4. Takins in Thimphu

Thimphu, Bhutan (August 2012)

The strange-looking takins are the national animal of Bhutan. We waited for a long time to see these guys, because it was pouring rain that day, and they were hiding. Takins only exist in the Eastern Himalayas and they belong to the goat-antelope subfamily Caprinae. They're surprisingly peaceful (as is the rest of this incredible Kingdom). For example, no animals are killed for meat in Bhutan, because of the strong Buddhist influence. Caveat: they import meat from India (to supply the carnivorous German tourists... just kidding).

3. Una Sorpresa a Siena

Siena, Italy (May 2012)

What other response can you have when your friend invites you to stay with her in Tuscany? I skipped out on a week of classes to join my best friend of ten years in Italy and Switzerland. We stumbled across a big group of paraders on our way out of Siena and thoroughly absorbed ourselves into the colorful festival.

2. Auckland: the City of Sails

Auckland, New Zealand (August 2012)

Interesting fact of the day: Auckland has more yachts per capita than anywhere else in the world. According to our guide and dear friend Mark, about one in six Aucklanders own a boat, hence the nickname "City of Sails." So doing as the Romans do, we went sailing on a deceivingly beautiful day, only to encounter a storm on the water... Regardless, still one of my favorite cities in the world.

1. Aloha aus Wien

Vienna, Austria (July 2012)

I took this photo for my sister, who is pretty much a Kama'aina in Hawaii at this point. I thought it was hilarious that a random Hawaiian-themed stand, serving neither Austrian nor Hawaiian food, would be in the middle of Vienna.