tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129282382024-03-19T00:36:16.702-07:00travelthroughhistoryOn the road with Ruthaki (W. Ruth Kozak)Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.comBlogger413125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-38946045887820474662022-08-27T10:58:00.003-07:002022-08-27T10:58:59.344-07:00<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://travelthroughhistory.blogspot.com"><img alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" /></a><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Keeping this up to date, I am currently doing the final edits on my new novel DRAGONS IN THE SKY</div><div>a first-person narrative in the voice of a young Cymru girl (Welsh Kelt) set in the 3rd C. BC with ties to the youthful Alexander the Great. I'll be posting more about this novel as I prepare it for publication. It's been another long haul -- first got the idea iin 1979 after my first visit to Stonehenge, Old Sarum and eventually Greece. Wrote the first part during the 1980s when I lived in Greece. Then set it aside to write SHADOW OF THE LION (which took me almost 15 yrs to research, write and publish!) I resumed writing DRAGONS in 2014 and just recently completed it. I may self publish it rather than wait 3 or 4 y ears to find a publisher. And when I do, I'll post more on t his site about it. </div>Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-48584817657167585442019-07-15T15:29:00.001-07:002019-07-15T15:29:37.925-07:00ADVENTURES IN LONDON<img alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" />Usually I like to spend two or three days in London. I love going on the London Walks which are so interesting. I've been on quite a few as well as exploring many parts of London. But this year I will only have one day there and by the time my flight comes in from Athens it will be too late to join a London Walk. So, I have decided to explore another place that sounds very intriguing to me and probably worth a good travel story.<br />
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<b>CROSSBONES GRAVEYARD </b>located a short walk from Shakespeare's Globe is the site of an old burial ground with an extraordinary history. For centuries it was the burial place of outcasts, sex workers and paupers. The idea of a "prostitute's graveyard" intrigued me. I wonder if some of Jack the Ripper's victims could be buried there? (I've previously made the Jack the Ripper Walk in London and it was one of the most memorable walks.)<br />
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According to local lore, Crossbones was once the final resting place for Winchester Geese, medieval sex workers licensed by the Bishop of Winchester to work in the brothels of The Liberty of the Clink, which lay outside the law of the City of London. By the time it was closed in 1853 Crossbones held the mortal remains of an estimated 15,000 paupers.<br />
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Part of it was dug up in the 1990's during work on the tube extension line. In 1996 the writer John Constable had a vision which revealed the secret history of Crossbones, the inspiration for <i>The Southwark Mysteries</i> a collection of poems, plays and esoteric lore performed in The Globe and the Cathedral. A shrine was created at the red iron gates in Redcross Way dedicated to 'the outcast deat'. It is now a garden of remembrance. Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com203tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-27111695598808472222019-07-13T14:32:00.000-07:002019-07-13T14:32:36.784-07:00VISITING OLD FRIENDS AND NEW PLACES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #000032;">One thing I like to do whenever I go to Europe is to stop in Germany to visit my friend Patrick. He lives in the lovely city of Mainz and it's always a pleasant stop-over in my travels.</span><br />
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<b>Mainz Street</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Visiting a castle near Mainz</b></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #000032;">There's always a lot of adventures waiting and Patrick likes showing me around the city as well as other places nearby. </span><span style="color: #000032;">Sometimes we travel by train to see the sights.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #000032;">This trip we'll take the train to the little village of Zetting, just across the border in France. It was once part of Germany. There is an 1000 yr old Romanesque Church there that Patrick wants to show me. (Patrick is a talented organist and plays the pipe organ in various churches in and around Mainz).</span><br />
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<b>ZETTING</b></div>
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<b>Old Romanesque Church</b><br />
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<span style="color: #000032;">We're going to visit his mother, Hanna (Anna) who lives there. I have met her before and she even came to Canada to visit when Patrick lived here. So it's going to be a very nice reunion. Patrick says we are invited to go with Hanna and her husband to sample a delicious French meal! </span><br />
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<b>Hanna and me</b></div>
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<b>Hanna and Patrick</b></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #000032;">I'll only be in Germany a few days, but as always it will be a great adventure and lots of fun seeing my friends again!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #000032;"><br /></span>Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com59tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-25561503257992696132019-07-09T12:33:00.000-07:002019-07-09T12:33:48.928-07:00PLANNING NEW ADVENTURES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every time I go to Greece I try to visit some sites that I have never been to before. There are so many choices, so many islands, archaeological sites, interesting towns and beautiful beaches! The choices are so many it makes it tricky trying to make plans that will not be complicated and too expensive -- and also fit in with the length of time I'll be in the country.<br />
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This year I have made a 'tentative' plan -- one that should work fine, making sure ferry and bus connections are suitable. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>NAXOS</b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td></tr>
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From NAXOS island I plan to take the ferry to HERAKLION, CRETE. I visited there last trip and spent several days sight-seeing and exploring the archaeological site of Minoan KNOSSOS.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>HERAKLION</b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td></tr>
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This time, I'll stay a day or two in Heraklion and visit the Minoan site of KNOSSOS again and then take the bus to ELOUNDA.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>KNOSSOS</b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>ELOUDIA</b></td></tr>
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From Eloudi I can get a boat for a day trip to the former leper's island, SPINALONGA. This was once a Venetian stronghold during the Turkish invasion and eventually became a leper colony, occupied until 1957. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>SPINALONGA</b></td></tr>
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From Elounda I also want to visit another Minoan site at GOURNIA. It's one of the most completely preserved Minoan towns, perhaps not quite as impressive as the palace site of KNOSSOS, but still an important archaeological site showing the lives of ordinary people 3500 years ago.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>GOURNIA</b></td></tr>
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Hopefully there will be a bus from Elounda but if not I can get there from Agios Nikolaos which isn't too far away. I've always been fascinated by the MINOANS and my friend and mentor, Dr Jack Dempsey, (from US but now living near Heraklion) will hopefully give me some good info and tips about this site.<br />
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After this little jaunt I'll go back to Heraklion and from there get the ferry over to the island of MILOS.<br />
this is a fascinating little volcanic island with chalk-white rock formations, hot springs and good beaches. I'm hoping to spend a few days there exploring before heading back to Athens.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>MILOS</b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>VOLCANIC CLIFFS OF MILOS,</b></td></tr>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-20663270732707478512019-07-08T14:57:00.000-07:002019-07-08T15:02:05.835-07:00RETURNING TO FAMILIAR PLACES<div>
There are several places that I will make a return visit to this year on my visit to GREECE.</div>
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One if my favorite island, NAXOS, where I love to go every year to stay at Maragas Beach in the bed tents. The people there know me as I go so often, and always make me feel so 'at home'. </div>
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<b>MARAGAS CAMPING</b></div>
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Besides the bed tents there is tenting, RV spaces and also cabins to rent.</div>
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There's a coffee shop, taverna and mini market. The beach there is fabulous. And there is a convenient bus service into town.</div>
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<b>NAXOS </b></div>
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Another place I will be sure to return to again this year is DELPHI. It's been a couple of years since I made a pilgrimage there. Delphi is one of the most sacred places in Greece, you feel the spirit of the gods there among those ancient temples.</div>
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<b>DELPHI</b></div>
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A third place I will return to is to visit the site of CHAIRONEIA, where a famous battle was fought between King Philip II of Macedon and the Athenians. in 338 BC. I've been writing about this battle in my current novel DRAGONS IN THE SKY. It is where the 18 yr old Alexander, in charge of the Macedonian cavalry, led them against the fabled Theban Sacred Band and totally annihilated them. (The Sacred Band fought in pairs and each man stood by his partner until they both went down),. </div>
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I've also been writing about DELPHI in my novel and that is why I want to return to both of these important places to get a fresh perspective.</div>
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<b>CHAIRONEIA</b></div>
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This is the famous battle field of Chaironeia. There is a stone lion by the roadside commemorating the battle. It stands by the roadside near a burial mound for the Thebans. I visited this site some years ago and want to refresh my memory on the layout of the vast valley.</div>
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In addition, I am hoping to return to CRETE again this year to visit a few new, inspiring Minoan and other sites. </div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com72tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-17311701551118700272019-07-07T22:04:00.001-07:002019-07-07T22:04:04.472-07:002019 TRAVEL PLANS: GERMANY, GREECE, ENGLAND/WALES<div>
I'm starting to make my travel plans for my trip to Europe, leaving here August 27. </div>
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My first stop will be Frankfurt and Mainz where I will visit my friend Patrick. Later we will cross over into France to visit his mom. </div>
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After visiting Germany for a few days, I'll fly to Athens and spend some time with friends before heading up north to Thessaloniki for a short visit.</div>
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While there I always enjoy the walk along the sea front to the statue of Alexander the Great where I must pay homage.</div>
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I am planning a trip to Pella for the day for research purposes. Pella was once the Royal City of Macedonia in the time of Philip II and Alexander. I have used it in a setting for my current work-in-progress and would like to do some fact-checking for accurate setting details.</div>
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I haven't quite decided whether to go to Halikidiki and instead I might go on an all-day boat trip that takes you around Mount Athos, the holy peninsula where no women are allowed to set food. At least Id get to see it from the boat and it should be a lovely day trip to make.</div>
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I'll add more of my travel plans as I get them made. One place I'd really like to visit on a day trip is the site of the famous \Battle of Chaeronea, where Alexander, age 18 on his first major battle campaign, leading the cavalry, defeated the Theban Sacred Band. I've been there before some years ago and would like to see it again for the sake of research for my novel.</div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-46658002682315115552018-08-21T15:36:00.001-07:002018-08-21T15:37:25.098-07:00Travel writing thru the Centuries<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">TRAVEL WRITING THRU THE
CENTURIES</span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Adventures in Egypt and Morocco from the 1600’s to the turn
of the 20<sup>th</sup> century</span></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHZ6X5Y29y4RQqiUt7hNJ0_7EeVgN3uKWZDtIcyQjj8l5Lr6g4nnFOOk9SaeANAkPtSYiUBLsdF3yLtqMcpQsp1JQ0V0sNm14mQivgs2YAMtMNjaYYjw8BXKwDqrIpkV0i4qj/s1600/20180812_201341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="818" data-original-width="461" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioHZ6X5Y29y4RQqiUt7hNJ0_7EeVgN3uKWZDtIcyQjj8l5Lr6g4nnFOOk9SaeANAkPtSYiUBLsdF3yLtqMcpQsp1JQ0V0sNm14mQivgs2YAMtMNjaYYjw8BXKwDqrIpkV0i4qj/s320/20180812_201341.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Two years
ago I was offered a series of books published by the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">American University in Cairo Press.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The first set of books included poetry and diary excerpts from travelers
in Egypt from the 1700’s to the 19<sup>th</sup> century.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">WOMEN TRAVELERS ON THE NILE </span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(edited by Deborah Manley) is an
anthology of journal excerpts and stories written by women who were brave
enough to venture into a world that until then had mainly been explored by
men.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of them accompanied their
husbands., others bravely ventured out alone, in the company of Egyptian
guides. Many of them ended up living in Egypt and contributed more insights
into Egyptian life, especially from a woman’s perspective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They learned Arabic and met both the poorer
women and the richest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of these
women were invited to join groups or to accompany their husbands. Some wrote
books about their travels, others made notes in journals. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakcqk-gX_w2neGb9VRzjOnruyryC58VOJzSBOgAAM2cjwAdoM7SZCrfmdW_MKdayCvZkzCf0MQrvxLQT5gLLZOUI9ccqlPq84Y8dgU2lI1cErw9eevuSDgPtp_qTAK7T6TugI/s1600/DSC00864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="480" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhakcqk-gX_w2neGb9VRzjOnruyryC58VOJzSBOgAAM2cjwAdoM7SZCrfmdW_MKdayCvZkzCf0MQrvxLQT5gLLZOUI9ccqlPq84Y8dgU2lI1cErw9eevuSDgPtp_qTAK7T6TugI/s320/DSC00864.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I was
privileged in 2014 to be invited on a small travel journalist’s tour of Egypt
offered by the Egyptian Tourism in Ottawa, Canada.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was a dream come true for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only had I been fascinated with Egypt and
Egyptian history for years, but I had recently completed on novel about
Alexander the Great (<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">SHADOW OF THE LION</b>)
which is partly set in Egypt at the time the city of Alexandria was being built
by Ptolemy 1<sup>st</sup> according to Alexander’s wishes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Because of
my own unforgettable adventures on that 10-day trip, I was fascinated to read
the stories of these women who had journeyed, often alone, into the desert by
camel and lived in these ancient communities. Seeing Egypt through their eyes
was a real pleasure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The women
travelers included <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Emily Anne Beaufort</b>
(1826-1887) daughter of the creator of the Beaufort Wind Scale; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sarah Belzoni</b> (1785-1970) wife of a
famous Egyptian explorer; Isabella Bird (1831-1904) one of the greatest
Victorian era travel writers; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">M.L.M.
Carey</b> (1860-?) a writer an artist; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Eliza
Fay</b> (1756-1816) an adventurous woman who also accompanied her husband to
India in 1799, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Marianne North</b> (1830
-90) one of the most intrepid of the Victorian lady travelers. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mary Whatley</b> (1824-89() who set up
schools for poor Egyptian girls, as well as many others. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ANCIENT EGYPT IN POETRY,</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> is<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>an anthology of Nineteenth Century<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>Verse.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>(edited by
Donald P. Ryan) Intrigued by the history and ancient ruins of Egypt,<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>many writers over the years have
visited Egypt, attracted by the adventure and ancient intrigue found in the
remarkable archaeological sites and the fascinating desert landscapes. During
the nineteenth century Egypt was in particular a popular destination for poets,
writers and artists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Some of the
poets who traveled there whose work is included in the book are <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Thomas Bailey Aldrich (</b>1836-1907), an
American poet, newspaper and magazine editor and Civil War correspondent wo
visited Egypt in 1905; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Charles Dent Bell</b>
(1818-98) an Irish vicar who was inspired by nature; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Robert Browning</b> (1812-89) one of the greatest literary figures in
English language, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Lord Byron</b>
(1788-1824) one of the greatest Romantic Era poets; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mary Elizabeth Coleridge</b> (1861-1907) noted for her compassion
toward the poor and uneducated; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">John
Keats</b> (1795-1821) one of the great Romantic Era poets of England; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Henry Wadsworth Longfellow</b> (1897-82)one
of Americas greatest poets; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Herman
Melville</b> (1819-91) author of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Moby
Dick </i>and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Typee</i>; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Percy Bysshe Shelley</b> (1792-1822) noted
English poet and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Alfred Tennyson</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(1809-92) poet laureate of the United
Kingdom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">These two
books are pocket-sized, quick-reads, making them handy to take along in your
purse or back-pack. </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ARISTOCRATS AND ARCHAEOLOGIST:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An Edwardian Journey on the Nile </span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(edited by Toby Wilkinson and Julian Platt) is
a fascinating journal recording an Edwardian doctor’s journey on the Nile in
the winter of 1907 – 1908, complied of a series of letters that give a
first-hand account of the three-month trip, sites visited, passengers on board
and people encountered along the journey as well encounters with cultural and
class differences. The collection of letters was written by “Ferdy”, the great
uncle of Julian Platt. During the early 1900’s people often escaped the cold
dank winters of England and the many illnesses that often-ravaged Europe and
spent the winter months in warmer climes. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">“Ferdy”
(Ferdinand) A.F.R. Platt</b> was a physician who accompanied the wealthy Duke
of Devonshire on a journey to Egypt. It’s a delightful read and includes maps
and itinerary notes and photographs of all Platt’s adventures as they cruised
the Nile.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The most
recent book I received from Cairo Press is another tiny gem, A<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> MOROCCO ANTHOLOGY</b> (edited by Martin
Rose).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found this book just as
intriguing as the Egyptian books as I have also traveled to Morocco several
years ago. It’s a book I’d like to have read before I made that trekking
journey into the foothills of the High Atlas from Marrakech. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Morocco has
four ‘imperial cities’ where the sultan’s court settled in past times. This
book includes visits to the various cities by adventurers, travel writers and
others to these fabled cities. Morocco had a French and Spanish colonial period
that lasted 44 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Writer Edith Wharton
wrote <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“a country so deeply conditioned by
its miles and miles of uncitied wilderness that until one has know the
wilderness one cannot understand the cities”. </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This little book takes you on a journey to
each of these cities and explores the point of view of these travelers from
long ago. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of these contributors include <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Ali Bey Al-Abbassi</b> (1767-1818) a
Spaniard from Barcelona, who visited Morocco between 1803-1805; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Ellis Ashmea-Bartlett</b> (1888-1931) a war
correspondent who worked for Reuters.;<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Paul Bowles</b> (1910-0=99 an American
novelist, composer, musician, poet and translator; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Walter Harris</b> (1866-1933) a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Times
</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>correspondent who traveled in
disguise to meet sultans and rebels; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Emily
Keen</b>, Shareefa of Ouazzane (1850-1941) an English governess who married the
Grand Sheikh of Ouazzane’; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pierre Loti</b>
(1850-1923) a French navel officer and novelist; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Samuel Pepys</b> (1633-1703) a diarist; <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Edith Wharton</b> (1862-1937) American writer who won the Pulitzer
Prize for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Age of Innocence. </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This books takes
you on an exotic journey to all of the imperial cities of Morocco and gives
some insight into what life was like back in the past from the journals of
these interesting writers.</span></div>
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<img alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" />Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com189tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-26339886570934713282018-05-01T12:15:00.000-07:002018-05-01T12:18:48.977-07:00CELEBRATING SPRING AT A GOLF/SPA RESORT<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://travelthroughhistory.blogspot.com"><img alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" /></a>
What better way to celebrate spring than at an idyllic spa resort? A year ago I was fortunate to win a door prize at the BC Travel Writer’s Assoc. annual symposium. The prize was a two-day stay at the Westin Bear Mountain spa/golf course part of a resort community on Vancouver Island.
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The community of Bear Mountain, located just 20 kms north of Victoria, began as golf resort but has developed into a multi dimensional urban resort community for people who desire a quiet and healthy lifestyle. Built on the slopes of a rugged yet pristine mountain area the resort not only includes the two par Nicklaus Design golf course, but also offers other amenities to the visitor.
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The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort Spa is a luxury five-star hotel set in the midst of the urban resort development of Langford. It features spacious newly renovated rooms with expansive views of the golf course fairways and the surrounding mountains. The hotel has a private wine cellar, unique outdoor recreation areas including tennis courts, a Fire Lounge and free access to the North Langford Recreation Centre which is located between the two hotel buildings.<br />
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Besides the hotel amenities and spa there are biking/walking trails and a golf practice facility. The golf courses features 36 holes providing a perfect experience for year round golfing with panoramic mountain and ocean views.
I’m not a golfer but I was excited about going to visit Westin Bear Mountain to enjoy a Spring break. I arranged for a friend to come along, and then much to my delight I found out that the rooms accommodated four people. So I invited two other friends to join us. Because the invitation had to be used by the end of March 2018, I arranged for us to visit mid-March, a perfect Spring get-away after our long wet, west-coast winter.<br />
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We packed into one car and got the ferry to Swartz Bay and from there it was an easy drive up Island north-west through Langford to Bear Mountain. When we arrived and were given the room keys, imagine our delight when we found out that our “room” was actually a condo sized suite with a full kitchen, living room with a fireplace and balcony view of the golf greens, a large bedroom with a king-sized bed, and two bathrooms. The couch in the living room pulled out to make a double bed and the hotel provided us with an extra twin-sized cot for the fourth visitor.<br />
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The Bear Mountain village is a family friendly location with a Mountain Market nearby for shopping needs and Jack’s Place, a restaurant where we enjoyed several meals and entertainment.<br />
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The Langford Recreation centre located between the two Westin hotel buildings, has a heated outdoor pool and offers year-round aqua-fit classes. The hotel’s award-winning spa services offer massages, body treatments and facials drawing from elements of nature to enhance your well-being, offering a full array of spa treatments, relaxation and renewal.
While one of my friend indulged in a full spa treatment at the hotel, we others swam in the warm pool at the Rec Centre, enjoying the lush ambience surrounding the outdoors, and a soak in the hot tub.<br />
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The area surrounding the resort is popular for bikers and hikers and the Rec centre provides bike rentals. We walked around the quiet trails that overlook the lush greens of the golf course, enjoying the quiet solitude of the woodland. One afternoon two of us decided to drive to Victoria to visit the museum, a quick and easy jaunt from the resort.<br />
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We couldn’t have enjoyed our weekend stay more. The Westin Bear Mountain Resort is an excellent get-away for all the family whether you’re a golfer or just want to relax and enjoy nature.<br />
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<b>IF YOU GO </b><br />
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The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa, Victoria\1999 Country Club Way, Victoria BC V9B6R3
Toll-Free: 1 -800-WESTIN-1
Victoria: (250) 391-7160
www.westin.com/bearmountain<br />
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North Langford Recreation Centre
Tel: 250-391-3758
Rec@bearmountain.ca
www.bearmountain.ca<br />
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On special holidays there is entertainment such as Bear Mountain Music, Halloween Festivals, Canada Day BBQ and the Bear Mountain Run, held for times a year.
Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com193tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-47126642262018752092017-12-27T17:59:00.000-08:002017-12-27T17:59:58.452-08:00A YEAR'S TRAVEL RECAP 2017<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://travelthroughhistory.blogspot.com"><img src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" /></a>
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to do much traveling this year because of a move mid-year to a new, more comfortable lodging. For most of the year I was working on a travel ebook of the Greek Islands for an American publisher (under contract), the same one who published my ebook ATHENS AND BEYOND. Because of the unpleasant situation in my apartment I couldn't do much other writing though I did accomplish publishing a couple of travel articles on EuropeUpClose.com Just when I was nearly finished the Greek Islands book the publisher suddenly disappeared and refused to respond to any of my emails. Consequently I have shelved the project and will consider doing it as an ebook myself some time in the future. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWLouF6RdfUECQCHxZ9_O42fgjupIhJ37bnarPU1uZcGF8ItEeHUlvTLZ3iXrP9j96ipW-fqjg7EE0gEyK6oN6wc4CBrNXlfxS0ZqjEyib5du6Us-JNcunPbiGCwntA2F9mvS/s1600/51VLqP6yHjL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWWLouF6RdfUECQCHxZ9_O42fgjupIhJ37bnarPU1uZcGF8ItEeHUlvTLZ3iXrP9j96ipW-fqjg7EE0gEyK6oN6wc4CBrNXlfxS0ZqjEyib5du6Us-JNcunPbiGCwntA2F9mvS/s320/51VLqP6yHjL.jpg" width="200" height="320" data-original-width="313" data-original-height="500" /></a></div>
Once I got moved I was able to focus on travel and managed a three week trip direct to Athens. I spent three days on Naxos at the Maragas camping where I love to stay in the bed-tents. Then I took the fast ferry to Iraklion, Crete where I met with a writer/mentor friend who is an expert on the Minoans. Dr Jack Dempsey and I have been communicating since the 1990's but this was our first in-person meeting. This made my visit in Iraklion special. I also enjoyed a return to Knosses where I'd been a couple of times in the 1980's. Jack and I met at the famous Lion Fountain and then went to the Venetian Harbor for a seafood lunch and a wonderful long chat.
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I went out to Knossos on the hop-on-hop off bus. It had started to rain but as we arrived the rain stopped so I had a pleasant afternoon wandering the archaeological site. It's expanded a lot since my last visit and I enjoy seeing everything but it would be so much fun to visit again with Jack!
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Most of the wall paintings and artifacts are now safely protected and stored in the Archaeological Museum which is definitely worth a visit. I went there the next day, again on the bus, and also stopped by to pay my respects at the grave of writer Nikos Kazanzakis which is up on the city wall.
Back in Athens I visited the lovely new Niarchos Centre where there is an opera house, theatre, library, computer room, vast gardens and green spaces all for the pleasure of the Athenians.
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I also took several days to visit my friend on Salamina where we always enjoy exploring archaeological sites. My favorite is the monument to the soldiers of the Greek/Persian sea war which is located on the tumulus of the dead soldiers.
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I spent most of time in Athens doing readings from my historical novels at the Canadian Institute, Athens Centre and Athens Community School. I always love visiting Athens and look forward to returning in 2018 for a longer time.
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So the year has drawn to a close. I'm looking forward to more travels in 2018. Some of them may be local jaunts as there's lots of interesting things to see around the Province where I live on the West Coast of Canada. But my main focus will be returning to Greece via England, Wales and a visit to Germany to see family and friends.
Safe and happy travels to everyone in this coming year!
Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com87tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-23849210408040520642017-09-19T14:20:00.000-07:002017-09-19T14:20:59.230-07:00HERE WE GO AGAIN! OFF TO GREECE FOR THREE WEEKSThis year's vacation is much shorter than usual. That is because of a very stressful last year and an eventual move to a new quieter, cleaner and friendlier home. A lot of expense involved which ate up some of my travel funds, so three weeks will have to make do.<br />
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As it turns out, it will be mainly a writing trip with three readings of my novels lined up in Athens at the Canadian Institute, Athens Centre and readings to two classes at the American Community School. I have read for these venues before and really look forward to returning.<br />
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My two-volume novel SHADOW OF THE LION </div>
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Reading at the ACC in 2015</div>
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My first stop after arriving in Athens on September 22 will be NAXOS where I plan to spend three days lounging on my favorite beach at my favorite campsite, Maragas Camping.</div>
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The bed-tents at Maragas Camping </div>
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Maragas Beach</div>
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Lounging on a beach chair.</div>
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Beach Tarverna, Plaka Beach</div>
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the walkway across to the Portada at Naxos port.</div>
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Next I'm going to Crete. I intended to go last year and had to cancel my plans. This time I'm going for three days to visit Knossos archaeological site and a few historic locations around Iraklion. I will also be visiting with my American professor writer/mentor friend Jack Dempsey who writes about the Minoans.</div>
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Iraklion harbor</div>
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A visit to the grave of writer Nikos Kazanzakis.</div>
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KNOSSOS</div>
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MINOAN WALL FRESCOES.</div>
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After my visit to Crete I will return to Athens and later go to Salamina to visit my friend. Whenever I'm there we have many adventures seeking out archaeological sites that many people don't know about. We've been to the site where they were looking for a monument to Ajax, hero of the Troy Wars; Ajax's acropolis, the Cave of Euripides and several other sites. I wonder what exciting finds we'll see this year!</div>
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The final week in Greece will be exciting because I've been offered a free two-day stay GLAMPING in a Yurt, near Kalamata in exchange for writing a story about it. So look at this blog space in a few weeks and you'll see what it's like to go glamor-camping in a yurt!</div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-11571692011461321452016-08-23T17:49:00.003-07:002016-08-23T17:49:56.739-07:00A RETURN TO THE CYCLADES AND CRETE<img alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" src="https://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" /><span style="color: black;">I usually try to go to the island of <b>NAXOS</b> when I'm visiting Greece, because it's my favorite island. This year is no exception, however I've decided to also stop at <b>PAROS</b>. Aside from a weekend a long time ago when I went to babysit a friend's little boy while she performed at a taverna, I've never spent time on that popular island. I've heard so much about this island from other people, I figured it was time to explore it myself.</span><br />
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<b>PAROS</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;">I've only got a couple of days booked on <b>Paros</b> but it should be enough to see a few of the sights although I have quite a list of options. An interesting thing is that the town of<b> Parikia</b> where I will be staying used to be a Minoan city back in the 1400 BCs. Later, in 338 BC it was taken over by King Philip II of Macedonia (Alexander's father), followed by the Romans.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">There's a wide choice of things to see and beautiful beaches to visit so my little stop-over should prove to be really interesting. I'll probably wish I'd booked more than two days there!</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">From Paros, I will go to <b>Naxos</b> which is very nearby. As always, I'm heading for <b>Maragas Camping</b>, and like last year I'm going to stay in one of the bed tents. These are quonset-hut type 'tents' with a bed and electricity inside and lots of room to walk around. I found it very comfy and it's cheap!</span><br />
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<b>NAXOS, Maragas Beach</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> <b>Spectacular Naxos Sunset</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">The beach there is just spectacular and there are some wonderful little tavernas along the beach where you can sit and watch the sunset. Besides that you can take the bus into town and there's lots to see including the Venetian Castle, the Portala (doorway of the Temple of Apollo) and many other things. Naxos has a very interesting history and I've been on the round-the-island tour a number of times. It's a big island, with mountains and lots of greenery as well as those gorgeous beaches. It's the island where, in the myths, Theseus landed with Ariadne, the princess of Knossos after they had left Crete when the volcanic explosion on Santorini drove them all away. Unfortunately Ariadne ran off with the celebrants of Dionysos and that's the last Theseus saw of her. This time when I'm there I must remember to visit that particular sanctuary and see if I can conjur Ariadne's spirit.</span><br />
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<b>MARAGAS BEACH CAMPING</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Last year when I was on Naxos I wrote a lot of poems while on the beach and one of them was about Ariadne.I am hoping the Muse is with me this time too. I find if a very inspiring island!</span><br />
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<b>IRAKLION, CRETE </b></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> <b>IRAKLEON, MOROSINI FOUNTAIN</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">From Naxos I take the ferry to <b>Crete</b>. I'll stop a couple of days in <b>Iraklion</b> in order to see the sights there which will include the <b>Palace of Knossos</b> famous from Minoan times. There is so much to see in Iraklion and other parts of Crete that I may decide to extend my time there because it's worth spending time. I've visited Crete on a couple of other occasions but not for a few years, so it's going to be fun to return. </span><br />
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<b>THE PALACE OF KNOSSOS</b></div>
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<b>MINOAN ARTIFACTS AND PAINTINGS</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Eventually I'll head back to <b>Athens</b> and then a lot of new adventures will take place. Among those I am hoping that I can do some book readings as the second volume of SHADOW OF THE LION is supposed to be published in October. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><i>NOTE: photos of Paros and Irakleon from Wikipedia</i> </span>Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com382tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-11111427655016531712016-08-23T12:38:00.003-07:002018-01-31T15:08:24.733-08:00MAKING TRIP PLANS, 2016<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://travelthroughhistory.blogspot.com"><img alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" src="https://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" /><span style="color: black;"><b>ENGLAND AND THE IONIAN ISLANDS</b></span></a><br />
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<span style="color: black;">I've started to verify and plan my trip to Europe this year which will begin September 4 when I fly to London. From there I will go right away to <b>Caerphilly, Wales</b> to spend a couple of days visiting with my cousins and touring my castle. It's a quick trip due to me having to take advantage of cheap air fares.</span><br />
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<b>Caerphilly Castle</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> <b>Windsor St. Where my Dad used to live.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">On Sept. 7 I'll head into <b>London</b> again, early, in time to take in a special exhibit at the British Museum. I'm really excited about seeing EGYPT'S LOST WORLDS, which are artifacts found under the see, some off of Alexandria which was the city founded by Alexander the Great and occupied but the first Ptolemaic dynasty of Egypt.</span><br />
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<b>The British Museum</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Early the next morning I fly to <b>Corfu, </b>my first stop in the <b>Ionian Islands</b> off the west coast of Greece. I was only there briefly back in the early '80's so I wanted to spend a few days there as Corfu has an interesting history with lots to see. I've check out the tours and will try and take one of them so I can see as many of the special sites as possible. This will include the palace where Prince Philip was born and the home of the Durrell brothers of literary fame.</span><br />
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<b>Corfu, Kerkyra</b></div>
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<b>Mouse Island </b></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> <b>Kerkyra</b></span></div>
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black;">I'm staying on Corfu for 3 days then taking the quick ferry over to the tiny island of <b>Paxis </b>where I'll spend two days exploring. There are a couple of interesting museums and a Venetian Kastro on an islet off shore that was reputedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci. </span><br />
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<b>Paxi, Gaia</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> <b>Paxi harbour</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">From Paxi I must take a ferry to the mainland and then a bus to <b>Lefkada </b>where I'll head south to the town of Vassiliki (the surf-boarders paradise). Not sure yet if I'll spend a night there. It depends on the ferry service onward to <b>Kefalonia </b>where I will visit the seaside town of Fiscardo, established and named for a famous pirate. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">From there I will head by bus to <b>Athens</b>, and will stop there to visit friends for a few days before heading on another island adventure, this time to the islands of <b>Paros</b> and <b>Naxos</b>. I decided to stay two days on Paros as it is another island that I've only visited briefly back in the '90's.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black;">My favorite island is <b>Naxos</b>, so I'll stay there five days in a bed-tent at the <b>Maragas Camping</b>, a campsite and beach that I just love going to. I never get tired of visiting Naxos as it's a big island and lots to see besides having the most fabulous beaches! I can hardly wait to have my dinner at one of my favorite sea-side tavernas there to watch the sunset!</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">From Naxos I will head south to <b>Crete. </b>I haven't been to Crete since the '80's and wanted to see the Minoan site of Knossos again as well as exploring around <b>Iraklion</b>. I'll be there a couple of days and hope to get up to a mountainside resort owned by a FB friend.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">When all my Cretan adventures are over, I head back to <b>Athens</b> and that's where I'll be for the month of October, until the 20th when I head back home. There's lots to see and do in my favorite city besides visiting with my friends. I'll go over to <b>Salamina</b> island for a few days to explore with Christina and probably make a few day trips around If finances enable it, I might even go up to <b>Pelion</b> for a few days as I've been wanting to explore that area for quite some time now. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><b>Some of my Athens friends</b> </span></div>
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<b>Zoe and me</b></div>
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<span style="color: black;"> <b>Carola, Christina and Kim</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">I'll be posting along the way and sharing all my adventures with on-line friends and family. So stay tuned for the next installment! </span>
IF YOU WANT FURTHER INFO ON SAVING MONEY WHILE YOU TRAVEL CHECK THESE LINKS.
A little bit more information about our guide: It breakdowns when a no foreign transaction credit card makes sense for travellers, their benefits, as well as strategies to save money when traveling abroad. You can see our work here:
https://creditcards.usnews.com/no-foreign-transaction-fee
https://creditcards.usnews.com/no-foreign-transaction-fee#what-are-foreign-transaction-fees
https://creditcards.usnews.com/no-foreign-transaction-fee#choosing-card-no-foreign-transaction-fee
https://creditcards.usnews.com/no-foreign-transaction-fee#best-credit-cards-with-no-foreign-transaction-fee
Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-18495483042803152742016-07-30T13:32:00.003-07:002016-07-30T13:32:46.962-07:00MEMORIES OF ALL THE FUN I HAD IN GREECE (Sept/Oct 2015)I didn't do much blogging after I got back from last year's trip to Greece and here it is, time to embark on another. So while looking through my photos I came across many of the adventures I enjoyed, from the islands to visiting archaeological site and hanging out with my friends.<br />
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<b>Maragas Camping, Naxos</b></div>
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<b>The most beautiful beaches!</b></div>
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<b>A margarita for lunch at the Picasso Beach Taverna</b></div>
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<b>Spectacular Naxos sunset</b></div>
I started my holiday adventures on my favorite island NAXOS, at my favorite spot, Maragas Camping, Agia Ana. The most fabulous beach, and fun staying in a bed-tent for three days.<br />
Then I moved into a lovely pension in the town with a room right by pool-side.<br />
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<b>The "Something Else" Pension</b></div>
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<b> </b>There's lots to see on the island of Naxos and I like to go back there every time I visit Greece. </div>
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<b>The walk out to the "Portada" </b></div>
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<b>The Portada "Apollo's Temple"</b></div>
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<b>I love the Venetian influence on Naxos with these vaulted streets. </b></div>
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<b> </b></div>
Then, back to Athens, an on to many more adventures. These included a couple of day trips with friends, a visit to the island of Salamina, an afternoon at the Temple of Poseidon, Sounion, and many others. Here's a sample of a few of them.<br />
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<b>The Corinth Canal</b></div>
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<b>A day trip to the Peloponnese: Fish farms</b></div>
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<b>The small ancient theatre of Epidaurus.</b></div>
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<b>The Big Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus</b></div>
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Then some trips around Athens and the mainland. There is so much to do there and many choices of where to spend your time. You really need to allow for this when you visit Greece.</div>
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<b>Athens, the Acropolis</b></div>
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<b>The Temple of Poseidon, Cape Sounion</b></div>
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<b> The Temple of Poseidon </b>(try to get there for sunset!)</div>
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One day I made a trip to Marathon, where the famous battle took place between the Greeks and the Persians. This is where today's marathons begin, just as the runner who bore the news of the Greek victory ran from there to Athens (and then died of exhaustion!) </div>
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<b>Grave mound of the fallen warriors</b></div>
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<b>Marathon, monument for the runners</b></div>
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Then I made a trip to Salamina island, also the scene of a famous naval battle between the Greeks and Persians. My friend Christina lives there so we always go exploring and this year was a very special archaeological adventure!</div>
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<b>Monument to the fallen warriors </b></div>
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<b> Monument for the Battle of Salamis</b></div>
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I had heard from my friend about a cave up on the mountain where the dramatist Euripides had once lived. I was determined to make the climb up there, and I did! (It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be!) </div>
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<b>The Cave of Euripides</b></div>
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<b> </b>It wasn't all Archaeology on this trip. I even did a reading of my historical novel SHADOW OF THE LION: BLOOD ON THE MOON at the Canadian Institute. </div>
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Then there was more exploring and having fun. </div>
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<b>somewhere around the Agora</b></div>
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<b> along one of the old walled areas of ancient Athens.</b></div>
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<b>my travel buddies</b></div>
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<b>My Athens pals!</b></div>
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And most of all I love hanging out with my Athens pals. This year there will be lots more adventures too and I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone and being there, in Athens, my second home, and exploring Greece, my favorite place to be! <b> </b></div>
Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-65022218047925662372016-07-28T20:58:00.000-07:002016-07-28T20:58:46.961-07:00A FEW LOVELY DAYS IN MALAGA, SEPT 2015I've been remiss in posting blogs since I learned that had to move in January and things got a bit hectic from then til moving day April 1. Now that I'm settled in my new place, things are getting back into my usual routines of writing. I'm finishing up old tasks and have been working on a new e-book for Hunter Publishing, a guide to the Greek Islands. And in just a few more weeks I'll be departing on another trip overseas, this time to mainly visit some of the islands as well as my friends in Athens.<br />
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First, though, I decided to post a few photos and memories of MALAGA, SPAIN, a city that I really fell in love with and would like to think I could return some day. I spent three days there last September visiting my friends Carlos and Natalia and had a wonderful time. Here's a few of the highlights.<br />
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My first panoramic view of the city convinced me it was going to a place I'd love to explore.<br />
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Malaga is one of the oldest cities in the world, first settled by the Phoenicians in about 770 BC. They called it <i>Malaka </i>because of the fish that was salted at the harbor. Later it fell into the hands of the Greeks, then the Romans until the Moors took over. It was under Islamic rule for 800 years. So there are many ruins in Malaga which interested an archaeology buff like me.<br />
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<b>The Roman Theatre dates from the 1st century BC</b></div>
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In te 8th century AD when the Muslim Arabic rule took over, the city became in important trade centre. The Moors left behind some outstanding structures, mainly the Castle of 'Gibralfaro which is connected to the Alcazaba the lower fortress and royal residence.</div>
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<b>The Fortress</b></div>
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<b> Walking up to the Alcazaba</b></div>
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The Alcazaba was built on a quadrangular plan, protected by an outer and inner wall supported by towers,between which a covered walkway led up the slope to the Gibralfaro Castle. It's an enjoyable trek up with some good panoramic views as a reward, plus a stroll through some lovely gardens.</div>
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Besides the archaeological sites of Malaga there are many other interesting places to explore. We wandered through plazas where people were enjoying an afternoon drink of wine and tapas, we passed by some old Churches and market squares, and down palm-lined pathways. There are various museums including the Pablo Picasso Museum and I even had my photo taken with him! And, we visited the old bodega (wine shop) in Malaga. That was very interesting! Barrels and barrels of wine </div>
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<b>Pablo and me</b></div>
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<b>The Oldest Bodega in Malaga</b></div>
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Of course there were the days by the seaside as well and a trip to the nearby resort town of Bandalmadena. It was crowded with tourists as are most of the seaside resorts near Malaga. If you've ever visited there you'll understand why it's a place that attracts so many tourists. I loved it! </div>
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<b>Bandalmadena</b></div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-75891361394216630242016-01-03T12:49:00.001-08:002016-01-04T15:47:23.943-08:00TOURING AROUND TORREVIEJA<br />
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My travel writer friend Inka invited me to visit her in Spain last September. She lives in Torrvieja, a lovely seaside city on the Costa Blanca. The name of the town comes from the original ancient guard tower (<i>Torre Vieja</i> meaning Old Tower) which once guarded the harbour. Torrevieja was originally a salt-mining and fishing village, located between two large salt lakes, one blue/green, the other pink, caused by the pigments and algae of the salty environment. The lakes are now an official nature reserve attracting a wide variety of bird life. The main attraction are the flamingos. Up to 2000 can be seen there during breeding season. Did you know that the flamingos turn bright pink from eating the shrimp from the salty water? The salt lake at La Mata lagoon produces pyramids of salt most of which is exported abroad.<br />
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During the 19th century, salt was shipped from Torrevieja. Salt and fishing are the major industries.<br />
Today Torrevieja is a popular resort for holidayers from England, France, Germany and Russia. A lot of Brits have retirement homes here.<br />
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Inka and I had fun exploring the sights. On my first day there we met up with our friend Darlene Foster, a Vancouver travel writer who lives nearby. We spent an excellent day touring the pirate's island of Tabarca, a short boat trip from Torrevieja. (see my previous blog).<br />
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The city itself has various interesting historical sites which we explored including the two main churches - the Hermitage (new) and the Virgin of Cenception (old).<br />
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The next day we got the bus to CARTEGENA, an old historical city famous from the Punic Wars. This is where Hannibal set off with is elephants on his journey to Rome.<br />
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Cartagena has been inhabited for over two millennia, founded in 227 BC by the Carthaginians. During the Roman Empire it was known as Carthago Nova (the New Carthage) and was one of the most important cities of the time because of its defensive port, one of the most important sea ports in the western Mediterranean. The city is now a major destination for cruise ships.<br />
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<b>Remains of the Punic Walls</b></div>
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There are a number of historical sites in the city. We visited the Roman Theatre and Punic Walls as well as Phoenician, Byzantine and Moorish remains including Casa Fortuna is a lovely old Roman villa.<br />
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<b>Roman Theatre</b></div>
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<b>Roman Villa</b></div>
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There are many things to see in Cartegena including 12 museums, several noteworthy churches and monuments as well as the archaeological sites. We walked along the Calle Mayor and admired the many beautiful art deco houses then relaxed at a cafe bar.<br />
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<b>A Delicious Lunch</b></div>
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The following day we took a bus to a small city nearby, Santa Palo. We walked through the town to see the old church and the 16th century castle. Unfortunately all the museums were closed. I'd have liked to see the Salt Museum but I did see the salt lakes and piles of salt heaped nearby.<br />
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<b>16th century Castle</b></div>
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<b>Seaside View</b></div>
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Our pleasant outing concluded with a nice lunch in a good restaurant (chorizo flambe in rum and potatoes with ali olli - garlic sauce).<br />
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It was a pleasant visit with my friend and I appreciated seeing all the sights of these interesting old cities.<br />
The next day I took the bus to Murcia and from there, another relaxing bus journey to Malaga where I'll stay a few days visiting my friends Carlos and Natalia.<br />
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<br />Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-12794039058069107772015-11-27T22:00:00.001-08:002015-12-02T14:45:24.438-08:00EXPLORING TABARCA, THE PIRATE'S ISLAND, SPAIN<a href="http://technorati.com/faves?sub=addfavbtn&add=http://travelthroughhistory.blogspot.com"><img alt="Add to Technorati Favorites" src="http://static.technorati.com/pix/fave/btn-fave2.png" /></a><br />
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If anyone mentions ‘pirates’ to me it immediately piques my
interest. So when my friend Inka<span style="text-align: center;">suggested that I might like to visit the pirate
island of Tabarca off the Coasta Blanca in Spain, I was more than interested.</span></div>
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We caught a boat from Torrevieja for the short, pleasant
cruise to the island, just a few nautical miles off shore. The island was once
known as Illa de Sant Paul (Saint Paul’s Island) because it is believed that
St. Paul disembarked here. For many years up to the 18<sup>th</sup> century it
was a refuge for Barbary pirates and part of the Republic of Genoa. Later it
was fortified by Charles III of Spain. Around that time, some Genoese sailors
were shipwrecked off the coast of Tunisia and rescued by islanders from
Tabarca. They settled there and people of Genoese descent can still be found
on the island. From 1770 the island was known as Nueva Tabarca (New Tabarca).<br />
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My two travel writer friends, Inka and Darlene and I
wandered around the old town and explored the shoreline and ruins. The island
was once fortified with walls, bulwarks, warehouses, a governor’s house and barracks.<br />
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The gateways are still there as are the Governor’s House (now a hotel) and the
church of St Peter and St Paul built in 1770. Later the garrison was removed
and by the end of the 19<sup>th</sup> century the island was populated by about
1,000 people, mainly fishermen. Tabarca is the smallest inhabited islet in
Spain. Today the population is around 50, although during the tourist season
there are up to 4000 people a day who arrive as visitors.<br />
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After seeing all the sights around the town, we stopped by a restaurant
for lunch, attracted by the ‘pirate’ who welcomed us inside.<br />
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<b>Inka meets the Pirate</b></div>
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We chose a table
on the terrace of the Nou Collonet, overlooking the sea and enjoyed a delicious
lunch from the menu of langostas y bogavantes, pescados and other traditional
Spanish cuisine. The island has several good restaurants as well as hotels for
overnight accommodations. <br />
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<b>Langostas</b></div>
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After lunch we hiked across the desolate grassy expanse to
the garrison ruins and the old lighthouse at the tip of the island. Tabarca is
a protected marine reserve for seabirds and various marine fauna. The sea
around the rocky shoreline is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. It was
declared a Marine Reserve in 1986, the first one in Spain. Boats to the island run
from Alicante, Torrevieja and Santa Pola. Some of them have glass bottoms so
you can view the reefs and sea life.<br />
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<b>Old Fortress</b></div>
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<b>Lighthouse</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I didn’t see any pirates on Tabarca other than
the one who welcomed us to the restaurant, but it was certainly an excellent
way to spend the day with my friends. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-57277291941397329672015-11-24T19:55:00.002-08:002015-11-24T19:55:47.288-08:00TREDEGAR HOUSE: Home of one of Wales Most Illustrious Families<br />
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<b>TREDEGAR HOUSE</b></div>
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It was the mention of the famous pirate Capt. Henry Morgan
that first sparked my interest when my cousin Nicola suggested we visit a
country manor in Wales. Although Capt. Morgan, for whom the famous rum was
named, was the son of one of the nine illustrious sons of the original owner of
this 17<sup>th</sup> century Charles II era country house, it somehow made the
visit more intriguing.</div>
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Tredegar House, near Newport Wales, was the home of the
Morgan family for over 500 years and later the home of the Lords Tredegar, one
of the most powerful and influential families in the area. The mansion is
surrounded by a landscaped garden of 90 acres and is one of the most
outstanding houses of the Restoration period in Britain. The earliest part of the building dates back
to the late 15<sup>th</sup> century but it’s been restored over the ages. It
was originally built of stone and later rebuilt with red brick.<br />
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The name Tredegar came from Tredegar Fawr, the name of the mansion
of the old Morgans who were descended from Cadifor the Great, the son of
Collwyn who owned the land where the mansion stands. It was occupied by the
Morgan family from about 1402. The earliest documented owner was Llewelyn ap
Morgan. The Morgans were one of the most powerful and influential families in
the area. In 1448 John Morgan was created a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre and was
rewarded for his support of King Henry VII. Around 1490 he commissioned the
building of a new house at Tredegar, though a wing of the original stone manor
house still exists. The newer palatial house was visited by Charles I and his
retinue during the 1600’s. </div>
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We walked through the gardens and passed through the high
ornate Edney Gates to get into the building. The gilded gates were built
between 1714 and 1718 for John Morgan and are an example of early 18th century
decorative wrought ironwork. Just past the gates is the Stable Block which
housed the many horses owned by the family. <br />
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<b>The Edney Gates</b></div>
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Once inside the palatial mansion, the docent showed us the
way to proceed through the various rooms, all furnished in the style of the
period with oil paintings on the walls. In one of the rooms there was a large
oil painting of Godfrey Morgan who fought in the Charge of the Light Brigade.
He is pictured with his famous steed, Sir Briggs. Morgan, age 22 and Captain in
the 17<sup>th</sup> Lancers, and his horse survived the battle. They lived at Tredgar house until the horse’s
death at the age of 28. Sir Briggs was buried with full military honours in the
Cedar Garden of Tredgar House. There were luxurious bedrooms with decorative
furnishings, everything laid out as if the rooms were still occupied by the
ladies and gentlemen of the family. In the dining room there was even food displayed
on the tables to illustrate the sumptuous feasts that were served there.</div>
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Every room we visited had display of the history of this
illustrious family, throughout the generations.<br />
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<b>Godfrey Morgan and Sir Briggs</b></div>
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<b>The Dining Room</b></div>
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The Morgans were a renown
family. Besides the infamous Caribbean privateer, Henry (Sir Harri) Morgan who
began as an admiral of the Royal Navy, there are many tales of ill-fated
marriages, riotous parties, war heroism and even the dark arts. The docent
hosts at the house related some of these tales to us as we walked through the
various room.<br />
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We visited the servant's quarters and kitchens which were reminiscent of the popular TV series Downton Abbey. There some of the secrets of the servants were revealed including concealed drawers full of spices and a silver safe that was always protected by a guard.<br />
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<b>Buzzers for calling servants</b></div>
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<b>Kitchen</b></div>
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<b>Head Servant's quarters</b></div>
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Eventually the family's financial assets were depleted through their extravagant lifestyle and the eccentricities of the owners. The last Baron of Tredegar, John Morgan, died childless in 1962 at aged 54. His death was the end of the Morgans of Tredegar. In 1951 the house was stripped and the contest auctioned. It was turned over the National Trust and refurbished in 2012. </div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-39426850440352320372015-11-13T15:38:00.001-08:002015-11-14T09:53:13.181-08:00A VISIT TO ‘MY’ CASTLE, CAERPHILLY WALES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Caerphilly Castle</b></div>
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Every time I visit my dad’s home in Caerphilly Wales, I
spend at least a day ‘inspecting’ my<i> </i>castle.
If you wonder why I’ve laid claim to this famous castle, built back in 1271 by
the English chieftain Earl Gilbert de Clare, it’s because I grew up hearing
stories from Dad who used to play inside it when he was a boy. From the first
time I actually saw the castle back in the mid ‘70’s up until now, I feel I
‘own’ a piece of it and thus I have chosen to refer to it as <i>my castle!<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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Earl Gilbert de Clare’s castle was besieged by Llewelyn,
Prince of Wales, back in the late 1200s and Henry III stepped in to enforce a
truce after which Earl Gilbert regained possession of the castle.</div>
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It was again attacked in 1316 during a revolt by another
Welsh lord, Llewelyn Bren. During the 15<sup>th</sup> century it fell into
decay and it wasn’t until 1929 that it was restored by the Marquises of Bute. It’s
one of the best preserved castles in Wales and is now protected by the
Department of Environment.</div>
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The castle has many stories to tell. In one big room there is a tapestry hanging
on the wall depicting three women who were noted inhabitants. The first is <b>Alice de Lusignon</b> (1236-1290) the first wife of Gilbert de Clare.
As he was away at war much of the time, the lonely queen found comfort in the
arms of a local knight. When Gilbert found out he had the knight hanged and annulled
his marriage to Alice. In despair she left off the castle walls. It is her
ghost who is said to haunt the castle.</div>
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I published a story about this famous myths, the Green Lady,
a tale that has intrigued me since I first began to visit Caerphilly castle.
I’m always aware of her apparition each time I go, watch for her on the walls
on a moonlit night, ‘feel’ her presence as I wander the narrow stone
passageways and enter the big empty palace rooms.</div>
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<a href="http://www.europeupclose.com/article/the-green-lady-of-caerphilly-castle/">http://www.europeupclose.com/article/the-green-lady-of-caerphilly-castle/</a>
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The second woman is <b>Joan
of Acre</b> (1272-1307) daughter of Edward 1 who became Gilbert de Clares wife
in 1290. After bearing him four children, Gilbert died so her father arranged a
second marriage but against his wishes she married a commoner, a knight named
Ralph de Monthermen who later the king grew to like and accepted the marriage.<br />
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<b>Eleanor de Clare</b>
is the third woman pictured in the tapestry (1292-1337). She was the daughter
of Gilbert and Joan. After Gilbert died the castle was bequeathed to his 3 sons
but while they were away the castle was besieged by Llewelyn Bren and under
Eleanor’s it was successful held out til help arrived. She also survived an
unhappy marriage to a dangerous and disliked husband and an imprisonment in the
Tower of London.</div>
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As you stroll around the long passages and up the winding
stairways you’ll see different displays and art work telling the castle’s
history. And out front, beside the moat there is an interesting display of
siege equipment. </div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-73467052335399908382015-11-09T16:14:00.000-08:002015-11-09T16:14:41.132-08:00A RAINY DAY WALK IN THE COTSWOLDS<br />
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On an overcast day late August in London, I joined a London's Walks touring group to spend the morning and afternoon walking in the Cotswolds. We met our friendly host/guide Richard at Paddington Station at 9.30 then boarded the train for a pleasant journey to Oxford where we transferred onto a touring coach to drive through the quaint towns of the Cotswolds, some dating from the 1400 - 1700s.<br />
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The Cotswolds is an area in south central England roughly 25 miles (40km) across and 90 miles (145 km) long stretching from the south-west just south of Stratford-on-Ave, south to Bath. The name, "Cotswolds" is attributed to mean "sheep enclosure in rolling hillsides" (<i>wold </i>meaning "hill"). However this is contested and usually the name is accepted to be derived from <i>Codesuualt, </i>or variations such as "Cod's-wold" which means "high open land" <br />
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There are remains of Bronze and Iran Age forts in the area and later the Romans built villas there. During the Middle Ages the Cotswolds became prosperous from the wool trade and the area is still populated with sheep farms. Today many of the Cotswolds homes and estates are occupied by wealthy Londoners or retirees.<br />
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<b>The home of Graham Greene, author</b></div>
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We drove through many of the lovely towns and at some we stopped to walk around. At Chipping Camden when we stopped for lunch it took me ages to find a dining place that wasn't full of people and by the time I did, I only had ten minutes left to down a bowl of soup and some yam friends. Then it was back to the coach until we were let off again at Lower Slaughter. From there we walked in the misty rain across the fields to Upper Slaughter.All along the way our friendly, informative guide, Richard, told us stories and interesting anecdotes.<br />
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The entire day, in spite of the rain, was pleasant though by the time I'd walked the six miles around and to villages, my feet were soaked and sore. It was worth the effort though and I'd recommend this walk to anyone who likes the countryside.<br />
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<br />Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-54037675543737352672015-08-15T11:56:00.000-07:002015-08-15T11:56:28.425-07:00RETURNING TO THE OLD FAVORITES AND EXPLORING THE NEWI've been doing my usual pre-trip research and looking into various 'new' destinations in Greece. Each time I visit there I like to see at least one new place as well as visiting my old favorites.<br />
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For certain I'll be returning to Naxos and to Maragas Beach where I have spent many happy times camping. I missed going there last year so this time I plan on trying to spend a week at the beach. I won't be toting my little crawl-into tent though. I've decided to rent a bed-tent and give that a try. If it doesn't prove comfortable I can always opt for a room. This is one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever visited and I just love being there, swimming, relaxing and having my usual beach picnic, and watching the gorgeous Naxos sunset.</div>
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<b>Maragas Beach</b></div>
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Naxos is a very interesting island with a Venetian influence. I've done the round-the-island tour several times and always enjoy it. And spending an afternoon exploring the old Venetian castle is always fun.</div>
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<b>Venetian Castle</b></div>
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<b>Venetian style vaulted streets</b></div>
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<b>Great seafood tavernas</b></div>
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<b>Exploring the island's villages</b></div>
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<b>Visiting the island's Kitron brewery (a traditional drink made from lemons) </b></div>
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I've written a few stories about Naxos, one in particular about camping there.</div>
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<a href="http://www.europeupclose.com/article/camping-solo-maragas-beach-naxos-greece/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:+Europeupclose+%28EuropeUpClose.com%29" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">http://www.europeupclose.com/article/camping-solo-maragas-beach-naxos-greece/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:+Europeupclose+%28EuropeUpClose.com%29</a><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">
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<b>Maragas Beach Camping </b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">One place I've always been curious about is the <b>Pelion Peninsula</b>. This is the legendary home of the Centaurs and has been occupied since the Bronze Age. There are many quaint villages in this mountainous area as well as some loved beaches. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I have been investigating a traditional village called Tsangaradha which is not too many miles from the main port of Volos and a bit inland from the sea (with sea views). Another choice might be Zagora where there is an ancient castle ruin. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Both these villages are accessible from Volos by bus. I could easily visit both too as they are not far apart. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">My other choices were the island of Chios but, depending on finances (due to the current drop in the looney) I may not be able to afford going there this time as it's farther up north off the Turkish coast. There's some interesting villages on Chios which is the place where </span><i style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">mastic</i><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"> comes from, that resiny gum-like substance used for chewing or flavoring. </span></div>
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<b>Chios windmills</b></div>
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<b>The village of Pyrgi with it's unique architecture</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">No matter where my wandering leads me in Greece I know it will be another thrilling new experience and I'm sure to come away with happy memories and lots of new travel stories.</span></div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-49303553506977990132015-08-01T13:02:00.000-07:002015-08-01T13:03:26.987-07:00THOSE OLD FAMILIAR PLACES: ATHENS, Greece<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>My favorite perch above the rooftops of Plaka</b></div>
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I always look forward to returning to Athens,Greece to see my friends and all those old familiar places that I have grown to love as my own 'adopted' city/country. I made my first trip to Greece in 1979, arriving by bus to Thessaloniki (from London) and then by train to Athens. I fell in love with Greece immediately. It was almost as if I had lived there before and on that first trip, plus other trips since,<br />
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<b>Plaka at Night</b></div>
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<b>Lysicrates Monument by the "Dirty Corner" where we used to all hang out</b></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;">Stoa of Attalus in the Agora</b></div>
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I have had so many deja vu experiences it really does make me think I lived there in another lifetime. In fact, my Celtic novel DRAGONS IN THE SKY is a first person narrative of a Celtic girl who gets kidnapped and ends up in Greek Macedonia. In researching it I have discovered so many connections between the Celts and the Greeks. The whole idea of the novel (which I started writing in the '70's before I had actually visited Greece) was because my first historical novel, written when I was 17 in high school, had an Alexander the Great theme. I became fascinated with him when I was 16 and often people asked if I had lived in Greece before because I was able to write such vivid descriptions of the country and the characters.<br />
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<b>The Parthenon</b></div>
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On my first trip to Greece I went to the museum in Thessaloniki and saw all the grave finds from Vergina, allegedly Philip II, Alexander's father. (This may now be contested with the discovery of a second tomb). When I took the train down to Athens I sat with a middle-aged doctor who was very kind and welcoming and when I arrived in Athens he was very helpful and encouraging. I checked into a small hotel, The Tempi, in Plaka and thus began my exciting exploration of this amazing, historic city that I have grown to love.</div>
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<b>View of Lykebettos over the Plaka rooftops</b></div>
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I visited again the next couple of years and by 1983 I decided to fulfil a life-long dream and go to live in Europe. I had always thought it might be London I'd move to, but no, I KNEW it was Greece. So I found myself a home in Plaka and there I stayed tutoring ESL and enjoying a most fascinating life for the next five years. I regretted returning to Canada when I did in 1987 but later I went back to Greece, spending six months at a time while I was writing SHADOW OF THE LION. And since then I go nearly every year spending as much time as I can afford. I had always thought I'd return there to live, and almost did on a couple of occasions. And I still have that dream of living the rest of my retirement life there. But meanwhile I will be happy with my visits, each time exploring a new place in this wonderful country.<br />
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<b>A place where I love to sit and enjoy the view</b></div>
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<b>New Acropolis Museum</b></div>
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I have good friends in Greece and love to visit with them. I feel as at home in Athens as I do in Vancouver and in fact, when I return to Greece I feel my life 'changes', and I am more alive and happier than I am anywhere else. <br />
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<b>Monastiraki market district </b></div>
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<b>Dining at a favorite souvlaki shop in Monastiraki </b></div>
So, this September I once again return to my beloved country. It has been so sad what has happened to Greece due to the econimic strife all brought about by former politicians and dishonesty and now by the determination of Germany to control all of Europe, especially greece, through the banks. My friends there have been suffering terribly and I understand the terrible situation they have been put in. If my meagre tourist dollars can help I will do what I can and I encourage others to visit this most fabulous country too.</div>
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<b>Some of my Friends</b></div>
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<b>Anna owner of the To Kati Allo Taverna</b></div>
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<b>Anna's family, Dino (her son), grandson and husband Leonnatis</b></div>
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<b>NEXT: Exploring some new places in Greece.</b></div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-23700281999094261172015-07-30T15:29:00.000-07:002015-07-30T15:29:17.359-07:00EXPLORING NEW TERRITORY: Part 2 - MALAGA, SPAIN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A couple of years ago two Vancouver friend, Carlos and Natalia, moved to Malaga, Spain to open an ESL school. I decided that since I'll be in Spain visiting other friends, it would be nice to stop by to see them too.<br />
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Malaga is the second largest city in the Andalusia region of Spain on the Costa del Sol (population 538,479). It is one of the oldest cities in the world, founded by the Phoenicians around 770 BC. The name derives from the Phoenician <i>"malaka"</i> which meant "salt" because fish were salted near the harbour here. It was under Carthage's rule during the 6th century, later part of the Roman Empire. After Rome fell, it was under the Islamic domination until 1487. During the Arabic rule the city became an important trade centre. The city has Phoenician, Roman, Arabic and Christian era archaeological remains which interest me. </div>
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Several famous people were born in Malaga including Pablo Picasso, the Jewish philosopher/poet Solomon Ibn Gabirol and more recently, the actor Antonio Banderas. Cuban composer Ernesto Lecuona's famous <i>"Malaguena" </i>is named for the city. </div>
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Malaga has been named European Capital of Culture for 2016. There is lots to see and do in Malaga, besides the beautiful beaches (which Natalia has promised to take me to!). There are many interesting museums (at least 30) including the Picasso Museum and the Wine Museum. The baroque Cathedral "La Mangueta" has been newly restored. There is a Roman theatre, A Moorish Alcazaba fortress (with an archaeological museum) and panoramic views from the Gibralfaro Castle. </div>
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I'll only be there for a few days but I'll try to see as much as I can while I'm enjoying the company of my friends. </div>
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<b>NEXT: Back to my adopted home, GREECE </b></div>
Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-30758846861622090522015-07-29T10:55:00.001-07:002015-07-29T10:55:38.566-07:00EXPLORING NEW TERRITORY: Part 1 TORREVIEJA, SPAIN <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have visited Spain previously. On one of my first trips to Europe back in the '70's my friend Rosalie and I took our daughters with us on a camping adventure to Sitges with a day stop-over in Barcelona. Then, during the '80's when I was living in Greece, I met up with Rosalie and her friends in Spain and we went to Pamplona for the Running of the Bulls. On that trip we also spent a day in Barcelona exploring the Gaudi exhibits and Pablo Picasso museum. I've always wanted to go back and see more of the country. So this year, on my way to Greece, I am going to visit Spain again.<br />
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I'm flying from Cardiff to Alicante, a seaside resort city on the Cosa Brava. My friend Inka, also a travel writer, will meet me there and we will go to her home in Torrevieja. Inka says her apartment opens up right onto the beach! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Torrevieja is a seaside city on the Costa Brave about 30 miles from Alicante. It was originally a salt-mining and fishing village locate between the sea and two large salt lakes. The name "Torrevieja" means "Old Tower" as until 1802 it existed as only a guard tower and a few laborer's cottages. In 1803 King Charles IV ordered that the Royal Salt Works be moved to Torrevieja and this began the history of the town. It now has a population of about 104,000. Torrevieja is still a salt exporter and you can visit the Museum of Sea and Salt. It's popular with tourists from northern Europe who live there including a lot of Brits.<br />
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Inka promises to take me on a number of excursions. These will include a visit to a pirate's island. There is lots to see and do in the area and I'll try to squeeze as many adventures as possible into the 4 days I'll be there. Another travel writing friend, Darlene Foster, from Vancouver, lives nearby so I'll get chance to visit with her as well. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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www.torrevieja.com</div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-69750904566097121392015-07-26T14:53:00.001-07:002015-07-26T14:53:32.365-07:00TRIP PLANS 2015: LONDON, THE COTSWOLDS and CAERPHILLY WALES <div>
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<b>Houses of Parliament by the Thames</b></div>
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<b>Richard the Lionhearted</b></div>
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'm just starting to plan my travels for 2015, leaving here August 28 with my first stop being <b>LONDON.</b></div>
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I've been there so many times it's almost like returning 'home'. But each time I go I love to see new things (and there's lots to see in London!) This time I think I'll visit the Tower of London as I haven't been for some years. And of course I'll browse around all the old familiar haunts. I'll be staying at the Indian Y as usual (breakfast and dinner included) and it's right in the Bloomsbury area with a lot of historical houses including the one where Virginia Wolf lived which is right across the park from the Y. </div>
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<b>Queen Victoria monument</b></div>
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<b>The London Eye</b></div>
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I always go on the London Walks and this time I notice there is one called "The Cotswold Walk" which really interests me as I haven't been to the Cotswolds for years either. You meet a the Paddington train station and go from there for the day. These walks are always so much fun and this one sounds outstanding.</div>
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<b>THE COTSWOLDS</b> is an area in S. central England<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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roughly 25 mi (40K) across and 90 miles (145 Km) long just south of Stratford-on-Avon to just south of Bath. The name means "sheep enclosure in rolling hillsides" ("wold" meaning 'hills') The name is derived from the 12th century "Codesuualt" or "Cod's-wold" - Cod's is high open land (old English) or it could come from Brittonic name "Cuda" - a mother goddess in Celtic myth who was thoughtot reside int hat area. Cotswolds is famous for its honey-colored limestone villages. http://coswolds.com </div>
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<b>Caerphilly Castle</b></div>
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After that, I'll be heading to <b>WALES</b> to visit my cousins in <b>CAERPHILLY</b> (where my dad was from). I love going there and every time I do I visit 'my castle', the Caerphilly Castle, one of the most magnificent in the UK. I'll only be in Caerphilly for a couple of days before heading to Cardiff to catch a flight to Alicante, Spain where my friend Inka will meet me to take me to her home town farther along the south coast to Torrevieja. </div>
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<b>Me, in front of my castle.</b></div>
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<b>NEXT STOP: SPAIN </b></div>
Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12928238.post-33242470638598368312015-06-13T12:37:00.002-07:002015-06-13T12:37:13.524-07:00CASTLES ON THE RHINE AND A VISIT TO A MEDIEVAL TOWNOn my return home from Greece last October, I stopped for a few days in Mainz, Germany to visit my friend Patrick. I told him I'd like to see some of the Rhine Castles and he had arranged with his friends Wolfgang and Jurgen to drive us to several sites. We hopped on the train at Mainz and rode to a town nearby where Patrick's friends were waiting. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It happened to be a rainy day, but that wasn't going to stop us from having lots of fun. We drove along the scenic river enjoying the views of vineyards that grow up the steep banks and river boats plying they way upriver.Even in the rain the scenery was beautiful. </div>
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<b>Patrick, Jurgen and Wolfgang, my tour guides.</b></div>
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<b>Rhine vineyards</b></div>
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Our first stop was the <b>Sooneck Castle</b>, built on the ruins of a Medieval castle by Prussian princes as a neo-Gothic hunting lodge. The castle was constructed in 1282, destroyed in the Palatinate War of Succession in 1689, and acquired by Frederick William, Crown Prince of Prussia and his brothers in 1834.</div>
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<b>Sooneck Castle</b></div>
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An amusing little Russian guide named Leo greeted us as we entered and showed us through the various castle rooms. He explained all the artifacts on display from the long-bow hunting equipment to the bedrooms, which weren't actually slept in but more for show. </div>
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<b>Our Castle guide, Leo </b></div>
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<b>bedroom</b></div>
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<b>dining room</b></div>
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<b>crossbow for hunting</b></div>
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It was still raining when we left the castle but the weather began to clear by the time we reached the picturesque little Medieval town of Bacharach located where the Steeg Valley meets the Rhine Valley at a juncture near the old Roman road, Aosonius Way, which connected Mainz with Trier, branching off from the Roman riverbank road. The area was first recorded settled in 1094 bu probably was inhabited from antiquity. </div>
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<b>old gate entrance</b></div>
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<b>craftsman and his art</b></div>
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In the Middle Ages the town of Bacharach was an important outpost on the Middle Rhine, an economically prominent site as a place of transfer, trade and warehousing for wine and timber. We entered through a gateway in the original stone wall of the city. It was like stepping into a picture book, with quaint timbered houses and narrow streets, obviously these days a popular tourist site. </div>
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<b>The Church of St. Peter</b></div>
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<b>Interior of Church of St Peter</b></div>
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Located in the centre of Bacharach, the Church of St. Peter is dated between 1230/40 but has gone through numerous changes and renos. It has a baroque style sacristy and is one of the most unique examples of Romanesque architecture on the Lower Rhine. The Church is surrounded by courtyards and open-timbered houses, many from the late Middle Ages. The town's post office tower dates from the early 1400s.</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Above the church stands the ruins of the Chapel of St. Werner dating from the early 14th century and above that, stands Stahlick Castle, a fortified castle dating to the 12th century. </span><br />
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Before heading off to explore Stalick Castle we stopped in a quaint restaurant for a typical German meal of veal schnitzel and beer.</div>
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<b>On our way to Stahlick Castle</b></div>
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<b>Stalick Castle, towers over Bacharach</b></div>
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Today Stahlick Castle is used as a youth hostel. There were children frolicking in the courtyard wearing capes and sparring with pretend swords. </div>
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http://www.jugendherberge.de/en/youth-hostels/bacharach390/shortportraet </div>
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On our trip back we stopped at the ruins of another castle overlooking the river, where there is now a first-class hotel and restaurant built in its place. </div>
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<b>View of the Rhine River</b></div>
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<b>Remains of old castle</b></div>
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The views along the river were magnificent even through the mist. In spite of the weather, we had an excellent day exploring and enjoying the sites along the majestic Rhine. </div>
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<b> Sunset </b></div>
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<b>Town View</b></div>
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Wynn Bextonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08606284153866696343noreply@blogger.com9