Cultural Tours Worldwide : Spiritual Rituals of the Ju/haosi Bushmen in Botswana
Team up with Uncharted Africa Safari Co. and head into the bush, to the “cradle of civilization” for the Bushmen Initiation Safari. Guests will have the opportunity to witness and participate in fascinating (and rapidly disappearing) Bushmen spiritual rituals carried out just as they have been for nearly 30,000 years. This adventure of a lifetime consists of eight nights with the Ju/hoasi people as the young men in the tribe attempt to make the transition to manhood, demonstrating their survival skills and animal tracking abilities. Expert outdoorsman and Uncharted founder Ralph Bousfield will personally accompany guests on this journey to serve as a guide.
Uncharted Africa captures the spirit of Ralph’s legendary father and pioneering African adventurer Jack Bousfield, realizing Jack’s vision of bringing travelers to the otherworldly Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in Botswana. It is one of the last truly traditional safari operations in all of Africa, and home to the famous Makgadikgadi meerkats.
Uncharted Founder Ralph Bousfield with the Ju/hoasi Bushmen
A Trip to Wine Country in Hermann, Missouri—Dine, Wine, and Rhine Too
After a long drive, on May 19, 2011, Maralyn and I reached our central Missouri destination of Hermann. At our B&B, Hermann Hill Vineyard and Inn, when we entered our room and looked out, we were stunned by the scenic world below us. Even though we were two stories below the main floor of the Inn, we were still on top of a mountain sloping through vineyards to the valley.Our view of the Missouri River below us was incredibly majestic. I thought of several folksongs that included in their lyrics, “Across the Wide Missouri.” Although river levels were high at this time of year, the water seemed peaceful and nowhere near the flood stages that were plaguing other rivers and parts of the state and country.
In the 1830s and other times, Hermann was settled by German immigrants. One can imagine how these sites, by the river and hills above it, must have reminded them of their recent German Rhineland homes. When they tested the soil, many saw that it was also conducive to growing wine, just as in Europe.
These immigrants put their wine-growing expertise to good use. Production of grapes grew steadily each decade. By the 20th century, right at the start of Prohibition, Missouri had become the second largest producer of U.S. wine. Storytellers say the streets appeared to flow like blood, as the barrels of wine were slit. This temporary end for the wine industry was a serious blow to the economy of central Missouri. Some cellars of wineries, out of desperation, grew mushrooms, which hardly served as a financial equivalent.
Today, even though California is by far the country’s top wine producer, Missouri has resumed a respectable place among our wine-growing states.
Our room at the Herman Hill Inn was well appointed, one of eight on the premises. We made good use of our Jacuzzi tub, which was quite large and inviting. Waking up in the morning and gazing over vines that produce the grapes for Stone Hill Winery’s port was stunning. A member of “Select Registry,” the Inn more than measured up to the standards we expected.
Breakfasts at the B&B were delicious, with generous portions. The Inn provides six delicious selections. I enjoyed the signature French toast with a pecan caramel topping, and Maralyn savored the cheese strata with mushrooms. On the second day, we made use of an early serving of a continental breakfast with a parfait and fresh fruit, to aid in an early drive.
Each night, the B&B staff brought an excellent dessert to our rooms, composed of homemade cookies and ice cream with its own raspberry chocolate topping.
The Inn has a three-mile walking trail map or directions to walk to several vineyards. In-room massages are also available. Herman Hill has a large repeat business and it is easy to understand the draw.
The town of Hermann is close to the Inn and right on the Missouri River. Many buildings have been restored, so that the inner town has a charming, quaint atmosphere. We visited award winning Ricky’s Chocolate Box and I enjoyed a truffle, while Maralyn opted for what she says was the best pecan turtle she ever tasted. It was difficult to choose our chocolate indulgences. Later, we toured an old hotel, which was in process of being restored. Hermann has extensive antique shopping, housed in traditional old buildings.
Hermann Hill also has twelve Riverbluff Cottages, similar to condos, on the edge of town and the river. They are fully equipped and work exceptionally well for corporate retreats, as they have a conference facility next door. Breakfasts and evening snacks are stored in each unit’s refrigerator.
In keeping with the close-by river atmosphere, we both had catfish sandwiches for lunch in a local hangout, Simon’s on the Waterfront.
On our second evening, we visited the nearby Vintage Restaurant, located at the Stone Hill Winery. This winery is the oldest in the state, founded in 1847 and one of the largest, shipping 1.25 million gallons of wine annually by 1900. When touring the winery, it becomes obvious how old world techniques are combined with new technology. During Prohibition of the 1920s, its extensive arched underground cellars, known to be the largest in America, provided some of the mushrooms mentioned above.
In 1965, Stone Hill Winery was purchased by Jim and Betty Held, who undertook its restoration. Since 1993, the winemaking team of David Johnson, Shaun Tumbull, and Travis Harris has received more than 3,600 awards and international acclaim.
The Vintage Restaurant itself provides a charming old German ambiance. My choice was Sauerbraten and Maralyn’s was German-style schnitzel, along with some Stone Hill Dry Vignoles (veen-yoole), a full-bodied white wine. Even with a hint of sweetness, its acidity provided a dry palate effect.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Hermann Hill and our tour of the Hermann, Missouri area. Although Maralyn and I are both originally from the Midwest, our eyes were opened by how much central Missouri has to offer. We could easily spend three nights in Hermann on a return visit.
…..
Freelance travel writer Norman E. Hill, is a member of the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association. Norm focuses on travel, history, culture, and an appreciation of food.
Website & Email: NoraLyn, IFWTWA Profile, NHill@NoraLyn.com
What to Do in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: Lincoln’s Lost Treasure, Interactive Day Tour
Lincoln’s Lost Treasure: An exciting day tour for children, families, or anyone who wants an extra dose of entertainment while experiencing the battlefields at Gettysburg.
“It felt like it was real” - Natalie From NJ
Part Theater, Part Adventure, Part Mystery. The streets of Gettysburg serve as a backdrop for our unique story, told with elements of Improv theatre and scavenger hunt. Put on your sleuthing gear, as Gettysburg becomes a road-map to fun, laughter and suspense. Hired by a wealthy eccentric entrepreneur, you are thrust into a mission that puts you in the center of a quest to uncover the secret treasure Lincoln left behind.
Lincoln’s Lost Treasure is a live two and a half hour adventure through the streets of historic Downtown Gettysburg. Almost like stepping into your own action movie, individuals or groups of up to 6 or 8 people are sent on a thrilling and entertaining quest to uncover a lost secret sparked by President Lincoln’s final breath. Aided by a few historical artifacts and LIVE cast members, you are sent off to piece together hidden clues that can unravel the location to treasury gold that has been lost for over a century. Encountering eccentric and engaging cast members, decoding cryptic clues, and dodging FBI agents out to foil your mission, you and friends traverse the city’s famous streets, hidden shops and historical landmarks discovering that Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address holds the key to a national treasure.
For tickets, call 1-800-838-3006 or visit us online at LincolnsLostTreasure.com.
“Lincoln’s Lost Treasure was a most awesome experience in Gettysburg this past Sunday (June 20, 2010). It was a diversion from all the battle-themed exhibits, into the world of espionage and adventure, with a large dose of comic relief. We even got off of the beaten path a little, and into some shops that we probably wouldn’t have visited if we hadn’t been on our hunt for the Lost Treasure. From the very first moment until the mystery was solved, we were entertained and enthralled. Ours was a group of 6, ranging in age from 8 to 66…and we all enjoyed it! We recommend it to anyone who is looking for something out of the ordinary and fun during their visit to Gettysburg. Take your walking shoes, your sense of adventure and be ready for whatever comes next! Thanks to the developers and all of the folks that we met ‘along the way’ for a great time!” - Jean ,Ohio
..
Additional Information
Call for Reservations and Meeting Location
Price: $29.22 – $38.95
Order On-line or Call our Box Office 24/7 at 1-800-838-3006
Discounts for 2011! Buy 1 Ticket Get 2nd Ticket Half Price (Save $19.48)
When: Sundays: Every 45 minutes, 12:00 noon – 3:00 pm | Tours run June 6th through October 31
Events: Lincoln’s Lost Treasure Adventure, Scavenger Hunt
Add Lincoln’s Lost Treasure to My Gettysburg Trip
Contact Information
Address: Gettysburg, PA 17325 Find on Google™ Maps
Phone:1-800-838-3006
Email: info@lincolnslosttreasure.com
Website: http://www.lincolnslosttreasure.com
The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa in Mauritius
The ultimate tropical island retreat, offering the ultimate in 5-star hotel creature comforts
Entrance to Domaine des Alizées
In the heart of Mauritius, just outside the centre of idyllic Grand Baie, lies a magical tropical paradise: the new home of The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa. Just 5 minutes away from the beach, and surrounded by crystal clear blue lagoons, this prestigious development is set to be the jewel Seeff Mauritius’ crown.
The luxurious retreat is currently being developed into a prestigious resort comprising of luxury apartments which are offered for sale; giving you the opportunity to own your very own piece of paradise to escape to whenever you feel the need for rest and relaxation. The resort will offer a number of services ranging from its very own club lounge with its wonderful felted atmosphere, to the magnificent tropical spa offering a selection of exquisite treatments. There is also a restaurant on the water’s edge offering a wide range of exotic cuisine utilizing European, Japanese, Indian & Chinese influences. It will also have a state of the art fitness centre and several swimming pools and water sources including a lap pool.
The developer conceptualized and styled this contemporary development as a truly exotic retreat using traditional thatches and natural woods, resulting in a peaceful yet opulent architectural structure set amongst tropical coconut palms and the resort’s numerous water sources scattered in the gardens. It’s the perfect setting to escape to, enticing you to relax and unwind in sheer luxury.
The 90 apartments, consisting of 2 and 3 bedrooms, have been exquisitely interior designed using only the finest fixtures and fittings. The units are available as furnished, using stylish, contemporary furniture pieces, or without, giving owners the option to style their apartment according to their own unique taste.
The residence will be run like a prestigious hotel offering a level of incomparable service which will benefit permanent residents as well as visitors renting the apartments. The developer will be assigned the responsibility of overseeing the rental management of the apartments (should the owners choose that), assuring their owners a substantial rental income during the periods that they are not occupying the premises themselves.
Location is everything for property investors which is why The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa has been built just outside the centre of Grand Baie, the most renowned seaside village on the island. The Bay is the epicentre of this quaint tourist village; it harbours a number of boats ranging from simple fishing boats to the more sophisticated sailing ships. A small anchorage allows fishmongers to sell fresh fish on the beach every afternoon for residence to enjoy. Grand Baie offers a variety of upmarket cafes, idyllic restaurants, relaxing bars and fashionable boutiques as well as a convenient supermarket which sells a selection of imported products mainly from Europe and South Africa. One of Grand Baie’s most prestigious beaches, Mont Choisy, is also only a stones throw away, making The Domaine des Alizées ideally located in a superb part of Mauritius.
Seeff Mauritius was launched in September 2005 and has successfully grown into a leading real estate agency on the Island with three offices in key locations; Grand Baie, Black River and Floreal. Seeff Mauritius are proud to offer these exquisite apartments for sale as ‘off plan’, giving buyers the benefit of a great investment opportunity early on in the development. Due for completion at the end of 2011, the benefit of buying early is obvious making The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa the ideal lifestyle and financial investment and placing it at the forefront of Seeff Mauritius’s stunning portfolio.
The Domaine des Alizées Club & Spa
211, Grand Baie Business Park, Grand Baie, Mauritius
Phone: (230) 269 18 00 | Fax: (230) 269 18 01
..
Dylan Thomas Walking Tour of Greenwich Village, New York
Written by Peter Thabit Jones and Aeronwy Thomas, daughter of Dylan Thomas
“At poor peace I sing
To you, strangers”
from Prologue
This is a self-guided walking tour of ten places in Greenwich Village that are connected with the Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, who visited and stayed in New York City while on four reading tours of North America between 1950 and 1953. The tour is designed to provide you with a strong sense of the real man behind the “brassy orator” with “the lovely gift of the gab,” as well as giving you a feel for Greenwich Village of the 1950s. We hope that you will find the walk both pleasurable and informative. Please follow the directions on this map. The tour will take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.
To read the full itinerary of the Dylan Thomas Walking Tour in Greenwhich Village, visit Literary Tours Worldwide.
Map of Greenwich Village showing route of Dylan Thomas walking tour (Click Map to Enlarge)
