Bermuda: A Mesmerizing Blend of Beach Bliss and Architectural Elegance

Hamilton, Bermuda

Photography by Lucas Stoffel can be licensed on Shutterstock and Getty Images

Fort George by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Nestled in the North Atlantic's embrace, Bermuda unfurls a stunning tapestry where the azure waves meet a horizon of architectural marvels, each echoing tales of colonial history, pragmatic innovations, and the island's vibrant cultural spirit.

Enchanting Bermuda Beaches and Colonial Echoes in St. George’s

In St. George's, the quaint cobbled lanes lead you through a kaleidoscopic blend of serene beaches like Tobacco Bay and Fort St. Catherine’s historical edifice. While the beach offers vibrant marine life and warm waters, the fort narrates tales of yesteryears with its robust walls and canons.

Recommendation: Don’t miss a leisurely stroll through St. George’s old town, admiring the pastel-hued buildings and their charming limestone roofs.

Colorful Bermuda by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Hamilton: A Cityscape of Contemporary and Classic

Hamilton, while teeming with modern amenities, retains the charm of traditional Bermudian architecture. Amidst contemporary structures, find classic white-roofed, pastel buildings, and after exploring the city, unwind at the nearby Elbow Beach, relishing the soothing sounds of gentle waves.

Gibbs Hill Lighthouse: Views from Above

Not far from the tranquil Church Bay, the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse stands tall, offering a splendid vantage point to drink in views where architectural beauty and natural grandeur seamlessly merge.

Tip: Enjoy a meal at the lighthouse’s restaurant, savoring culinary delights amidst the mesmerizing vistas.

Royal Dockyard by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Royal Naval Dockyard: Maritime Might and Scenic Delight

Discover architectural prowess at the Royal Naval Dockyard, where historic naval structures illustrate Bermuda’s strategic past. Nearby, Snorkel Park Beach invites you to dive into crystal-clear waters, offering a stark, refreshing contrast to the stone walls of the dockyard.

Moon Gates and Seascapes by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Moon Gates and Serenity at John Smith’s Bay

Bermuda’s moon gates, symbolizing luck and happiness, often create picturesque frames for the island's stunning beaches. At John Smith’s Bay, capture memories through these architectural marvels, with the ocean's endless blues in the backdrop.

Tucker's Town by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Unwind at Warwick Long Bay

After marveling at Warwick Long Bay’s pristine landscapes, embark on a journey through nearby historical homes, where the iconic stepped roofs not only collect rainwater but also weave an aesthetic unique to Bermudian dwellings.

Closing Thoughts

Bermuda enthralls with its remarkable synthesis of architectural splendor and coastal beauty. From the historic forts and charming towns to the enchanting beaches, the island beckons travelers to explore and appreciate a world where human artistry and natural magnificence exist in harmonious coexistence. Thus, your journey here becomes a vibrant mosaic of beachy escapades and architectural discoveries, each frame offering a new story, a new marvel, and a moment forever etched in memory.

The Enchanting Historic Allure of Zurich: Top 3 Must-Explore Spots

Zurich, Switzerland

Photography by Lucas Stoffel can be licensed on Shutterstock and Getty Images

Photography by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Nestled amid the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, Zurich gracefully intertwines its rich historical tapestry with a pulsating modern energy, unfolding a spectrum of experiences for travelers to immerse themselves into. From its cobblestone streets whispering tales of the past to the vivacious urban spaces echoing with contemporary zest, Zurich invites you to explore its depth, crafting memories that linger. Let’s delve into a curated journey, discovering the top three must-explore spots in this Swiss marvel.

The Historical Heart: Altstadt (Old Town) Zurich

Meander through the labyrinthine alleyways of Altstadt, where Zurich’s heart beats in a timeless rhythm. As you stroll through the narrow winding streets, the vibrant facades of medieval and renaissance buildings narrate tales of epochs gone by. Amidst the enchanting architecture, discover historical gems like Grossmünster, an emblematic twin-towered church, and St. Peter, home to the largest clock face in Europe. Engage with the charming boutiques, cozy cafés, and inviting bars that dot the lanes, offering a delightful blend of the old and the new. Altstadt, with its rich history and dynamic present, provides a canvas for memories, where every cobblestone and corner is a step back into Zurich’s multifaceted past.

Photography by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

The Oasis of Culture: Zurich’s World-Class Museums Immerse yourself in the riveting world of Zurich’s museums, where art, culture, and history converge in a vibrant kaleidoscope of experiences. Begin with the Kunsthaus Zurich, a haven for art enthusiasts, showcasing a remarkable collection spanning from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. Dive deep into Switzerland's cultural history at the Swiss National Museum, where a myriad of artifacts, from ancient parchments to historical furniture, narrate the nation’s journey. And for those enticed by the unusual, the Museum of Medical History offers a thought-provoking exploration of medical advancements and practices through the ages. Zurich’s museums are not merely spaces to observe but to engage, interact, and connect with the multifaceted narratives of art and history.

The Serene Retreat: Lake Zurich Escape to the tranquil embrace of Lake Zurich, where the shimmering waters gently kiss the city’s edges, providing a serene retreat amidst urban life. Whether you choose to embark on a leisurely cruise, absorbing the breathtaking panoramas of the city and the Alps, or prefer to explore the picturesque villages like Rapperswil, nestled along its banks, Lake Zurich offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling city life. The lakeside, adorned with parks and promenades, invites you for a gentle stroll, while the inviting waters beckon for a summer swim. Lake Zurich is not just a natural wonder but a space to pause, breathe, and bask in moments of tranquil reflection amidst your travels.

Wrapping It Up: Crafting Your Zurich Story

In Zurich, every street, museum, and serene lake view becomes a thread in the tapestry of your travel experiences. As you explore the historical depth of Altstadt, immerse in the cultural richness of its museums, and embrace the tranquility of Lake Zurich, you’re not merely observing but actively weaving yourself into the city’s ongoing narrative. Engage, explore, and let Zurich, with its multifaceted charm, become a chapter in your travel story, etching memories that traverse time and space.

KCRG-TV: Cinderly inspires girls fashion by allowing them to post selfies!

Originally published on KCRG TV - June 20, 2016.

By Allison Kaleta, KCRG-TV9

A Dubuque native is launching a new fashion app Cinderly.

Luke Stoffel developed Cinderly, which is an iPhone app that inspires girls fashion by allowing them to post selfies.

They then can be sorted in different categories, like size or fashion trends. The idea behind it is that other girls using the app will be able to look up different outfit inspirations by searching their own height and weight.

Stoffel talks about his inspiration behind designing the app, "We all wake up in the morning and look into our closets and we have no idea what to wear but wouldn't it be great it we go on our phone, start to see what other girls in our local area are wearing and start to shop and dress like them.”

The app is similar to Instagram, but with a twist. Users can still double tap a picture to tell a poster that they enjoy the outfit. The twist is that users can also super like it by tapping the pictures more times, advancing the likes on the page up to 50 likes.

“Famous people get thousands of likes every day, why can’t people in your community get them for dressing fashionable, too,” Stoffel said.

The app also does not allow bullying. It is a “troll free zone”. If anyone comments in a mean manner, they will be reported and then their account will be deleted. People can download the app July 6.

Download Cinderly's Games Now!