This week’s challenge is My Favourites from 2025. I went back through photos from two of my travel destinations and chose a few favourites. Some may be familiar, but they’re images that still hold meaning for me and bring back moments I loved.
For the South Island of New Zealand, choosing a favourite wasn’t easy. Every photo brings back a sense of space and quiet… mountains, lakes, clouds and roads that seemed to stretch endlessly. Looking back, these images remind me how small I felt in the best possible way, surrounded by nature that was just there, vast and peaceful.
Japan tells a very different story. My favourite images from this trip are filled with contrast … busy streets and quiet corners, modern life alongside deep tradition. From temples that offered moments of calm to everyday scenes full of character, these photos reflect how Japan constantly surprised me, inviting me to really observe.
Wonderful landscapes and cityscapes Teresa
Thanks you Brian. Glad you liked it.
A lovely scapbook of memories.
It really is Margaret. It will stay with me forever.
What a collection, Teresa. You can be proud.
Thanks so much Elke. Great memories for me and Jack. Just happy to be able to share it with you.
So much beauty! It’s overwhelming sometimes. Where next, Teresa? xx
Thanks a lot Jo, much appreciate your comment.
I am going back home to the Philippines since it is my 50th year Homecoming. I will take you with me.
Fabulous! I will be so grateful xx
One picture is more beautiful than the next. So much to see, so little time. 🙂
Thanks a lot. Your comment means a lot.
Your landscapes from New Zealand are stunning and I really enjoyed the images from Japan.
Thanks so much Beth, glad to hear.
Beautiful galleries and juxtaposing them like this emphasises the differences between these two special trips! I’ve been enjoying remembering my own positive impressions of Japan while following your adventures, while your South Island posts put New Zealand firmly back on my travel wishlist 🙂 If only it weren’t so far!
Thanks Sarah. I know about how far New Zealand is… even further out than Australia. Maybe one day you’ll get there.
As part of a longer trip we’re thinking … maybe …
Yes, maybe…
What an amazing dichotomy between serenity and action Teresa! Both sets are wonderful. All the best to you in the New Year.
Many thanks Tina. Glad I chose these two places for my travels this year.
Wonderful selections, Teresa! Happy especially to see South Island pictures – they are all gorgeous. Longing to go there again, but that will never be. Thank you for an amazing post!
Thanks A-C. I know that feeling very well…there are some places that we want to go back to but can’t, If only we can time travel for free.
Great photos. Love New Zealand in particular. 👏
Thanks John. I also so love the peace that NZ gives.
Very nice selection. I like the last New Zealand image best, capturing so many elements of the landscape. The tree really makes it stand out.
Thanks Bob. That is “That Wanaka Tree” a famous photo spot.
So hard Teresa as you had so many lovely ones. The New Zealand photos are outstanding
Thanks a lot Ali. It is not hard to have a good photo there.
Beautiful set of pictures. Makes me want to go back to New Zealand!
It is great to have another go.