Tag Archives: Chaput foot prints

Finland

Exploring Helsinki’s Rock Temppeliaukio Church

We went to check out the remarkable Temppeliaukio Church, often referred to as the “Rock Church.”

From the outside, you would not even know it is a church. The whole place is imbedded into a rocky hill.

 As we approached the church, we had no idea what to expect inside.
We went through the main entrance and it was stunning.  The church is carved directly into the solid granite rock.

The rough stone walls rise around the entire church and natural light comes through the skylights in the dome overhead. It was impressive simply seeing the creative way they made the church. The church was completed in 1969 and instead of building on top of the rock, they chose to build within it.

Ray looking at the grooves carved out of the stone for the church.

Apparently one of the most fascinating features of Temppeliaukio Church is its acoustics. The exposed rock walls create exceptional sound quality, making the church a popular venue for concerts as well as religious services.

Covered Granite Alter in front of the natural crevice that makes part of the church walls.

The copper-lined dome was also very impressive, suspended on concrete beams and surrounded by 180 skylights.  It was almost like a flying saucer hovering above us.

Copper dome ceiling supported by concrete beams and skylights
Rock base with Skylights and beams holding the copper dome

We walked around the church looking at the creative ways they imbedded features into the granite, from the church organ to the baptismal font.

Church organ embedded into granite wall
Baptismal Font made with stone and copper

After walking around the main floor of the church we headed up to the second level.  There we sat on one of the pues and just relaxed and took it all in. It was a unique, peaceful and more enjoyable than we expected. 

The “Rock Church” was certainly very unique and interesting to visit and explore.  

”Maailma on pelkkää haarautuvia polkuja.” -Einari Vuorela

Singapore

Exploring the Amazing Singapore Airport

When we were leaving Singapore we intentionally scheduled extra time at the Changi Airport, because we had heard so much about it.

We arrived six hours early and the airport has an early checked bag area. It is there for people who come early to experience the airport. We were able to early check our bags and then we were free to explore. That feature was awesome allowing us to not drag our luggage around as well as not worry about the check in time.

We started exploring and it did not feel like an airport but more like a world-class attraction all on its own.

 There were different gardens each with different themes and walkways.

Ray hidden among the dragonflys
dragonfly gardens in Changi Airport

The main attraction for us was the spectacular Jewel Rain Vortex indoor waterfall. We were walking along in the Jewel area of the airport and turned the corner to see the world’s tallest indoor waterfall.

We stood there and watched the 40 Meter high waterfall plunging  through the center of the Jewel complex. 

All around the falls were gardens and different levels of observation points to enjoy the view. 

After a while the waterfalls slows and turns into a mist before starting over with water. 

The sheer size and beauty of it made for a memorable experience, and we spent quite a while simply taking it all in. It was one of those moments that photos do not do it justice.

After exploring the waterfall, Shelley and I treated ourselves to a wonderful meal at a restaurant with a view of the waterfalls. The food was excellent, and it gave us a chance to relax and enjoy the unique surroundings. It’s not often that dining in an airport it that enjoyable. We then explored other areas of the airport and decided to stop and enjoy a little bit of Canada at Tim Hortons.

What impressed us most was how the Singapore Airport transformed the travel experience. Instead of us rushing or stressed to get to our gate, we could slow down, explore, dine, and enjoy the attractions in the airport.  

“Take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints!” -Chief Seattle

Singapore

Sunset, Wine & Sky High Views in Singapore

After having sushi and asian food for nearly two weeks, we decided to enjoy a more traditional meal. We made a reservations at LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, at the top of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.

View from the grounds of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel.

Even getting to dinner felt like part of the adventure. We explored and walk through the hotel area until we reached the Elevator for the restaurant.  The ride up in the elevator was an experience in itself as we soared the 57 stories to the restaurant high above the city. As the doors opened, we were met with breathtaking panoramic views, there were trees and plants in among the space. It made it feel like we were on a floating garden path.

Shelley and Ray in the viewing area of the Marina Sands Hotel

There was a viewing area before entering the restaurant that people could enjoy if they did not have a restaurant reservation.  We were fortunate to have someone take our photo for us. It overlooked the bay and we could see all the ships in the bay and the Gardens by the Bay Park.

We were greeted by the maitre d’ and we were brought to our table which was on the outside in a stunning exterior section of the restaurant. The views were spectacular and photos do not do them justice. The city skyline stretched across the bay.

The atmosphere was perfect, it was not too hot and very relaxed with soft music in the background.  We ordered our meal and a bottle of Italian wine and took in the moment. It felt somewhat surreal and incredible.  The meal was delicious with fresh pasta, pesto and Italian flavours. A welcome change from so much sushi during our travels through Japan.

The service staff were very friendly and did not make us feel rushed at all. Instead they encouraged us to stay and watch the sunset and water and light show. So we slowly enjoyed our wine throughout the evening, watching the sky change colours as the sun began to set.

The setting itself was unforgettable and it made the entire night feel magical. 

Glow of the sunset from the rooftop of the Marina Bay Sands

Shortly after the sunset, there was a water and light show directly below us in the bay. We watched from the railing as they did an amazing lazer light with music and co-ordinated water fountain  show. It lasted about twenty minutes and was beautiful to watch.

Water and lazer light show

Marina Bay Sands is truly a piece of art. Standing there, surrounded by its incredible architecture and sweeping views,  it was one of those “pinch yourself” moments.  Without question, it was one of the highlights of our travels to Singapore and a memory we will treasure for years to come.

Sometimes travel is about discovering the unfamiliar, and sometimes it is about finding comfort and joy in something timeless and delicious.

”Life is short and the world is wide” – Simon Raven

Japan

Traditional pottery

We went for a unique tour in a small village outside of Uji Kyoto and the highlight was the opportunity to visit a traditional pottery kiln that has been operating for over 200 years. One of unique aspects of the tour was that they have maintained the original kiln system. This way they are preserving techniques and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations. 

Touring the historic kiln itself was quite interesting. It was vey special watching the local Potter trying to explain the processes with very limited english. They used signs to help convey the process. it was touching how passionate they are towards their craft.

We learned that the kiln was built on a hill to allow the heat to naturally rise up through the different compartments of the Kiln. It is fired only once each year, using the same traditional methods that artisans have relied on for centuries. They also have a modern kiln system that they use for day to day operations. 

Bundle of wood used to fire the traditional kiln

Standing inside and learning about the careful preparation and patience required for the firing of the original kiln gave us a real appreciation for the dedication involved in this art form. They carry bundles of wood to the kiln area and it takes hundreds and hundreds of bundles for the process. They remain awake on shifts to complete the firing process.

After the kiln tour, we visited the workshop and store  where we were shown how the pottery is made from start to finish. Watching the craftsmen shape and prepare the clay was fascinating.

Their attention to detail and steady hands reflected years of experience and pride in their work.

Potter dipping each cup into a pain mix for the base of each cup.

They explained how each piece are made and hand painted.

The artist paints each piece freehand and does not use any template making each piece unique.

Artist hand painting pottery pieces

One of the most best part of the day was having the chance to paint our own bowls by hand. Neither of us are professional artists, but that made the experience even more fun.

Shelley painting a piece of pottery.

The entire day was both interesting and enjoyable. Beyond simply seeing pottery, we were able to experience a living tradition and gain insight into the amazing culture and craftsmanship of Japan. 

美しいものにはすべて、不完全さという特徴が備わっている

Japan

Arashiyama Bamboo forest

The morning began with a bus ride to Arashiyama which is located on the western outskirts of Kyoto. It is a historic district known for its natural beauty, mountain scenery, temples, river views, and, of course, the famous Bamboo Grove.

We began with a relaxing walk through the pathways leading to the Bamboo grove. 

It was beautiful seeing the cherry trees in bloom and the lush greenery of the area.


We came to a pond with a brass frog sitting in the centre.

The superstition is that a tossed coin that lands on the Frog will bring you luck. So of course Shelley tried her luck and came close. 

Shelley tossing a coin in the pond

The highlight of our day was walking through the famous bamboo grove. The bamboo trees were spectacular and very impressive. They stretched endlessly into the sky, creaking softly as the wind moved through the stalks.

Even with other visitors around us, there were moments where everything felt surprisingly quiet and peaceful. The air seemed fresh and clean. We later learned that the bamboo groove releases 35% more oxygen than any tree in the world. 

We took our time exploring the pathways, stopping to take photos and simply soak in the moment. Looking up was surreal. the way the bamboo trees seemed to stretch endlessly towards the sky.


It was amazing to learn about the bamboo tree and some of the unique features it has. They are the fastest growing plant in the world. It was hard to believe that they can grow up to  47 inches in only 24 hours.  Apparently each line on the trunk of the bamboo tree represents one days growth. 

A new bamboo shoot reaches its full height in less than a year. and some  bamboo species can grow up to 150 feet.

After walking through the groove and experiencing the beauty of these trees. We wandered through the surrounding town and discovered charming little streets filled with shops, and traditional storefronts. What made the day so special wasn’t just the bamboo forest itself, but the overall atmosphere of the area. Arashiyama felt uniquely Japanese and incredibly peaceful.

“Shinrin-yoku”