Travel Tourism Information
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2005 West End Theatre Review

It is perhaps in the nature of the British psyche that they don’t realise how good they have got it on their own doorstep. The annual Edinburgh Festivals are regarded world wide as some of the best Europe has to offer in terms of film, literature and music. However, only a third of the visitors are locals. In past times there has been is a similar pattern with London’s West End. For years v. . .

Siberia Travelogue - Part 6 – When Stairs Attack

In this continuing series, we cover my move from San Diego to Chita, Siberia to be a professor at Chita State Technical University. We pick up the story going to the train station in Khabarovsk to catch the Trans-Siberian Railroad. Day 4! If you’ve been reading this series on NomadJournalTrips.com, you know my original travel estimate was 2 ½ days from San Diego to Chita, Russia. Well, day 4 ha. . .

In Focus: Nile Cruise

Egypt is where history first emerged. It is here that we have the first pictographic record of events and persons. Hieroglyphics, the system of writing used by ancient Egyptians can be traced back to about 3200 BC. At about 3180 BC, the nations of Upper and Lower Egypt were brought under the rule of a single king titled Pharaoh. The first Pharaoh is thought to have been Menes, who set his capit. . .

Trip To Iqaluit In Nunavut, a Canadian Arctic City

In 2004, I completed two Inuit art buying trips to Iqaluit (formerly Frobisher Bay), the capital of Nunavut, Canada's newest territory. For both trips, I flew out of Ottawa on Canadian North airlines. The other airline that services Nunavut is First Air. Only the last half of the jets was allocated for passengers as the entire first half was for cargo. Being so remote, Canadian Arctic Inuit . . .

Discover The Rose Bowl Flea Market In Pasadena California

The Rose Bowl Flea Market And Swap Meet, at 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena Ca. 91103, is probably the largest and most famous swap meet held in California. On the second Sunday of each month, rain or shine, over 1,800 vendors from all over the country set up their booths and spaces in order to display and sell merchandise, including but not limited to accessories, antiques, clothing, collectibl. . .

Alaska - Easy Travel Guide

Explore the true North, the land of spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and friendly hospitality. WHAT TO SEE, TO DO AND WHERE: Mount McKinley is the highest mountain in North America (6,194 m or 20,306 feet), 150 miles from Fairbanks. Mountain climbing season is very short because of cold weather, strong winds and avalanche hazards. Nearly 1,000 people each season attempt the mountain, . . .

On Safari in Northern Tanzania – Back to The Sixth Day of the Creation

Tanzania’s natural endowment as a wildlife safari destination is unrivalled. Wild animals roam in vast areas as God intended on that sixth day of the creation. These areas are designated as national parks and game reserves and have a high reputation for being uncrowded and unspoilt. The magnificent collection of game sanctuaries to the north of the country, near the border with Kenya, is referr. . .

Zanzibar - A Magnet for Adventurers, Men-of God, Explorers and Conquerors

Those who have not been to Zanzibar will be surprised that despite its big name, it is only a small part of Tanzania. Zanzibar encompasses the main island of Ugunja, its twin Pemba and several small islets. A shallow channel 37km across at the nearest point separates it from the African mainland. As the crow flies, it is 73 km from Dar es Salaam and 219 km from Mombasa in Kenya. Zanzibar is ref. . .

Kenya- Still at the Heart of the African Safari Experience

The popular image of safari, especially in the west, is inseparable from Kenya. Earlier in the last century, gifted writers such as Ernest Hemingway and Karen Blixen brought to life the vivid images and uplifting life experience that constitutes a Kenyan safari. It is at this time that leading celebrities of the day such as Teddy Roosevelt and Prince Edward traveled to Kenya on safari. And so t. . .

Uganda - The Pearl Of Africa Glows Again

Uganda is a beautiful country with an impressive people. This is one of my favourite countries in all of Africa. The people of Uganda have survived the troubles of 1967-86 period and emerged standing upright and wearing a smile. In that short period, the country suffered under the caprice of two despicable despots. One was the indisputably insane Idi Amin and the other, the arguably insane Milt. . .

Import/Export – Building A Profitable Home Based Income For Life

Woolen jackets, paper rolls, light up teddy bears, clocks and DVDs – there is tremendous potential to make a very good profit from all of these products and countless others just by knowing the basics of one of the worlds oldest trades. Importing & exporting may not be the first thing that leaps into your mind when you think of home based businesses. However, there are few genuine opportunities. . .

Trip To Cozumel In Mexico

The island of Cozumel is only 12 miles (19 km) off the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula's east coast and 44 miles (71 km) south of Cancun. For years, Cozumel was a quite sleepy island that didn't get many visitors until Jacques Cousteau did a documentary on it after discovering the world class scuba diving at the Palancar Reefs nearby. Since 1961, Cozumel has been known as one of the best scuba divin. . .

Amazing Egypt – More than Just the Wonders of Antiquity

Egypt is one of the most fascinating destinations on the world tourist map. This extra ordinary country is today the favourite vacation spot for many, just like it was in the days of the early Greeks and Romans. The thoroughly cultured Greeks, in particular, were fascinated by this civilization that predated theirs by at least 2000 years. The biggest draw continues to be the amazing abundance o. . .

The Big Cats of East Africa

The most charismatic of all the animals that roam the savannas of East Africa are the big cats. Safari enthusiasts exercise great patience and go to great lengths to ensure a sighting. To behold the beauty and splendour of the big cats in the wild is a prospect that warms the heart of every nature lover. Among a number of the ancient civilizations - the Romans, Sumerians, and Egyptians- the big. . .

Ethiopia Tour

Ethiopia is an enchanting country whose delights are unknown to most travelers. And yet this is a truly unique destination with such attractions as can be found nowhere else in the world. The biggest draw is the rich Orthodox Christian heritage. Ethiopia was one of the very first nations to embrace Christianity, way back in the 4th century AD. The wonderful churches, monasteries, icons and reli. . .

Toronto, the New York City of Canada

Toronto, my city of birth, is the largest city in Canada with a population of about 3 million (5 million in the greater area) and it keeps growing every year as it seems to be the first city of choice for immigrants from around the world. With over 100 languages spoken here, Toronto is the most multicultural city in the world according to the United Nations. This is actually a good thing sinc. . .

Golden Ring of Russia - Travel Guide

WHAT IS IT: The so called "Golden Ring of Russia" is a symbolical ring connecting historical towns and cities to the North-West of Moscow. They represent 1,000 years of rich Russian history written in stone and wood, from a 850-year old church in Rostov to a 19th-century log house in the Suzdal's open air museum. Each of the "golden" towns once played an important role in the history of Russia . . .

Mauritius Vacation Guide

Mauritius has successfully managed to position itself as an exotic beach destination. With beach destinations so plentiful, this has been sustained not by mere hype, but by the substance there is to this claim. Visitors are drawn to Mauritius by the reputation of its 140 km of white sand beaches, and the superb opportunities for water sports. Swimming, beach combing, sailing, surfing, kayaking,. . .

Import, Export - Building An Income For Life

The import/export industry is one of the oldest in the world - and while it has become more sophisticated and formalised over time, the essence remains the same. Look around you and understand this - world barriers to trade are falling down all around us, and this has created a spectacular opportunity for people just like you and me to make small fortunes through import/export. There are liter. . .

Estate Planning And The Revocable Living Trust

What is a revocable living trust? According to Plan-My-Estate.com - With a Revocable Living Trust, you transfer the title of any of your assets (such as a house) from yourself as an individual, to yourself as Trustee of the Trust. Then you, as the Trustee of the Trust, manage the assets of the Trust for the benefit of the beneficiary, which is you. In this manner, you keep complete control ov. . .

Budapest, Hungary – The Castle District

Towering a couple hundred feet above the Danube River, the Castle District in Budapest is a special place. Surrounded by gothic churches with stain glass, a visit to the Castle District is like stepping back into the renaissance. Castle District Situated in the Buda section of Budapest, the Castle District sits on the eastern side of the Danube. Positioned a couple hundred feet above the Danube. . .

Starting a New Life Abroad

For some people starting a new life abroad is their ultimate dream come true, for others it’s a daunting but necessary lifestyle change brought about by a career move or a relationship requirement for example. Whichever category you happen to fall into one thing is for certain, starting a new life overseas is an incredibly exciting opportunity but one that requires courage and commitment – this. . .

Siberia, Russia – The Slow Train - Part 8

After deciding to move to Siberia for a year to teach at the Chita State Technical University, I embarked on a travel odyssey unlike any other. In this entry, we pick up the trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway. The Horror As my new Russian friend walked down the hall, I reflected on the information he had provided me with a grimace. The train ride from Khabarovsk to my destination, Chita, was g. . .

Discover JJ Steak House Restaurant In Pasadena California

Have you been looking for that perfect romantic restaurant to take a date or spouse to? Do you like old fashion elegant steak houses with lots of dark rich wood, plenty of marble and romantic lighting? Do you like the idea of a large fireplace? Do you like soft romantic harp music played by a very talented harpist? Do you like excellent leisurely attentive service where you never feel rushed? D. . .

The History of Steeplechase Horse Racing

The History of Steeplechase Horse Racing The sport of Steeplechase racing dates back to 1752 in Ireland when two, half-crocked, friends settled the argument over who owned the best horse by racing to the nearest Church steeple after returning from Fox hunting. The winner actually rode right through the church where the vicar was holding a solemn funeral. Soon steeplechase racing spread to Eng. . .

Siberia, Russia – Chita At Last - Part 9

After deciding to move to Siberia for a year to teach at the Chita State Technical University, I embarked on a travel odyssey unlike any other. In this entry, we pick up the last stage of the seven-day trip to get there. Siberia As Seen From A Train In preparing for my trip, I had actually done some preparation. As a common man, I know most of you female readers will find this hard to believe,. . .

A short biography on some of Europe's most loved and hated Monarchs - Pt 6 Philip II

During the last thousand years, European Monarchs have ruled Europe and the world with an iron fist and by fear, compassion and hatred. As their wealth grew from the riches of newly conquered continents and lands, they began building some of the worlds greatest castles as a sign of their status and wealth, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and splendor that has lasted well into the 21st century. . .

Siberia, Russia – The Trans-Siberian Railway - Part 7

After deciding to move to Siberia for a year to teach at the Chita State Technical University, I embarked on a travel odyssey unlike any other. In this entry, we pick up the trip leaving the train station in Khabarovsk. A Train To Nowhere? In deciding to travel to Chita, Siberia, I had originally estimated a travel time of three days. Okay, maybe three at the outside figuring time changes and . . .

The quintessential African Experience in a Sea of Golden Grass

There is so much more to the Serengeti than the Great Migration. These endless plains contain valleys, hills and woodland as well as the open plains that seem to stretch out forever. Every time of year offering something different, something special. However, the Great Migration seems to be the only thing on the itinerary. The Serengeti is more than this single spectacular event and I urge . . .

Riviera Maya, Mexico – Paradise Defined

The Riviera Maya on the Caribbean coast was a secret getaway to paradise for many years. No longer. Now it is considered one of the finest beach areas in the world. Riviera Maya Located on the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, the Riviera Maya is jaw dropping beautiful. Although the area was only known to a select few for years, the last 10 years has seen a boom in tourism and r. . .

Asset Protection And Fraudulent Transfer

According to information provided by http://www.plan-my-estate.com an estate planning and asset protection resource web site, a Fraudulent Transfer aka Fraudulent Conveyance is a transfer which a debtor makes for the purpose of defeating a creditor's collection efforts against the debtor. This typically happens when, say, a debtor attempts to "sell" everything to his wife, cousin or business pa. . .

A short biography on some of Europe's most loved and hated Monarchs - Pt 4 Queen Mary I

These members of royalty have included tyrants, the mentally insane, drunks and the psychotic, who have murdered for pleasure and raped for enjoyment. They have imposed terrible taxes on already poor citizens. They married for financial power and traded in lives. Kinfolk were murdered so a favorable son could rise through the ranks. As their power increased so did the atrocities, bringing with. . .

Discover Mijares Mexican Restaurant In Pasadena California

Mijares Mexican Restaurant in Pasadena, California is extremely well known for two things, their margaritas and their all you can eat Sunday champaign buffet brunch, both of which are excellent. This restaurant has been around for what seems like forever and has developed a crowd of very loyal patrons. Although it is justly well known for it's Sunday buffet, this is a good place to dine in at . . .

Living In Siberia – Lenin's Revenge

In 1999, I moved to Chita, a city in Siberia, Russia to teach for a year. After seven days of planes, trains and, well, more trains, I was ready to experience Chita in all its glory. Day 1 – Lenin’s Revenge Riding on a train for three plus days does weird things to your equilibrium. You tend to develop a natural compensation for the swaying. Unfortunately, your body doesn’t just snap back when . . .

The History of Lancaster Castle Pt1

Welcome to Lancaster Castle or as it is commonly known John O’ Gaunt’s Castle. In part 1, we will take a trip back in time discovering the origins of the castle from the early Roman period to the present day. Lancaster Castle stemmed from an original fort built by the Romans overlooking the town of Lancaster and the River Lune to help combat the invading forces of the Picts and Scots. . . .

The History of Lancaster Castle Pt2

Welcome to part 2 of the history of Lancaster Castle. In this final instalment we cover the Pendle Witch Trials, Take a brief glimpse into life at debtor’s prison, and discover what would happen to you as a child if you got caught committing an offence One of the most famous events at Lancaster castle was the Pendle Witch trials of 1612. During the reign of King James I, he passed laws whic. . .

A short biography on some of Europe's most loved and hated Monarchs - Pt 5 Charles II

During the last thousand years, European Monarchs have ruled Europe and the world with an iron fist and by fear, compassion and hatred. As their wealth grew from the riches of newly conquered continents and lands, they began building some of the worlds greatest castles as a sign of their status and wealth, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and splendor that has lasted well into the 21st century. . .

Budapest, Hungary – The Paris of Eastern Europe

Located in Eastern Europe, Hungary is diverse and beautiful country. The undisputed treasure of the country is Budapest. Budapest – A Tale of Three Cities Over 2,000 years old, Budapest is a large city containing traces of the various forces that have ruled it over time. Romans, Turks, Goths and many others have conquered the city. Somehow, the various influences work in such a way as to make t. . .

Xcaret, Mexico – Back To Nature or Maybe Not

Xcaret is located roughly 45 minutes south of Cancun, Mexico. The park is advertised as an ecological and archaeological Disneyland. While there is a definite back to nature feel to the place, it is expensive and crowded with more than a slight overtone of commercialism. Xcaret Pronounced “esh…car..it”, Xcaret is an extremely popular tourist resort, perhaps the biggest one in Mexico. At first. . .

Ngorongoro Crater

Maybe it was Mark Twain who said there are lies, dammed lies and statistics. This seems to be the case concerning statistics for Ngorongoro crater. As I checked my figures for accuracy for this article I could find no two sources that agree. So I will endeavor to keep statistics to a minimum. This aside Ngorongoro Crater is a true marvel and I believe unique in Africa; it is located between . . .

Plug In And Profit Resale Rights Strategies That You Can Use Today To Boost Your Income

If you’ve ever gone through the process of creating your own info-product or software then you know that while there is profit involved it can be a vigorous and time-consuming process. I always say it’s good to have your own products, but they should be used in conjunction with resale rights products – not instead of them. The nice thing about getting hold of a good resale rights product is th. . .

The Art Of Creating Perceived Value– What Every Product Owner Must Know To Triple Their...

I’d like to ask you a question - how many “how-to” type info-products have you purchased in recent times? Go ahead and think of your last purchase. What was it that made the blood rush to your head and click on the buy button? I’ll tell you exactly what it was – a very important concept called “perceived value”. Simply put, the benefits that the product offered was more valuable to you than the. . .

Why Creating Your Own High-Profit Info-Products Is The Key To Unlocking Wealth On The I...

Prestige, wealth and future prosperity. These are just three of the benefits that go hand in hand with owning the rights to your very own info-product. The good news is that there are lots of individuals out there who have created nothing short of a fortune just by writing a good, functional eBook – and then using ePublishing channels that are widely available to everyone (with a PC and interne. . .

Make Or Break Home Business Tips (And Home Based Residual Incomes That Work)

As our divine world drives furiously into this new “Information Age” a new type of millionaire is fast emerging from the incredible changes that have been driven by the internet – the “Work From Home Millionaire”. This article probes into the questions that you have about the benefits of starting a home business, avoiding the scams that seem to attract any prosperous industry and (the bit that . . .

The Secret To Keeping Kids Interested on Family Vacations

Vacations and trips are great family events, but how do you keep kids interested and busy during the down times? Have them keep journals of the trips and their impressions. Writing Journals Take a minute to give some consideration to your most recent family vacation. Where there periods of time when you wished you kids would pay more attention to what was going on? Its natural for kids attenti. . .

A Stopover in Labadee, Haiti

The first port for our Royal Caribbean cruise of the western Caribbean was Labadee, Hispaniola which is actually a part of Haiti. This specific port is leased out to Royal Caribbean so only their cruiseships come here. Labadee is actually a peninsula with a few beaches. Getting to land from the cruiseship is by tender. There is a small section for kids with floating fake icebergs to climb an. . .

Fly Fishing Journals – Keep Track of Your Trips

Fly fishing is addictive. Once you start, you'll never stop. Whether you are going to the local water hole or to Alaska, you should use a fly fishing journal to keep track of your sessions. Fly Fishing Journals Fly fishing is more than just fishing, it’s a peaceful, surreal activity. For many, there is almost a meditative quality to casting. For avid fly fisherman, fly fishing trips to locatio. . .

A Guide to Taking Your Dream Disney Cruise!

Experiencing the magic of Disney at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort Paris is something that is rarely forgotten as a child or as an adult. With a Disney cruise, you can now recapture that magic on board one of Disney's elite cruise ships. There are several exotic Caribbean cruise routes to choose from, and with a spread of onboard entertainment for all the family . . .

Ecuador Travel – Quito, Volcanoes, Galapagos Island

Located in the Andeas, Ecuador is a land of intrigue for travelers. Travel to Ecuador and you can trek the Amazon, climb volcanoes, or loaf on beautiful beaches. Perhaps the biggest reason to travel to Ecuador is a visit to the famous Galapagos Islands. Regardless of your preference, the following attractions are all worth a look. Quito A hot bed of colonial architecture, Quito is the capital o. . .

How to Pick Warm Comfortable Sleeping Bags For Camping.

Should sleeping bags be made of down or synthetic? What sleeping bag is best for camping, hiking or backpacking? A guide to make your decision easier. First off it should at least be rated for the lowest possible temperature you'll encounter. You may want to even go a little lower just to be on the safe side. Obviously the main purpose is to hold your body heat in to insulate you from the coole. . .

The Costa del Sol, Europe's Premier Holiday Destination

Since the 1960's and the advent of package holidays the Costa del Sol has always been one of the premier holiday destinations in Europe, and with good reason. The weather is perfect, with little or no rain between the beginning of June and the end of September. The beaches are long, clean and sandy and the vast majority have the coverted blue flag award also, the Mediterranean, being practical. . .

Beautiful Barcelona - Easy Travel Guide

Beautiful city of Barcelona, capital of Catalonia (a Spain's province), is situated on on the shore of the Mediterranean sea and bordered at either end by 2 river deltas. Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain after its capital city Madrid. Barcelona has a population of 1.5 million, over 4 million including suburbs. The varied, eventful history of the city dates back 4,000 years to the . . .

Caribbean Stopover at St. Thomas of the U.S. Virgin Islands

One of the most popular ports of call for Caribbean cruise ships is St. Thomas, one of the U.S. Virgin Islands. On the three Caribbean cruises that I took so far, two of them included a stopover in St. Thomas. On both occasions, there was a consensus among other passengers we met that St. Thomas was one of the nicer islands visited. Although the driving in St. Thomas is on the left hand side,. . .

Western Caribbean Cruise

We were on the Radiance of the Seas for the western Caribbean cruise on November 28/04. This was our second cruise with Royal Caribbean with our first last year on the larger Adventure of the Seas. After one cruise with RCI, I expected roughly the same standards with the Radiance and in general, I wasn't disappointed. Staterooms: Our stateroom was an inside aft cabin and we were not disappo. . .

Beautiful Vancouver, City of the Sea & Mountains

As one flies over Vancouver during the decent into the Canadian city’s airport, the surrounding beautiful natural scenery is already noticed with mountains on one side and the sea on the other. Once inside the baggage claim area of the international airport, visitors are greeted with large Pacific Northwest Coast Indian art carvings. This adds to the overall flavor of nature and the environme. . .

Argentina Travel - Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata, Iguazú Falls, Tierra del Fuego, and Pat...

Argentina is on the way back from the economic crisis of the last few years. If you are looking for a travel destination, Argentina is amazing and cheap. Economic Woes While Argentina has unlimited beauty, it also has unlimited corruption. The massive corruption finally lead to an economic crisis at the turn of the century. With the currency devalued and jobs hard to find, Argentina was a d. . .

Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica

One of the ports of call for our Royal Caribbean cruiseship during the week of November 28/04 was Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Probably the most famous site in the region is Dunn's River Falls and we chose to tour it on our own rather than through one of the cruiseship tours. Once we disembarked from the cruiseship, there were cabs and shuttlebuses available at the pier. Cabs to Dunn's River Falls we. . .

How To Have Better Camping Trips.

Tired of packing too much or not bringing critical camping gear for your camping trips? Camping trips can be a great way to relax and get away from it all. But with a little planning you could make them even better. Since different areas offer different challenges start off by making a camping list and/or hiking gear list you might need. This will also help get you started... Are there any wild. . .

Tahiti in Fiction and Film

Over the years, Tahiti and Polynesia have provided novelists and moviemakers with colorful subject matter. Early travelers told of wanton women on tropical shores, and Fletcher Christian added drama to the plot by leading a mutiny against the tyrannical Captain Bligh. In 1934 American writers Charles Nordhoff and James Norman Hall brought out the Bounty Trilogy. This three-part novel deals with. . .

Travel Cambodia – Phnom Penh, Angkor Wat, Sihanoukville

Cambodia is a land on the mend. From 1977 through 1980, the Khmer Rouge ruled the country, fanatics bent on genocide. Millions were killed and the period was put to film in the movie, “The Killing Fields.” Fortunately, those days are over and the country is becoming a tourist destination. Cambodia is a land of incredible contrast. Thick forest, mountains and pristine rivers compliment amazing. . .

Dancing With Whales

We've all heard about whalewatching from boats or shore, and a few companies are now offering the possibility of actually swimming and snorkeling with whales in the wild. Is this a good thing? Some whalewatching operators in the Kingdom of Tonga, South Pacific islands, advertise the possibility of swimming and snorkeling with humpback whales during the cetacean's annual migration from July to . . .

Travel Journals – Preserve Your Travel Experiences

Traveling is a great way to escape the rat race and experience new cultures and places. Alas, your experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a travel journal for your trips. Travel Journals Take a minute to give some consideration to your most recent trip. What sticks out in your mind? Now think about the first trip you ever took. Undoubtedly, you remember few thi. . .

Mountain Hiking Tips, Mountain Trekking Gear & Equipment Hints.

Mountain hiking demands great gear and more education than your typical trail hike. Why? Because as you ascend breathing becomes less efficient, passage grows rugged, and rescue becomes more challenging. So consider your mountain equipment to be your life support system. Where in day hiking you may be able to get away with wearing light-weight boots or shoes, in remote mountain hiking it's a go. . .

Grand Cayman Island After The Hurricane Season

One of the ports visited on our recent Royal Caribbean cruise was Grand Cayman. This was an eagerly awaited port since I've been there before but wanted to take my girlfriend scuba diving there. We were worried that we might miss this port since the Caymans were hit pretty hard by the hurricanes and indeed, they had closed the islands off to tourist travel for part of the summer/fall. Fortun. . .

Should you hire an accident attorney

The following article was written for Resources For Attorneys.com by David Hallstrom, a private investigator, he is not now nor has he ever been an attorney. You have been in a accident, automobile, slip and fall, workplace, etc.. Should you see or speak with an attorney? As far as I am concerned, the answer is always yes. When should you consult with an accident attorney? You should seek the a. . .

The Wonderful Wildlife of Southern Spain.

69, 70,71, 72. I am trying to count the Griffon Vulture's as they glide effortlessly on their 2m. wingspan over the top of the mountains opposite my home. Earlier I was checking the damage to our vegetable patch as the wild boar were here again last night and they seem to have taken a shine to my husband's carrots! I glance up as I hear the screech of a Booted Eagle letting his mate know she ha. . .

Siberia Travelogue - Part 4 – Airport Follies and a Stern Lecture

In this continuing series, we cover my decision to move from San Diego to Chita, Siberia to be a professor at Chita State Technical University. We pick up the story aboard the flight from Anchorage to Khabarovsk, Russia. Day 3 [Still] As I lounged in my huge Aeroflot seat, the stewardess announced that we would be arriving in Khabarovsk in the next 30 minutes. Khabarovsk is located in the deep . . .

Siberia Travelogue - Part 1 - Here I Come!

“You must really hate this job.” That’s what my boss said when I told him I was moving from San Diego to Siberia for a year. In reality, I was bored and looking for something that would be completely and utterly new. Whether it was sunstroke or a developing tolerance to margaritas, San Diego just wasn’t cutting it anymore. Heck, I hadn’t even gone to the beach in nine months and it was only a f. . .

Siberia Travelogue - Part 3 – Communist Planes and Defining “Fluent”

In the first two parts of this series, we covered my decision to move from San Diego to Chita, Siberia to be a professor at Chita State Technical University. We pick up the story aboard the flight from Anchorage to Khabarovsk, Russia. Day 3 Technically, it’s day two and half. I think. Time began to blur as we flew over the international date line. Wait, do we add a day or lose a day? I was so c. . .

Khmer Rouge Prison 21 – The Chilling High School In Phnom Pehn, Cambodia

Most travel stories are of the happy-go-lucky variety. Every once in a while, however, one visits a place that evidences the vicious, dark side of mankind. Khmer Rouge Prison 21, known as Tuol Seng, is one such place. It is a stark reminder of the cruelties humanity can visit upon itself. Tuol Sleng In 1962, the high school of Ponhea Yat was opened in the center of Phnom Pehn. The school consis. . .

Cambodian Taxi Chaos – a Leaf, a Radiator and a MacGyver Moment

The roads in Cambodia are vicious, angry slabs of asphalt filled with potholes that would qualify as valleys in some countries. Fortunately, I had it made traveling from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh. Or so I thought. Cambodian Taxis Having spent two weeks in the relaxing beach town of Sihanoukville, I was getting bored and so were the three chaps traveling with me. It was time to head to the sup. . .

Rail Breaks – Why many people are turning their backs on flying.

According to statistics supplied by Great Rail Journeys (GRJ) – one of the UK’s premier holiday companies that specialise in rail - an amazing 40,000 Britons are taking package rail holidays every year. These figures would have been hard to believe some five to ten years ago when the phrase “British Rail” was synonymous with poor service and unreliable transport. However, as we will learn tak. . .

Bandelier National Monument – New Mexico

Located in north central New Mexico, Bandelier National Monument’s 32,737 acres encompasses a spectacular array of archeological, historic, and natural features. Today, 10,000 years after its first visitors appeared, Bandelier attracts more than 300,000 people each year. "It is the grandest thing I ever saw," proclaimed Adolph F. Bandelier as he stood at the rim of Frijoles (free-HOH-lace) Cany. . .

Colorado Fly Fishing – Bait Huckin' vs. Fly Fishin'

It was one of those fishing trips. You know, everyone catches fish but you, you loose six or eight of your most expensive streamers, it rains buckets, and you sink the boat. That’s right; I got skunked at Steamboat Lake over Memorial weekend. I was determined to show those meat huckers (worms and power bait) that a well chosen and strategically placed fly was as effective as anything a conventi. . .

Siberia Travelogue - Part 2 - Where Are We and What Day Is It?

Standing in the airport in San Diego, I began to wonder exactly how long it was going to take to get to the city of Chita in Siberia. The combination of a vodka hangover, three flights, one train ride and a jump over the international date line didn’t help. At first glance, it looked like a total of two days, which wasn’t bad for going to the other side of the earth. I should have paid more att. . .

Pumpkin, The Halloween Cat

PUMPKIN, THE HALLOWEEN CAT Copyright 2005, Michael LaRocca The neighbor's car pulled into my driveway. She got out holding a stranger in her arms. "I found this cat in my yard. Is he yours?" "No." "Oh. I thought he was." "Well, he's not." "Well, can you hold him until I drive away so he doesn't follow me home?" Oh yes, we all know how this story ends. He was a beautiful little fuzzy ball of ora. . .

San Diego Beach Hikes – Cardiff to Carlsbad

San Diego offers a bevy of interesting hikes. With the average home price being around $500,000, they better be interesting! To unwind, I typically stop on my way home from work to hike from Cardiff to Carlsbad on the beach. For picturesque sunsets and “tasty waves”, the beach between Cardiff to Carlsbad can’t be beat. Cardiff - Starting I typically start this hike by parking just south of rest. . .

Cappadocia - Land of Wonders

Combined forces of mankind and nature have created three wonders of Cappadocia- its "fairy chimneys" (coneshaped pillars of tuff capped with basalt) in the unique valleys that look like another planet, ancient underground cities and 1500-year old rock cut Christian churches. All of it is concentrated in the area of approximately 100x100 km in the central part of Turkey. Humans first set foot in. . .

Alaska - Easy Cruise Guide

WHAT TO SEE: Legendary beautiful scenery of Alaska- magnificent coastal fjords, rugged glaciers, vast evergreen forests, sky-high mountains, 7 of which are the tallest peaks in North America (to see Mt. McKinley, North America's tallest peak, you'll need to take a tour to the shore into the Denali National Park), abundant land and marine wildlife- moose, kodiak and grizzly bears, caribou, dall . . .

Play Golf on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol, recently renamed the Costa del Golf, is an absolute Paradise for golfers of all standards. Offering some world-class golf courses in some beautiful locations combined with the highest number of sunshine days per annum in Europe it is hard to beat. Plentiful and cheap flights to Malaga, Gibraltar and now Jerez make it accessible all the year round and not content to rest o. . .