Istanbul, Turkey

The so-called New Mosque, once known only for being overpopulated by pigeons, has undergone a face lift and received a little attention from landscape architects. Now, it look more fitting for a world city like Istanbul. [2015]

Istanbul, Turkey

He's a man without a country, a Syrian in Turkey, a refugee from Aleppo. Despite his university degree, his options in Istanbul are limited. So, he is on the street touting travel services provided by a small company jointly owned by a Syrian and a Libyan. Let's hope he eventually gets the chance to live up to his potential. [2015]

Istanbul, Turkey

He and his son are probably not reflecting on the cultural heritage that exists beneath their feet. Just underground are the vast chambers that constitute Istanbul's Byzantine cistern, now a tourist attraction. It was built when the Byzantine Empire was at its height. Chime in if you know what a cistern is. [2015]

Brussels, Belgium

Belgian cuisine brings to mind chocolate, mussels, waffles, and frites, but Belgians eat far more bread than any of their signature foods. And, new Belgians from North Africa seem to fill a critical role in putting bread on everyone's table. Chime in if you know what frites are. [2015]

Brussels, Belgium

It is amazing how something so small can be used so successfully to brand a city. It's nothing more than a corner fountain, but crowds of gawkers are assembled around it every day. Can you guess why? [2015]

Antwerp, Belgium

The verge of spring brings thoughts of new sidewalks and refurbished pedestrian places. Team work makes it all happen on Antwerp's Koningin Elisabethzaal. [2015]

Antwerp, Belgium

It's not hard to imagine how the African lion got is nickname: King of the Beasts. At Zoo Antwerpen no cages enclose the pride. They have a natural savanna environment all their own. [2015]