Ginger Warder

Back to the Future in Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville is getting a new respect, from a writer who used to live there and returns to be surprised.

Santee Cooper Country, South Carolina for Fishing and Fun

Santee Cooper Country offers superb fishing, cozy rondette cabins and golf in a place that not many have visited in rural South Carolina.

This 200-year-old thatched cottage looks just like it did in past centuries. Photo courtesy of Cnoc Suain.

Connemara, Ireland’s West Coast

Connemara, on the West Coast of Ireland, is the home of the famous white ponies, and also a place to hear stories of the old days, and legends of Irish history.

From Edgy Barcelona to Serene Southern France

A two-country road trip, first up, Barcelona and Sagrada Familia and cafes of this exciting city, then some time in a castle in Minervois, Southern France.

Free Things to Do in Historic Richmond, Virginia

Free things to do in Richmond, VA: Many free attractions for history buffs and nature lovers in Richmond Virginia, including Maymont, the Hollywood Cemetary.

Eastern Ireland: 5,000 Years of History

Explore Ireland’s East: Wexford, Kell, the Slane and Trim Castles, or spend a few days in the quaint historic towns of Ireland’s southeast region.

France: Exploring Cevennes Nat’l Park

A Locavore’s Tour of Cévennes National Park — MEET offers exclusive experiences with local experts on food, wine, and culture. By Ginger Warder When I was invited to test an eco-tourism itinerary titled Hiking Up a Gourmet Appetite in Cevennes National Park in France I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I was…

Exciting Hawking Trip with Nora Roberts

Ireland: Ginger Warder goes to Ireland and follows the path of her favorite author, Nora Roberts learning to fly a hawk with a falconer.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Ginger Warder takes us through the highlights of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond one of best museums in the state.

Fido’s Florida: Dog-Friendly Guide to the Sunshine State

Grab Your Gucci Poochie and Head to Miami By Ginger Warder Where else but in America’s version of the Riviera would you find a restaurant for canines only? While I was traveling to research my upcoming book, Fido’s Florida: A Dog-Friendly Guide to the Sunshine State, my 100-pound German Shepherd,…

Miramar Beach Chairs in South Walton Florida.

How I Wrote My First iPhone Travel App

How a member of the AARP learned to write a guide to St. Petersburg, Florida, for the iphone: a step-by-step guide to writing an iphone travel application

Rauschberg-ansicht (courtesy commons.wikimedia.org)

Visiting Upper Bavaria: Hospitality With a Heart

Upper Bavaria: Ginger Warder visits Upper Bavaria with her friend, a tiny yodeling cow and enjoys the hearty food and beautiful mountain views.

GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

Take a few minutes to travel the world with The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast. Brought to you by the long-running GoNOMAD travel website, The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast brings you audio stories from destinations around the globe. It’s short-form… 3-7 minute long episodes. No jarring AM radio-style theme songs, no ads, just an interesting short travel story and some food for thought, from editor Max Hartshorne. Fun!
While you’re planning your next trip or travel adventure, download and listen to The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast.

GoNomad is part of the Voyascape Travel Network & you can find more of our travel podcasts from around the world at https://voyascape.com/
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The New Year celebration in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and traditions that provides a unique experience for all who partake. The city is alive with energy as it transforms into a vibrant hub for festivities.

January 1 is not just a day but the beginning of a week-long holiday where locals and visitors alike engage in a variety of celebratory activities. The streets are bustling with life, illuminated by lanterns that glow softly against the backdrop of the night sky, while the scent of street food tantalizes the senses. This journey through Chiang Mai reveals the many layers of its New Year festivities, from its breathtaking natural beauty to the deep-rooted cultural practices that make this time of year so special. Among the most striking sights during this season is the blooming of the Himalayan cherry blossoms.

A short trip to Kun Chang Hian allows visitors to witness these stunning flowers in full bloom, creating a magical setting for exploration. Here, one can engage with local traditions, such as listening to the kyan, the traditional bamboo mouth organ played by village children, or trying one’s hand at archery using bamboo bows.

The culinary scene is equally delightful, featuring local delicacies, including the famous grilled pork sausage, which embodies the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. As the celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve, a profound sense of spirituality envelops the city. Temples become sanctuaries for nighttime prayer, and the flickering lights of candles enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Participants gather to release floating lanterns, a symbolic gesture of releasing past burdens and inviting new fortunes into their lives.

This ritual not only enhances the visual splendor of the night sky but also fosters a deep connection among participants, creating a moment of shared hope and renewal. The New Year in Chiang Mai is more than just a celebration; it is a heartfelt embrace of tradition, community, and the promise of new beginnings.