Post-modern Instagram Picasso or digital Robinsonade
As we all know, a picture is worth a thousand words. However, despite all the visually outstanding tools of the 21st century, I prefer to paint things that I see, feel and experience with letters - my parents taught me that this should stimulate my own imagination. But read, look and decide for yourself.
Groufies, photobombing and hashtags
Holiday time, the best time of the year. If only there wasn't this "I'm looking forward to your Facebook pics" stress. I'm strolling along the beach, sand between my toes and the sun on my face. Suddenly, a cry disturbs the peace and quiet of paradise: "Wow, what's that? Look there, that's amazing. Quick, I need a selfie!" I immediately make my way to the scene, but then it dawns on me: Fu**, I left my camera at home to save space - but no, I didn't want to listen to my inner voice and had to take all the seasons of Lost with me instead. On DVD, of course, as this is the only medium my portable DVD player can play. Sure, streaming, WebTV and all that other modern stuff. But that doesn't interest me. And why Lost of all things? Who knows, maybe I could have used the survival tips. I always like to play it safe.
Items you shouldn't take to a desert island
Post-Its: You shouldn't write anything down, you're on holiday. Memory card: You haven't got your camera with you, remember? Lost: The name says it all (see above). Telephone: the cable of this relic from a bygone era doesn't quite reach the sun lounger. PC: Simply needs too much juice and a travel adapter as complicated as a Rubik's Cube. [[productlist:2484357,5631057,2415311,247656,5338518]]
Location: Trou-aux-Biches (Mauritius), Trou-aux-Biches Beach.
About the first jewel: This photo was taken by chance. I was actually already mentally at dinner. I found myself switching on the TV before dinner and aimlessly flicking through the crappy programmes - and all this with a pleasantly warm outside temperature and the ocean just steps away. Well, today's youth only recognise the benefits of nature when they are posted on Twitter: #luegwieschön. Glistening light flooded into the hotel room and, cursing, I stomped to the blinds before I saw the setting sun. Fantastic! This photo can only begin to show what was actually happening. After all, the Instagram filters did a great job to get as close as possible to the original. Everything was tweaked: colours, brightness, contrast and sharpness.
Location: Celerina (Switzerland), Inn river
Absolutely creepy, this mood. Early in the morning, without even having had breakfast or a shower, I fight my way through the freezing cold at -23, in words "minus twenty-three", degrees Celsius to catch this snapshot. Admittedly, this natural spectacle had already been observed on the previous three days and attracted onlookers from all over the world - like the fesh Madln and warm beer that tend to trigger whole mass migrations to the Oktoberfest. To speak of a unique moment would be foolhardy. And I recommend anyone who has the chance to do so to witness this hustle and bustle. Credits to iPhone Photo editing for finalisation - significantly fewer corrections were necessary here than with the last image.
Location: Honolulu (Hawaii), Diamond Head.
What I would give to be here in this place today. Some things. Hawaii is an absolute must for every globetrotter and travel fanatic. When I first watched the TV series Hawaii Five-0 and was overwhelmed by the colours, I was amazed at the tricks the filmmakers have up their sleeves these days. Until the moment I stood up there myself and enjoyed the view. I didn't want to leave (and psychologically I probably never really got back to 100%). A crater rim, the lava wasteland to the right, the vast sea to the left - these colours and the pure joy of life. Without filters, without anything. Unplugged.
It doesn't have to be gold to shine
What do all these photos have in common? Very, very little. But the basics, which are all the more valuable. Of course, the location has to be right - no pain, no gain. And: beauty is in the eye of the beholder. A great photo can be taken in almost any situation, without the need for big equipment, long exposures or three-metre-long lenses. Respect to those who can call all this their own and have the liquid assets, strength and time to lug all this stuff around. But let's be honest: almost all of you have a smartphone with a camera and you can also download Instagram for free. Peace, out! Wait, there's something missing. Ah yes, that's right, the moral of the story: intended as a how-to-guide, this story quickly got lost in a veritable photo show-off, sorry. Anyway: next time you go on holiday, leave your cameras at home, enjoy the moment and - for all those who have fallen asleep: now it's getting important again - for God's sake, have your mobiles at the ready!
Long-distance travelling essentials
A few concluding lines and recommendations from the travelling almanac: Nothing adds more expression to a photo than music from a stylish speaker. Furthermore, a flash of inspiration for the darkest corners of the world: digitec spoke and there was light (thank you, Obi-Wan Kenobi, for this inspiration). Then a watch as smart as you - the best medicine against chronic "missing the plane". Emergency exit: If real reality becomes too daft for you, put on VR goggles and go. And finally, honour to whom honour is due: I took my pictures with the iPhone 6, hence the explicit mention. [[productlist:3528656,2385928,5618118,5672410,2759344]]
Community, to arms!
You liked it? You know the drill - like, comment and spread the word, #likeforlikes. You didn't like it? For real? Maybe you should read the whole thing again. Still nothing? This is where it gets very challenging, because I'm pretty bad with criticism. Alright, a compromise for your sake:
Post me your most cynical tips & craziest souvenirs for the perfect holiday in the comment box below.
When I'm not stuffing my face with sweets, you'll catch me running around in the gym hall. I’m a passionate floorball player and coach. On rainy days, I tinker with my homebuilt PCs, robots or other gadgets. Music is always my trusted companion. I also enjoy tackling hilly terrain on my road bike and criss-crossing the country on my cross-country skis.