Situated in the southeastern part of the Pacific Ocean is Easter Island, where Polynesian myths and legends surround the existence of monumental statues that decorate the land called moai. From god-like powers to devastating epidemics to volatile clan wars, the people of Easter Island have endured their fair share of historical ups and downs. Today, the remnants of the mythological Birdman clan and guardians of sacred family caves found on the island allow researchers to paint a picture of native beliefs and better understand the past. 
Contrary to popular belief, the moai are often incorrectly referred to as "heads," when in fact – many statues possess complete torsos – some seen in a kneeling position, while others have arms crossed over their stomachs. Since some moai have been buried up to their neck in sand, this common assumption is easy to make. Hoarded away in museum collections, tucked away in caves, and scattered out in the open, a total of 887 of these monolithic stone statues have been recorded.
As a World Heritage Site, the majority of Easter Island is protected within the Rapa Nui National Park, which is divided up into seven different sections, including Puna Pau, Costa Norte, and:
Rano Raraku – To capture a peek at the technological wonder of Easter Island, the 397 Moai that call this section its home still remain in their place to this day. Here, the most unique of the bunch (called Tukuturi) shows distinct features, such as a beard, reddish stone, and kneeling position.
Anakena – Home to a white coral sand beach and palm grove.
Ahu Akivi – A stone platform with seven moai facing the ocean greets visitors.
Hanga Roa – Easter Island's main town, harbor, and capital offers national football games; touristy hotels and guesthouses; the Mataveri International Airport; and some of the most famous moai on the island.
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Calling all speed demons and racecar enthusiasts – northwestern Utah is home to an ancient glacial lake turned speedway that holds quite a history. Located west of the Great Salt Lake, the Bonneville Salt Flats is one of the largest of its kind, measuring 159 square miles. Accessible by Interstate 80, locals and tourists alike come to take pictures, test out their vehicles, as well as enjoy the sights and sounds of the Bonneville Speedway.
In 1896, it was W.D. Rishel, who first recognized the potential of the Bonneville Salt Flats, as he searched for suitable bike-racing grounds. The location showed promise for prime speed testing and continued to gain interest throughout the years. During the 1930's, an international spotlight blanketed the salt flats, as Malcolm Campbell (the first person to drive a car more than 300 miles per hour), set his final land speed record at Bonneville in 1935. There is even an old motorcycle named the Triumph Bonneville – after the salt flats that served as a site for many motorcycle speed records. 
Today, the Bonneville Speedway plays host to many different high-speed racecar competitions – some of which have reached speeds of 600 miles per hour. Each year, tourists and participants rally up for Speed Week, a festival that takes advantage of the best weather conditions for achieving top speeds. For example, the Ford Hydrogen Fusion 999 (a fuel cell car) hit 200 mph this month.
Interesting Fact: Portions of Hollywood hits, such as "Independence Day" and "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" have been filmed at the salt flats.
Just because school has started, summer is holding on by the hair of its chinny chinny chin, and the first day of fall officially starts on September 22nd, 2008 – there is still plenty of time to soak up a few rays and enjoy a good festival before the leaves begin to trickle to the ground.
For example, Rhinebeck, New York is preparing for the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest this weekend, held at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds on September 6th and September 7th. Local restaurants and vineyards, music, and awe-inspiring scenery will take place against the beautiful landscape of the Catskill Mountains.
To give you a bit more time to prepare for upcoming festivities in your neck of the woods, below are five festivals in taking place in California, Georgia, Oregon, and Tennessee during the month of September:
1) Atlanta Arts Festival
September 12th - September 14th, 2008
Atlanta, Georgia
This three-day extravaganza unfolding in Piedmont Park centers on an outdoor festival focused on the beauty of visual arts. Artists from all over the country will gather to admire and absorb creative expression with sounds of live entertainment floating in the air. Other features to look forward to includes "Dirty Car Artist" Scott Wade; a Celtic harpist; and bucket drummer Chris Harris.
While you're there – don't forget to head on over to the food court, where soft drinks, bottled water, wine, beer, and Cat Daddy's Moonshine cocktails are ready to quench your thirst. Concession stands will showcase a variety of regional treats, from fried catfish, sweet potato chips, red beans and rice to Spinach and Black Bean Quesadillas, Crispy Fish Tacos, and Cajun Chicken Eggrolls. Nurse a box of Mountain View Kettle Korn or pay a visit to Always Sweet, which will provide delicious funnel cakes, cotton candy, and candy apples. Times: Friday: 4pm – 8pm; Saturday: 10am – 8pm; Sunday 12pm – 6pm * Admission & Parking: Free. It is suggested to take the Marta, as parking is limited.
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2) ArtWalk on the Bay
September 13th - September 14th, 2008
San Diego, California
Embarcadero Park North (right behind Seaport Village) provides the location for a two-day festival that promises to showcase the work of some of the best artists dwelling in San Diego. With the scenic bayside serving as your setting for this event, the artwork isn't the only thing you won't be able to stop staring at. Performers will keep the crowds entertained and the kiddies will certainly appreciate the various interactive art explorations offered at this event. Sponsored by Toyota, don't miss out on the chance to check out the latest in green technology with hybrid vehicles on display and test drives. Times: 10am - 5pm * Admission & Parking: Free – find your spot all about downtown.
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3) Chattahippie Music Festival
September 18th - September 21st, 2008
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Prepare for a four-day stint filled with peace, love, and happiness at the Chattahippie Festival Grounds, where this riverfront venue (stretching more than 50 acres) will host an array of performers and musical talent, including the sounds of bluegrass, blues, country, Americana, and Southern rock folk. There will be close to 30 acts and bands featured at this event, which also offers food and drinks to satisfy a grumbling stomach and parched throat. Rain or shine, this event is on – so don't forget to bring your sunscreen, lawn chairs, blankets, ground seats, and umbrella.
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4) American River Music Festival
September 19th - September 21st, 2008
Coloma, California
How does spending three days surrounded by blues, folk, and Americana music sound? With a handful of workshops and jam sessions, the American River Music Festival is coming to Coloma (about one hour from Sacramento) with food, music, art, and entertainment. Come enjoy a guided hike along the riverfront. Test your nerves while whitewater rafting or take the time to go camping with the kiddies. Performers slated to deliver a rip-roaring good time includes Gandolph Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams; The Buccaneers; and Blame Sally. Please note that all the action takes place at Lotus Park and three other campgrounds in town. Admission & Parking: $35-$219
Thanks to MorgueFile and Mary R. Vogt for providing the above photo.
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5) Portland Pirate Festival
September 20th - September 21st, 2008
Portland, Oregon
It's time to slap on an eye patch, dust off the wooden leg, and bring the parrot out of retirement – the Portland Pirate Festival kicks off in September, offering two days filled with music, history, and of course…adventure. This family-friendly event will be held under the St. John's Bridge with Cathedral Park providing the historical surroundings. Ships, cannon battles, and sword fighting demonstrations are only the tip of the iceberg for this festival that aims to pay homage to swashbucklers, pirates and other maritime fascinations of the past. Live entertainment will include Captain Bogg & Salty; En Daire Irish Dancers; "The Pirate's Parrot" Live Bird Show; and the Mud Bay Jugglers. Times: Saturday (10am - 10pm); Sunday (10am – 6pm) * Admission & Parking: 1 day: $6-$15; 2 day: $10-$20; Group Rates: $5 -$15
Thanks to MorgueFile and Dani Simmonds for providing the above photo.
Caracas, Venezuela – 8 Things to Do and Places to See
Posted by
Yona Williams
in Attractions, Destinations, South America
Venezuela has recently revealed the discovery of an ancient tar pit that provides a glimpse into the world of the saber-toothed cat (amongst other interesting fossils). The kind of saber toothed cat fossil uncovered was a first for paleontologists working in South America and shows great promise in unlocking the answers to many questions regarding the past. You're probably wondering what that has to do with traveling…
Instead of traveling back into time, I'd like to take a look at eight things to do and places to see in Caracas, the capital and largest city in Venezuela, located in the northern part of the country. With a terrain that boasts a great deal of hills and mountains, you will also find that Caracas Valley on the coastal mountain range of Cordillera de la Costa is close to the Caribbean Sea.
The climate of Caracas varies between the central city and the mountains. The coldest temperatures come in January at 72 degrees, while May is the warmest with 75-degree days. A trip to Caracas during the months of December and January are sometimes filled with foggy days, where some nights bring a temperature drop of 55 degrees. On rare occasions, a hailstorm may erupt in the city, but electrical storms are more frequent, especially between June and October – a direct result of being situated in a closed valley.
1) Teresa Carreño Cultural Complex
Best known as the Teresa Carreño Theater, you will encounter one of the most important of theaters in Caracas – as a matter of fact – in all of Venezuela. This is the stage where popular concerts, operas, ballet, and theater unfold. This attraction gem is located in the cultural zone of the city, close to the Caobos Park and the Caracas Athenaeum.
2) Museo de los Ninos (Children's Museum)
Step inside this entertaining, interactive museum when you need a quick fix for restless children. The kiddies will appreciate an exploration of medicine, physics, biology, communication, and astronomy.
3) Parque del Este
For a great place to people-watch, consider Parque del Este, which fills with joggers, pick-up basketball games, soccer, and residents in deep meditation. Some come to investigate the paths or catch their breath on a nearby bench. A small zoo is located on the premises, as well as weekend shows at the Humbolt Planetarium. Keep in mind that the park is open from 5am to 5pm (Tuesday through Sunday) and from 5am to 9am on Mondays. Admission is 300Bs (15¢) – a small price to pay for fresh air and a change of scenery.
4) Parque Nacional El Avila
Hiking enthusiasts usually wind up discovering the nooks and crannies of this mountain-filled national park, which offers a multitude of trails. Remember that you should come prepared for sudden drops in the temperature. Additionally, rain is a common occurrence during the afternoons.
5) Museo de Arte Contemporaneo
A treasure trove of modern art awaits your presence, as the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo is a popular stop for tourists looking for high-quality art in South America. It is here that art lovers come face-to-face with the artistic expressions of Matisse, Picasso, and Joan Miro.
6) National Pantheon
Located five blocks north of Plaza Bolivar, one of the most recognized buildings in the city, the National Pantheon (a former church) is known to provide a final resting place for famous Venezuelans.
7) Parque Central
Step into a world filled with art and culture, where the latest museum exhibits, films, and other entertainment choices in Venezuela come to life. Don’t forget to check out the Mirador de la Torre Oeste, where the 52nd floor promises a 360-degree view of the city.
8) Centro Sambil
Dig deep into your pockets, dust off the credit cards, and trade in a few greenbacks for items offered at the more than 500 shops, restaurants, and other fun things to do at Centro Sambil – the largest shopping mall in South America.
During a brief moment of procrastination, the Olympics flashed across the screen, allowing me to catch up on some of the track and field events of the day. It was then that Roqaya Al Ghasara caught my attention as she crossed the finish line before the rest of her competitors in Round 2 of the 200-meter sprinting event.
The devout Muslim was wearing a tailor-made aerodynamic veil – "Bahrain" stretched across the front of her uniform. Where is Bahrain, I said to myself and during my search for information, I came across this unforgettable snapshot of beauty – courtesy of Vladimir Arshinov.
Bahrain is an island country located in the Persian Gulf. About 3 ½ times the size of Washington, DC; the country is home to about more than 700,000 inhabitants. With mildly pleasant winters and heat-filled, humid summers, many tourists come in hopes of benefiting from the plentiful natural resources of fish and pearls. Besides catching a glimpse of the Bahrain Grand Mosque, additional points of interest include:
- Qal'at al-Bahrain: Also referred to as the Portuguese Fort, this archaeological site is considered one of the top prizes associated with the country. Excavations for this attraction started during the 1950s, revealing a fort positioned on the remains of previous cities. Seven layers were discovered with the earliest dating back to 2800 BC.
- Royal Tombs: While visiting a cemetery doesn’t sound like much fun, many tourists take pleasure in experiencing the largest and most remarkable of the 85,000 burial mounds found in Bahrain. Situated in the village of A'ali, many believe the towering tombs served as the final resting place of royalty – with some reaching 50 feet into the sky. A stop in A'ali also brings you to a well-known pottery workshop, where tourists often find treasures of their own to take home.
- Barbar Temple: This archaeological site with a religious and spiritual past consists of temples dating back to the 2nd and 3rd millennium BC. Most likely dedicated to Enki, the God of Wisdom and the Sweet Waters Under the Sea, the excavated wonders are visible when traveling about a collection of walkways.
When departing from the U.S., you should know that flights tend to be on the expensive side and harder to locate. Consider traveling during what is known as the low seasons (early January to mid-June; and mid-October to mid-December). For the best connections to Bahrain, Europe is a winner with better airline deals found in Greece, Italy, or London.