Half the State of Israel is made up of the Negev Desert. And in the middle of that desert is a mountain called Mount Negev, 85 km south of Beersheba. A large crater, called Makhtesh Ramon, which translates as Roman crater, is atop that mountain. ‘Makhtesh’ means a crater that’s been made by erosion, rather than being a dent left by a large stone from the sky. Water over several million years dissolved and washed away the soft insides of the makhtesh leaving a rock-sided crater, 500 meters deep and 40 km long! It is a dream-come-true for geologists, exposing volcanic and magmatic phenomena going back over 200 million years. That crater, and the surrounding area, is now Israel’s largest national park—Makhtesh Ramon. The water at the bottom of the makhtesh sustains many animals and plants. In that valley are tulips, pistachio trees, globe daisies and buckthorns. Animals there include ibexes, leopards, caracal, striped hyenas, sand foxes, gazelles, hyraxes and the ‘fat desert rat’—a relative of the gerbel. And there are onagers there, the rare, wild and untamable Asian ass from which the ‘onager catapult’ got its name. Visitors who would like to stay and explore this sizable erosion cirque could book into one of the hotels at the small, windy, town of Mitzpe Ramon, which literally overlooks the crater. The south end of Mitzpe Ramon has several hotels to choose from, as well as hostels, campsites and even a Bedouin inn.

The Roman Crater in Israel

Half the State of Israel is made up of the Negev Desert. And in the middle of that desert is a mountain called Mount Negev, 85 km south of Beersheba. A large crater, called Makhtesh Ramon, which translates as Roman crater, is atop that mountain. ‘Makhtesh’ means a crater that’s been made by erosion, rather than being a dent left by a large stone from the sky. Water over several million years dissolved and washed away the soft insides of the makhtesh leaving a rock-sided crater, 500...
Posted by viaDe v. onto Deserts
A photo of Wat Chaiwattanaram, a ruin of Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya, Thailand, the historical capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1350-1767).
A photo of Wat Chaiwattanaram, a ruin of Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya, Thailand, the historical capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1350-1767).
Posted by M.G. E. onto Thailand
Four Seasons Resort at Troon North— Scottsdale, AZ Located high in the Sonoran Desert and at the base of the cooling foothills of Pinnacle Peak, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale is the place to relax, southwestern-style. Surrounded by incredible views the hotel features 210 generously sized guest rooms, including 22 suites, in 25 mostly one- or two-story adobe casitas. Patio doors open to a private landscaped terrace or balcony and magnificent desert views. Capturing the vibrant tones of the desert in bloom and the purples, pinks and oranges of a Sonoran sunset, interiors feature custom furnishings – many sourced from Mexican artisans – and handmade art by Huichol Indians. Each room has a gas-burning fireplace, individually controlled air conditioning and a generously proportioned bathroom with deep soaking tub and separate glass-enclosed shower. Technological enhancements include wireless Internet access, flat-screen televisions, docking stations for MP3 players and electronic private bars. The hotel features a luxury pool, spa, tennis courts and of course golf. Guests can enjoy special privileges at both The Pinnacle and The Monument championship golf courses at Troon North Golf Club, as well as guest privileges at the Troon North Clubhouse. To enhance the golf experience, Troon North limits the number of players on both courses and allows more time and space between groups, providing a more relaxed setting with added privacy. Elevated tees offer breathtaking views in every direction.

Enjoying Four Seasons in Scottsdale, AZ

Four Seasons Resort at Troon North— Scottsdale, AZ Located high in the Sonoran Desert and at the base of the cooling foothills of Pinnacle Peak, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale is the place to relax, southwestern-style. Surrounded by incredible views the hotel features 210 generously sized guest rooms, including 22 suites, in 25 mostly one- or two-story adobe casitas. Patio doors open to a private landscaped terrace or balcony and magnificent desert views. Capturing the vibrant tones of the...
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Posted by Tony V. onto Best Hotels
Yes, these elephants are playing basketball. Well, not quite the way you might be used to seeing, but with their own special style. We found this place nestled in the beautiful jungle surrounding of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The trip offered up some amazing food, sights and animals. Not only do these guys enjoy sports, but they can also paint! Read more about them here: <a href="http://www.maesaelephantcamp.com/">http://www.maesaelephantcamp.com/</a>
Yes, these elephants are playing basketball. Well, not quite the way you might be used to seeing, but with their own special style. We found this place nestled in the beautiful jungle surrounding of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The trip offered up some amazing food, sights and animals. Not only do these guys enjoy sports, but they can also paint! Read more about them here: http://www.maesaelephantcamp.com/
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Posted by Jeremy Z. onto Thailand from farm4.staticflickr.com
The Golden Gate Park in San Francisco is 20% bigger than New York’s Central Park and has been getting 13 million visitors a year. Divide that by 365 to see what you get on an average day! The park is free and is open all the time, but there are admission costs to some of the projects in it. It ‘s a ½ mile wide (north to south) reaching 3 miles easterly into the city from the Pacific Ocean. One place Golden Gate Park is easily accessed from is 19th Avenue, which runs right through the middle of it. In the park is the large, lovingly constructed, Conservatory of Flowers. It is made of wood and glass and has had to be rebuilt several times due to being damaged in wind storms. They’re open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 to 4:30, and charge $1.50 to $5.00. The ‘fine arts’ De Young Museum is very well respected, has been there since 1921, has been rebuilt and reopened in 2005. They have an admission charge. The California Academy of Sciences is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. But as well as housing a museum of natural history it also contains the Steinhart Aquarium and the Morrison Planetarium. Admission to the Natural History Museum and the Steinhart Aquarium (Planetarium admission is separate) is $8.50 for adults; youth (12-17) and seniors (65 and over) $5.50; children (4-11) $2; and under that they’re free. Open 10 to 5 in the winter and 9 to 6 from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The aquarium has nearly 600 species of fish. The sharks are fed every 2 hours from 10:30 to 4:30. The penguins (penguin is a Welsh word !) are fed daily at 11:30 and 4. There is a 5-acre Japanese Tea Garden, designed for the 1894 California Midwinter International Exposition. It includes a pagoda and a Zen garden. The 55 acres making up the San Francisco Botanical Garden at the Strybing Arboretum contains more than 7500 plant species, as well as northern California’s largest horticultural library. There are several lakes in the park. Stow Lake provides water for a network of fire hydrants. Row boats and pedal boats can be rented at the boathouse on Stow Lak. Spreckles Lake, by the north side of the park at 36th Ave., is home of the San Francisco Model Yacht Club, and they have small ‘free sailing’ models and radio controlled little boats sailing there almost all of the time. There are 2 large 100 year old windmills (one under repair), a 9000 seat arena called Kezar Stadium in which track and field, soccer, lacrosse, and high school football are played. And there is another stadium, other lakes, a paddock with a small herd of bison, a music concourse with underground parking, statues of Don Quixote, Robert Burns, Goethe and Schiller, a restaurant by the sea and much much more ! If you are visiting San Francisco for even just a few days Golden Gate Park is not to be missed.

Don't Miss Golden Gate Park in San Francisco

The Golden Gate Park in San Francisco is 20% bigger than New York’s Central Park and has been getting 13 million visitors a year. Divide that by 365 to see what you get on an average day! The park is free and is open all the time, but there are admission costs to some of the projects in it. It ‘s a ½ mile wide (north to south) reaching 3 miles easterly into the city from the Pacific Ocean. One place Golden Gate Park is easily accessed from is 19th Avenue, which runs right through the middle...
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Posted by viaDe v. onto Parks

Indonesia t.

Indonesia t. Beautiful bridge with wonderful sea view
CHARLIE SAIKLEY 6-MAN Manhattan Beach in South Bay, California.

So Cool! Oakley on Manhattan Beach

CHARLIE SAIKLEY 6-MAN Manhattan Beach in South Bay, California.
Posted by Lars S. onto California from youtu.be
The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is an important tourist attraction. The Mason’s original idea for a memorial to George Washington was a large bronze statue that was shipped Alexandria from Rome, where it had been made, in 1861 just before the Civil War. It was destroyed during the Civil War. By 1911 the Masons throughout the United States had started to work on a new design for a memorial and began raising money. By 1922 they had enough money to begin construction. Plans kept changing and so costs kept going up but on November 1st, 1923, 14,000 Masons and dignitaries attended the ceremony of the laying of the corner stone, celebrating the 170th anniversary of George Washington being initiated into Freemasonry. In May of 1932 a large parade, 15,000 people despite a heavy rain, celebrated the Memorial’s dedication. And visitors have been welcomed in since then, though work continued on the enormous Memorial right up until 1970. For more information, costs and tour hours at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial go to: <a href="http://gwmemorial.org/">http://gwmemorial.org/</a>

George Washington Memorial

The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is an important tourist attraction. The Mason’s original idea for a memorial to George Washington was a large bronze statue that was shipped Alexandria from Rome, where it had been made, in 1861 just before the Civil War. It was destroyed during the Civil War. By 1911 the Masons throughout the United States had started to work on a new design for a memorial and began raising money. By 1922 they had enough money to begin construction. Plans...
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Posted by Lars S. onto Alexandria, Virginia
My partner and I went on a 3 day/2night tour of Komodo and Rinca Islands with Komodo Mega Tours in late April this year (Tour agent Mr Yuventius, Tour guide Mr Pius, Captain Rolan). I was hesitant booking online after reading all the dodgy stories of people being ripped off, but we only had one week in Bali and didnt want to risk not going. We dealt with Mr Yuventius at short notice to arrange a booking online, he was nothing short of fabulous! He answered queries quickly (and I had lots of queries to make sure it was a good company and good boat!). I was hesitant paying a deposit worried we would get ripped off. As the tour was at short notice he agreed to let me not pay a deposit, the only money I transferred was for him to book our Denpasar to Lauban bajo flights. He booked our flights before my money had even cleared so he could get us the cheapest flights! I would have no hesitation with booking with the company online and paying a deposit. Everything went to plan. Our flights were with Merpati, they left on schedule and the planes were good, nothing felt unsafe. We were greeted by a driver and our tour guide Mr Pius at the Lauban Bajo airport and taken to see Mr Yuventius to pay the outstanding balance and try on the correct size flippers. They took us past a small local supermarket to buy some beer and some snacks. And then we went straight to the harbour and onto our boat. The boat was a local indonesian boat, but was much better than I was expecting. I had no queries regarding safety. The captain Mr Rolan was fantastic. My partner is an ex fisherman so knows a thing or two about boats, and he though the boat and captain were great. Its not super flash, but it has a toilet with a simple shower in the cubicle, we had a cabin which is a on deck cabin not a underlevel one, so we got sea breezes and it was cool, and beds were comfy. The food was awesome, we never ate it all and didnt get hungry. We bought a few snacks for the hikes on the island, just nuts and dried fruit, and some beer the evening. With that it was plenty of food. Our guide Mr Pius was very good. He was very keen to be of assistance, his english was good, and he was a genuinely nice guy. He even sang me a local song he sings to his kids! The tour itself was great. We went to Rinca Island and Komodo Island and did the short and medium hike respectively. The hikes were easy and short, longer hikes would probably have been better in hindsight. We went snorkelling at 3 different locations, the snorkelling was fabulous!! We also stopped at Rinca village, I loved this seeing the local village. We went to the bat caves here. I have seen bat caves before so this I found not so great. But I loved the village. The only concern was walking up the jetty, half the boards were missing and it felt like an Indiana Jones moment trying to choose the safe planks to walk along. We also saw the bats all leaving at sunset from the boat, that was lovely to watch with a beer in hand! We didnt do the batu cermin, we opted for a second night on the boat with morning snorkelling instead. Personally I’m glad we stayed on the boat again, it was so lovely and relaxing on board. I would happily book with this company again, they couldnt have bent over backwards more to ensure we were happy with the tour.
My partner and I went on a 3 day/2night tour of Komodo and Rinca Islands with Komodo Mega Tours in late April this year (Tour agent Mr Yuventius, Tour guide Mr Pius, Captain Rolan). I was hesitant booking online after reading all the dodgy stories of people being ripped off, but we only had one week in Bali and didnt want to risk not going. We dealt with Mr Yuventius at short notice to arrange a booking online, he was nothing short of fabulous! He answered queries quickly (and I had lots...
Posted by Yuventius T. onto Indonesia
The first book in the World Adventurers Series, Kilimanjaro: One Man's Quest to Go Over the Hill chronicles the author's attempt to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. At forty years old and on the verge of a midlife crisis, he tried to change his life by climbing a mountain. This is his true story of facing Kilimanjaro and other challenges at middle age. This book is for anyone who feels over the hill and needs encouragement to make a life change in the face of difficult odds. It's also for the casual climber or hiker who is interested in climbing one of the world's tallest mountains. Filled with insights and advice for those who are contemplating their own Kilimanjaro climb, this book will put you on the mountain and inspire you to go over it. Check out M.G. Edwards website at: <a href="http://www.mgedwards.com">www.mgedwards.com</a> Read excerpts at: <a href="http://www.scribd.com/m_g_edwards">http://www.scribd.com/m_g_edwards</a>

The True Story of a Mountain Quest

The first book in the World Adventurers Series, Kilimanjaro: One Man's Quest to Go Over the Hill chronicles the author's attempt to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. At forty years old and on the verge of a midlife crisis, he tried to change his life by climbing a mountain. This is his true story of facing Kilimanjaro and other challenges at middle age. This book is for anyone who feels over the hill and needs encouragement to make a life change in the face of...
Posted by viaDe v. onto Books
Mont Saint-Michel was a real hidden gem, despite its size and grandeur. I was without words as soon as it crossed into our field of view. As the image began to fill up the closer we got, I pulled over and crawled onto the roof of our rental car. This picture was taken with a wide-angle lens using a method known as &quot;HDR&quot;. HDR gives the opportunity to play with more dynamic range, layering multiple exposures of a subject and allowing more manipulation of the colors. I think it definitely adds to the fairy-tale qualities of this majestic location. <a href="http://www.ot-montsaintmichel.com/en/accueil.htm">http://www.ot-montsaintmichel.com/en/accueil.htm</a>
Mont Saint-Michel was a real hidden gem, despite its size and grandeur. I was without words as soon as it crossed into our field of view. As the image began to fill up the closer we got, I pulled over and crawled onto the roof of our rental car. This picture was taken with a wide-angle lens using a method known as "HDR". HDR gives the opportunity to play with more dynamic range, layering multiple exposures of a subject and allowing more manipulation of the colors. I think it...
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Posted by Jeremy Z. onto France

Lars S.

Lars S. Great Picture!
The Space shuttle Discovery flies over Udvar-Hazy Air and Space center on its final journey. Serving as a motivational centerpiece for millions, the flight was a symbolic end to an era of exploration and learning that helped to pave the way for many new technologies. As the shuttle soared overhead, I took aim with my camera and hoped for the best. The result was more than pleasing. The Udvar-Hazy museum, a supplemental house to the original Air and Space location in Washington D.C. is a treat all its own. Dozens of aircraft hang suspended from the ceiling, others cover the floors, all in their originally restored glory. My visit was not only educational, but inspirational. I definitely recommend it be a part of your travels some time in the future. <a href="http://airandspace.si.edu">http://airandspace.si.edu</a>
The Space shuttle Discovery flies over Udvar-Hazy Air and Space center on its final journey. Serving as a motivational centerpiece for millions, the flight was a symbolic end to an era of exploration and learning that helped to pave the way for many new technologies. As the shuttle soared overhead, I took aim with my camera and hoped for the best. The result was more than pleasing. The Udvar-Hazy museum, a supplemental house to the original Air and Space location in Washington D.C. is a...
  • 1 likes
Posted by Jeremy Z. onto Space Travel
Riding horses on the beach is one of the best ways to go horseback riding. And in Daly City, CA, just minutes south of San Francisco, you won’t be disappointed. From downtown San Francisco my wife and I hopped into our rental car and headed south for a short 20-minute drive to the Mar Vista Stables in Daly City. The stables sit on the edge of the Thornton State Park, and within the park is Thornton State Beach. Was it really going to be a beach ride, I thought? We have been sold on beach rides before that disappoint. During one holiday in the Caribbean the “beach ride” ended up being five minutes! We started on concrete, then through the woods and finally the beach. But, it was only five minutes on the beach because we were out of time and had to go back. What a let down. So that experience was in my head as they saddled up two great looking horses for us. As we began the ride our tour guide took us through a narrow trail filled with ice plants as far as you could see. I thought the vibrant colors of the plants with their hues of green and red were an amazing site, but I still wondered what this “beach ride” would be like. To my surprise, just as the heavy fog lifted, and the sun glistened on the hillside we made our way down to the beach, less than ten minutes after our ride began! And what a beach ride it was. The waves were crashing and the sun was a brilliant late afternoon glow as the horses carried us up and down Thornton State Beach. We passed driftwood, sea birds and kept an eye open for seals that we were told swim just off shore. This was a true beach ride where you could enjoy the sand, the surf and the mountains from a great vantage point on top of your horses. It surpassed our expectations and on our next trip to San Francisco we will surely return to Daly City for horseback riding on the beach.

Horseback Riding in San Francisco

Riding horses on the beach is one of the best ways to go horseback riding. And in Daly City, CA, just minutes south of San Francisco, you won’t be disappointed. From downtown San Francisco my wife and I hopped into our rental car and headed south for a short 20-minute drive to the Mar Vista Stables in Daly City. The stables sit on the edge of the Thornton State Park, and within the park is Thornton State Beach. Was it really going to be a beach ride, I thought? We have been sold on beach...
Posted by Tony V. onto Horseback Riding
San Diego is a traveler’s paradise. With beautiful beaches, a vibrant downtown and gorgeous weather it’s also home to Balboa Park, one of the best parks in the country. Balboa Park is dotted with mature trees and a variety of lush flower gardens. You can find out more about the park by visiting: <a href="http://www.balboapark.org/">http://www.balboapark.org/</a>

San Diego Balboa Park

San Diego is a traveler’s paradise. With beautiful beaches, a vibrant downtown and gorgeous weather it’s also home to Balboa Park, one of the best parks in the country. Balboa Park is dotted with mature trees and a variety of lush flower gardens. You can find out more about the park by visiting: http://www.balboapark.org/
Posted by Tony V. onto San Diego California from youtu.be
It’s a slice of Italy in San Diego. Little Italy is located on Grape Street in downtown San Diego, just minutes from the San Diego International Airport and only a few blocks from San Diego’s famous Gaslamp District. Little Italy is a stable ethnic business and residential community, and its downtown San Diego’s oldest neighborhood business district. For more information on Little Italy visit: <a href="http://www.littleitalysd.com/">http://www.littleitalysd.com/</a>

Taste Little Italy in San Diego

It’s a slice of Italy in San Diego. Little Italy is located on Grape Street in downtown San Diego, just minutes from the San Diego International Airport and only a few blocks from San Diego’s famous Gaslamp District. Little Italy is a stable ethnic business and residential community, and its downtown San Diego’s oldest neighborhood business district. For more information on Little Italy visit: http://www.littleitalysd.com/
Posted by Tony V. onto San Diego California from youtu.be
We were fortunate to spend time with Teresa Carey and listen to her inspiring story of adventure as she sails around North America. What was great about video taping Teresa is we just turned on the camera and her enthusiasm and passion filled the screen. Teresa gave up her job as a teacher to pursue her dream of sailing and living aboard her boat. In this short video you’ll get a taste of Teresa’s adventures and feel her excitement for sailing and living a more simple life. She calls her journey, Sailing, Simplicity, and the Pursuit of Happiness. As she explains, her goal is to share meaningful thoughts on her exploration of simple living and to inspire others to chase their own creative dreams. viaDe Travel is delighted that Teresa took the time during a brief stop in Washington, D.C. to share her story with us. Right now she is out there on the high seas discovering new adventures and experiences on the water and in the ports of call around the world. To find out more about Teresa check out her blog at <a href="http://sailingsimplicity.com/">http://sailingsimplicity.com/</a> or on Twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/sailingsimple">http://twitter.com/#!/sailingsimple</a>

A Conversation With Sailor and Writer Teresa Carey

We were fortunate to spend time with Teresa Carey and listen to her inspiring story of adventure as she sails around North America. What was great about video taping Teresa is we just turned on the camera and her enthusiasm and passion filled the screen. Teresa gave up her job as a teacher to pursue her dream of sailing and living aboard her boat. In this short video you’ll get a taste of Teresa’s adventures and feel her excitement for sailing and living a more simple life. She calls...
Posted by Lars S. onto Sailing from youtube.com
Gadsby Tavern Museum City-Alexandria, VA USA

A Tour of the Gadsby Tavern Museum

Gadsby Tavern Museum City-Alexandria, VA USA
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Posted by Lars S. onto Alexandria, Virginia from youtu.be

Tony V.

Tony V. Great historical insights about Gadsby Tavern. It's on my list to visit on my next trip to Alexandria!
Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary Museum City of Alexandria, VA USA
Stabler Leadbeater Apothecary Museum City of Alexandria, VA USA
Posted by Lars S. onto Alexandria, Virginia from youtu.be
Zhujiajiao, the Venice of Shanghai, China On January 26, 2012, my family and I traveled to Zhujiajiao, an ancient village in Qingpu District about 45 minutes west of Shanghai. Zhujiajiao bills itself as the &quot;Venice of Shanghai.” Why not the “Venice of China”? Well, perhaps because China has hundreds, if not thousands, of traditional villages like Zhujiajiao scattered throughout the country. Founded over 1,700 years ago, Zhujiajiao has canals, wooden oar-driven tour boats, stone arch bridges, and plenty of traditional Chinese architecture. However, it bears little resemblance to Venice, Italy. Some of the village’s attractions include a Buddhist temple that rises above town, a small Temple of the Town God dedicated to the spirits that protect the village, and a theater that offers performances of the Chinese classic play The Peony Pavilion during the summer months and on Saturdays. The traditional Qing Dynasty-era architecture that lines a picturesque network of canals is a main attraction, as are the Chinese foods, beverages, and souvenirs for sale from many vendors. Lotus root, soy beans, pork, toad, and seafood are local specialties. The toad is delectable, but the snails fished from the canals aren’t your garden variety escargot. Dried, not fried, chicken is also a local favorite. Not recommended for tourists. The crowds during Chinese New Year were horrific. We thought we were going to be crushed in an alleyway! Fortunately, body heat kept us warm on a cold winter day. In spite of the crowds, the atmosphere was festive during our visit. Dragon boats with drums beating sailed in the canals, and well-groomed dogs sported bright red Chinese New Year coats. Red lanterns with gold tassels festooned the streets. Zhujiajiao is a nice daytrip from Shanghai along with Da Guan Yuan, a park on the shore of Dian Shan Hu (lake) that replicates the garden featured in the classic Chinese novel The Dream of the Red Chamber. Just don't go during when it’s busy! M.G. Edwards, Travel Author <a href="http://www.mgedwards.com">http://www.mgedwards.com</a>
Zhujiajiao, the Venice of Shanghai, China On January 26, 2012, my family and I traveled to Zhujiajiao, an ancient village in Qingpu District about 45 minutes west of Shanghai. Zhujiajiao bills itself as the "Venice of Shanghai.” Why not the “Venice of China”? Well, perhaps because China has hundreds, if not thousands, of traditional villages like Zhujiajiao scattered throughout the country. Founded over 1,700 years ago, Zhujiajiao has canals, wooden oar-driven tour boats, stone arch...
Posted by M.G. E. onto China
I enjoy riding bicycle in rural Thailand. I occasionally ride with a great group of people who leave the close confines of suburban Bangkok and cycle to the rural areas of greater Bangkok. Some of the better places to ride are on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River that cuts the city of Bangkok in two. Bang Phlap District in northern Bangkok is one such place. Once you cross the river by ferry, you are free to explore a beautiful part of the city. Weaving through the narrow streets and alleys while avoiding traffic and aggressive soi (street) dogs is an adventure. The back streets of Bang Phlap offer a feast for the eyes as it skirts Koh Kred Island along the Chao Phraya waterfront. Some alleys no wider than walkways pass just above canals and swamps. It takes some skill to stay on your bicycle as you dodge dogs, mopeds and speed bumps without falling into the murky water. The scenic photo opportunities reward you for your effort. As you ride, you may pass some beautiful Buddhist temples along the way. The most memorable one is Wat Bangchak, home to a giant gold Buddha sitting cross-legged facing the Chao Phraya River. The beautiful Buddha meditates serenely at the river’s edge. At least five other temples are located around Bang Phlap. A bicycle ride in Bang Phlap takes you through neighborhoods where homes sit on stilts above the water line, small businesses are painted in bright, cheery colors, and children chant their lessons at school so loudly that their voices echo in the street. It’s a lot of fun to explore this beautiful and interesting part of Thailand by bicycle.
I enjoy riding bicycle in rural Thailand. I occasionally ride with a great group of people who leave the close confines of suburban Bangkok and cycle to the rural areas of greater Bangkok. Some of the better places to ride are on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River that cuts the city of Bangkok in two. Bang Phlap District in northern Bangkok is one such place. Once you cross the river by ferry, you are free to explore a beautiful part of the city. Weaving through the narrow streets and...
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Posted by M.G. E. onto Thailand
Korean Folk Village My family ventured in July 2005 to the Korean Folk Village in Yongin, an exurb of Seoul. Reputed to be one of the best daytrips out of the city, it lived up to its reputation. If you visit Seoul and only have time for one daytrip, this is a great place to go. Opened in 1974, the village is the grandest of all the folk villages dotting South Korea. Although it was built as a tourist attraction, it’s fully functional. Many of the employees dressed up as peasants and in hanbok (traditional Korean dress) also live there. It’s an intriguing sight to see next to the modern high-rise apartment buildings that loom next to the village gates. The route to the Korean Folk Village two hours south of Seoul is not well marked, and finding northbound Interstate 1 heading north is not easy.We missed the Giheung exit off Interstate 1 on our way to the village and ended up driving past it to Osan. We backtracked on an arterial road that paralleled the freeway. By the time we arrived, we were so hungry that we stopped to eat at “Korea Restaurant” near the village gate. We thought that a restaurant with a lofty-sounding name representing the entire country had to have delicious food, but it turned out to be a cafeteria-style, massed-produced food operation with a limited selection and mediocre cuisine. All the restaurants near the entrance looked the same. At least the friendly help took a liking to our young son! If you visit, you’re better off making your way to the far end of the village and eating at the open-air village “Bazzar.” We eventually arrived at the “Bazzar” and saw some of the delicious foods sold there. After lunch we went to “Seonangdang,” a religious shrine where one can pray to and solicit favors from the village’s guardian spirits. Koreans, like many peoples around the world, at one time carved ancestral totems out of wood. The ones in the village reminded me of the totem poles made by the Native Americans and First Peoples of the Pacific Northwest, although these totems were bit more free spirited (no pun intended). Korean totems can be whimsical and a bit chaotic with laughing, asymmetrical faces. They also follow the curvature of the wood and occasionally lean. We walked to the ceramic village, where I bought my first kimchi pot (a ceramic jar used to make kimchi, not kimchi-flavored marijuana). As the national dish of Korea, kimchi is held in high regard in Korea. No meal would be complete without a side dish of spicy and sweet cabbage, radish, or cucumber kimchi. The Italian restaurant where my wife and I occasionally dine in Seoul serves sweet pickles as a substitute (western restaurants in Korea often serve sweet pickles in lieu of banchan, or side dishes).
I’ve wanted to buy a pot for quite some time because I thought they looked decorative. Mine is not too big, perhaps one gallon (two kiloliters). It’s not large enough to make enough kimchi to feed a family. To do that, you would need to buy at least a 20-gallon drum! Although I overpaid for the jar, I was happy to buy one from the shop where it was made. Knowing its source gave it character and an identity. We made our way through the village and visited a replica of a typical traditional Korean peasant farm. We stopped to watch two elderly women in hanbok making silk. I had never seen how it’s made. One woman boiled silkworm cocoons, killing the larvae, separating each from its cocoon and casting it aside, and helped another woman unravel silk from the cocoon. The second woman spun the raw silk thread around a spinning wheel. Watching them produce silk was fascinating. It’s amazing that such a manual, unglamorous process ends with the creation of one of the world’s most luxurious fabrics. In an open area in the middle of the village, we came upon some traditional Korean games, the see-saw and arrow throwing. In a simulation of the ancient Korean game, some locals tried to throw three-foot long sticks into narrow jars. (Arrow throwing is akin to the western carnival game of throwing balls through holes on a backboard.) The Korean see-saws were thick planks of wood straddling sacks of hay. My son enjoyed giving it a try. Daddy put his foot on the plank and bounced him up and down. He laughed and held on for dear life as daddy rocked him. He then took over and did it himself. Ready for a treat, we went to the “Bazzar” and stopped for ice cream. I loved the atmosphere of the open-air market filled with traditional buildings and workers dressed in peasant clothing. At that moment, contemporary Seoul seemed far away.
We left the “Bazzar” and crossed the Arch Stone Bridge, a picturesque structure straddling a gentle river flowing through the village. We wandered along the far bank of the river through a group of farmhouses modeled after those found on Jeju Island made of volcanic rock. For the first time, my son saw farm animals that he knew well but had never seen before—rabbits, chickens, pigs, goats, and geese. His eyes lit up when he saw the real version of animals he had read about in story books and saw as toys. He especially liked the rabbits. Unfortunately, the geese were unruly. We stood about ten feet from them until four decided to come after us. We backed away quickly and moved out of their territory. I wasn’t about to get bitten by a goose and end up getting rabies shots. That would have been a lousy end to a beautiful day. I enjoyed trying some of the rudimentary milling equipment, a gristmill and hammermill. It made me thankful that I buy my bread, rice and pasta at a store. After wandering through replicas of old Jeju Island farms, we ventured into an open area where a Korean acrobat on a high wire performed a delicate balancing act. He did a fabulous job defying gravity, bouncing up and down on the rope, sitting on it, straddling it, and balancing himself on top. He balanced himself grasping only a handkerchief in one hand and a large white fan in the other. He used the fan to control his balance, waving it slowly, then feverishly to bring his body back into equilibrium. Dressed in a white traditional costume, he wore a black Korean-style hat reminiscent of a Korean sage. I enjoyed his performance. We then headed to the Manor House, where we witnessed a traditional Korean wedding. The condensed ceremony that took place in the main courtyard highlighted some of its interesting aspects. As the ceremony began, the groom took his place to the east of the wedding altar and faced west, sitting cross-legging awaiting his bride. Symbolic foods lay atop the altar, waiting to be parceled to the bride and groom. An old sage to the north of the altar faced south and read the vows from a wedding book. A few minutes later the sage called for the bride to come. She left the Manor House and descended its steps, entering the courtyard with two female assistants. They escorted her to the altar and helped her kneel on both knees to the east so that she faced towards her future husband facing west.
As the sage chanted the wedding vows, assistants offered food and drink to the betrothed couple. They ate chestnuts, a symbol of the yangban, or Korean aristocracy, and other delicacies. The bride’s arms were crossed and positioned over her face so that the groom could not see her until the ceremony ended. Prompted by the sage, the groom and bride stood and bowed to each other. Dressed in hanbok, they made a handsome couple. The sage pronounced the couple married, and the ceremony ended as quickly as it started. Having seen many weddings around the world, I enjoyed this unique depiction of an age-old tradition. After the ceremony ended, we headed to a modern children’s amusement park in the southern portion of the folk village across the river. Filled with amusements, modern architecture, and contemporary sculptures, it was much different than the rest of the village. We took our son on several rides. He had been such a good sport putting up with our wandering that we knew we needed to treat him to something he would enjoy. He first rode a roving mechanical dog. He was apprehensive about getting close to real animals but had no qualms climbing aboard this slow-moving “dog.” Afterwards, mommy took him on a carrousel for his first merry-go ride, and daddy took him on his first train ride aboard the children’s train. He had a great time. Our son had so much fun that he didn’t nap all day long. Once we finished and went home, he was out like a light. I was tired too and wanted to do the same but had to wait until home to crash. Our fun adventure at the Korean Folk Village wore all of us out. Visit <a href="http://worldadventurers.wordpress.com/2012/07/05/korean-folk-village-with-photos/">http://worldadventurers.wordpress.com/2012/07/05/korean-folk-village-with-photos/</a> to read the original post with photos on my blog, World Adventurers. M.G. Edwards is a writer of books and stories in the mystery, thriller and science fiction-fantasy genres. He also writes travel adventures. He is author of Kilimanjaro: One Man’s Quest to Go Over the Hill, a non-fiction account of his attempt to summit Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain and a collection of short stories called Real Dreams: Thirty Years of Short Stories. His books are available as an e-book and in print on Amazon.com and other booksellers. He lives in Bangkok, Thailand with his wife Jing and son Alex. For more books or stories by M.G. Edwards, visit his web site at <a href="http://www.mgedwards.com">www.mgedwards.com</a> or his blog, World Adventurers (<a href="http://worldadventurers.wordpress.com">http://worldadventurers.wordpress.com</a>). Contact him at me@mgedwards.com, on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/migedwards">http://www.facebook.com/migedwards</a>, or @m_g_edwards on Twitter. © 2012 Brilliance Press. All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted without the written consent of the author.
Korean Folk Village My family ventured in July 2005 to the Korean Folk Village in Yongin, an exurb of Seoul. Reputed to be one of the best daytrips out of the city, it lived up to its reputation. If you visit Seoul and only have time for one daytrip, this is a great place to go. Opened in 1974, the village is the grandest of all the folk villages dotting South Korea. Although it was built as a tourist attraction, it’s fully functional. Many of the employees dressed up as peasants and in...
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Posted by M.G. E. onto South Korea

Tony V.

Tony V. What a wonderful story M.G. And that photo is awesome!
Wine Barrel Tasting in Sonoma County Though Napa vineyards have a huge, well deserved following, some of us prefer the Sonoma County side of California wine country. And one of the best ways to explore the fruits of this region is the annual Wine Road Barrel Tasting Weekend in March. For two weekends, more than 100 wineries altogether open their doors to thousands of visitors bearing special wristbands and wine glasses to sample wines as they are being made. t’s a great way to learn about oenology from vintners of both well-known and uncommon brands as you taste your way through beverages from the barrel to the bottle. Each place is unique, and not just in the pinots, zinfandels and champagnes dispensed in decent doses. The settings and special event setups make each stop memorable, with some tasting rooms keeping to their rustic roots and others pulling out all the stops. Guests employ different strategies to maximize the highly affordable three-day fee, which in 2012 was $30 per weekend when purchased in advance and $40 at the door. Designated drivers get special wristbands, with their nominal fee donated to a local charity. Some take each day by region: the Russian River, Dry Creek and Alexander Valley. Others will park in, say, downtown Healdsburg and just walk their way through dozens of participating cellars over a one-, two- or three-day period. Our party of eight rented a limo so everyone could participate in the tastings, which allowed us to not waste time finding parking in crowded lots but also limited where we could go. Many of the participating wineries are too small to accommodate large crowds and let you know in advance if only smaller groups and cars are permitted. Even with the restrictions, though, we had plenty of places to choose from as we worked our way from a business park in Santa Rosa to the postcard-perfect hillsides of the Alexander Valley. After a pre-event private tour of relative upstart Siduri, which has been in business 15 years in the city of Santa Rosa, we officially started at Soda Rock Winery, a 150-year-old vineyard in the valley known for its Bordeaux varietals. You must pick your first stop in advance and everyone in the party shows at the same time with their paper tickets and ID. Next we hit up Trione, with its cozy outdoor lounge, and Clos du Bois, one of the better known brands on our self-selected itinerary. By this stop, we were able to pick up more subtle notes in the barrel selections and appreciate the special pricing on bottled versions, especially the Reserves that can be hard to find outside the area. At most places, you also can buy “futures” on current barrel samples by purchasing the wine at a discount and picking it up a year or so later when it’s bottled. Our fourth stop was Wilson, which had a great barbecue going and a running contest for the best of the new zin. And although advertised as a non-food event, we found every place we visited offered something small to enhance a wine’s flavors and help soak up some alcohol. One must-see, if you can, is Armida, with some of the most beautiful grounds and innovative displays. This is the place that features Heaven and Hell, with Heaven being the chardonney served by angels in a heavenly decorated room full of barrels. Hell was the dim, disco-lit cavern hosting the brand’s PoiZin labels. While we were there, the adjacent tasting room was buzzing (literally for some) after someone bought a $500 magnum — and opened it to enjoy on the spot. We ended the final hour at Walters Ranch Hop Kiln, which was packed and doing brisk business at checkout. Over the years, the annual Wine Barrel Tasting Weekends have grown in popularity, raising concern among locals about the drunken crowds that develop by day’s end. Whether you hit Wine Road for a special event such as the annual barrel tastings or create your own tour during a vacation or weekend trip, remember to pace yourself so you can truly savor every mouthful and every moment that the Sonoma side of wine country has to offer.
Wine Barrel Tasting in Sonoma County Though Napa vineyards have a huge, well deserved following, some of us prefer the Sonoma County side of California wine country. And one of the best ways to explore the fruits of this region is the annual Wine Road Barrel Tasting Weekend in March. For two weekends, more than 100 wineries altogether open their doors to thousands of visitors bearing special wristbands and wine glasses to sample wines as they are being made. t’s a great way to learn about...
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Posted by Anne S. onto Wine Trips

Yuventius T.

Yuventius T. Plan to go there next few year

Tony V.

Tony V. It's on my list for a visit. There are so many things to explore in Sonoma County and this is one of them. Love the story!

Lars S.

Lars S. I love the Napa Vally and the vineyards. Cool trip great story!
Lake Kivu straddles the border between Rwanda and The Democratic Republic of the Congo. It’s the 6th largest lake in Africa, and is surrounded by hills—some terraced, some thickly forested—with sandy bays where pelicans, cranes and malachite kingfishers fly about. There are ancient villages where the fishermen still go out in dugout canoes that have remained the same for years, centuries. Charter boat tours take tourists fishing, sightseeing, or for water sports on the lake’s crystal clear waters. It is known as one of Africa’s three “exploding lakes” (the other two being Lake Nyos and Lake Momun, in Cameroon). 55 billion cubic meters of dissolved methane are estimated to be in Lake Kivu at a depth of 300 meters. Sufficient volcanic interaction with nearby Mount Nyieragongo could heat up the lake’s bottom forcing methane out of the water and triggering a simultaneous release of carbon dioxide, which would suffocate people in the surrounding area. However because there is a shortage of electrical power throughout the country the government of Rwanda is setting up trial generators to run off the lake’s methane, thus putting the gas to good use. Tourists wanting to visit exciting Lake Kivu have several choices of places to stay. The Serena Hotel, just outside the town of Gisenyi, offers a swimming pool, health club, rooms and suites with voice-mail, AC power, satellite TV and WiFi, a restaurant and bar. <a href="http://www.serenahotels.com/contact-en.html">http://www.serenahotels.com/contact-en.html</a> There are other hotels in Gisenyi too. And if you go south to Kibuye there is a guest house over-looking “Alpine” pine-covered hills. It is always recommended to check into the political situation for this area before you make arrangements, though things have been fairly stabile in Rwanda lately.

Beautiful Lake Kivu in Africa

Lake Kivu straddles the border between Rwanda and The Democratic Republic of the Congo. It’s the 6th largest lake in Africa, and is surrounded by hills—some terraced, some thickly forested—with sandy bays where pelicans, cranes and malachite kingfishers fly about. There are ancient villages where the fishermen still go out in dugout canoes that have remained the same for years, centuries. Charter boat tours take tourists fishing, sightseeing, or for water sports on the lake’s crystal clear...
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Posted by Lars S. onto Africa
“Rolling Thunder” and their annual tribute to all the American war heroes who ended up as Prisoners of War (POWs) and soldiers Missing in Action (MIA). To fine out more about Rolling Thunder, and how to contact them, go to their website at: <a href="http://www.rollingthunderrun.com/">http://www.rollingthunderrun.com/</a>

The Rolling Thunder Tribute

“Rolling Thunder” and their annual tribute to all the American war heroes who ended up as Prisoners of War (POWs) and soldiers Missing in Action (MIA). To fine out more about Rolling Thunder, and how to contact them, go to their website at: http://www.rollingthunderrun.com/
Posted by Lars S. onto Washington DC
The National World War II Memorial is on the National Mall in Washington D.C., right beside the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. It consists of a large plaza and fountain in the middle of 56 pillars and a pair of arches dedicated to all the Americans involved in the Second World War. The Freedom Wall there has 4,048 gold stars, each one a symbol of 100 of the Americans who died in that war. Construction was started under President Clinton. It was finally opened in 2004 by President George W. Bush.

World War II Memorial-Wasington, D.C.

The National World War II Memorial is on the National Mall in Washington D.C., right beside the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. It consists of a large plaza and fountain in the middle of 56 pillars and a pair of arches dedicated to all the Americans involved in the Second World War. The Freedom Wall there has 4,048 gold stars, each one a symbol of 100 of the Americans who died in that war. Construction was started under President Clinton. It was finally opened in 2004 by...
Posted by Lars S. onto Washington DC
All U.S. Presidents live in The White House, and have since 1800. Although the original construction began under George Washington in 1790, it was John Adams and his wife, Abigail, who were the first to actually move in. Each of the different presidents and their families living there affected changes to the building and its 18 acres of grounds. And the building also suffered two very serious fires. So it’s now much different than it was 200 years ago. When John F. Kennedy was there his wife started growing roses in the garden, and now the Jacqueline Kennedy Rose Garden borders the East Colonnade. Michelle Obama has planted the first organic garden, and set up bee hives, to provide organic food and honey for White House meals. Initially the White House was open to the public, but the crowds got to be so enormous this was curtailed after Abraham Lincoln’s term. For more details, maps, information about tours, etc., visit <a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov">www.whitehouse.gov</a>/

The White House

All U.S. Presidents live in The White House, and have since 1800. Although the original construction began under George Washington in 1790, it was John Adams and his wife, Abigail, who were the first to actually move in. Each of the different presidents and their families living there affected changes to the building and its 18 acres of grounds. And the building also suffered two very serious fires. So it’s now much different than it was 200 years ago. When John F. Kennedy was there his...
Posted by Lars S. onto Washington DC
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