Colors of My Heart

The Royal Opera House, located in Covent Garden, London, is a world-renowned center for opera and ballet. First opened in 1732 and rebuilt in 1858 after devastating fires, it now houses The Royal Opera, The Royal Ballet, and its own orchestra, with a grand auditorium seating approximately 2,256 guests. Following World War II, it became a cornerstone of cultural revival, earning artistic acclaim under the direction of distinguished conductors. Since the 1990s, extensive renovations have added cafés, exhibition spaces, and modern facilities.  In recent years, through digital streaming and educational programs, the venue has welcomed over one million visitors annually. Blending centuries of tradition with innovation, the Royal Opera House stands as a true symbol of London’s cultural heritage. Taken with iPhone 14 Pro Participating in the ranking If you think the content is good, please click and follow. 気に入っていただけましたら応援よろしくお願い致します。 にほんブログ村 にほんブログ村

During a brief return to Japan from the UK, I was waiting on a station platform when this beautiful train pulled in. It instantly reminded me of something every Brit knows well - Harry Potter.  I think people in the UK would be really surprised if they saw a train like this. At first, I wasn’t particularly interested, but thanks to my daughter, I ended up watching all the films. Just like The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings , they offer an incredible and immersive world.  If you haven’t seen them yet, I highly recommend it! Taken with iPhone X Participating in the ranking If you think the content is good, please click and follow. 気に入っていただけましたら応援よろしくお願い致します。 にほんブログ村 にほんブログ村

Bond Street’s festive lights are a true symbol of London in winter. In 2023, the theme was “Crown Jewels,” transforming the entire street into a glittering corridor of regal motifs. Golden and pearl-toned arches illuminated the night sky, with nearly 80,000 LED lights creating a breathtaking spectacle The luxury brands added their own magic. Cartier wrapped its façade in a bold crimson ribbon, turning the boutique into an opulent gift box.   Chanel introduced an iconic N°5 bottle-shaped installation, crafted from recycled materials to highlight sustainability while radiating elegance.  Dior dazzled with a marine-inspired façade, featuring seahorses and coral motifs that evoked a dreamlike underwater world.  Graff, synonymous with exceptional jewels, enhanced the grandeur with lighting that echoed the brilliance of its creations, perfectly complementing the crown-themed arches.  Adding warmth to the glamour, Ralph Lauren’s Giving Tree invited visitors to donate a...

The Christmas decorations on Regent Street in 2023, entitled “Spirits of Christmas”, transformed the city with a canopy of angelic illuminations, creating a dazzling spectacle that symbolized the magic of London’s winter season. The lights were switched on November 9 and continued to shine until early January of the following year. More than fifty grand “spirits” stretched from Regent Street to St James’s, Piccadilly, Jermyn Street, and further to Glasshouse Street and the Quadrant Arcade, enveloping the entire district in a radiant glow. The installation, blending long-standing tradition with contemporary artistry, was widely acclaimed for its beauty and innovation. Special pedestrian-only events were also held, allowing shoppers and visitors to stroll safely along the street, capture photographs against the shimmering angels, and fully immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. Carrying forward a tradition that has endured since 1954, the 2023 illuminations added new breadth and i...

Waltham Abbey Church is a historic church located in Waltham Abbey, Essex, England. The church was originally built in the 11th century as part of the Norman Conquest. Its origins are tied to St. Edward the Confessor, and there is a legend that his remains were once buried here. Notably, the monastery established at this site after his death became an important religious center at the time. Waltham Abbey was also known as a monastery and reached its peak in the 12th century. The monastery held significant influence, attracting many worshippers. However, during the 16th-century English Reformation, King Henry VIII dissolved the monasteries, confiscating their lands and buildings for the Crown. As a result, much of the monastery’s structures fell into ruin. The Waltham Abbey Church that stands today consists of parts reconstructed after the dissolution of the monastery. ​​The church features Gothic-style architecture, particularly notable for its stunning stained glass windows and impres...

Situated in Richmond, southwest London, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kew Gardens is at its most vibrant during the summer season. The Rose Garden, wildflower meadows, and the Waterlily House are in full bloom, while the glasshouses offer stunning displays of tropical plants and water lilies. Visitors can also enjoy the Treetop Walkway, Badger Sett, and Log Trail—unique experiences that allow you to explore the treetops and woodland paths in the pleasant summer climate. The weather is generally comfortable, with long daylight hours that make early morning or late afternoon walks particularly enjoyable. During summer, opening hours are slightly extended. I was a member with an annual pass, but purchasing tickets online is very convenient; of course, tickets can also be bought at the entrance.  As school holidays and weekends tend to be crowded, visiting early on a weekday is ideal for avoiding the crowds and capturing beautiful photographs. The gardens are highly accessible, ens...