Valencia's Fiesta; Be Sure to Attend

Spain's long reputation of celebrations of bull running and tomato slinging is sure to take a back seat during Valencia's biggest festivity of all. Las Fellas is a celebration that runs for the first 19 days of March and if you haven't witnessed it make room in your travel plans to be apart of the city's biggest celebration.

This charming mediterranean city is in full of anticipation of this monumental ceremony. Artists work year round to build replications of "fallas" that decorate every street corner and square. These impressive (sometimes six stories high) fallas are replicas from the eighteenth century when carpenters would burn their their leftovers in honor of Saint Joseph. These piles turned into statues of paper and wood. If you're not too busy watching the artists you may find yourself marveling at the works of arts being created on the street corner.

The climax of this fiesta is arguably one of Spain's largest display of fireworks. Suzanne Guedeke, a contributing writer for GoNomad had the pleasure of witnessing the festivities of Valencia's most famous attraction first hand.

"There is a short moment of silence and then the pyrotechnic orchestrates a 15-minute ear deafening concert of 120 decibel explosions that shake the ground.
I feel like covering my ears, but people around me gesture that I should open my mouth; it takes the pressure off the eardrums. Here I am, my mouth wide open, the explosions determining my heartbeat. The smell of gunpowder penetrates the air; small pieces of ash land in my hair; babies start to cry; the explosions build up to an overwhelming finale. All I can do is cheer outrageously as the final explosions resonate between the buildings."

To continue the celebration a parade to the city's square in front of the Basilique to offer flowers to the patron saint of Valencia, Virgen de los Desamparados. The people dress in heavy traditional wardrobe and flowers in hand to create the shape of their beloved saint. I say beloved because Guedeke describes the Valencian people as being moved to tears when they reach their patron Saint.

This monumental exhibit is left on display for a few days while celebrates dance and party in the streets. The finishing touch of this celebration ends with la crema where all the fallas are burned only to be recreated for the following year's celebration.

Planeterra - The G.A.P Adventures Foundation: Helping the Children of Peru

All over the world, children are found poor, abused, neglected, and suffering; Cuzco, Peru is no exception to this unfortunate truth.

Melissa Vitti, an intern for GoNOMAD, offers a person important information: Peru is not a place to take interest in just once a year for tourism; there is a lot going on in the country. While Peru may have areas with breathtaking scenery and historical sites of Incan ruins, it also has impoverished children in desperate need of support.

“Many of the children shining shoes and selling cigarettes on the streets of Cuzco are working to support their families before their return home from school. But 35% of these young children cannot balance these heavy responsibilities and are forced to give up school in order to work. In addition, many children are homeless as a result of abuse, neglect and abandonment. With few options, these children are forced to make the streets their home, consuming alcohol and drugs and sniffing glue to satisfy hunger pains, and often prostitute themselves and/or beg to make ends meet.”

Before it was evicted in 2006, some children were able to receive help from Inti Runakunaq Wasin (IRW), a local non-profit organization. However, since this time the program’s success has been jeopardized. As a result, the kids who were able to replace drugs with nutritious meals and other programs which taught valuable skills such as carpentry, cooking, music, shoe repair and English, are now back on the streets.

It’s a mess of a situation but IRW is not giving up. Working together with the Planeterra Foundation, IRW has been able to raise $30,000 to purchase a permanent location; yet, they are still short $70,000.

If interested, people can do even more than just make financial contributions, they can volunteer in the country. G.A.P Adventures is the organization responsible for Planeterra, and the supporter of projects like IRW.

Through G.A.P Adventures, travelers and donors can apply to volunteer in sites like Cuzco, Honduras, Costa Rica, and South Africa. It’s a great way to get hands on experience working with troubled communities. Every year, G.A.P Adventures help place more than 40,000 travelers eager to make a difference. Travelers should rest assured that G.A.P Adventures is a respectable company and ensures 100% of the donation goes back to the people and supports community development. Plus, any volunteer is sure to leave with unforgettable memories and experiences.

Source: Melissa Vitti GoNOMAD.com

Easy Riders: Motorcycling India

“Every year, several hundred wheel-crazed travelers arrive in India with plans to explore the subcontinent on a motorcycle--riding over the frozen Himalayas or through the sweltering heat of the Rajasthan desert to the humid greenery of the south. Some sign up for an all-inclusive guided motorcycle safari, others just rent or purchase a machine and find their own directions. But all come here with the intent of riding; few find themselves on a saddle by a fluke”.

Ravi J. Deka is a traveler who has taken on one unique adventure. While most people make their road trips in cars, Ravi makes her journey on a motorcycle. And of all places in India, where there are tons of pockmarked roads, chaotic traffic, and herds of wandering cows!

On her way she encounters many people, all of whom have the same suspicious questions of disbelief: “But, why a motorcycle? Isn't it dangerous? Where do you stop at night? How does your family react, and are you married? Of the myriad questions, explaining why I prefer a motorcycle over a bus or a train is the easiest. “

Ravi’s bum might be sore from the bumps on the road, and arms and legs a little shaky from the inexperience of the long drive, but she recognizes one thing. For Ravi, there is no other way to appreciate the diverse country and get insights into Indian life, as when she rides her bike. Constantly she finds herself stopping to make connections with villagers praying or celebrating an event.. Plus, she is an adventurous traveler who wants to face unknown extremities; and what could be more thrilling than traveling on a motorcycle?

Ravi recommends making a motorcycle trip coincide with the cool and dry seasons due to monsoons and varying climates throughout the country. In her article, Easy Riders: Motorcycling India, she separates the country into three areas for exploring: the north, south, and east. She gives tips for riding in each of these three areas. In particular she advises June to September for Ladakh and the western Himalayas; September to March for Rajasthan/central India and Goa and the South, and September to May to ride in Assam, Meghalaya, and Northeast India.

Ultimately, motorcycling is quite an adventure but perhaps can be a little intimidating to the solo or a newcomer to the sport. If you are interested in completing a route but want to do so in a group, there are a few local tour operators and outfitters in India, that run expeditions of varying lengths throughout the country.

Source: Ravi J. Deka GoNOMAD.com

Manhattan’s Lower East Side: The Big Onion

“There is a Mexican-American art installation in the windows of 97 Orchard Street across from the historic Americana of the Blue Moon Hotel and there is only one place I can be; the Lower East Side of Manhattan (LES).” In her article, Lisa St. John, a high school teacher and poet, explains that what she loves most about LES is peeling away it’s many layers of culture and history. She refers to the quarter as one big onion with endless opportunities to learn about the foreigners that have come to LES.

Manhattan’s Lower East Side has a lot to offer. Over a century ago the neighborhood was the center point for new immigrants from Europe, Russia, Puerto Rico, China and Ireland, as well as native New Yorkers looking for an eclectic lifestyle and community to settle in. Yet, with areas today in LES such as East Village, Alphabet City, Chinatown, Browery, Little Italy, and NoLIta, the district has become a popular place of interest to many New Yorkers and out-of-towners any day of the week.

Just choosing to visit the American Jewish Historical Society on Sixteenth Street, will awaken ones imported goods interests and ethnic taste buds. Some of the stops on route to the museum include the “best dumpling stop in town, a Chinese/Hispanic Grocery store, and merchants hawking their leather wares in Arabic.”
If you have the time it might be worth it to explore the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. In addition to seeing the important articles inside the building, the Tenement Museum is famous for giving guided tours. The museum works with local artists to guarantee the tours are vibrant and show respect for the history and modernizations of the neighborhood. The tours usually take an hour and are given both public and privately; tickets are $15 for adults $11 for students.

There are two kinds of tours to choose from. “The Piecing it Together tour focuses on the garment industry and the families affected by it. “Getting By” teaches about the development of social welfare, and the “Confino Living History” tour lets us experience the lives of a Sephardic-Jewish family from Kastoria via actors and hands-on activities.”

Whatever tour you pick be prepared to be treated “as a newly arrived immigrant by the family, as they explain the best ways to “Americanize”. While there is much to see and do in LES, there is perhaps nothing more valuable than understanding the foundation of the locale.

Source: Lisa St. John GoNOMAD.com

Living in Chile? Beware of Robbery

There's a new threat that Americans should be aware of if they're considering re-locating in Chile. Crime is everywhere but in this country robbery is becoming the new favorite past-time.

According to Justice Studies Center of the Americas, the number of "high impact crimes" or "delitos de mayor connotación social� (i.e. "violent robbery, robbery with intimidation and robbery involving surprise; breaking and entering; assault; rape; murder; and theft.") have been on the increase in Chile; an 11.7 % total increase from one year to the next which equates roughly to 971 robberies per 100,000 inhabitants. According to the U.S. Embassy of Chile's website, [compared to other major cities] "crime rates are low to moderate throughout Chile and are moderate in Santiago...There have been very few violent crimes committed against Americans."

"It's true. Violent crimes against Americans and other expatriates are nearly unheard of in Santiago. Expats are more often victims of non-violent home robberies, crimes of opportunity. What then separates the robbed from those who still have all their original house contents? The answer is simple: The right information," says Heather Domnick.

Things to remember:

1.) Not answering the door bell. Answering it means someone's home and most robbers don't like that. It's easier to get your stuff when you're not there.

2.) Strangers in the house. Carpet cleaners, plumbers, movers, the handyman--these are all people who walk through your house, talk to your nana and have a view of your household from the inside out, many times are unsupervised.

3.) Your maid, even if part time, probably has a good idea of how your home is run and what the schedule is. A recipe for disaster if she's anything less than honest or unintentionally tells the wrong people.

4.) Construction Workers. If you have a home being built near by, it's possible watching your house has become a favorite past time for the local construction workers.

5.) Nobody's Home. Vacant homes are the easiest to rob. Plan in advance to avoid your house be subject during the holidays.

6.) Thieves see something they like and walk right in. Electric security gates and doors are not full proof, especially when someone doesn't close them completely on their way out.

These tips may seem like common sense but, it's easy for anyone to forget the little things until it's too late and you come home to an unfurnished home. If you do happen to find yourself a victim of a crime while in Chile, the local U.S. embassy suggests that the loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

GoNOMAD Writer Wins Best Travel Blog

Midrula Dwivedi, a GoNOMAD writer blogging from New Delhi has won the Best Travel India Blog for 2006. Midrula has been writing for a long time but really began to take her blogging seriously since she wrote a blog for BBC website. “ I got more than a thousand hits per days for two days. And then when my stories got published on the GoNOMAD website, it gave me more confidence to carry on,” she says in an interview with India Travel Blog.

Midrula loves traveling in her country because there is so much to see and explore in India. Her passion for her nation shines through in everything she writes. The topics she covers range from her travels in India, to Indian culture and cuisine, current events, and even dreams she has in her sleep.

I discovered her writing to be uniquely original and exciting. I especially liked the blog she wrote about hiking to a stream in Shringi Vatika. “We walked the last two kilometers from Jibhi to Shringi, rather than wait for a bus that was available an hour later. It started raining lightly on the way. Finally, when we saw the board of Shringi Vatika, it was such a relief. It took us 17 hours to reach the place. How we attacked the aloo parathas (stuffed Indian bread) that were served to us a while later.

The weather was damn cold (after all, it snowed there lightly) and after freezing for two days it was time to turn back (the account of these two days will follow soon). We wanted to start really early on Monday, as I had a class to take on Tuesday morning. There were no buses from Shringi to anywhere before 8.45. So we hired a taxi up to the tunnel near Aut to come back. We left at 6.00 am. I took my Avomine really early. I reminded Sesha to do the same but he threw tantrums. On the way, he vomited once! I wonder why he does not learns his lessons soon enough. Thankfully, after that he had no problems.”

I recommend for anyone to read Midrula’s blog. She constantly updates it and reading her entries leaves you wanting more of Midrula’s wisdom.

Sources: Midrula Dwivedi gonomad.com/traveltalesfromindia
http://travel.paintedstork.com/blog/

The Human Fish

Martin Strel, a 52 year old native and resident of Slovakia, is attempting to swim where most people wouldn’t dream of swimming: the Amazon, the world’s longest river.

The fact that the Amazon is infected with alligators, snakes, anacondas, and piranhas makes some people think that Strel has lost his mind. It is a wonder: how does he plan to accomplish this dangerous feat? If he successfully swims the entire 3,745 miles of the Amazon, Strel will be the first be the first person to cover these waters.

Fortunately, Strel is a professional marathon swimmer and no newcomer to stroking his way through long distances. Over the past seven years, Strel has swum 1,867 miles of the Danube, 2,359 miles of the Mississippi, and 2,487 miles of the Yangtze.

Strel dedicates his swim to the protection of the rain forest and finding the cure to Alzheimer's. “My slogan is swimming for peace, but also achieving the impossible. It's a big risk for me, but every day I get messages from around the world telling me, ‘Martin, you are the right man for this. We wish you the best luck.’ ”

Strel’s social objectives are admirable, yet, are the life threatening challenges that Strel will endure worth risking his life? The Amazon compares to no other river he has yet explored. Beyond the dangerous creatures lurking in the waters, Strel needs to evade torrential rains, whirlpools, tidal bores, waterborne diseases, and several candiru, needle-like fish that feeds on blood and tissue.

Strel is an extreme adventurer but he still wants to be as safe as he can. Along with him, he is taking “a support boat with doctors and scientists on hand to regularly check his health, administer emergency aid, and toss buckets of chum into the river to distract swarming schools of piranhas. This should allow Strel to focus on what he does best—swim an incredible distance down the world's great waterways."

Strel’s journey began on February 1 from Atalaya, Peru. Given he doesn’t get eaten alive by the Amazon, Strel estimates he will arrive to Belém, Brazil in approximately 70 days.

Source: Ryan Bradley www.nationalgeographic.com

Budget Travel in Asia

Asia is a massive continent and there is much to consider before traveling it. In addition to planning for the many tricky visa requirements of crossing borders, remember that prices greatly range throughout Asia. To organize a trip there, some advice is group the landmass into three parts: Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and Asia-Pacific.

Southeast Asia: Travels in this part of Asia include Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Burma/Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. It is the cheapest part of Asia to visit. Also, it's many new budget airlines make it the ideal place for a budget backpacker; to really save even more, invest in Lonely Planet Asia On A Shoestring.

Indian Subcontinent: Backpackers who go here are “usually on a quest for something: spiritual renewal, the meaning of life, the ultimate high, love-or just a place they can get by for $10 a day.” India and Nepal are two of the most popular countries for budget travelers. Although, it is possible to not spend much money in this part of Asia, be aware that some places like in Bombay, India tourism is booming and it’s common to see fancy hotels going for $350 a night.

Asia Pacific: Asia Pacific covers Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and China. With the exception of China, this region is by far the most expensive part of Asia. Keep in mind that Asia Pacific is strict on entry without a visa; make arrangements to get a visa at least a few weeks in advance and not risk getting denied entry.

Something else to keep in mind in planning your trip is the language barrier. While many of the main cities in Asia may have some English speakers, be prepared to struggle a little with communication. Make sure to bring a good phrase book!

Source: Tim Leffel www.transitionsabroad.com

Transitioning Abroad

If the idea of living abroad interests you, you are not alone. Numbers of expatriates are growing quickly all around the world. During my year abroad in Spain, I encountered hundreds of Americans who had relocated to Europe.

Even though living abroad is becoming a popular idea, it can be a scary thing to do. Not everyone is up for some of the challenges that may arise with moving to another country. If you are playing with the idea of moving abroad, Rhiannon Williamson of escapeartist.com gives three thought provoking guidelines to examine before making any decisions.

Area 1: Begin by considering your reasons for moving abroad in the first place. Costs of living in the country and your climate requirements are two key factors that may eliminate many choices. Also, consider language barriers. Do you speak the language of the country?

Area 2: Skills-Do you have a specific skill and do your skills and qualifications translate in every single overseas country? Also be aware of any permit permission restrictions, residence visas requirements, and taxation implications of moving abroad.

Area 3: Practicalities- How easy and affordable is it to find rental accommodation in your country? Will you rent furnished or unfurnished? If you’re moving a long way away how will you ship your personal belongings with you?

There are many important questions to contemplate and answer before making a decision like changing your nation. Yet, don’t allow yourself to feel overwhelmed; do your homework and have some patience. If a life abroad is something you really have your heart set on, then it is achievable. There are several people that have already pioneered their way into your ideal country, make sure to use them as resources.

Sources: Rhiannon Williamson Escapeartist.com
Picture: www.aiesec.org

Living In The New Cuba

According to a writer for escapeartist.com, the “New” Cuba is “ a hell of a fine place to live". For $20, Christopher Howard's ebook Living and Investing in the New Cuba shares all the secrets and tools for how a newcomer can adjust to life in Cuba.

Cuba has spent years developing its tourism industry. Today more than two million foreigners visit yearly and thousands of expatriates stay indefinitely; there is no law in Cuba that prevents foreigners from living there.

For hundreds of “New” Cubans, life in the country is extraordinary but adjusting to life there may be a little tricky at first. As with anything new and worthwhile, time, patience, and an open-mind go a long way.

Issues to consider are the two-tier pricing system (one price for foreigners, the other for Cubans) and the socialist economy. Anyone with the intention of relocating to Cuba should be aware of this but not fear it. There are 11 million people living in Cuba and the country is said to be one safest places in the world. As long as you are not suspected of espionage, the Cuban natives, police included, are extremely friendly and helpful.

Some of the best parts of life in Cuba include the warm and hospitable people; Cubans are famous for their sense of humor and know how to enjoy life. Also, Cuba is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs; the country is ripe for international investors who want to start new businesses.

This "Pearl of the Caribbean" has breathtaking terrain, towering mountains, spectacular landscapes, colonial and cosmopolitan towns, and beautiful beaches. Regardless of whether its for a week or forever, Cuba, is an great choice to put on your list of places to visit.

Source: EscapeArtist.com

Your Own Private Island

Are you in the market to buy a house? Stop right there. Rather than own a house, did you know you could buy an island? For the same price or less as an average American home, a whole island can be bought.

Some islands can cost several millions, yet, a reasonably priced island can be discovered too. Coral Cay Island in Panama can be purchased for just $65, 000. Interested island-buying hopefuls can learn everything about this exotic possibility through privateisland.com, a site with a plethora of information.

There are some things to keep in mind when considering investing in an island. Buying an island is very similar to buying a house; there are several steps to take and processes to look into. Here are a few factors to acknowledge.

Step 1: Set Your Price: Have a price realistic to your budget but know that the less you spend, the poorer quality of the island; it might be a fixer upper. Be prepared for additional costs.

Step 2: Location: An island is purchased for it’s surroundings. Too much privacy can mean that there are no villages or nearby communities to make quick trips for supplies. Also, these remote islands, while offering a lot of privacy, usually don’t have a nice view.

Step 3: Weather: It is a good idea to ask local people and fishermen about the weather pattern for the islands and the surrounding areas. Islands can be prone to flooding, storms, and strong currents.

Step 4: Accessibility: One of the most important things to consider is the amount of travel time to get to the island. Islands are only accessible by boat, so if there is no desire to put up with rough seas and commuting distance, an island closer to a village may be a better idea.

If one is not ready for the responsibility of an island, perhaps an alternative can be renting the space. Renting an island removes all the risks of ownership and is usually staffed with a full service of chefs, private planes, and several boats. For a week or so, live like royalty.

Source: Cheyenne Morrison www.pirateking.com

Valentines Day Around The World

Several countries enjoy Valentines Day on February 14th, yet these celebrations can differ from how Americans traditionally revel in this holiday.

Take Japan for instance. On Valentines Day it is common for the female to present gifts to her boyfriend or any man close to her, not the other way around like in the US. Chocolate is a common gift, but it is either store bought or made from scratch. The latter called Hon-Mei is for a true love, while Giri-choco is for friends, bosses, and colleagues. Finally, one month later on White Day, men pamper the women who gave them gifts before.

Chinese Valentine's Day is the most unlike the Valentine's day observed in America. Chinese Valentine's Day is the 7th day of the 7th lunar month in the Chinese Calendar. The day can be called Festival of the Double Sevens, The Night of Sevens, Seven Sister's Festival, or Daughter's Festival. One Chinese ritual is that lovers visit the Temple of Matchmaker and pray for their love and happiness; singles also visit the temple and ask for help with luck in love.

Furthermore, England's Valentine's traditions include the singing of songs by children who are rewarded with gifts of candy, fruit, or money. Also, India, which has only been celebrating Valentine's day since 1990 has an intriguing tradition: Lovers put henna tattoos on their bodies to celebrate their love for each other.

It is good to learn the many traditions of Valentine's Day around the world. Who knows, you can meet someone from a different background and because of this knowledge, it will be easier to understand their intents and desires about this lovers affair . Also, if a man forgets Valentine's Day, he can pull out the "Japanese Card" and say, “ I wanted to be more spontaneous and open-minded; I plan to pamper you on the White Day, like they do in Japan”.

Source: www.stvalentinesday.org

Buying Real Estate in Kiev

If you think purchasing real estate in the states is difficult, take a look at the buying processes used in Kiev, Ukraine. The city has some attractive areas, but the question remains: are its property buying procedures and policies quite so attractive? This article will give you some insight into just that.

Paper Work
If you want property in Kiev, be prepared to hire a good lawyer even if the fee is large; one of the greatest obstacles of buying real-estate in the city is the amount of red tape; it is only manageable with much patience and good legal representation.

Utility Bills
Something else to consider if you purchase a residence in Kiev, is that it is likely you will inherit unpaid utility bills from previous owners or renters. Whereas most apartments in the Ukraine still run on the soviet central planning system, it is not uncommon that tenants leave these unpaid statements for future residers.

Ownership Titles
Furthermore, business is conducted through personal relations. This makes it very difficult to come into the country as a foreigner and buy property. “Finding a well-connected real-estate agency is essential, as it is impossible to check the legal status of an apartment without an agency."

There is a lack of a legal system and widespread corruption in Kiev. If a person is not careful, they can end up shoveling out thousands of dollars and signing papers for an apartment that isn't even legal for selling! Reading this article will make any American satisfied with his own real estate polices. Although the US market sets sky high property prices, at least here at home, what is bought is actually legal!

Source: Jason Jones www. EscapeArtist.com

Good News For Female Travelers

With groups around such as Sights and Soul Travel, women no longer have to take trips alone. For years, females have been taking excursions by themselves because they know it is worth feeling a bit lonely, in order to fuel their hobby: traveling to exotic and interesting places around the world.

Due to the large amount of female nomads over the years, the travel industry has recently developed a new segment: women-only tours. On a women-only tour, single travelers can share a room and avoid paying the dreaded “single supplement”; hotels can charge 50 to 100 percent more for a room if you are a single guest.

Now there is no need to ever pay this fee. Besides, traveling with someone else can be a lot of fun! In many cases, women are divorced, widowed, or don’t know someone who has the opportunity or desire to join them; Sights and Soul Travel fixes this problem. Today women can connect with others who share their same passion and while traveling, don't worry about eating alone or going out at night.

The latest edition to the female travel segment are mother-daughter tours; this is a great bonding opportunity for many women. Also, it is common to hear that solo traveling, especially for females, can be dangerous; companies like Sights and Soul Traveler are not just making a profit, they are making a positive contribution to society by protecting females.

Yolanta Barnes is the owner of Sights and Soul Travel and opened her company to spread her love and passion for visiting other places. "Some of us don't like to travel solo," Barnes says, "and we don't like to go on tours where the other people are mostly couples and the activities are all geared toward couples, and we don't want to go on singles tours because we are not necessarily looking for a mate”. It is great to know that two peoples needs to just see the world and have a good time can be so well met.

Barnes’ company empowers women. Together, women can enjoy the joy and art of exploration, share memories, and create friendships. As a female solo traveler, I agree that Sights and Sound Travel is a great value to women, and in the future plan to try out a female travel group. There is only question left: Will there be the same opportunities for men to travel together?

Source: Stephen Hartshorne GoNOMAD.com

Little Italy in Japan

In Japan, it is not necessary to leave the country to feel like you are visiting another part of the world. All over Japan there are theme parks constructed for a foriegn experience. For example, Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki is just one of several Japanese theme parks, from Shima City to Nagoya, offering the opportunity to ride the gondolas of Venice or eat in Little Italy. You can also see the Dutch Towers of the Netherlands or have a picnic in the Madrid’s Plaza de Espana.

The parks can cost up to $2.5 billion dollars to create but are worth the investment because they create a lot of traffic. Japan’s desire to travel outside the country was a result of Japan’s “bubble economy” in the 1980's and now, travel is becoming a large part of Japanese culture. The parks make it possible for those that do not have enough time or money to travel to still see the world. For only $42 or 4800 yen, you can buy a ticket of entry, called a passport, and instantly feel like you have left Japan. All the exhibits in the parks are made to feel authentic; the point is that even if you have gone to Italy, seeing the Italian section of the park will make you feel like you are there again, and not just seeing a model of the country.

“Rather than the broad pastiche that characterizes, say, Disneyland, the mini-monuments of Japan’s cultural theme parks are faithful reproductions executed with stunning accuracy. From bricks to tiles and balcony railings, many of the parks import their raw materials directly from Europe. The crowds won’t come unless it’s real,’ said Mr. Fujiwara. “It’s very important to us that somebody who has been to Italy can come here and feel like it’s the real thing.” As the parks are attracting millions of visitors a year, some of Japan’s longing for traveling seems to be satisfied.

Source:KATIE KITAMURA http://travel.nytimes.com

Training Elephants in Thailand

If you have ever dreamed of becoming an elephant trainer here is your chance. For only $100, you can attend the Elephant Conservation School located an hour south of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The price includes a three-day training course to become a mahout (trainer) and excellent Thai cooking.There is only one real complication: Thai elephants only speak Thai.

If you choose to attend the Mahout Training school there are 14 commands that you must learn. Such commands include “song soong”, a coordination trick; “tag long” which involves jumping over an elephant's head; and “tag long” lets the elephant know it should lay down its head. Not surprisingly, getting down the pronunciation of these commands is a challenge, but David Rich, a participant in the training, assures that there is time to practice.

Once you get the commands down, it’s a lot of fun. Plus, you get to ride an elephant into an exotic jungle. Rich recalls “the first trek into the jungle we quickly learned the most repeated command is bai, which means ‘GO’. The jungle to an elephant is like a chocolate factory to a Willie Wonka kid; every jungle bit is luscious, edible and available”.

Besides training the elephants, Rich learned how to make paper from elephant dung. Although this may sound a bit overwhelming to some, the dung has been bleached and washed beforehand. Nevertheless, get ready to be up to your elbows in it, Rich’s group remolded one pound balls.

The three day course is a once in a life-time experience, and even if you do not master the techniques well enough to receive a diploma, you will love your stay. Rich explains that “As we stood in the spotlights before the cheering crowd and accepted our diplomas, we realized that we had been smiling for three straight days.”

Source: David Rich www.GoNOMAD.com

Affordable Antarctica

Antarctica is a haven for adventurers, animal lovers, bird watchers and iceberg junkies with a penchant for exploring places few travelers have experienced. Before a trip to Antarctica could cost up to a year's rent, but companies like G.A.P (Great Adventure People) have changed this. Today an expedition to Antarctica runs for around $3000.

Carly Blatt, a New York Freelance Writer, shares her experiences on a cruise anchored off Half Moon Island in Antarctica. Unlike in past years, her ship had a mix of travelers ranging from her 23-year-old recent self, to a middle aged man; not just the wealthiest travelers like before.

"The first Zodiac to the island will launch in 10 minutes!” Our expedition leader’s voice boomed throughout the P.A. system of our ice-strengthened ship. The roller coaster-esque ride was over far too quickly. As we landed on the beach of a small island in Antarctica and stepped out into surprisingly clear water, I reflected on the fact that there is something undeniably sexy about traveling to the “seventh” continent. Perhaps it’s the fact that it’s always seemed nearly unattainable. Not to mention the fact that chances are pretty high that after returning from a trip to the far South, you’ll be the only one with seventh-continent bragging rights at most cocktail parties."

Besides that it is attractive to know that your Antarctic tale will have listeners ears curling up, the continent is an amazing place to visit because it offers so much. Blatt mentions hiking the crystallized island, studying the wildlife, and even swimming in the polar waters; clearly this is not your typical cruise. You can also see penguins, petrels, or seals up close. Even the sea ice is a wonder to look at. How many times can you find yourself surrounded with "icebergs the size of large houses and past flatter “tabular” icebergs spanning longer distances than top NFL kickers could ever dream of kicking a field goal?"

The tourist season to go to Antarctica is during the austral summer from November to March. Just keep in mind that it is cold there. After all, Antarctica can be described to be the coldest, windiest, and highest continent on earth.

Source: Carly Blatt www.GoNOMAD.com

Japanese Snow Sculptures

Many people know that Japan has some pretty unique things to see, but have you ever heard of snow sculptures? Since the 1950's Japanese students in Hokkaido have been competing to make the best snow sculptures. Today the event has become the famous Sapparo Snow Festival. Hokkaido is the most northern of the Japanese islands and if you visit Odori Park in Sapparo (of Hokkaido), you can see some amazing creations. A life size dinosaur or a 30-foot sculpture of New York Yankee’s outfielder Hideki Matsui, are not out of the ordinary.

"The festival took a major turn when the Self Defense Force joined. Using their engineering skills, they were able to build much larger sculptures with far more intricate details. Nowadays some sculptures are 50 feet tall and 150 feet wide. The festival got particularly famous in 1972 when it coincided with the Japanese Olympics and received international coverage. "As a result there are about one hundred smaller sculptures made from people from all around the world. Costs for a large sculpture can be up to $100,000; some countries or major corporations sponsor this.

The Sapparo Snow Festival can be enjoyed by all ages. Since the event takes place during Feburary, there are other snow activities to participate in. For kids, there are snow and ice slides to ride and all can fill up their bellies in the food stalls. Also, the ice bar and karaoke booth are fun and great alternatives to the cold. The sculptures stay lit until 8 or 9pm, so the festival is also a fun way to spend a late evening.

If you are interested in seeing the Snow Festival, start to plan the trip anywhere from 6 months to a year in advance. Doing this assures you will get a cheaper airfare and perhaps lower hotel rates. It snows a lot in Sapparo, so make sure bring lots of layers.

Source: Ryan McDonald www.GoNOMAD.com

Stalking the Punans in Southeast Asia

We welcome Melissa Vitti to our blogging ranks. She will be adding her take to the Travel Reader blog. Below is an example of an article she didn't select, but that captures the essence of this blog., from Escape Artist Magazine., by Harold Stephens.

"That night we stayed at the Kapit Hotel, our last bit of luxury for some time to come, and early the next morning we went to the shops along the river to negotiate for long-boats to carry us up river. Luck was with us. The Iban chief of Ruma Dilang, a longhouse near the mouth of the Balleh,
invited us to travel with him and his family in their longboat. We could spend the night in his longhouse. We didn't have the chance to refuse, for instantly a dozen natives picked up our supplies and carted them down to the waterfront to be loaded into the boat.

When I saw the boat, I wasn't too sure we would make it. The frail craft was hollowed from a single tree trunk, and after we were seated, a dozen of us, it had only an inch or two of freeboard above the waterline.

The boat was about thirty feet long, propelled by a twenty-horsepower outboard motor. A young Iban boy who served as lookout sat on the bow. The helmsman sat in the stern and interpreted the arm signals from the boy in front. They threw off the mooring lines and we drifted out into the current. The helmsman cranked up the engine and nosed the bow upstream. He then gave it full throttle. The boat lunged forward and appeared to leap out of the water.

We moved like a surfboard over the swirling water. The bow rode high and the river hissed and slapped beneath us. It was exciting, but also a bit frightening at times. Half submerged logs appeared suddenly. The lookout would signal and the helmsman would turn, just in time.

We left the Rejang and started up the Balleh. In places it was as wide as a lake. We arrived at Ruma Dilang at dusk. As our supplies were being unloaded and carried up the mud banks, a servant from the chief's quarters came to lead us to the longhouse.

The Comoro Islands: Life in Dumoni

Not many people know about Anjouan and how beautiful it is. Anjouan is just one of the small volcanic Comoro islands located at the northern end of the Mozambique Channel. It is halfway between Mozambique and Madagascar and has “stretches of black, sandy beaches; it is truly a tropical jewel set in a sparkling sea.” Martin and Harriet Ottenheimer share their experiences of living in Domoni, Anjouan during the 1960s. They describe their stay as having been fascinating and humble.

“When we arrived in the town of Domoni, there were no hotels, restaurants, electricity, or running hot water. There was one narrow, twisting, mountainous paved road, a handful of cars, one radio, and a public telephone at the post office (that worked sometimes). In spite of the lack of amenities we set up housekeeping and settled into a wonderful way of life, learning the language and the culture of our hosts.”

Even though the people of Domoni still have the same spirit and heart as in the 60’s, Dumoni and its sister islands (Grande Comore, Moheli,and Mayotte) have been affected by a lot of political turmoil. All the islands have been through a lot; several coups, a government takeover, and the assassination of a President. All have deterred foreign investment.

In spite of these problems, the future of the Dumoni and the rest of the Comoros is still promising. There is now some political stability and people are trying to meet the challenges to achieving a good living.

Source: Martin And Harriet Ottenheimer EscapeArtist.Com

Russia's Seven Wonders

You cannot call yourself a true traveler until you have explored Russia. Check out the article, Russia's Seven Wonders, to read about all the places to see while there.“Offering art, architecture and culture joined with virgin wilderness and sun-splashed beaches, Russia is truly an adventurous traveler's wonderland.”

Travelers that visit the country need to be careful not to miss out on Russia’s treasures. There is so much more to see than just the typical tourist hot spots, St. Petersburg and Moscow. If you visit either of these two places and do the standard program, say the Hermitage and the Peter and Paul Fortress in St. Petersburg, you will still have an enjoyable time. It would be like going to Rome and visiting the Vatican and Colosseum. You still experience more than the average homebody, but you will miss the some priceless scenes. Make sure to see more than just the two main cities.

“Most foreigners don't know what they are missing, said Sergei Shpilko, president of the Russian Association of Travel Agents, or RATA. They don't realize they could be taking a cruise along the waters of the Volga, bathing in hot springs surrounded by volcanoes in Kamchatka or taking a boat over the crystal-clear waters of Lake Baikal”.

Here is just a small taste of what else you could be doing and seeing in Russia: Visit the Golden Ring, a group of towns and cities of restored and abandoned churches, monasteries, museums, and preserved wooden villages. Go to the Beach; Sochi is a unique experience offering a subtropical climate, warm seas, arboretum and gardens. See the Altai and Caucasus mountains or travel on Russia's lakes and rivers; the Volga is a 3,700-kilometer-long river and Lake Baikal is one of the genuine Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Finally, if you are really bold, explore Siberia with Trans-Siberian Railroad.

Source: Denise Albrighton The Moscow Times Business Review