Follow this photographic journey around the coast of Bonaire:

Bonaire beach and cacti (featured at top)

Slavery is a common theme when studying the history of the Caribbean islands. Bonaire’s history is no different. The Spanish and the Dutch fought for years, with the latter eventually gaining control of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. Africans and Indians were used as labor with slaves living in quarters that were too short to stand in.

Former slave houses of Bonaire

Historically, salt production was the primary labor for enslaved inhabitants. The salt industry still exists today, and the solar salt farms along the southern part of Bonaire are used mostly for the creation of industrial salt. More important for visitors, the salt flats are a beautiful addition to the local landscape.

Salt flats of Bonaire

Miles of beaches covered in coral are found near the salt flats. Few venture into the waters of this area for swimming and much of it is uninhabited outside of a variety of birds and marine life. A lighthouse and its abandoned keeper’s house are a nice find for photographers.

Lighthouse

If you’re visiting Bonaire for diving or other water-related activities, a trip along the coast is a worthwhile addition to your stay. It’s only a short drive from the resorts. Alternatively, a day trip to Washington Slagbaai National Park, with its cacti, flamingos, and a sandy beach is a must.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

This press trip to Bonaire was courtesy of Tourism Corporation Bonaire.
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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya 

While this beautiful resort has everything you need for a short or long stay in Mexico, there are also lots of off-site activities available for couples and families. One activity we sampled was swimming with dolphins. If you’re planning a trip to Playa del Carmen, a stay at Grand Velas can be combined with this experience or other excursions. See their dolphins or whale sharks package for more information.

We arrived at the dolphin facility on a cloudy day—a perfect afternoon for an excursion. Our small group started with a dolphin kiss and a handshake from two of the animals, named Remón and Diana. The handshake felt more like a dance. After that initial introduction, each member of the group had an opportunity to swim with them. The swim was exciting and quick. Though we felt a few nerves as they took off, it was a safe experience that we immediately wanted to do again.

In addition to the dolphin swim, participants get to take part in some dolphin tricks, including playing with a ball and watching a dolphin jump up above us. We also had the opportunity to hold a manatee and swim briefly near stingrays and sharks in a separate area. Be aware that cameras are not allowed. There will, however, be a photographer taking photos that will later be available for purchase.

The dolphin encounter involves quite a few activities and a significant time with the animals. It will be nice to get back to Grand Velas with their friendly and attentive service afterwards. A relaxing seat next to your suite’s private plunge pool or a drink at the swim-up pool bar is highly recommended.

Grand Velas Lunch 

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

This press trip at Grand Velas was courtesy of Grand Velas Riviera Maya. The dolphin encounter was courtesy of Dolphin Discovery.

___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Follow this photographic journey around the ghats of Pushkar:

Steps of the Ghat

Sacred cows are seen throughout India, including Pushkar. Whether they are in a rural area or walking down the streets of a major city, cows are a permanent part of the landscape. Revered by followers of the Hindu faith, the animals are well-fed by owners and local passersby. People are often seen petting the gentle creatures (see photo below). Do note that beef is not readily available in Hindu communities. Travelers can venture into the Muslim community for that. 

Local Cow

Before visiting the 52 ghats of Pushkar Lake, indulge in some of the local street food. The cuisine uses a variety of spices and flavors that remain unmatched by other ethnic foods. After filling up, walk the streets of Pushkar, which are lined with small shops that sell local products ranging from bracelets and clothing to the colorful powder used during festivals like Holi. That festival involves throwing of colorful powder and water at friends and family.

Colored Powder 

Each ghat has a unique feel, ranging from a place of solitude to a more celebratory atmosphere. Foreigners are expected to remove their shoes when entering the ghat area.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Follow this photographic journey about the Uros of Titicaca:

Lake Titicaca 

The floating islands are created from the totora reeds that grow naturally in the lake. These reeds are also used for meals, medicine, and for building boats. The boats were traditionally used for transportation, fishing trips, and defense. Carachi and catfish are two species of the fish that have been caught for generations. Today, locals often use the boats for profit by taking travelers on short journeys.

Floating Islands of Lake Titicaca

The islands are filled with Uros children who are either wandering around or selling their family’s wares. You’ll find that all of the women are dressed in traditional clothing, whereas a few of the men wear Western hats or pants. Furthermore, Uros women make most of the contact with tourists, including providing information, selling goods, and setting up arrangements for overnight stays.

Uros Woman

Only a few hundred Uros remain on the island. Thousands of others have moved to the mainland. The Uros who remain on the island rely on a combination of traditional living and modern amenities. They have some electricity which powers their own radio station and a few hours of television per day. That being said, living on the island isn’t an easy life. Maintaining the totora reeds takes a lot of labor. The same is true of gathering food, educating children, and dealing with the challenges to their way of life.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Follow this photographic journey into the temple complex: 

Angkor Wat Tree Roots

Massive tree roots engulf many of the temple structures, especially at Ta Prohm. It is one of the most visually pleasing areas of Angkor.

Angkor Wat Tree Roots

The space is filled with lots of detailed figures. Many of them represent Hindu devatas (deities or celestial beings). Along with that comes a variety of Hindu stories told through carvings in the stone. 

Buddhist statues demonstrate later influences at Angkor Wat. At the same time, scattered stones and partial structures show years of wear and tear at the grand temples.

For tourists visiting Angkor Wat, the temple complex spans a vast area with hundreds of structures over a considerable distance. Consider spending several days viewing them. Hiring a motorbike or renting a bicycle is a great way to get around.

Angkor Wat Carving

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

__________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Few experiences are as lovely as waking up to the sun’s rays shining on your face. It’s especially enjoyable when it happens on the balcony of your accommodations at The Phoenix Resort, with a view of palm trees and the crystal-clear waters of San Pedro, Belize. San Pedro, a hip town on the southern part of the island of Ambergris Caye, has a range of activities and restaurants that will keep even the most seasoned travelers awed.

                                                       Sunrise                                                        

Swimming With Sharks

No trip to San Pedro would be complete without a visit to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. Depending on the location of your hotel, a simple walk along the white sand beaches of the town will lead you to numerous companies who specialize in diving and snorkeling trips. This included seeing sea turtles, barracudas, sharks, and stingrays over the course of a forty-minute swim. For those who are interested in getting close to the wildlife, at the end of the expedition, you will have an opportunity to touch onto sharks and stingrays.

Swimming With Sharks 

Streets of San Pedro

After filling much of the morning with swimming and sunning, it’s a smart move to navigate the shop-filled streets of San Pedro in search of lunch. Be sure to keep your wits about you during your walk, as golf carts—which can be rented on the island—are often whizzing bye.

Our landing spot for the afternoon was Elvi’s Kitchen. The restaurant evokes a feeling of home both in its presentation and cuisine. Started by Elvi Staines and her family, the establishment has become the most famous restaurant on the island. Patrons can select from a wide range of fresh seafood, which is prepared with a local touch. On this day, the ceviche, conch, and coconut curry shrimp were particularly memorable.

Parasailing

If you’re looking for some excitement after lunch, parasailing in the early evening provides a unique experience. Either solo or pairs, participants secured in their parasailing gear will be launched off their boats and over the waters of Belize. There is a slight adrenaline rush after liftoff, but a relative calm sets in while looking over the blue waters and island formations off the coast of the Central American nation. The activity is also considered to be safe, and people of various ages and abilities will be able to participate.  

The Phoenix Resort  (See also featured photo at the top) 

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

This press trip to Belize was courtesy of the Belize Tourism Board.
___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

1. Before Sunset (2004)

Director: Richard Linklater
Protagonists: Ethan Hawke (Jesse) and Julie Delpy (Celine)

Jesse: “What do you think were the chances of us ever meeting again?”

Celine: “After that December, I’d say almost zero. But we’re not real anyway, right? We’re just, uh, characters in that old lady’s dream.”

Ever meet the person of your dreams while traveling? Before Sunset, the sequel to Before Sunrise, follows the second meeting of Jesse and Celine. The two characters initially had a brief love affair after meeting on a train to Vienna, Austria. Nine years later, the two met again at Jesse’s book reading about the romance, at Shakespeare & Company in Paris. With just a few hours before Jesse’s plane leaves for the United States, Celine takes him on a stroll through Paris and a walk down memory lane. In addition to showcasing the beauty of Parisian life, Before Sunset delves into how the protagonists recall events, contrasting the idealism of our 20’s and the realism of the next stage of life.

Each person we meet in life—whether traveling or otherwise—provides a piece of our life’s puzzle. As Celine says, “you can never replace anyone because everyone is made up of such beautiful specific details.”

Sacre Coeur

2. Amélie (2001)

Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Protagonist: Audrey Tautou (Amélie)

Amélie: “I like to look for things no one else catches. I hate the way drivers never look at the road in old movies.”

It’s the details of Paris that make it such an alluring destination. Jeunet’s film provides a visual masterpiece, with a focusing on the musings of Amélie and her Montmartre neighborhood. Working as a waitress, Amélie spends her time attempting to help Parisians fix their lives. In the process, she realizes that it’s her own life that needs to be altered. Travelers will see a lot of themselves in Amélie’s character. They’ll also appreciate her father’s longing to travel, as well a her attempts to motivate him to follow through on that dream using a garden gnome.

3. The Dreamers (2003)

Director: Bernardo Bertolucci
Protagonists: Michael Pitt (Matthew), Eva Green (Isabelle) and Louis Garrel (Theo)

Isabelle & Theo: “We accept you, one of us! One of us!”

The ultimate experience in traveling or living abroad is being accepted as part of the local community. In The Dreamers, Matthew manages to become part of a Parisian family. He originally went to the City of Light as an American exchange student, with an obsessive love for the cinema. Set against the backdrop of turbulent May 1968 Paris, Matthew befriends Isabelle and Theo, two siblings who are a little too close for comfort. Along the way, Bertolucci infuses the film with his love of Paris. His audience slowly falls in love with the city and cinema itself as the characters interminably refer to and act out great film scenes.

As Matthew states, “I saw a movie at the cinémathèque française [and] I thought, “only the French…only the French would house a cinema inside a palace.”

La Sorbonne

4. Breathless or À bout de soufflé (1960)

Director: Jean-Luc Godard
Protagonists: Jean-Paul Belmondo (Michel Poiccard) and Jean Seberg (Patricia Franchini)

Patricia: “I entered this world on the Champs-Elysees, 1959. La trottoir du Champs Elysees. And do you know what my very first words were? New York Herald Tribune! New York Herald Tribune!”

As with Matthew in The Dreamers, Patricia Franchini is an American studying in Paris in Breathless. A journalism student at the Sorbonne, Patricia meets Michel, young troublemaker with an affinity for American cinema and petty theft. Along the way, Michel’s troubles escalate culminating in the shooting of a police officer. He turns to the alluring Patricia to provide him with shelter during the storm.

Godard, one of the leading directors of the French New Wave, provides audiences with one of the great films set in Paris. It gives viewers a taste of the city Paris in its hectic and revolutionary days.

5. 2 Days in Paris (2007)

Director: Julie Delpy
Protagonists: Adam Goldberg (Jack) and Julie Delpy (Marion)

Jack: “Can I use this thermometer?”
Marion: “I usually don’t use this one in the mouth. I mean…”
Jack: “Oh, come on! What is wrong with you?”
Marion: “What? It’s a French thermometer.”

Julie Delpy (Marion) returns to direct and star in a tale of a New York-based French woman in love with an American (see Before Sunset). 2 Days in Paris chronicles the couples’ trip to Europe including their sojourn to France. Marion and Jack follow the trail of many travelers who take off across the globe in hopes of rekindling their relationships. Unfortunately, for this couple, Paris is a tougher cultural experience than Jack can handle. Filled with humor and intellectual banter, 2 Days in Paris is a worth a watch.

6. Paris, je T’aime or Paris, I Love You (2007)

Directors: Twenty Different Individuals

Carol: “Sitting there, alone in a foreign country, far from my job and everyone I know, a feeling came over me. It was like remembering something I’d never known before or had always been waiting for, but I didn’t know what.”

Paris, je T’Aime is a moving tribute to the City of Light. Twenty directors filmed distinct segments capturing various facets of Parisian life, creating an ode to Paris that delves into the human experience and its connection to the urban landscape. Though the film features melancholy segments, viewers ultimately walk away with a profound feeling that Paris penetrates the core of both its inhabitants and visitors. The movie is a perfect watch for those returning from a trip as it beautifully stirs up all the small joys a traveler experiences in the city.

Arc de Triomphe 

7. Last Tango in Paris (1973)

Director: Bernardo Bertolucci
Protagonists: Marlon Brando (Paul) and Maria Schneider (Jeanne)

Paul: “I’m awfully sorry to intrude, but I was so struck with your beauty that I thought perhaps I could offer you a glass of champagne.” “Is this seat taken?”

Jeanne: “No.”

Last Tango in Paris is a controversial film starring Marlon Brando (Paul), an American expatriate in Paris who is struggling to cope with his wife’s suicide. This tragedy fills the protagonist with grief and aggression, which he channels into an affair with a young French woman named Jeanne. Paul engages in an intimate relationship with Jeanne under a strict arrangement: they must never exchange names. 

When Jeanne is finally ready to end the affair for a traditional marriage, Paul reveals his love for her: “you ran through Africa and Asia and Indonesia, and now I found you. And I love you. I want to know your name!” Jeanne responds with a simple, “Jeanne.”

While Last Tango in Paris isn’t ideal for all travelers, but it’s a masterpiece in filmmaking and character studies.

8. Ratatouille (2007)

Co-Directors: Brad Bird and Jan Pinkava

Remy: “What are you eating?”
Emile: “I don’t really know. I think it was some sort of wrapper once.”
Remy: “What? No! You’re in Paris now, baby! My town! No brother of mine eats rejecta-menta in my town!”

Ratatouille is perfect for families traveling with young children, as well as for adults passionate about French cuisine. It’s an animated tale that stars Remy, a rat who dreams of leaving the sewers to become a well-respected chef in Paris. Putting his life on the line, he manages to win the hearts of both the kitchen staff and the audience.

The film evokes a love for the underdog and a deep passion for French food, while beautifully reminding us of the magic of childhood family meals. Don’t let the animation fool you—his story is human at its core.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

 Photos © Gennaro Salamone

____________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Follow this photographic journey featuring the transplanting of rice: 

Khum Lanna 

We were set for a sunrise biking tour along the rural road from San Kwang village to Phrao to visit the local markets. Leaving the charming Khum Lanna, we were met by steady rain that prevented a view of the sunrise. Despite that, the early showers on the emerald-green rice paddies provided a tranquil atmosphere for the sojourn.

Transplanting Rice 

We visited the local markets, stopping for tea and an interesting traditional drink made mainly of raw eggs, before heading off to the area of the paddies where the rice was being transplanted. Working in the rice paddies appeared to be labor-intensive, but smiles were common among the local inhabitants. This work is essential to the economic success of Thailand, which is the world’s biggest rice exporter according to the Bangkok Post.

The highlight of the morning was an opportunity to enter the rice paddies for some hands-on learning. It’s one thing to observe the nature of the labor, but having your legs ankle-deep in mud while bending to stick rice plants into the ground gives a new level of understanding. We were fortunate to have a guide who had relationships with the community. Sometimes, it’s worthwhile to forgo complete independence while traveling.

Traditional Cups

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

This press trip to Thailand was courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. 
___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Follow this photographic journey through the lens of guest contributor and local New York photographer, James Maher.

This is a time-lapse exposure shows a busy city crowd moving through Grand Central Terminal. Created completely in-camera, the effect highlights a woman who seemed like a lonely tourist waiting for someone to rescue her.  She was so amazingly still that she looked afraid to move. I never saw anyone, and she soon walked off by herself.

Waiting in Grand Central Terminal, New York City

This is a photo that I’ve been wanting to take for a long time. It captures two New York City subway trains in motion. The image was also created completely in-camera at the 72nd Street station in 2010.

Subway Trains in Motion, 72nd Street, New York City 

This photo was taken from the top of my mother’s building on Broadway and 94th Street on a hot summer night in June of 2007. Lightning was flashing all around the building, and the wind was gusting hard. Soon after this photo was snapped, it started to pour, and the lightning strikes got close enough that I thought it was best to leave. Earlier in the day, a similar strike reportedly hit a substation in Queens, causing a blackout in the Bronx and on the Upper East Side—creating a lot of chaos during the 90-degree weather.

Lightning over Manhattan, New York City

This photo was taken during the huge blizzard that hit the city in 2003. The snowstorm created such bad conditions tha, for much of the day I was completely lost in the park. At some point, I found this bridge to seek refuge under. It didn’t take long before this couple came along with the same idea.

Couple in Snowstorm, Central Park, New York City

The Chrysler Building, in my opinion, is the most iconic building in the city. While its gargoyles are probably the most talked-about aspect of this classic Art Deco masterpiece, I much prefer the metal spire, which can often be seen glinting like a diamond in the hot sun or glowing throughout the night.

Chrysler Building Spire, New York City

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

NYC Photos © James Maher

Featured Photo © Janne Rakkolainen

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James Maher is a fine art street and studio photographer based in New York City.  James credits his inspiration for photography to his love for the city and its endless supply of personalities to capture and streets to explore. His New York photography consists of both scenic and architectural views of the city, as well as the close up daily life of the people on the streets.

The World’s Best Festivals & Parties

Visiting a country in the midst of a festival is a great way to meet locals, observe culture, and have a lot of fun. The Rough Guides World Party website provides a comprehensive search function for the best festivals from across the globe. It allows visitors to explore by specific festival, month, country, or culture—including elements like music, food, parades, drink, and religion. Have a week off in April? Try the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. Headed to Spain this August? Visit Buñol on the last Wednesday of the month for La Tomatina.

Do note that festivals bring in lots of locals and tourists, so be to book your accommodations well in advance.

Roof Top @ Bangkok, Thailand

Throw a Dart at a World Map

That’s exactly what I did back in 1998. With so many great destinations, I was looking to select a place for a study abroad trip. A friend dared me to toss a dart at an oversized world map on the wall. A small hole in that friend’s wall resulted in a summer of study in the Czech Republic. Prague offering a fascinating city along with informative courses in Central European politics, the Holocaust, and Czech literature. The works of Milan Kundera were notable on that trip.

X

Searching for the latest hotspots or newly uncovered gems? X (formerly Twitter) has thousands of travel experts sharing their wisdom. It’s a unique opportunity to join a conversation with a travel blogger, innkeeper, or travel-industry specialist. Read their post for ideas or send a mention for a specific suggestion.

Let’s connect on X: @GennaroSalamone

Huacachina. Peru

UNESCO World Heritage List

The UNESCO World Heritage list includes  over 800 cultural and natural sites across the globe. World Heritage Committee works to preserve and promote places that showcase human creative genius or natural wonders, focusing on those with outstanding universal value. Italy holds the highest number (61) recognized sites, while the committee also maintains a List of World Heritage in Danger. This inventory includes high-profile locations like the Galápagos Islands (removed from the list in 2010) and Old City of Jerusalem, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo hosting four endangered locations.

Let Your Travel Magazine or Blog Readers Decide

While this is easier task for travel bloggers who already have an audience interest in the topic, any writer can use their platform to elicit suggestions. Simply ask readers to fill the comment section with their ideas. While keeping in mind that a few jokers might try to send you to the Gulag, take the submissions and narrow them down to a few realistic recommendations. Then, use the most popular entries to run a final poll. This strategy builds significant reader anticipation for details of the upcoming trip.

Significant updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salmone

___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Staying with a local Romanian family will accentuate your experience. It will also provide you with a home-cooked breakfast. In the case of the Swiss friend I met at Brenda’s, it even provided a new companion. As I left to hike through scenic farms on the way to visiting Voronet Monastery (2.5 miles away) and Humor Monastery (3.5 miles away). Brenda’s mother requested, quietly, that I accompany her other guest, a young lady. That won’t happen at most hotels.

Gura Humorului 

Buses or taxis are available as alternatives to hiking for travelers who prefer a more comfortable journey. Be warned, however; you are unlikely to be invited by a Romanian family (see photo above) to join their picnic by the river if the bus.

The painted monasteries are the jewels of northeastern Romania. Their interior and exterior walls feature frescoes of a variety of Biblical scenes, including The Last Judgment. Voronet’s intense shades of blue and detailed imagery are highly captivating. Humor is a smaller monastery with its own distinct fresco themes; its reddish-brown shades provide a beautiful contrast to the vibrant blue of Voronet. Each monastery was also fortified to defend against the power of the Ottoman Empire, which regularly invaded the region during the centuries these structures were built.

Monastery 

It’s recommended that you hire a local guides to gain a deeper understanding of the frescoes and scripture. While the scenes are often self-explanatory, each monastery holds a more significant underlying message. Additionally, because parts of the frescoes have faded over time, a professional guide can help fill in the missing pieces of the story. Consider bringing a packed lunch, as well, since the grounds offer a comfortable place to relax for the afternoon.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Gura Humorului © Gennaro Salamone

Monastery © Gary Todd

___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Follow this photographic journey into the birthplace of the Buddha’s enlightenment.

Buddhist Knot, Bodh Gaya 

Bodh Gaya is filled with Buddhist temples built by governments from across Asia. Every nation with a significant Buddhist population has built its own temple to pay respect to the place of the Buddha’s enlightenment.

Relaxing Monks

Buddhist monks from a variety of nations make the pilgrimage to the Mahabodhi Temple to meditate under the Bodhi tree. It’s a peaceful respite from the chaos of India’s urban areas.

All Buddhist traditions have Bhikkhunis (Buddhist Nuns). While nuns take the same important vows, their position and stature within the Buddhist community are largely determined by their country.

The Bodhi Tree, Mahabodhi Temple

The Bodhi tree at Mahabodhi Temple is an descendant of the original tree under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment around 530 BCE. Visitors and monks alike wait for falling Bodhi leaves which symbolize good fortune.

Prayer Flags

The Buddhist Emperor Asoka is considered the founder of the Mahabodhi Temple, a brilliant architectural structure featuring a central tower that rises to over 180 feet. Tibetan prayer flags flutter throughout the complex.

Bodh Gaya is home to thousands of Buddha statues of various sizes. Each statue has a unique meaning tied to its specific posture and facial expression.

Buddhist chanting takes place regularly under the Bodhi tree. Pilgrims and tourists alike immerse themselves in the rhythmic chants, while many visitors and monks join in prayer.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Follow this photographic journey through the historical capital of the Incas: 

Cusco Architecture 

The Plaza de Armas of Cusco is filled with beautiful architecture. This vibrant gathering place is the home to the city’s cathedral, where the visual influence of the Spanish Empire is clear—as it is in most Peruvian cities.

Catholicism deeply shapes the local culture. Processions to honor patron saints or Jesus Christ are regular occurrences, offering a wonderful opportunity to observe families gathering together.

Procession in Cusco

Indigenous textile markets provide travelers with plenty of warm clothing options for the trip to Machu Picchu. In addition to the textiles, Cusco boasts a sizable food market with fresh produce, cheeses, and meats. It is also a fun place to observe locals haggling over prices.

Cusco’s architecture shows both Incan and Spanish influences, making it perhaps the best place in Peru to view this combination. As a bonus, travelers can enjoy views of the majestic hills around the city against stunning blue skies—a perfect backdrop for photographers.

As you sit in the Plaza de Armas, be sure to rest to avoid overexertion and altitude sickness.

Sacred Mountains 

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

On arrival, several gentle giants standing near the river met our group of travel writers and editors. Among the elephants was a pregnant female who managed to carry two of us through mountainous jungle scenery down to river. The secret to riding this particular elephant was to ensure that she was fed plenty of bananas. We made sure to put aside enough bananas for the entire trip, as her trunk kept reaching back to collect a reward every few steps.
 

Elephant Eating a Banana

Behind the pregnant giant was a 3-year-old baby elephant that followed along for the journey sans passenger. He spent most of the trip using his trunk to throw dirt over his shoulder, ensuring protection against the sun and insects. While the ride along the river was wonderful, the highlight of the day was bonding with the baby elephant at the end. I walked over to the receptive animal and hugged him. It’s not every day that you can connect with one of the largest land mammals.

Elephant Reaching for a Banana

There are several options that offer for a similar experience. Elephant Nature Park is one of the better choices, with over thirty rescued elephants ranging from infants to old-timers. They have everything from day trips to three-week long volunteer stays.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

This press trip to Thailand was courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. 
___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Named after its founder, Jacques Torres, who grew up in a small town in the southern region of Provence, this chocolate shop tops the list. With four locations in the city, Jacques Torres manages to create chocolate that will captivate your taste buds. For the ultimate experience, visit their Hudson Street location to witness chocolate being made from fresh beans; the entire place is enveloped by glass to allow patrons to watch the factory do its magic.

2. Martine’s Chocolates (Closed)

Martine’s Chocolates creates a variety of fresh cream chocolates and truffles. Their delicacies are handmade right in front of their customers with the finest ingredients, including Belgian Callebaut couverture chocolate, French butter, and fresh American cream. Martine’s is perhaps the best place in the city to watch the chocolate-making process. Be sure to pick up a selection of your favorites in their signature pink boxes for a friend.

Neighborhood Building (NYC)

3. MarieBelle

MarieBelle doesn’t manufacture chocolate; they create works of art. As the most aesthetically pleasing option on the list, MarieBelle’s chocolates will satisfy all of your senses. Their traditional blue boxes make the perfect gift for a loved one, with each box is filled with a curated sampling of their finest work. MarieBelle also hosts live music on Wednesday nights, allowing visitors to enjoy Jazz In The Chocolate Factory at their Madison Avenue location.

4. Kee’s Chocolates

Founded by Kee Ling Tong, Kee’s Chocolates makes handmade bonbons and hand-rolled confections. Their flavors have an international flair, with featured imported yuzu from Japan, sea salt from France, and saffron from Spain. This is the ideal stop for individuals who prefer the feel of  an Upstate New York shop over the glitz of La Maison or the elegance of MarieBelle. Be sure to try the ultra-creamy truffles.

5. La Maison du Chocolat

La Maison du Chocolat built its reputation as one of the preeminent chocolatiers in France and it has extended that legacy to New York City. Offering the most expensive chocolate treats on our list, La Maison creates mouthwatering ganaches, pralinés, and a variety of fruited chocolates. Keep in mind that the experience is closer to visiting an ultra-high-end boutique than a quaint shop.

Stained Glass at Neighborhood Church (NYC)

6. Mondel Homemade Chocolates

Mondel Homemade Chocolates has been a neighborhood favorite near Columbia University for over sixty years. Mondel’s was also the preferred shop of four-time Academy Award winner Katharine Hepburn. This shop offers a wide range of treats ranging from truffles and creams to cordials and break-up chocolate. Mondel also has a tasty variety of sugar-free options.

7. Vosges Haut-Chocolat

Vosges creates the best truffles in New York City. Created by Chicago-based Katrina Markoff, these truffles will leave you feeling satiated. Visitors can sample a range of exotic flavors, including curry, Thai pandan leaves, and wasabi. If you don’t live in Chicago or New York City, you can easily order these unique sweets online.

8. Evelyn’s Chocolates (Closed)

Evelyn’s Chocolates has been satisfying customers for decades in the Financial District. Created by Evelyn Robb, this shop has hand-dipped chocolates and delectable confections. Understated in comparison to its competition for New York’s best, Evelyn’s maintains a homey feel. It feels like mom’s kitchen. Try the homemade Chunkys.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Travel Magazines with the Highest Circulation in the United States

1. National Geographic (4,493,024)
2. Via (2,740,435)
3. Living (2,469,830)
4. Going Places (2,404,121)
5. Sunset (1,259,750)
6. Where Magazine (1,191,152)
7. Travel + Leisure (996,217)
8. Midwest Living (989,424)
9. Condé Nast Traveler (810,713)
10. National Geographic Traveler (742,575)
11. Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel (680,097)
12. Coastal Living (671,023)

It’s surprising to see so many AAA publications on the list, but keep in mind that these often come with a membership to the American Automobile Association, based on the region. It’s also interesting that more than half of the included titles focus on a specific area of the country rather than being national or international—Coastal Living and Midwest Living are two examples.

(Circulation data from 2009)

Significant updates and edits were made from the original article.

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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

History
Venice, often called the most romantic city in the world, was one of the great powers during the eighteenth century. That era marked the zenith of the Carnival celebrations. Wealthy nobles from across Europe made their way to the canal-filled city to partake in the grandest party on the continent. With its tradition of masks and costumes, Venice Carnival was an opportunity to engage in the forbidden liberties of the time. Today, the Carnival, held in February, remains a chance for travelers to participate in an extraordinary ritual.

Gondola 

Masks & Misbehavior
Venetians of various social classes used the festival to intermingle with those who were off-limits in traditional society. Participants were able to engage in gambling, sexual favors, or mocking of the powerful. Italian mascarei (craftsmen) created elegant masks that protected the identity of each reveler. It remains a booming industry, with thousands of locals and tourists attending the Carnival every year. If fact, the masks for Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut were created by a local artisan.

Those attending the festivities will need to dress the part—no costume equals no fun. Consider buying either a bauta, moretta, or larva (volto) mask. The bauta is the most widely worn mask. Locals spend countless Euros on this style, which covers the whole face but has no mouth. It is considered ideal for those who want to completely protect their identity. The moretta is an oval mask of black velvet that was traditionally worn by women visiting convents, and it usually included a veil. A third historic mask to consider, the larva, is mainly white and is typically worn with a tricorn hat and a cloak.

Carnival Mask 

Happenings
Venice Carnival 2009 featured an array of parties, musical theater performances, gala dinners, and concerts. The carnival’s opening event took place at the Luna Hotel Baglioni at 8:00pm on February 13. It began with a welcome cocktail featuring Venetian canapés and local drinks, followed by dancing and a comedy show. Tickets were 230,00 Euro per person, which included VAT and wine from the Canova Selection. A full schedule of events was readily available on the official website of the Venice Carnival.

During the festivities, participants sampled the region’s local delicacies. Veneto is the birthplace of tiramisu—a classic dessert made by dipping savoiardi (ladyfingers) into espresso. For an authentic treat, try dunking freshly made traditional biscuits such as bussolai or baicoli, in sweet Malvasia wine.

For lunch, consider local favorites, including sliced Sopressa Vicentina paired with Asiago or Grana Padano cheese, which is perfectly complemented by a glass of regional Soave wine. Dinner options are plentiful, as the city is home to some of the finest Northern Italian restaurants. Grand Canal Restaurant or Al Covo are exceptional choices for travelers seeking the absolute best culinary experiences Venice has to offer.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Gondola Photo © Gennaro Salamone

Carnival Mask © Gianni

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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Follow guest contributor Scott Ruddick’s tour of the Kabul street food scene:

To the outside world, Kabul has become synonymous with the strife and conflict afflicting the whole of Afghanistan. Yet beyond the headlines, the capital city is a vibrant community of three million people with a thriving street food scene.

The influx of foreigners and money since the fall of the Taliban has gradually transformed the Kabul restaurant landscape. Enterprising street chefs, tabang- wallahs in the local parlance, serve up a variety of local cuisine.

Kabul Food Stall 

Kabul’s food stalls are unassuming. They are often consisting of a little more than a tin roof held up by a rough-hewn wooden frame covering a cooking area. Electrical connections to refrigeration are nonexistent and supplies are kept in coolers, lugged back and forth from the staff’s homes every day.

The best stalls are found around Shahr-e Naw Park, a large green space in central Kabul popular with the locals for pick-up soccer matches and Friday bird fights. Clustered along the wide sidewalk, these vendors follow a universal street-food blueprint: each stall specializes in just one or two dishes,  building a loyal following by offering a consistent, quality product at a reasonable price.

Mantu vendor and Kabob 

Each dish costs between 50 and 100 afghanis ($1.25 and $2.50 USD). Busy times include lunch—the main meal in Afghanistan—when office workers and laborers are on the prowl for a cheap meal, and the late afternoon, when workers head home and stop to pick up takeout for their evening meal.

Kabul’s street food stalls offer both a cheaper alternative to more expensive sit-down restaurants and a respite from the heavy fare of traditional Afghan household cooking. A typical Afghan meal is centered on rice. Qabili Palau— basmati rice topped with chopped carrots, raisins, and pieces of meat—is often the centerpiece, served with flat bread. While a well-done palau is a wonderful meal, its sheer ubiquity eventually drives Afghanis and expats alike to seek out different fare. The tabang wallahs (street vendors) are only too pleased to fill this void in the Afghan diet.

Boloni Vendor

Kabob is the preferred takeout food for Kabul’s denizens, which means open-air kabob shops can be found in every part of the city. These kabobs consist of seasoned mutton, lamb, beef, or chicken skewered on rough iron spikes, then broiled over glowing charcoal. The meat is wrapped in naan—a leavened bread being slapped against the inner wall of a clay oven—which is, in turn, wrapped in old newspaper. The experienced kabob eater knows that the naan serves as both a plate and an accompaniment. The rough side of the bread is always placed facing up with the meat piled on top. Chunks of the bread are then ripped off and used to scoop up the meat. A typical mid-sized kabob stall will serve about 110 pounds of meat a week.

Boloni 

Other tabang wallahs serve up steaming plates of delicately spiced ravioli. Indigenous to northern Afghanistan, mantu (stuffed with minced meat) and ashak (filled with leeks) are steamed over large, open-air pots and served with a tangy yogurt sauce.

Bolani, or stuffed pancakes filled with either shaved potato and onion (sabzi) or squash (kadu) are deep-fried in bubbling cauldrons of oil.

The carb-heavy Afghan burger, a recent Kabul concoction, is a favorite among city’s teenage boys. It is common to see groups of them gathered on street corners devouring the local speciality: a spiced ground beef patty with a smattering of onions, tomato, and lettuce, wrapped in a pita-like bread with generous handful of French fries jammed inside.

Shor nakhod or stewed chickpeas, are served on large plates with a vibrant mint sauce. Their flavorful dish works equally well as a snack or a standalone meal.

Doogh stall

Whatever your choice of entrée, wash it down with doogh, which is a carbonated yogurt drink seasoned with salt and mint.

A typical Afghan food stall will open in the late morning, and close around dusk, Sunday to Thursday. This schedule is reversed during the religious month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. During this 30-day period, the stalls will open for iftar, the fast-breaking meal that takes place at sunset, and close at around sunrise, when the last meal before the daily fast begins.

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Featured photo © Iain Cochrane

Article Photos © Scott Ruddick

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Scott Ruddick is an international development specialist and a freelance writer who focuses on the developing world. Learn more about Scott on his website.

Vang Vieng 

Vang Vieng is a standard stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia route. Though there is plenty of space for peaceful contemplation, the center of the town tends to be filled with young travelers enjoying reruns of Friends and The Simpsons at local restaurants. Diners often remove their shoes to sit cross-legged at tables encircled by comfortable, couch-like seating.

That being said, the majority of the adventurers who visit are looking to break a sweat. Rock climbing, tubing, and mountain biking are just the beginning of the early morning activities. The cost for one to three days of rock climbing depends upon the number of travelers in your group; check the listing of a well-established shops for up-to-date rates. If that sounds like too much exertion for your vacation, you can always unwind with an affordable local massage in the evenings.

Rock Climbing in Laos

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.

Chandigarh Rock Garden 

For those making the journey, the garden has a maze-like path with a multitude of creative figurines ranging from animals to human forms. You will find tourists and locals alike marveling at this modern wonder, which was developed by Nek Chand. On most days, locals picnic or relax on the grounds (photo below). To have a truly unique experience, ask the information desk if Chand is at the garden during your visit; if so, he will be more than happy to meet with travelers.

Chandigarh Couple

Toward the end of your walk, a lovely waterfall with with human figures atop it will appear. This is a comfortable spot to relax for a few moments in shade. Upon leaving the complex, it is a short cycle-rickshaw ride to the Open Hand Monument, which remains the official logo of the city.

After returning to the city center, consider having dinner at Ghazal Restaurant. Ghazal has excellent service along with classic Indian dishes. For window seating and extra attention from the staff arrive 15 to 20 minutes before traditional dinner is served.

If you’re unsure about making the trip to Chandigarh, consider combining it with a journey to the hill station of Shimla. Kalka, the town where the toy train to Shimla originates, is only an hour from Chandigarh.

Shimla

Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.

Photos © Gennaro Salamone

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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.