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It’s A Theme Park Wonderland In Southern California USA

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Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin Ride At Toontown

Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin Ride At Mickey’s Toontown At Disneyland What child doesn’t enjoy all the adventures of Toontown. Mickey is everywhere and he is on hand to welcome you to Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland, In Southern California USA. Toontown is a theme park with the craziest architecture with unique and fascinating sculptures. Many of your old favorites call toontown home, like Minnie and of course Mickey himself is ready to welcome you to his home. There is lots to do, as you climb the crazy structures and ride the unique rides. If you are ready for a crazy adventure, join us in Toontown at Disney California USA.

 

“It’s The Season Of The Force”

Star Wars In Tomorrowland At Disneyland

Tomorrowland is a glimpse of the future today. Get ready to greet Star Wars, as you are greated by “the Force.”

A Christmas Fantasy Parade

At Disneyland there is always a reason for a parade, no matter the season. Here we see Mickey leading the way in Disneyland California USA.

 Which one do I choose? 

At Hollywood Pictures Backlot in Disneyland California USA

  Grizzly Peak Rafting Adventure At Disney

If you yearn for a white water adventure, then  Disney’s California Grizzly Mountain is waiting to add some old fashioned water rafting experiences to your day.

 LEGOLAND Water Park Fun In Carlsbad, Southern California USA 

Calling all Lego fans……It is time for a Legoland Adventure. The above picture shows the water park that is a favorite of the under 12 age group. With some sections really shallow for the tots, and others deeper for the older children, it is a perfect spot for the family to have a fun day in the water.

 LEGO Legends Of CHIMA Water Park In Carlsbad, California USA

While one side was themed with all the regular Legoland themes, this side is spiced up with slides, lions, crocodiles,  and many other talking beasts. You’ll find all your Chima friends here at the Chima Water Park.

  The Journey to Atlantis 

The journey to Atlantis has arrived at Sea World San Diego Southern California USA. Climb aboard this unique and fun water coaster and let the fun begin at Sea World in San Diego.

Welcome To Sea World In San Diego California USA

 Anaheim California Is Magical

Anaheim is one of those places where everywhere you look there is excitement in the air. Anaheim is home to Disney California Adventure Park, Knots Berry Farm, Jungle Cruise,Disneyland,Adventure City, Six Flags, and many other smaller but unique parks. Southern California often seems like an endless supply of theme parks. Some of the worlds best are between Anaheim and San Diego. Anaheim, Santa Clarita, and Los Angeles all have major Six Flags Amusement Parks. Universal Studios Hollywood is a film studio and theme park in Los Angeles county. San Diego has Sea World with it’s fantastic Marine Animal Park, Amusement Park, and Water Park. San Diego is one of those magical cities where there is adventure at every turn. There is lots of fun in the sun in San Diego.

No matter where you go in Southern California, excitement and adventure are waiting. So come on out and get some of the beautiful California Sunshine, while you explore the many exciting adventures waiting for you in Suthern California USA.

 

 

 

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Indulging In The Delicacies Of Taiwan And The Philippines

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Truffle Xiao Long Bao Soup Dumplings 

Truffle Xiao Long Bao Soup Dumplings are an mixture of minced pork and truffles at Din Tai Fung Restaurant  in Taiwan. Din Tai Fung opened in 1958 as a retail shop for cooking oil. It became a restaurant in 1972. It specializes in soup dumplings and noodles.  They have sense become an international restaurant with locations all over the world.

Fresh Oysters Are Plentiful At Liuhe Night Market, Kaohsiung Taiwan  

Taiwan has some of the most exciting street foods in all of Asia and definitely some of the best night markets, Oysters on a half shell are one of the favorite “little eats” in Taiwan.

Philippine Blue Swimming Crabs Are Local Crustaceans, Colorful And So Sweet!  

Crab delicacies are a rage in The Philippines, with this Blue local crab being a favorite.

Asparagus And Shrimp Soup 

Asparagus and Shrimp soup is “Fast, fresh and nutritious. “This is a  popular style soup in Taiwan. It seems like there are enough soups to eat out every night for a year and still not eat the same soup twice.

Fresh Hsinchu Rice Noodles 

Fresh Hsinchu Rice Noodles is a delicious staple in Taiwanese cuisine. Locals go to the morning market each morning and there is always fresh noodles. There is little packaged food in Taiwan, as everything is made fresh.

Chocolate Fondue Heaven  

Chocolate Fondue Heaven with fresh fruit at the Marriott Manila  in the Philippines is outstanding. You really don’t want to miss the awesome fondue when in the Philippines.

Bee Cheng Hiang Bakkwa  

Bee Cheng Hiang Bakkwa are sheets of spiced minced pork barbecued jerky. For those that like package jerky, you will not want to miss out on this fresh jerky.

Taiwanese Aboriginal Chicken Soup

 Can you name the ingredients?  This is a fresh soup with everything but the kitchen sink.

Baby Green Mangoes 小綠芒果 

These baby mangoes are soaked in a sugar syurp. This  is a popular sweet spring time snack in Taiwan.

Fresh Salted Fish Near The Mountains Of Taiwan

Salted Fish At Mabanai Indigenous Restaurant In Taitung, Taiwan.

These are just a few more of the delicious foods of Taiwan and The Philippines.  Are you ready for a food adventure?  If you are, then pack your bag and head on out to one of these two nations where food adventures are always in season.

 

 

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The Amazing Treasures Of Taipei Taiwan

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 Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall In Taipei Taiwan 

Here you can enjoy the arts of China, linger in the elegant rooms, and take in the beautiful Chinese architecture.  All this is surrounded by the magnificent gardens and green space.

 The National Theater At The  Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Is Located In 

The Heart Of Taipei City Taiwan 

 The Gate Of Great Piety In Taipei Taiwan 

The Path of Reverence connects with all the many gates.  The Gate of Great Piety is on the South side on  Ai Kuo   East Road.

 

 “Changing Of The Guard” Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall In Taipei Taiwan 

The Changing of the Guard is done on the hour from 10 AM till 4 PM daily. On Wednesdays it changes till 6 PM.  This is a beautiful experience and is rich in culture, showing a preciseness that reflects it’s Chinese Origins.

 Taipei 101 In Taiwan 

 Taipei 101 in Taiwan, has the Worlds fastest passenger elevator. It takes  just 37 seconds to arrive at the 89th floor. Wow!

 TWG Tea, The World’s Finest Luxury Tea Brand Inside Taipei 101 Taiwan 

The TWG store is one of many first class shops located in the Taipei 101. TWG is a world reknown brand which has only the highest quality teas.

 Front Lobby Of The Grand Hotel Taipei Taiwan 

The magnificent Grand Hotel Taipei Taiwan is a spectacular and stunning 5 star hotel. The Grand Hotel is located in the Zhongshan District of the city.  It’s stunning Classical Chinese architecture has all the amenities of any 5 star hotel. It is a major landmark in Taipei, Taiwan. The lobby is beautiful with it’s classical Chinese theme. The magnificent red lobby symbolizes prosperity, good luck, plenty, and happiness. Red symbolizes good luck throughout Asia.

 Golden Dragon! Grand Hotel Taipei Taiwan

The Golden Dragon Restaurant is a first class restaurant located inside The Grand Hotel Taipei Taiwan. The restaurant is a favorite of tourists and government dignitaries from all over the world.  The food is excellent and the service is outstanding. The restaurant is well known for it’s Cantonese specialties.

Hsing Tian Kong Temple In Taipei Taiwan  

This temple is devoted to guan yu, the god of businessmen. It is located on a street corner in the central part of the city.

These are only a few of the amazing places you can see on a Taipei adventure. Taipei stands among all the quality cities of the world, with it’s 5 star hotels and quality restaurants, amazing monuments, and living history. So while in Taipei, take time to discover all the amazing places of culture.  This is the perfect start to any Taiwan adventure.

 

 

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Splendors And Discoveries Near Agas Agas Leyte Philippines

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Lost In The Jungles of Agas Agas Leyte 

The jungle of Agas Agas Leyte are fun and inviting. Why not grab your backpack and your camera and lets go jungle trekking. The jungle has so many different animals and birds calling out to each other. It can really be, a very noisy paradise.  Just think of all the different parrots out there calling out to each other.

 The Philippine Sailfin Crested Lizard Living Only In The Philippine Jungle  

This little fellow is only found in the Philippine Jungle. His markings and colors are extraordinary!

 Lake Kasudsuran In The Mountains Of Ormoc Philippines 

Lake Kasudsuran is one of many lakes hidden away in the jungle landscape.  This is one of the many jewels found on the island of Leyte. The lake is calm and beautiful. Many come here to spend a quiet day painting or sketching, while others come to play on her shores. Mount Pananguan is near by, providing awesome hiking for those who desire. Boats are rented and it is a favorite place to venture out onto the calm water of the lake.

 Brothers Work And Play With Their Carabao Water Buffalo In The Philippines  

As you approach different villages, you will see these magnificent water buffalo at work or play.  Life never stands still in the jungle.

 Canigao Is An Uninhabited Island Surrounded By The Camotes Sea In Leyte Philippines 

Canigao Island  is best known for it’s abundant fishing grounds. The beautiful coral reefs are a perfect diving spot. This area draws divers from around the world. During different times of the year, this is the destination for fun beach getaways and overnight stays on the beach. The crystal blue waters are always inviting!

 White Sand Beaches Of Canigao Island

 Abundant Under The Sea Coral Gardens At Panaon Island in Leyte Philippines 

Another one of the perfect islands of the Leyte. If you have come to dive, you will fall in love with Panaon Island.

The many islands that make up Leyte are inviting and full of magical adventures just waiting for you to discover. Tropical weather is always a welcome change from winter back home and is the perfect time to grab your backpack , camera, and your passport. Are you ready for a Philippine adventure?

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

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Discovering The Mystery And Beauty Of Taiwan

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 Entering Into The Mystery And Beauty Of Taiwan

Are you ready to discover an island filled with surprises, natural mysteries, and unique experiences? If you are, then come along as we discover, the many sounds and colors of Taiwan.

 The scenic and tranquil area of Lotus Lake in Kaohsiung Taiwan   

Lotus Lake, a man made lake, is on the east side of Zuoying District in the city of Kaohsiung. The lake is a favorite with visitors who enjoy all the many unique temples, and pagodas. If that was not enough,  the lake is full of Lotus blooms.  The aroma of lotus blooms is everywhere.

 Chi Ming Palace 郗醚嗯宮 

Chi Ming Palace 郗醚嗯宮 is bursting with spectacular colors on Lotus Lake in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.  The use of color is spectacular and unique, setting the pace for the many mysterious ways that color is used around the lake.

 Dragon over Wuli Pavilion at Lotus Pond  

The Wuli Pavilion is a symbol of good luck and prosperity. This ornate pavilion is just one of many unique pavilions and temples on the lake.

 Up Close View Of The Fine Details Of The Wuli Pavilion

The fine details, the amazing use of color, and the peacefulness of the lake, make this the perfect place for those who just need to relax and enjoy the world around them.

 Taiwan’s Formosan Rock Macaque is the only monkey native to Taiwan

No island adventure is complete without an encounter with this pesky monkey. Keep a watchful eye on your camera and your lunch!

Store Shelves Filled With Taiwanese Comfort Foods And Bricks Of Sweet Tea

Ancient Wax Gourd,  Winter Melon tea bricks, and local rice and beans are perfect comfort foods in Taiwan.   If you enjoy tea, be sure to try the Winter Melon Tea. These tea bricks also make awesome gifts for those who love a quality tea back home.

 Stir Fried Eggplant 

The perfect end to any adventure on Lotus Lake is a quality dinner at one of the many local restaurants. The above photo shows the quality of Taiwan’s local specialties.

If you are ready for a spectacular adventure, then it is time to book your next Taiwan exploration. Lotus Lake is a perfect place for those who love the mysteries and beauty of Taiwan.

 

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

 and discover that the world is full of wonderful people.” – ExploreTraveler

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Elegant Church Architecture Throughout The World

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 De Nieuwe Kerk A 15th-Century Catholic Church In Amsterdam Netherlands 

This very ornate Gothic Church was consecrated in 1409. It was located on Dam Square, next to the magnificent Royal Palace. It was of the highest Catholic Order and  devoted to Our Lady.

 St.Peter’s Church With Unique Brabantine Medieval Architecture In Leuven Belgium 

Saint Peter’s is located in Leuven, Belgium in the cit’s main market square, grote Markt. It is directly accross from the Town Hall in the square. It was built in a Brabantine Gothic Architecture. Saint Peter’s has a low bell tower that was never finished.

Chapel Of The Angels At The Shepherds Field Near Bethlehem Israel

Chapel of the Angels is built on the traditional place where an angel announced the birth of the Savior to some shepherds who were keeping their sheep in the open fields near Bethlehem.  One might notice the simple dome shape of the roof of the church. This is seen throughout the Middle East in buildings of faith in general.

The Church Of The Annunciation in Nazareth Israel

The Church Of The Annunciation in Nazareth is at the traditional site of the place where the Annunciation by an Angel to Mary is believed to have happened. The Church Of The Annunciation also has the dome shape, though it is a slightly more elaborate styling.

The Cathedral Of  Sé de Lisboa In Lisbon Portugal

Sé de Lisboa was commissioned in 1147 by Afonso I, the fist King of Portugal. Sé de Lisboa is the oldest church in Lisbon and is dedicated to Santa Maria. It is the most important church in the city of Lisbon.

Church Of San Isidro In The Zuni Mountains Of New Mexico

This simple adobe mission from the 19th century is a good representation of Spanish architecture of the time in New Mexico. Located in the Zuni Mountains of West-Central New Mexico, the Church of San Isidro is beautiful with it’s simple style of the day.

 Mong Kok Christian Center In Hong Kong

Mong Kok Christian Center is busy preaching the good news in Hong Kong. Another example of simple beauty, this time in the Asian world.

All over the world the good news is shared in churches, homes, or wherever people may gather. The message is the same, only the languages and culture may differ. These are just a few of the churches we saw among the many buildings throughout our travels.  These show how the culture of an area influences the architecture, as well as the time in history the building was built. As you travel through different countries, you will see many buildings of different faiths. It is always interesting to see and admire the architecture of an area.

 

 

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The Unique And The Unusual Tastes of Asia

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Bamboo Charcoal Noodles A Unique Taste In Taiwan

These black noodles are black due to the charcoal of the bamboo. Known to have over 400 different minerals, they are believed to have hundreds of health benefits. Bamboo Charcoal that is activated is thought to draw impurities from the skin and help with severe acne.

 Dried Cuttlefish Snacks At The Coastal Markets In Keelung Taiwan 

The Cuttlefish is dried and shredded for snacks. Squid is also is often substituted in making dried fish snacks.

 Blue Mackerel Sautéed In Spicy Vinegar, A Good Taste Of Taiwan

While it may seem unusual to use a spicy vinegar to saute Blue Mackerel, but it is really is a delicious way of cooking fish. There are several ways of cooking this specialty, but all use vinegar, garlic , and usually lime.

The Rich Food Culture Of The Hakka Aborigines In Northern Taiwan 

The tastes of the Hakka are unique and very different but delicious. The Aborigines have centuries of experience in this unique but tasty style of cooking.

 

 Hot, Healthy And Spicy BBQ  Ell Is A Favorite In Taiwan and Japan

While Ell seems too strange to some, to others it is better than a good cut of beef.

Tea And Buddha’s Hand Citron Is  A Perfect Way To Start The Day

Buddha’s Hand is like a the perfect citron. It’s sweet lemon blossom aroma fills the air. This is a breakfast to remember!

 “Taiwan’s Black Fungus Mushroom” ~ Perfect With Your Morning Eggs!

Thought to have  many health benefits from preventing cancer to losing weight, this is added to everything. Who can help but love a mushroom with all these health benefits.

Sometimes The Important Thing Is Just To Get The Perfect Grasshopper

Grasshoppers on a stick are a delight in Taiwan and throughout the Asian world of food! Are you ready for a snack.

Throughout the world eating habits change. Some delicacies are just different, but they are not bad. So as you travel through the world, take a chance and taste and see what each region has to offer. Today is the day to reach out and embrace the unknown, to try something you have never tried. This is the day for an Asian food adventure.

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

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Explore Traveler Photo Tour: Exploring The Uniqueness Of Japan

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 Natto Fermented Soybeans And Umeboshi Pickled Fruits Are Tasty Health Foods In Japan 

Natto is an extremely good protein food, as it has gone through a ridged fermentation process. Nato appears to be very good at preventing bone loss in post menopausal women. It is high in vitamin K2. It is also desired for it’s health benefits to the skin.

Ume is a fruit that is often thought to be a plum, but it is closer to apricots really. Umeboshi are like pickles that are sweet and salty. There is also one recipe that is sweet due to its use of honey. They are extremely good!

 The Many Wild And Unusual Flavors Of  The Kit Kat Bar In Japan 

There are more than 200 different kinds of Kit Kat Bars in Japan. If you can think of a flavor, then it is probably there. Some that come to mind are Baked Potato, Matcha-Green Tea, Blueberry Cheese Cake and Strawberry Cheese cake. What is your favorite Kit Kat?

Arriving At The Maihama Station At Disney Land From Tokyo Metro.

 The Magic Kingdom Monorail At The Disney Resort In Japan 

 The Magic Of Disney In Tokyo Japan 

 Peaceful Beauty Of Chivoda In Central Tokyo Japan 

Chivoda, also called Chivoda City,  is a ward in the central part of the city of Tokyo that is made up of the Imperial Palace and surrounding area. It is a very peaceful area with green spaces and a small pond.

 The Unique Experience Of The Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo Japan 

The Tsukiji Fish Market is the largest wholesale fish and seafood market worldwide. It is also the largest wholesale food market worldwide. There is also a retail section adjacent to the wholesale market. If you want to observe the wholesale market, there are limited time slots and only a few people can enter each morning. Check the market website for details.

 “One Fishcake Please” At The Tsukiji Fish Market Retail Section In Tokyo Japan 

Shopping At The Tsukiji Retail Market (築地市場) In Tokyo Japan 

 Barrels Of Sake Made From Fermented Rice And Wrapped In Straw At The Meiji Jingu Shrine

Small Japanese shrines are supplied by local sake companies, but Meiji Jingu Shrine is a major shrine and thus receives donations form every sake company in the country. What a beautiful display of Sake outside containers!

Japanese  Shrine Maiden at Meiji Jingu Shrine  

 Japanese Black Pines At Kokyo Gaien National Gardens In The Heart Of Tokyo 

This magnificent garden must be passed through to reach the Imperial Palace. It is amazing to walk the many paths, viewing all the many spectacular Black Pine Trees in the park. There are more than 2,000 of these pines in this National Garden.

 The Tokyo Imperial Palace Is The Main Residence Of The Emperor And Empress Of Japan  

Tours of the Palace Gardens are offered Tuesday through Saturday. The Inner gardens are not open to the public except 2 days a year. The interior is not open to the public.

 A Fairy-tale Barbie Bridal In Japan 

One of the most popular theme weddings in Japan is Barbie. Every girl dreams  to have a Barbie themed wedding. Bridal shops all over the city have dresses and decorations for a beautiful Barbie styled wedding.

As our adventure in Japan comes to a close, we reflect on what we have seen. The extreme sense of peace as you walk through all the shrines and gardens lingers with you. Japan is a country that is both ancient and modern. No matter where you go, the two touch seamlessly.

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel 

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 © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved    

ExploreTraveler Presents: Exploring Jordan Via Photo Tour and Guide

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Photo of the Day ~ The Ancient Nabataean City Of Petra

From time to we like to group allot of articles on a single subject, and present them as a small guide. The title under the picture is a link to another post with additional information. Most of the photo’s within this guide are from an area centered around Petra, and the deserts that surround this site. We hope you enjoy this small tour from our own eyes, and just maybe we inspire you to go there for yourself.

In Southwest Jordan you will find an amazing desert, colorful, extremely hot, with rugged mountains and deep canyons. Amid all this natural beauty you will find the city of Petra, built during the time of the Nabataean Kingdom between 100 B.C. to 106 A.D. For years Petra was a major trading center and capital city of the empire of the Nabataean people. Then for centuries it lay in ruin, empty, and forgotten. The city was lost for centuries. Now this beautiful hidden city is a UNESCO World Heritage Center.

Photo of the Day ~ The Bedouin culture of Petra

The Nabataeans occupied Petra till the close of the Roman Empire. The Al B’doul tribe  is said to be among those descended from the Nabataeans, who built the city of Petra.  This Bedouin tribe, the Al B’doul, lived in Petra for more than 170 years. They built their lives among the tombs and caves, feeling a close attachment to the city. Some of the members of the tribe were relocated to a city built just for them near-by. Others in this tribe still lives in the ancient valley, clinging to traditional Bedouin life.

Photo of the Day ~ Crossing the Red Sea in Aqaba, Jordan

To visit the Red Sea at Aqaba, Jordan is a compelling inner drive. Many pass Aqaba by, but here you will find water that is calm and crystal clear. It seems like you can see forever. The Red Sea is a thriving sea with a large variety of amazing marine life. This is a world class snorkeling site. If you enjoy marine life, spend a few hours snorkeling at the Red Sea,  Jordan’s only beach.

Photo of the Day ~ Exploring the desert valley of Wadi Rum

Embark on the adventure of a life time exploring the Valley Of The Moon. At times you can rightfully ask if you are still on planet earth. As you wander through this brutal but astonishing desert, you will see desert colors in the deep oranges. It looks like a freshly painted canvas, painted as only a master artist can do. Put on your sun hat, wrap your head  in a scarf, grab plenty of water,  and let’s explore this amazing and dramatic desert.

Photo of the Day ~ Timeless Splendor in the desert of Wadi Rum

These camels are valuable members of the Royal Desert Forces. The  Bedouins saddle up their camels on a regular basis to reach those areas of the desert that are too remote for trucks and 4 X 4’s to patrol. The camels are also often paraded around for tourists to enjoy. Anyone in the area that has a female camel that needs to be bred, may bring them by the Patrol Headquarters. This is a free service provided by the Royal Desert Forces for residents.

Photo of the Day ~ The Amazing Ruins Of The Greco-Roman City Of Gerasa

At Jerash the first thing you note is the condition of the ruins. What a marvelous site. The city of Gerasa was also called Antioch and is found in the North of Jordan.  This magnificent site shows the quality of the city. It is indeed the best of the Roman ruins we have seen outside of Italy.  You will find the ancient city among green hills and valleys filled with olive, plum, fig, and other fruit trees.

Wadi Rum….Timeless Splendor

Wadi Rum Desert landscapes, where the deep red rocks seem to protrude seamlessly into the dark blue sky. It is a land of fascinating landscapes and timeless treasures. Known as the Valley of the Moon, this amazing valley is cut into the beautiful red sandstone and granite. Timeless splendor, level headed people, and amazing shades of Autumn greet you on your desert exploration.

Photo of the Day ~ Beautiful Jordanian Sunset

Photo of the Day ~ The Lost City Of Petra In Jordan

Deep in the rugged pink sandstone hills, surrounding one of the harshest deserts in the world, you will find one of the Jewels of the ancient world. Welcome to Jordan and the unique city of Petra.

Photo of the Day ~ Adventuring Into The Wadi Rum Desert Of Jordan

This astonishing Red Desert is surrounded by amazing red sandstone mountains and made complete with amazing canyons. Walking through the desert you will see nothing until you come upon a tent of friendly Bedouins inviting you to join them for tea.

Deserts Comes To Life With Tea

The Deserts springs to life, as tea is served. Have you ever considered exploring some of the hottest deserts in the world? How about taking a break and having tea under a goat haired tent in the desert? Have you ever thought that it would be refreshing and make you cooler?

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Part One

This is the magnificent entrance into the city of Petra, where history, ancient stories, folklore, and archaeology all come together in an ancient city, clothed in mystery. The entrance, designed by nature, is narrow and provided security and safety for an ancient people. You have just traveled through the awe-inspiring Valley Of Moses, looking at the amazing mountains of rose, red, and white sandstone, beholding the shadows of the mountains across the desert and then you come to the gateway of this mysterious city, the narrow and magnificent siq. If you look at the photo above, you will see just how enormously tall this entrance is, as both humans and animals appear to be quite small at it’s base.

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Part 2

The sandstone hills hold mysteries over 2000 years old. Mysteries of the fortress built by the Nabatacans.  It seemed like nothing could ever touch it. The shadows of the towering ziq envelope you as you make your way through this mile long winding path and into the city. The first thing you see is the facade of the Treasury. The Treasury was most likely a temple built to the many gods of this enormous civilization. But if you let your eyes feast to either side of this first building, with all it’s grandeur, you will see the many carved quarters and caves that are intricately carved into these amazing sandstone cliffs.

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Part 3

The spectacular amphitheater in Petra is amazing in it size, seating between 6,000-8,000 people. Can you imagine the excitement of the crowd as they watched events in this massive amphitheater? The amphitheater was built previous to the time of the Roman occupation of Petra. This very unique theater was carved into the sandstone rocks.

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Part 4

Magnificent Boulders and cliffs of tinted sandstone greet you as you come near to the city. If you take time to look at the layers of reds, browns, oranges, and yellows of the rocks, cliffs,columns and the tombs themselves, you will be amazed. Because of the uniqueness of the sandstone cliffs that they are carved from, there are no two tombs or facades exactly the same.

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Conclusion

As our five part Petra adventure comes to a close, we take time to look at the upper levels of the Al-Khazneh or The Treasury. Here the mysteries of the lost city grow as we wonder just what this magnificent building carved out of the sandstone cliffs was used for. Most seem to favor that it was some type of a temple for the many gods of Petra after the many invaders of Rome took control, but there is also the theory that in the beginning it was an elaborate tomb.

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A Winter Wonderland In Northern Maine USA

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 A Snow Filled Winter In The Baskahegan Valley In Northern Maine  

The early pioneer families that settled in this beautiful valley would farm in the summer months, saving produce for the long winter months. During the winter months, the men took to  the forest and logging was their passion. One of the favorite trees for this endeavor was the Pumpkin Pines, which were easy to haul since they were close to the streams and other waterways. Old diaries talk about the stumps being so large that a team of Oxen could stand on the stump. At one time, Northern Maine was the logging capital of the world.

With the easy supply of lumber, you will see many beautiful mansions in Northern Maine. Take a winter tour in a horse driven buggy and see all the beautiful houses as they lay buried in the white stuff.  Just outside of the towns are resorts with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and other winter sports. Take time to enjoy winter like never before.

 Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge In Maine Is One Of The Northernmost National Wildlife Refuges On The Atlantic  Seaboard

Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge has activities year around. There are year around Moose Tours, where you are guaranteed to see a moose, fishing tours, ice fishing trips, hunting in the different seasons, hiking, climbing, wildlife viewing and photography. As the ponds ice over, there is ice skating, as well as near by resorts with a full range of winter activities. If you have never been in an area where you could enjoy winter to the max, you are in for many surprises.

This is a main refuge for migrating birds of all kinds. Here, they are able to feed and nest in a protected area. During different times of the year, you will see birds of prey, waterfowl,song birds and many others. If you enjoy bird watching, this is an excellent place for a bird adventure.

 The Elegant Patterns Of Ice Crystals Are A Growing Masterpiece On Glass  

Can you imagine waking up and looking out the window and seeing ice crystal masterpieces that formed on the window over night? What a delight to see the creative talent of nature. If you have never seen this, you are in for a surprise.

 Fried Haddock  Fish Sandwich Is A Year Around Favorite In Maine 

In Maine, fish sandwiches made from fresh fried Haddock is a favorite. Most eateries in the area serve this state favorite. If you have never tried one, then this is the time to order a fish sandwich made of freshly prepared Haddock. Spring, summer, fall, and winter, this is a must try when you come to Maine.

All the different seasons bring their own delightful activities in Maine. But if you want to enjoy a short winter visit, you can not find a better place than Maine.

 

 

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

 and discover that the world is full of wonderful people.” – ExploreTraveler

 @exploretraveler

We have a travel tip audio book that you can purchase at Audible –> Here

Happy Travels, 

ExploreTraveler.com 

 © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved