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Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label travel. Show all posts

Saturday, September 7, 2024

Wonders of Nature: Blue Mushrooms

I thought I knew all about mushrooms. I knew there are some that you can eat and some that are poisonous and some can get you high! LOL. 🍄😄 I also knew that illustrators loved to draw pretty mushrooms as houses in fairy tales. So I figured if I ever saw a blue mushroom it would have to be an imaginary one in a fairy tale, fantasy or science fiction story. 

NOT! In New Zealand, there is the E. hochstetteri. It's a blue mushroom.

Of course! I would expect to find something like that in New Zealand. Wouldn't you? I never traveled to this country. I have only seen it on television and in photographs, so I know it's an amazingly beautiful place.

This mushroom is actually mentioned in the oral traditions passed down in Māori families. Fungi play a prominent part in Māori life. The mushroom's blue hues vary from blue-gray to cerulean to the color of blue raspberry candy.

Mycologists generally consider E. hochstetteri to be a distinct species.

Some researchers have tried to grow these mushrooms in a lab, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

Just in case you're wondering. These mushrooms are not for trippin'. They are not psychedelic mushrooms and won't send you to Cloud 9. That note is good to know because there are some mind-bending mushrooms that turn blue after being harvested. But the E. hochstetteri grows blue and does not have psilocybin, the chemical that alters your consciousness.

These little blue mushrooms really add to the natural beauty of the already beautiful New Zealand’s forests. But nobody has quite figured out their scientific purpose.

REFERENCE:

Get to Know New Zealand's Hugely Popular, Thrillingly Blue Mushroom - Atlas Obscura

New Zealand mushroom

FINAL NOTE:

Scientists are uncertain about the toxicity of the native New Zealand fungi/ and it is being investigated. In other words: DON'T EAT IT!! (YET!)

In the process of researching this topic, I discovered that there are other blue mushrooms. Do not confuse the E. hochstetteri of New Zealand with the Lactarius indigo. This is a species of agaric fungus in the family Russulaceae. Some people call this mushroom indigo milk cap or the blue milk mushroom. YOU CAN EAT IT!! It is edible mushroom and they sell it in rural markets in China, Guatemala, and Mexico.

* Learn more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lactarius_indigo

mushroom

SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL MUSHROOM MONTH!

Original source

Friday, May 10, 2024

Travel and Vacation: Explore the City Rome: Where to Go and What to See (Guest Post)

The Eternal City Rome is home to more than 3 million people and rises from the Lazio region of west central Italy. Cradled between the Apennines and the Tyrrhenian Sea.


According to legend, Rome was founded by twin brothers, Romulus and Remus, 700 years before the birth of Jesus Christ. And it was here, on Palatine Hill, that the foundations of the city were laid. A city that would soon become the Capital of the World.

Even today, the atmosphere of Roman times could be felt throughout the city.




Colosseum in Rome: symbol of ancient Rome

Surviving earthquakes and centuries of stone thieves, the magnificent Colosseum remains the most enduring symbol of Ancient Rome. The impressive structure is still in very good condition, you just need a little imagination to frame images of gladiators in battle. Over four centuries, tens of thousands of gladiators, slaves, and Christians died in a blaze of glory.

The Colosseum at night is pleasing to the eye, during the summer it is now possible to see the Colosseum at night on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Make sure to buy your Colosseum tickets in advance during the planning stage of your Rome vacation, otherwise you’ll have to queue for a long time.


Roman Forum

Beneath the birthplace of Rome is the Roman Forum - the Roman Forum filled with temples, monuments and markets.The Forum was the center of public life in Ancient Rome and the most famous meeting place in the world, and was the heart of the city. . When the Roman Empire fell in the fifth century, the forum was reduced to a meadow of cows; a mere orchard. But, the eight columns of the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Septimius refused to crumble.

In the 17th century, young European travelers came to Rome in search of the roots of Western civilization. This hunger for the antiquities of Rome led to their preservation. And yet, travelers come from all over the world. The Roman Forum is very close to the Colosseum in Rome.


The Pantheon: the place to worship

On the nearby Arch of Constantine, an inscription bears the words, inspired by the divine. The Pantheon, one of the oldest Roman buildings, was a place to worship all the gods, from Juno, the god of fertility, to Mars, the god of war.

Pass under the central oculus of the dome and stand in the same divine light that has bathed emperors, gladiators, merchants, and travelers for nearly two millennia.


Toss the coin in the Trevi Fountain

Located in the center of the city hidden in the labyrinth of Small Street is the Trevi Fountain. No Roman holiday is complete without making a wish at the Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin in Trevi and one day you’ll be back in Rome (it can be another relaxing city break in Rome). Flip two coins and you will fall in love with a Roman. After flipping coins, you can relax on the steps with a scoop of ice cream, the city’s famous ice cream.


World’s largest church St. Peter’s Basilica

Rome may no longer be the capital of the world, but it has long been the center of Christianity. Today, modern pilgrims continue to cross the river, guided by the angel of the bridge as they make their way to one of the great squares of the world.


Piazza Saint Pietro, Saint Peter’s Square.

And here is the largest church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica. Filled with masterpieces by Bernini, Giotto, Raphael, Saint Peter’s crowning glory is its dome, designed by the brightest star of the Renaissance, Michelangelo.

From the dome you can see the holy square where two colonnades extend like open arms to welcome the faithful who gather by the thousands to receive the blessings of the Pope. This Vatican City is the seat of the Catholic Church and the home of the Pope.


Piazza Navona is one of the great squares of Europe

Once a stadium, today Piazza Navona is one of the great squares in Europe. The crowds and thunderous carts have long faded replaced by a trio of fountains, baroque architecture, artists, and the aroma of Rome’s best coffee.


Traditional Roman cuisine near the Tiber river

As the sun sets over Rome, head to the island sanctuary of Isola Tiberina. Let the rushing water of the River Tiber soothe your senses and indulge in authentic Roman cuisine that has been perfected by generations of Italian grandmothers and great-grandmothers. This is just a highlight. Really tasting all of Rome’s treasures can take a lifetime. But Rome only needs a moment for you to fall in love with it, so be prepared.


Shopping in Rome

During your relaxing vacation in Rome, if you are planning or have already planned to do some shopping, you will find designer stores with all the famous brands such as Zara, Gucci, Prada, etc.



Original Source (annelouis24.tumblr.com)





Monday, November 6, 2023

Travel and Vacation: Do You Like Mountains?

I'm not really into mountains but Helen, Georgia has captured my attention.  This is the description provided by the article writer:

“Sitting on the cusp of the Blue Ridge Mountains (a segment of the Appalachians) in northeast Georgia, Helen oozes charm. With cobblestone streets, mountain cabins, and painted buildings, you'll feel like you stepped out of Georgia and into a European alpine village. Its location makes it a desirable year-round destination.”

Doesn't that sound like fun??

Helen, Georgia

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If you're coming to America OR you already live in America ...

AND you like mountains, then … 

“The Best Mountain Towns in America | The Discoverer” 

  1. Asheville, North Carolina
  2. Helen, Georgia (Image)
  3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
  4. McCall, Idaho
  5. Taos, New Mexico
  6. Telluride, Colorado
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1. Asheville, North Carolina:

  • Natural Beauty: Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning scenery with lush forests, rolling hills, and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

  • Outdoor Activities: It's a hub for outdoor enthusiasts with hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting opportunities.

  • Cultural Scene: The town is known for its vibrant arts and music scene, including the famous Biltmore Estate.

2. Helen, Georgia:

  • Scenic Charm: Helen is famous for its Bavarian-inspired architecture and setting in the Appalachian Mountains, making it a picturesque and unique mountain town.

  • Recreational Activities: The area offers hiking, river tubing, and access to Unicoi State Park.

  • Festivals and Events: Helen hosts various cultural events, including Oktoberfest celebrations.

3. Jackson Hole, Wyoming:

  • Iconic Beauty: Jackson Hole is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Grand Teton National Park and nearby Yellowstone National Park.

  • Outdoor Adventures: It's a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, offering world-class skiing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and more.

  • Western Charm: The town has a charming, western ambiance with a rich cowboy and ranching heritage.

4. McCall, Idaho:

  • Lakes and Mountains: McCall is surrounded by pristine Payette Lake and the rugged Salmon River Mountains, providing ample opportunities for water and mountain activities.

  • Outdoor Recreation: Residents and visitors can enjoy boating, skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking in the area.

  • Relaxed Atmosphere: McCall offers a laid-back, small-town feel with a strong sense of community.

4. Taos, New Mexico:

  • Unique Culture: Taos is known for its distinctive Pueblo-style architecture and strong Native American and Hispanic influences.

  • Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos offers spectacular vistas and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.

  • Artistic Community: It's a haven for artists and artisans, with a thriving art scene.

5. Telluride, Colorado:

  • Majestic Setting: Telluride is situated in a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains, providing an awe-inspiring alpine environment.

  • Skiing Paradise: It's famous for its world-class skiing, with the Telluride Ski Resort attracting winter sports enthusiasts.

  • Cultural Festivals: Telluride hosts numerous cultural events, including the Telluride Film Festival and Bluegrass Festival.

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Friday, June 2, 2023

There are So Many Places to Visit in Italy ~ Here's My List

In the USA, the month of October is Italian-American Heritage Month.  I say any month is a good month and see no reason not to celebrate Italy NOW!! ☺  They came to America from Italy.  So let's see where they came from.


Anybody who has visited Italy may have started their exploration in the ruins of ancient Rome but if they planned their trip well, they took in the sights in many of this country's remarkable cities:  Naples, Venice, Verona, etc.








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My Dream Travel Bucket List Includes 4 African Countries

Starting in 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous travel bans or restrictions have been implemented by various countries. Both the airlines and the cruise lines have taken heavy hits financially and are taking desperate measures in the hopes that they will recover. Still! That doesn’t stop many people from dreaming and making up travel bucket lists of places they’d like to see. 

Casablanca
Image credit:  Amazon.com

In the USA, in March 2020, the pandemic was announced. If you do a generic online search of the phrase “travel bucket list”, you will find people still publishing their lists. In fact, I’ve seen some lists that specifically indicate that these are “Post-COVID” travel wishes. Why not? If there had been an Internet during the Black Plague of the 1300s that affected Europe, you would probably have found bucket lists. An article published by Scientific American stated that Europeans survived the Black Death and those survivors lived even longer. Don’t you imagine that those survivors probably wanted to see another part of the world after that experience?

Most of us want to be optimistic about this modern-day plague and believe that one day, hopefully soon, the world will once again be our “oyster”; even if we are already senior citizens. I have always admired people who were 70+ years of age and still traveling the world. They planned out the places they would visit during retirement and they’re loving it!

So below is a quick list of 4 countries in Africa that are on my bucket list. How did I decide on these locations? I have either met someone from that country, online or in person. I figure if the rest of the citizens are as nice as they are, that’s a place I’d like to see. I might have become fascinated after watching a movie that was filmed on location in that country. It could be that I found a YouTube music video and loved the music or I watched a cooking show that showcased the cuisine from that country and my mouth started watering. It’s one of those reasons.

  1. Botswana

  2. Cameroon

  3. Ethiopia

  4. Morocco

Image credit:  Amazon.com

Botswana: Met a blogger who writes about all the various tourist destinations in this country (yourbotswana.com). The blog post I liked the most was the “photo safari”. People don’t go on safari to shoot the animals. They go to shoot photographs. Also, there is a movie about this country which stars two of my favorite actors: David Oyelowo, and Rosamund Pike. It’s a true love story between an African prince and a British citizen, and in addition to learning about how these two managed to have a successful marriage, against all odds, the film teaches the viewer a lot about the history of Botswana.


Botswana | History - Geography | Britannica

Botswana Tourism Organisation | Official Site of Botswana

15 reasons to visit Botswana – YourBotswana


Cameroon: Met a stranger at a gas station in America. He was very nice, had a delightful accent when he spoke, and I could tell by his clothing that probably wasn’t from ’round here. He needed some assistance at the gas pump and I helped him out. We had a short conversation and I asked him where he was from. He said he was visiting from Cameroon. He filled up his car and I told him that I hoped his stay in America would be pleasant. Off he went. But I couldn’t help but wonder if the folks from Cameroon were as nice as he was. Years later I was watching a musical TV show and the host had invited a guest to sing with him and also play the guitar. The music was amazing. The guest entertainer was from Cameroon and his name is Richard Bona. If you have not heard him perform, you are missing an amazing talent!


Cameroon | Culture, History, & People | Britannica

Cameroon Travel Advisory – travel.gov


Ethiopia: The most outstanding fact about this African country’s history is the fact that they were never colonized by the Europeans. Another fascinating fact is the “Jewish connection”. Some people say that Solomon, the famous Jewish king has a relationship with Sheba, one of the queens of Ethiopia. From that relationship, a child was born. When the queen returned to her own country, it is believed that she was a convert to the Jewish religion and that she raised her son in the Jewish faith. That story is not in the Jewish scriptures, i.e. Old Testament. But nobody has come up with a different explanation for how there came to be practicing Jews in Ethiopia. Today, there are thousands of Ethiopian Jews who willingly relocated to Israel to live. My curiosity is piqued. Last but not least there is a TV cooking show called “No Passport Required”. The host Marcus Samuelsson is from Ethiopia and for one of his shows, he spotlighted the people from Ethiopia who had made their way to America and were living in Washington, D.C., but still maintained their heritage and traditions; particularly, through their food (4).


Ethiopia | History, Capital, Map, Population, & Facts | Britannica

Ethiopia Travel Advisory - travel.gov


Morocco: Casablanca is a city in Morocco. Tell me who would not want to visit Morocco after watching Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in the movie Casablanca? In case you have not watched this 1942 Hollywood movie, it is a movie based on true events. The movie won the best movie award and the director won the best director award at the Oscars.


Morocco | History, Map, Flag, Capital, & Facts | Britannica

Moroccan National Tourist Office: Travel to Morocco - Official


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So that’s it!

Of course, this bucket list is based on the assumption that there is peace in the land, no political and social upheavals going on, no major natural disasters have occurred or are predicted to occur, crime is not rampant, it's not dangerous to go there in terms of one's health, and … there is Internet access!

Do you agree with my travel bucket list of African countries?

If not. which African countries would you recommend?

♦ ♦ ♦

Source Credit: Content first published at ArticleWritingJobs.com. It has been revised, updated, and republished at Read.Cash.

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Artists I Fancy: Venice in Beautiful Color Images 125 Years Ago | Open Culture

Historical photography.  Below is a view of the Rialto Bridge, which spans one of the city's famous canals; Venice, 125 years ago.  Though not "real" color photographs, they have been colorized and as such more accurately reflect a lively period in late 19th-century Europe.  The Library of Congress' page on the photocrom process explains it: "Photochrom prints are ink-based images produced through 'the direct photographic transfer of an original negative onto litho and chromographic printing plates.'"  

Have you always wanted to visit Venice?

Wouldn't it be even more interesting to travel back in time and visit 19th century Venice?

You can do so through this wonderful collection of photographs.


Venice in Beautiful Color Images 125 Years Ago:
The Rialto Bridge, St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace & More


Thursday, September 8, 2022

Travel and History: Ten Facts About the Republic of Turkey

When you travel it is good to know historical facts.  Modern-day Turkey, officially the Republic of Turkey, is a country strategically located between Europe and Asia, and its leaders have an integral role on the world stage. The Asian part of Turkey was at one time called Asia Minor and was a part of the ancient Roman empire. Later, Turkey became part of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Its historically religious, political, and cultural significance, including the fact that its largest city was once the capital of three empires ~ Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman ~ should not be discounted or minimized. The heritage of Turkey and its influence in today’s political and economic arena are intricately woven into world history and world affairs.


♦ Here are TEN FACTS About the Republic of Turkey:
  1. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk is revered as the founder of the Republic of Turkey and is also called the “Father of the Turks”.
  2. The founder of the Republic of Turkey was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1934.
  3. The current capital city of Turkey is Ankara.
  4. Istanbul was once the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.
  5. Istanbul was once historically known by the name Constantinople.
  6. “Turkey entered World War II in 1945 on the side of the Allies, who secured an agreement that Turkey would become a democracy.”
  7. Even though Britain or the UK has voted to exit the EU (“Brexit”), Turkey wishes to be accepted as a member state of the European Union (EU).
  8. NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is an international alliance between European and North American countries and Turkey is a member state.
  9. Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Galata Tower are all famous buildings in Turkey; must-see places for any traveler or visitor. Topkapi Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
  10. GoTurkeyTourism published a list of Turkey’s 10 most popular cities that attract tourists; 5 inland cities and 5 coastal cities. Even though Cappadocia is located in Central Turkey and is mentioned in the Bible, this city was NOT on their list.
Content previously published at Virily.com


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Tuesday, August 9, 2022

Travel Destinations: Where to Stop While You're Searching for the Holy Grail

As with many of the world religions and faiths, myths arise about them which are not found in the teachings or the doctrine. But because many people have a fascination with ancient relics and think they might supernatural powers, people go hunting for them. 

Are you familiar with the myth of the Holy Grail? The Holy Grail is supposedly the cup which was used by Jesus at His Last Supper before His death by crucifixion. It is said that Jesus drank from this cup and also passed it to the apostles and the drank from it. This began the Christian tradition known as “The Lord's Supper” or some also call it “Holy Communion”. This myth started about 8 centuries ago and it has persisted. People want to find it!

Depiction of King Arthur's knights seeing a vision of the Holy Grailgathered 
at the Round Table. Evrard d'Espinques/Public Domain.

To this day nobody has found it and even if they did, I am not sure how they would prove it's the real thing. But that doesn't stop people from searching. Even if they never find it, there are six (6) interesting places that they can visit along the way.

  1. Holy Chalice of Valencia Chapel, Valencia, Spain

  2. Monastery of San Juan de la PeĂąa. Atlas Obscura user philoursmars.

  3. Chalice Well at Glastonbury. Rbe2057/CC BY-SA 4.0.

  4. Château de MontsÊgur, MontsÊgur, France

  5. Rosslyn Chapel, Roslin, Scotland

  6. Western Wall Tunnel, Jerusalem, Israel


REFERENCE:  6 Stops on the Hunt for the Holy Grail 


Saturday, May 21, 2022

Historical Places : Sea of Galilee

Almost everybody has heard of the Sea of Galilee; especially Christians. It would be no surprise if most people who profess to be believers in Jesus Christ have this place on their list of dream travel destinations.  Some of the apostles were fishermen by occupation and they made their living by fishing in the Sea of Galilee. 

But would you believe it? In 2010, fishing was banned in the Sea of Galilee. The Israeli government stated that chronic over-fishing had severely depleted stocks. The ban was to be in effect for 2 years. 

In 2013, they dumped several thousand fish into the lake. The type of fish were tilapia and silver carp which were expected to increase the lake’s biodiversity and clear its waters of toxins. In 2020 it was reported that the lake (sea) had dried up because of a drought; and then it swelled up because the drought was followed by wet winters. Per a report dated April 15, 2022, Israel was going to give the Sea of Galilee an “extreme makeover” by filling the lake with excess output from desalination plants.

Image credit: Fishing in the Sea of Galilee | Israel Inside Out 

It's a technicality but the Sea of Galilee is not really a sea. It's a lake; a freshwater lake. Israel's largest freshwater lake to be precise.  It is also known by the following alternate names:

• Lake Tiberias
• Sea of Tiberias
• Lake of Gennesaret
• Lake Kinneret
• The Kinneret

FUN FACT: In ancient times. there were three (3) types of fish mainly caught by fishermen: sardines; barbels; and musht or tilapia (the 'Galilean tilapia' is known today as “St. Peter’s Fish”).

It's 2022. Fishing is being allowed in the Sea of Galilee. The original St. Peter’s fish in the Sea of Galilee cannot be found anymore. However, there are 18 species of fish indigenous in the Sea, which includes tilapia, sardine, and catfish.







Monday, May 16, 2022

Croatia is My Dream Travel Destination. Want to Know Why?

I have not traveled anywhere in over 20 years.  Before I stopped traveling, I had visited different cities in the USA and two countries: The Bahamas and Mexico.  Those are the only 2 places I have been outside of America.  But that has never stopped me from dreaming of places I would love to visit outside of America.

The short title for my bucket list is “Dream Travel Destinations”.  The full title of my list is “Places I Will Only Ever Visit In My Dreams”.

Croatia is a country on my bucket list of Dream Travel Destinations.



Why Croatia?

Well, for one thing, their flag is the same colors as the USA: red, white, and blue.

The other reason is that I’ve seen photographs of this country and the scenery is incredibly beautiful.

Here is a fun fact that I just learned about Croatia.  I would not have known this because … I know everybody will gasp in shock when I say this … but I’ve never seen a single episode of “Game of Thrones”.  Yes I know this drama series is immensely popular and that everybody watches it faithfully, they know all of the characters, they understand the story line, etc.  But uuhh … yeah! I missed that fantasy fan boat.

Now I’m a tad bit upset with myself because I found out that many of the filming locations for the Game of Thrones were in Croatia! That means that I could have visited Croatia, the land in my dreams, possibly every time an episode was aired.  But all is not lost.  Saw an advertisement that said a person would stream free episodes.  Perhaps I’ll put GoT on my “Binge-Watch List”.

SAD NOTE MARCH 22, 2020:  News reports on this date indicated that Croatia has not only been affected by the COVID-19 virus but also by an earthquake.  So not only am I dreaming of Croatia but praying for the people as well.  No doubt the citizens of this lovely country want to resume the lifestyle they had which made me dream of one day visiting them.


Original content source: Virily.com








Monday, May 2, 2022

Operation Wanderlust ~ Mission: Satisfy Travel Desires

Wanderlust is defined as “a strong desire to travel”.

But travel for me these days is out of the question. (For private reasons which I choose not to disclose.) All I can say is that we should all thank the Lord for being able to partially satisfy our wanderlust through virtual travel and the Internet. :)
One of my hobbies is collecting outstanding photographs by talented photographers. It's great that there are sites like Pinterest and Tumblr and Flipboard where you can organize your photo findings and share them with others.   :)
Speaking of Flipboard … I received an eMail that my flips have a new follower.  Checked to see who and it turns out its a couple of “Award-winning travel photographers from Wisconsin” who can help me fully satisfy my wanderlust!  YAY!

Divergent Travelers


Through their photographs, I have already visited some lovely spots here on planet earth.

7 Exotic Places You Can Visit Without a US Passport

Fortunately, one of the exotic places I have traveled to on business more than once. Puerto Rico.  Yes DT.  You are correct.  PR does have a “culture all its own”.   :)

Is Jordan Safe to Visit?

Terrified of traveling to the Middle East thanks to all the news broadcasts via mainstream U.S. media. But if I were to travel there are two Middle Eastern countries that would be on my list. One is Israel. The other is Jordan. Would love to see where Jesus walked. :)
Divergent Travelers shares pics from almost everywhere in the world.   They get around!  New Zealand, Southeast Asia, the Maldives, Germany, Tibet, Morocco, etc.  Check out their 20 Flipboard magazines or go straight to their website!
There are no photos from other planets in the universe.  However, I read somewhere that there are groups of people making plans to travel into outer space. Space exploration is not just for astronauts anymore.

Bet if the Diligent Travelers went with those space travelers they would bring back unbelievable photographs!   :)

1

Monday, August 2, 2021

Saint Peter Claver's Church in Cartagena, Columbia

If you plan to visit Cartagena, Columbia, there are many forts to see. There are statues of Christopher Columbus and uuhhh … “a fat lady”. (O.o)  But if you have limited time and must choose between the forts and the statues and visiting Saint Peter Claver's church, visit the church. 

The scriptures say “Give honor to who honor is due.” Peter Claver (1581 – 1654) was a Spanish priest. His physical remains still lie in the church. This man is to be remembered and honored for his efforts to abolish slavery. The Pope condemned it, but Peter Claver made a determined and consciious effort to do something about it. He worked tirelessly at this goal for 40 years. He was so relentless, he was given the title of “apostle of the Negroes.” Finally, 200 years later, in 1851 president JosĂŠ Hilario LĂłpez signed the law that abolished slavery in Colombia.

Things to Do in Cartagena Colombia - Maximize One Day in Cartagena





Saturday, June 26, 2021

Why You Should Pick Florida and the Bahamas for Vacation

Planning a vacation? Need suggestions? How about South Florida and The Bahamas? They both have beautiful beaches. Isn't that enticement enough?

I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. My husband and father are both from The Bahamas, a country right next door to Florida. For those who are planning a vacation, I usually tell them to go to South Florida. Specifically, they should go to Miami, Florida and The Florida Keys. Then I advise them: “While you're there since you're close, you might as well go over to The Bahamas.” It's a half-hour plane ride. Some people fly over and come back in the same day. Others take a 1-day cruise. I don't recommend it. Hey! It's a vacation! Why rush? Of course, if you don't want to leave the country you could stay in Florida, drive up to Orlando, and visit Disney World. How fun is that?



Here are some interesting and fun facts about Florida and The Bahamas. When you travel, it's good to know a little bit of history or trivia about the places you will visit. Somehow you appreciate the visit a lot more. At least I think so.

About The Bahamas

Christopher Columbus was an “accidental Bahamian tourist”. He wasn't really looking for these islands. “Long Island is where Columbus anchored the Santa Maria when he discovered the island in 1492.” (Quote Source)After the American War of Independence, thousands of pro-British loyalists and enslaved Africans moved to the Bahamas and set up a plantation economy.”

This fact makes me laugh and makes me cry. First of all, if you are “enslaved” you don't really have much of a choice about where you're “moved”. That's the part that makes me cry. On the other hand, the part that makes me laugh is … if I am being an eternal optimist no matter what my circumstances, to end up in a country as beautiful as The Bahamas, slave or not, I'd have to say “Well alright!” Sunshine! Pink sand. Turquoise blue waters. Excellent diving and fishing! Hey! It's not like I was moved to Siberia! Besides. A few decades after that move, slavery was abolished. A couple of centuries later, The Bahamas became an independent nation just like America.

About South Florida

Miami is a hot spot. There's nothing I could say that a bazillion people have not already said except that I loved growing up in that city. My memories are blessings.

Some have likened the Florida Keys to an “American Bahamas”. I disagree but totally understand why the comparison was made. The Florida Keys and The Bahamas are very much alike. Jerry Wilkinson published a very informative article titled “History Of The Bahamas” where he explains the similarities. Both places were inhabited by indigenous Indians and after the American Revolution, some English loyalists moved to the Keys and settled there.

So what do you think about these vacation suggestions?

Are South Florida and The Bahamas on your bucket list of "Places to Visit"?



Original Source

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