must not turn away.

We must remember.

We owe it to those who lived and those who died in slavery—to acknowledge that they existed, that they were people deserving of the freedom that was stolen from them. We owe it to those torn from their homes and families, to those who perished on the voyage, chained in the depths of ships.

Yes, these are difficult truths to face.

But while history may not repeat itself, it does rhyme. The only way to prevent the horrors of the past from resurfacing is to teach them, to remember them. In doing so, we honor those who suffered—and, hopefully, we ensure that no one else, now or in the future, endures the same fate.

Also linked to: Sunday Best.