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lovely-qualms · 6 years ago

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FMA Secret Santa 2018 Gift!!

Ahh, I’m cutting it so close, I’m so sorry I didn’t post it earlier! This is for @sassyfirealchemist (who coincidentally was also my Secret Santa!) for the Secret Santa exchange by @fmasecretsanta2018 !

I hope you like, and I’m sorry for the lateness again!

Title: Fortunes and Feelings

Rating: T+

Relationships: Roy Mustang/ Edward Elric

Tags: Historical (Victorian-ISH), Romance, Humor, Policeman!Roy, Psychic!Ed, circus

Find this fic on: FF.net and AO3

There were two things that Roy believed were working rather valiantly towards making his morning effectively terrible- well, three were he not used Hughes’ incessant early-morning ramblings. The first was the apologetic woman standing at the entrance of his favorite coffee spot who dared tell Roy the place had closed due to bankruptcy (immediately after this, a passing carriage horse had kicked a puddle directly at his boots, which did nothing to Roy’s sour mood). And, well, the young policeman and his chatty colleague currently stood in the midst of the second noisy, colorful, terrible thing.

The bloody circus.

“When I bring Elicia she’ll win every prize there is! Oh-Roy- she’s going to be so excited about that carousel! Don’t you think?” Hughes nearly squealed in delight at the thought of his daughter running around the amusements (wastes of money, in Roy’s opinion).

“Yes Hughes, I’m sure Elicia will have great fun here. Why a circus needs two policemen to keep guard in the ass crack of the morning I’m not sure.” Roy grumbled. It was currently rather cloudy and windy, and the few people actually here that weren’t staff or guard seemed to regret their forwardness of schedule.

Hughes shrugged, “You know pickpockets and drunkards love to ride the coattails of these kinds of places. Oh, look! There’re the acrobats!”

Just as Roy rolled his eyes at his friend’s behavior, a young blonde man swathed in thick brocade and fluttering silks approached them. Looking around, Roy pegged down a similarly silky tent that must belong to this man that lay to the right of them.

Roy and Hughes shook his hand (which Roy silently noted was automail) before he spoke, “Good morning, Officers. Chief Grand sent you, right? I’ll be giving you a little tour of the area, as our ringleader has a lot of last-minute preparations to take care of before the crowds really set in.”

“Do we get a name, o tour guide?” Roy asked, masking his displeasure with veiled sarcasm.

The blonde’ mouth quirked into an amused smile, “Ed. My brother and I are psychics.” Out of adherence to decorum, Roy refrained from rolling his eyes, but his skepticism must have shown through because Ed gave him an unamused look. “Let’s go see some hot spots of potential crime, shall we?“

….

They made their way slowly through the large field of gallantry and show, Ed pointing out various tents and shady areas that needed ‘special supervision’. The young man seemed incredibly familiar with the layout of the area, even though the circus hadn’t been set up for but a day or two. When asked, Ed simply explained that their layout was similar wherever they went, and he knew whose tents were whose and “all that shit”. His teasing personality got on Roy’s nerves, especially since his day hadn’t started out particularly well either.

“Those are where the drunkards like to drink and flirt with ladies and whatnot” Ed gestured to several gaps between tents sporting respectively, an ashcan and several empties liquor bottles.

“Attractive,” Roy muttered.

Ed cast a quick, annoyed glace at Roy, “Jeez, Who spat in your breakfast?”

Roy ignored this remark, turning to Hughes instead, “I’ll patrol northern half of the grounds, you get the Southern. We can switch at noon.”

Hughes gave the teasing affirmative, “Sir, yes sir,” going as far as to offer Roy a salute before turning away to his patrol before Roy could snap back. When Roy turned around to Ed, he realized the blonde had disappeared into his nearby tent, leaving Roy alone to work.

————————————

Roy didn’t see Ed until the next week, as the circus was incredibly busy in its opening days. Between shifts patrolling the northern or southern blocks of the fairgrounds, Roy and Hughes made it their personal goals to find the most ridiculous attraction there.

Roy, in a valiant attempt to top Hughes’ sighting of “world’s hairiest man”, decided to test his luck with the fortune tellers’ tent on his break that Thursday. Surely some ridiculous prognosis of his life would override some bloke who doesn’t shave enough.

Roy easily recognized the tent- it was the reddest, most decorated tent of the lot (outside of the central Big Top of course), huge lettered sign notwithstanding. Because of the time and cool morning breeze, not many people were out yet, so Roy took the opportunity to slip through the silks hanging in the doorway and into the small room.

Inside, the tent was considerably darker than outside. The thick canvas walls blocked out the sun, and only a few candles and a dim lantern lit the inside. Ed sat on the opposite end of a small table covered in yet more silks, cards, books, and glass knick-knacks.

When Ed recognized his new customer, he smirked. “Officer, don’t you have a patrol to keep up?”

Roy sat casually in the chair across from the blonde, “I’m on my break. Decided to come check out the validity of the local psychic.”

“Well, you don’t get to check me out for free.” Ed snipped, cringing a second later when he realized how his words came out.

Roy rolled his eyes and dropped two coins into the box by the door, “Now may I check you out?”

Ed glared, “Just sit and show me your hand.”

Roy did as he was told. Ed grabbed his hand, explaining as he picked opened a large book with his free hand, “Today I’m giving palm readings. I want to switch it up every week or so, but this is a pretty simple method. Good for the start of the week.”

“You don’t really think my hand will tell me my future.” Roy stated, already not on board with Ed’s ‘methods’.

Ed looked up at Roy blandly, “Your hand’s not telling you. I’m telling you, based on how your palm lines read.”

“Well then, what do my palm lines say?”

Ed looked intently at Roy’s hand for a second, tracing down one or two larger lines, “Well this one represents your inclination towards your friends over your family, and this one here means you’ll have good luck in love….” Ed explained.

Roy snorted, “Now I know you’re phony.”

“Hey, I’m just reading what it tells me.” Ed huffed, still concentrated on the hand in his grasp. He drew a finger down Roy’s hand lightly, “Let’s see now… despite your thrilling occupation, your occupational future looks fairly calm- see, that’s this line here.” Roy refrained from rolling his eyes yet again. Ed already knew his occupation; of course, he could deduce that he lived a relatively more “thrilling” life than others.

Silence reigned for a while as Ed analyzed the finer trails of Roy’s palm, going so far as to open a reference book somewhere around the base of his thumb. The silence lasted long enough for Roy’s palm to become lightly clammy under the pressure and heat of the other’s hands before Ed broke his gaze, looking up at Roy’s face almost apologetically, “Everything else’s too vague, especially since all I’ve got is this candlelight. It sets the mood, but really messes up my vision.”

Roy, taking this admission as proof of Ed’s position as more of entertainment than of divine reading, stood, “Well, Edward, your services have been most interesting.

Ed wrinkled his nose, “My services- You make it sound like I’m a prostitute or something.”

Roy laughed, “Hey it’s you who said it.”

Ed looked exasperatedly at the policeman, “Don’t you have some drunkards to kick around or something?”

Roy, still amused, left the tent ever more intent to return.

-------------

He returned to Hughes after their shifts were over, finding the other man fawning over a large selection of goodies that, quote, his “darling Elicia would win for sure”.

“Well, you’re still winning. The psychic’s more sarcastic than he is ridiculous, not that I believe a word of that superstitious crap.” Roy sighed, leaning against the wall of a large pink booth.

“Where’s the ‘but’?” Hughes asked, knowing his colleague all too well.

“I have to make sure, so I’m going to check out his tent again next week.

Hughes’ smirk was enough to make Roy wish there hadn’t been a ‘but’, “Sure that’s why.”

----------------------

Ed intrigued the policeman, and he was a far shot easier to talk to than the stuffy women who waited outside of attractions while their children wreaked havoc inside. So, with two coins and a healthy dose of skepticism, Roy returned the next week. Instead of palm books and cards, atop the tablecloth sat a box of stones, metal nubs, and string.

Ed, who had been fiddling with a string tied around a purple stone, looked up with interest, “Officer, I didn’t think you’d turn up. Crime’s been pretty high recently.”

“I can take a small break, can’t I?” Roy responded.

“You wouldn’t be shirking your duties, would you? An upstanding police officer such as yourself?” came the rebuttal.

Roy tossed his coins into the nearby coinbox, “Well, tell me my future and maybe I can dutifully return to my post.”

Ed barked out a laugh, “You’re kind of stuck up, you know that?”

Roy smirked, “So I’ve been told.” He glanced at the stones and string atop the table at which he now sat, “What’re all of these for?”

Ed’s grin grew as he drew into his element, “Pendulum reading, it’s a personal favorite of mine.”

“How does it work?”

Ed picked up a thin chain, “I’ll show you. What’s your birth month?”

“February. Why?” Roy asked.

Ed sifted through his collection on stones which all had little metal loops at their bases. He pulled out a skinny little amethyst from the depths of the box, explaining, “Your birthstone- It makes the reading clearer.” Roy hummed in acknowledgment, but let Ed focus on his work. He’d taken out various maps and calendars, and he had fixed the amethyst to a small chain. Once he was set up, Ed asked, What do you want to know? Location usually works best.”

The reading was fun enough. Roy asked a lot of trivial questions, watching the crystal swing around until it stilled over a location on the map (he was fairly certain Ed was manipulation the rock, but he didn’t comment). He liked chatting to Ed about the questions and their answers more than he did the actual reading, however.

Eventually, Roy stood up, noting his need to actually work before excusing himself from the tent.

------------------

Over the weeks, Roy saw Ed frequently through the circus grounds. They usually chatted briefly and went their separate ways. Every week, Roy also made a point to visit Ed’s tent for a reading of some sort. He had given up on trying to tell himself it was merely intrigue that brought him to Ed’s tent. He was fully aware that he wanted to be in the spirited blonde’s company.

Despite their daily meetings in the grounds, it wasn’t until two months after the circus’ arrival that Roy saw Ed outside of the grounds, in plain, civilian clothing. It was a Sunday, the one day the circus was closed, and coincidentally Roy’s day off.

He had been strolling down the city’s main line of stores, gazing into windows for a birthday present for Elicia, when he had seen the telltale flash of golden hair through a window reflection.

After the first incident, Roy began to see Ed in the marketplace rather frequently. He never bought anything, only talked to store owners and looked into the window of the now-vacant coffee spot. Roy always saw him at side-glances and in passing, so he never actually got around to talking to Ed outside of their occasional on-duty meetings until the next Sunday.

Exiting the local grocer’s, Roy nearly collided head-on with the small man he’d seen around town. Ed let out a colorful array of expletives, cursing Roy for making him drop his food without even looking up to see who he’d collided with.

Roy couldn’t help his amused smile, “For a fortune-teller, you’re not so perceptive on the streets.”

Ed, finally recognizing the recipient of his verbal attacks, snapped his gaze up at Roy, “Officer guy! You should’ve looked where you’re going.”

“I prefer ‘Roy’ off-duty, thank you.” He clipped back, moving from the doorway of the grocer’s to let passers-by through. Ed definitely looked different in plain clothing (just a button-down and some brown slacks), though Roy did notice how the button-down’s rolled-up sleeves did well to Ed’s general appearance. It showed off his masterful automail wonderfully, as well. If anything, he looked more mature than he did in his circus getup.

“Want a hand?” He added as the blonde was struggling to fit his wares into the crumpled paper grocery bags.

Ed shrugged, and Roy took it as an invitation to help. He fit the remaining containers into place and, before Ed could protest, took one of the bags in his arms with the excuse, “I’ve got nothing better to do.” In reality, Ed had become something of a fancy to Roy, and he intended to spend his valuable time seeing that fancy through. After all, the circus wouldn’t stay in Central forever.

Ed looked away, either embarrassed or frustrated, muttering, “Wouldn’t wanna damage your ego too badly by denying you, seems like you wouldn’t be too used to the concept.”

“Oh yeah, I’m never told no. The criminals simply run into the police car. In fact, they have to fight over who gets a ride; it’s simply infuriating!” Roy replied, shifting the bag a bit as they crossed a stopped road two blocks from the circus grounds.

Ed rolled his eyes but didn’t look particularly offended. He changed the subject, “That old coffee shop downtown: Why did it close?”

Roy shrugged, “The owner’s daughter said bankruptcy. It’s weird, because the location is great, and I never saw the place empty.”

Ed nodded but had fallen in a contemplative state that Roy felt uninclined to break him from. They reached the circus grounds at this point, and Ed snapped out of it to take Roy’s grocery sack and bid him adieu.

----------

The circus was packed up two days later. Roy tried to hide his indignation, but he could tell that Hughes sensed his mad mood.

“Come on, Roy, we can go back to catching the big guys now.” Hughes stated as they watched the pack of acrobats walk into the big tent with their equipment tied into large bundles.

“Yeah.” Roy stated mildly, pushing off the wall, “I’ll make a round.”

Hughes’ sigh didn’t escape Roy as he ambled through the falling tents and scattered flyers. he found himself outside of Ed’s tent before he knew where he’d walked. The fortune teller’s blonde head poked out from behind the curtain-door, “Roy, hey! You haven’t come around in the past few days.”

“Yeah, there’s been a lot of ruffians trying to get their final few crimes in before you all go off.” He shrugged, “Need any help packing?”

Ed gave Roy a rare smile, “Yeah, come on in.”

He was tasked with placing all of Ed’s fragile-looking crystals and glass relics into boxes full of hay, which was difficult when the objects were all awkward shapes and curves that didn’t fit nicely into a rectangular space. While working, Roy kept looking over at Ed, who seemed oddly peppy. He’d have thought moving around would be laborious and frustrating, but Ed smiled almost secretly to himself. When they were done with his packing, Roy turned to find Ed looking at him searchingly.

“I guess all that’s left is the tent, huh.” The policeman stated.

Ed looked around, “I guess so, but I can take that down myself. Thanks for the help.”

“It’s no problem,” Roy dismissed, not sure what to do, “Um, I guess have good luck in the next city…”

Ed rolled his eyes and stepped forwards, grabbing Roy’s arms and planting a light kiss on the other man’s lips. Roy froze, not quite comprehending what was happening. He hadn’t even considered his crush being a shared attraction. Through Roy’s stunned silence, Ed smirked, “I don’t like goodbyes. Get out of my tent, asshole, I’ll see you around, yeah?”

Roy couldn’t help his smile, “Yeah, see you around.” He left the tent with a small skip and didn’t explain to a confused Hughes how a patrol round of the grounds had so drastically changed his mood.

-----------

He didn’t see Ed around that day, unfortunately, as they were all gone the next day. Only a mess of paper and trash remained of the circus, and Roy felt all the more dejected for it. It was his day off, and he walked down the downtowns strip, trying to find some way to waste his time and, maybe, distract himself from the day before.

He left a clothing store empty-handed and looked over longingly at the closed doors of the closed coffee shop, really wanting some of their past wares at the moment. What he didn’t expect to see was the door open, and a young man with short, dirty blonde hair adjusting some tables outside. Curiously, he walked across the street to the man.

“Good Afternoon” he greeted, and the man looked up with a happy expression.

“Hello, you curious? We’ve had a lot of questions.” He replied.

Roy shrugged, “I guess I am. Not many shops here go back into business so quickly.”

The boy smiled, “My brother an I just bought the place yesterday. We were part of the circus that just left, and needed a change of pace.”

“Oh?” Roy’s interest had been effectively piqued, “What kind of store will it be?”

A voice from the doorway answered, “We’re selling oddities and psychic services.”

Roy whipped around, “Ed!”

The blonde laughed at Roy’s surprise, “I told you I’d see you around.”

“You didn’t have to be so cryptic,” Roy responded, but couldn’t hide his excitement. Ed had an equally happy quirk of a smile behind his trained natural look, “Where’s the fun in that? You don’t look like you’re working, wanna help set up instead of standing here pestering Al?”

Al protested his brother’s comment and Roy rolled his eyes, already crossing the threshold behind Ed, “I get it- you just like to use me.”

Ed feigned exasperation, “Took you long enough to figure it out.”

Roy helped Ed set up shop for the rest of the afternoon, but not without first pulling him out of Al’s sight and properly reciprocating Ed’s earlier kiss.

His day went much better than planned.

#fmasecretsanta #fmasecretsanta2018 #fma #royed #victorian #edward elric #Roy Mustang #circus

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jayhe · 4 years ago

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Post Visit Evaluation and Analysis

Before visiting Beihai Park, I was pretty enthusiastic about the trip, since I wanted to see the cultural and historic buildings and structures of China, which were pretty hard to find elsewhere. Moreover, one of the key concepts that I had before the trip to Beihai Park was that the Park would be a peaceful place, and visitors would be calm after visiting the destination. Furthermore, before the trip, I was also speculating that there would be a food extravaganza at Beihai Park. Overall, my expectation associated with the Beihai Park was wholesome as I thought the place would be fun, exciting, and a pretty healthy natural environment and my perceptions regarding the people were that hosts would be welcoming and the fellow tourist would be joyful, and happy.

Moreover, another crucial aspect of our visit was the online experience that convinced us to visit the place. Firstly, talking about the details, information and data available on the park, it can be identified that there was sizeable information regarding the Beihai Park on several different online websites. Moreover, the information was rich and detailed which helped in planning which was suitable for us. Secondly, the website of Beihai Park was also well developed, designed with rich information regarding several different buildings, and structures inside the park, which allowed the visitors to understand the core message, history, and concepts behind each one of them and identify which are the most crucial for a visitor. However, a downside was that the information regarding customer services was not quite adequate, although, the information regarding different services was available in abundance, the quality and management of these services was not discussed which left me and maybe many other visitors in doubt.

A major flaw was that there were many private trip advisors and agencies, which provided these details, which cannot be completely trusted, because the sources were private and they have interests in our trip, which can be a reason behind manipulated and false information regarding customer services to attract customers. From an online search, it was pretty evident that the hosts to the visitors, which include the local community around the Beihai Park were welcoming to the visitors as they embraced foreign people coming and getting close to their culture. It was also clear that the local community stood against any kind of discrimination, which we observed during our trip as none of us became a victim of religious, ethnic, or gender discrimination etc. Moreover, I observed that if any kind of discrimination is shown from the foreigners the local community detested that act and tried to stand up for the victim. From the latest studies, it can be identified that the Chinese government is putting a lot of emphasis on the tourism and development section of the country. I observed that tourism and development strategies used by the Chinese government for attracting more tourists. For example, in 2000, Beijing gained many foreign investments and the numbers increased to around 80 per cent from the previous year. The foreign brands and different local developments in transport and accommodation were some of the most crucial factors that attracted me as these brands, and facilities were pretty helpful for me during my tour and according to my observation, many tourists felt the same.

Based on personal experience, organisations operating in the Beihai Park can initiate events at the park to attract a larger crowd. These events can mostly be related to the historic and cultural aspects of Chinese culture. However, in Beihai Park, no organisation organises any event and I witnessed it. This indicates that organising events is not one of the primary strategies of Beihai Park, which is a shame because if there would be events organised in the Beihai Park the, number of visitors would significantly increase; thereby increasing the sales and profits of the Park. It can be argued that the destinations are a good place for corporate meetings, and incentive travelling. Although there are no exclusive facilities provided for these kinds of meetings, yet the standards facilities provided are enough to accommodate a large of group people who have come for a corporate meeting or incentive travelling. Moreover, the restrooms of different varieties can also be utilised for these people to take rest and relieve stress.

The environmental factors that I witnessed pre-visit and during the visit were that the Beihai park is full of adventure, and livelihood and believed it was even better at the park, when I saw it from my own eyes. There was very less pollution in the air, and it was fresh and pure in such a way that it was a joy to breathe. Moreover, it was evident that the management has put a lot of work into the infrastructure and the pathways, structures, and buildings were built in an immaculate way and old-fashion, yet fascinating designs and also maintained pretty well. Furthermore, the place was a heaven for someone who likes to connect with the culture and arts of civilisation. Almost every structure or building I visited, there were sculptures, items, art pieces, and drawings that shed light on the rich history of the Forbidden City at the time of different Emperors. Moreover, every building carried a message within itself, which conveyed to the visitors once they take a deep look and surf through those buildings.

When it comes to tourist infrastructure and transport system for Beihai Park, it can be reflected that there are some positives and some negatives aspects. Firstly, what I experienced was that the accommodation was adequate and accessible, but the price was relatively higher, yet the quality was good enough in the 3-4 star hotels. However, if someone wants to go for luxury accommodation, the prices are drastically higher, which is a downside. Moreover, if the transport system is considered, it is evident that the public transport is available, but the time it takes to reach the park from key areas of the city is long, and according to Sharpley (2009), this long travel time duration frustrates the visitors. I preferred taxi over the public transport of Beijing because the fares were not extraordinarily high and the time consumed reduced drastically.

Although, there are quite a few negative impacts of tourism on the Beijing city for example contribution to pollution, traffic, and disturbance in the eco-system and some of these are pretty hard to control (Boniface, 2021) However, the efforts of the government to reduce these effects are commendable. Firstly, there are bike-sharing systems, which contribute to a reduction in pollution and traffic, as a bicycle does not produce pollution and do not cover much space on the rods (Ruan et al., 2020). Moreover, the online house rentals services allow tourist to reduce the efforts in finding adequate houses for rent and book them easily when they want (Ruan et al., 2020). Throughout the trip, what I experienced was that both inside and outside the Beihai Park, the use of efficient machines were preferred and encouraged and the low-carbon emission technologies were utilised to carry out several practices which contributed to the reduction of pollution through access activities from tourists.

There some pretty adequate visitors’ facilities all over Beijing, which helps the tourists in navigating their way around the city with efficiency, in addition to the provision of details regarding common tourists’ spots. Although Beijing is a technologically advanced city; however the destination of Beihai Park presented a very detailed interpretation of Chinese history and culture, so it cannot be denied that the city is developed in terms of science and technology, yet there are destinations like Beihai Park which allows the tourists to get attracted towards authentic historical developments and Chinese cultural history. Visitor management was another key aspect of Beihai Park. The visitors are first made to uniformly pass the check-in at the gates to ensure that they have tickets etc. Moreover, there are guide groups for the international visitors yet due to enough information available on the internet and from the Beihai Park enquiry counters, most people opt to visit personally without a guide and explore the destination. I also preferred the personal touring option as it allowed me to go wherever I wanted at any time, rather than being bound to move in a pack and report at certain places to ensure the group is still intact. Personally, I observed no particular sustainability issues around the tour to the whole Beihai Park and I found everything I wanted at the right place with great ease.

However, one particular issue that I and many other tourists faced was that sometimes due to the language barrier, visitors are unable to explain their requirements to local business personnel or Beihai Park workers. Moreover, the accommodations for tourists were pretty encouraging in my opinion. For example, the hotel in which I stayed, there were comfortable rooms with good quality beds. Moreover, the place looked immaculate with great room service. The food was also pretty good, and the hotel allowed the tourists to play indoor games in their facility. All these factors contributed to increasing motivation in the tourist to travel more as they felt relaxed and pleased with their accommodation (Golden-Romero, 2007). There are three major types of accommodation near Beihai Park. Firstly there are small hotels which people use for only sleeping purposes and these hotels are good enough for visitors to stay for the night eat and go out (Jones et al., 2016).

Moving forward there are a bit more luxurious hotels with better facilities and more spacious rooms. At the highest level, there are 5 or 7-star hotels with top-notch services and rooms and a large area for the guest to move around. It can be identified that these hotels provide customers with almost everything they desire during their stay (Clarke and Chen, 2009). It is quite oblivious that the prices also increase with luxury. Although Beihai Park is doing pretty good at the moment yet some of the key challenges that the Park is facing and can face in the future are that firstly after a certain time people can get bore of the place if they visit it more than 3 or 4 times as they will get to know every part of the place. This happens due to a lack of interactive events and festivals at the destination (Van der Wagen, 2010). Moreover, the language barrier also plays a big role in de-motivating visitors to participate in certain activities because it feels awkward to be unable to understand and make others understand the language. Another key challenge is that the use of public transport is pretty hectic for tourist as the time taken to reach the destination is pretty high. An exclusive transport service for Beihai Park can help to resolve or eradicate this issue.

References

Boniface, B., 2021. Worldwide_Destinatination.

Clarke, A. and Chen, W., 2009. International hospitality management. Routledge.

Golden-Romero, P., 2007. Hotel convention sales, services and operations. Routledge.

Jones, P., Hillier, D. and Comfort, D., 2016. Sustainability in the hospitality industry. International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management.

Liu, K. and Ma, J., 2016. 3D-Scanning and Computer Reverse Engineering Technology to Preserve Inscriptions at Beihai Park. International Journal of Simulation: Systems, Science and Technology, 17, pp.38-1.

QIN, H., 2015. Restoration of Plant Landscapes in the Building Complex of Chanfu Temple and Wanfo Tower in Beihai Park. Journal of Landscape Research, 7(3).

Ruan, W., Kang, S. and Song, H., 2020. Applying protection motivation theory to understand international tourists’ behavioural intentions under the threat of air pollution: A case of Beijing, China. Current Issues in Tourism, 23(16), pp.2027-2041.

Sharpley, R., 2009. Tourism development and the environment: Beyond sustainability?. Earthscan.

Shuai, Z.H.A.N.G. and Xiong, L.I., 2012. Appreciation of the landscape gardening art of Beihai Park. Journal of Hunan Agricultural University (Natural Sciences), p.S1.

Van der Wagen, L., 2010. Event management. Pearson Higher Education AU.

Williams, S. and Lew, A.A., 2014. Tourism geography: Critical understandings of place, space and experience. Routledge

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orabasesolutions · 4 years ago

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How Can You Prepare For A Work Future You Can’t Even See?

In the words of psychiatrist R. D. Laing, we live in a moment of history where change is so fast-paced that we “begin to see the present only when it is already disappearing.”

Change is not just faster. It’s also exploding in quantity and magnitude. Experts say we can expect more change in our lifetimes than has occurred since the beginning of civilization more than ten millennia ago. Trying to keep up with change can feel like getting trapped on a runaway treadmill. Managing it can be even harder.

This reality poses special challenges for people in the workplace.

Think about it. Many of the top jobs on LinkedIn didn’t even exist just a few years ago. It’s anyone’s guess how many as-yet-unknown jobs will be the hot tickets ten years from now, or even five, or maybe even two.

Nobody understands this better than Michelle R. Weise, a renowned thought leader in the field of the future of work and education. She’s founder of the Strada Institute of the Future of Work. Her thought-provoking book is Long Life Learning: Preparing for Jobs That Don’t Even Exist Yet.

For anyone who wants to take a proactive approach to education and career planning, Michelle’s book is an important read.

Rodger Dean Duncan: Due to the “algorithmic editing” of their online searches, many people live inside a so-called “filter bubble” and no longer have access to a balanced information diet. What’s your advice on dealing with such filters?

Michelle R. Weise: How we relate to one another is changing drastically because of new forms of artificial intelligence. We’re surrounded by things with which we agree as opposed to differing viewpoints that might challenge our thinking and make us feel uncomfortable. This is hugely problematic as we consider that researchers are suggesting that empathy and emotional intelligence are skills that may empower us to out-compete or better coordinate with machines in the future.

At first blush, it seems promising that more automation will force us to demonstrate our uniquely human skills. But just because we’re human doesn’t necessarily mean we excel at the human side of work. These aren’t innate skills; we must practice them.

Duncan: So what’s the implication of this?

Weise: It’s hard work putting ourselves in someone else’s shoes. But it’s much harder to empathize when we’re never exposed to those challenging views in the first place. It’s therefore important that more of our citizenry become aware that this is happening through every single click we make in the apps we use on our smartphones, tablets, or computers.

Countries like Finland may have the right approach with its “1%” AI initiative. With the support of government and private companies, the country is trying to teach 1% of the country’s population (approximately 55,000 people) basic concepts at the root of artificial intelligence technology. Although seemingly small-scale, the thrust of what the country is trying to accomplish is incredibly important.

As tasks increasingly get digitized, it’ll be ever more critical for the humans coordinating with the computers or robots to have enough domain knowledge to assess and check the work of the machines. We must be able to question the AI that undergirds all of our technologies, rather than let these technologies outstrip our ability to control them. Otherwise, our filter bubbles will become even more insular, and our ability to connect with one another will weaken without practice.

Duncan: The effect of more hours focused on screens means that people are investing less time practicing person-to-person skills with others. What’s the impact of that on an individual’s preparation for the workplace of the future?

Weise: Without deliberate practice of our human skills, we may inadvertently be impairing our competitive advantage for the future of work. Emotional intelligence, or our emotional quotient (EQ), as an example, is connected to larger issues of self-awareness and self-control, as well as optimism and flexibility. It helps us persist, face hardship, and deal with delayed gratification. In our work lives, it means we can take feedback well and demonstrate grit in the face of real challenges. Our bosses view us as more accountable and coachable with stronger EQ. These leadership skills are a powerful differentiator for employees; higher EQ translates into earnings on average of $29,000 more per year. But without deliberate practice, we may end up derailing or stagnating, unable to advance in our careers and provide for our families.

Duncan: In addition to paralyzing the world economy, the Covid-19 pandemic has unmasked a lot of problems that were in plain sight. What has the pandemic helped reveal about the issues of learning?

Weise: The global pandemic laid bare how fragile our multiple, fragmented systems of K–12 education, postsecondary education, and workforce training are. Siloed and unintegrated, our systems had long neglected millions of people looking to access the relevant information, funding, advising, support, and skills training they need in order to advance. And when Covid-19 hit, it became all too clear that our systems of learning and work were not equipped to skill up and transition large numbers of workers to jobs that are in demand.

Duncan: For a variety of reasons, online courses are gaining “market share” in the world of education. What are the keys to creating and delivering an online course that is not only engaging for the students but actually delivers great value?

Weise: The last thing we need right now is more online degree programs or credentials. There are already roughly 738,000 unique credentials flooding the education and labor markets. You’d think all these options would offer learners a selection of precise career pathways. Instead, the sheer number of programs creates more hiring friction between learners and employers. Employers already are struggling to differentiate between the vast array of signals they see on resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

Today, the millions who have lost and are losing their jobs will be focused on making ends meet. They are seeking new models that allow them to quickly acquire and demonstrate the skills employers want. They are seeking cost-effective, briefer and more targeted pathways that launch them rapidly into a job. They will not need a bundled, comprehensive program that could take years to complete—and may not effectively signal to employers what they can do. It’s more important to distill learning into the most critical and flexible modules to redeploy talent as rapidly as possible.

Duncan: You suggest the need for a new “learning ecosystem” that incorporates five guiding principles. You say it must be Navigable, Supportive, Targeted, Integrated, and Transparent. Can you give us a brief guided tour of that ecosystem?

Weise: More adults will face multiple career transitions, demanding the acquisition and demonstration of new skills. And those job changes need to feel seamless to learners, which certainly is not the case today.

Navigable: Newly laid-off workers don’t have the technologies and tools they need for easy career navigation—ways to surface their talents and assess their skill gaps.

Supportive: Job seekers also need access to human advisers who can coach them and help them access wraparound support services.

By targeted, I mean that learners are seeking more precise and targeted educational pathways that clearly have some signaling power to their future employer.

Or they may seek learning experiences that are integrated, or hands-on and embedded in the flow of work, so that they can continue earning a living while building new skills.

And finally, we need to move away from degree requirements to a fairer and more transparent skills-based hiring environment, where more job seekers can demonstrate that they have what it takes to do the work ahead.

Duncan: As you point out, many companies have historically preferred to buy talent rather than build it among their existing employees. What impact do you expect the evolving labor market to have on that mindset?

Weise: In August 2019, the Business Roundtable produced a surprising statement redefining the purpose of a corporation as benefiting all stakeholders, including customers, employees, suppliers, and communities—not just shareholders. One part reads: “Investing in our employees. This starts with compensating them fairly and providing important benefits. It also includes supporting them through training and education that help develop new skills for a rapidly changing world.” Now, this broad statement doesn’t mean anything unless the signatories turn these words into action.

I think the onus will be on our future leaders to reimagine on-the-job training and offer more hands-on opportunities in the flow of work that empower their workers to acquire the right skills for new, emerging, and better jobs. By investing in their people and preparing them for the work ahead through continuous learning pathways and reskilling and upskilling opportunities, companies will not only demonstrate goodwill, but they will also ultimately serve corporate self-interest and survival.

Imagine the collective impact if employers were to invest a fraction of the $200 billion they spend annually on talent middlemen and instead invest those funds directly into their incumbent workforce. The leaders that begin “building” their existing talent—instead of always “buying” talent—will win the talent wars of the future and reap dividends on their intermediate- and long-term competitiveness.

Duncan: That certainly seems reasonable. So why are more companies following that approach?

Weise: Time is the biggest barrier—the biggest point of friction when it comes to companies allocating time for learning new skills.

Organizations often do not carve out time for reskilling or upskilling, and most workers do not have “time off” to develop new skills on their own. Employers must therefore embed more learning opportunities that are integrated into workdays—learning experiences that are hands-on, experiential, work-based, contextualized in the real-world and tied to clear performance outcomes. No skills-building initiative will work unless we solve for this limiting factor of time.

This Article Source is From : https://www.forbes.com/sites/rodgerdeanduncan/2021/02/09/how-can-you-prepare-for-a-work-future-you-cant-even-see/?sh=45b9ea6738eb

#career #future of work #machines in the future #artificial intelligence #digital #skills #goal #leaders #reskilling #opportunities

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cutsliceddiced · 5 years ago

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New top story from Time: I Feared My Enslaved Ancestors Had Been Dishonored in Death—But the African Burial Ground in New York City Tells a Different Story

The oral history of my family says that President James Madison, a Founding Father of our nation, was also a Founding Father of my African American family. In 1992, when I realized I knew a lot about how the president had lived his life but little about how his slaves had lived theirs, I took my first trip to Montpelier, Madison’s former Virginia plantation. I toured the mansion, the Madison family cemetery, and an excavated kitchen where it is likely one my enslaved ancestors once worked. But I elected not to see the slave cemetery. I was afraid my forebears had in death, as in life, been dishonored.

“Next time,” I promised myself.

It was just a few months later that I heard an NPR report about the recently discovered African Burial Ground in New York City. As the city and the nation processed that news, I began to follow and research the story—discovering that, while slave owners abolished many African customs, the sense of community as extended family, the importance of oral history, and the beliefs that guided the enslaved as they buried their deceased held strong.

In October 1991, the excavation crew for a new $275 million federal building on lower Broadway unearthed more than 400 human skeletons. These bones turned out to be the remains of a small fraction of the slaves who had built much of the city’s infrastructure, including the wall that once defined Wall Street. A review of 17th- and 18th-century land surveys revealed the site had been part of a 6.6-acre cemetery where the bodies of more than 15,000 black people rested, making it the oldest and largest known colonial burial site for Africans in North America.

Until the excavation, few New Yorkers, and even fewer visitors, knew that from 1711 to 1762, just two streets away from the current New York Stock Exchange, there had been an open-air market where African men, women and children were bought and sold. This busy and profitable market, second only to another in Charleston, S.C., helped spawn American capitalism and became pivotal to how money flowed throughout the world.

For varying periods throughout colonial history, every American colony had slaves. Stolen Africans were brought not only to grow cotton, sugar and tobacco in the South, but also to perform much of the hard labor needed to build towns, cities and railways. Raw crops produced in the South were transported to the North, or to Europe, to be turned into finished products, the sale of which was used to fund more trips to Africa for the capture and purchase of more slaves who were then trafficked to America to further its economic growth. This triangular trade route was astonishingly lucrative.

Through its burgeoning shipping businesses, insurance companies, sugar refiners and clothing manufacturers and retailers—supported by its equally burgeoning banking, accounting and investment firms—New York garnered some 40% of all the cotton revenue generated in the American colonies. And by investing in Southern plantations and military suppliers, New York City became so rich through the “peculiar institution” that in January 1861, on the eve of the Civil War, Mayor Fernando Wood proposed secession from the Union rather than lose cotton trade with the South.

In 1697, three centuries before the 1991 excavation, Trinity Church, located a few blocks away, banned the burial of “Negro’s” [sic] in its graveyard, thereby forcing the enslaved to find another place to inter their deceased. It was upon this second site, “the African Burial Ground,” the new federal building was to be constructed. When planning the structure, the United States General Services Administration assumed time and unrelenting massive urban development since the burial ground’s closure in 1794 had destroyed the human remains.

Early in 1992, when the city’s African American community learned of the discovery and the damage to skeletal remains caused by the excavation, the group mobilized and chose Trinity Church as the venue for a televised meeting. Among other community leaders who spoke, Rev. Herbert Daughtry reminded America: “Had it not been for the bodies and the bone, the body and the labor of those people who rest yonder—our ancestors—there would not have been a United States of America…”

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Newspapers and television newscasts around the globe reported on the night vigils, the organized rallies, the spontaneous demonstrations, and the petitions and meetings. Many of the nation’s black citizens were enraged that their government would construct a building on top of their ancestors’ final resting place. Spiritual leaders of many faiths came to the sacred site, and the cause became a cry for human rights worldwide.

In October 1992, Congress passed a resolution to alter the building’s design in order to preserve the archeological site. The legislature then appropriated three million dollars for a museum and research center. That year, the African Burial Ground was added to the National Register of Historic Places, and in April 1993, it became a National Historic Landmark.

Yielding to indefatigable protests, the House Subcommittee on Public Works agreed to transfer the 419 exhumed skeletons to Howard University in Washington, D.C. Under the direction of Michael Blakey, an African American physical anthropologist, the bones were painstakingly labeled, catalogued and packaged. In November 1993, at a nighttime ceremony at the burial site, with hundreds of participants and on lookers, Blakey, wearing traditional formal African attire, accepted a small box. Wrapped in African fabric, it contained the last of the remains to be transferred.

At Howard’s Montague Cobb Biological Anthropology Laboratory, Blakey and his team analyzed the remains to learn the nature and extent of the brutality suffered by the black people who had been brought to New York from Angola, the Congo and the Caribbean. For nearly ten years, until the corpses were ceremonially reinterred in the Burial Ground, the researchers studied the bones, teeth and hair of the buried individuals and discovered almost half had been less than 12 years old when they died and more than half of these children had not reached their second birthdays. The children, like the adults, had suffered from malnutrition, injury, infectious disease, lead poisoning and overwork.

The remains, collected from a subterranean refuge under Wall Street, also told another story. Denied in life the chance to gain power, influence and dignity, the deceased were found meticulously swaddled in winding sheets secured with shroud pins and lying supine in individual coffins. Among the bones were many artifacts, including coins, buttons, bracelets, cufflinks and beads, to be used in the next world. A boy under the age of 5 lay silent with a clamshell above his left collarbone. In another photograph, a woman lay with her newborn infant nestled in the bend of her elbow.

In October 2007, the African Burial Ground was officially dedicated as a National Monument. Eight years later, in July 2015, the city itself made an effort to recognize the existence of its slaves and their descendants. New Yorkers and visitors walking along Wall Street might notice a free-standing 16-by-24-inch plaque installed a short walk away from where the 18th-century slave market once stood. The imagery of the city’s, and the nation’s, vast and powerful financial center sitting on top of the burial sites of its enslaved inhabitants projects an ironic view of the persistent racial inequalities in wealth and legal rights. The plaque will not make visible the invisible black people who, through their forced labor and self-sacrifice, carried New York City and the whole of America to prosperity and world eminence.

After learning about the burial practices of New York City’s enslaved people, I returned to Montpelier. As I walked along the dirt road that curved down from the mansion, I didn’t know what to expect. So, when I reached the slave cemetery, the bright blue periwinkles covering the floor of a small woods took me by surprise. I stepped in, and the ground, blanketed with fallen leaves and cradling the hidden remains, was soft underfoot. Crude quartz headstones had been placed on the west end of the graves, allowing, according to ancient West African beliefs, the souls resting below to follow the sun as it rose on the morning of life beyond death.

Standing in a kingdom of many trees, I felt one of them call to me. A stone the color of raw flesh, its uneven surface shiny and smooth, nestled at the base. I envisioned one of my enslaved ancestors lying there, wrapped in white muslin secured with a shroud pin. I knelt down and placed my hand on the rock, assured my ancestor had been buried with dignity.

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Bettye Kearse is the author of The Other Madisons: The Lost History of a President’s Black Family, available now from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

via https://cutslicedanddiced.wordpress.com/2018/01/24/how-to-prevent-food-from-going-to-waste

#Time #top stories #IFTTT #news

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hrhduchessoflancaster · 7 years ago

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Chapter Sixty-Four: New Title, New Life

A/N: Thank you for reading and commenting! It means the world to me :) xx Bea Disclaimer: see Prologue __________________________________________________________________

Their journey back to England was bittersweet to say the least. Harry and Elle begrudgingly left the comfort, bliss and seclusion of their private villa in Italy, their little cocoon away from prying eyes, to return to the busy and thrilling life of British society, now as Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Their first event as newlyweds was the National Thanksgiving in honour of the Queen, at St. Paul’s Cathedral, which was followed by one of the most awaited and watched events of June: Trooping the Colour, celebrating that year, the 90th birthday of their sovereign, Queen Elizabeth.

Leo was there to pick them up from the airport, along with Ronald. Now the senior staff member, he’d control most of Harry and Elle’s engagements together. Their own agendas would be handled separately by their personal secretaries, as would their wardrobe, speeches, letter’s they’d receive, and so forth.

“ Welcome back, Your Royal Highnesses.”, said Ronald smiling. “ I trust you had a good trip?”, he continued, noticing their beaming smiles.

“ We did, and thank you, Ronald.”, replied Harry. Nodding, the secretary guided them to the black Land Rover, while Leo climbed into the driver’s seat, having John and Alfred in the following car, behind them.

Soon, Elle could see the skyline of the city and her heart started thumping. As they reached High Kensington Street, Elle became anxious, for their home was just around the corner. In the two weeks they had spent in Italy, the renovations on apartment 1, next to William and Catherine had continued and hopefully, would soon be over.

She was dying to set foot on her new home. For as cosy as Nottingham Cottage was, she longed for more space to have all of her things with her, specially her enormous collection of books, which Harry had said was more than enough to supply the entire household and residents of the palace. Elle however insisted that she still didn’t have enough of them.

************

Will, Kate, George, Charlotte, Lupo and Sir Lancelot were waiting for them on the courtyard inside Kensington Palace when they arrived. As they emerged from the SUV, Sir Lancelot bolted to their owners and showered them with kisses, much to George and Charlotte’s amusement, who giggled loudly. “ Yes, I’ve missed you too you fluffy ball of fur.”, said Harry, snatching its ears.

The older couple then stepped forward and embraced them. Kate and Elle shared a secret smile while the brothers laughed and whispered to each other, smirking. Rolling their eyes, the royal wives chuckled. “ Come on, let’s get you inside. I want to know everything.”, said Kate grinning.Elle nodded her head and, before going in, she kneeled down and gave both expectant children a kiss on the cheek. Charlotte, now properly walking by herself, demanded to be taken into her new aunt’s arms, and Elle gladly carried the little girl inside, while Harry hold onto George’s hand.

“ So, tell me all about it. Where did you go?”, asked Kate as they entered the spacious living room of apartment 1A. The children where promptly urged to play on the floor at a safe distance from the adults while they talked.

“ We went to Como, in Italy. Harry completely outdid himself.”, said Elle smiling. Harry smirked and received a clap on the back from his older brother.

“ Really? How so, dear sister?”, asked William, a glint of mischief in his eyes.

“ Well, we stayed at this private villa by the banks of Lake Como. It was all very quiet and secluded. No one bothered us or payed any attention to what we were doing. We drove through the beautiful countryside, drank wine, bathed in the glorious mediterranean sun, visited the town’s historical sites of course, ate marvelous food… it was very romantic, very thoughtful.”, said Elle, sighing.

“ Well, I’m impressed, Harry. I didn’t think you had in you to be as romantic as your older brother.”, joked William.

“ It sounds wonderful, Elle.”, commented Kate smiling. “ And when can we expect nieces and nephews?”, William asked smirking. Elle and Harry looked at each other and smiled, Harry caressing her arm.

“ Hopefully, very soon.”, replied Elle.

“ We’re trying but there’s no certainty yet.”, continued Harry. Kate and Will looked a little startled by this confession but smiled nonetheless.

“ I figured you were going to try soon enough. You’ve always wanted to be a dad.”, said William. “ But let me tell you, it is as wonderful as it is tiring.”, he continued chuckling, and Kate did the same nodding her head.

“ You better prepare yourselves. If your future child is as adventurous and boisterous as George, you’ll have your hands full!”, said Kate.

************ After a long and joyful afternoon with the Cambridges, Harry and Elle finally retired to their own home with Sir Lancelot. Their little cottage was a sight for sore eyes for her, and Elle leaped to the front door, ready to step into it. But before she could put her right foot inside, Harry picked her up in one swift motion into his arms.

“ Harry! What in heavens name are you doing?”, she asked amidst giggles.

“ Why, carrying you inside our home, dear wife. Isn’t it the custom?”, stated Harry smiling. Elle giggled once more and together, they entered their home, smiling at the little pieces of decoration here and there that showed their personality traits: from the pictures of Harry and his Walking with the Wounded team to Elle’s books, Nottingham Cottage reflected them as a couple.

New pictures were soon to be added to the wooded shelves as the official photographer, Hugh Burnand was to release their wedding photos. From the ones that would be on display for the public to see and would, eventually, be turned into post cards and so on, to the more private, more sentimental pictures, like the ones they took dancing their first dance together, or the ones of them cutting their cake and being silly with each other.

“ Home sweet home, right Sir Lancelot?”, said Elle, kneeling on the floor to scratch the dog’s ears, who wiggled his tail in delight.

“ I’ll take that as a yes.”, she continued, chuckling. “ Gosh, I’m beat. I think I’ll have a hot shower than sleep until tomorrow.”, said Elle as she walked towards their bedroom, with her husband following closely behind.

“ Can I join you, wife?”, asked Harry mischievously as she passed him through the bathroom door. Elle chuckled and shrugged her shoulders, waiting for his reply. Stripping down, she turned on the faucet and entered the steamy shower, closing her eyes as the water fell into her tired body. Soon, she felt a pair of cold hands sneaking around her waist.

“ Your hands are cold!”, she said out loud, turning to face her smirking husband. Shaking her head, she encircled her arms around his waist and put her head on his chest, as he hugged her; the water now falling on them both.

“ I love you so very much, Harry. I hope you know that.”, she whispered. Picking up her chin with his hand, Harry smiled and looked her deeply in the eyes.

“ Of course I do. I’ve never doubted it. Not once, since we confessed it to each other.”, he replied, caressing her cheek, making her smile.

“ And you, my dearest and most beloved wife, are my whole world. I love you to the end of the universe, time and space.”, he continued, placing a gentle kiss on her wet lips.

************

The following morning was back to work for Harry and Elle. The new Duke and Duchess of Sussex had their hands full with events for the coming months, including a visit to their duchy and their first trip overseas. It wouldn’t be exactly a Royal Tour yet but the couple would be spending a week in the United States for the 2016 Invictus Games in Orlando, Florida. They had less than a fortnight until they crossed the pond to another continent and their office was buzzing with all the preparation for it.

Lisa and Elle had spent a good part of their morning accessing all of the itinerary for their Invictus Games trip, as well as the details for the more imminent events such as the Thanksgiving Service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trooping the Color and the Patron’s lunch. Apart from the protocols to be followed and all the pomp and circumstance that now involved Elle, as she stepped into the role of a member of the Royal Family, there were more practical details such as her outfits. From now on, all of her choices would have to be checked and double checked - from the designer, to cut and colour of the dress or suit she’s be wearing. Elle knew this would happen but she hopped for a little more independence in that department.

“ Your style and preferences will be kept, Your Royal Highness. We’ll just have to make a few adjustments, specially regarding the length of your dresses and skirts. It’s per Her Majesty’s suggestion.”, said Lisa, emphatically. Elle sighed but nodded her head, understandably. Well, at least I’ll be able to choose something, she thought.

Later that day, after a long morning with Lisa, discussing all of her own engagements, Elle and Harry sat with Ronald, their chief secretary and the staff, about their joint events. “ As previously announced, the Invictus Games will take place in Orlando, Florida this year and both Her Majesty, the Prince of Wales and Their Royal Highness believe it to be the perfect right-foot forward into their marriage. This will not be a Royal Tour as of yet, but a visit, which will showcase not only the best of our Armed Forces but as well, as Their Royal Highnesses public figures.”, said Ronald to the staff.

“ We will keep it simple, since it’s a week’s length competition. No white-tie nor cerimonial events are planned so there’s no need to concern yourselves with it. We shall begin preparations tomorrow. That’s all”, he finished and the staff was dismissed.

“ He’s right to the point, isn’t he?”, whispered Elle to Harry, making him stifle a chuckle. They shared a smile but quickly recovered themselves when the man in case turned to face the royal couple.

“ I believe that was all for today, Your Royal Highnesses.”, said Ronald, smiling.

“ I believe you’re right, Ronald. Excellent work, as always.”, said Elle, congratulating the man who bowed his head.

“ My pleasure and my goal is to serve you both with the utmost efficiency, ma’am.”, replied Ronald seriously.

“ And you do so marvelously.”, said Harry, trying to contain his laughter. Thinking himself the subject of the highest of praises, Ronald puffed his chest and bowed his head once again, thanking the couple and leaving the room. Once he was out of the door, Harry and Elle laughed their heads off, letting it all out.

“ Thank God we still have Daniel and Lisa as our private secretaries. Otherwise we’d have been doomed to a life of boredom…”, commented Harry and Elle nodded her head agreeing.

“ I hope he losses up a bit. Let’s give him time. He doesn’t quite know us yet.”, said Elle. Walking towards an arm chair, Harry sat and pulled Elle into his lap, caressing her leg, gently.

“ So, what are your plans for this afternoon, dearest wife?”, he asked her.

“ Work, dear husband. Lisa and I still have a few things to work through for the next few events. Then, tea with my parents later on.”, she said and he nodded his head.

“ I haven’t seen them since we came back. You can join me, if you want to.”, she told him and he gave her a gentle smile.

“ Yeah… that will be nice. Do you know if Ed will be there too?”, he asked her.

“ I don't know, but I guess so. Why don’t you text him? You know how my brother can be… always disappearing on us.”, commented Elle.

************

Tea with Elle’s parents and her brother, as it turns out he was indeed at home for the time being, was enjoyable as ever. Victoria inquired about their honeymoon and their future plans; Rupert asked the couple about their work and charities Elle would be taking on and Ed, ever the family clown, pegged them about his future nieces and nephews.

“ You know there’s not a very likely chance I’ll ever get married, mate. Let alone have children.”, said Edward to Harry, making the later chuckle.

“ It’s true! And I’ve made my peace with it. I’m past thirty, single and with no perspective of settling down in the near future. You, on the other hand, has married my wonderful, smart and beautiful baby sister. So you, as my best friend and brother-in-law, must fulfill any parenting desires I might have by giving me little Harrys and Elles to spoil.”, continued Edward.

“ Oh Ed, surely you haven’t given up hope yet?”, said Elle to her brother.

“ I’m not sure I’m cut out to be husband material, dear sister.”, replied Edward.

“ Of course you are. The right woman just hasn’t found you yet. Because God knows you’re terrible at people skills.”, joked Harry. ************

Elle had her first taste of a Royal life on June 11th, as she stepped out of the car and into the steps of St. Paul’s Cathedral for the National Thanksgiving Service in honour of Her Majesty’s 90th birthday. Dressed in a pale yellow dress coat with a matching fascinator and her hair down, she took Harry’s hand, as they were met by flashed and cheers from the public. She gave them a small wave and a smile and ascended the staircase, meeting Charles, Camilla, William and Catherine at the top.

“ Someone’s very popular today.”, commented William, giving Elle a cheeky smile.

“ Oh stop it! You’ll make me even more nervous than I already am!”, she replied and the group chuckled.

“ You’re doing very well so far, my dear.” said Camilla, encouraging.

“ Let’s hope I don’t trip or do something stupid in front of everyone.”, said Elle and Harry shook his head.

“ That’s impossible. My wonderful wife would never do something like that. You’re perfect.”, he said, kissing her cheek lovingly, then locking gaze with her and smiling.

“ Ah… marital bliss.”, said Charles smiling kindly at the couple who kept on gazing into each other’s eyes.

“ Come on love birds, granny is almost ready to make her entrance.”, said William braking their loving stare. Side by side, Harry and Elle walked the length of St. Paul’s cathedral along with other royals for Elle’s first duty as an official member of the British Royal Family.

After the service, a luncheon was conducted at Buckingham Palace for representatives of the Queen’s many charities and patronages, as well as foreign dignitaries and politicians. In a much more relax mood, Elle enjoyed talking to new people and a few familiar faces, such as that of Christopher Simmons, the Prime Minister.

“ It’s good to see you again, Your Royal Highness.”, he said greeting her with a hand shake. “ I believe you remember my wife, Pamela.”, he continued as the women exchanged a smile.

“ I do. How are you both?”, Elle asked politely. “ We’re doing very well, Your Royal Highness. And congratulations once again on your nuptials.”, said Pamela. Elle smiled and thanked the woman. Soon, the trio was engrossed in a lively conversation, branching out many different subjects.

“ And, if you don’t mind me asking, how is marriage life been treating you, ma’am?”, asked the Prime Minister.

“ Incredibly well. Though I must say, I still feel a little weird being called Your Royal Highness all the time.”, she joked and they laughed.

“ I’m very glad to hear it. And I do hope to see great things from you in the near future, ma’am.”, said Mr. Simmons.

“ We all do.”, emphasized Pamela. “ It’s plain to see that you and His Royal Highness have the potential to do so.”, the older woman continued. Great, Elle thought, as if we don’t already have enough on our shoulders to begin with. But hey, no pressure. She gave them a nervous laugh and excused herself in search for Harry. She found him near a corner, glancing at her direction. Sighing, she approached him.

“ Good conversation with our dear Prime Minister?”, he asked her.

“ It was… up until five minutes ago when he and his wife began with all the ‘we expect great things from you and your husband’ talk.”, she said to him. Harry shook his head and sighed.

“ Even though we’re married and got what they wanted, they’ll never let us out of the hook, will they?”, she asked him, rhetorically.

“ I’m afraid not, my love.”, Harry replied and Elle sighed once again. “ Still, as much as we will have to make a few compromises along the way to please the government, this is our life and we’ll live it according to our wishes. Parliament and their rules be dammed if they so much as meddle with a single thing in our lives that outsteps what they ought to.”, said Harry, making Elle chuckle and smile at him.

************

Trooping the Colour was every bit and more what Elle had imagined. Having taking part in the festivities for a few years, she knew the didst of it all, but there was something about riding in a carriage and standing in the balcony at Buckingham Palace, just a few weeks after being there for the first time, that made it all feel surreal to her. Dressed in a soft pink dress coat, Elle stood beside her husband as the flypast went by and the anthem was played. George, who stood closest to her waved at the planes, while baby Charlotte - in her mother’s arms - gave a small wave to the crowds, surely winning everyone’s hearts.

Back at Kensington Palace, still at Nottingham Cottage since the renovations on apartment 1 had yet another two weeks to go before they could finally move into it, Harry and Elle discarded their fancy clothes and put on some track trousers, big light jumpers, trainers and baseball caps; it was past the time they took a walk in the park. Putting Sir Lancelot on his leash, they headed to Kensington Gardens, which was pretty deserted for this time of the year, for some quality time together.

“ You know, I can't remember the last time we’ve been to the park together.”, said Elle. Turning his head to face his wife, Harry sighed and nodded his head.

“ Neither can I. It feels nice to be out here, though, doesn’t it?”, he replied. “ Besides, I think Sir Lancelot is having the time of his life.”, he continued and the pair glanced at the small Jack Russell, who, as if sensing their masters’ gaze on him, wiggled his tail in joy, making the couple laugh and smile. They walked a few kilometers from the palace before deciding on setting the dog, while they sat together on the grass.

The puppy gladly ran through the green field, dashing from side to side, while the pair watched, snuggled together in each other’s arms. From afar, Harry and Elle saw a couple with two children, walking hand in hand, and Elle smiled from the corner of her mouth at the scene. Catching her gesture, Harry took hold of her left hand, gently toying with her engagement ring and wedding band, tracing the edges with his thumb.

“ Just imagine, my love…”, he began. “… in a couple of years, that family will be us.”, and gave her a grin. Elle smiled back and laid her head on his shoulder, with Harry placing his on top of hers, watching Sir Lancelot chase a few pigeons.

“ We should know in a few weeks how soon we’ll… you know… if I am…”, said Elle sighing. Harry lifted his head and they looked at each other. “ Really?”, he asked, almost whispering; a gleam of hope in his eyes. “ Really.”, replied Elle, happy but unsure, giving him a small smile. “ But I’m not getting my hopes up just yet. Remember what Georgiana told me. I don’t want to give you false hope…”, said Elle, squeezing his hand.

“ I know, my love. And, whatever happens, we’ll face together.”, said Harry, smiling from the corner of his mouth.

************

And as Elle had predicted, there was no baby. But they’d keep trying.

The following week, preparations began at full speed for their first official trip overseas as a married couple: the Invictus Games in Orlando, USA. Their staff had countless meetings with their secretaries and they, with Harry and Elle, to discuss the minute details for their week-long trip to the USA.

Elle was beyond excited to be going to Florida, specially since she’s never been there before. Much to her child-self demise, her parents hadn’t take neither her nor her brother to Disney World; the only place Disney related they’ve ever been to was EuroDisney in Paris.

“ But we will have time to visit, at least two of the parks, right?”, Elle asked for the nth time. Her husband chuckled and nodded his head.

“ Yes, Elle.”, he replied still chuckling. “ We will visit at least three of the many themed parks and yes… Harry Potter World or whatever it is, is included.”, he continued and she rolled her eyes at him.

“ You keep making fun of me only because you’ve already been there.”, she complained, pouting her lips. Harry chuckled once again and moved to her side, kissing her cheek.

“ Come wife, what do you say about some quality time with your dear husband and lovely dinner?, asked Harry, giving her his signature smirk. Shaking her head, Elle smiled and gave him a nod and a quick peck on the lips before joining their hands together and leaving the office towards their little cottage.  ************

On the week before their trip, Elle had a get together with all her friends at Nottingham Cottage. Rick, Mary and little Rose were there, as were Valerie, Melissa and Trevor. She had prepared a lemon drizzle cake and Eton mess, along with a refreshing lemonade and strawberry juice.

“ Oh my goodness, when did she get so big!”, exclaimed Elle, taking hold of little Rose who was now almost an year old.

“ It’s incredible how fast they grow.”, replied Rick smiling.

“ Rosie is walking now practically walking and starting to babble a few sounds. I can hardly believe it!”, Mary confessed it. As they sat together, with Elle still doting on her goddaughter, they chatted away about work and family but there was no escaping from the ultimate matter.

“ So, how was the honeymoon?”, Valerie asked and everyone’s heads turned to face Elle.

“ Simply wonderful.”, Elle replied with a nostalgic smile. “ We went to Italy, on Lake di Como near Milan and stayed on a private villa for a week. It was… so peaceful… just us two… it was the best of times.”, she continued and Valerie sighed.

“ Sounds incredible. I want a husband to dote on me…”, said Valerie and everyone laughed.

“ But in all seriousness Elle…”, began Melissa. “ How are you? Truly? With all of this new life, new title and all the obligations, the pomp and ceremony that comes with it?”, she asked.

“ Well… it’s been good so far. I’ve adjusted to my role fairly well and I think I’ll progressively take on more things to do as the time goes by. The staff is great, my private secretary is phenomenal and I have Harry’s support in everything. He’s my partner, my friend, my… everything. It’s easy to adjust when everything falls into place.”, Elle replied and another round of awns could be heard.

“ You’re both so perfect together! Don’t tell your brother in law, but I prefer you and Harry as the Royal Power Couple.”, said Trevor and everyone laughed. “ Seriously! You are more down to earth, more relatable to the public… it’s easy to like you. They already love you.”, he continued.

“ I’m just being myself, as is Harry. I think the people see us more easy-going because we are not under the same pressure William and Catherine are. They are the future monarchs not us.”, said Elle and they nodded their heads. It was true. Without the weight of being the direct heir of the state, the weight of being the next king and queen - even if the role is figurative - brought easiness to Elle’s life. She couldn’t even begin to imagine what Kate must go through everyday. Thank God that will never happen to me., thought Elle sighing in relief.

#FATES INTERTWINED #royalfanficcollection #royalfanficcentral #phff #prince harry fanfic #prince harry fanfiction #prince harry

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shelleyseale · 5 years ago

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Hit List: Top Things to do in Door County, Wisconsin

There are few places in the Midwest more delightful than Door County, in the upper peninsula of Wisconsin. With 300 miles of shoreline, you can watch a sunrise and a sunset over the water without leaving the county.

You can also stroll through acres of orchards, explore art galleries, devour cherry pie, sip on local wines and brews, splash in the lake or paddle along the bluffs, stroll through five state parks, visit 19 unique communities and tour 11 historic lighthouses. Here are my Top Picks of Things to Do in Door County!

Take a Boat Ride

You're at the lake — so you gotta get on the lake! Board a cruise along Lake Michigan or Green Bay, and you may even be able to see some of the shipwrecks from the boat (supposedly there are some 400 shipwrecks in these waters!). You can also take the Washington Island Ferry to Washington Island from the mainland, crossing "Death's Door" as you do so. The French bestowed that name on the treacherous waters that sent so many ships to the bottom. Other great ways to get on the water are to go sailing, rent kayaks or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. Then congratulate yourself on being part of the mere 1% of visitors to Door County who ever get off the mainland! The Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay is the perfect place to learn about the history of the area lighthouses, shipbuilding, shipwrecks and more.

Canal Station N Pierhead Lighthouse & Boat. Photo Credit: DoorCounty.com/Door County Visitor Bureau

Take a Lighthouse Tour

There are 11 lighthouses in Door County, many of which were built in the 1800s, and a semi-annual festival celebrates their history (including tours to some that are rarely open to the public), held in the early summer and fall. The Chambers Island Lighthouse has the most interesting history, in my opinion, while the Cana Island Lighthouse is the most unique. You have to be ferried across the ankle deep water by tractor just to get to the lighthouse! Another worth visiting is the "Bird Cage" - the old Baileys Harbor Lighthouse, with 150-year-old range lights and a new boardwalk that's been built between them.

Enjoy Tastings at Local Wineries and Craft Breweries

There are 8 vineyards and wineries in Door County, and there's even a Wine Trail with maps, festivals and other events. My favorite is Door 44, where husband-and-wife team Steve Johnson and Maria Milano left their legal careers behind to realize their dream of winemaking. If you might be surprised, as I was, to think about wine growing that far north, Steve told me that the climate here between June and October is almost exactly what you find in Bordeaux, France. Harbor Ridge Winery is another enjoyable stop, also run by a husband and wife team.

Winery touring and tasting in Door County, WI Steve Johnson (on the bottom right of the pic above), co-owner of Door 44 with his wife Maria, says that the key to successful winemaking is just to let the grape be the grape. "If you let the grape just do what it wants to do, you'll have a good wine." There are also many local brews and craft master brewers around here, so it's easy to find tours and tastings, as well as great choices for local beers on the menus. And for something different - not wine and not beer - check out Island Orchard Cider. Here they make a variety of ciders from their own 40 acre orchard on Washington Island. My favorite was the pear....mmm, delicious!

Island Orchard Cider

Visit Artisan Cheesemakers

What goes with wine better than cheese? And the state is well-known for its dairy farms and cheeses, so you won't want to miss visiting some of the world's best cheesemakers. Wisconsin is home to every single licensed cheese master - 6- of them to be exact. At Wisconsin Cheese Masters, you can find an exclusive selection where many cheeses are not available anywhere else. Owner Jim Pionkoski has a personal favorite: Marieke Golden, made by Marieke Penterman, whom Jim calls the best cheese maker in the U.S. and maybe even the world. Originally from the Netherlands, Marieke mainly produces gouda cheeses. The Golden is her only non-gouda, and Jim eats it every single day. "It's the only cheese I never get tired of," he says.

Jim Pionkoski of Wisconsin Cheese Masters, sharing his love of cheese. Another don't-miss cheese stop is the Door Artisan Cheese Company, run by Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker Mike Brennenstuhl, who has been making cheese all his life. This "one stop shop" includes a beautiful market, extensive underground cheese caves where the magic happens, and an amazing restaurant, Glacier Ledge. You can take tours to learn how the cheeses are made and see the caves. Mike uses only local dairy farmers, and only buys milk for the process from farms that are certified AHA, meaning they are hormone free and humane.

Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker Mike Brennenstuhl and colleague showing us the cheese caves at Door Artisan. Check out Mike at work and telling the story of Door Artisan Cheese Company:

Stuff Yourself at Incredible Restaurants, from Casual Dining to Chef-Driven Foodie Spots

As mentioned above, the Glacier Ledge restaurant is highly recommended; I had one of my best meals of the trip there. They serve an internationally-inspired tapas style menu that's perfect for tasting and sharing.

A dish at Glacier Ledge restaurant at Door Artisan Cheese

For an opposite end of the spectrum at a long-time Door County institution, seriously DO NOT miss Wilson's Restaurant & Ice Cream! This adorable diner and ice cream parlor has been around since 1906, and it's located in what I personally found the most picturesque and explorable town in Door County - Ephraim. A mini jukebox adorns every table, and the burgers are honestly to die for. But be sure to save room for one of their old-fashioned ice cream treats like shakes, floats and sundaes. And if you're a root beer fan like me, you will love their housemade root beer. Best root beer I've ever had in my life!

Wilson's Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor in Ephraim, Wisconsin For breakfast or a coffee fix, my pick is Skipstone Coffee Roasters in Sister Bay, my second favorite Door County town. Their breakfast sandwiches are hearty, delicious and healthy; and they make all of their flavor syrups in house. It's pet-friendly, and if you're in a hurry for your next adventure they have a quick self-serve bar with a pay station.And no restaurant round-up of the Wisconsin peninsula would be complete without talking about Al's. Maybe you've heard of it or seen pics on Instagram, but Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant is the place with the goats on the roof. Every morning, the goats are led up a ramp to the sod roof of the restaurant, where they graze all day. You can even adore them from the two webcam streams that are affixed up there. Al's has been an icon for nearly 60 years, and it really is an authentic Swedish restaurant. Now, I have to admit I didn't eat there, but from everything I've heard the food is good. I just went for the goats - oh, and I also picked up a few things in the very nice little boutique there. Check it out!

Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant Goats

Experience a Traditional Wisconsin Fish Boil

OK, so technically this could go under the above "Eating out" section. But make no mistake - a fish boil is as Wisconsin as it gets, so much so that the experience definitely deserves its own category! There are numerous places that put on a fish boil, but I recommend Pelletier's. They serve a traditional fish boil every night of the week starting at 5 pm, along with a full menu of other items as well as lunch and breakfast service.

Pelletier's traditional Wisconsin fish boil Owner & Boil Master Matthew Peterson has been doing this for decades, learned from his father before him. The boil consists of freshly caught whitefish from Lake Michigan, cooked outside over the open fire along with corn and potatoes. The tradition comes from the Scandinavian settlers a century ago, and is very much alive and well in Door County. The drama of the "boil over" is pretty cool (advice: don't stand too close to the pot!).

Go Gallery Hopping

Door County is home to an impressive number of galleries and artist studios. It's a great place to discover everything from a small, emerging artists to high-end galleries and accomplished artists who have made a name for themselves. Some of the places I would recommend making a stop would be: Blue Dolphin House, set on four-and-a-half acres of beautiful perennial gardens, in a building that dates back to 1860. Run by Peg & John Lowry, they've been in business for more than 50 years.

Blue Dolphin House shop & studio Deanna Clayton Studios - you'll need to make an appointment or check her website for opening hours. Deanna is an incredibly successful glass artist, using a centuries-old technique called pate de verre. With it, she creates some astonishing sculptures, which have been purchased and commissioned by patrons including many Ritz Carlton hotels around the world.

Artist Deanna Clayton in front of her studio Fine Line Designs Gallery & Sculpture Garden features original paintings, custom wood furnishings, glass, jewelry, ceramics and fiber art more than 90 renowned artists. Stroll the two-acre sculpture garden that showcases sculptures in bronze, stone, metal, ceramic, copper, and stainless steel. Unique, collectible artworks and original gifts are found indoors and out.

Fine Line Designs Gallery If you want more information on the art scene, check out the Door County Visitors guide!

Pick Your Own Cherries

Door County is the cherry capital of the U.S., and you can experience cherry picking yourself at one of the County's pick-your-own cherry orchards. Many families make it a fun tradition every cherry season. Check out the listings of places you can do this, along with many other resources, at Wisconsin Cherry Growers.

Cherry picking in Door County, Wisconsin Have you been to Door County? What are your favorite experiences there? Share in the comments below! Read the full article

#arts #beer #boats #cheese #cider #culture #doorcounty #explore #fishboil #history #lakes #lighthouses #restaurants #travel #USA #wine #Wisconsin

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2019dclmed · 5 years ago

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Rome - Tues., May 28, 2019

Rome - Tuesday, May 28, 2019

It was another early morning with a 5:47am alarm for our 7:15am PA call time. By now we had a routine of getting ready, eating our room service, taking seasick pills, and packing our backpacks. The forecast was only 64, but no rain. I donned a plaid dress & navy sweater, but stashed my Lauren hoodie & footies (for the bus) in my bag! Luckily, neither were used.

As a reminder of our chosen Port Adventure:

Vatican Behind the Scenes and Panoramic Drive (CV105)

10 Hours to 10.5 Hours

It was about an hour drive into the city and we were dropped off just outside the Vatican City wall. We were led down a Groups path (FastPass), went through security scanners, and then awaited our tickets. (The regular line wrapped all the way down one of the walls and around the corner. Again, unless you arrive prior to opening or have a tour like ours booked, the wait to just get in would be excessive!)

Then it was upstairs for our radio guides, but it was to hear our personal guide, not the Vatican Museums audio guide. Our group was led out to the Gardens, a blissful escape from the crowds. (As uttered on the Disney Cruise Line Blog Podcast, when at the Vatican be prepared to “pack your patience and give up your personal space!”)

The Gardens (requiring a special ticket or with a tour) are quite hilly with all sorts of cement, cobblestone, and rock pathways. (I was happy my new Chacos conquered it all!) One in our group had mobility issues and opted out of a significant portion of the tour. We were told about the history and meaning behind many of these sites, refurbishment of a considerable monument, and the building to which retired Pope Benedict has retired. This area also provided beautiful natural, quiet, and unobtrusive views of the back of both the St. Peter's Basilica Dome and Sistine Chapel. The numerous gardeners were out and about to the point it felt a bit Disney-esque. We regularly got out of the way of the golf carts and 4-wheelers (that I wanted to commandeer)!

This is Kara - I’ll just add that the Gardens were very pretty - made even more enjoyable by the fact the weather was absolutely perfect. I especially enjoyed Pope Pius IV’s building from 1550 and its sunbathing turtles.

Too soon we returned to the outside public area of Vatican City. We stopped in front of a set of six signs, each explaining different part of the Sistine Chapel. I had not seen this on my previous visit. It gave much needed context to the famous painting we were about to view, so this is highly recommended.

Kara here: I agree completely that without the explanations of these signs or some real preparation for the Sistine Chapel, you’re not going to really get all that much from the experience.

Next we were back inside to another “skip the line” point, but still had to traverse through the expansive galleries. (One in our party lost contact with one or two of their four girls, which caused a delay. FYI - tour guides are not your babysitters!)

We were informed the ceiling art is simply lat painting, but they appear 3D! Talk about masterful historic art techniques! Note what looks like “tape” across the giant crack!

This brought us to yet another “skip the line” into the Sistine Chapel. We were there for only about 10 minutes and it was lighter in there than I recalled.

Kara: The three galleries we passed through were candelabra, maps, and tapestry. The tapestry where Jesus’s eyes follow you - FREAKY! While I tend to enjoy museums like this a little more than Gayle, the Disney Cruise Line Blog should go one step further and say that if you’re an introvert or you actually expect to be able to look at something and enjoy doing so while in the Vatican, you’ve come with the wrong expectations. The next picture truly captures why while I’m glad to have visited the Vatican, unless I’m enjoying a private audience with the Pope, I have no need to return.

From the Sistine Chapel we exited almost directly into St. Peter’s Basilica, where our guide pointed out the key highlights. (I was personally relieved at this. Last time I did the audio guide, and like Westminster, tried to do the whole thing. Yet, the monuments here are great in number and I easily lost track if I was looking at the right thing!) We finished around 1pm and were directed to meet back in front of St. Peter’s by 2:45pm.

Kara: I tend to love visiting churches. I’d go back in a heartbeat to nearly every other church I’ve ever visited. There was absolutely nothing reverent or inspiring for me about the shear audacity and grandiosity of St. Peters.

Knowing of this free time, I’d prepared for us to grab a bite to eat. Employing my offline map we sought out the nearby “Alice” for pizza. I’d searched for “good pizza near the Vatican” since we didn’t have a ton of time and thought Kara needed to experience “street food”. While waiting for Kara to get the pizza from this walk-up restaurant, a pigeon “poo-ed” on my backpack! Luckily I had supplies to clean it, but these birds were really aggressive in trying to snatch our food. On top of this the pizza was bad. Really bad. (I have no idea how this “restaurant” was highly rated.) So I felt guilt for leading us here.

Kara: The staff was also not pleasant at all. I didn’t think the pizza was really bad, but it definitely was just food - nothing special.

Next we ventured a few more blocks to “Old Bridge Gelateria” for yes - gelato! (After our Alice experience, I was scared!) It was another traditional walk-up establishment directly across from a Vatican wall. Kara ordered mixed berry, strawberry, & lemon; I ordered dark chocolate and strawberry. When I tossed a tip in their jar, the guys Dabbed! LOL! This gelato was YUMMY (if slightly overpriced - but location, you know) & more than made up for the terrible pizza!

Kara: Back when we decided to do this trip, I tried valiantly for about six months to pick up enough Italian to at least understand the basics. I wasn’t confident but I was really pleased at how kind everyone was as I tried out the language and how gentle they were in corrections of pronunciations. Both Luigi the day before and the guys at the gelato place were really nice to patiently let me try Italian. Nothing like my experience in Paris a few years back. Also, a note for a future trip should one ever occur to Rome - there is currently a great little sandwich and pasta shop right next to the this gelato place.

We returned to our meeting point (one of the official gift shops) where Kara picked up a number of items and I purchased needed postcards.

(A bracelet Kara bought me - to match my nails, of course!)

Due to the high tourist area, the streets surrounding the Vatican were full of pickpockets and street vendors pushing everything everywhere. We felt like a full picnic basket (especially with my checkered dress print) sitting on top of an anthill! Our guide finally led us to the Vatican’s “bus parking garage” and even here we endured musicians asking for money.

Sidenote: We invested in our first pairs of Chacos for this trip - wanting a sandal that would support a lot of walking. Since I customized mine in all silver metallic, and “when in Rome”, I took to calling mine...

At 3pm we began our panoramic drive through Rome, some sites I had seen, but not others. We were back on the ship by 5pm. (This port is HUGE and crazy! It must have taken us nearly 10 minutes to get to the ship after entering the port!)

Kara: As this was my first visit to Rome, I was looking forward to the tour part - even though it was just a bus tour. G and I are both watching the CBS show “Blood and Treasure” this summer and the pyramid was featured in it. Gayle is right about how enormous the port was - the last two photos are ones I grabbed as we were driving back into the port.

Back in our stateroom we found some delectable “VIP” cupcakes from our new bestie Zoe.

Tonight’s dinner was back in Lumiere’s with a new international menu (World of Flavor) we’d never experienced. I made no notes about this and only remember not being impressed. I believe my main course was disappointing salmon; the buffet salmon from embarkation day was better.

Tonight Kara ordered some hard cider, which they brought in a bottle. Not a beer bottle, but rather more of a full wine-size bottle. Okkkkk. The process worked the same that they would re-cork it and bring it back for the next night’s dinner.

The Beef Empanada was actually quite tasty!

The ship’s Cheddar Cheese Soup will never compare to Le Cellier’s, but pretzel bread is always appreciated!

The Sundae was also quite good. (I would have gotten the Sacre Torte, but don’t care for apricot.)

Kara’s normal dessert selection.

We completed our post-dinner tendency of getting ice, shower/hair, and ordering Room Service for cookies (& tonight “chocolate cake”, which was actually mousse, so Kara was NOT happy. Are we confusing this with a previous night???) For some reason the ship left 45 minutes late.

The evening show was “Junnk” (similar to “Stomp”). We’d seen it before and due to our busy schedule decided to watch it on the stateroom TV since they show the nighttime stage shows on the in-room TVs. Lesson learned: They apparently only show the Disney original stage shows (pre-taped) on the TVs, so no show for us!

Tonight was Pirate Night. As much as we wanted to embrace this cruise-specific offering and as the only cruise line having fireworks at sea, Pirate Night is a BIG DEAL! Yet with dropping temps, a wet/rainy environment, and notable winds, Mother Nature was prompting us to stay inside. When we saw the party didn’t start until 10:30pm (& knowing the fireworks wouldn’t go off until almost 11pm), we didn’t even try to pretend we were going. Instead we were barely able to stay awake for the fireworks, which we watched from our balcony (something Disney Cruise Line tells you NOT to do for safety). Yes, I broke a Disney rule. EEK! It’s the only one I break (& do so consistently. SHHHH!!!) We also know which side of the ship to reserve our stateroom just for this reason!

Disclaimer: I (Gayle) am a travel agent with Authorized Disney Travel Planner agency - Off to Neverland Travel. Contact me today for a no-obligation quote!

Next up: Florence, Italy!

#2019dclmed

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dzismycity · 6 years ago

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The Misconception of Political Unrest and Safety Issues Is The Reason Behind Algeria’s Decline In The Tourism Sector!

The Grand Mosque of Algiers, Algeria.

There has been a huge decline in the tourism sector in Algeria for many years now, and when asked what is the reason behind so, the number one answer that comes to thought without a doubt; is the security and the political unrest that is within Africa’s largest nation. Which explains why the number of tourists from abroad hasn’t exceeded beyond 3,000+ per year for the last 22 years now. The fear that has driven many potential tourists from exploring this culturally , historically and naturally rich nation is due to the media’s labeling that the country does not pass a day without terrorist attacks and civil conflict!

There is no denial that safety has pushed back the development of the tourism sector in Algeria, which dates back to the 1990’s Civil War, known as the Black decade ( العشرية السوداء ) that has affected the statistics of tourists visiting ever since. It broke out as a result of tension between two political parties; The Front Liberation National (FLN) who pushed to remain in power after Algeria's Independence in 1962, and The Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) wanting to have a say in power and push for Islamization, that it believed was lacking because of the post-colonization affect. Many explosions and massacres of citizens, journalists and governments officials were taking place, and many families were left torn apart. This period of turmoil has been engraved in the archives and news bulletins of the Media, that has managed to brainwash it’s audience that Algeria has been unsafe ever since. Which doesn’t do justice to the tourism sector and the route to development in a country with high potential in achieving the utmost. With the incidents happening down south between the borders of Libya and Mali in 2005, this has added tremendous fuel to a fire that won’t be tamed.

Despite the safety measures that have improved in the country and the security that has strengthened with high regards in the borders between Algeria’s neighbors, the fear is still in the atmosphere and many western countries’ governments, such as the US, UK and Australian discourage their people from traveling to Algeria. Especially to the Sahara Desert “classify[ing] [it] as [a] red zone”. Places such as Timimoun, Tamanrasset, down south are considered as top tier adventure travel destinations that are highly requested, however, many western tourism agencies don’t organize tours there because the “safety of their customers and legal responsibility is their policy”! Not all agencies have the same policy though, they believe that it is vital to hold on to their partnerships with local guides and agencies as they see that “they have nothing to lose or to gain by taking the slightest risk” if these places were to actually be dangerous and a hot spot for terrorists. Therefore, their tours continue to be offered to their potential tourists. Not to forget to mention these states haven’t “historically represented known risks” but the media created imaginary ones to drawback tourists.

However, is the issue of safety the only reason behind the decline of the tourism sector in Algeria tho? The answer is simply no! There are many other factors that have affected this phenomenon. The country is described to be in a “Paradox situation”, as a result of a number of issues that explain this confusing decline despite the country’s exceptional potential.

Obtaining a visa to Algeria is the first obstacle that interested tourists face. All nationalities should apply for a visa, no matter how privileged their passport is. It is known to be the most challenging visa to get, and only after several rejected applications you might get your final approval. Many individuals wish to travel without a travel agency, and this is what may put them on the brink of getting rejected by the immigration bureau too. Unlike traveling with an agency, your visa is secured because of the agreement made by the agency and Immigrations. Because it is a costly and long procedure, it discourages many people wanting to visit Algeria for numerous reasons, whether it be for leisure, work, research etc. and end up choosing other destinations.The availability and condition of infrastructure would be another obstacle in the face of a flourishing tourism sector. Hotel services and housing is inadequate for tourists, especially down the south where the state doesn’t pay much attention in developing projects and sites. This is a huge problem as most destinations that attract travelers are down south in the Sahara Desert of Algeria.

Another issue would be in regards to the Promotion & Campaign aspect. As mentioned earlier there are many travelers wishing to visit Algeria, yet they find it hard to gather enough information about where to visit and what to do, despite the numerous opportunities available. Many sources have stated that they turn to facebook pages that aren’t of high quality to make their research, which may not be reliable most of the time. Public institution sites such as the Ministry of Tourism, is a great credible source to learn all about Algeria and what it offers, however, the dilemma at hand in this situation is that it’s available in only ; Arabic and French, the two accustomed languages to the Algerian people! English, a universal language isn’t included, which may as well throw off many potential tourists! Unlike its neighbors; Morocco and Tunisia , that have information in more than 4 languages! As the Algerian proverb says, “there’s good after every delay (كل عطلة فيها خير) ; and with that being said, the Government; “though slow to react to changes in the tourism markets” have constituted plans and reforms to improve the tourism sector that will boost the Algerian economy and be of great significance to it.

The number of tourists was estimated to be between 2.3 million and 2.7 million per year, more than one million of those are nationals living abroad, who have returned to Algeria to visit family, me being one of those nationals. This number is extremely low and understandable seeing the issues on the surface of this decline, despite the high potential, and the many places to visit with great scenery in Algeria, therefore it has to increase.

Moreover, the establishment of the National Tourism and Development Plan (Schéma Directeur d'Aménagement Touristique, SDAT) in 2008 is paving the way for a bright future for this underrated sector. It’s main aim is “set to become a motor for development, diversifying the economy, attracting foreign direct investment..and stimulating employment…The vision is to transform Algeria into a key destination by 2025. The Plan aims to attract 2.5m tourists by 2015, and 20m by 2025”.

The Government has added to it’s agenda in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization, the aim to draw the attention of foreign investors about the prosperous tourism opportunities in the country, which will bring in many clients from around the globe to the adventure holidays and programs set around Algeria, with high regards to the Sahara Desert. This will strengthen the promotional issue that has affected the tourism sector, as it is a vital concept in the world of business. Not to forget, with the wide access to technology nowadays, the birth of websites and blogs in regards to Tourism in Algeria have acceptably and satisfyingly increased, and social media platforms such as Instagram have played a huge role in informing what Algeria is blessed with, by posting photographs of breathtaking destinations that have received large worldwide recognition in a shocking way.

With the vast amount of travelers expected to visit the country, it is only logical to increase the reception capacity of airports too. Airports in major cities such as Algiers and Oran were set for an expansion, that will strengthen its capacity to receive international carriers from 2.5 million to 3.5 million passengers. Just recently last month, the new Algiers Airport was inaugurated. On the other hand, The Ministry of tourism announced that it is working to expand on hotel services. At the moment, 1,812 hotel infrastructure projects were approved by the ministry, which will result in 240,000 beds in contrast to the current 100,000, and create 99,000 jobs, that will decrease the problem of unemployment, especially among the youth. The greater news is that they are all expected to be up and running by the end of this year! This will benefit the sector in many ways, and most importantly it will lower the prices and diversify the hotel offerings which will increase the competition in the market as it will boost and attract many customers. The tourism sector contributes a tiny 1% of the countries GDP, but with these plans and reforms mentioned above, I am confident that it will be of great significance to the country’s economy as a whole, and Algeria won’t just rely on it’s Natural Resources such as Gas, Oil and Petroleum as a source of income.

Hotel Gourara, Timimoun, Algeria

It is important to be aware that Algeria’s potential in growing in the tourism industry is without a doubt high. The natural beauty, rich culture, fascinating history and warm hospitality offered by this North African country is extraordinary. It’s only a matter of time that Algeria will become increasingly popular international tourist destination.

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kansascityhappenings · 6 years ago

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Buying a dream house in Italy for $1 just got even easier

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What’s stopping you buying one of those homes that Italy keeps selling for less than the price of an espresso?

Maybe it’s the fear of buying something sight-unseen, or anxiety over bureaucratic red tape and labyrinthine regulations?

Well, you might just have run out of excuses.

Two Italian destinations, hoping to revive declining communities by luring new residents with homes priced at a little over a dollar, have launched websites that promise to match buyers with their dream property, relatively fuss-free.

So if you spot a photo of a house you like online, you can apply for one even before jumping on a plane.

“I’ve created a special task force of young volunteers who assist buyers, liaising with convenient construction firms for the restyle,” says Paolo Caruso, mayor of Zungoli, one of the villages offering bargain-rate houses.

“Transparency is key but people must really come see for themselves the beauty of the place, taste the great food and breathe the fresh healthy air.”

Zungoli is a tiny rural village, shaped like a snail, in the Campania region near Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

Cheese grottoes

Set atop a sandstone hill, it’s a maze of caves and zig-zag, circular alleys connected by huge, uneven grass-covered cobblestone steps that wind up to a stunning fortress.

Named one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages in 2015 in a national award, it straddles the Apennine Mountains, equidistant from the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coasts.

Medieval bridges lead to a cluster of blue, pink, green and yellow pastel-colored farm dwellings and dome-shaped aristocratic mansions where just 1,000 people live. Bright flowers adorn street corners and grapevines grow over arches and old olive mills.

Inside multi-layered Byzantine caves once used as storage rooms during the Crusades, teardrop-shaped Caciocavallo cheeses are now hung to season.

Sounds good? Well here’s how you get a slice of the action… and maybe some of that cheese.

Step uno: Head to Zungoli’s official website — www.comunezungoli.it. On the left column, there’s a link titled “Case in vendita a €1.”

You might need Google Translate to help you out at this point, or some rudimentary knowledge of Italian (which would be no bad thing anyway if you’re thinking of living there).

Step due: Click on the link and you’ll see dozens of 50- to 100-square-meter dwellings listed. They’re all in need of some TLC, so you’ll need some imagination.

Step tre: Download the application form for the property you like. At this point you commit to renovating one within three years and must explain the type of project — be it a private house, B&B or artisan shop.

Step quattro: Attach a copy of your ID and forward everything to the mayor’s office by email or mail.

Step cinque: If your plan is approved, Caruso will send you a contract and then it’s up to you to fly over to Italy and close the deal.

The catch: As with all these cheap home deals, buyers must pay a €2,000 security deposit and commit to refurbishing the property.

Work needs to start within a few months. Once it’s complete and the purchase deed is made, the deposit is refunded.

There are tax deductions of up to 85% for any restyling works.

Rustic attractions

Zungoli has a unique setting and a lot to offer — guided trekking and cycling tours regularly explore the wild and pristine landscape.

Once plagued by bandits and criss-crossed by pilgrimage routes and shepherd trails, known as tratturi, the terrain is dotted with Roman coins often filled with ancient coins.

For 6,000 years, nomadic shepherds led their herds across its pastures into neighboring Puglia, a tradition now celebrated in festivals and in rustic local dishes like chiapparelle e bietole — ravioli stuffed with chard.

But it’s not stuck in the past.

“We want to make things easy for new buyers”, says Caruso. “My town has upgraded infrastructure, public LED lights and great Wi-Fi. Piazzas and pavements have just been revamped. Life quality is important.”

Honey paradise

If even that process sounds too complicated, the larger Italian town of Mussomeli, in Sicily, has made it even easier, creating a new multilingual real estate agency to handle its €1 houses deals.

Two new towns in Italy are offering homes for sale at bargain rates. (Photo courtesy Salvatore Catalano/Comune Mussolemi)

Photos of dwellings can be checked via the website www.case1euro.it, which features an interactive map that has detailed information on each building — and it’s all in English.

Many of the abandoned stone farm dwellings are in good shape and need only minimal work.

“Original owners calls us each day to dispose of their old houses,” says heritage councillor Toti Nigrelli. “There are 100 on sale now and potentially another 400 are suitable.

“This project is my life mission but had I dealt with it on my own, I would have gone nuts.”

Honeysuckle and eucalyptus are found across this sweet patch of land. Mussomeli’s name stems from the latin Mons Melis, aka the “Hill of Honey,” and local delicacies include honey-coated guastedde buns and cuddureddi fried milk-soaked doughnuts.

‘Sea of clouds’

The fertile green farmland is dotted with old sulfur mines, sanctuaries, Roman necropolises and traces of primitive settlements.

The town, rising on a 700-meter high hill, has views of the Etna volcano and the Valley of Temples. A local weather phenomenon called the “Sea of Clouds” can be seen from the top.

“Looking down you see the valley covered in a dense blanket of clouds as if the town were suspended mid-air. We want customers to experience all this,” says Nigrelli.

The historic center is divided into districts all of which, he swears, have different climatic features depending on which side of the hill you stand.

Sounds like the ideal place?

Step uno: Email the agency with a list of houses you like and download the documentation, following the instructions. It’s all pretty straightforward.

Step due: You still need to fly over to see exactly what you’re getting, especially since the purchase cannot be done by email or telephone. So you need to fix an appointment and a tour of the houses.

Step tre: The local agents will arrange a meeting with the notary and draw up an agreement under which you must commit to refurbishment within three years or forfeit a €5,000 security deposit.

Interested buyers will be given a guided tour of the town, visiting top sites and tasting the local cuisine. The agency’s staff will assist every step of the way.

The catch: “There’s a €400 fee for such tailored services to be paid only at the end if a €1 house is actually purchased,” says Nigrelli.

Mystical vibe

Anyone taking the private tour will see Mussomeli’s panoramic piazzas, lavish gold-colored Baroque buildings and winding alleys leading to one of Italy’s most breathtaking fortresses, dubbed the Enchanted Castle.

Clinging like a spider on a pointed rock with steep, twisting staircases, the castle is said to conceal Saracen treasure and is haunted by the ghost of a murdered soldier.

It’s not the only eerie presence.

The phantoms of three girls, who were locked up by their jealous and tyrannical father and starved to death, have been heard crying at night. According to storytellers, they were found dead having chewed their own shoes for sustenance.

Actors dressed in medieval clothes often animate the castle while religious parades create a mystical vibe.

One festival, Batticchié, sees folks re-enact Sicilian daily life from the 1940s while enjoying local dishes such as ‘mbriulate — a bread bun stuffed with olives, onions and pork.

Delicious. And not just the food.

from FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports https://fox4kc.com/2019/04/11/buying-a-dream-house-in-italy-for-1-just-got-even-easier/

from Kansas City Happenings https://kansascityhappenings.wordpress.com/2019/04/11/buying-a-dream-house-in-italy-for-1-just-got-even-easier/

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retireearlyandtravel · 6 years ago

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New Post has been published on https://www.retireearlyandtravel.com/ljubljana/

The Best Things to See and Do in Ljubljana Slovenia

Ljubljana is a mid-sized European city with a small town feel and friendliness. If you are looking for a quaint, charming, walkable city that exudes European charm, then you must visit Ljubljana. Ljubljana is the capital and largest city in Slovenia, but unlike other European capitals, Ljubljana does not suffer from over tourism. From the Middle Ages until the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918, Ljubljana was part of the Habsburg Monarchy. After World War II and until 1991, Ljubljana became the capital of the Socialist Republic of Slovenia, part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Therefore, Ljubljana is full of beautiful architecture and history. However, there is so much more to discover in Ljubljana than just history and old buildings. There is also lots of culture and many culinary delights to enjoy.

Most of Ljubljana is discoverable on foot because Ljubljana is compact, pedestrian-friendly and it’s easy to navigate its cobblestone streets. Ljubljana is also a green city. We saw almost no plastic water bottles anywhere. For transportation, the focus is on public transportation and pedestrian and cycling networks. Since the city center is completely pedestrian, the city offers rides on electric-powered vehicles referred to as Kavalirs meaning Gentle Helpers to assist the elderly, people with suitcases, or the mobility-impaired.

Below are some of the best things to see and do in Ljubljana.

Private Tour

The best way to get the most out a visit to Ljubljana is with a private guided tour. Keith and I toured Ljubljana on foot with Barbara from Ride Around Tours. You probably know by now how much we appreciate private tours. Ride Around Tours offers some great packages but also will customize anything for you. The guides at Ride Around Tours love Slovenia and love the environment. They are enthusiastic about sharing the beauty and hidden treasures of their country. Best of all they are friendly; we felt like one our friends showed us around Ljubljana.

We spent 2 days with Ride Around Tours that you can read about in our other blog posts. First, we started our Ljubljana visit with a city tour. It began with a cappuccino al fresco in the heart of Ljubljana. Afterward, we walked the entire city while learning about Ljubljana today and past. Let me tell you the central historic district with its bridges and colorful architecture, riverside cafes, shops and markets, and friendly people is adorable. The different period buildings coupled with the architectural styles in Ljubljana tell the history and stories of those who lived there. These building and shops along with the many outdoor cafes and bistros create such beautiful streetscapes. Barbara with Ride Around Tours really knows Ljubljana and all she has to offer.

Unique Shops

You could spend more than a day visiting the unique shops of Ljubljana. And, speaking of interesting shops, we visited a shop called Dobrote Dolenjske. Dobrote Dolenjske sells locally made food products from in and around Ljubljana, mostly the Dolenjska region. They sell marmalades, honey, cookies, oils, spirits, liqueurs and wines. They make all of their products with care for the environment as a top priority. Tasting local culinary treats is a great way to experience a new place.

Something very interesting that they sell is a unique brandy made by local monks with a whole pear inside the bottle. The bottle is placed over a pear as soon as the blossoming has finished. The pear then grows inside the bottle. Once the fruit ripens inside the bottle, they pick it along with the bottle and clean it. Then they pour organic pear brandy that is distilled four times into the bottle resulting in a fruity, warm and aromatic brandy. In this shop, we also tasted dried pears, a local cheese, honey liquor, and cookies. Everything was fabulous.

They also sell some local crafts such as hand-knitted dolls, stained glass products, and jewelry. This is a great shop if you are looking for real Slovenian experience, gifts or just something delicious to sample and take back home. Best of all they are open seven days a week.

Small Bites

Around late afternoon, we stopped for a glass of wine and ordered a couple of small bites at Gostilna Pri Kolovratu. Gostilna Pri Kolovratu is a café in the heart of Ljubljana. The restaurant offers traditional Ljubljana food since its opening in 1836. Their food includes slow-cooked dishes from the first Slovenian cookbook published in 1799. We paired our bites with a great Malvazija wine. Our waiter explained that Malvazija is a fabulous local white wine. The food and wine were great but eating on the street in Ljubljana while people watching made it perfect!

Preseren Square the Main Gathering Place of Ljubljana

Our guide told us that as long as she can remember Ljubljana’s main gathering place has been Preseren Square. The square named for the 19th-century poet France Preseren whose work Zdravljica (A Toast) became Slovenia’s national anthem. There is a statue of him next to the Central Pharmacy. But what will probably fist grab your attention when you arrive at the square is the Baroque style, Franciscan Church Of The Annunciation. The pastel reddish color is symbolic of the Franciscan order.

Preseren Square is part of the old town’s pedestrian zone and its where festivals, Ljubljana carnival, concerts, sports, and even protests take place. The square formed after the city walls were pulled down in the middle of the 19th century. The first decade of the 20th century saw Art Nouveau architectural gems appear.

Robba Fountain

The Robba Fountain sits in front of the Town Hall and is a symbol of Ljubljana. This 1751 fountain named for its creator, Italian Baroque sculptor Francesco Robba is lovely. Incorporating inspiration from the grand fountains of Rome, the fountain features three male figures with jugs. The men are thought to be the three river gods, supposedly representing the Krka, Ljubljanica and Sava rivers. Steps that lead up to the fountain represent the Carniolan Mountains. These mountains, which were part of Carniola, are a historical region that comprises parts of present-day Slovenia. Today the monument you see standing in Mestni square is a replica; the original is inside the lobby of the National Gallery of Slovenia to protect it from the elements and preserve it for eternity.

Tivoli Park

With its beautiful gardens, shaded woods and tranquil walkways, you won’t want to miss visiting Tivoli Park. There is much to see and do in the park all year round. This magnificent park is the city’s most popular green space. Established as a park in 1813 this 5 square kilometer park is an easy walk from the city center. There are many walking and cycling trails, a mini-golf course and a small botanical garden with a glasshouse in the park,. The glasshouse displays many tropical plants, such as pineapple, black pepper, coffee, and orchids. Also on display are bromeliads, some of which have exceptionally attractive flowers. We enjoyed walking the park, but you can also enjoy the park by bike. Bicycles are available for rent at various places throughout the park during the summer.

The Romantic Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana is picturesque, fairy-tale like and romantic all at once and much of that is due to the 16th-century Ljubljana Castle that overlooks the city. The castle’s Outlook Tower and ramparts offer spectacular views of the city. The castle houses a museum exhibition on 200,000 years of Slovenian history and a puppet museum. We had no idea that Slovenia is a country with a rich tradition of puppeteering. The emerald-green Ljubljanica River, which flows through the city’s heart and transversed with lovely bridges, adds to the charm. The castle is open for touring but check their hours as they change throughout the year.

Vurnik House and the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation

Some buildings such as the Vurnik House, which now houses the Cooperative Business Bank, are beautiful on their own. They consider the Vurnik House to be one of the finest examples of Slovenian national style architecture. Built in 1921, the Vurnik House is a brightly colored Art Nouveau building. The building’s facade frescoes painted in the colors of Slovenia, which are a bright red, white and blue are photo worthy. The Vurnik House is not open for touring.

Then there is the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation. Franciscan’s first built the church in the 1600s and later rebuilt it in the baroque style in the 1800s. An earthquake in 1896 damaged the interior of the church, and they painted new frescos in 1936, by Slovenian painter Matej Sternen. The largest statue of St Mary in Ljubljana is made of copper and sits on top of the church’s roof. If you want to do more than experience the churches architecture, the church has daily mass services.

Dragon Bridge

A visit to Ljubljana would not be complete without visiting the Art Nouveau, Dragon Bridge. The Dragon Bridge crosses the Ljubljanica River. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, when Ljubljana was part of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, each end of the bridge has two of the famous dragon statues. The almost terrifying statues of the dragons are iconic Ljubljana. Dragon bridge built at the turn of the twentieth century was quite a marvel since it was one of the first reinforced concrete bridges in Europe.

If you love architecture both the dragons and the bridge are fantastic examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Also, you might be interested to know that the Dragon Bridge replaced an old wooden bridge called Butchers’ Bridge. The Butcher’s Bridge had stood on the site from 1819. The city authorities decided a modern design of reinforced concrete was more practical and economical as construction in reinforced concrete was far less expensive than construction in the more common stone.

According to Barbara, our guide from Ride Around Tours, visitors of Ljubljana must have their photo taken next to a Dragon Bridge dragon, to claim that you have visited Ljubljana.

An Amazing Dining Experience

If you ask anyone in Ljubljana where can I go for the best dining experience in town? Most likely the answer will be AS Aperitivo. The owner, a Serbian gentleman, who goes by the name Pope is a celebrity in Ljubljana. Originally Pope’s restaurant was in the Karst countryside region of Slovenia. Because his restaurant was very popular with the people from Ljubljana who ventured to the countryside on the weekend, the restaurant moved to the historic city center of Ljubljana. Pope has been in business for over 30 years. A’s serves simple dishes with high-quality ingredients. There is lots of fresh Adriatic fish and of course, wine. Pope’s house wine is a macerated and aged Malvasia Amphora from his private vineyard in Karst. Popes ancestors made some of the wine served on the Titanic. Keith and I had dinner with Pope in his rooftop al fresco dining area.

Everything Green, Even Hotels

Remember I said that Ljubljana is a green city. Well, there is a fantastic green hotel by B&B Hotels called Ljubljana Park Hotel. Keith and I stayed there while visiting Ljubljana. Located in a quiet part of town the hotel is surrounded by trees. It is a great place to stay and to explore the city. It’s in walking distance of everything. The hotel’s motto is: reduce, reuse and recycle. The rooftop of the hotel is home to an herb garden and bee-hive with over 100,000 bees. Besides the fantastic breakfast buffet each morning, there’s a very nice restaurant with outdoor seating next door.

Ljubljana is a True Gem of Europe

Ljubljana is tiny for a capital city, but that is part of its charm. History and culture are overflowing in Ljubljana. Culinary treats from delicious light bites, wine or coffee to a world-class dining experience await. The curving Ljubljanica River, lined in outdoor cafes, separates the city’s old town from its commercial hub. Did I mention the architecture, it is some of the best in Europe. And, the best way to see Ljubljana is on a private tour with Ride Around Tours.

#Our Adventures

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topfygad · 5 years ago

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Travelmag – Al Ain: Abu Dhabi’s oasis in the desert

Acknowledged because the Yard backyard Metropolis since of its greenery, Al Ain (“The Spring” in Arabic) is located about 100 miles east of Abu Dhabi, in shut proximity to the border with Oman. It’s established in between the desert and the mountains that ship h2o for its historic strategy of wells. After I first got here on it, I used to be driving within the close by bus from Abu Dhabi and it seemed like I might have simply entered Marco Island in Florida.

There’s a great deal of web site guests and the broad boulevards are lined with stately palm timber. Flowers bloom far and wide and, though it’s February and really chilly and snowy again residence in New England, right here it’s a temperate seventy-5 ranges.

There is no such thing as a query nevertheless that it is a Middle Jap city. Storefronts are acknowledged in Arabic and English, and males in intensive white dishdashas and keffiyehs and females in black abayas stroll the streets. I hearken to the “name to prayer” from the three close by mosques 5 time a day, and dates and Arabic espresso are served as I enter the resort.

The whole city of Al Ain has been designated a UNESCO Planet Heritage net web page given that of its fairly just a few historic buildings and monuments and its seven oases. Select Three or Four occasions to thoroughly delight within the custom and sights of this fascinating place.

A Childhood Family and a Large Household

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late founder and President of the 7 Emirates, lived under as a boy. Now a museum, the Al Ain Palace Museum, it was in-built 1937 and is a beautiful and serene residence consisting of small two-story mud and stucco properties crafted throughout quite a few courtyards within the metropolis’s commonplace architectural kind.

It’s easy to visualise how the Sheikh and the ruling family lived on this article. The earlier Land Rover employed to tour the area and go to its residents sits in palm-frond shade on the entrance, and cord swings hanging from the timber are harking back to childhood days.

The reception rooms, bedrooms, “Systematic” faculty space, Holy Koran look at room, assembly rooms employed to greet attendees and guests to the palace, and the tent utilised to host space and intercontinental dignitaries in appropriate Bedouin trend are open to web site guests. As in America’s White Property, there’s a “blue room” and a “crimson room”. However right here, alternatively of time interval furnishings, you’ll uncover diminished banquettes upholstered in hand-woven Bedouin fashions and a espresso service and foodstuff tackle within the centre of each single of the general public rooms. Artifacts from the Sheikh’s days together with his beloved falcons and partner and youngsters images and work line the partitions.

The administration creating has exhibitions and a family tree that traces the ancestry of the Al Nahyan partner and youngsters, rulers of Abu Dhabi. Relations ended up very big just because Islam permits polygamy, and it was considered a father’s responsibility to have numerous little ones and enhance the tribe’s inhabitants. Sheikh Zayed set a superior instance by siring 30 children. All twenty-a individual of his sons are recognized on the tree, however none of his undisclosed collection of daughters are revealed.

Strolling By a Palm Grove

The Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO Surroundings Heritage Web web site, is made up of palm plantations, a number of of that are working farms, on roughly 3,000 acres within the heart of metropolis. Further than 147,000 date palms of 100 distinctive varieties and a few fruit-bearing timber develop under.

It has been cultivated for quite a few thousand a number of years utilizing miles of aflaj (singular: falaj), an ingenious community of water channels that faucet into underground wells and supply irrigation to the oasis on this arid native local weather. The falaj method was considered primary-edge know-how on the time it was produced, and it even now capabilities very effectively in the present day.

On the entrance to the oasis, there may be an info and information kiosk, an eco center that provides curated and interactive shows, a miniature oasis that mimics the precise oasis, a palm exhibit, and a falaj exhibition. Contained in the oasis are miles of huge narrated walkways and bicycle paths for exploring the gardens and palms and viewing the aflaj in operation. On a sunny weekday morning, it is a fairly peaceable space precisely the place all you may hear is birdsong and the contact to prayer from the small mosque within the oasis echoed by shut by mosques within the encompassing metropolis.

On the border of the oasis is the Al Ain Palace Museum to the west and the Al Ain Nationwide Museum to the east. The pathways within the oasis current a neat and quiet sanctuary within the coronary coronary heart of the occupied metropolis and are superb routes to acquire these most popular vacationer web sites.

The Fort That Shields the Palm Groves

Picturesque Al Jahili Fort was created in 1891 to defend the palm groves and mountain passes. It additionally served as a summer season months dwelling for the royals due to the town’s average local weather. The enduring fundamental tower with its stepped tiers looks as if a wedding ceremony cake and provides a perspective take a look at of the entire property.

The welcome centre has an image exhibition by British explorer Wilfred Thesiger who crossed the Vacant Quarter with a Bedouin camel caravan within the mid-1940’s and recorded what he noticed together with his digicam. Be completely certain to take a look at the documentary movie previous to viewing the exhibit. This was an superior and heart-warming feat for the adventurer as he battled the robust terrain and constructed lifestyle-prolonged pals together with his Bedouin guides.

There are also textbooks and Bedouin handicrafts on the market. Within the place adjoining to the reception, you may try basic palm weaving getting crafted by a woman placing on a metal masks and an extended black abaya. I uncovered her sitting down very low to the flooring, consuming espresso and constructing foodstuff covers and tiny baskets. Her arms ended up adorned as much as the elbows with intricate henna layouts, a logo of female magnificence and sensuality.

Camels for Sale

The Camel Souq is a working market that sits in an space within the neighborhood of the Bawadi Shopping center south of metropolis simply over and above the sheep and goat marketplaces. That is the place by you may find a racing camel for $30,000 or a new child with wonderful genetics as there are lots of of camels of various coloration, dimensions and breed to pick from. Take a look at the merchants discussing the deserves of their prize camels, however don’t get in the best way. Important group is executed under.

Whereas the market place opens on a regular basis at 6:00 am, I frequented within the late early morning. At that hour I used to be the one “buyer” and practically as prized because the camels themselves. One specific male made accessible to exhibit me some infants, and in simply 5 minutes, I had 6 smiling “guides” strolling with me, chatting excitedly in broken English, having my picture, telling me the camels won’t chew, and introducing me to their fellow merchants. I spent twenty minutes having enjoyable with their enterprise and this distinctive space, then tipped them generously and went once more to my ready round taxi.

Moon-rock and Historic Pottery on the Countrywide Museum

The Al Ain Countrywide Museum is the oldest museum within the UAE. It was constructed by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and inaugurated in 1971. I walked from the Palace Museum because of the Oasis to get there.

Its assortment of artifacts from archaeological digs throughout Al Ain and different elements of the emirates lets you hint the historical past of settlements on this space from the Stone Age to the premise of the UAE.

It’s a smaller museum with two main sections, 1 in regards to the people and tradition of the world and a unique exhibiting finds from archaeological digs. Shows embody issues like dioramas of Bedouin tradition, stunning jewellery courting from 4,000 a long time again, Bronze Age weapons, and 5,000-12 months-previous vessels excavated from tombs on Jebel Hafeet, the mountain that lies south of Al Ain. There’s additionally an fascinating display of items to UAE rulers launched by presidents and dignitaries from all around the complete world. An individual of those, a bit of rock from the moon acquired at some point of the historic Apollo 17 mission, was provided by the Countrywide Aeronautics and Home Administration within the Usa.

Hairpin Turns and Rocky Ledges

Jebel Hafeet, or Mountain Hafeet, is a marvel of mom nature that’s accessed by a highway that winds twelve miles up the mountain and is considered to be “among the many world’s greatest driving roads” by the automotive helpful useful resource, edmunds.com. It rises 4,100 ft over sea quantity and lies south of the Al Ain border shared with Oman. Abu Dhabi’s most peak, Jebel Hafeet is established out of craggy limestone that has been weathered for tens of millions of a very long time.

Within the foothills of the mountain, above 500 burial tombs have been came upon that date from the beginning of the Bronze Age within the Emirates. Artifacts from these tombs will be noticed within the Al Ain Countrywide Museum.

Collectively the best way to the very best is Eco-friendly Mubazzarah park near the bottom, a luxurious lodge near the prime, and breathtaking sights of Oman and Al Ain. System your trip for the latter part of the afternoon as a way to see the magnificent sundown.

Coming again once more to my house within the lodge, I sat on the balcony and will see the mountain freeway lit up within the distance.

* * *

In case you go:

Al Ain Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Freeway, Al Ain 1210 UAE, 971 (3) 7545111

Al Ain Palace Museum, western fringe of Al Ain Oasis, Hessa Bint Mohamed Avenue, Al Mutawaa, Al Ain, closed Mondays, 971 (3) 7118388, shut Mondays

The Camel Souq, stick with Zayed Bin Sultan Avenue east to Jebel Hafeet the market is adjoining to Bawadi Shopping center, open day-to-day

Al Ain Oasis, not considerably from Jahili Fort on Hessa bint Mohamed Street, Al Mutawaa, 971 (2) 5995438, open on daily basis

Al Jahili Fort, Sultan Bin Zayed Al Awwal Street, Al Ain, 971 (3) 7118311 shut Mondays

Al Ain Nationwide Museum, Zayed bin Sultan Avenue, following to Al Ain Oasis, open up each day

Mountain road to Jebel Hafeet’s viewing system, south of the Al Ain border shared with Oman, previous the Environmentally pleasant Mubazzarah park

Concerning the author: Elizabeth von Pier is a retired banker and an avid traveler, photographer and creator. She has been printed within the Los Angeles Moments, Within the Know Traveler, Go Nomad, WAVE Journey, Travelmag—The Unbiased Spirit, and Trip Via Historical past, and never too way back posted her to start out with e guide, “The place to Acquire Peace and Quiet in London.” Ms. von Pier lives in Hingham, Massachusetts.

source http://cheaprtravels.com/travelmag-al-ain-abu-dhabis-oasis-in-the-desert/

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tamboradventure · 5 years ago

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The Best Tour Companies in Italy

Posted: 6/22/2019 | June 22nd, 2019

Italy is home to incredible food (give me all the gnocchi and wine), rolling green hills, cultivated vineyards, incredible lakes and mountains, a long rich history dating back thousands of years, and welcome culture.

It is one of the most dynamic countries in the world and will live up to all the hype you’ve heard. It’s composed of 20 different regions, each with its own unique culture, cuisine, wine, and landscape. Italy is basically a confederation of different regional “countries and cultures.”

Because there’s so much to see and do in Italy (and not everyone has a lot of time), many travelers decide to take tours when they visit Italy.

I’ve done Italy on my own and with tour companies.

And there are A LOT of tour companies in Italy. Like way, way, way too many.

It can be very overwhelming deciding which Italy tour company to pick. I know. I’ve spent hours upon hours researching them all.

To help you plan your trip and really get beneath the surface of this amazing destination, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite tour companies in Italy.

Whether you’re looking for a basic walking tour or a multi-week excursion, these companies are the ones I think offer travelers the best experience at the right price.

Here are the nine best tour companies in Italy:

1. Rome Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to get introduced to a destination is by taking a free walking tour. Rome Free Walking Tour offers a couple of different free tours each day, allowing you to tailor your visit to your interests. Each tour is around two hours.

The tours will give you a solid introduction to the history and culture of the Eternal City without overloading you with tons of extraneous details, and the guides are knowledgeable and can answer any questions. If you just want a quick overview of the city, this is the tour for you. Since the tours are free, be sure to tip your guides!

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Rome Free Walking Tour!

2. Strawberry Tours

For free walking tours in Rome and beyond, check out Strawberry Tours. They organize tours (or collaborate with companies that run tours) in Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice. You’ll be able to get a solid overview of each iconic city thanks to expert local guides. These free tours are 2-3 hours long, making them a great introduction to each destination. They also offer more in-depth paid tours if you’re looking to do something more unique, such as priority-access tours to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence or fully guided day trips to sites such as Pompeii. Paid tours start around 30 EUR per person, depending on the tour.

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Strawberry Tours!

3. Context

Context offers comprehensive history, food, and cultural tours in half a dozen cities across Italy. These are intellectual walks packed with history, perfect for anyone looking to really get below the surface.

Context only hires experts to lead their tours, which is why their tours are some of my favorites. You’ll really get an in-depth look at each destination, and while their tours aren’t cheap, they are worth every penny if you’re serious about getting a nuanced and educational tour. Tours can range from a two-hour introduction to an eight-hour, full-day tour, so there’s something for every taste and interest level.

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Context!

4. Italy Food Tours

This is one of the most highly rated food tour companies in Italy. They’ve been featured by Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Forbes, and many other popular publications. In short, they’re a perfect choice for anyone looking to really dig in and learn about Italy’s world-famous food cuisine. The food tours, drink tours, and pasta-making classes are guaranteed to give you an authentic local experience guided by experts who truly know their topics. They offer tours in Rome and Florence, with each generally lasting 3-4 hours. Tickets start at 75 EUR per person. They sell out fast, so be sure to book in advance!

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Italy Food Tours!

5. Divina Cucina Culinary Experiences

Judy is an American expat who has been eating and drinking her way around Italy since the 1980s, and she has crafted some unique experiences for anyone looking to get under Italy’s culinary skin. Her private “Morning at the Market” tours in Florence will give you a nuanced look at Italy’s food culture and history, during which she shares her cooking tips and expertise. Judy also offers weeklong cooking intensives if you’re looking to really step up your Italian cuisine.

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Divina Cucina Culinary Experiences!

6. Walks of Italy

If you’re looking for something a little more in-depth than a free tour, my favorite walking tour company in Italy is Walks. They are one of the largest day tour companies in Italy and offer tours in Rome, Milan, Florence, Venice, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast. What makes them so special is that they get access to places other people don’t, including before- or after-hours visits to some of the most popular sites in Italy (such as the Vatican or the Colosseum). In addition to historical tours, they also conduct food tours, vineyard tours, and even pasta-making classes. They are true experts and I love their tours. They are my favorite tour company in Italy.

Most tours last around four hours and start at around 60 EUR per person.

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Walks of Italy!

7. Busabout

Busabout is a hop-on/hop-off bus service that has routes all around Europe. It’s a popular choice with the backpacker crowd, as you can not only explore the country but also get to meet and connect with other travelers. They offer routes around Italy, ranging from three to seven days, as well as routes around Europe that include Italy in their itinerary, so you can likely find something to suit your budget as well as your travel plans. Their stops in Italy include Rome, Ravello, Amalfi, Sorrento, Capri, and Pompeii. If you are looking to meet lots of people and not spend too much time worrying about your itinerary, then this is a great affordable option.

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Busabout!

8. Travel Italian Style

My friend Cassandra runs this incredible bespoke travel company that creates customized trips to Italy. She’s been working in the tourism industry for well over a decade and has been to every single region of Italy. In short, she knows her stuff and can plan the perfect getaway for you. Vineyard tours, cooking classes, boutique accommodations — you’re guaranteed to experience life as a local with Cassandra’s tours. If you’re looking for an immaculately curated vacation to Italia, this is the tour company for you.

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Travel Italian Style!

9. Intrepid Travel

This is my go-to travel company when I’m looking for multi-day or multi-week trips. They employ local guides with incredible insight and appreciation for the communities they take you to, and the groups are never too big. Plus, they only run ethical tours with a small environmental footprint. They last 8-15 days (including sailing trips!), with prices starting at 695 EUR per person. I’ve gone on some amazing tours with Intrepid over the years, including to Jordan, Morocco, and Madagascar, and have never been disappointed.

—> Click here to learn more about booking a tour with Intrepid Travel!

(As a Nomadic Matt reader, you’ll also get an exclusive discount; click on the link for the latest deals.)

***

Tantalizing food tours, charming visits to historic vineyards, deep dives into ancient history — you can find it all in Italy. Whether you’re looking for a quick introduction or an in-depth, multi-day adventure, these awesome Italian tour companies will help you have the trip you’ve always wanted.

Book Your Trip to Italy: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time. My favorite places to stay are:

The Yellow (Rome) – This is a great party hostel if you’re looking to have fun and meet people. The hostel is right above a nightclub, so if you’re looking for a quiet trip, don’t stay here!

Ostello Bello (Milan) – This hostel is in a great location, the staff are wonderful, and they have free breakfast included.

Ostello Archi Rosso (Florence) – This is a basic budget hostel that’s affordable and in a great location. The staff are friendly and there is a restaurant onsite as well.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)

Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Want More Information on Italy? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Italy for even more planning tips!

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keremulusoy · 5 years ago

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Every question has an answer in this place, so long as it is abaout coffee, history, and Balat!

Mister Serhat Ersürel, founder of Cumbalı Kahve (Bay Window Coffee House) is a magnificent man. He has given years of his life for this work, all but specialized in coffee and presentation, and he welcomes his precious guests with his deep knowledge of history, after learning and knowing everything there is to know about Balat. Cumbalı Kahve may be just one of the 115 cafés in Balat, but it maybe is the most specialized among them.

Mr. Serhat begins talking by telling us “We make only and only coffee here”, and continues “I am even more pleased when my customers ask for coffee with no or little sugar.” When we ordered coffee with no sugar without knowing this when he asked how we would prefer the coffee he was to treated us to, he displayed his contentment through his body language, as if saying “that’s it”. He virtually created a coffee civilization inside a 9.5 m2 store. He does not offer chocolate or Turkish delight with the coffee, saying “That spoils the taste of coffee” and breaking the mold. “We, as Cumbalı Kahve, prepare brewed filter coffee and high-quality Turkish coffee together with all techniques and unknown aspects and offer them to our customers. We prefer coffee to be with no sugar. This enables us to better perceive the tastes, scents, and aromas inside coffee. In fact, there are some false facts that people think are right about Turkish coffee. For instance, time to consume, the manner of crushing, use of correct pH, and coffee cups. We try here to use all these along the methods we know to be true.”

The store of Mr. Serhat may be small but his horizons go far beyond. He may tell you anything and everything you are curious about coffee. He even sells Jamaica Blue Mountain, Hawai Cona, Panama Esmeralda Geisha, Yemen Mocca that are among the best 10 coffees of the world and products like coffee fruit Cascara, and he can tell everything there is to know about all these products.

“Besides water, coffee is the cheapest drink in the world. Our familiarity with coffee begins at around the year 1517 when Özdemir Pasha, governor of Yemen that was conquered stage by stage since the age of Yavuz Sultan Selim, presented coffee to the palace; and coffee was then most liked at the palace. The public also appreciated coffee, after which coffee began popular in our culture. Orderly coffee farms were first established in Yemen by the order of the Ottomans. Thus we introduced Turkish coffee, the only coffee cooked over fire different from other cooking and brewing methods, to the world. So there is something called Turkish coffee in world literature. When an Italian comes to this store, we have a hard time having him drink our coffee, Turkish coffee, he has his own culture and he preserves his own culture. You cannot have him drink it, it is just not possible. And here we are, as Cumbalı Kahve, trying to form our own culture, an informed Turkish coffee culture. You cannot find anything other than coffee here. There is no tea in this store. Neither breakfast nor anything else. There are coffee and water. Well, there is also Balat, there are history and books.”

Following a brief smile, Mr. Serhat continues telling. We understand from what he tells that he follows all local or foreign masters about coffee. He goes on, “Try, go and try at every coffee store. Sample the coffees of different coffee roasters. Try, always try and find the coffee that is best for you and your taste. Even then after finding the perfect coffee for you, still, continue trying new tastes from time to time.”

When you visit Cumbalı Kahve, this small but one of the rarest of places to visit of Balat and even of the country, the place itself tells you of so many things that you say to yourself, ‘This store, this owner of the store, they really went through so much experience.’ Mr. Serhat gives you such coffee techniques and hints that you even begin to question your coffee habits. He explains to you about all things coffee, from the cup choice you use to whether to use ground or roasted coffee, the right consistency and the time to offer each. We can say that Cumbalı Kahve enjoys a magnificent experience in regards to the coffee repertoire. He may explain all techniques for many minutes and will not forget to tell at the end, “I make only and only coffee here.” This is the kind of place it is and this is the kind of person Mr. Serhat is.

Cumbalı Kahve and its experienced owner is not merely a coffee expert. He also has other fields of expertise. He came to know many different cultures closely. He says, “You cannot become localized without becoming universalized, you have to know closely the people and the tourists to whom you are to sell coffee.” and continues, “I have read many many books for the 5 years before opening up this store, I know as much Greek history as any Greek, as much Jewish history as any Jew, and as much Armenian history as any Armenian.” And going on after highlighting that he is a complete admirer of Balat, he says, “This place is the new rising trend of İstanbul. So to say, in this quarter which was neglected until recently, million dollars are spoken now. Now everybody comes to visit Balat with tours lead by local guides and contributes significantly to the economy of the quarter. I think that as a person living in Balat, I should know this place like the palm of my hand. When our guests come, we have to direct them to the best breakfast café, best restaurant, best soup store, best meatball store, best tripe store, and best dessert store, because we lead the way for them to come back to Balat when they receive the best services. Guides know me well, they always come and go, I gather information from them and they gather information from me.”

Cumbalı Kahve is an utterly decent place at the corner of the street. It has a very elegant design, and books strike your attention right in the center of the place. These books are mostly about Balat and coffee. Such as Fener-Balat-Ayvansaray of Ahmet Faik Özbilge and Topraktan Fincana Kahve (Coffee from the Soil to Your Cup) of Cenk R. Girginol. Serhat places so much importance on these two books. He points of reading and improve oneself by telling us, “I read a lot of books but I prefer to read books about Balat and coffee as a priority, and of course history books. Because my store is in Balat, and I am a businessman offering coffee. It would be a great failing for me if there was a new development about my field and I do not know it.”

When you enter Cumbalı Kahve, you will see over the door writing that perhaps you may see nowhere else. Let this be a surprise for you to get curious about until you go visit. From that very writing you will understand that, just as Cumbalı Kahve, also its owner Mr. Serhat looks into life with certain rules, and provides us with many lectures on life as if saying ‘you have to have a story of yourself, it will not do otherwise’. Besides these, while Cumbalı Kahve is utterly particular and strict in terms of serving coffee, but Mr. Serhat has begun to sell also espresso-based coffees in response to the insistence of some of his customers since one year ago. He expresses, with a somewhat compelled attitude, “I do not understand those who consume milk-based coffees when they could drink exquisite Turkish coffee and brewed filtered coffee produced from high-quality beans but what can I do, I make the necessary explanation to everyone and then prepare their coffee as they desire.” In short, you will find only coffee when you visit Cumbalı Kahve. Even to the finest details of all lands and all techniques. But especially you will find brewed filtered coffee and high-quality Turkish coffee. While becoming deeply knowledgeable in regards to the history and landmarks of Balat, you will also learn of where to eat, what to do where in the quarter. And of course, the books… They will also tell you many things. Through the wise manner of Mr. Serhat.

NOTE: Balat is one of the rare quarters of the city where the older and newer texture of İstanbul may be seen together. Balat quarter is among those neighbourhoods of İstanbul that differ with its narrow streets, old houses, solitary and blind alleys and historical places… Bay window houses, stairway ramps, narrow cobblestone streets, laundry hang up on ropes stretching from house to house, neighbourhood inhabitants sitting on street stairways… Balat offer cafés, teahouses at every street where you could take a break. Different cultures lived together in this quarter for hundreds of years. You can see holy and historical places such as churches, mosques and synagogues together at the same area.

Yazan: Okan Işık / Fotoğraf: Sevinç Doğu Yılmaz

*This article was published in the March-April issue of Marmara Life.

Cumbali Kahve Every question has an answer in this place, so long as it is abaout coffee, history, and Balat!

#Coffee

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cynthiadshaw · 6 years ago

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25 Crazy Cool Collections in DFW

It was actually the installation of three painted pianos in downtown Dallas that inspired this article. I wondered how many out of the ordinary collections and displays I could find around DFW, and it turned out to be quite a few. Use our links and maps to see these offbeat art pieces and artifacts.

A Quirky Assortment

If you’ve lived in North Texas, you’ve heard of a few of these, but I also found some that may surprise you. All of these goofball (but sometimes serious) collections are must-see sights for DFW locals and visitors alike.

Painted Pianos in Historic Downtown Mansfield

Photo courtesy of Mansfield 88 Piano Project

I was pretty surprised to learn that Mansfield has painted pianos too. Called the Mansfield 88 Piano Project, there are currently 9 painted pianos located in various parts of the city’s historic downtown. “Downtown Mansfield” is the name of a free app you can download (iOS or Android) to guide you to the pianos and other public art plus services, shopping, dining and more in Mansfield.

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400 Cowboy Hats Art Piece in Fort Worth

Photo courtesy of Fort Worth Public Art

Around here, star-shaped art is moderately commonplace. This particular star is definitely not your ordinary art. It’s 28 feet wide and suspended from the ceiling at the Fort Worth Convention Center. What makes it a collection is the fact that the star is covered with 400 cowboy hats – all donated by the local, locally famous, or nationally known people who wore them. Artist Donald Lipski named the piece Intimate Apparel and Pearl Earrings. It’s free to view if you’re in the convention center when there’s not a scheduled event.

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Five Recreated Entire Rooms from World-Renowned Art Collectors in Dallas

Almost every museum in existence contains a few oddball art pieces or exhibitions, and the Dallas Museum of Art is no different. For over 30 years, a 16,500-square-foot wing has been the home of an actual home. Well, it’s not really a home, but it’s a recreation of five rooms where Wendy and Emery Reves lived in the south of France.

The villa was designed by Coco Chanel, and over a thousand art pieces were displayed there. In the recreated bedroom, dining room, salon, library, and hall, you will see over a thousand art pieces including works by impressionist painters Cézanne, Gauguin, Manet, and Monet. Their collection also included sculpture by Auguste Rodin and even some artwork by Winston Churchill, who was a frequent guest in their home.

This exhibit is part of the permanent collection at the DMA, so it’s all free to see.

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A Park Decked with Teddy Bear Statues in Highland Park

The Turtle Creek Dam bridge and its surroundings are part of a beautifully landscaped city park in Highland Park. The park has been listed so many times in “hidden places in Dallas” articles that it’s no longer a secret of any kind, but it’s still a fun place to hang out.

You see, amid the mature trees and near the Read Memorial fountain you’ll find four (much) larger than life statues – of teddy bears! The biggest one is taller than most adults – stand beside it, hug it, or sit on its lap for an iconic Dallas selfie.

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The Chairy Orchard in Denton

Photo courtesy of The Chairy Orchard

Chairy is not a typo here – this is no grove of cherry trees, but a mini orchard full of chairs. I said mini, because when you go, if you’re looking for a huge field or a park-like place, you’ll drive right by it. The Chairy Orchard was dreamed up by two Dallas businesswomen who are also neighbors. It occupies a vacant lot between their houses in a residential neighborhood.

The lot sits back from the street a ways, but you can definitely see it when you arrive. Walk through the lawn a few yards, and you’ll be surrounded by an incredible assortment of all kinds of chairs, mostly donated by the people of Denton. The collection of crazy chairs just keeps growing, and it’s a truly magical place for a professional or an impromptu photo shoot.

This unique attraction in Denton is free to visit, but you can purchase a pen or a cup on-site or a T-shirt online to support the project. Its Facebook page tells us there are exciting improvements ahead and mentions that they are working with Valley Quest Design – a local landscape architecture firm.

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Ripley’s Believe It or Not and its Free Outdoor Sculpture Garden in Grand Prairie

Photo courtesy of Ripley's Believe It or Not! (Grand Prairie, TX)

It would be hard to argue against Ripley’s Believe it or Not as the wackiest collection in DFW. Its Odditorium and Wax Museum are just two of the five attractions on site. Prices vary, and combo tickets for multiple attractions are available.

Parking is free at the Ripley’s, and before you head inside (or even if you don’t), you can wander through their outdoor sculpture garden. It’s got a giant ball of barbed wire, a set of three chromosaurs (dinosaurs modeled out of chrome auto parts), and an oversized gorilla (also made of auto parts.) Add in a few more oddball statuary and you’re in for a fun time and some unbelievable photos!

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Japanese Samurai Armor in Dallas

Photo courtesy of The Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection

This collection isn’t wacky, but it’s a little bit crazy that the largest collection of Samurai armor outside of Japan is right here in Dallas. The Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum is on the second floor, directly above Saint Ann restaurant, so the location is a bit quirky as well.

The armor and other artifacts come from the Barbier-Mueller’s personal collection in which they amassed over a thousand treasures over the last 25 years. Many of the helmets, masks, and horse equipment objects are on display at the museum, while others are loaned to traveling exhibits, and still more are displayed in lobbies of the Dallas real estate developer’s buildings.The museum (like most others in DFW and nationwide) is closed on Monday, but has public hours six days a week and is free. (Tuesday evening cocktail events require a small admission fee and include a tasty beverage.)

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Tools of the Funeral Service Trade (Circa Late 1800s) in Grapevine

Photo courtesy of Tarrant County Historical Commission Friends

One of the oldest funeral homes in North Texas, J.E. Foust & Son Funeral Home has been in continuous operation since 1880. On the north end of their property, on Main Street in historic downtown Grapevine, you’ll encounter a small building with glass walls. Inside the display room, you can view a horse-drawn hearse, several coffins, and other items unique to the funereal business. A historical marker outside the display pays tribute to the Foust family and their civic as well as business contributions to Grapevine.

→ Foust Funeral Home

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Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (Not to Mention Motorcycles)

The Dallas area has a wide range of activities, museums, and exhibits related to modern methods of travel. These examples have some very interesting collections.

Artifacts from the Hindenburg and Other Dirigibles in Dallas

Photo courtesy of Frontiers Of Flight Museum

This exhibit is one of 13 collections at the Frontiers of Flight museum. From the earliest attempts at flight to space flight and much, much more in between, you’ll see some awe-inspiring things here. Open 7 days a week, the museum’s admission fee is modest, and parking is free.

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Other Flying Collections

If you love plane-centered museums, DFW has kind of a collection of those. In addition to the Frontiers of Flight Museum, you may also want to check out the CR Smith Museum, the Vintage Flying Museum, or the Cavanaugh Flight Museum in Addison.

Real Railroad Cars and Locomotives in Frisco

DFW has numerous museums surrounding the railroad industry which breathed life into the area and made it what it is today. We even have an operative Vintage Railroad train, and we have the largest permanent model train display in America. I may have to round those up for you in a future story, but for now, let me tell you about the Museum of the American Railroad in Frisco. You can read more about the train fun in DFW here.

Originally opened in Fair Park in 1963, the museum and its contents were physically moved to Frisco starting in 2008. Tours of the rolling stock are still somewhat limited. Please check the website for details before visiting the museum.

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Vintage Cars in Weatherford

Photo courtesy of Vintage Car Museum and Event Center

There are surprisingly few car collections in DFW. (I guess all the cars are on dealer lots or on the freeways!) But in one suburb of Fort Worth, you can view a collection of classic automobiles at the free Vintage Car Museum & Event Center. Even more cool classic cars are on display at the Vintage Grill across the street.

Of course, if you want to make the five-hour drive out to Amarillo, you can stop by the iconic Cadillac Ranch.

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Rare Motorcycles in Dallas

Photo courtesy of Haas Moto Museum & Sculpture Gallery

There’s a new museum in town, and you’ve never seen anything like it. At age 70, Dallas financier and former National Geographic aerial photographer Bobby Haas has outdone himself yet again. His latest claim to fame is the newly opened Haas Moto Museum in the Design District.

The museum showcases over 100 classic, custom, and vintage motorcycles as well as sculptures and artwork that celebrate motorcycle culture over a span of 12 decades. The cycles are all from Haas’s personal collection which he started amassing after riding a motorcycle for the first time at age 64.

The museum will be closed from until September 3rd to refresh its exhibits, so make plans to visit after Labor Day.

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Bonus: It’s not in DFW, but one of a very few things I’d drive to Houston to see is their Art Car Museum.

Before Planes, Trains, or Automobiles

Before the advent of trains made diversifying the area’s economy possible, cattle were a large source of income for many North Texans. The DFW area has its own collection of cattle drive art paying tribute to those days.

Three Cattle Drive Bronze Installations in Dallas, Plano, and Frisco

Pioneer Plaza in Dallas

Photo courtesy of Dallas Segway Tours

Texas artist Robert Summers began creating this installation for the city of Dallas in 1992. With 49 six-foot-tall steers and 3 cowboys, it was (at the time) the largest bronze sculpture installation in the world. (It’s still the largest cattle drive sculpture anywhere.) Located in a City of Dallas park near the convention center, the cattle seem to wander over a limestone ridge and through a nearby water feature straight into the heart of downtown.

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Trails in Legacy near Baccus Plaza in Plano

Also by Robert Summers, this cattle drive stretches down Bishop street over the course of several blocks. This gives the effect of a realistic trail drive with some riders and cattle lagging behind the others.

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The Shawnee Trail in Frisco

Photo courtesy of Frisco Public Art

The smallest of the three installations, this one is also in the most scenic setting. Set within the water feature and fountain in Central Park, this Created by Anita Pauwels in 2003 depicts cowboys at rest and steers in motion.

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The Mustangs of Las Colinas in Irving

If you like horse statues better than cow statues, you may like The Mustangs in Las Colinas by African wildlife artist Robert Glen. It even has a museum dedicated to the artist’s time designing and building it.

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Architectural

Dallas has a couple of beautiful architectural collections too.

Art Deco Buildings at Fair Park in Dallas

172 Fountains at the I. M. Pei Fountain Place in Dallas

Online Collections

There are a number of online collections related to North Texas, and I picked a couple to share with you. One is simply a huge repository of interesting information and the other was a long-time public display in Dallas that’s now available to tour online.

Portal to Texas History

This is a collection of collections available courtesy of the University of North Texas. It contains reference material on thousands of subjects from agriculture to wrestling.

The Adrian E. Flatt, M.D. Hand Collection – Online Only

Photo courtesy of Ben Simo

Frequently mentioned in lists of quirky or obscure attractions in Dallas, this public exhibit may have been permanently closed. Formerly located at Truett Memorial Hospital, now part of Baylor University Medical I couldn’t confirm any of its details on an official website or Facebook page. However, the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) has created a virtual exhibit of over 100 bonze-cast hands. Dr. Flatt created these casts of famous people from all walks of life – musicians, athletes, politicians, artists and more.

And of course FunCityStuff.com!

Of course, we hope your favorite online collection is the FunCityStuff.com website. We love to collect and share stories and tips about fun places, fun food, and fun stuff in North Texas. Let us know how we’re doing in the comments or on our Facebook page.

The post 25 Crazy Cool Collections in DFW appeared first on FunCity Stuff DFW.

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