When you get the opportunity to get above Tysons, I would take it! Since the skyline is changing so rapidly, you need to capture these slices of time when you can. As can be seen, these were taken 2 years ago, and already there are new additions completed, and occupied. Surely there are more on the way!
On this occasion, an early-morning call gave us the best chance to get some good light on the buildings. From such a high vantage point, we could easily track the light as the sun rose. A light cloud cover bounced some of the early dawn light back below making them highlight the buildings starting from the top. Similarly to my early shoot at the Grand Canyon, I was not as familiar with how the light would act from there. It was my first time at the top of this Capital One tower.
Higher is always better for photos. Although I am not a fan of heights, I enjoy looking back at these images. For one thing, this is a privilege to get access to such a perspective over Tysons. Secondly, these photos can help show off our area in a great light! It is progressing higher with the prospect of being more residential to add to the many businesses already based here. As long as I can stand it, I’ll be up to scale more tall buildings if asked!
Today’s post is a departure from my regular geography as they are from the cities of Avignon and Arles in the south of France. Of course, this was a trip that we took well before our current lock down. I am more thankful for the opportunity now! Prior to leaving for the trip, I was not familiar with the history and geography of this part of France.
Our flight arrived in Marseilles from which we boarded a van that took us to the ship. We boarded the Viking Heimdal in the medieval city of Avignon. This ancient city has many characteristics that come to mind when you think of the Middle Ages. The old city is fortified by a tall stone wall surrounding the interior. From behind the wall you can see towers rising from palaces and churches. In fact, this was the home city to popes that ruled the Catholic Church from here for a time. The landmark closest to the ship was a bridge over the Rhone that no longer spans the river.
The next day, we cruised south to Tarascon. This was the closest that the ship could dock for a tour of to the city of Arles. Although this was a setting for part of the movie, ‘Ronin’ I was not familiar with this amazing city. This is an ancient Roman city complete with an amphitheater like the coliseum in Rome. It changed from an arena, to a fortress protecting the citizens from marauders, back to a bull fighting ring today. It was mind-bending to think that it was built as a gift from the Julius Caesar, the senator before he was emperor, for their support during a conflict.
Arles is also known as a place where Vincent Van Gogh resided and was hospitalized late in life. There are restaurants, and the hospital where you can tour and learn more about the artist and his work create there.
After the tour of Arles, the ship brought us back north to Avignon. On arrival, we were afforded a river view of Avignon in the evening – just stunning! It was an impressive ancient city that leaves an impression.
Since the ship docks close to the city center, I set an early alarm to get up to get some morning photos. I did not venture from the ship and took these from the roof deck. The fog and color from the sunrise set a moody feel to the photo. Cropping out the modern parking lot in front evokes a view of Avignon in ancient times.
Lastly as we left the Avignon area, we took a side excursion to the Pont Du Gard. As can be seen, this is an ancient structure built by Romans to bring water to the city of Nimes. It is the tallest aqueduct bridge from Roman times, and one of the best preserved. It was breathtaking to try to comprehend the feat to create such a structure so long ago. Not to mention, the slight elevation change along the entire route to Nimes that successfully brought water across 31 miles! As can be seen, this area for France is full of photogenic places and I feel incredibly lucky to have had the chance to see Avignon and Arles. Stay tuned to the blog for our next stops!
Presently, the world is adapting to changes to everyday life. With this in mind, these are photos of social distancing changes implemented at Tysons Corner Center during the Covid-19 pandemic. Although we are not yet back to normal, you can visit, walkthrough, and do some shopping. Of course, I have missed my assignments there, so this was an appropriate first assignment back since February!
Social Distancing reminders at Tysons Corner Center
Throughout the center, there are stickers showing a six-foot distance with reminders to stay apart from those who you do not reside. Additionally, there are hand sanitizing stations that are touchless. At their ‘Taking Care’ website, all the policy changes with respect to social distancing are explained so that you can view them prior to visiting.
Tysons Corner Center sign for ‘Taking Care’ during the Covid-19 pandemic
While I was making these photos, I noticed many people taking advantage of the changes. The sanitizing stations were frequently used as people walked through entrances. Also, most shoppers wear masks and keep their distance moving through the large hallways. At this time, I am encouraged. The Tysons community is working together to lessen the effects of the coronavirus so that we can hopefully return to normal.
Drive in Movies
To give the community more of an opportunity to get out of the house, Tysons Corner Center also hosts a series of drive-in movies. Additionally, it is a fund raiser for Second Story. With your donation, you can get in to see the feature with your car tailgate as a seat! Their next show is this Friday, August 14, so visit their site to get their details to start next weekend!
