Sunday, April 26, 2009
Baracoa – Mirror of the Past
Baracoa was the very first capital of CUBA. It is a place where time stands still. A reflection of the past, with life in its present. Life seems simple to the foreign eye, yet poverty has planted moulds into its existence and hope. A cloud of melancholy floats above the city; yet faces glow with genuine smiles, homes are filled with love, and streets echo with music. This is a lieu of confusion rooted in motionless time. Visit The Compass to read the full article.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Cenotes- The Sacred Waters of Mexico
Labels:
cenotes,
Chichen Itza,
compass travel,
Guillermo de Anda,
ikkil,
maya,
Mexico,
ruins,
Yucatan
Friday, March 14, 2008
A Breath of Dead Air- Czech Republic
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The Sedlec Ossuary contains approximately 40 000-70 000 human skeletons in forms of decorations and furnishings. During the Black Plague of the 14th century, one of the most deadly pandemics in human history, Europe carried as many as 50 million deaths. Read more...
Labels:
archaeology,
black plague,
bone house,
breath,
compass travel,
Czech Republic,
dead air,
kostnice,
Kutna Hora,
ossuary,
Prague,
sedlec,
skeleton,
skulls
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Sidi Bou Said- An Artist’s Mecca
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Sidi Bou Said, a little town located in the Northern Tunisia, is not only colourful in its appearance, but in its people too. At 20 km from the capital, it has become a popular tourist trap. Despite of it, it has still kept its traditions as an authentic lieu where Tunisians reside up to this very day. Once you leave the main street of Habib Thameur, you will begin to experience the real Tunisian life. You find yourself along hidden passages with carefully lined cobblestone streets and colourfully painted doors. Each door may have a new story to tell. Painted with unique patterns, they represent signatures and symbols of Tunisia. One may be the entrance to the mosque; another will lead you to the backyard of a local. It may even be a mere boutique hiding behind a green and red striped masterpiece.
Many speak of Sidi Bou Said as the ‘Artist’s Village’. Read more...
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Seville: Experiencing the best tapas
Tapas are an essential part of life in Seville. In the early days they consisted of a slice of cheese or ham which was offered at the bar to cover drinks; hence the meaning of the word ‘lid’. There are many myths as to why this was done. One of the more popular ones argues that placing the slice over your drink would keep the flies away and hide the smell of cheap wine. Read more...
Labels:
Andalusia,
bullfighting,
flamenco,
moorish architecture,
Sevilla,
Seville,
Spain,
tapas
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Let there be light: Lyon Festival of Lights
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It first began in 1852 when every household would light up candles at their windows in honour of Virgin Mary. As the night fell, locals gathered in a pilgrim walk up the hill to the Fourvière Cathedral carrying lanterns.
Today, this celebration has allowed artists from around the globe to express their creativity through the use of light. The city’s main architecture sites are matched by unique light displays which bring out the vibrancy and detail of each building. The numerous bridges, for which Lyon is known, are illuminated as well, creating a transcending reflection along the rivers of Saône and Rhône. Unusual animations are projected by light beams against many historic monuments. Whether you are strolling down the narrow alleys of the Croix Rousse hill or relaxing at the river banks, you will be enchanted by the playful movements of light and music.
Imagine Lyon’s history come alive with thousands of lights. The city is now not only known as the culinary capital of France, but as one of the best kept secrets of Europe.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Ice-skating for fitness and socialization
If you are a novice, it is time to try this out. Sure you will take some falls, but that is part of the fun. The only way to learn is to do it yourself. Grab an experienced friend who can hold your hand during the first nerve-racking hours and head out onto the ice. If all your friends are virgin skaters, then why not try a skating lesson? The Harbourfront centre hosts annual lessons for beginners with the next session starting in January.
Some health facts:
Ice-skating improves your balance and coordination. It is a great workout for your abs, quads, calves, and hamstrings. The more experienced you become the better workout you will have.
Where to skate?
There are two outdoor skating rinks located in the downtown core. Both rinks, at Nathan Phillips Square and the Harbourfront, are well lit with inviting music and atmosphere. You may choose to skate at Harbourfront while admiring the tranquil movements of Lake Ontario, or glide along City Hall surrounded by illuminated skyscrapers and trees.
To learn more about ice-skating activities and lessons visit: http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/noflash/skating.php
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