Joie de Vivre Magazine: travel and vacation

Showing posts with label travel and vacation. Show all posts

Monday, March 16, 2026

Travel and Vacation: South Dakota is a Great Place for Vacation

It’s easy to find articles trying to entice people to relocate to North Dakota. Like this one published by Livability: 8 Reasons to Move to North Dakota. You get no argument from me PRO or CON. North Dakota might be the best state in the USA to live in. But I think that South Dakota is a great place to VACATION!! Specifically, Black Hills, South Dakota.

For personal reasons, I no longer travel. But if I did, this state would have a spot on my bucket list. Even though I have never been to either of the Dakotas, I believe I can provide some convincing arguments that might persuade someone who was planning a vacation to visit Black Hills.

Sacred Ground for the Native Americans

The Black Hills, called “Paha Sapa” by the Native Americans, is considered sacred ground to many tribes across the country. The Lakota Nation believes all life comes from “Paha Sapa”, and they fought fiercely to protect it during the Indian Wars of the 1800s. One of the most sacred places is Bear Butte in the northern Black Hills. This formation of magma never erupted and looks like a giant sleeping bear. Now a state park, Bear Butte is still used as a place of worship for more than 60 Native American tribes. More than 62,000 Native Americans currently live in South Dakota.

“South Dakota Travel Guide – Wikitravel.” Free Worldwide Travel Guides – Wikitravel.Web. 04 Apr. 2011.

History of Black Hills

1874 Gold was found in the Black Hills (part of the “Great Sioux-Reservation” in South Dakota). The government planned a separation from the reservation and an immediate relocation of the inhabitants of this area. This led to the Indian Wars.

1876 Little Big Horn: a battle between Indian armed forces (under Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull) and the 7th U.S. cavalry regiment (under Colonel Custer). It was the last and most striking military success for the American Indians.

“American Indians Today/History of the American Indians from the 19th Century to the 21st – Wikibooks, Open Books for an Open World.” Wikibooks. Web. 04 Apr. 2011.

Famous Tourist Attraction: Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore is one of the United States’ most famous attractions for both U.S. citizens and foreigners. This epic sculpture features the faces of four exalted American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. South Dakota’s Black Hills provide the backdrop for Mount Rushmore, the world’s greatest mountain carving. These 60-foot high faces, 500 feet up, look out over a setting of pine, spruce, birch, and aspen in the clear western air.

“Mount Rushmore – Shrine Of Democracy – South Dakota Tourism.” South Dakota Tourism – Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse, Badlands NationalPark, Deadwood, Black Hills. Web. 04 Apr. 2011.

Great Family Vacation!

Get more info.

5 Black Hills Towns to Base your South Dakota Vacation

Have you ever considered going on vacation to Black Hills, South Dakota?

~~Content previously published at RationalMind.club~~

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Five (5) Reasons to Add Busan, South Korea, To Your Travel Bucket List

Watching certain Korean dramas makes you curious about the location. For me, it was the gritty realism and emotional storytelling of the Friend trilogy that sparked a deep curiosity about Busan. The films captured a city that felt raw yet beautiful, tough yet tender. Here are five compelling reasons to move Busan to the top of your travel bucket list.

AI image of Haedong Yonggungsa Temple

Reason 1. Stunning Coastal Scenery

Busan’s coastal landscape is nothing short of breathtaking. Unlike many major cities that turn inward, Busan opens itself to the sea. Dramatic cliffs meet rolling waves, and walking paths trace the shoreline with panoramic views at every turn.

Spots like the Oryukdo Skywalk and Igidae Coastal Walk offer sweeping vistas of the Korea Strait, while seaside parks provide peaceful corners to sit and watch fishing boats drift across the horizon. Whether you’re catching sunrise over the water or admiring the city lights reflecting on the ocean at night, Busan delivers postcard-worthy scenery in every season.

Reason 2. Beautiful Beaches With a Relaxed Vibe

When most people think of South Korea, beaches may not be the first image that comes to mind — but Busan will change that. The city is home to some of the country’s most beloved stretches of sand.

Haeundae Beach is perhaps the most famous, drawing visitors with its wide shoreline, summer festivals, and vibrant nightlife. For a slightly more laid-back atmosphere, Gwangalli Beach offers soft sand paired with stunning views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge after sunset.

Despite their popularity, Busan’s beaches maintain a relaxed, welcoming feel. Locals stroll along the boardwalk, couples linger over coffee at seaside cafés, and street performers add energy without overwhelming the space. It’s easy to spend hours simply soaking in the rhythm of the waves.

Reason 3. Fresh Seafood & Bustling Markets

As a major port city, Busan is synonymous with seafood, and experiencing it here is unforgettable. The lively Jagalchi Fish Market is the heart of the city’s culinary culture. Vendors display tanks filled with live fish, crab, and shellfish, calling out daily specials to curious visitors.

You can select your seafood downstairs and have it prepared upstairs within minutes — as sashimi, grilled, or simmered in spicy stew. It’s as fresh as it gets.

Beyond seafood, Busan’s markets are a feast for all the senses. Traditional street foods like hotteok (sweet pancakes) and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) tempt passersby, while colorful stalls showcase everything from handmade goods to regional specialties. Exploring these markets offers a glimpse into everyday life — lively, flavorful, and wonderfully authentic.

Reason 4. Rich History, Vibrant Culture & Unique Attractions

Busan beautifully balances modern innovation with deep-rooted tradition.

On the contemporary side, the Sky Capsule ride along the coast provides Instagram-worthy views in brightly colored pods gliding above the shoreline. Seasonal drone light shows illuminate the night sky with choreographed displays, reflecting the city’s forward-thinking spirit.

Yet tradition is never far away. The serene Haedong Yonggungsa temple sits dramatically on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea — a rare coastal Buddhist temple that feels both powerful and peaceful. Wandering through its ornate gates and stone lanterns offers a quiet contrast to the city’s buzz.

For a dose of artistic charm, Gamcheon Culture Village enchants visitors with its pastel-painted houses, winding alleyways, and vibrant murals. Once a hillside refuge during the Korean War, it has transformed into a colorful cultural hub filled with galleries and cafés.

Busan’s layered identity — shaped by war, resilience, art, and ambition — makes it far more than just a beach destination.

Reason 5. Iconic Landmarks & Impressive Architecture

From towering bridges to cinematic skylines, Busan’s landmarks leave a lasting impression. The diamond-shaped façade of Busan Cinema Center honors the city’s role as host of the Busan International Film Festival, one of Asia’s most prestigious film events.

At night, the city truly sparkles. The illuminated Gwangan Bridge stretches gracefully across the water, while high-rise buildings line the coast in a display of sleek, modern design. It’s a skyline that feels both dynamic and distinctly maritime — urban sophistication meeting ocean breeze.

BONUS: No Zombies

(Humorous reference to the popular pulse-pounding horror thriller Train to Busan.)

AI image of night view of Gwangan Bridge

From cinematic roots to coastal charm, Busan captures the imagination long after the credits roll. Whether you’re drawn by its beaches, intrigued by its history, or simply craving unforgettable seafood by the sea, this vibrant port city promises an experience that is both dynamic and deeply memorable.

As highlighted in “Exploring Korea: 10 Reasons Why Busan Is Famous.” | Stripes Korea.

Busan’s blend of culture, cuisine, and coastline makes it one of South Korea’s most compelling travel destinations.

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

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 historical, 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:

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is revered as the founder of the Republic of Turkey and is also called the “Father of the Turks”.
The founder of the Republic of Turkey was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1934.
The current capital city of Turkey is Ankara.
Istanbul was once the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman.
Istanbul was once historically known by the name Constantinople.
“Turkey entered World War II in 1945 on the side of the Allies, who secured an agreement that Turkey would become a democracy.”
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).
NATO (the North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is an international alliance between European and North American countries and Turkey is a member state.
Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Galata Tower are all famous buildings in Turkey; must-see places for any traveler or visitor. The Topkapi Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
The Independent published a list of Turkey’s 7 most popular cities that attract tourists. 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.)

Monday, October 13, 2025

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(dot)tumblr(dot)com~~) This writer wrote this post for my blog and then disappeared. (?)

Thursday, June 26, 2025

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 on 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"? If not, others have suggestions too. See below.

Hunter, Scenic. “12 Must See Bucket List Destinations To Visit Before You Die.” YouTube, 10 May 2025, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSfH5ACHBxQ.

Amazon Basics 26" Hardside Medium Checked #Luggage, Hardshell Suitcase W/ Wheels, Expandable For Up to 15% More Space, W/ Scratch-Resistant Surface, Four Multi-directional Wheels | Carry-Ons https://t.co/MxuNldEwXl
Practical #travel #gift.
"sturdy, lightweight, & functional" pic.twitter.com/ND86FRylz7
— My Shopping Channel (@goshoppingbees) December 15, 2025

(NOTE: Content also appears on Read.Cash.)

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

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

SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL MUSHROOM MONTH!

Original source

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??

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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”

Asheville, North Carolina
Helen, Georgia (Image)
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
McCall, Idaho
Taos, New Mexico
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.

13 of the #BestPlacestoVisit in #Italy | WanderWisdom
~ https://t.co/qcDzsk4HG1 ~ #Travel #vacation #BucketList #traveltips #Rome #AmalfiCoast #Florence #Tuscany #CinqueTerre #Venice #LakeComo #Sicily #Capri #Dolomites #Milan #Sorrento pic.twitter.com/9QJOLXQln5
— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) January 20, 2020

Top 10 Things to Do in Sorrento, #Italy | WanderWisdom https://t.co/NFbgJWed74 ~ "Just across the Bay from Naples lies the Sorrentine Peninsula, perhaps the most stunning stretch of coastline anywhere in the world." #travel #vacation #Europe #BucketList pic.twitter.com/EI6lqBcMhU
— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) January 20, 2020

A Quick Guide To Naples, Italy | HubPages https://t.co/dUYwadZOON ~ Of course, you're going to Naples for the #pizza. But Naples is so much more. Naples is so amazing, even the subway is beautiful! Considered one of ‘Europe's Most Impressive Underground Railway Stations' ... pic.twitter.com/StXH8OxmJm
— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) January 20, 2020

Verona, Italy: A City for Lovers of #Architecture ~ https://t.co/kbfrkDL96o ~ Verona has beauty and charm. #Shakespeare didn't refer to this city as "Fair Verona" for nothing. #travel #vacation #Italy #Europe #places2go pic.twitter.com/VtZVmLWfrw
— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) January 20, 2020

Lecce - Italy's Best Kept Secret~ https://t.co/tCqGvgv3Io ~ Lecce, pronounced "lay-chay", is ... Commonly referred to as “The Florence of the South”, Lecce is situated right at the bottom of the” heel”, on the Salento Peninsula, ... #travel #vacation #Europe #Italy pic.twitter.com/BC9YLugrCx
— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) January 20, 2020

#Venice A Brief #History of a Unique City ... https://t.co/ZFrCHwwbj9 ~ Many #gondoliers wear traditional uniforms - blue & white or red & white striped T-shirts with straw boater hats to match. They have been in business for hundreds of years. #travel pic.twitter.com/8Ht7VjaQyc
— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) January 20, 2020

The Seven Kings of Rome | @HubPagesDotCom ~ https://t.co/Za9fmBvNKW ~ The Story of Rome" There was once a group of villages on seven hills which grew into an empire. But how did it happen? #ancientRome #ancienthistory #history pic.twitter.com/grvRkvfiij
— My Fox Nooze (aka Joie de Vivre Magazine) (@FoxMarks_ATX) January 20, 2020

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Easy Italian Phrase Book: 770 Basic Phrases for Everyday Use (Dover Language Guides Italian)

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.

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.

Botswana
Cameroon
Ethiopia
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

* * *

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.

Friday, October 28, 2022

What Did We Do to Make Sharks So Angry?

Growing up in Miami, Florida, going to the beach was common. I can remember spending an entire day at the beach many times. It was nothing but fun! Being attacked by a shark never crossed my mind. But times have changed. Some people who go to the beach these days don't have the same memories that I have from my childhood and teenage years.

This was a really sad news report and it seems like I hear similar reports every 2 to 3 days some place in the world where there are beautiful beaches. Talk about a vacation with a horrific memory! This family had just arrived in The Bahamas for a vacation and the woman was attacked and killed by a shark. They had only been in the country for a few hours.

Bull shark kills snorkeler near Green Cay, Bahamas | Miami Herald

Here's a quote from the article: "Bull sharks, which are known to be aggressive, can reach up to 11.5 feet and 600 pounds, National Geographic Kids reported. They live up to 16 years in the wild. They eat fish, turtles, dolphins and other sharks. Most attacks on humans occur when sharks mistake them for prey."

Mistake a human for prey?

The shark can't tell the difference between a human and a turtle or fish? (O.o)

I'm thinking we need to design diving suits in a way that the sharks don't mistake us for food!!

I'm not joking. I'm being dead serious about this!

I watched a movie where Angelina Jolie was swimming under water. When she encountered a shark, she punch it in the face. Yeah right! That's how we fend off a shark attack. I don't think so!