Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Central Asia


This week I took my travels to the region of Central Asia. I was able to do a variety of different activities while I explore the area. I first traveled to the country of Tajikistan, after visiting the area for some time I decided to visit the towering mountainous region of the Himalayas. So, here is what I did!
Tajikistan:
The first stop I had to make while visiting Tajikistan was the beautiful Glacial lake located in Tajikistan’s Sughd Province. The lake is named Iskanderkul, also known as Lake Alexander, the lake itself lies at an altitude of 2,195 meters of the northern slopes in the Gissar Range of the Fann Mountains. The lake’s glassy, blue surface is truly an eye-opening site to witness, something you might see out of a mythical dream!
The country of Tajikistan is a very mountainous region, much of the land being taken up by it’s towering mountain ranges. There wasn’t a site in the country that wasn’t truly magnificent. I continued my travels by seeing the different mountain ranges that the country is home to. The Pamir Mountains – a junction with the Himalayas and Tian Shan, Karakoram, Kunlun, Hindu Kush, Suleman and Hindu Raj ranges. The Fann Mountains (the first place I visited with Iskanderkul Lake).
My trip to Tajikistan allowed me to experience an environment like no other, the trip was truly one to never forget, once again!
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The Himalayas:
Of course, one cannot simply visit Central Asia without seeing the grand-daddy of all mountain ranges, the Himalayas! Although the Himalayas lie mostly throughout the country of Nepal, the mountain range is in junction with many other ranges throughout Central Asia. The Himalayas form a barrier between the Plateau of Tibet to thee North and the Alluvial plains of the Indian subcontinent to the south. As you may already know, they are the highest mountains in the world, with over 110 peaks reaching elevations of 24,000 feet or more!
Not only are the mountains filled with snowy glaciers and mind-boggling heights, but they are in fact inhabited by 52.7 million people – spread across five countries being Nepal, India, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan. Since we were to visit the Central Asian countries this week, I spent my time exploring the region along the border of China. Being able to see the variety of cultures throughout the Mountain Range was an experience to never forget. Each tradition that these cultures holds has its similarities, but each are still so different! Yet another trip of a lifetime!
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Wednesday, March 21, 2018

Russia


This week I was given the opportunity to visit the Russian Domain. The entire experience I had visiting the country was astonishing. I took my time to give a hand to the homeless children in Russia. After taking some time at in the city of Moscow, Russia to help, I also took some time to visit the mind-blowing lands of Siberia. So, here’s what I did!
Moscow, Russia:
I decided it would be a wonderful opportunity while visiting Russia to give a helping hand. Through an agency, I decided to volunteer in Moscow, Russia’s largest city as well as it’s capital. The city is unfortunately home to a handful of issues. Due to it’s high living expenses, the city makes it difficult for those who are less fortunate to get by.
While I was in Moscow I worked with an agency devoted in the elderly, disabled, and war veterans, as well as the homeless (children included). While volunteering I was able to help serve in soup kitchens, aid in the orphanages, teach English to both children and adults, along with a variety of other volunteer work in community centers. The entire experience was one to remember, it was extremely eye-opening to see the issues that are present throughout the area. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to help those that are in need.
Not only was I given a great experience volunteering with the people of Moscow, but I also got to see a lot of beautiful city!
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Siberian District, Russia:
While I was visiting the astonishing District of Siberia, I was able to see a variety of natural beauty throughout the area.
The first place I decided to visit was Lake Baikal. Lake Baikal is a massive lake, located in the mountainous region of Siberia, just north of the Mongolian border. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake on Earth, holding a whopping maximum depth of 5,387 feet! The lake itself is surrounded with a handful of wonderful hiking trails, perfect for sight-seeing. Visiting in the cold months allowed for some perfect ice-skating and dog-sledding as well!
The next stop I made in Siberia was less-so a stop, but more of a trip! I was able to hop onto the Trans-Siberian Railway! The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railroad in the world, with a mind-boggling 5,771 miles of rails. The Great Siberian route allows for you to travel the entire country just by sitting in the train. The train passes by some magnificent sites that you can view through the large windows. The train also stops by some of the more significant towns and cities allowing you to take in more of the country. I can surely say this railway is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty in the Russian Domain!
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Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Europe

This week I took a trip to the continent of Europe. This trip was certainly a memorable one, choosing just two sites to visit was extremely difficult! The two sites I chose to visit were first Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre in Italy, and the second was Malta! So, here is what I did!
Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre, Italy:
Parch Nazionale delle Cinque Terre is a protected national park area of Italy, located in the province of La Spezia, Liguria of Northern Italy. The brightly colored fishing villages located off the Ligurian Coast are certainly a magnificent site.
The activities of the area are endless, but even something as simple as a hike was intriguing. While walking along the coast many breathtaking coastal views can be seen along the trails that connect the five villages in Cinque Terre. One of my most favorite villages had to be Vernazza, the colorful houses that surround the bright blue waters of the marina were stunning!
Of course, while visiting Italy, one cannot leave without trying some of the mouth-watering cuisine. My favorite restaurant had to have been Al Castello. The restaurant overlooks the water, offering a breath-taking view of the sunset. One of the restaurants most favorable meals is their mussels, stuffed with bread crumbs, mortadella cheese, and herbs!
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Stuffed. Parco Nazionale delle Cinque Terre  Italy
Malta:
My next stop was the Mediterranean island of Malta, located in between Sicily and the North African coast. The area is filled with history from influences of the Romans, Moors, Knights of Saint John, as well as the French and British. Not only is the site architecturally beautiful, but it is certainly filled with natural beauty as well!
My first stop was of course the beaches! I visited two of the more popular beaches called Ghajn Tuffieha and Golden Bay. Both beaches are found on the north-west coast. This is the perfect spot for any water activity, whether that may be taking a peaceful dive in the water to see the aquatic life or sailing along the blue waters. Of course, I also took time to lay on the warm, red-sand beach as well.
After taking some time to take in the natural beauty of the area, I decided it was time to see some history. I visited the city of Mdina, a perfectly preserved walled city located on the north part of the main island of Malta. This site was once the country’s capital during the 16th century, and home to some of the wealthiest people. My favorite site in the city was the beautiful, large mosaics!
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Friday, February 23, 2018

Southwest Asia & North Africa

This week we travelled to Southwest Asia and Northern Africa. I decided to take-a-look at the historical sites of Southwest Asia by travelling to the city of Jerusalem of Israel as well as visiting the city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. After my time in Southwest Asia, I travelled around Northern Africa as well. Here I decided to visit the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, as well as Marrakesh of Morocco. So, here’s my trip!
Jerusalem, Israel:
(For these sites I’m choosing to not write about the current conflicts of the area)
The city of Jerusalem has been a place of pilgrimage and worship for Jews, Christians and Muslims since the biblical era. The city is home to countless historical holy sites that are extremely sacred towards each of these religions. While I was in the city, I first visited the Tower of David, also known as the Jerusalem citadel. This ancient citadel is located near the Gate entrance to the Western part of the city, this gate is called the Jaffa Gate. This citadel contains important archaeological finds that date back to over 2,000 years. The amount of history of this site is truly indescribable in words.
The next stop I made while in the city was the Western Wall. The Western Wall can also be recognized by the names, Wailing Wall, Kotel, or Al-Buraq Wall. This ancient wall is composed mostly of limestone, it is considered holy due to its connection to the Temple Mount – the elevated plaza above the Western Wall, home to the Dome of Rock as well as the Al-Aqsa Mosque. Overall, the Western Wall is used today as a designated place of prayer for Judaism.
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Mecca, Saudi Arabia:
Mecca or Makkah is known as the holiest of Muslim cities, as Muhammed – the founder of Islam – was born in Mecca. Mecca is a religious center for Muslims, home to the Great Mosque of Mecca, which holds the Kaaba. This is known as Islam’s holiest site. This site is a shrine where Muslims orient themselves toward during the five daily prayers. The structure of the Kaaba is about 50 feet tall and 35 by 40 feet at it’s base. Made up mostly of stone and marble, and the interior is just simply three pillars to support the roof. The Kaaba can be seen covered with a black cloth known as the Kiswah for a majority of the year. The sight of such an important piece of Islam religion was truly magnificent.
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Pyramids of Giza, Egypt:
The Pyramids of Giza are located just outside of the city Cairo in Egypt, just off the west bank of the Nile River. The pyramids themselves are over 4,000 years old, said to be constructed between 2560 and 2540 BCE. The three pyramids (from left to right) are called Menkaure, Khafre, and Khufu. The largest of the three pyramids, Khufu, is known as the “Great Pyramid”, standing at 455 feet tall. However, erosion has taken part in the “shrinking” of the pyramids height.
The building of the pyramids is still unknown to this day, just little evidence has provided ideas to theorize how they were built. Most likely spiral staircases were used to slowly stack the stones.
Unfortunately, as a visitor you are not able to see many artifacts from the chambers within the pyramids. Mostly everything from the Pyramids has been stolen! None-the-less, the Pyramids are a truly mind-boggling site to visit. Remaining as the oldest, and last standing Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
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Marrakesh, Morocco
My last stop was in the city of Marrakesh, located in Morocco. Marrakesh is the former imperial city in wester Morocco. The city is home to many beautiful mosques, palaces gardens.
While I was in the city I began my tour by visiting the daily square of Marrakesh, this area is known as Jemaa el-Fna. The center is thriving with artists, entertainers, fresh food and drinks, and many other events. If you’re looking to experience the culture of the locals in the area, this is the place to be!
My next stop had to be one of the mosques in the area, so I decided to visit the Koutoubia Mosque. This is the largest Mosque in Marrakesh. The mosque is filled with magnificent architectural designs, showcasing beautiful 12th-century minaret art.
The whole city is filled left and right with something new and different, yet another experience of a lifetime!
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Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Sub-Saharan Africa

This week we travelled a bit further from home… all the way to Sub-Saharan Africa! The vast lands very different from anything in the Americas. I first began my journey by visiting Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Then my next stop, Nyungwe Forest of Rwanda. So, here’s what I did!
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania:
Majestically placed within the African plains is the towering, Mount Kilimanjaro. Let me tell you, it is even more beautiful than the pictures it is depicted in! It is the tallest mountain on the African continent and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. The journey took roughly 8 days to reach the summit of the mountain. It had its challenges, but it was certainly worth it! When my group reached the summit, we took the time to record our thoughts of the hike in the wooden box left on the top of the mountain, it’s a tradition for hikers to do so. I was one of the nearly 20,000 other hikers to attempt the climb this year. Compared to the very first successful summit occurred in 1889, and it took about six weeks in comparison to today when an average climber can do it in five or six days.
Overall, the journey when hiking the mystical Mount Kilimanjaro was an adventure of a lifetime!
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Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda:
Nyungwe Forest of Rwanda is home to Africa’s great river, the Congo. In fact, the Congo-Nile divide is a mountain range that runs north to south through Rwanda. The forest itself is apart of the National Park, known for it’s safari expeditions. On these trips there is opportunity to view a vast amount of wildlife. The forest is home to large populations of primates (nearly 13 species!), from its chimpanzees to other threatened species of monkeys.
The Forest is highly protective by the Government of Rwanda, making sure to preserve it’s natural beauty. Not only does it need to protect the natural wildlife and biolife, but it also is to protect the natives of the area. The peoples are very diverse, with artisan skills ranging from their song, dance, cuisine, handicrafts and much more.
The experience of hiking and taking part in the safaris was an experience like no other!
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Thursday, February 8, 2018

Caribbean

This week we continue travelling down south, but this time in the Caribbean! I first spent my time on the beautiful beaches of Malmok, Aruba. Then, I travelled to see some history in the small country of Barbados. So, here’s what I did!
Malmok, Aruba:
Malmok beach is a vacation straight out of a post card, it is pure paradise! With the endless activities, everything from windsurfing along to coast, to the 18-hole golf course, you will always have something to see or do.
Another popular activity to take part in is of course snorkeling in the crystal clear, Caribbean waters. Reefs and sunken ships make the area perfect for under water sight-seeing. Whether you prefer to take a 10-minute walk to Malmok, or even drop by off a sailboat, whatever you chose to do is convenient and provides more sight-seeing on the way. I personally chose to ride my bike to the beach; many locals and tourists can be seen riding bicycle down the roads of the area.
Of course, the most memorable sight can be found early in the morning, or the evening. The magnificent sunsets and sunrises off the beaches are one of a kind (shown below).
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Barbados:
Besides doing the basic beach to beach sight-seeing, I thought it would be necessary to take my time to reflect on the rich cultural heritage and visit the historic sites and properties of the Caribbean. So, in Barbados I visited a handful of historical sites.
The first site I stopped at was Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados. This commercial center has been named after the crude bridge constructed over the river of Careenage. There are many activities to take part in while visiting the city, one of the most beautiful things to see their bright cultural festivals.
Another site I decided to visit is a naturally historical site. One of the most famous natural history sites of the Caribbean to be exact, known as Harrison’s cave. This is a 3-mile long save, home to beautiful natural rock formations that make up the island of Barbados.
The last site I visited was the Golden Grove. The Golden Grove is an old use that dates back to the 17th century. The Golden Grove has historic connections to the 1816 slave rebellion with leaders of the revolt escaping to the Golden Grove house from a nearby plantation. The house allows for a one of a kind experience, rather than a basic hotel, and it certainly is beautifully one-of-a-kind.
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Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Latin America

This week I travelled down to the south to Latin America! I decided to take my time exploring the different waterworks of Latin America by first visiting Lake Atitlan in Guatemala! My next stop was Bayahibe of the Dominican Republic. So, let me tell you about my trip!

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala:
Lake Atitlan is the deepest lake of Central America, with a depth of about 1,115 feet. The lake is just 3 hours away from the capital, Guatemala City. The lake itself attracts many tourists throughout the entire year.
The word Atitlan means ‘at the water/place where the rainbow gets its colors’ in the Mayan language known as Nahuati. The lake is a volcanic lake, with dozens of Mayan villages all around it’s shoreline. So, not only was I amazed by the lake’s natural beauty, but also, it’s cultural beauty of the local Mayan civilizations. There wasn’t a minute of boredom when I was visiting this lake. There are so many activities offered, everything from the breathtaking views of the volcanic mountains, the unforgettable outdoor activities, to the cultural activities located in each of the towns along the lake side. The trip was truly one to remember!
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Bayahibe, Dominican Republic:
My next stop lays just 10 miles east of La Romana, the beautiful fishing town of Bayahibe. This, however, is not just any fishing town. Its beautiful beaches calmed me into relaxation, and the natural beauty of the water offered many unforgettable activities!
The area around this small village is protected by a National Park, called the Parque Nacional del Este, to preserve the delicate ecosystem of sea-grass beds, mangrove forests, rocky coasts, and of course its shimmering white-sand beaches. The crystal-clear waster is perfect for divers. Some of the most memorable spots to dive include the cave diving near Santo Domingo, Bayahibe. Catalina Island, where you can see an abundance of colorful tropical fish. Saona Island, where the shallow sand bars are perfect to spot the friendly nurse sharks. Lastly, is the Wreck of the Saint George, a 240-foot freighter is great for more advanced divers to view a part of history!
As for activities back on land, I was able to take part in ziplining through the tropical rainforests that surround Bayahibe. Not only, are the waters of Bayahibe flourishing with wildlife, but the forests are as well. While ziplining I couldn’t view the wildlife as much as I could hear it, so I decided to take a buggy expedition! Driving beside the River of Chavon, I was able to see a variety of native wildlife. The tour guide was especially helpful, providing the group with information throughout the trip.
The options for activities are nearly endless in Bayahibe, of the Southeastern Dominican Republic. This trip yet again, was one to never forget!
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