Photo Courtesy - Tommy Shultz
Sunday, October 02, 2005
SIQUIJOR HAS ARRIVED!
SIQUIJOR HAS ARRIVED! Siquijor is of course NOT anywhere near the waters of the Caribbean. Siquijor is an island yes, amidst the beautiful islands of the Philippines. Yes. There were Pirates there too. Siquijor was believed to have risen out of the ocean in a display of thunder and lightening to form a land area masked with mysteries, including unusual religious practices, different, yet parallel to such magical (black art) of the way off Caribbean Islands. Not the same, but mysterious and secret practice where many feared this unknown way of life. It certainly kept inquisitive people away over the years. As the legends spread throughout the islands of the Philippines and South East Asia, Siquijor carried with it the mystery that in part remains today. There are those still who believe the Island is, shall we say, mystical.
The island is famous for manqkukulam, healers and sorcerers who could cast maleficent spells. Enemy's took notice. Nobody wanted any black magic on their soul. There are numerous festivals on Siquijor one of which encompasses practitioners and healers who claim to possess magical powers that includes the gathering of live insects, various herbs all thrown into a cooking pot creating magical potions and spells are recited amidst the boiling concoctive. Check out the Islands festival schedules. You will have a wonderful time on Siquijor. The island is also a great DIVE Island with fantastic waters and great white sand beaches like the Salagdoong Beach, Tubod and others. Don't miss out on the caves. Oh the caves. Up in the mountains, perhaps a friend of a friend locally can whisper the secrets held in some of the lesser known caves. Try the Cave of Cantabon for one. Beautiful lakes too. Don't like ocean water all the time, then swim the lake of San Juan de Capilay. You won't be sorry.
Siquijor land area is approximately 343.50 sq. km. with about 6 incredible small towns. It is one of the smallest islands in the Philippines located in the Central Visayas. Close by is Negros Oriental and Dumaguette City. Also it is close to APO Island one of the world's most magnifient dive locations. Absolutely fabulous people with hearts of gold. So special is Siquijor, no matter where you are in the Philippines, with their many fantastic better known islands, it is worth spending the time to visit Siquijor. You may never want to leave. Great people. Great diving. Great beaches. Great and quaint resorts. Great seafood. A masterful mix of old time tourism.
Siquijor was called the Fire Island or Isla del Fuego. Named by the Spanish explorers, not because it had temples or dragons, or volcanoes but because of fire flies. Siquijor was originally known as Katugasan. TRAVELSAPIEN has no idea why. What is known is the early Spanish were awe struck at the millions of sparkling lights that danced over the island, not knowing at first they were bushels of fire flies drawn to the molave trees that were everywhere over the landscape. Like twinkling stars they lit up the night.
From it's beginning Siquijor has remained mysterious yet that same mystery draws your attention and curiosity. For those wishing something special, inexpensive, and a great life experience enjoy the opportunity. Siquijor has historical buildings too you will enjoy exploring but it is the mystical island itself that will seduce and charm you completely.
To keep up on events and peoples of Siquijor visit Gary Harrison's great site http://www.mysiquijor.com The newsletter is informative and a super source for current events on the Island. A special note of thanks for photo's that came from their gallery of photos of Siquijor as well as Tommy Schultz, who's photos are truly outstanding examples of what you will find when you visit the magical, mystical island of Siquijor. Check out Tommy's website at http://www.tommyschultz.com . Fantastic!
More to follow. SIQUIJOR An island to remember.
The island is famous for manqkukulam, healers and sorcerers who could cast maleficent spells. Enemy's took notice. Nobody wanted any black magic on their soul. There are numerous festivals on Siquijor one of which encompasses practitioners and healers who claim to possess magical powers that includes the gathering of live insects, various herbs all thrown into a cooking pot creating magical potions and spells are recited amidst the boiling concoctive. Check out the Islands festival schedules. You will have a wonderful time on Siquijor. The island is also a great DIVE Island with fantastic waters and great white sand beaches like the Salagdoong Beach, Tubod and others. Don't miss out on the caves. Oh the caves. Up in the mountains, perhaps a friend of a friend locally can whisper the secrets held in some of the lesser known caves. Try the Cave of Cantabon for one. Beautiful lakes too. Don't like ocean water all the time, then swim the lake of San Juan de Capilay. You won't be sorry.
Siquijor land area is approximately 343.50 sq. km. with about 6 incredible small towns. It is one of the smallest islands in the Philippines located in the Central Visayas. Close by is Negros Oriental and Dumaguette City. Also it is close to APO Island one of the world's most magnifient dive locations. Absolutely fabulous people with hearts of gold. So special is Siquijor, no matter where you are in the Philippines, with their many fantastic better known islands, it is worth spending the time to visit Siquijor. You may never want to leave. Great people. Great diving. Great beaches. Great and quaint resorts. Great seafood. A masterful mix of old time tourism.
Siquijor was called the Fire Island or Isla del Fuego. Named by the Spanish explorers, not because it had temples or dragons, or volcanoes but because of fire flies. Siquijor was originally known as Katugasan. TRAVELSAPIEN has no idea why. What is known is the early Spanish were awe struck at the millions of sparkling lights that danced over the island, not knowing at first they were bushels of fire flies drawn to the molave trees that were everywhere over the landscape. Like twinkling stars they lit up the night.
From it's beginning Siquijor has remained mysterious yet that same mystery draws your attention and curiosity. For those wishing something special, inexpensive, and a great life experience enjoy the opportunity. Siquijor has historical buildings too you will enjoy exploring but it is the mystical island itself that will seduce and charm you completely.
To keep up on events and peoples of Siquijor visit Gary Harrison's great site http://www.mysiquijor.com The newsletter is informative and a super source for current events on the Island. A special note of thanks for photo's that came from their gallery of photos of Siquijor as well as Tommy Schultz, who's photos are truly outstanding examples of what you will find when you visit the magical, mystical island of Siquijor. Check out Tommy's website at http://www.tommyschultz.com . Fantastic!
More to follow. SIQUIJOR An island to remember.
Friday, September 30, 2005
END OF MONTH - Time To Relax! Fall Is Upon Us!
So once again it is month end! Wow.
How time flys. Kick off those shoes. Have a glass of wine.
So to get ready for October it is again time for
the WEEBLS family to close off September.
Enjoy and thanks for your continued visits Travelers.
See you in the next day or two. Yes. Yes. Siquijor is coming!
Would TRAVELSAPIEN ever kid you?
http://www.weebls-stuff.com/toons/Hey+Demon/
Cheers. Next month is pretty soon. Some part of the world it may already be October 01/05
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Saturday, September 24, 2005
GRAVEYARD TOURS - ATTRACT TOURISTS!
CORPSE BRIDE a winner! One reason this animated movie is a box office hit is that many people love to scare themselves or worse enjoy the macabe. GRAVEYARD TOURS are highly popular around the world. Everyone has their own reasons for visiting them. Great Britain has always been popular due to the historical documentation and characters throughout history. Other country's do well too. Even America has caught on. PEOPLE LOVE GRAVEYARDS!
http://www.blackhart.uk.com
http://www.bronteguide.com
http://www.scaryplace.com
http://www.graveyards.com Chicago Graves of Note
http://magick.wirefire.com
AND if you really want to just scare yourself silly with horror and fear check into
http://www.sawneybean.com NOW if this keeps you awake all night don't blame TRAVELSAPIEN. Heck just being the messenger here.
FOR FUN take in the CORPSE BRIDE and check the URL on the photo INTRO. Just a great laugh, light hearted animated look at the odd and bizarre. Fun. To those Tourists that are looking for GRAVEYARDS around the world the opportunities are as varied as fine beaches. TRAVELSAPIEN is sticking to beaches. Yikes!
http://www.blackhart.uk.com
http://www.bronteguide.com
http://www.scaryplace.com
http://www.graveyards.com Chicago Graves of Note
http://magick.wirefire.com
AND if you really want to just scare yourself silly with horror and fear check into
http://www.sawneybean.com NOW if this keeps you awake all night don't blame TRAVELSAPIEN. Heck just being the messenger here.
FOR FUN take in the CORPSE BRIDE and check the URL on the photo INTRO. Just a great laugh, light hearted animated look at the odd and bizarre. Fun. To those Tourists that are looking for GRAVEYARDS around the world the opportunities are as varied as fine beaches. TRAVELSAPIEN is sticking to beaches. Yikes!
Friday, September 23, 2005
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Monday, September 19, 2005
PARIS - A Pig with lipstick?
Paris France has lost it's place in the sun with Paris Hilton taking main stage. When one thinks of Paris these days the thought is on what "she" is wearing or not, doing or not, and why anyone bothers anyway. It is not about France.
Paris France is old, jaded, a shell of it's former self. It is expensive, self centred, rude, arrogant, and truly living in it's former glory. Some even say it has become a "pig with lipstick" Charming, with it's roots showing. It is a reminder of Gloria Swanson in her Cameo looking for her "good side" as the camera came in close to frame her in the glaring lights.
TRAVELSAPIEN can't imagine it ever returning to it's former glory. Why? Well Parisians continue to live in their dreams, past glory, and, have allowed their tomorrow to borrow from old pockets of fame. There is always the contention they are at odds with England and are sorry losers of past conflicts. The food has also lost out to fusion and countless other NEW options. There is so many places in the world that rival anything Paris can conjure up. Just open up www.googletouring.com and get an example of the real world. It does NOT center around Paris.
Of course one should respect it's former glory, however, pushing it's current postition on unsuspecting visitors is little different than "Hawaiian" dancers that wear plastic skirts, beads, and, come from everywhere but Hawaii. Paris is a plastic mold of it's former life.
The world is changing. Paris is getting old, boring, a former shell of itself during the days when it sat with a small elite group of world cities as a MUST DO. If you miss it in your first years of World Traveling don't worry it will still be there as sorry as ever. Try the new or rejuvenated cities first. When Paris wakes up to realize it is less than second best perhaps their time will come again. As to Paris Hilton, it seems she remains the Paris of choice but think of her when she gets old. Or will you?
Paris France is old, jaded, a shell of it's former self. It is expensive, self centred, rude, arrogant, and truly living in it's former glory. Some even say it has become a "pig with lipstick" Charming, with it's roots showing. It is a reminder of Gloria Swanson in her Cameo looking for her "good side" as the camera came in close to frame her in the glaring lights.
TRAVELSAPIEN can't imagine it ever returning to it's former glory. Why? Well Parisians continue to live in their dreams, past glory, and, have allowed their tomorrow to borrow from old pockets of fame. There is always the contention they are at odds with England and are sorry losers of past conflicts. The food has also lost out to fusion and countless other NEW options. There is so many places in the world that rival anything Paris can conjure up. Just open up www.googletouring.com and get an example of the real world. It does NOT center around Paris.
Of course one should respect it's former glory, however, pushing it's current postition on unsuspecting visitors is little different than "Hawaiian" dancers that wear plastic skirts, beads, and, come from everywhere but Hawaii. Paris is a plastic mold of it's former life.
The world is changing. Paris is getting old, boring, a former shell of itself during the days when it sat with a small elite group of world cities as a MUST DO. If you miss it in your first years of World Traveling don't worry it will still be there as sorry as ever. Try the new or rejuvenated cities first. When Paris wakes up to realize it is less than second best perhaps their time will come again. As to Paris Hilton, it seems she remains the Paris of choice but think of her when she gets old. Or will you?
Sunday, September 18, 2005
BALI - Beach Pollution - UGLY TOURISM
Special Report - Beach Pollution muddies Bali's image.
TRAVELSAPIEN really gets antsy when Tourism becomes ugly. This report is not just about Bali, but numerous well known travel destinations around the world. The press and the Spin Doctors all compete to sell their magical destination for the illusive Tourist Dollar. Unfortunately the Tourist themselves become part of the problem in many cases. Is there such a thing as over Tourism? Sure is!
Eric Unmacht writes to www.monstersandcritics.com his story and it is worth the read.
Legian, Indonesia - When tourists go to a travel agent to book a tropical holiday they're likely to be handed glossy brochures of Bali's white-sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters.
That's why a recently leaked water quality report that put a question mark on it's reputation brought fierce reactin from government officials and businesses that depend on Bali's image as a tropical haven for overseas tourists.
"We operate the surf school next to a little river and it can bet pretty nasty in the rainy season, but generally the water's fine." said Jonni Morrison, a teacher at the Rip Curl School of Surf. "I can tell you five years ago it was a damn sght worse."
The report, which showed high levels of nutrient contaminants, as well as potentially dangerous heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, brought equal reaction from island residents convinced the ocean is being polluted by rapid development.
"It's very difficult to get a hold of good, efficient testing here, but have a look at a suburban drain or outlet in the States versus a suburban outlet here and see what it smells like," said Michael Ricos, a biologist and founder of Elia Environmental consulting company on Bali.
"The problem is we're getting RAW SEWAGE overflows, as well as vastly untreated amounts of high-nutrient rich water being let out into the ocean," he said. "That's a big problem."
Those who think any dispute involving water pollution can be easily solved bysimple, objective testing have only to look on the other side of the Indonesian archipelago at the ongoing battle between the government and the U.S. mining giant Newmont.
The company has been locked in a fierce public relations bttle with the government after being accused of polluting the waters of Sulawesi Island, with both the government and Newmont claiming to hold test results that contradict each other.
In the case of Bali, whose lifeline depends on its image as a tropical paradise, even after results showed some chemicals far above government-set limits for swimming and recreation, the head of the island's environmental agency insisted the water was safe.
"We test twice a year, in the rainy season and the dry season, and all the paramenters are under the limit," Ni Wayan Sudji said, "The sea in Bali is safe and good for swimming. Seven of our nine regencies have won awards from the national government."
Experts say that one reason for the government's apparent lack of concern about the test results is the subjective nature of their interpretation.
Luka Adhyakso, a toxicologist who works with the World Wildlife Fund in Jakarta said that, althought above limits, the contaminants found in the waters of some of Bali's most popular tourist beaches weren't seriously harmful for swimmers.
Besides a scratchy throat or itchy eyes that can come from nutrient contamination, the serious, long-term health problems come from heavy metals. Those problems, however, usually result from the consumption of the water or things that live in the water.
"Some of the chemicals that exist, the benchmarks are from the heavy metal family so there is always the potential that these chemicals can poison people from the food chain when they consume regular marine products from the vicinity" Adhyasko said, "apart from that, it's reasonably safe to swim there." HUH?
THE REPORT GOES ON - HELLO It seems to TRAVELSAPIEN there is a touch of denial on the part of BALI.
But sceptics say that the biggest reason the government isn't likely to take immediate action is the lack of immediate effect on visitor's health, as tourists drink purified water. HELLO! How about swimming in it? Just a thought.
Environmentalists point to possible effects on the local Balinese population - who drink out of the rivers and eat plenty of fish - but say absent conclusive research and evidence, government officials and polluters are able to ignore the problem.
Fact seems little effort is being made to clean up the continual degradation of waters off BALI.
Another interesting website you may wish to visit
is www.fugly-bali.org
These people show Tourists the underbelly and dark side of BALI all to the discomfort of officials who deny there are problems in paradise. TRAVELSAPIEN leaves it to you all to conclude is BALI - UGLY TOURISM? To this is the contribution of Tourists to the general disgard of bottles, wrappers, and junk. Without adequate care in removal the mess remains on land, beaches and water. That is a Tourist responsibility to caretake paradise so everyone following can enjoy without worrying about their health and well-being. Do your part to keep your favorite retreat pristine and natural. As to governments and businesses who hide or live in denial a pox on them all. Exposing UGLY TOURISM is a good thing!
TRAVELSAPIEN really gets antsy when Tourism becomes ugly. This report is not just about Bali, but numerous well known travel destinations around the world. The press and the Spin Doctors all compete to sell their magical destination for the illusive Tourist Dollar. Unfortunately the Tourist themselves become part of the problem in many cases. Is there such a thing as over Tourism? Sure is!
Eric Unmacht writes to www.monstersandcritics.com his story and it is worth the read.
Legian, Indonesia - When tourists go to a travel agent to book a tropical holiday they're likely to be handed glossy brochures of Bali's white-sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters.
That's why a recently leaked water quality report that put a question mark on it's reputation brought fierce reactin from government officials and businesses that depend on Bali's image as a tropical haven for overseas tourists.
"We operate the surf school next to a little river and it can bet pretty nasty in the rainy season, but generally the water's fine." said Jonni Morrison, a teacher at the Rip Curl School of Surf. "I can tell you five years ago it was a damn sght worse."
The report, which showed high levels of nutrient contaminants, as well as potentially dangerous heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, brought equal reaction from island residents convinced the ocean is being polluted by rapid development.
"It's very difficult to get a hold of good, efficient testing here, but have a look at a suburban drain or outlet in the States versus a suburban outlet here and see what it smells like," said Michael Ricos, a biologist and founder of Elia Environmental consulting company on Bali.
"The problem is we're getting RAW SEWAGE overflows, as well as vastly untreated amounts of high-nutrient rich water being let out into the ocean," he said. "That's a big problem."
Those who think any dispute involving water pollution can be easily solved bysimple, objective testing have only to look on the other side of the Indonesian archipelago at the ongoing battle between the government and the U.S. mining giant Newmont.
The company has been locked in a fierce public relations bttle with the government after being accused of polluting the waters of Sulawesi Island, with both the government and Newmont claiming to hold test results that contradict each other.
In the case of Bali, whose lifeline depends on its image as a tropical paradise, even after results showed some chemicals far above government-set limits for swimming and recreation, the head of the island's environmental agency insisted the water was safe.
"We test twice a year, in the rainy season and the dry season, and all the paramenters are under the limit," Ni Wayan Sudji said, "The sea in Bali is safe and good for swimming. Seven of our nine regencies have won awards from the national government."
Experts say that one reason for the government's apparent lack of concern about the test results is the subjective nature of their interpretation.
Luka Adhyakso, a toxicologist who works with the World Wildlife Fund in Jakarta said that, althought above limits, the contaminants found in the waters of some of Bali's most popular tourist beaches weren't seriously harmful for swimmers.
Besides a scratchy throat or itchy eyes that can come from nutrient contamination, the serious, long-term health problems come from heavy metals. Those problems, however, usually result from the consumption of the water or things that live in the water.
"Some of the chemicals that exist, the benchmarks are from the heavy metal family so there is always the potential that these chemicals can poison people from the food chain when they consume regular marine products from the vicinity" Adhyasko said, "apart from that, it's reasonably safe to swim there." HUH?
THE REPORT GOES ON - HELLO It seems to TRAVELSAPIEN there is a touch of denial on the part of BALI.
But sceptics say that the biggest reason the government isn't likely to take immediate action is the lack of immediate effect on visitor's health, as tourists drink purified water. HELLO! How about swimming in it? Just a thought.
Environmentalists point to possible effects on the local Balinese population - who drink out of the rivers and eat plenty of fish - but say absent conclusive research and evidence, government officials and polluters are able to ignore the problem.
Fact seems little effort is being made to clean up the continual degradation of waters off BALI.
Another interesting website you may wish to visit
is www.fugly-bali.org
These people show Tourists the underbelly and dark side of BALI all to the discomfort of officials who deny there are problems in paradise. TRAVELSAPIEN leaves it to you all to conclude is BALI - UGLY TOURISM? To this is the contribution of Tourists to the general disgard of bottles, wrappers, and junk. Without adequate care in removal the mess remains on land, beaches and water. That is a Tourist responsibility to caretake paradise so everyone following can enjoy without worrying about their health and well-being. Do your part to keep your favorite retreat pristine and natural. As to governments and businesses who hide or live in denial a pox on them all. Exposing UGLY TOURISM is a good thing!
Monday, September 05, 2005
WANT TO TRAVEL FREE? Little Known Secret
Shhhhhhhhhh You never heard this from TRAVELSAPIEN!
A little known secret...............................
Want to travel FREE or perhaps just really dirt cheap?
Well there may be a way for those willing to be (TRANSPORTER 2)
Nothing violent. Nothing illegal. Just call yourself a 'Transporter'.
Since 1989 a little published Organization called International Association Of Air Travel Couriers offers up a membership (US$45 per annum) that might blow your socks off!
Right! Be a Courier!
If you choose to join you become a registered Courier and avail yourself of standby or extremely inexpensive or even FREE Air Travel solely for being registered as an "Air Courier".
WOW! Link on to www.courier.org
Now as always TRAVELSAPIEN does NOT endorse but simply points out an opportunity. You can do your own due diligence. The choice is yours alone. Kind of fun though. Pretend you are the TRANSPORTER and fill your diary or journals with your travel exploits at amazing value. See you in the standby line!
A little known secret...............................
Want to travel FREE or perhaps just really dirt cheap?
Well there may be a way for those willing to be (TRANSPORTER 2)
Nothing violent. Nothing illegal. Just call yourself a 'Transporter'.
Since 1989 a little published Organization called International Association Of Air Travel Couriers offers up a membership (US$45 per annum) that might blow your socks off!
Right! Be a Courier!
If you choose to join you become a registered Courier and avail yourself of standby or extremely inexpensive or even FREE Air Travel solely for being registered as an "Air Courier".
WOW! Link on to www.courier.org
Now as always TRAVELSAPIEN does NOT endorse but simply points out an opportunity. You can do your own due diligence. The choice is yours alone. Kind of fun though. Pretend you are the TRANSPORTER and fill your diary or journals with your travel exploits at amazing value. See you in the standby line!
Saturday, September 03, 2005
England always was qwirky
TRAVELSAPIEN wishes to let everyone know England was always qwirky. Sort of.
In the old days when visitors came over, they could obtain pork, which made them feel special. The would hang up their bacon to show off. It was a sign of wealth that a man could "bring home the bacon". They would cut off a little to share with guests and would all sit around and "chew the fat".
Is that qwirky or oinky? Fun to follow the trail of quaint phrases and sayings.
What does that have to do with Travel? Well. Absolutely nothing except next time or your first time in England you have a story to tell the locals.
In the old days when visitors came over, they could obtain pork, which made them feel special. The would hang up their bacon to show off. It was a sign of wealth that a man could "bring home the bacon". They would cut off a little to share with guests and would all sit around and "chew the fat".
Is that qwirky or oinky? Fun to follow the trail of quaint phrases and sayings.
What does that have to do with Travel? Well. Absolutely nothing except next time or your first time in England you have a story to tell the locals.
Friday, September 02, 2005
COME BACK OFTEN TRAVELERS
COME BACK OFTEN TRAVELERS!
Take your time. Surf around.
TRAVELSAPIEN brings stuff pushy Travel Guru's won't.
Tell a friend. Just eMail the post you like best or eMail them all!
Where honestly can you find out if the guy with the wild white hair was hit with lightening or not? Psssst. He wasn't. It is a regional (Azerbaijan) fleecy hat men have worn for centuries. For the record, those guys can both dance and throw knives with their teeth at the same time. Ouch!
Take your time. Surf around.
TRAVELSAPIEN brings stuff pushy Travel Guru's won't.
Tell a friend. Just eMail the post you like best or eMail them all!
Where honestly can you find out if the guy with the wild white hair was hit with lightening or not? Psssst. He wasn't. It is a regional (Azerbaijan) fleecy hat men have worn for centuries. For the record, those guys can both dance and throw knives with their teeth at the same time. Ouch!
Thursday, September 01, 2005
TRAVEL BY CAR IN DUBAI
TRAVELSAPIEN wants you to know this automobile AUDI 8 is not available to rent unfortunately. It is a beautiful silver Audi don't you think?
SILVER it is SILVER! ALL SILVER! HOLY MOLY!
Next time you travel and want to rent-a-car ask yourself hmmmmmm " Should I see if I can rent one in silver?" Not joking around everyone. This car is totally made of silver.
What "oil" can buy. Wonder what this little gem costs mph! Oh who cares? Who cares?
SILVER it is SILVER! ALL SILVER! HOLY MOLY!
Next time you travel and want to rent-a-car ask yourself hmmmmmm " Should I see if I can rent one in silver?" Not joking around everyone. This car is totally made of silver.
What "oil" can buy. Wonder what this little gem costs mph! Oh who cares? Who cares?
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Hard Days Night! When the road is too long
After a long day on the road -
TRAVELSAPIEN suggests take a travel break.
Try some Strawberry Pancakes. Some people go crazy for them.
You just have to love these guys
http://www.weebls-stuff.com/toons/strawberry+pancakes/
Put a little song into your day! When you are too tired to move click on the WEEBLS!!
That's it for August everyone! Great stuff in September so surf on back
or why not check out the archive.
Cheers!
TRAVELSAPIEN suggests take a travel break.
Try some Strawberry Pancakes. Some people go crazy for them.
You just have to love these guys
http://www.weebls-stuff.com/toons/strawberry+pancakes/
Put a little song into your day! When you are too tired to move click on the WEEBLS!!
That's it for August everyone! Great stuff in September so surf on back
or why not check out the archive.
Cheers!
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Honeymoon Travel in the 1500's
HONEYMOONER's in the 1500's were interesting traveler's. In Europe, where exactly don't know but probably France, most people got married in June because they took their yearly bath in May and still smelled pretty good by June. However, they were starting to smell, so brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odor, hence the custom today of carrying a bouquet when getting married.
No. Really. TRAVELSAPIEN is not making this up! If the city of Paris was the destination for all those Honeymooner's one could almost sing
" I love Paris in the Springtime"?
By the fall perhaps the song would be "Bathtub Blues"? Maybe "Two (coins) Honeymooner's in the fountain."? Of course it is "Three Coins in the fountain" but hey, who needs to wash coins.
No. Really. TRAVELSAPIEN is not making this up! If the city of Paris was the destination for all those Honeymooner's one could almost sing
" I love Paris in the Springtime"?
By the fall perhaps the song would be "Bathtub Blues"? Maybe "Two (coins) Honeymooner's in the fountain."? Of course it is "Three Coins in the fountain" but hey, who needs to wash coins.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
FAT MAN WALKING
Weight gain a problem? TRAVELSAPIEN suggests backpacking as a route to contemplate. Travel by foot a gaining popularity. You just have to check on Dave. Netscape and CNET have featured him and his trek across America to lose weight. Call it TRAVEL. Now Dave is one big guy.Dave is taking on celebrity status with even the Oprah Show interested. Dave has a great site to follow his journey and there are great links to those interested in backpacking and hiking. Don't miss out on the TRAVELSAPIEN piece on Walking Tours done back in December/04. Check the archive and if Europe is kool you will like it. Right now though the FAT MAN WALKING is pure innocence and a great tribute to someone who wants to make personal changes. It is inspiring that instead of sitting in some Gym and sweating away to music with cheezy personal trainers barking encouragement at you Dave has choosen to walk it off! Healthy and fun. So Kool you need give him a hand. Travel by foot was truely the original touring vehicle. Let's all follow Dave at
www.fatmanwalking.com
Cheer him on! Go Dave Go
PS: Wonder what his website name will be if he totally changes his weight to maybe Slim Man Walking? Hmmmmm Go Dave Go
www.fatmanwalking.com
Cheer him on! Go Dave Go
PS: Wonder what his website name will be if he totally changes his weight to maybe Slim Man Walking? Hmmmmm Go Dave Go
Thursday, August 04, 2005
KANSAS CITY - BBQ Pork-a-holics Dream
Kansas City challenges the world. Face stuffing Pork-a-holics dream! If you click on the TRAVELSAPIEN archives for February you will find the comments on Mickey-Lu's-Bar-B-Q as being amongst the finest however (Kansas says) "Try Us you Pork-a-holics! Okay. It is summer so why not. You got to enjoy the Famous America types of BBQ as they are all different, but, Earl Quick's BBQ stands out and Fiorella's JackStack BBQ at www.jackstackbbq.com and Arthur Bryant's digs at www.arthurbryantsbbq.com could intice readers. Then you could take a moment to look at www.oklahomajoesbbq.com and www.bbslawnsidebbq.com . All a bit different to the Mickey-Lu's - Bar-B-Q shout back in February. Anyway if you can't make it to Kansas, try the following Barbecued Pork Shoulder. A little long but worth the effort so say the Pork-a-holics and you can do it at home. Almost.
The Meat - 1 bone-in-pork shoulder, 5-7 pounds
The Rub - You know "rub it on piggy!"
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup paprika
3 tablespoons ground black pepper
3 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder (not garlic salt)
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon celery seeds
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground ginger
i teaspoond ground turmeric
The Basting Sauce
1/2 cups cider vinegar
1 small onion, minced
1 teaspoon hot red chile flakes
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground black pepper ---- and you all thought this was easy!
The Sauce
3 cups cider vinegar
3 tablespoons molasses
2 tablespoons dark corn syrup
1 cup Heinz chile sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons Crystal hot sauce ( or something like Frank's or hotter as you wish)
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons red chile flakes
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Now you have to ask "What next?" Absolutely! All the above is just getting you warmed up to complete your KANSAS CITY BBQ home recipe. To keep the rubs and sauces seperate from the COOKING click on the KANSAS CITY Part 2 - Time to Cook! Comin up!
The Meat - 1 bone-in-pork shoulder, 5-7 pounds
The Rub - You know "rub it on piggy!"
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup paprika
3 tablespoons ground black pepper
3 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder (not garlic salt)
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon celery seeds
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground ginger
i teaspoond ground turmeric
The Basting Sauce
1/2 cups cider vinegar
1 small onion, minced
1 teaspoon hot red chile flakes
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground black pepper ---- and you all thought this was easy!
The Sauce
3 cups cider vinegar
3 tablespoons molasses
2 tablespoons dark corn syrup
1 cup Heinz chile sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons Crystal hot sauce ( or something like Frank's or hotter as you wish)
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons red chile flakes
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Now you have to ask "What next?" Absolutely! All the above is just getting you warmed up to complete your KANSAS CITY BBQ home recipe. To keep the rubs and sauces seperate from the COOKING click on the KANSAS CITY Part 2 - Time to Cook! Comin up!
PIG OUT IN Kansas PART 2 THE RECIPE
TRAVELSAPIEN wants you all to be sure and thank Andrew Zimmern, former Chef and Food Critic for the recipes empowering you to enjoy this real good Kansas City version of American Barbeques. The Rub. The Basting Sauce. The Sauce............. and now you know what to do with them all.
Remember from the other post THE MEAT>> a 1 bone-in-pork shoulder, 5-7 pounds.
1.Combine the rub ingredients, set aside.
2.Combine the basting sauce ingredients, whisk until sugar and salt are dissolved, set aside.
3.Combine barbeque sauce ingredients over medium heat in a small pot.
4.When simmering, lower heat to maintain simmer and gently cook until barbecue sauce consistency is reached. Cool and refrigerate overnight.
Massage pork shoulder with the rub and let sit overnight in the refrigerator. "Grill" the pork over indirect medium-low heat, using smoking chips if desired
(I do) to establish a deeper smoke flavor. You will want to keep adding hardwood or charcoal every 40 minutes or so to maintain a low heat of roughly 250 degrees. For gas grills, you also want to maintain a temperature of roughly 250 degrees and cook over indirect heat. Baste every hour with the basting sauce. Pork is done when the meat is fork tender, and almost falls apart. ( some people would call that "Pulled Pork"). It will have shrunken back from the bone. This will take roughly six hours or until fork tender.
Serve pork with the barbeque sauce.
Now you know why you were making three different treatments for cooking and eating Always remember good comes from slow. Do NOT rush the recipe. If you do not have time to prepare this correctly there is always some take-out you can go to.
( NOT UNLESS YOU ARE IN KANSAS) PS - Is Barbeque, Barbecue is BBQ? Does it matter?
If this recipe does not work for you - SEE YOU IN KANSAS!
Remember from the other post THE MEAT>> a 1 bone-in-pork shoulder, 5-7 pounds.
1.Combine the rub ingredients, set aside.
2.Combine the basting sauce ingredients, whisk until sugar and salt are dissolved, set aside.
3.Combine barbeque sauce ingredients over medium heat in a small pot.
4.When simmering, lower heat to maintain simmer and gently cook until barbecue sauce consistency is reached. Cool and refrigerate overnight.
Massage pork shoulder with the rub and let sit overnight in the refrigerator. "Grill" the pork over indirect medium-low heat, using smoking chips if desired
(I do) to establish a deeper smoke flavor. You will want to keep adding hardwood or charcoal every 40 minutes or so to maintain a low heat of roughly 250 degrees. For gas grills, you also want to maintain a temperature of roughly 250 degrees and cook over indirect heat. Baste every hour with the basting sauce. Pork is done when the meat is fork tender, and almost falls apart. ( some people would call that "Pulled Pork"). It will have shrunken back from the bone. This will take roughly six hours or until fork tender.
Serve pork with the barbeque sauce.
Now you know why you were making three different treatments for cooking and eating Always remember good comes from slow. Do NOT rush the recipe. If you do not have time to prepare this correctly there is always some take-out you can go to.
( NOT UNLESS YOU ARE IN KANSAS) PS - Is Barbeque, Barbecue is BBQ? Does it matter?
If this recipe does not work for you - SEE YOU IN KANSAS!
Monday, August 01, 2005
GULF ESCAPES CANADA - ORCAS EAGLES SEA LIONS
GULF ESCAPES - CANADA There are many "Gulf" places in our world. The Gulf Islands TRAVELSAPIEN is referring too are the Canadian Gulf Islands off the Western Canada mainland. Straddling the 49th parallel located in the Gulf of Georgia between Vancouver and Victoria British Columbia. Just north of the American San Juan Islands Washington State. Now the San Juan Islands are no slouch either however the Canadian version holds something very special. Probably very Canadian.
Protected as they are the Gulf Islands are made up of some 300 Islands in the Southern Gulf area. Now THAT is a lot of exploring to do! Pebble Beaches, Arbutus Trees, Orcas, Eagles, Sea Lions, Salmon, Shell Fish, Land Otter, Warm Sultry Summers, artisans and on it goes.
Maddronna and Garry Oak is everywhere, Friendly People, Farmers, (the famous Saltspring Island Lamb) comes from this area, Studios of Writers, Potters, Painters, Weavers, Spinners, Wood Carvers, Micro Breweries, Organic Coffee Roasters, the Gulf Islands will keep you dazzled every moment of your day. Bicycle Tours, Ocean Kyakking, Hiking, Golf, Walking, Wilderness and Wildlife Cruising, Sailing (yourself or skippered) Charming Guest Houses and Quaint Local Hotels. Natural beauty is bountiful.
To get a picture of the rugged areas look to the southern most point of the larger Vancouver Island to "Race Rocks". Try the LIVE CAM at www.racerocks.com There you can control the camera to take in Sea Lions, live, sunning themselves on the rocky shelves.
To really enjoy the Gulf Islands TRAVELSAPIEN would suggest having a local with all the knowledge of the area show you the best of the best. The people at www.gulfescapes.com are long time experts in putting together packages that will have you active, and, getting the most out of your valuable time. Link them here or on the sidebar if you want to know more. Gulf Escapes has downloadable brochures mapping out great vacation opportunities.
Ask for Jon De West. Everyone knows Jon.
TRAVELSAPIEN would say that the Gulf Islands are one of the world's wonders on this planet. A haven for escape and relaxation. Four Season Splendour. There are enough islands to keep you busy a long, long time. More and more folks are discovering these islands make a great retirement location as well. People like Donald Dashwood on Saltspring Island is a master builder and anyone there can tell you how to find him. I mean how big an Island is it? Not. If you want something, very different, along the line of West Coast Log, then www.nevilogcanada.com
Either contractor can build your dream get-a-way or full time Shangrila. If you want something far less extravigante', no problemo, from basic cabins to riches the choice is always yours.
So get with it everyone! The Gulf Islands call. So many. So little time.
Protected as they are the Gulf Islands are made up of some 300 Islands in the Southern Gulf area. Now THAT is a lot of exploring to do! Pebble Beaches, Arbutus Trees, Orcas, Eagles, Sea Lions, Salmon, Shell Fish, Land Otter, Warm Sultry Summers, artisans and on it goes.
Maddronna and Garry Oak is everywhere, Friendly People, Farmers, (the famous Saltspring Island Lamb) comes from this area, Studios of Writers, Potters, Painters, Weavers, Spinners, Wood Carvers, Micro Breweries, Organic Coffee Roasters, the Gulf Islands will keep you dazzled every moment of your day. Bicycle Tours, Ocean Kyakking, Hiking, Golf, Walking, Wilderness and Wildlife Cruising, Sailing (yourself or skippered) Charming Guest Houses and Quaint Local Hotels. Natural beauty is bountiful.
To get a picture of the rugged areas look to the southern most point of the larger Vancouver Island to "Race Rocks". Try the LIVE CAM at www.racerocks.com There you can control the camera to take in Sea Lions, live, sunning themselves on the rocky shelves.
To really enjoy the Gulf Islands TRAVELSAPIEN would suggest having a local with all the knowledge of the area show you the best of the best. The people at www.gulfescapes.com are long time experts in putting together packages that will have you active, and, getting the most out of your valuable time. Link them here or on the sidebar if you want to know more. Gulf Escapes has downloadable brochures mapping out great vacation opportunities.
Ask for Jon De West. Everyone knows Jon.
TRAVELSAPIEN would say that the Gulf Islands are one of the world's wonders on this planet. A haven for escape and relaxation. Four Season Splendour. There are enough islands to keep you busy a long, long time. More and more folks are discovering these islands make a great retirement location as well. People like Donald Dashwood on Saltspring Island is a master builder and anyone there can tell you how to find him. I mean how big an Island is it? Not. If you want something, very different, along the line of West Coast Log, then www.nevilogcanada.com
Either contractor can build your dream get-a-way or full time Shangrila. If you want something far less extravigante', no problemo, from basic cabins to riches the choice is always yours.
So get with it everyone! The Gulf Islands call. So many. So little time.
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