Though Tasmania is a small island, it is packed with things to do, see, and experience. It is a must-see for any traveler or backpacker making their way through Australia. Named after an European explorer, “Tassie”, as it’s fondly known to locals, is the most mountainous state in Australia, and 40% of the island is National Forest. There are plenty of opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and hiking around the island. Tasmania is unique for its … [Read more...]
“Two Tickets to Paradise”, Palau
“I’ve got two tickets to paradise. Pack your bags and leave tonight” – Eddie Money In the evening we arrived to the Airai Hotel located conveniently near Palau’s international airport. The Airai hotel staff was welcoming and our hotel room that overlooked the coastline from a distance and the hotel waterpark below us was a spacious and comfortable midrange option. At the restaurant we sampled tasty white snapper pesto served over a bed of … [Read more...]
Disneyland for Romance
Having recently married, (an unlikely side effect of Obamacare) I seem to find my brain stuck in amorous overdrive - the unlikely beneficiary being my husband, with an impromptu trip for two to the Magic Kingdom. It’s true that many react incredulously to the idea of adults wanting to frolic in a place so firmly aimed at the juvenile but, as a child from Southern California, I have always loved Disneyland and my affection hasn’t waned one bit. … [Read more...]
Uluru at Sunrise
You crankily awake at some ungodly hour like 4am to get ready to head out to see the sunrise on the face of Uluru. You are tired from drinking and staying up late to watch the brilliant stars the night before. You really don't want to roll out of bed. But when you are standing in front of this orange monolith sleep is the furthest thing from your mind. The sun slowly rises and caps Uluru in a gentle light bathing it softly then becoming … [Read more...]
The New Alchemists of Prague
Prague Spring Break: Bohemian Rhapsody or Bozo Nightmare? The Unbearable Lightness of Being a Time Traveler in Prague In a possessed city Kafka called “a mother with claws,” John M. Edwards discovers the unbearable lightness of being a tourist in overcrowded Prague. Here a cost comparison of Communist and Capitalist Prague reveals a long history of alchemy and occupation, sorcery and intrigue, apparatchik chic and uneasy redemption. Welcome … [Read more...]
Notes from the Great Australian Outback, Northern Territory
Garth Brooks, "Friends in Low Places" was playing at some point in the last few days in one of our tour vehicles. The trend in music among the outfitters seems to be older American Country. I'm perfectly fine with that. I didn't hear about the incredible amount of flies in the Outback this particular year prior to my trip - probably something to do with all the rain they've had here. There is a cream you can dab on your face which keeps them … [Read more...]
The Unexpected Charms of Dusseldorf
Dusseldorf was the last stop on my recent trip to Germany. After the non-stop excitement of Berlin and the Grande Dame beauty of Dresden, my expectations were low. Dusseldorf was a city I associated with trade fairs and big business, neither of which hold my interest. Instead, what I got was a city bursting at the seams with a vigorous art scene, robust cultural life and plenty of culinary mojo. It’s a convenient city to visit, thanks to … [Read more...]
The Best of Hidden Orlando
When most people think of Orlando, Florida, they probably see images from long-dead advertising campaigns for the likes of Disney World, Universal Studios and more than a few images of the beach, wild parties and rampant excess. But there is a much quieter, much quirkier side to the Sunshine State’s biggest tourist destination. When you check into your hotel in Orlando, you can be sure you’ll be looked after and enjoy a fine accommodation … [Read more...]
Finding Peace and Relaxation at The Oaks at Ojai
The sky was clear blue. It was another beautiful and warm day, like how most days are here in Southern California. The road ahead finally opened up. After about an hour of driving through congested Los Angeles traffic, it was a relief to enter the stretch of the 101 Ventura freeway where it looked like a deserted highway. Taking a road trip on a Monday when most people start their work week certainly has its advantages. I arrived at my … [Read more...]
Camels to Sounds of Silence, Uluru Australia
Riding Camels in Australia? I thought present day camels were native to parts of the Middle East and parts of the Horn of Africa? In fact they are, but were brought to this part of the country in 1840 from the Canary Islands. Nine camels were originally brought over - all but one died en route and that one was eventually killed - but then more arrived. More than fifteen hundred camels were released into the wild many generations ago - and … [Read more...]
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