We went to Morocco some years back,, and had the feeling we were walking back in time. My hunch is that not that much has changed in the ancient towns. There is so much to see, enjoy and photograph. If your tour takes you to Volubilis (near Meknes), you'll see nicely preserved Roman ruins, dating back to the fourth century. Also near Meknes (not too far from Fez and Rabat) are the Royal stables. This is an amazing structure - built by a crazy sultan - designed to house 12,000 horses. Some interesting shots can be taken - play with the light. Take your camera into the souks - with a guide - and ask if you can take pictures of some of the local folks (they'll probably ask for a small gratuity), and you'll have some of the best subject you could want. Enjoy!

I don't have experience in a situation like this, but I must say that this is one of the most informative UHH discussions I have encountered since I have been a member (about six months). Thanks to all the contributors (lots of good info here that applies to more than just this situation), and for the tone of the discussion - positive and helpful.

I'll be there in two weeks - where was this taken?

That is one terrific photo - iPhone 6? Nicely done.

We have lived in ABQ for 13 years, and love the International Balloon Fiesta. As an amateur, I enjoy evolving my skills at this colorful event. The "dawn patrol" is a small cadre of balloon pilots who go up prior to each morning's launch to test the winds and certify that it is safe for flying. They have a look all of their own. Bring all your stuff...there's plenty of time to experiment. When the balloon activity is done for the day, you can head to the Sandia Peak Tramway for some spectacular vistas from a 9,000+ ft. perspective. There's also a very photography friendly zoo and botanical garden, all fairly near Old Town , which is also has some interesting things to shoot. Enjoy!

Better than the circus

As an Albuquerque resident, I echo the sites already noted. The Balloon Fiesta in the first two weeks of October is a must, for all kinds of photo opportunities. I often visit the photo-friendly ABQ Zoo, and the Botanical Gardens. Come enjoy the Land of Enchantment.

International Balloon Fiesta


ABQ Zoo Tiger


ABQ Botanical Garden Orchid

Finally found some time to visit the zoo with my Canon 70D, using the 18-135mm kit lens. I'm pretty please with the results, and would appreciate comments/feedback.

Gorilla my dreams


Koala eats shoots and leaves


Giraffe sticks his neck out


Tiger cools off

We've gone on two Viking cruises, and have found that a lightweight transition camera (I have a Lumix DMC-FZ47) was perfect in terms of balancing weight, extended focal length and portability. Viking is great, and the pace is pretty relaxed, with the shore excursions limited to about 35 people. I also have a Canon 70D, and am considering taking it, along with its 18-135mm lens on an Atlantic leaf-watching cruise this fall. For it, I have a sling bag from Adorama, which also holds an 85mm/1.8 lens for lower light and portraits of fellow travelers.

I've had the Panasonic Lumix FZ-47 for several years, and find it to be the ideal travel camera. I also recently purchased a Canon 70D with a couple of lenses, and love it. However, I'll still take the Lumix along when toting a DSLR and lenses is too cumbersome. Here is a shot taken with the long zoom on the Lumix of pandas in the Beijing Zoo.

Beijing Zoo pandas

(Download)

Rt 290 east of Brenham is a good place to see them. This as taken with my iPhone in April 2014 at Chappel Hill. You can also visit the Blue Bell ice cream plant on your journey - yum!

I just bought a Canon 70D from Adorama with an 18-135mm lens kit. Very pleased with the service, prompt free shipping and such. I talked with one of their reps, which I found to be more helpful than just ordering off the site. You'll love the camera!

Thanks to all who answered by query directly. While some of the other information was interesting, I felt as if the discussion was going down a rabbit hole that had nothing to do with whether or not respondents felt I was making a wise decision. I've got what I needed, and will be buying the 70D kit this week. :)

New to UHH. My original "real" camera was a Canon film body, with kit lenses, after which I bought the Rebel Xs and used it happily for several years. More recently,I have been shooting with a Panasonic Lumix FZ47, which is great for traveling. I travel a lot, and shoot landscapes, people candids, some flower closeups. I have been doing (way too much) reading on what's out there today, and have pretty much settled on upgrading to Canon 70D. Currently, Sam's Club has a kit deal that includes the 70D, with an 18-55 IS STM and 55-250 US USM, and I'm about ready to go for it. What am I missing?

We lived in Sedona for nine years. While it is true that timeshares and heavy tourist traffic have become a nuisance, Sedona remains one of the most picturesque spots in the USA, maybe the world. There are over 50 hiking trails within a few miles of Sedona. Go to the Sedona Chamber of Commerce tourist booth on 89A, and ask for maps of the area. Not to miss: Devils bridge, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock,Boynton Canyon (the best) and Schnebly Hill. Any one of these will give you incredible opportunities for pix, especially with early morning or sunset light. Have fun!