Famous Faces on Postcards

One of the most popular genres for postcard collecting and swapping is famous people. Royalty, celebrities, film and television stars and even politicians (yeah, I know).

While it may not be one of my most preferred categories, it is still a thrill to get a card with a famous person. Here is a random selection from the showboxes of noteworthy individuals. How many can you recognise?

Principat d'Andorra: Alpine principality

Andorra is a small, landlocked principality in the eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain. Its political origins date to the Middle Ages, when disputes over the territory led to a 1278 agreement establishing joint rule by the Bishop of Urgell and the French Count of Foix. This co-principality system continues today, with the Bishop of Urgell and the President of France serving as co-princes. For centuries, Andorra remained rural and isolated, relying on farming and livestock. During the 20th century, improved roads, tourism, skiing and duty-free shopping transformed its economy. Andorra adopted a modern constitution in 1993.

From my superstar globe-trotting pal, Ros Freeman. Read her story here

Far Flung: Remote Oceanic Islands

 It's one of those gold medal postcards to get a card from one of the world's most isolated and remote islands. I've been to some and postcard pals have been to others. Here's a very eclectic mix of cards received and sent from these 'Robinson Crusoe'  islands.

Cuba - Viva la Revolution!

Cuba, a Caribbean island nation, was colonized by Spain in 1511 and gained independence in 1903. The 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro established a socialist government, with Cuba becoming a one-party state. Today, Cuba is a unique blend of colonial history, vibrant culture, and resilient people.

Costa Rica - Keen to be green

Costa Rica, a Central American nation, was discovered by Columbus in 1502 and colonised by Spain in 1561. It gained independence in 1821 and became a republic in 1848. Today, Costa Rica is a stable democracy with a strong focus on sustainability and eco-tourism, attracting millions of visitors annually. The country is home to over 5% of the world's biodiversity, with lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and beautiful coastlines. Costa Rica is also a leader in renewable energy and environmental conservation efforts, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Kenya: Colonial Struggle to Vibrant Democracy

Kenya's history spans thousands of years, with ancient human ancestors. Arab and European traders arrived in the 7th century, followed by British colonization (1895-1963). Jomo Kenyatta led independence movement, becoming first president in 1964. Daniel arap Moi's rule (1978-2002) was marked by repression and corruption. Democratization began in 1991, with Mwai Kibaki's presidency (2002-2013) bringing reforms. Uhuru Kenyatta (2013-2022) navigated corruption scandals. Kenya remains East Africa's economic hub, with a growing tech sector and diverse culture.

Poland: Europe's most resilient nation

Poland's history spans over 1,000 years. Founded in 966 AD, it became a powerful kingdom in medieval Europe. Poland-Lithuania (1569-1795) was a major power, but faced partitions by Russia, Prussia, and Austria. Poland regained independence in 1918, but WWII devastated the country. The Soviet-backed government ruled from 1945-1989. Solidarity's peaceful revolution in 1989 led to democracy. Poland joined NATO (1999) and the EU (2004), becoming a thriving democracy and economy.

Rackcards and Freecards: The AvantCard Craze

Rackcards or freecards. You either love 'em or hate 'em. I have a foot in both camps. But stuff like this is hard not to like. From www.avantcard.com.au (retrieved from web.archive.org)

Hungary: Europe's odd man out

Budapest card sent by mum in 2006

In many ways, Hungary is an odd one out in Europe. Its Uralic language has more in common with the languages of Finland and Estonia than its European neighbours. The capital, Budapest, was severely damaged in WWII and remnants of the battle are still evident in secluded pockets of the city.

Italy, Rome and The Vatican

 When you think of Italy and postcards, you're bound to come across Roman ruins and the Colosseum, surely one of the most postcarded sites ever.

Italy and Rome's history spans over 2,500 years. Ancient Rome was founded in 753 BC, growing into a republic (509-27 BC) and then an empire (27 BC-476 AD) that dominated the Mediterranean. 

Adelaide: Postcards from my home town

Everyone has to be born somewhere, and it was here in the leafy 'middle class' Eastern suburbs of Adelaide that became my first home. I grew up in the sheltered, predominantly white, Anglo-Saxon environment of Burnside, attending local schools before deciding that the bright lights of Sydney were more attractive than early 1980s Adelaide. 

Historic Bulgaria: Soviet hangover

Bulgaria probably doesn't feature on many Bucket Lists, but it's a fascinating window into what life was like before the fall of the Soviet Bloc. Bulgaria's population has fallen by around 30 per cent since then, and many buildings are derelict. However if you're a castle chaser, Bulgaria has plenty.

Postcard shop right in the heart of Helsinki

I've always wondered why the Finns were keen on postcards.

They are overrepresented on the postcard exchange site, postcrossing.com and take pride in their choice of cards 

Incredibe India

I've made several trips to India over the years and, as they say in the brochures, it is truly amazing for all sorts of reasons. Numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites make it a 'must-see' destination for true world travellers. I've sent and received numerous colourful cards from India.

Some of my India stories are here

Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)

Micronesia is not somewhere you go every day, but for my globetrotting pal, Ros, it's all part of her plan for world domination.

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is a Pacific island nation comprising four states: Yap, Chuuk, Kosrae, and Pohnpei. With a population of around 113,000, it's known for its diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. The FSM features stunning marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and diverse marine life. The country has a tropical climate and relies heavily on fishing and agriculture. Its capital is Palikir, located on Pohnpei Island. Rich in history, the FSM was a UN Trust Territory administered by the US before gaining independence in 1986. Its scenic beauty and heritage attract tourists worldwide.

Jordan - UNESCO

Jordan, located in the heart of the Middle East, is a country rich in history and culture. Home to ancient sites like Petra and the Dead Sea, it offers diverse landscapes from deserts to fertile valleys.

I visited Jordan in 2013 and wrote this story:
Jordan's Holy Grail 

Tunisia: City of 100 Mosques

Kairouan, Tunisia, is a historic city renowned for its Islamic heritage. Known as the "City of 100 Mosques," it boasts stunning architecture, including the Great Mosque of Kairouan. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a hub for religious pilgrimage, rich in culture, history, and traditional craftsmanship.

Sent to me by my globetrotting pal, Belinda "Belle" Jackson

Egypt - UNESCO overload

Finding postcards in Egypt was not the most difficult part. They, along with all manner of trinkets and bumph were thrust at you at all the temples and sites. Finding stamps and then somewhere to post the cards was next to impossible especially if you were on a tight tour schedule, as I was. The vendors who had stamps were only to happy to inflate the prices by 50-100%. Post boxes were eventually found at the airports.

STORY: Raise a Sail on the Nile

Luxembourg – Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

One of the world's tiny countries, I've never been to Luxembourg but some of my well-travelled friends have and I thank them for these cards.

Qatar, Doha

My first visit to this intriguing country. Tracking down stamps and postcards was quite the task. Coincidently the only post box and vendor I could find was right near the flag you see in this postcard of the Souq Waqif