The "To Take .... or Not To Take" Story

It was an ordinary day.  I saw an article in Budget Travel about the nine travel destinations where it is allegedly forbidden to take photos.  I kind of knew about some of the locations, but others I had no idea you couldn't take photos on location.  The following are some photos of the locations.  Wonder how they got the photos?  Me too. It was another extraordinary day in the life of an ordinary guy.

Hey, it's the Amish in Lancaster County, PA.  The Amish hope that you would respect their privacy. They believe any graven image of them will condemn then to a life in Hell.  Many people do take photos of them, but try not to make it obvious.  If you ask them if you can take a photo, they will always tell you no.  

Rosslyn Chapel - The famous stone carvings depict biblical characters and religious events such as the Nativity.    Photos are banned in this location.

The Valley of the Kings - Located in Egypt, it is the location where royalty was buried between the 16th and 11th centuries B.C.  Camera flashes can damage the artifacts and are thus prohibited.

Lenin's Mausoleum - This location which is the tomb of Lenin frowns on photos out of respect for the dead.

The Golden Gai District, Tokyo - This area was at one time the center for post-war prostitution and is not a popular party destination for visitors and bar hoppers.  Signs along the street proclaim no photos.

Bachkovo Monastery - The frescoes in this building were done on wet plaster and can be damaged very easily by flash photography, therefore it is forbidden.

  

Emirates Palace - This is a modern-day hotel where the subject of the photograph and not the photographer is considered the owner of the image.  People have been jailed for disobeying the signs that are posted.

Library of Congress main reading room - This is located in the Thomas Jefferson Building where photos are not allowed.  My guess is that the flash used by most amateur photogs can damage the delicate gold-leafed details of the ceiling.

Taj Mahal - This work of are in India was built as a mausoleum for the wife of a 17th century emperor.  In order to enter the building you must leave your possessions at the door and collect them later.