Whenever we travel overland I always keep an eye out for what I call "character" doors (or windows or walls), which tell the story of the passage of time. Usually I'll spot these out of the corner of my eye, and it takes a few seconds before the image strikes my brain. Depending on the road and traffic, I may keep on going, but more often than not, I'll pull over and walk back to inspect and photograph my "prize." As we drove from Rio Lagartos on the very northern tip of the Yucatan peninsula to Merida, we passed through this little, non-descript village where I hit the "mother lode"--four unique doors that begged me to stop. This particular door was on an angled short wall facing the intersection of two streets, a perspective I happen to enjoy. 

This doorway in San Cristobal de las Casas, in Chiapas, Mexico, caught my eye. I love the way the deep blues and purples contrast with the warm glow of the exposed wood.  

Barichara, one of Colombia's 17 "heritage" towns, is quickly become gentrified, as residents of nearby Bogota discover its quaint shops and artist galleries, and sample the tastes of its growing culinary scene. More and more Colombians and foreigners alike are opting to stay, buying up land and properties for weekend or full-time living. Nevertheless, with a bit of scouting around, one can still find vestiges of its 400-plus year old history tucked away in hidden corners. I love discovering these "character" doors amid the glitz and glamour of newly crafted residences, and wonder at the stories they could tell.

Although the gentrification of Panama City's Casco Viejo neighborhood is nearly complete, a few remnants have so far escaped developers' eyes. I love the simplicity of scenes like this....just a simple composition amid the chaos and clutter of the city.

Whoever thought drainpipes could be so attractive? Old doors, windows, sure, but a drainpipe? Well, why not? Beauty can be found in surprising places, if you just know where (or how) to look.