Upland, California, USA

Along the National Old Trails Road in California's Inland Empire stands one of the twelve Madonna of the Trail monuments. They were commissioned by the Daughters of the American Revolution to honor the West's women pioneers.  More inspiring than the statue is the name: 'Madonna' elevates these pioneer women to the status of religious icons. [2013]

Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA

The sculptor says: "Give me a High Four." Geographically Yours says: "Paws and enjoy the art." What else does the sculptor say?  “As a long time great dane owner, I see in these dogs a combination of playful goofiness and regal elegance.” What else does Geographically Yours say? "I see in these dogs a canine with geographic roots:  in Denmark."  [2013]

Madrid, Spain

Something is so funny, the audience is laughing itself off the bleachers. Then, you realize you, the spectator, are the only act on the stage. They're laughing at you. The stage is the central courtyard of the Reina Sofia National Art Centre. [2009]

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico

Our Lady of Guadalupe Church dominates Puerto Vallarta's plaza. Though it was built well after Mexico's independence, it is chock full of imperial symbols: the cross on top of the orb (or is it a soccer ball?) and the large crown held up by angels. You will understand what's going on here if you can answer this question: Who is the King of Kings? [2008]

Mount Simeon, Syria

The family is proud of their goats, but that's about the only option in the vast region west of Aleppo. Millennia of bad land use practices, beginning with the Byzantines, have left behind a scarred landscape bereft of top soil. It's spring, and the nomads are moving. Note the tent. [1996]

Haridwar, India

Hindus converge on Haridwar to pay homage to mother Ganga (as in Ganges River). Many choose to shave their heads as a purification ritual that symbolizes humility and a new beginning. Rows of barbers line the streets of town, and a few get their hair cut as close to the sacred river as they can get. See the milky water behind? [2011]

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

Is that a prehistoric ape on top of what used to be the tallest building in Niagara Falls? Yes, it's King Kong, the ultimate alpha male. But, when the dude in the orange duds looks up, all he can think of is his boss. Anyone else have the same feeling? [2013]