Olympia, Greece

Travel Post #29: Olympia, Greece

Every four years people all over the world turn on the television to watch the Olympics with athletes competing in all sporting genres such as: cycling, water polo, gymnastics, swimming, skiing, basketball, table tennis, and the list goes on and on. Competitors battle head-to-head against opposing countries to take home the coveted gold, silver, and bronze medals. Young and old take part in the competitions as well as observe from the comfort of their own homes, local bars and even the fortunate few watch from right there in the arena; but this isn’t how it used to be…

Dating back further than 776 BC, competitions were held every Olympiad (4 years) including the first games held in honor of Zeus. –Hence the name “The Olympics”

The list of games played during the Olympics was a limited select few, unlike today’s ever changing and increasing list. Similarly, competitors had to qualify in order to complete in their sport of choice.

The site of the ancient Olympics was Olympia; a sanctuary with buildings associated with games and the worship of gods. The most celebrated was the Temple of Zeus, in this temple was a statue made of ivory and gold. (One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) In modern times, the location of each Olympics rotates around the globe. Previous host cities include: London, Tokyo, Antwerp, Paris, Amsterdam, Sydney, Athens, Barcelona, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Montreal, and many more…

Ancient spectators included Plato and Aristotle. Barbarians were among the audience, but not on the competition field. A competitor had to be a free, unpunished Greek and he had to have trained for the games in his home for ten months and for one month in Olympia. Slaves and women, on the other hand, were strictly forbidden to watch the games. If a woman, especially a married one, watched the games she was immediately thrown off Mt. Typaeon.

Modern day winners are adorned with a medal (gold, silver, bronze), but in ancient times the prize was an olive wreath from Zeus’s holy tree. Cheaters have been frowned upon since the ancient times. If an athlete is caught cheating now the media rips a hole in them and they are disqualified; previously cheaters were forced to finance a statue of Zeus where their names were displayed in dishonor.

Check Out Their Website: http://www.olympia-greece.org/

Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

Travel Post #28: Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque for the blue tiles adorning the walls of its interior, is in the largest city in Turkey (the capital of the Ottoman Empire). It was built between 1609 and 1916. Similar to other traditional mosques it comprises of a tomb of the founder, a madrasah, and a hospice. *Madrasah: Educational institute* Another notable feature of the Blue Mosque is that the mosque has six minarets, which is significant because most only have two or a maximum of four minarets. Cascading domes and beautifully decorated entrance ways simply take your breath away!

There are two facts that I found interesting about the Blue Mosque: 1: Non-worshippers are required to use the north entrance to preserve the mosque’s sanctity. 2: Hanging from the gate are symbolic chains that encourage everyone (even the sultan) who entered on horseback to how their head upon entering.

Directly across the street from the Blue Mosque, can you find Hagia Sophia. This is after you dodge all of the street vendors clad in their “genie-like” attire. You may be astonished to find out that this structure was once an Orthodox patriarchal basilica then it became a mosque and now a museum in the middle of Istanbul, Turkey.

As a child I grew up learning about Constantinople, but never did I imagine going to this mystical city. (Istanbul) In present time the city possesses the characteristics of two predominate cultures: Byzantium and Ottoman Empires. Hagia Sophia is a culmination of the two cultures under one ornate roof.

Check Out Their Websites: http://www.bluemosque.org/ and http://www.hagiasophia.com/

Ephesus

Travel Post #27: Ephesus

In the heart of Izmir, Turkey a historical wonder was erected in approximately 2000 BC. Ephesus was famed for the Temple of Artemis which is one the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Facts about Ephesus:

• In the 1st century BC, Ephesus was the second largest city in the world


• The temple was destroyed in 401 AD by a mob


• Emperor Constantine I rebuilt much of the city


• Partial destruction was caused by an earthquake in 614 AD


• Ephesus was one of the seven churches of Asia that are cited in the Book of Revelation


• Two main features are: the House of Love (Brothel) and the Library of Celsus


• One of the most magnificent buildings is the Great Theatre -- the largest in Asia Minor


• The Temple of Artemis has 127 ionic style columns with ornamented raised relief design


• The House of the Virgin is believed to be the location of where the Virgin Mary passed away

A few downfalls: Ephesus is unceasingly crowded with onlookers at all times. We struggled to take a family photo without having 10 other strangers peering into the camera as well. Uneven terrain makes it difficult to maneuver and the heat was unbearable during the month of May. BRING WATER! Oh, and what is up with the "paying to use the restroom" concept? Don't get me wrong, the historical landmark was well worth the battle of the fittest!

Check Out Their Website: www.ephesus.us

Florence, Italy

Travel Post #26: Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy has an extensive and eventful history. It has been considered one of the most important cities--culturally--for around 250 years. That is a mighty reputation to hold up! I personally have explored the city twice and left the second time still feeling like I did not see all that it had to offer.

Personal Favorite: Santa Maria del Fiore is the domed cathedral of the city known as The Duomo. It is the best-known site and "crowning architectural jewel" of Florence. During your visit you can climb to the very top of the dome to snap photos from the balcony (over 400 steps up a steep, crowded, and uncomfortable staircase.) I was clutching the railings the entire way up, but the view from the top is more than worth the anxiety induced climb.

Don't forget the gelato on the way up... and after your trip back down!

Other marvels to see in Florence:

• Ponte Vecchio--Michelangelo's David



• Battistero



• Palazzo Pitti



• Museo di San Marco



• Orsanmichele



• Forte di Belvedere

Check Out Their Website: www.duomofirenze.it/index-eng.htm

Trevi Fountain

Travel Post #25: Trevi Fountain


Make a wish! "In 19 B.C. Marco Vespasiano Agrippa decides to constrcut a long canal to feed the springs he developed near the Pantheon. The legend states that soliders were sent to research the water springs closest to Rome, who, while on assignment, met a young girl that led them to the pure springs. It is from this legend that the water gets its name the Virgin Water. During antiquity, a glass of the fresh, thirst quenching water from the Trevi Fountain was said to ensure good fortune and fast return to Rome.

Over the course of time, this practice was replaced with the tossing of a coin in the fountain. The precise tradition calls for one to throw the coin over one's left shoulder while standing with one's back to the Trevi Fountain. The Trevi Fountain today, contains a wide collection of international coins tossed by those travelers wishing to return to this distinctly romantic and wonderful place in Rome.

There is a second romantic ritual associated with the Trevi Fountain. This legend pertains to teh miniature fountain to the left side, known as the small fountain of lovers. According to the legend, couples that drink from the mini fountain will forever be faithful to their partner."

---Trevi Fountain located in Rome, Italy

Check Out Their Website: http://www.trevifountain.net/

Cozumel, Mexico

Travel Post #24:

Balneario! Snorkeling! Shopping!

Cozumel, Mexico is a frequently visited destination when aboard cruise ships leaving from Florida. As soon as ships dock people flood to the shopping and scheduled tours. I personally have stayed near the ship to enjoy the beach, shopped until I dropped, propped myself up at numerous local bars for my favorite drinks of choice, rented buggy to drive to a remote location for snorkeling… and the list continues. There is always something to keep you busy in Cozumel!



Shopping: Cozumel has been given a superlative rating (by me) when it comes to knock-off jewelry and Caribbean Topaz.



Snorkeling: Renting a beach buggy in port then driving out the Punta Sur to snorkel is an adventurous way to see the city. They will take you by a lighthouse that you can climb as well.



Ziplining: I actually went ziplining in Cancun, Mexico, but this audacious activity has become a wide-spread epidemic in Mexico. Numerous travelers all over Mexico strap into their gear and hit the ropes!

Cheers Boston

Travel Post #23:

“Makin' your way in the world today

Takes everything you've got

Taking a break from all your worries

Sure would help a lot

Wouldn't you like to get away?

All those nights when you've got no lights

The check is in the mail

And your little angel

Hung the cat up by it's tail

And your third fiance didn't show

Sometimes you wanna go

Where Everybody Knows Your Name

And they're always glad you came

You wanna be where you can see

Our troubles are all the same

You wanna be Where Everybody Knows Your Name”

Do these lyrics song familiar? That’s right; they are from Cheers the TV sitcom. The old Bull & Finch Pub starting making history on September 30, 1982 when Cheers aired for the first time on television. The rest is history…

While in Boston we stopped by Cheers for the atmosphere, beer, and food—of course. Live entertainment is frequently showcased at the restaurant and souveniours are jumping off the walls ready to be purchased. Here is a little taste of the menu: Ma Clavin’s Bahston Clam Chowda, Boston Baked Beans, Giant Norm Burger, Cliff’s More-Than-A-Grilled-Cheese, and Fenway Special.

Check Out Their Website: http://www.cheersboston.com/pub/

Leu Gardens

Travel Post #22: If you have a few moments to “stop and smell the roses” one afternoon, I would recommend spending that well deserved time at Leu Gardens.

Leu Gardens was started by Mr. and Mrs. Harry P. Leu in 1936. They traveled all over the world and brought back exotic plants and flowers for their beloved gardens. The gardens that started back in 1936 are frequently visited by Orlando residents and those stopping by during their travels.
At the gardens you will find azaleas, bamboo, bananas, camellias, citrus, Crepe Myrtle, herbs, perennials, vegetables and much more. The most aesthetically appealing section of Leu Gardens is the rose gardens. Many weddings and picnics take place in an open area nestled next to the roses and the butterfly garden.
History Behind the Rose Garden: “Mary Jane's Rose Garden is named after Mrs. Leu, whose favorite flower was the rose. She planted her first roses by the lake, and in 1944 a small rose garden was developed on the site where the current garden is located. Over 215 varieties and 650 roses are displayed in this garden.”

Check Out Their Website: http://leugardens.org/

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Travel Post #21: The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” This quote comes from Emma Lazarus' sonnet, New Colossus, which she wrote for a fundraiser auction to raise money for the pedestal upon which the Statue of Liberty now sits.

The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It was designed by Frederic Bartholdi. The statue, dedicated on October 28, 1886, was a gift to the United States from the people of France. Lady Liberty is a robed female figure representing the Roman goddess of freedom—Libertas. She bears a touch and a “tabula ansata” which has the date of the American Declaration of Independence inscribed on it. A broken chain lies at her feet.

Check Out Their Website: http://www.statueofliberty.org/

America’s “Golden Door” (Ellis Island)

America's "Golden Door" was the gateway for millions of immigrants to the United States. They came seeking freedom, opportunity, new lives. Over 12 million

immigrants passed through the doors of Ellis Island between January 1, 1892 and November 1954, hoping to achieve the "American Dream". These people, and their descendants, have woven their way into the fabric of American life. They have helped create the America we know today.

Things to Do:

· Self-Guided Tours: (3) floors of the Ellis Island Immigration Museum

· Movie: “Watch Island of Hope, Island of Tears”

· Passenger Search: Browse through records to trace the family name

Check Out Their Website: http://ellisisland.org/

No visit to New York City is complete without a trip to two of the world’s most famous historical landmarks—The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. New York harbor cruises are the best way to explore the landmarks for certain!

Nassau, Bahamas

Travel Post #20: Nassau, Bahamas

Atlantis:

• Aquarium: The 34-acre tropical marine habitat is home to over 200 species of live animals in 11 exhibit lagoons and pools.


• Dolphin Cay: The 11-acre, state-of-the-art home for dolphins and is one of the best and largest inland marine habitats in the world. Guests can personally meet, swim and interact with dolphins. It is a new home for 16 dolphins misplaced by Hurricane Katrina.


• Casino: Vibrant and colorful, the casino links the towers and spans a seven-acre lagoon with skylights and windows bringing the outdoors inside.

Check Out Their Website: http://www.atlantis.com/

Senor Frogs:

Company Profile: “If we were to take out a personal ad, we'd describe ourselves as fun, outgoing, energetic and good looking. The good looking part might be a stretch, but the other words fit us perfectly.”

Check Out Their Website: http://www.senorfrogs.com/

The Poop Deck:

The Poop Deck started out as a small marina restaurant serving hot dogs, hamburgers and cracked conch now it is home to weekly weddings and an overflowing menu packed with delicious entrees.

Check Out Their Website: http://thepoopdeckrestaurants.com/

Booze Cruise:

• On board the 'Bahamian Queen I' prepare to experience the best party time ever cruising along the beautiful turquoise sea of the Bahamas.


• During the cruise along Nassau Harbour we provide Unlimited Drinks, A Delicious Lunch and The Rhythmic Island Beats of The Bahamas for your comfort and pleasure.


• Along the way feel free to explore. Go snorkeling along the beautiful reefs and tour of the famous Sea Gardens. Afterwards we stop off at one of the many secluded beaches of The Bahamas.

Check Out Their Website: http://www.boozecruisebahamas.com/

Cancun, Mexico

Travel Post #19: Cancun, Mexico

Things to do in Cancun:

Beaches: “Naturally, the beaches are the biggest draw in Cancun with their soft, white sand and brilliant turquoise-blue water. Cancun's Hotel Zone is really just one long beach separated from the mainland by a system of lagoons.”

Dinner Cruise-Booze Cruises: “Come and live a fantastic adventure aboard the Galeon I andBucanero II, two 17th century authentic Spanish Galleon replicas that thanks Captain Hook you will enjoy with an entire night of games, exquisite food and an extraordinary pirate show. These spectacular galleons have 93 ft in length and can hold up to 350 passengers, where you will experience a real pirate environs but with the luxury and sophistication of the 21st century

technology.”

Cenotes: “The Yucatan peninsula was originally under the ocean and the region's limestone foundation is fossilized coral beds and ocean floor. There are no above ground rivers in this area. All of the ground water sinks through the porous limestone and travels to the sea in underground rivers. Parts of the limestone weakened over time and collapsed, leaving sinkholes filled with water - a cenote (pronounced: seh-NO-tay)."

The Maya used the cenotes for water - both for drinking and irrigation - and in religious ceremonies. Some of their cities were built around cenotes or wells dug down to the ground water. Divers have explored the cenote at Chichen Itza and have found offerings the ancient Maya made to the gods. Among them copper and gold necklaces, pottery, jade beads, and skeletons of both sexes and all ages.”

Golf: “Cancun has emerged as a world-class golf destination with the addition of thoughtful courses by top designers and now a tournament on the PGA Tour. Some courses offer all inclusive packages that include open bar, meals and even transportation, which can take the bite out of what can be considered pricey rounds of golf.”

Courses: Moon Palace, El CamaleonMayakoba, Cancun at Pok Ta Pok

Chichen Itza: “Only two and a half hours away from Cancun is one of the most impressive of all Mayan ruins, Chichen Itza. This is perhaps the most famous Mayan cultural site in the world, and one of the richest and largest archeological remnants of that civilization. Founded in 445 B.C., and inhabited until 1204 A.D. when it was mysteriously abandoned, Chichen Itza lies about 120 miles west of Cancun.”

Check Out Their Website: http://www.cancun.com/

The Colosseum

Travel Post #18: The Colosseum

Originally the Flavian Amphitheatre, the Colosseum is found at the center of Rome, Italy. This iconic mass is one of the most famous sights in all of Italy. Constructed nearly 2000 years ago, it was utilized for gladiatorial contests, public spectacles such as mock sea battles, animals hunts, dramas based on classical mythology and executions. During that time it was capable of seating 50,000 spectators! The floor is no longer in existence enables visitors to see down into the maze of rooms and hallways which were underneath the floor. This is where the gladiators, animals, and condemned prisoners were kept until they were raised by ancient Roman elevators.

Visiting this architectural and engineering wonder is a most when journeying through Rome, Italy!

Check Out Their Website: http://www.the-colosseum.net/

Amway Center

Travel Post #17: Amway Center

“This is unlike anything Orlando has ever seen. It will be unlike any arena ever built."

The Amway Center opened its doors in the Fall of 2010. This arena truly is a work of art! It is an architectural dream composed of a modern mix of metal and glass. The building’s exterior features an ever-changing video screen that looks over the interstate. With a capacity of more than 20,000 seats the arena is equipped to host extraordinary events. Seats range from the good ole nose bleed section to founders and presidential suites, loge seating, court side and superstar seating to MVP tables and hospitality suites. You can find it nestled next to Church Street Station-a popular Orlando hot spot.

Who calls this arena home? The Amway Center is home to the Orlando Magic, the Orlando Predators and welcomes the elite concert series, ice shows, hockey championships, indoor soccer, Olympic ice and track trials, professional bull riding, and much more.

Check Out Their Website: http://www.amwaycenter.com/