Category: Historical Travel

Have a high time in Albuquerque

Post author By Kellie Paxian
Post date February 19, 2020
2 Comments on Have a high time in Albuquerque

A major highlight in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a hot air balloon ride at daybreak.

But floating through the sky into the sunrise is not all there is to do in Albuquerque, and this city is full of culture and education to provide a well-rounded and enriching experience. Before you fly Albuquerque’s friendly skies, tour the Balloon Museum and learn about balloon flights as they have evolved from 1783 to the ones you will take today.

Here are some other recommended attractions when exploring the gem that is Albuquerque.

Old Town

Visit Old Town, where you step back to the original Spanish Colonial Albuquerque of 1706. San Felipe de Neri Church, circa 1793, stands in the background. There may be Native Americans performing traditional dances around the plaza gazebo. Often indigenous artisans sit along the side and sell handmade jewelry and other crafts. Colorful shops, galleries, and restaurants line the streets where antique cars are parked. Courtyards offer glimpses of silversmiths and other craft shops. Expect to meet a few friendly resident cats guarding their shops.

Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

You can step farther back in history at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Indians from nearby pueblos perform traditional dances and tell stories passed through generations.

In the museum, the exhibits tell stories of New Mexico’s Native Americans from the earliest pictograms to notable modern-day tribal members.

New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Sciences

Want to see prehistoric New Mexico? You can at New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Sciences where you’re greeted out front by Alberta and Spike, their resident dinosaurs. No, they are not real but they are impressive sculptures. The museum tells New Mexico’s story in varied ways, from the first multi-cellular life to the space age. One impressive exhibit deals with climate change — how it’s happening and its results.

Turquoise Museum

If you’re looking to hunt for treasure, visit the Turquoise Museum, which delivers treasure on several levels. Jacob Lowry, museum director and fifth generation of the family business, is a wealth of knowledge about the turquoise gem. The building itself is also a treasure. It looks like a historic German castle but in reality, it was built in 2008 by Gertrude Zachary, a wealthy jeweler, who lived there until her death in 2013.

The museum’s treasure trove consists of some of the rarest and most expensive turquoise stones in the world. The museum is an educational gem also, as you can learn the history of turquoise, how to tell real from fake stones, and the art of cutting turquoise.

Albuquerque Museum of Art and History

The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History offers a mix of the story of Albuquerque as well as painting and sculptures. Naturally, it has traditional art, but there’s so much more than that. From the culture of the Tiwa people who once occupied what is now Albuquerque to the city’s contribution to the atomic age, you will find it all here.

An image of the art exhibition at the Albuquerque Museum. Photo courtesy of the City of Albuquerque (CC 2.0)

National Museum of Nuclear Science and History

When you enter, you’re greeted by “Pioneers of the Atom”: an exhibit showcasing the individuals who influenced the nuclear world. The museum traces the nuclear history from the first splitting of an atom to today’s uses of nuclear power. There’s a replica of operations at Las Alamos and a model of “Fat Man,” the bomb dropped on Nagasaki, Japan.

There’s a children’s section that encourages learning while having fun. Outside, there’s an array of bombs and the planes that dropped them.

BioPark

The BioPark is really three attractions in one: an aquarium, botanical garden, and zoo. The animals that live there range from Mexican gray wolves to Polar bear twin brothers, Kiska and Koluk.

The aquarium offers a look at water-loving species like otters and all types of fish. One of my favorites is the Atlantic Coral Reef Exhibit — such a variety of sea life. The aquarium has a strong emphasis on conservation.

Since I visited in winter, the outdoor plants weren’t at their peak but inside the conservatory, there was a riot of color. Red and orange bromeliads and deep purple orchids bloomed next to interesting cacti with tiny red and yellow blooms.

Pink Flamingos at the Albuquerque Zoo within the BioPark.

Wining, dining, and lodging

If all the sightseeing has made you hungry, you’ve lots of choices. Want down-to-earth cuisine? You can’t beat The Grove, which is committed to supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture. For breakfast or brunch, try the French-style pancakes topped with fresh fruit; for lunch, the Farmers Salad, made with greens, sausage, and goat cheese.

Looking for something unique? El Pinto Restaurant and New Mexican Salsa Company combine a huge dining facility with a packing plant for two of New Mexico’s favorite products: salsa and green chili. El Pinto Restaurant was founded in 1962. Its second-generation owners, twins Jim and John Thomas, have grown it into the largest restaurant in New Mexico. It’s a luscious maze with many rooms and a patio for dining.

Their ribs are named some of the best in New Mexico by the Food Channel. You have to try one of their tequila specials — they are fantastic. This place is very animal-friendly. You may meet one of their resident cats and hear the chickens in the background. They are the only Animal Welfare Approved restaurant in the country with a laying hen program on restaurant property.

Los Poblanos Ranch combines an organic vegetable and lavender farm with a restaurant and inn. The restaurant, CAMPO, has an open kitchen with a flaming grill where you can see your food prepared. The bread and pastries are melt-in-your-mouth-delicious. My suggestion for breakfast is the Farm Breakfast consisting of two eggs, house-made sourdough toast, cracked potatoes with local-grown herbs, and choice of meat.

Wander around the grounds and meet their cats and peacocks. The inn is worth booking a stay. The rooms all have views of lavender fields, gardens, farmland, or the Sandia Mountains. They offer walking farm tours during the warmer months.

If you’re craving a great glass of wine try Casa Rondena, Sheehan Winery, or Lescombes Winery and Bistro. All have their own unique wines and story. Casa Rondena is very upscale; Sheehan is a family-operated up-and-coming winery.

Only Lescombes offers dining options. Jalapeño-Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp is a must-try appetizer. For an entrée, there are many great choices. The chicken is fantastic, but so is the pasta, beef, or pork. Each entrée is paired with a wine.

Another upscale choice is LVL5 at Hotel Chaco. You’re on the fifth-floor rooftop with surrounding windows offering a terrific view of the mountains. My choices: Artisanal Charcuterie & Cheese for an appetizer, Watermelon-Guava BBQ Glazed Chicken Breast with acorn squash, vegetable slaw, and tempura grapes for the entrée. Sunset here is perfection, as is the hotel. Once you step inside, you feel like you are in a modern version of Chaco Canyon. Hotel Chaco is filled with contemporary Native American New Mexican art. Rooms are spacious and comfortable.

All in all, Albuquerque is a destination of the high life.

Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Uncategorized

Far-east in Turkey: Sanliurfa city

Post author By Kellie Paxian
Post date September 11, 2019
1 Comment on Far-east in Turkey: Sanliurfa city

A flood of flat-roofed buildings stands in sharp contrast to the blurry outlines of the distant hills. A chaos of dish TV antennas rules the rooftops. Several minarets of mosques stab the horizon. In southeastern Turkey, just 56 kilometres away from the Syrian border, from the window of my accommodation, I watch the city of Sanliurfa thrive.

Though inhabited since the Stone Age, the city was founded by Seleucus I Nicator in 304 BCE. Throughout history Sanliurfa has been known by various names like Seleucid, Edessa, and most recently, Urfa. Following the Turkish War of Independence, several cities having a great role in the war were honoured with titles. The title of ‘Sanli’ meaning ‘glorious’ preceded Urfa.

I reminisce my entry into Sanliurfa. The rolling hills covered with green pistachio farms had merged with the plains, when the city erupted with concrete buildings, partitioned by lanes, curling away in various directions. I passed by a set of unkempt caves. “They are more than 2,000 years old,” said my guide, but it no more surprised me, for I had visited Gobeklitepe.

The birth of religion in Gobeklitepe

Barely 19 kilometres away from the city of Sanliurfa is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gobeklitepe. It was excavated in 1994 by German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt. Surrounded by a modern ramp, in the ditch of a plateau, under the shade of a contemporary roof system, stand ancient T-shaped stone pillars. Arranged in circular patterns, these pillars are bedecked with effigies of wild animals. At the centre of such a pillar ring, rest the two largest T-shaped pillars, weighing ten tons each.

The usual history lessons teach that humans first developed agricultural settlements, and then delved into religion. The discovery of Gobeklitepe, whose construction predates farming, turns the known theory upside down. Experts believe Gobeklitepe is the world’s first temple, the breeding ground of the concept of religion. Some interpret the T-shaped pillars as stylized humans and the wild animals as representations of groups. Others believe Gobeklitepe was a burial site and the wild animals protected the dead. Managing such a massive project would have required huge manpower — this proves that a leading class and a following class had already emerged by then.

Gobeklitepe handles a daily footfall of around 1,500 people per day, with the number rising on the weekends. Visited mostly by Turkish nationals followed by Germans and Americans, Gobeklitepe is yet to be discovered by the wider international tourist community.

Balikli Gol Lake and the caves of Prophet Abraham

All ancient cities of the world come with their unique legends and Sanliurfa is no exception. Religious scholars identify Sanliurfa city with Ur of the Chaldees, a city in the Hebrew Bible — birthplace of the Prophet Abraham. According to the legend, astrologers informed King Nimrod that a male baby would soon be born who would be responsible for crumbling Nimrod’s power. Terrified by the prophecy, Nimrod tasked Terah, his most trusted servant, with killing all the male babies that would be born in the future. While Terah followed his orders and slaughtered the male babies, he saved his newborn son, Abraham, by hiding him in a cave.

Years later, the polytheist king Nimrod tried to kill the monotheist Abraham by throwing him into a fire. But by Allah’s grace, the fire turned into water and the logs fuelling it became fish. This is the story behind the sacred Balikli Gol lake, which is now thronged by Muslim pilgrims and tourists.

The clear sheet of water in the lake is perturbed by schools of fish, who are considered sacred. Excited tourists, mostly domestic, buy fish food and feed the fish. Families frolic in the well-manicured gardens. The ancient Urfa castle built during the Osroene period overlooks the lake. A five minutes’ walk through the park brings me to Mevid-i-Halil Cave, the revered cave where Prophet Abraham was born and reared by a gazelle. Religious men and women pray here in separate quarters of the cave.

In the melody of Sira Night

Gulping down a glass full of cherry juice, I pass through the nearby Ziyaettin Akbulut Bazaar, a market bubbling with energy. Colourful fabrics, carpets, nuts and spices distract me from time to time. I am in a hurry, on my way to catch the buzz of Sira Night live.

An assembly of people has been arranged in Sanliurfa by community leaders as a platform to discuss social issues and address problems since many years ago. This gathering gradually metamorphosed into light-hearted meetings where the young sat alongside the experienced, who taught them a skill or two. Music culture has been harboured in Sanliurfa from the time of Christianity, when the inhabitants sang hymns and poems — this culture found its way into these meetings. Food, particularly cigkofte (raw minced meat mixed with spices), also occupied a place of importance in the congregations. ‘Sira gececi’ is a Turkish phrase which translates to ‘nights by turns’ in English, referring to the fact that these gatherings are hosted in turns by different members of the group.

Musical notes swell and ebb in Cevahir Han, an inn that hosted caravanserai of traders on the silk route, now modified into a restaurant. Inside, men decked in traditional costumes sing songs, play instruments and tap their feet in a slow dance. As l marvel the indoor fountain, kebabs pile on my plate, as it does on the platters of the others. Sira gececi has evolved with Sanliurfa.

With the last musical note of the performers, my day and night in Sanliurfa come to an end.

Historical Travel

The Rise of Dark Tourism

Chernobyl disaster is a popular dark tourism attraction.

Have you ever wondered what draws people to the morbid places associated with suffering or death? Auschwitz, Ground Zero, and Chernobyl come to mind.

In the case of the latter, a recent miniseries about the nuclear power plant disaster has seen the number of visitors to Chernobyl almost double over the past twelve months. The Auschwitz concentration camp is now the most visited attraction in Poland, while more than ten million people have set foot inside the 9/11 Memorial Museum since it opened at Ground Zero in New York.

Dark Tourism, the name for tourism focused on traveling to a destination associated with death or suffering, is extremely popular. There has always been some taboo attached to dark tourism and there was often a sense of shame attached to visiting these harrowing places. People are suspect that there is enjoyment from such dark suffering.

And there are differences in the types of dark tourism: some like Auschwitz educate visitors about terrible historical events in the hope of preventing them from reoccurring. Others, exploit the misery of people living through terrible events and cash in on the fact that some visitors get a thrill out of the experience.

Finding Truth and Making Peace with Dark Tourism

So why might people want to visit these terrible places at all?

In a recent interview, criminologist Dr. Scott Bonn told Inside Edition that dark stories, places and events trigger the most primal instincts in humans. What’s more, people desperately want to know what separates them from these murderers and heinous events.

For example, high above a valley near Quenetria, tourists can visit a viewpoint that looks down over one of the most infamous battlegrounds in Syria. Believe it or not, many tour groups include this viewpoint on an itinerary that also includes cherry markets, wineries, and craft chocolate shops.

More than 400,000 people have died during the war in Syria and half the population has been uprooted and forced to leave the country.

When asked about the motive behind this stop, a tour guide and ex-Defense Force colonel who was working for the Syrian army that was responsible for the brutality said that people “want to feel a part of it. They can stand on the border and see a real-life battleground.”

It’s a similar scene on the West Bank in Israel where many tourists come to see the divide between Israeli forces and the Palestinian people. Of course, the West Bank is home to the birth town of Jesus Christ and many other attractions such as Jericho – the oldest city in the world.

But make no mistake; people come to feel the tension and witness the border.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular destinations for dark tourism around the world:

Auschwitz (Poland)

Auschwitz concentration camp consisted of more than forty extermination camps that were built by the Nazis. As most people know, millions died during the Holocaust and these camps have been used as a museum to expose the suffering and brutality that occurred here. Many visitors take more than one day to explore the grounds, given the size of Auschwitz and nearby Birkenau.

Tuol Sleng Prison (Cambodia)

Also known as S-21 Prison, Tuol Sleng in Phnom Penh was a place of torture and brutal suffering during the reign of the Khmer Rouge. Inside the prison, you can visit the rooms where innocent locals were tortured and learn about the dark times of the 1970s in Cambodia. While often compared to Auschwitz, the conditions in S-21 are somewhat different and walking the corridors of this infamous prison is nothing less than harrowing.

Suicide Forest (Japan)

Known as “Aokigahara,” this infamous forest is the location for many suicides in Japan. In 2013, 105 people went there to kill themselves, which eclipsed the previous record of 78. It’s a highly sensitive place to visit or talk about but for many visitors, the suicide forest is at the top of their list of destinations when they visit Japan.

Photo of the Aokigahara suicide forest courtesy of Creative Commons.

La Catedral (Columbia)

For many decades, Pablo Escobar was the biggest drug lord on the planet and responsible for the incredible rise of cocaine in the western world. You can now take an “Escobar Tour” of his home city in Medellin and visit “La Catedral” – the prison where he was held captive with his family. This prison was equipped with a jacuzzi, bar, and host of personal bodyguards. We will never see the likes of Pablo Escobar again, but you can still set foot in his less-than-humble abode.

West Belfast (Northern Ireland)

Many people are confused about the political situation behind “the troubles” in Northern Ireland. Although incredibly complex, tourists can explore the issues that have created a clear divide between the people in Northern Ireland, half of whom identify as British unionists and the other half as Irish loyalists.

You can see this in West Belfast where an immense wall divides two conflicting communities. And you can take a “Black Taxi Tour,” which takes visitors into both sides of the community to hear the terrible stories and events behind this infamous area.

Black Taxi offering tours in West Belfast. Photo courtesy of Creative Commons.

Chernobyl and Pripyat (Ukraine)

The Chernobyl disaster refers to a botched test in a nuclear plant that sent clouds of nuclear energy across Europe. Surrounding this plant, you will now find a post-apocalyptic landscape and an entire city, called Pripyat, in which stray animals roam and forgotten dolls are left lying in the street. Incredibly, you can take a tour of the area and even stay overnight – at your own risk.

Why We Humans are Obsessed with Dark Tourism

Dark tourism is on the rise and similar trends can be seen in other areas of the mainstream. In addition to the HBO series about Chernobyl, Netflix hosts shows on dark topics like the “Making a Murderer” and “The Ted Bundy Tapes,” two of the network’s most popular shows. Meanwhile, Sarah Koenig’s investigation of a murder in “Serial” is the fastest podcast to exceed five million downloads.

Criminologists say we are curious about our primal instincts and intrigued by the bizarre. At one time, we also feared that monster beneath the bed and when it comes to other heinous people and places, we want to know what separates us from the darkness in this beautiful world.

red-sea.sharm-el-sheikh-luliya — red sea.sharm-el-sheikh-luliya

Tags Dark Tourism

Art and Architectural Travel Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

Walking in the footsteps of Elizabeth I

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date December 15, 2016
No Comments on Walking in the footsteps of Elizabeth I

Elizabeth I remains one of the most popular English monarchs more than 400 years after her death. So much about this first woman to reign England in her own right intrigues and captivates us. The daughter of boisterous Henry VIII and his infamous second wife, Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth learned early how to cope with tragedy and trouble. Some impressive historical sites remain from the popular Tudor era that allow you to walk in her royal footsteps. It goes without saying that your tour should include stops at the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey, but other locations have special connections to Elizabeth.

Hatfield House

The ground where Hatfield House stands today once was the location of Hatfield Palace, which served as Elizabeth I’s childhood home. During those turbulent years when her father, Henry VIII, had a difficult time determining which of his children he would consider legitimate and which wife he was married to, Elizabeth was tutored in the subjects expected of young princesses at Hatfield Palace. Today, the building does not remain, but some of the gardens are just as they were in the mid-16th century when Elizabeth walked among the flowers and sat reading beneath the trees. An oak tree at Hatfield House is the alleged place Elizabeth was standing when she was informed that she was Queen of England.

Kenilworth Castle

Beginning as a Norman tower in the early 12th century, Kenilworth Castle has been through many phases of construction, siege, and rebuilding. During Elizabeth’s lifetime, it was a property of Robert Dudley, the man many expected young Elizabeth to marry. Dudley, the Earl of Leicester, never did marry the famous Virgin Queen, but he did extensive renovations at Kenilworth to make it a worthy stop for Elizabeth and her court while on progress. Like many elaborate properties, Kenilworth did not survive the English Civil War of the 17th century. The ruins that remain today are a memorial to another age surrounded by recreated medieval gardens that mirror those that Elizabeth would have strolled with her beloved Robert.

Bath Abbey

The history of Bath Abbey goes back much further even than Elizabeth. As the site of King Edgar’s crowning in 973, this site has been a home of worship for centuries. One of the many victims of Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries, Bath Abbey was almost completely destroyed when Elizabeth undertook its reconstruction. The current location is a functioning church, so you may attend services in the building commissioned by Good Queen Bess.

Tags British Monarchy, England, Historical Sites, Royal family, Royals, Visit Britian

Archaelogogical Tourism Culture and Heritage Europe Historical Travel Middle East Uncategorized

Kayakoy – Turkey’s ghost town

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date October 31, 2016
No Comments on Kayakoy – Turkey’s ghost town

In the South West of Turkey sits a popular ghost town. The Kayakoy OR Rock Village, lies just a short distance from the crowded and famous beaches and resorts in the Fethiye. Populated with Greek-styled architecture the town was occupted by Muslim and Christian communities who coexisted peacefully until the early 1920’s. During that time Muslims farmed the land and the Christian community were skilled artisans and but both communities were closely linked and co-dependent on the others skills. The Kayakoy was largely

abandoned after the Greco-Turkish War after the population exchange agreement in 1923, which was signed by Greek and Turkish Government. The hillside village was further destroyed in 1957, by a massive 7.1 earthquake that shook the valley and destroyed most of the structures. Houses that were not destroyed were left untouched and remain today.

Today, the Kayakoy village has been preserved as a museum village and tourists can view the skeletons of the buildings in Kayakoy. Although the remaining structures have no rooftops, doors or walls it is easy to imagine the history and the peaceful ives that the villagers had during its and churches with no rooftops but it is easy to imagine the happy and peaceful life’s of the villagers during its peak. The kayakoy village is called as the symbol of “Peace and Harmony”. It shows the delicacy of harmony between the cultures.

The Kayakoy ghost town is rich in history and a wonderful display of 19th century society.

Cover photo courtesy of Sarah Murray, CreativeCommons.

Tags Christian Tourism, Historical Sites, Muslim Tourism, Turkey

Central and South America Historical Travel Uncategorized

ZAÑA – the Peruvian ghost town that still lives

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date October 31, 2016
No Comments on ZAÑA – the Peruvian ghost town that still lives

From the 15th century Incan citadel Machu Picchu, to the Cathedral of Lima, Peru is a wealth of captivating history and culture.

One of the places that shares a bit of both is the Peruvian city of Zaña. Now a ghost of its former glorious self, travelers make their way there to relive the events that led to its downfall, through the tales of local guides willing to share. From greatness to a major fall, Zaña’s story is one of opulence and loss.

San Agustin. Zana, Peru — San Agustin photo taken by Jonhatan Acevedo

Founded in 1536, Zaña was the haunt of choice for Spanish high society following the trail of affluence that emanated from the city. It was a hot spot for gold and silver mines and as the center for trade and agricultural, quickly became one of the major hubs, and wealthiest cities in the region.

To help support this growing market, slaves were brought in great numbers from Africa, and as such the population grew at rapid pace. People were happy, money was flowing, and the rich just got richer until, the pirates came.

The pirate raids of the 1680s changed the course of Zaña’s history. Slave owners—the wealthy—fearing the death and destruction that came with the raids, left everything in the care of their slaves in favor of escaping to Trujillo. Following the raids, the Africans took a stand and made the town their own, rebuilding from the ground up, and engaging in their pagan rituals and ceremonies, much to the distaste of the Spanish settlers that remained.

It wasn’t long before Zaña was labeled “the naughty city” by the Spanish who frowned on the African cultures that were unfamiliar to them, and by extension considered immoral and obscene.

Many years passed and life in the city went on until 1720, when El Niño torrential rains caused unprecedented flooding, which led to the city’s destruction once again. Still, Zaña lived on driven by the determination of freed slaves, long after the Spanish left.

Travel to this historically fascinating city, indulge in the story, and take in the once grand cloisters of La Mered, San Agustín, Matriz, and San Francisco, now all in ruins, much like the city itself.

Tags Peru, Zana

Historical Travel North America Uncategorized

Cuttyhunk: History and small-town tranquility near Cape Cod

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date September 25, 2016
No Comments on Cuttyhunk: History and small-town tranquility near Cape Cod

For a great summer vacation in a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere, look no further than Cuttyhunk.

A mere two hours from Boston, Cuttyhunk island is one of Cape Cod’s Elizabeth Islands, and the one out of the sixteen that is not owned by the Forbes family.

Just off the coast of Massachusetts, visitors flock to the Cape yearly and remote locations like Cuttyhunk are perfect for the traveler that wants to get away from it all. Getting there isn’t a hassle either, as all that’s required is a $25 USD ferry ride to the Elizabeth Islands, and you can opt for a water taxi for around the same price to get to Cuttyhunk.

While on Cuttyhunk, a Yankee version of Mayberry comes to mind. There are approximately 52 full-time residents in the area and 130 houses in town, municipal buildings including a historical society and museum, a one-room schoolhouse, Union Methodist Church, library, and town hall. Playing up on this aesthetic is the fact that gardens seem straight out of a storybook, as pink and cornflower blue hydrangeas abound.

The explorer in you will love the island’s historic side as there are abandoned bunkers from the Second World War, where military denizens searched for Nazi submarines off the coast.

You might be saying, that’s all well and good, a lovely small town setting right on the banks of the Atlantic, “but where will I stay?” That’s as easy as getting a reasonably priced fresh lobster meal on the island.

The Fishing Club has eight guest rooms with white clapboard exterior and weather-beaten shutters that add to the overall authentic feel of the place, and an Avalon mansion in town has rooms for rent as well. With limited lodging available, many of the 300 to 500 visitors to the island in summer alone, stay in their boats when it’s time to rest. If you choose club for lodging, you’ll be pleased to meet innkeeper Bonnie, who’s as handy as she is friendly. On the walls is an ode to the presidents like William Howard Taft, Grover Cleveland, and Teddy Roosevelt, as well as tycoons like JD Gould, who financed the original Cuttyhunk lodge.

Lobster dinner on Cuttyhunk — Photo: Sailn1

Enjoy your travels to Cuttyhunk, wake up to fresh sea air, sit down to a hearty breakfast at the club, take in the island’s rustic seaside charm, and catch a lobster or two for dinner. Whatever you choose, this is a laidback kind of vacation that you won’t soon forget.

Tags Cape Cod, Cuttyhunk, Elizabeth Islands

Culture and Heritage Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

Visit the World of the Romanovs

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date May 4, 2015
No Comments on Visit the World of the Romanovs

The Romanov family was infamously and brutally murdered by the Bolsheviks at the end of World War I. Czar Nicholas II, his wife, and their five children were executed to make way for the new ruling hierarchy under the communist leadership of Vladimir Lenin. The Romanov dynasty had just celebrated their 300th anniversary as the ruling family in Russia five years before the family was exterminated. Theories and hopes of surviving Romanov family members flourished for decades after the murder of the royal family. With the use of modern technology, there now remains little doubt that all seven family members were in fact killed on that fateful night in 1918. However, many astounding historical sites remain that allow the traveler to visit the royal world of the Russian Romanovs.

Tsarskoye Selo

An ornate room inside Catherine’s Palace. Photo: Harvey Barrison

Once home to Czar Nicholas’ family and many generations of Romanovs before them, Tsarskoye Selo remains in all its majesty as a preserved step into the past. Various displays and museum rooms honor Russia’s history, including six rooms that are permanently dedicated to the story of the Romanovs. This sprawling estate was built in the early 18th century, and it soon became known as Tsarskoye Selo, which means the Tsar’s village. It would remain a royal estate until the October Revolution of 1917 when the Romanov family was taken captive. It has been a public site since then and is wonderfully maintained and displayed.

Alexander Palace

Alexander Palace in St. Petersburg was the last home of the Romanov family, where they lived as a close-knit family and welcomed guests and ambassadors. Due to recent renovations, the estate has recaptured its former glory and once again looks like a house of royalty. With renovations complete, Alexander Palace is open to visitors. You can see where the Romanovs lived like a typical family, tour the reconstructed living areas, and imagine their life before being taken into exile.

Peter and Paul Fortress

Dating back to the early 1700s, the Peter and Paul Fortress is a site rich with Romanov history. Originally built by Peter the Great, this fortress includes the burial ground for Romanovs from Peter himself through Alexander III. In the center of the fortress, visitors are drawn to the soaring Peter and Paul Cathedral that towers above the fortress buildings surrounding it. Also on site is the City History Museum where visitors can learn about the various events and uses of this location over its more than 300 year history.

Tags Alexander Palace, Catherine the Great, Czars, Romanovs, Royal family, Russia, Saint Petersburg, St Petersburg

Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Music North America Uncategorized

Kansas City – More than just a Sleepy Mid-Western City

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date April 17, 2015
No Comments on Kansas City – More than just a Sleepy Mid-Western City

Kansas City, founded in 1838 (the Missouri side), is a city that has a full and rich history for being in the mellow Mid-West region of the United States. On a walk through the city you will hear stories about trappers, Indian tribes, Civil War, Mobsters, Jazz, and so much more. So, let’s begin a virtual walk down the history of the Kansas City Metropolitan area. On the way, you will even discover some must-see places in this vibrant city.

The Frenchmen Connection

Sacajawea, Lewis and Clark statue. Photo: Nathan Borror

The first person to explore the area was a Frenchman on the run from authorities in the early 1700’s. His name was Étienne de Veniard, Sieur de Bourgmont and his wife was Native American. Bourgmont fled to the area that will become Kansas City after abandoning his command post at Fort Detroit following an Indian attack. He documented his travels on the Missouri and Platte rivers in North America and made the first European maps of these areas.

Perhaps not French, but explorers nonetheless, Lewis and Clark’s famous expedition had a hand in the settling of the future Kansas City after they stayed three days in the area. They reported how perfect it would be for a fort. Word got back to the U.S. government and soon the area’s first official settlement was established in 1808 – Fort Osage. The Fort was used to protect the US claim of the Louisiana purchase against the French and Spanish. It also served as a trading post with the Osage Tribe. Parts of the Fort still stands and is available to view.

Mormons, City Incorporated, Civil War, and Jessie James – Oh My!

The Kansas City area had an explosion of events from the 1800’s to the early 1900’s. The city became official when it was incorporated in 1853. The founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, Joseph Smith III, established the Mormon headquarters within the recently established Metropolitan area of the city (Independence, MO). At the time, Missouri was considered a slave state, but never succeeded from the union. Kansas City was in constant turmoil during the civil war due to the mix of abolitionists and pro-slavery settlers from the south. It was also during this time that the famous outlaw Jesse James moved between several hideouts in the area. His robberies became so infamous that today there is a plaque on a bank marking the first daylight bank robbery led by Jesse James.

The Days of Prohibition, Mobsters, and Jazz

Jazz Trumpeter Stan Kessler. Photo: Ed Schipul

Although there was a national prohibition against liquor, Kansas City, MO never seemed to notice. Big city officials with their federal prosecutors on payroll saw that the bars and taverns stayed open with a constant flow of libations. This also meant that Kansas City was the perfect place for mob families to move their underground liquor shipments around. They were less likely to be noticed or stopped. Unfortunately, there was plenty of mob violence in the city as well. One particular bloody event was the Union Street Massacre where the infamous gangster Frank Nash and four FBI agents were killed in a gun battle. There is a guided tour where visitors can learn all about this event and see the place it happened – there are even still bullet holes in Union Station.

On the upside, Kansas City Jazz was born and rivaled that of the New Orleans style. This soulful music poured out of many hot sports throughout the city. Kansas City’s Jazz scene birthed the jam sessions of today where musicians gather after a gig and play freely together. They did so all over the city and one such place was the Mutual Musicians Foundation and is still open today to visitors. In all, Kansas City will capture your imagination with the many museums, tours, and hot spots – not to mention the bevvy of eateries and of course, the famous Kansas City Bar-B-Que joints. Many have come to the city as tourists, but returned as permanent residents. There is just something that draws you in and stays in your mind an in your heart.

Tags Kansas City, Missouri

Culture and Heritage Family Travel Historical Travel Inspiration Middle East Religious and Spiritual Travel Travel Tips Travelog: Our Personal Travels Uncategorized

Places in Jerusalem where Easter comes alive

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date April 5, 2015
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Easter Sunday is the most joyous day in the Christian calendar. The day marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ who died on the cross at Calvary as a sign of love for all people so that they can also be resurrected from sin.

On a recent trip to Israel we had the pleasure of visiting numerous sites throughout the country that really brought the Bible to life for us. In Jerusalem, we visited several places that were poignant reminders of the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. To say that we felt God’s presence and experienced powerful biblical history is an understatement. In celebration of this important holiday we are pleased to share just a few reflections from our lens. Happy Easter and Passover.

Mount Scopus overlooking Jerusalem — We enjoyed a panoramic view of Jerusalem as we stood on Mount Scopus overlooking the Mount of Olives. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

Garden of Gethsemane and Church of All Nations — We reflected on Judas’ betrayal and Jesus’s last night with his disciples at the Garden of Gethsemane. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

As we walked the 1-mile length of the Via Dolorosa (Way of the Cross) through the Old City of Jerusalem, we thought about the phyical challenge that Jesus felt as he carried the cross along the hilly terrain to his death on Calvary.

id=”attachment_11186″ align=”alignleft” caption=”There are 14 Stations of the Cross that depict images of Jesus carrying the cross. This 6th Station identifies a Jerusalem woman who wiped the face of Jesus. The cloth she used reportedly took up the image of Jesus. The Greek translation of this event is called Vera Icon, meaning ‘true image’, thus the woman becomes known as Veronica. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick”

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, also known as the Church of the Resurrection or Church of Anastasis, is considered to be the holiest church in the world because it is the place where Jesus died on Calvary and tomb where He was resurrected. The Church, which is located in the Christian side of the Old City, contains the last few Stations of the Cross, the Calvary (Golgotha) Altar, the Stone of Anointing, the Aedicule that holds the Holy Sepulchre and the Tomb.

id=”attachment_11186″ align=”alignleft” caption=”Calvary (Golgotha) altar. Visitors can feel the hole where the cross was erected. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick”

id=”attachment_11186″ align=”alignleft” caption=”A mosaic depiction of Christ’s body being prepared after his death, opposite the Stone of Anointing. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick”

id=”attachment_11186″ align=”alignleft” caption=”Visitors kneel down to kiss the Stone of Anointing. This is where Jesus’ body is said to have been anointed before burial. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick”

id=”attachment_11186″ align=”alignleft” caption=”The Aedicule. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick”

For Christians, traveling along the Via Dolorosa and visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre are high points on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Experiencing biblical history during our travels through the Old City and New Jerusalem is one of the most transformative travel experiences we have had. Certainly, our visit was reminder that Easter is much more than chocolate bunnies and colored eggs.

Tags Bible, Easter, Israel, Jerusalem, Jesus, Resurrection, Stations of the Cross, Via Dolorosa

Culture and Heritage Europe Events and Festivals Historical Travel Uncategorized

Medieval Festival of Souvigny, France takes you back in time

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date April 2, 2015
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Wandering this unbelievable and fascinating planet, people often overlook the true meaning of travel and only see the places they visit with their eyes and not their soul. There are destinations that are mostly unknown to the grand majority of people, but that offer the most amazing experiences of a lifetime. Some of these places are located in France and one of them in particular is worth seeing at least once in a lifetime–Souvigny.

The small town of Souvigny is located in the middle of France, in the region of Bourbonnais. Today just a small provincial town, Souvigny once was very influential during medieval times, when it was the capital and residence of the House of Bourbon that birthed the kings and queens of France. With an exceptional medieval architecture and a Benedictine Abbey that still hovers magnificently over the town, this forms an interesting destination in the heart of France. But the true highlight of Souvigny is the medieval fair and festival that is held each year in the central square of the town. The inhabitants have made an association specifically with the purpose of organizing the festival and together with volunteers, they put together a charming medieval event that attracts thousands of people from near and far. Along the few medieval streets in the town merchants, musicians, actors, jugglers, fire breathers, animal tamers, knights and dames walk in a charming event that brings the medieval experience into the 21st century.

Knights are battling it out at the Festival.

The festival of Souvigny offers the unique opportunity to enjoy medieval concerts and shows, theatre and knight jousting, medieval craftsmen creating masterpieces and an authentic medieval meal inside a huge tavern. Apart from the entertainment itself, people can also visit the landmarks of the town, including the impressive abbey that holds the tombs of the Duke of Bourbon, as well as other medieval buildings. The festival of Souvigny starts each year around the end of July and usually lasts for 9 days, giving tourists the unique chance to discover how it used to be in the France of several hundred years ago.

Tags France, Medieval Festival

Art and Architectural Travel Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Middle East Uncategorized

Exploring the Ancient City of Ephesus

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date March 26, 2015
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Discovering the past and experiencing amazing places that bear the marks of the ancients is one of the most exciting and rewarding travel activities. There are few things more interesting than walking the streets of history or entering the same monuments that our ancestors built and lived in thousands of years ago. One place where history has been preserved is Ephesus. Ephesus is one of the most famous ancient cities around the Aegean Sea. It is located in the territory of modern Turkey, about 20 km away from the holiday resort of Kusadasi and about 5 km away from the sea. Ephesus can be easily accessed from all Turkish main towns and it is a charming destination along the Turkish coast.

In ancient times, the city of Ephesus was one of the greatest Greek settlements on the Ionian coast. It obtained incredible wealth and much influence as a seaport city. Some of its most beautiful and historically relevant monuments and attractions can still be admired. Legend says that Androclos, the son of the king of Athens, was searching for a good place to establish a new colony. The oracles predicted that a fish and a boar will show him the place for his new colony. As it happened, the place where Androclos killed a boar was the location chosen for the new Ephesus. This happened over 2 millennia ago and through the ages, many have ruled over the city, from Greeks and Persians to Romans and Seljuks. The city became a model for Turkey’s culture and art and has remained one of the most famous cities of the ancient world.

Today, Ephesus still bears the marks of its former glory, although many of its wonders still lie undiscovered. The most famous monument of the city used to be the Temple of Artemis–one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Ephesus is also famous as one of the seven churches of Asia because while several Christian Councils where held there. There are surely many wonders to be discovered in Ephesus and a visit of the ancient settlement is a unique experience, walking around magnificent monuments. The most interesting and impressive attractions of the site include the Library of Celsus, the Basilica of St. John, the Gate of Augustus, the Odeon, the Temple of Hadrian, the Temple of Domitian, the Theater, the Fountain of Pollio and many others. The site of Ephesus is considered the biggest and most important of Roman origin in the eastern Mediterranean and experts say that only about 15% of the vestiges have been uncovered. One could only imagine the magnificence of the city in ancient times.

Tags Historical Sites, Turkey

Archaelogogical Tourism Culture and Heritage Historical Travel International Travel Middle East Religious and Spiritual Travel Uncategorized

Walk where Jesus walked

For Christians, few travel opportunities are as meaningful as the chance to visit Israel and follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Even those who do not consider themselves Christians can enjoy the ancient history and stories behind these moving sites.

Jerusalem

Within the city of Jerusalem are many sites that relate to the life of Jesus, especially those where events occurred during the final week of his earthly life.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

This church stands on the ground that is believed to be the crucifixion site and his burial tomb. Construction on the church began in AD 326, and it is a beautiful place to meditate upon the suffering and death of the Savior. A rock outcropping stands within the interior of the church that is believed to be the spot where the cross stood as Jesus died.

Mount of Olives

The Mount of Olives is an important location in Bible history with the Garden of Gethsemane at its base. Walk where Jesus walked and prayed for the strength to endure his upcoming trials. Pray in the place where the apostles fell asleep waiting. An ancient olive grove contains trees that could be over 1,000 years old, though it is unlikely that they are those Christ touched since the Romans burnt the grove in AD 70.

Nazareth

Modern Nazareth would be unrecognizable to those who lived in it as a small town during Jesus’ time. The sprawling city now boasts over 60,000 inhabitants, and it can be difficult to connect it to the modest boyhood home of Jesus. As the location where Jesus spent his childhood and young adult life learning to be a carpenter, the sweeping views available in the countryside near Nazareth remain similar to those he would have enjoyed. Visitors can see the cliffs that synagogue members threatened to throw Jesus from when he preached that he was the Messiah.

Galilee

No other location is mentioned more in the Bible than the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus preached, drove out demons, and challenged his apostles to walk on water. Measuring approximately 90 square miles, this body of water is surrounded by traditional sites of the calling of the apostles, Jesus’ third post resurrection appearance, and the feeding of the 5,000. Walk through these historic sites before watching a spectacular sunset over the water. Close by is Cana, where Jesus performed his first miracle, turning water into wine. (We tasted the wine during our visit there. It was very sweet.)

Tags Galilee, Jerusalem, Jesus, Mount of Olives, Nazareth, Religious Relics, Religious Travel

Art and Architectural Travel Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

Visit the World of King Richard III

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date March 19, 2015
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Whether you are a historian who has long been fascinated by the controversy surrounding Richard III’s life and death or someone who has been intrigued by the recent developments regarding his remains, an exciting tour of medieval England can help you learn more. Little of the English countryside looks as it did during Richard’s short reign (1483-1485), but there are some excellent locations that do remain. Commemorate the dynasty of Richard III by walking in his royal footsteps.

Middleham Castle

Richard spent much of his youth at Middleham Castle learning how to be a nobleman of the 15th century. He was trained by the infamous Earl of Warwick, Richard Neville, who is also known as the Kingmaker. Richard later inherited this castle himself and lived there with his wife, Warwick’s daughter Anne and their son, Edward. It is possible to envision Richard surveying the area from the walls of Middleham’s ruins. Render your opinion of the provocative statue of Richard III that stands in the bailey.

City of York

The city of York was more supportive of Richard during his 26 month reign than any other region. The city walls incorporate many gatehouses, including the Monk Bar. The Richard III Museum resides in the uppermost room of the Monk Bar, which Richard himself had built. Was he the murderous villain portrayed by Thomas More and Shakespeare? See the evidence and decide for yourself.

Tower of London

No tour of medieval England would be complete without visiting the Tower of London. Staunch Ricardians may be offended by the plaque definitively declaring Richard the murderer of his nephews, Edward V and his young brother, Richard the Duke of York. While some questions about Richard III have been answered by the Leicester dig, the fate of the Princes in the Tower remains a mystery. The Tower has been a part England’s history since the Norman Conquest, serving as royal residence, torture chamber, and zoo.

Bosworth Field

Walk the ground where Richard III’s reign came to an end as he cried, “Treason! Treason!” before he was cut down by Henry Tudor’s personal guards. If you travel to Bosworth Field near August 22nd, you can witness the reenactment of the battle that resulted in the end of the Plantagenet Dynasty. The grassy fields seem so calm, but you can almost glimpse apparitions gliding there in memory of the historical event.

Tags England, History, Richard III

Archaelogogical Tourism Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Middle East Uncategorized

Jordan – a country that offers something for everybody

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date March 3, 2015
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Many myths have surrounded the country of Jordan and has feuled the country’s fame–the rule of King Hussein, wars in Middle East and the country’s historical relationship with like Israel, Syria and Iran. Jordan is described as an “open-air museum” and tourists interested in history and mystery flock to the country to uncover its secrets. Jordan is “unknown” is some ways so many are intrigued to discover new territory and a unique culture.

Jordan boasts world famous sites, many that are in offbeat locations that can only be reached on foot or donkey. But by whatever means necessary it takes to tour Jordan, the journey will be well rewarded. A tour of Jordan would be incomplete without visiting the Rose City of Petra. The fact that it is one of current Seven Wonders of the World does nothing to explain the charm of this place. Rich in archeological treasures, is one of the most memorable attractions in the world. Another historical attraction that is a “must see” is the Baptism Site. The site is steeped in history as it is the place where Jesus Christ was baptized.

Jordan also offers some exotic experiences like a glimpse into the Bedouin culture. Feynan, which is situated in the midst of Wadi Araba desert, allows a chance to interact with local Bedouins and even share a cup of coffee with them. The lodges are lit by candles so at night the stars are alive and very visible in the sky. For Bedouins, stargazing or talking long walks in the quiet wilderness are favorite pasttimes. Not many places in the world offer such experience!

Is there any person who has not heard about Lawrence of Arabia? The famous figures headquarters at Azraq castle is open to visitors. Castles are common in Jordan but there are a few that deserve special mention, the Shobak Castle being one of them. View desert landscape at its best in Wadi Rum Desert. A sandy desert with pastel shades and natural rock formations- it offers the perfect backdrop to take selfies! For a visit to the sea, a visit to Aqaba is Jordan’s gateway to the Red Sea. The numerous beach resorts in Aqaba are popular for water sports such as windsurfing and scuba diving. The Dead Sea is also nearby for a floating experience.

Jordan has its own unique cuisine. Hummus and falafel are popular now throughout the world but having them in a local restaurant is a treat that you should never miss. Khobez is a large, and flat bread that forms the staple diet. It is delicious when freshly baked. The national dish of the country is mansaf which is a complete platter that will leave you wanting more. Do taste it. Jordan is unique because no matter what’s your choice, you will find something to relish about it. Be its historical locations or desert or lifestyle or food- you will find yourself mesmerized and wanting to come back for more.

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Art and Architectural Travel Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

Discovering the Republic of Georgia

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date March 1, 2015
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There are some parts of the world that are still virtually unknown to the wide mass of travelers and the tourism industry is yet to break through their veil of authenticity and mystery. Somewhere in the Caucasus Mountains, between Russia, Turkey and the Black Sea, a rather small country has more to offer than first meets the eye, with one of the richest historical heritages in the region, a wealth of fascinating things to see and experience, a veritable original heaven for those that are looking for magical places–The Republic of Georgia.

The Bridge of Peace unites the old and modern parts of Tbilisi. Photo: George Mel

The Republic of Georgia is a former Soviet Union state, although it has its own unique history, culture and individuality, different from other nations in the region. Even the Georgian language is completely different from neighboring countries, being a veritable battlefield for world powers and empires through the centuries. Despite all these, the Georgian people managed to maintain their authentic culture and identity. The territory of Georgia has been inhabited for millennia and there are magnificent historical traces all over the country. Some of Georgia’s historical lineage include it’s legacy of wine producing–the oldest in the world. Georgia was also the second country to adopt Christianity right from the 1st century.

The town of Mtskheta. Photo: Andrzej Wojtowicz

Traveling through Georgia, there are few words which can describe its immense beauty, combining the high mountain peaks with beautiful beaches along the Black Sea shores, ancient and medieval fortresses, as well as charming cities and authentic villages. The unique and tantalizing Georgian cuisine and the incredible sense of hospitality of its people to all these, makes Georgia one of the most enticing travel destinations. Describing all of these natural marvels and hidden cultural treasures in this small country would take a full-time tourist guide, but there are some places that should not missed during a trip to the Republic of Georgia including the capital of Tbilisi–a very charming city that dates back as far as the 5th century. Although destroyed and affected by wars and other disasters, Tbilisi is still a wonderful place with a beautiful historical centre and unique atmosphere. The main attraction comes from walking around the old town area, admiring the winding narrow streets and the old houses around charming courtyards. Tbilisi also offers other attractions including old churches, interesting museums and other monuments. The rest of the country is equally, if not even more appealing, with the ancient city of Kutaisi, the enticing Kakheti Wineries, Mount Kazbeg and its unbelievable Tsminda Sameba monastery, the highlands of Upper Svaneti, the historical and religious town of Mtskheta are just a few examples. Then there is also the fascinating culture of Georgia, with traditional cuisine, dances, songs, festivals and everything in between that provide hundreds of reasons to visit.

Tags Black Sea, Caucasus Mountains, Georgia, Russia, Tblisi, Turkey

Adventure and Outdoor Travel Asia Culture and Heritage Historical Travel International Travel Uncategorized

Backpacking South East Asia оn аn Adventurous Route

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 12, 2015
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The South East Asian region, еsресіаllу the countries of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos – has bесоmе increasingly popular with travelers seeking adventure. But travelers to that region are often faced with a travel dilemma—which route to take.

If a traveler wants to experience each of the aforementioned countries for a few days at a time, they would need at least three months to make a journey. The suggested route below is made for those long-term travelers.

In addition to walking, other transportation options that are readily available include public buses, trains, and boats. These modes of transportation are often full of their own adventures because where else can you travel with a busload of chicken or box of frogs? Of course, a traveler can find other more comfortable travel options too.

Vendor on the floating market in Thailand. — Vendor on the floating market in Bangkok, Thailand.

Start in Bangkok

Many people thаt intend оn dоіng а circuit thоugh South East Asia will fly іntо Bangkok sіnсе іt іs а major hub. Bangkok іs аlsо rich wіth markets, temples, аnd plenty оf fabulous food. Аrоund Bangkok, thеrе аrе sеvеrаl options fоr sоmе side trips whісh allow уоu tо gеt уоur feet wet. Kanchanaburi іs а fеw hours аwау аnd іs thе location оf thе infamous bridge оvеr thе River Kwai аnd thе Death Railway, thе Erewan National Park, аnd thе Three Pagodas Pass nеаr thе Myanmar border. Іf уоu аrе nоt going tо thе southern islands, but wouldn’t mind checking оut thе beach scene, уоu соuld аlsо tаkе а fеw days аnd visit Ko Samet оr Ko Chang (lеss expensive) tо gеt а taste оf island life. Воth аrе оnlу а fеw hours frоm Bangkok bу bus.

Once you’ve explored Bangkok you can make уоur wау north tо Chiang Mai. Travel by train is a favorite and you can travel overnight or by day in order to see the beautiful countryside.

Chiang Mai іs a bit lеss hectic thаn Bangkok and it offers some beautiful scenery. There’s also a great cooking school! Chiang Mai offers a convenient way to explore some of Thailand’s smaller towns. The public bus travels in a loop to the wonderful village Pai whісh іs set іn misty valleys thаt аrе laden wіth lush rice paddies. From there you can continue by bus or a boat to Mae Hong Son and then return back to Chiang Mai by bus.

Into Laos

Frоm Chiang Mai, continue уоur journey north tо Chiang Rai аnd then tо Chiang Khong. This is where you’ll cross thе Mekong River by boat аnd enter your second country, Laos, оn thе opposite bank аt Huay Xai. You can continue оn tо Luang Prabang bу slow boat оr fast boat (lаttеr nоt recommended, unlеss уоu have а crash helmet), making аn optional overnight stay іn thе rustic village оf Pacbeng.

After spending а fеw days іn Luang Prabang уоu соuld dо а side trip to the small northern villages оf Laos fоr а fеw days, оr journey south tо thе chilled-out town оf Vang Vieng bу bus оr air. Note: Тhе road tо Vang Vieng іs sоmеtіmеs thе target оf bandits, sо bе surе tо monitor recent news in the region. Air travel is also available but there’s been questions raised about the air safety records.

Vang Vieng offers kayaking, biking аnd caving opportunities, sо you’ll wаnt tо plan fоr а fеw days thеrе bеfоrе moving оn tо thе capital city оf Vientiane. Іt doesn’t sееm tоо exciting fоr а capital city, sо it isn’t recommended that you spend tоо muсh time thеrе, оthеr thаn tо visit thе strange, but interesting Buddha Park.

Explore Vietnam

Take thе bus frоm Vientiane tо Hanoi vіа thе mountains аnd thе Cau Treo border crossing іntо Vietnam. Hanoi іs а vеrу interesting place wіth lots tо dо аnd аlsо offers а fеw interesting side trips: Sapa іs а beautiful village set іn thе mountains, аnd Halong Bay, а UNESCO Wоrld Heritage site, offers amazing views оf thousands оf mountainous karsts jutting uр frоm thе ocean waters.

In Hanoi, you can buy аn “Open Tour” bus ticket that will take you south tо Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). The route has regular stops along the way but you can purchase an add-on for $2 that will allow you to hop on-hop off. Two towns worth stopping in are Ninh Binh аnd Dalat. In fact, Ninh Binh is a gateway to thе Cuc Phuong National Park.

From Ninh Binh you can move tо Hue fоr а day оr twо and then on to Hoi Аn tо seeing thе amazing tailors аnd beaches. If you’re seeking a party then move to the beach town of Nha Trang for a day before stopping in the mountain town of Dalat. Frоm Dalat, уоu саn dо аnоthеr add-on stор іn Mui Ne for some quiet relaxation or a shop in the local market.

Once you leave Dalat or Mui Ne you can make your way to Ho Chi Minh. There are a diverse offering of activities and you can even get а massage аt thе Vietnamese Traditional Medicine Institute fоr а few dollars.

Crossing into Cambodia

From Ho Chi Minh you’ll be able to cross іntо Cambodia а couple of different ways. Т hе fіrst іs а bus ride thrоugh sоmе beautiful country tо Phnom Penh, аnd thе second іs а boat tour thrоugh thе Mekong Delta whісh аlsо lands уоu іn Phnom Penh. Note: thе roads іn Cambodia аrе dirty, bumpy аnd vеrу slow going, but thе scenery іs incredible іf уоur backside саn tаkе it.

Phnom Penh gеts mixed reviews but dоеs hаvе а couple оf must visits bеfоrе уоu continue: thе Killing Fields аnd S-21. Whеn уоu dо move оn, уоu аgаіn hаvе thе choice оf bus оr boat uр tо Siem Riep to enjoy Angkor Wat – the largest religious monument in the world. The bus is preferred bесаusе оf thе fantastic views аnd thе insight іntо thе lives оf thе country folk.

Return to Bangkok

After spending time enjoying thе awesome ruins оf Angkor Wat, you can fly or board a bus back to your staring point of Bangkok. If you take the bus you’ll be able to see Poipet. You’ll notice a dramatic change as you cross frоm thе poverty оf Cambodia іntо developing Thailand.

This route саn bе dоnе іn 3 months іf уоu don’t choose еvеrу side trip mentioned (tо dо іt аll you’ll wаnt tо add аnоthеr couple оf weeks). Іf уоu work іt оut, you’ll find уоu саn spend а fеw nights іn еасh place, but dоn’t mаkе thе mistake оf creating sоmе sort оf concrete itinerary. Јust bе aware оf уоur time, bесаusе уоu will wаnt tо spend lots оf time іn sоmе places, whіlе spending lіttlе іn оthеrs аnd уоu rеаllу won’t knоw whісh untіl уоu gеt thеrе. Ве flexible wіthіn reason, аnd remember: іt’s аll аbоut hаvіng fun!

Once bасk іn Bangkok, уоu nоw hаvе thе option tо work уоur wау south tо thе islands, аnd реrhарs, onward tо оthеr countries lіkе Malaysia аnd Indonesia, оr реrhарs thеу will hаvе tо wait untіl уоur nехt trip, аnd уеs, уоu will wаnt tо соmе bасk.

Additional article of interest:

Cycling in Malaysia: Cool Routes To Escape The City Heat

Tags Angkor Wat, Backpack tips, Bangkok, Cambodia, Chang Mai, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam

Adventure and Outdoor Travel Beach and Water Sports Historical Travel North America Uncategorized

Exploring Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores from Cedar Point to beyond

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date July 6, 2014
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Cedar Point from Lake Erie. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

Mixing the exquisite location on the shores of Lake Erie–its pleasant beaches and unforgettable sunsets–with the thrill of exciting family oriented theme parks and a touch of fascinating American history, Sandusky, Ohio is one of the best places to visit in the United States. Established at the beginning of the 19th century, the small town of Sandusky had an important role in the history of the United States—a history that the area keeps alive. Today, Sandusky is considered one of the best places to visit and live in the country. Beyond the famous Cedar Point amusement park, Sandusky offers a rich history experience.

The city played a key role in protecting fugitive slaves traveling through the Underground Railroad when slaves traveled by ship and ferry across Lake Erie into Canada. Throughout Sandusky visitors can still experience a glimpse of that history. The historical downtown area also contains several interesting landmarks, including original buildings from the 19th century, made from locally produced limestone. Visitors can also pay a visit to the Aviation Museum and Maritime Museum that features

Master Commander Oliver Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial on Put-in-Bay. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

collections about the rich marine history behind Sandusky Bay. Sandusky also boasts the Merry-Go Round Museum which presents exhibits about the charming history of carousels.

Sandusky is best known for the famous Cedar Point Amusement Park, one of the biggest in the world and known as the “rollercoaster capital” (and a personal favorite of the World Footprints family). Cedar Point features some of the fastest, tallest and most innovative coasters in the world, but the park also has rides for everyone, even the kiddies. There are also other leisure theme and water parks in and around Sandusky, including African Safari Wildlife Safari, Ghostly Manor, Soak City Water Park and more.

World’s Longest Bar on Put-in-Bay. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick

Apart from all these, travelers can also explore the nearby area of Sandusky, with a large range of possible activities, from boating and fishing on Lake Erie to visiting the nearby islands and see places like the Marblehead Lighthouse, the Civil War Cemetery, Kelleys Island or Put-In-Bay, the area’s party island that boasts the BEST lobster bisque in the world. (Really! People come from all over the world just for the lobster bisque.) we’ve ever had. For people that just need to relax, the nicest beaches on the Lake Erie shores are located in the Sandusky area and the sunset rivals what you’d see on the West Coast or elsewhere.

Tags Amusement Parks, Aviation Museum, Cedar Point, Civil War Sites, Lake Erie, Maritime Museum, Ohio, Put-in-Bay, rollercoasters, Sandusky

Culture and Heritage Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

Top 5 reasons to visit Belgrade

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date July 5, 2014
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While most peole arriving in Europe to see the magnificent tourist destinations located on the continent choose to visit the most famous capitals of the West, there are some destination, rather unknown to the tourism industry, that have the potential and impress and intrigue. One of these places is the capital of Serbia, Belgrade, a city with a rich history that spans almost two millennia. There are countless reasons to visit the city, but here are the most important ones:

1. Charming architecture – While most tourists would not expect this, Belgrade features amazing landmarks that exhibit various charming architectural styles, coming from its long history. The city has everything, from imposing royal palaces and luxurious mansions to intricate orthodox cathedrals and churches, and from ancient fortresses to modern buildings.

2. Interesting Museums – Belgrade has its own share of diverse museums, presenting the history and lifestyle of an entire nation. Tourists can choose from countless destinations, including the National Museum, the History Museum, Ethnographic Museum, the Military Museum, the Nikola Tesla Museum and many others. These amazing museums make Belgrade one of the greatest destinations in South-Eastern Europe.

3. The Kalemegdan Fortress – This impressive fortification located at the tip of the peninsula where the rivers Danube and Sava meet used to be an important military fortress in medieval times. Today, it is one of the most charming parks in the world. Among the walls and ruins there are trees and flowers today, with people strolling and relaxing on the benches. It is also a romantic destination within Belgrade.

4. Unique atmosphere – While the city is still Eastern through its core, Belgrade has a charming Mediterranean and Western vibe to it, with elegant pedestrian streets, wide boulevards with fashion shops, small pubs and bars on the side streets, fancy restaurants and a lively cultural scene. One of the most attractive areas of the city is the Skadarlija Street, a small cobblestone alley filled with bohemian restaurants and craftsmen shops, where people can truly feel the unique atmosphere of the city.

5. Traditional cuisine – While visiting the most popular and famous tourist destinations in Europe, it is sometimes difficult to find restaurants where one can still try the traditional cuisine of that destination. In Belgrade, these are everywhere and anyone can sample the unique delicious Serbian. There are also some charming restaurants along the Danube that have tasty fish specialties.

Tags Belgrade, Fortress, Serbia

Caribbean and Atlantic Historical Travel Uncategorized

Discovering small treasures on St. Vincent

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date June 22, 2014
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Fisherman pulling in their catch on St. Vincent. Photo (c) Tonya Fitzpatrick.

On the grand scheme of world travel, the small island of Saint Vincent can be easily overlooked because of more developed islands or more convenient travel options. One could argue that this area of the world is a place that should be left alone so as to not be affected by mass tourism. However, it would be a shame to keep this beautiful paradise a secret and not share it with the world. Saint Vincent, part of the Grenadine Islands, is a veritable oasis of authenticity and exoticism. The small Caribbean nation is more than a pretty face. There are also fascinating historical attractions, many of them going back to the colonial age.

A historical tour of Saint Vincent can uncover a handful of unexpected marvels, starting with the capital of Kingstown, a charming town dating back to colonial times, with picturesque stone houses, archways and cobblestone streets, brought to life by the colorful weekly market. Just a leap north of Kingstown, travelers can discover the impressive Fort Charlotte, perched atop a hill and offering unforgettable panoramas of the capital and the Grenadines to the south.

A view from Fort Charlotte on the island of St. Vincent.

The fort is over 200 years old, built to house about 600 soldiers and equipped with strong cannons that some still remain today. Named after the wife of King George III, visitors should also explore the officers quarter in order to admire some interesting paintings about the history of the Black Caribs.

The old history of St. Vincent can be uncovered by visiting the small village of Layou, an authentic destination in itself, it is surrounded by a rocky landscape, dotted with mysterious carvings of most probably Amerindian origin. However, the Layou Petroglyph Park are still intriguing signs of the old habitants of the island. Back in the capital of Kingstown, the remnants of the past, starting with the first settlers and passing through the British and French colonization and including the African and East Indian influences are displayed inside the National Trust Museum. Still inside the city, the small St. Mary Catholic Cathedral and the St. George Anglican Church are dated two centuries ago and could be considered as historical attractions. Closely, the Black Point Historic and Recreation Park features the Jasper Rock Tunnel, dug by Caribbean and African slaves through solid volcanic rock. Throughout the island of Saint Vincent, there are other artifacts and heritage sites coming from the old Amerindian groups or from more recent colonial ages and a historical tour of the island is well worth the experience, greatly augmented by the unbelievable natural beauty of the place.

Tags Grenadines, Saint Vincent, St Vincent

Africa Art and Architectural Travel Culinary Travel Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Uncategorized

The Glory of Marrakesh

From breathtaking palaces to ancient tombs, a visit to Marrakesh is a Moroccan dream vacation for any traveler.

Located at the crossroads of what were once North African caravan routes in the High Atlas Mountains foothills, this is a city of glorious beauty and significance. As it is a major Moroccan commercial center, the 1.5 million citizens seamlessly bring the modern world to their ancient surroundings, and are known to be tourist-friendly and helpful.

Discover Moroccan traditional markets known as souks, which showcase specific crafts—pottery, jewelry, textiles—and how they are created. Marrakesh has the largest souk in the country, and you can also stay a while and join the auction for produced items in the late afternoon.

Medina is the old side of Marrakesh and travel there must include visits to Dar Si Said—museum featuring Moroccan arts and folk crafts, Dar Tiskiwin, a museum and townhouse showcasing Dutch expatriate Bert Flint’s collection of Moroccan wonders, and of course the Koutoubia mosque, a novel place surrounded by rose gardens.

Though being in Marrakesh is a wonder in itself, prepare to be awed by the incredible El Badi Palace, and Bahia Palace. Of all Marrakesh’s palaces these two are the most famous, and are truly architectural triumphs.

Marrakesh’s relaxed atmosphere draws visitors in, and you may never want to leave. With historical attractions including the Saadian Tombs which date back to the 16th century and the time of the renowned sultan Ahmad I al-Mansur, the city is a breath of fresh air for all history, museum, and culture buffs.

As it is close to the Sahara, adventurers can take the long way to Marrakesh, where you trek through the desert before arriving at your amazing destination, viewing other interesting historical sites along the way. This is just one of the many ways travel there is possible.

So, while Marrakesh became more prominent on the world stage following Casablanca, the classic movie is not its only claim to fame. Don’t miss out on all this unique city has to offer, visit Marrakesh and be blown away.

Tags Marrakesh, Morocco, North Africa

Culture and Heritage Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

Live the History in Romania’s Sighisoara Fortress

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date March 25, 2014
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One of the last inhabited medieval fortresses of Europe lies in a small Romanian town, deep into the wonderful land of Transylvania, a land of legends and myths. Unknown to many tourists, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most interesting attractions of Romania, with a history that goes back for centuries and a cultural heritage far beyond its small size. The small Romanian town of Sighisoara is home to one of the best preserved medieval fortresses of the area and even Europe, with gates and towers that tell the story of a magnificent medieval stronghold. A fascinating historical fact about Sighisoara is that Vlad Tepes, the historical character behind the fictional character of Count Dracula, has been born in this small town. Today, there is a hotel and a restaurant bearing the name of Dracula and it a truly amazing experience.

Apart from all these, the old town was first founded by German colonists over 700 years ago. Along the years, it became an important strategic point with a vivid commercial life. Considered by many one of the most beautiful fortresses in Europe, Sighisoara offers plenty of things to see and discover, beginning with its 9 medieval towers, each one representing one of the guilds of the town. The most impressive of them all is the Clock Tower, also representing the main gate into the old town. Sighisoara Fortress is set on the slopes of a hill, with the traditional tall and colorful houses following the winding cobble streets up and down the hill. Among its most interesting landmarks, we can include the Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of St. Mary, the City Hall and other charming smaller monuments. But overall, the charm of the town comes from the preserved medieval atmosphere.

For tourists that wish to visit this amazing architectural and historical treasure, there are several good accommodation options within the city, the big advantage being the one can visit everything on foot, leaving right from the hotel. Among the best accommodation choices, we can recommend Wagner House, Cavaler Hotel, Korona Hotel and other guesthouses, hostels and private houses. While traveling to Romania, it would be a shame not to try the traditional food and drinks, with some delicious local specialties that can be tasted at the Vlad Dracul House Restaurant, Ferdinand House Restaurant and others. Finally, for a truly rewarding and amazing experience, tourist can visit the two during the yearly medieval festival, taking place at the end of July, when the whole fortress is filled with medieval costumes, music and crafts.

Tags History, Romania

Art and Architectural Travel Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

Bucharest offers a great Budget holiday

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date March 7, 2014
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So you want to travel to Bucharest, but a little worried about costs? Don’t be.

There are numerous activities to experience and sights to enjoy without having to break the bank. First of all, most attractions are within walking distance from the city’s center, so if you have no issues with hitting the pavement, you’re good to go. For those who may prefer other means, there are options for you too, as for a couple euros you can hop a subway or train to get to your destination, or take a cheap tram or bus. For the latter two options, tickets must be bought in advance.

Now that you’ve got the logistics out of the way for a low cost, it’s onto finding places to go that aren’t pricey.

Village Museum’s charge is less than two euros, and features the lives of average Romanians throughout history, giving real insight into their mindsets. There are real homes and replicas that span centuries, and anyone who’s a fan of history, anthropology, or just interested in other cultures, will absolutely love this experience.

For just a few euros, you can also visit and have a guided tour of the Palace of the Parliament. Parts of the building are always opened to the public, and it is an architectural masterpiece that has over one thousand rooms. This makes it the second-largest administrative building in the world, after The Pentagon in the USA. When the communist government led the majority of Eurasia east of Berlin, the building’s original purpose was to be their crowning achievement. However, with the Soviet Union’s fall, it was quickly repurposed.

Another place you simply shouldn’t pass up when visiting Bucharest, is Revolution Square. It is one of the city’s premiere destinations, as it is the site where Ceausescu delivered his last speech, and where revolutionary violence initially began. Why else shouldn’t you miss out? Well, it’s absolutely free to visit and always open to the public.

There’s absolutely no reason why money should hinder your trip to the aptly dubbed, “Little Paris,” where rich history and culture merge with stunning beauty, and the result is a wonderful, must-see city.

Tags Bucharest, Romania

Art and Architectural Travel Culture and Heritage Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

The City of Bath – a Georgian Masterpiece

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 18, 2014
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The City of Bath in the United Kingdom is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath attracts millions of history and architecture enthusiasts from around the world

Located in Somerset, England, the city of Bath boasts a long and fascinating history.

Bath dates back to a pre-Roman era. The first written records identify a spa called Aquae Sulis (or, ‘the waters of Sulis’) that was founded by the Romans in AD 43. Roman baths quickly flourished in Bath but the city also became known for its wool industry throughout the years.

The striking Georgian architecture and natural spas are attractive features for the four million tourists who journey to Bath. Many travelers come for a day visit while others stay a few days to soak up (no pun) the charm.

Among the popular attractions is the Royal Crescent, a prime example of Georgian design built by John Wood the Younger. Bath Abbey, the name for the Abbey Church of Saint Pater and Saint Paul, presents another architectonic jewel. Parts of the Abbey’s foundation dates back to the 7th century, however, the current foundation was built in the 16th century.

In addition to the Roman Baths and architecture, Bath is considered a cultural center. Some of the popular attractions worth visiting include the Victoria Art Gallery, Holborne Museum of Art, and the Herschel Museum of Astronomy.

Bath is certainly worth exploring because and exploring the Roman Baths is a must. No photograph or video footage can do this masterpiece justice. One simply has to come and see this city symbol up close.

Tags Bath, England, Hot Springs, Jane Seymour

Culture and Heritage Historical Travel North America Uncategorized

Unique African-American History Attractions – Beyond Black History Month

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 3, 2014
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Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as “Negro History Week” and later as Black History Month and we greatly owe the celebration of this month of Black Heritage, more so, the study of black history to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The Harvard scholar was disturbed to find that history books largely ignored the black American population-and when blacks were depicted, they were reflected as socially inferior and stero-typed in a very uncomplimentary fashion. Today, thanks to Dr. Woodson and others the historical story of how the month-long celebration of African-Americans came about is amazing and inspirational. But the celebration of African-Americans should not be limited to just one month. Throughout the year there are many lesser known sites around the country where you can celebrate the contributions of African-Americans in a unique way. The African-American Heritage Trail is quite long and the short list that follows doesn’t begin to scratch the surface of the attractions you can visit.

ALABAMA

What better place to visit and learn about Civil Rights than “ground zero” for the Civil Rights Movement Alabama. The Alabama Tourism Department has produced a Civil Rights Trail brochure that includes Montgomery, Selma, Birmingham and Tuskegee. Each with their unique story.

FLORIDA

The L.B Brown House is located in beautiful Bartow, Florida, and in 2001 was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Having been built in the 1800’s by former slave Lawrence B. Brown, it contains nine rooms and is 1700 sq. ft. The structure is perhaps the only one of its kind in Florida that was built and owned by a former slave. The L.B. Brown House is now used as a museum to help educate the public about the significant contributions made by African-Americans to Florida history.

MARYLAND

Maryland’s Eastern Shore, celebrates two of America’s greatest abolistionist heroes–Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass. Both were born on the Eastern Shore, held as slaves on there, and each returned as free people to help others. Talbot, Dorchester and Caroline Counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore highlights the history of the abolitionist movement and these two great heroes.

Reginald Lewis Museum — Reginald F. Lewis Museum photo courtesy of Imagine Photography DC.

Baltimore, Maryland has been the site of many significant historical events that helped pave the way for our country’s first African American president. As the birthplace of our national anthem, the city of Baltimore is no stranger to firsts. Home to the first African American Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall, visitors have the opportunity to extend their inauguration experience into a learning vacation with a wide variety of historical attractions including the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, the country’s first wax museum for African American history; the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture; and the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum, site of the nation’s first African American-owned shipyard.

MISSISSIPPI

The Corinth Contraband Camp and is located in Corinth, Mississippi. A part of the National Park Service’s Shiloh National Military Park, the Contraband Site is called the Birthplace of Freedom. Around the time of Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, many slaves in the Deep South heard that Corinth was occupied by Federal soldiers. These African-Americans sought freedom in Corinth under the security of the Army. Federal General Grenville Dodge understood what effect the defection of thousands of African-Americans would have on the Confederate war effort. He began to enlist the escaped slaves, who came into his lines as teamsters, cooks and laborers. He actively recruited male refugees, armed them, and put them in charge of security at the newly organized camp. Dodge’s refugee administrative efforts led to the formation of the 1st Alabama Infantry Regiment of African Descent, consisting of approximately 1000 men. The Corinth Camp resembled a small town, complete with a church, commissary, hospital, both frame and log houses, and a street grid with named streets and numbered houses. An American Missionary School operated where eager students of all ages sought knowledge day and night. Today, a portion of this camp has been set aside to commemorate the events which changed the lives of so many people.

MISSOURI (Independence)

The 1827 Log Courthouse, 107 W. Kansas Avenue , for many years the only Courthouse between the Mississippi River and the Pacific Ocean . This building was constructed by slave Samuel Shepherd and its sturdy walnut timbers served for a time as the courtroom by Administrative Judge Harry Truman before he became President of the United States. The courthouse is closed November-March for the winter.There is no phone at the courthouse, but information is available by calling Tourism at 816-325-7111 or toll free at 800-748-7323.

The 1859 Jail, 217 N. Main, which operated as the county jail from pre-Civil War time through 1910. The jail was also built by noted slaves who were master stonemasons. The 2 foot thick limestone walls housed famous guerillas such as William Clark Quantrill of Quantrill’s Raiders, Southern sympathizers during the Civil War and famous outlaws like Frank James, brother of Jesse James, and a leader of the James Gang. Phone 816-252-1892.

Woodlawn Cemetery on Noland Road is the final resting place of many prominent black citizens of Independence.

The Second Baptist Church, 116 E. White Oak Avenue, is said to be the oldest African-American church in Missouri. The church was organized in 1864 by a group that first met in 1861 in a one-room house. (Not open for tours).

The National Frontier Trails Museum, 318 W. Pacific, which, in addition to major displays about the westward trails, mountain men and trappers, houses an exhibit of interest entitled: “I Remain Your Affectionate Wife.” The exhibit spotlights seven original letters to a free black man who followed the California trail. The Gold Rush captured the imagination of the entire nation. Thousand of enterprising people filled with hopes and dreams of wealth migrated to California to “strike it rich”. Among these emigrants was David Brown, an African-American who settled in California. Left behind in Ohio was his wife, Rachel Brown. In these extraordinary letters, she describes her life without her man, her loneliness, and her hopes for a future life with David. Sadly, David and Rachel were never re-united.

The Truman Presidential Museum and Library, 500 U.S. 24 Highway, offers a glimpse into modern black history in a permanent exhibit where the desegregation of the armed forces is explored. One of the interactive “decision theaters” also includes a segment which explains Truman’s actions in pursuing desegregation, an act which was highly controversial at the time. Museum admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors, $3 youth, under 6 free. 816-268-8200

NEW YORK

Philipsburg Manor and Mill, in Sleepy Hollow, NY, is the country’s only fully staffed living history museum that focuses on the history of northern slavery. The 17th century manor was active from 1693 until 1779 but visitors today can participate in hands-on activities of the day and hear about little-known stories of enslavement in the colonial north. In the working gristmill that is accompanied by the sound of rushing water and the creaking of wooden gears, visitors will learn about the skills of Caesar, the enslaved African miller.

OHIO

On Cleveland, Ohio’s Public Square, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument (honoring those who fought in the Civil War) is nearing the completion of a $2 million refurbishment. In the next couple of weeks we will be re-installing the “broken shackles of slavery” held by Lincoln while he “arms” a freed slave all of which is depicted on one of the interior reliefs.

Ohio is home to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and several other Black History-related attractions. It covers a wide range of topics from slavery and the Underground Railroad to genealogy. General admission is $12, children 6-12 are $8, children under 6 are free. You can check out some of the other sites at Passage to Freedom. These include Harriet Beecher Stowe’s house, also in Cincinnati, and free.

VIRGINIA

Robert Russa Moton Museum, Farmville, VA: Developing museum and historic site is housed in the original building and grounds of R.R. Moton High School where in 1951 the student body walked out to protest unequal conditions. The resulting lawsuit became part of the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. The museum is the key point of another developing attraction in Virginia, the Civil Rights in Education Heritage Trail.

The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar, Richmond, VA: This fairly new museum is the only Civil War museum to explore that war from three equal perspectives – Union, Confederate and African-American. It contains one of the finest collections of African-American Civil War artifacts in existence.

Tags Black History, History Museums

Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Religious and Spiritual Travel Uncategorized

The art of Thaipusam- a measure of Devotion

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 3, 2014
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Looking for a travel experience that’s religious-based?

Each year in January or February, over 1.6 million devotees and visitors make their way to Malaysia’s most popular Hindu shrine at the Batu Caves, to join in celebration for their religious holiday Thaipusam. The shrine is dedicated to Murugan, the God of War, and the exciting festival is the largest gathering in multi-racial Malaysia.

The climb up to the Batu Caves is a hard one, with 272 steps. However, thousands of worshippers, locals, and tourists gladly take the trek which is filled with dancing and fabulous color, in order to reach the “Cathedral Cave.” The cave is teeming with lavish Hindu shrines, and is over 300-feet above ground.

This gathering is just outside the Malaysian city of Kuala Lumpur, with Murugan as its focal point. The story behind the festival’s start is an intriguing one, and like many god-related tales, is one of good triumphing over evil. Thaipusam is a commemoration of events in Hindu history, and devotees honor and praise Murugan in remembrance of the time Parvati gave Murugan a vel—spear, so he could destroy Soorapadman, the evil demon.

Thousands of devotees take their celebrations a few steps further by observing penance as an act of devotion. Many pierce their cheeks or tongues with vels, or steel rods that are long and shiny, they also stab their backs with hook-like needles and, many carry heavy kavadis—burdens, or decorative frames on their shoulders. It is believed that the greater the pain inflicted, the more god-earned merit, so those who consider themselves most devout will often perform multiple acts of penance to prove their worth to Murugan.

As worshippers cleanse their bodies of sin, patrons from other religious, and tourists, travel alongside to witness one of Malaysia’s religious highlights firsthand. Often devotees are discernable from the piercings found on their faces and upper bodies, and the kavadis they carry.

If you’re a visitor but want to take part in a way other than dancing or cheering, consider carrying a pot of milk as penance.

Tags Malaysia, Religious holiday, Thaipusam

Archaelogogical Tourism Central and South America Conservation Environment and Nature Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Uncategorized

Nazca Lines in Danger – Protecting the Ancient Geoglyphs

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 1, 2014
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When is the last time you solved a good mystery? No, not who ate the last cookie in the jar.

For a new mystery, travel to Peru and visit the Nazca Lines, a place where historical mystery meets exquisite geometric designs that date as far back as 200 BC. Sounds pretty amazing right? Unfortunately, these archaeological wonders aren’t safe.

Nazca lines in Peru — Photo: Dom Crossley

Numerous southern Peruvian tribes created the Nazca lines in the time period of 200 BC to 500 AD. Some of these geoglyphs stretch as far as 200 meters, many featuring intricate details, and depict people, plants, animals, and geometric shapes scratched 15 cm deep onto a desert’s surface. The thing is their discovery might never have been made if planes weren’t invented. With air travel over the area in the 1930s, it wasn’t hard to see these huge artistic renderings in the sand. This launched archaeologists and anthropologists into action and it wasn’t long before research began and visitors were crawling all over the place.

As you can probably imagine these geometric wonders continue to draw travelers from across the globe, and the popularity of the Nazca lines has resulted in a threat to their very existence. The garbage, lack of safety rules and arrangements, inappropriate and inadequate tourism infrastructure, and poor viewing platforms, all contribute to man-made destruction.

Weather changes also play a major role in the upkeep of the lines. Unlike years gone by, there is now a real threat of flooding so though the Peruvian desert is still rather dry, should this occur, it’s uncertain that the lines would remain intact.

It would be a major archaeological and historical loss should the Nazca lines be erased from our landscape. Three cultures helped create these lines that remain a mystery for scientists, who still don’t know how they exist. Many have put their own theories to work, with some believing that they were created to worship the water sources and the mountains, as life in the area was connected to the presence of water.

Whatever the reason, it can hardly explain the true beauty that exists on the Peruvian desert plains, as the Nazca lines speak to us from a time we forgot and must be preserved at all costs.

Tags Peru

Culinary Travel Europe Historical Travel Uncategorized

BUDAPEST: The City of Spas, Art and Great Food

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date November 25, 2013
No Comments on BUDAPEST: The City of Spas, Art and Great Food

Where should you go for the ultimate spa experience? Look no further than Budapest, where their world-renowned spas are waiting for you.

Popular spas like Széchenyi and Gellért, have taken advantage of the Hungarian capital’s 120 springs that provide healing, relaxing, and revitalizing experiences for all who visit them. These springs pump out a whopping 70 million liters of water daily, and you can bet that the volume is put to good use.

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is Budapest’s premiere grand spa, and consists of ten indoor pools, and three outdoor pools. As it has been in operation since the early twentieth century, it is a favorite among locals of all ages, and health backgrounds. Many visit during the weekends to prepare for the coming week, or to help relieve muscle and joint pain.

A great time to visit Budapest’s spas is after or before a long day of checking out historical sites. The city has many that attract tourists’ attention including the Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament Building, and Matthias Church. Visiting all those sites can be tiring, so take a load off at a spa and enjoy the healing hot waters or, do the reverse and jump in to get more energy for the day ahead.

Gellért Spa and Bath, provides many of the same comforts as Széchenyi, though it has fewer pools. Its charm lies with its exquisite mosaics, marble pillars, and the fact that it’s a part of an art noveau hotel of the same name. Add that to its location—on a hill close to the historic city center, and Gellért is a spa experience you don’t want to miss out on.

If the hot water takes it out of you and you want something to munch on, try local sweets like strudel, cakes, or pancakes, or heavier dishes like Pörkölt—Hungarian meat stew, and of course the famous Hungarian meat goulash.

Soaking at a spa may not be your thing, but there are plenty other opportunities to enjoy all that Budapest has to offer. For all you travelers who aren’t ready to pass up your spa opportunity however, remember to bring your own swimsuit, towels, and flip-flops, jump in and enjoy.

Tags Budapest, Hungary, Spa Travel

Culture and Heritage Historical Travel Uncategorized

Unique Places to Celebrate Black History

Post author By admin-tonya
Post date February 1, 2011
No Comments on Unique Places to Celebrate Black History

Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as “Negro History Week” and later as Black History Month and we greatly owe the celebration of this month of Black Heritage, more so, the study of black history to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The Harvard scholar was disturbed to find that history books largely ignored the black American population-and when blacks were depicted, they were reflected as socially inferior and stero-typed in a very uncomplimentary fashion. Today, thanks to Dr. Woodson and others the historical story of how the month-long celebration of African-Americans came about is amazing and inspirational. During Black History Month, there are many lesser known sites around the country where you can celebrate the month in a unique way. The African-American Heritage Trail is quite long and the short list that follows doesn’t begin to scratch the surface of the attractions you can visit.