Beyond stunning beaches and magical temples

reader and evan go to a big vacation trip in bahamas, mexico, brazil, italy, south africa, bali after the end of dahmer and it’s just eat pray and love vibe surrounding in their own love bubble

notes : omg finally done with this story, it has really occupied my days but also school is mostly what's making me write so slow. but I finally have a 3 week break!!! so more evans to come😉

part 1 ( it’s kinda connected but you don’t have to read it )

After the whole argument on whether Evan should take a break, he has chosen to listen to you. But what was even better is that Evan extended his break for a few more months, so now you had almost 2 full years of Evan to yourself. Spending every month, day, hour, minute, and second with his love. You even persuaded him to travel around a few countries with you, going to the Bahamas, Italy and France. Now you can finally have your 2 month getaway with Evan, thinking about nothing but enjoying life.

First, you went to the Bahamas, the land of beautiful oceans and pristine beaches. This country was your suggestion to visit as you wanted to experience snorkelling in their clear blue water. You also wanted to go to their pig island and swim with the cute little pigs. Of course, you also had to visit the famous pink beach, you had seen pictures about it online and couldn’t resist. But, woah, was it more beautiful in real life than in photos. It was more of a soft coral pink than a vibrant pink and you liked it better that way. You and Evan had a little picnic at the pink beach and it was definitely a great experience. You sat there eating and enjoying the view of nature while Evan wandered off to explore.

 Most of these places you went to were all your idea as Evan just wanted to spend time with you. So you let him choose the last place to visit before you head off to another country. He chose to relax during the last day on Coco Plum Beach, you both brought a mat and just sat on it while looking at the sunset. You also brought along a book so you can read it while listening to the sea waves. You both also went and played with the swing placed in the ocean, near the shore. But before you both left, Evan had a surprise to give you. Closing your eyes, you heard something jiggle until he told you to open your eyes. You did as told and in front of you was Evan holding out a string filled with seashells attached to it.

“ I picked out pretty seashells I found from every beach and made them into a bracelet. Now you can wear the memories of this trip with you everywhere you go. “ 

So that was why he was always wandering away. 

You were speechless, it’s such a small act that Evan did but oh did it make you tear up. Evan saw you getting all touched and giggled at your reaction. He reached out for your hand and slipped on the self-made bracelet, it fitted perfectly. Running your fingers through all the seashells while smiling to yourself. You looked up and saw Evan snapping a picture of you while you were in your daze, a few tears slipping out without you knowing. Evan used the pad of his thumb and swiped the tears away, giving you a soft tender kiss. Breaking apart and leaning against each other's foreheads until you realised the sky was now fully dark. So you decided to pack up and head back to your hotel, tomorrow is when you leave this beautiful sight but you would be travelling to your next destination to see a different type of beauty.

-

The second destination the couple was exploring was Rome, Italy. This was Evan’s choice of location as he wanted to visit all the attractions, especially the Biblioteca Vallicelliana as Evan had a secret soft spot for books. So you went there first on your second day in Rome as you’ve spent your first day sleeping in the hotel due to being very jet-lagged.

When you walked into the library, you could see Evan’s eyes light up. A big smile plastered onto his face, it was very cute to see Evan’s nerdy side come out. You too liked reading books, but definitely not as much as him. Evan would always carry a book with him or when he had a break from acting he’d pick up a book. So to him, this place was a wonderland in his eyes. In all honesty, the place itself was stunning. The place felt like you were in a dark academic era like you were living your true harry potter dream. 

The both of you spent about one and a half hours in the library, reading the books, and taking pictures for memories. The library was a magnificent place to visit, it was so calming and relaxing.  ' Maybe I should visit the library more often in my hometown. ' you thought

-

Time skip 

It was the last day of your trip in Rome, and for the last day, you decided to spend it visiting all the famous restaurants and eating their delicious food. For breakfast, you and Evan had scrambled eggs with pancakes paired with a bowl of yogurt with fruits in it. It was pretty good, the pancakes were really soft and fluffy but it’s quite a simple meal.

For lunch, Evan found a cute booth restaurant where they provided props for you to take pictures. The food there was also great but Evan and you were way too distracted with all the goofy photos you both had taken. Your favourite photo that was printed out was Evan wearing a horse mask and you couldn’t stop laughing hysterically.

It was the last few hours before leaving Rome, so Evan suggested ending the trip with a fancy dinner. When you thought fancy, you didn’t expect it to be this luxurious. It was a rooftop dinner, and you could see all the beautiful building lights and the sunset. It was a breathtaking view, and of course, you took a lot of pictures. You couldn’t resist, the moment had to be snapped down so you could look back on it in the future. The food they served was also spectacular, it was definitely worth the visit.

Sadly, your trip to Rome was over and you were almost at the end of your vacation. Looking at the bright side, you and Evan still had one more country to travel to.

-

Paris, France

This choice was a mutual agreement between the two of you, but in your head, the only reason you wanted to travel to Paris was that you wanted to propose to Evan under the Eiffel tower. The ring you got him was just a simple silver band that had both your initials engraved inside. Yea it’s kinda funny because you, the girl, were the one proposing as according to society men should always do it. But you didn’t care, you had dated him for about 5 years now and you knew he was the right one. Not one relationship you were in has lasted this long, sure you both had your ups and downs in this relationship. But no couple is perfect without a few arguments. It’s normal and what’s more important is that the both of you are still together, loving each other. You were deciding to do it on the second last day of the trip, at midnight when the Eiffel tower lights up.

Little did you know, Evan had the same plans.

-

Two days before the proposal 

Evan had the brilliant idea to go to a nearby pub and get absolutely wasted. You didn’t drink much as you were in a country you aren’t familiar with. Unlike Evan, he went all out and now you were dragging him back to the hotel. 

“ Hey who are you and where are you taking me? I already have a girlfriend, a very beautiful one. “ Evan slurred

What he said made you guffawed, if only he could see himself and how cute he was. Evan looked at you confused, not understanding what was making you laugh. You kept quiet about the real ‘ secret ’ to see what other nonsense comes out of his drunken brain. 

“ Why are you laughing? My girlfriend is great and you would never compare to her. Only she can take my heart, she has it and it’s never gonna change. “ Evan made an angry pout

“ Oh really? “ you chuckled 

Evan nodded then sloppily, banged his head onto your shoulder and fell into tight sleep. You were already walking to your hotel room when he passed out so you didn’t need to carry his weight anymore. Flopping him down onto the soft bed and stripping his clothes that reeked of stale beer, replacing them with a fresher pair. 

As you were walking to the bathroom to brush your teeth so you could join Evan in bed, you felt hands on your waist and a breath against your neck. The hot breathing was replaced with lips, making wet trails down as he tried pulling off your shirt. Drunk-horny Evan was always something else, but you knew he wasn’t really controlling his mind so you didn’t want to do anything he might not be aware of. Carefully removing his head that was buried in your neck and cupping it.

“ Uh uh, we can’t make love yet when we’re not even married. Not until you put a ring on this finger. “ you joked, pointing to your ring finger.

“ Really? Then I guess I’ll have to marry you now. “ Evan mumbled as he got onto one knee

You chuckled to yourself as you pulled up sloppy Evan off the ground, bringing him back into bed to snuggle. As you much rather cuddle with your love than have a sexy time right now, definitely not when you’re about to propose. You wanted the moment to be perfect and full of love before you proposed, wanting it to be special and memorable. 

-

The day of the proposal

For Evan’s plan, he wanted to bring Y/n somewhere cosy. Just them and no one else, he was thinking about watching a movie while having a picnic in the park at night. Getting all her favourite snacks and watching the movie she most adored, the notebook. And as they walk back, strolling hand in hand is when he will surprise her by getting onto one knee. Oh, what a dream it sounds like.

But Y/n had a different idea, she wanted to snuggle in bed and sip on champagne before going to the Eiffel tower because ‘ she wanted to see the pretty lights ‘. Nope almost the opposite, she wanted him to feel warmth in his heart as she kneels on her knee while the lights of the tower sparkles behind them once the clock hits 11.45 pm, the last Eiffel tower light show of the day. She wanted him to be the one feeling special in the moment.

Of course, they both didn’t know what each other was planning behind their backs so let the fun begin.

-

You both sat there in bed, snuggling and drinking champagne while watching a random movie that played on the television, just like how you wanted to. Until Evan abruptly suggested we go have a picnic at a park near the hotel. It was quite late already so you were confused about why he wanted to go but anything that made him happy.

Wearing sweatpants and one of Evan’s hoodie before packing even more coverage with them as the weather in Paris was starting to get chilly. Evan sneaked some snacks into his bag with his computer and, of course, the magic velvet box. You as well brought the square box, dropping it into your pocket so after the picnic you could propose.

Walking to the park hand in hand with the love of your life whose smile shined in the moonlight, making yourself smile. Finding a patch of grass near a tree, you laid the mat over the ground and put down your things. You sighed as you sat down against the trunk of the tree, listening and gazing into beautiful nature.

“ Close your eyes “ Evan instructed 

Scrunching your face in confusion but did as told anyway. You heard some rustling, concerned about what he was doing but as you opened your lids, a gasp slipped out. He had his computer opened with the notebook on the screen and all your favourite junk foods laid out. Evan would never watch the notebook with you, he thought it was ’ way too cheesy ‘ so the fact he’s watching it with you now is absolutely fortuitous. He also bought your ideal binge-eating snacks that Evan always avoided from your sight so you wouldn’t buy it because ‘ it was way too much salt ‘. Today you were supposed to surprise him but oh did the turntables. 

Evan came to your side and lay next to you, getting more comfortable, as you laid your head onto his lap using it as a cushion. You watched the movie intently as you snacked until feeling a pair of eyes staring at you, looking up you found the culprit. Instead of watching the movie, Evan decided to watch you.

“ Hey focus on the movie it’s on the good part ’’ you said snapping your fingers at him

“ I enjoy this movie better ’’ he mumbled staring at you

Looking at the time in the corner of the computer and seeing it was an hour before the last light show on the tower. It took about a good 30 minutes to walk from here so you closed his laptop and packed away everything, making Evan the one puzzled now.

“ Come on, I had a great time here but it’s my turn to surprise youuu. '' you dragged Evan up

Holding his hand you ran all the way there as now you had 40 minutes left, not letting your lateness ruin your plan. But because of your sprinting, Evan never got the chance to make the moment romantic and pop the question. As you were getting closer to the beautiful attraction, you had 15 minutes left so you gotta be quick. 

Finally, you reached the front of the tower and stopped to catch your breath.

“ Evan, I know you have a lot of questions, but they are going to be answered soon. “ you panted in between your words.

Checking your phone time, 11.41 pm, 4 more minutes, you have to speed things up. Turning Evan around to face the other side.

“ What are yo- “

“ Close your eyes “

Trusting you, he did as you said. Patiently waiting for what you were going to do next. Kneeling, you took out the square box and waited for another minute for the lights to be activated. As time passed, you told Evan to turn around and on cue, the lights sparkled into the night.

“ Evan, I know this might seem weird but I couldn't wait any longer. I just know deep down in my heart you are the one, the one to my forever. Whenever I see your smile shine in the moonlight, it reminds me how in love I am with you. You brought me sunshine when I only saw rain, You bubbled up laughter in me when I only felt pain. Evan, you are the light to my darkness, the puzzle piece I was missing. So please, complete the last piece of the picture by accepting my devotion to you. “

Evan was shocked, frozen on the spot. His silence was starting to make you nervous until he also kneeled, pulling out a velvet box and opening it. It displayed a beautiful coral ring and instead of a normal band, it was a daisy-banded ring. Realisation struck upon you at what was happening, he wanted to propose today as well but at the park.

A tear fell from your left eye, out of joy, not sadness. 

“ Y/n, when I laid my eyes upon you I already knew you were the source of my happiness. When we went on our first date, stargazing, you don’t know how much harder I fell for you. You might of not know but I’m pretty sure the stars above us knew how fast my heart was beating for you. No matter how many times the world rewrote our lives and reality, I know I will always fall for you. You have my heart, please don’t give it back. “

More tears decided to join your previous one and right as you both confessed the love you had for each other, the lights shut off leaving you two in the moonlight. You ran towards Evan and hugged him, sobbing onto his shoulder.

“ Yes yes yes “

Evan chuckled and reached for your left hand, carefully slipping the shiny ring onto your shaking hand. You did the same, taking the ring out of the box and putting it where it belongs. Smiling brightly at each other, Evan leaned in and kissed the tip of your nose and then your lips. The kiss was slow and warm, full of love but before you knew it the tender kiss became a passionate, hungry make-out sesh. 

“ Can I finally make love with you now? Since we’re now engaged “

i don’t really like what i wrote but this took way too long to not post :,)

YouTube categories that give me my will to live again 🌸🌸🌸🌸

🦄Ice skating

🦄Arts n craft YouTubers

🦄The REAL spiritual side of YouTube(wiccan, paganism,the orishas etc)

🦄 Unsolved mysteries cases

🦄Goth/eccentric/sfx makeup tutorial videos

🦄 Creepypasta's

🦄 Urban legend's

🦄Nail art

🦄 Gymnastics videos

🦄Try on haul videos

🦄Animated short films/stories videos

🦄 Miniature houses/resin creations videos

🦄True crime videos

🦄 Documentaries (on LITERALLY anything)

🦄REAL self improvement youtubers

🦄Subs(don't really use them I just love the music and editing of them ☺️)

🦄Origins of mythology/legends videos

🦄 Ancient history of any region videos

🦄Asmr YouTubers

🦄Sime review (yea I know I'm ah big kid whatever 🙄) YouTubers

🦄Doll/toy collection's videos

🦄Room renovations/Decor

🦄Funny cat videos

🦄Animal videos (particularly wolves and foxes)

🦄Item restorations video's

🦄Movie reviews

🦄Meme comps

🦄Fight comps

🦄Cringe comps

🦄Cooking/baking videos

🦄Hair/care/style videos

🦄Music

🦄Road trip videos

🦄 Wilderness/survival YouTubers

🦄 Abandoned places/exploration videos

🦄Glitch in reality videos (if you don't know what they are look I promise you won't regret it 😳😳)

🦄 Top ten Scariest experiences people ever had type videos

🦄 People talking about their near death experiences and what they witnessed on the other side.😳😳 Creepy...

🦄 Bucket list/Things to do when you're bored or broke videos

🦄 Tarot reading videos

🦄Wojack/doomer videos (both comedic and serious)

🦄 Everyday people talking unfiltered about their life/life experiences

🦄Homemade skincare/haircare videos

🦄Old random cartoon clips

🦄 Vlogging channels outside America (particularly places like Japan,Norway, Germany,Bali,South Africa and Sweden)

🦄 Visual reenactments of life in the past videos

🦄Cool and odd cultural customs from other parts of the world videos

🦄Old recorded media from decades past videos

🦄Hiking/biking youtubers

🦄GoPro pov videos

🦄 Extreme weather videos

🦄D I Y videos (stupid or not idc I just love watching others create)

🦄 Genuinely funny storytime videos

🦄The paranormal caught on camera videos

🦄 Health youtubers

🦄 Workout YouTubers

🦄Watching dogs eat raw meat (don't know y I enjoy that lol)

🦄Pet care videos

🦄 Animal enclosures

🦄 Gameplays (No talking 🙅)

🦄 Fashion/clothes making YouTubers

🦄Self enlightenment/abundance minset YouTubers

🦄 Interesting podcast with CIVIL discourse

🦄Night/day drive pov videos

🦄shitty reading from Wattpad videos

🦄Black pill content (sorry not sorry it's genuinely hilarious to see incels seething hard asf in comment sections)

🦄Top ten unknown type videos

Theirs more but I honestly forgot anyways I have been inspired to make a list of my fave YouTubers sooo stay tuned bubbles babes.🌸🌸🌸🌸

Top 10 Vacation Destinations for an Unforgettable Girls' Getaway

Planning a vacation with your closest group of girlfriends is an excellent way to create lifelong memories and strengthen your bond. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or vibrant nightlife, the world is full of incredible destinations perfect for a girls' getaway. We've curated a list of the top ten vacation destinations that promise an unforgettable experience, ensuring that your trip will be nothing short of amazing.

1. Bali, Indonesia:

Bali offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Relax on picturesque shores, explore ancient temples, indulge in spa retreats, and enjoy vibrant nightlife in Seminyak. Bali offers an ideal combination of relaxation and adventure for a rejuvenating girls' getaway.

2. Barcelona, Spain:

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Barcelona is a city that never sleeps. Experience the mesmerizing architecture of Gaudí, stroll along Las Ramblas, savor delicious tapas, and dance the night away in its legendary nightlife scene. Barcelona will ignite your senses and leave you craving for more.

3. Tulum, Mexico:

Tulum's idyllic beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and bohemian vibe make it an irresistible destination for a girls' trip. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins, swim in cenotes, practice yoga on the beach, and indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine. Tulum's natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable getaway.

4. Reykjavik, Iceland:

For adventurous souls, Reykjavik is a dream come true. Marvel at stunning waterfalls, soak in geothermal hot springs, go glacier hiking, and chase the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Iceland's unique landscapes and natural wonders will create unforgettable memories with your girlfriends.

5. Santorini, Greece:

Santorini's breathtaking sunsets and iconic blue-domed churches make it one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. Explore charming villages, relax on stunning beaches, indulge in delicious Greek cuisine, and experience the lively nightlife. Santorini's romantic ambiance and beauty will captivate you.

6. Tokyo, Japan:

For an exciting and vibrant city experience, Tokyo is a must-visit destination. Explore the bustling streets of Shibuya, indulge in world-class shopping, discover ancient temples, and enjoy incredible sushi. Tokyo seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, offering a unique cultural experience for your girls' getaway.

7. Cape Town, South Africa:

Cape Town combines natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, explore the breathtaking Cape Winelands, visit Robben Island, and relax on the pristine beaches. Cape Town's diverse attractions and warm hospitality will make your trip truly unforgettable.

8. New York City, USA:

If you and your girlfriends crave a cosmopolitan adventure, look no further than New York City. Explore iconic landmarks, shop on Fifth Avenue, catch a Broadway show, and immerse yourself in the city's diverse culinary scene. New York's energy and excitement will make your girls' getaway an unforgettable experience.

9. Queenstown, New Zealand:

For the adventurous souls seeking adrenaline-fueled activities, Queenstown is the ultimate destination. Experience bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and explore the stunning landscapes of the South Island. Queenstown's adventure opportunities and breathtaking scenery will leave you in awe.

10. Marrakech, Morocco:

Immerse yourself in the exotic charm of Marrakech. Get lost in the bustling souks, visit stunning palaces and mosques, enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, and relax in beautiful riads. Marrakech's vibrant culture and warm hospitality create an enchanting atmosphere for your girls' getaway.

Embarking on a girls' getaway is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories and strengthen lifelong bonds. From exotic beaches to vibrant cities and adventurous landscapes, these top ten vacation destinations offer something for every group of friends. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, these incredible destinations will ensure an unforgettable experience. So gather your girlfriends, pack your bags, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

12095Khz 0359 27 JAN 2024 - BBC (UNITED KINGDOM) in ENGLISH from TALATA VOLONONDRY. SINPO = 55445. English, ID@0359z pips and "The Real Story" preview. @0401z World News anchored by David Harper. A New York jury has decided Donald Trump should pay $83.3m (£65m) for defaming columnist E Jean Carroll in 2019 while he was US president. He vowed to appeal the latest ruling, calling the case a witch hunt and the verdict "Absolutely ridiculous!" "This is a great victory for every woman who stands up when she's been knocked down, and a huge defeat for every bully who has tried to keep a woman down," Ms Carroll said in a statement. The ICJ, the UN's highest legal body, has recognised that the situation in Gaza is catastrophic. Crucially, it said that situation was "at serious risk of deteriorating further" before the court delivers its final verdict on the charge of genocide, a process that could take years. As a result, it made several demands of Israel, broadly in line with most of the nine "provisional measures" demanded by South Africa. By large majorities the court's 17 judges ruled that Israel should do everything in its power to avoid killing Palestinians, causing them serious bodily or mental harm, creating intolerable living conditions in Gaza, or deliberately preventing Palestinian births. Not a call for a ceasefire, then, but a series of demands that, if implemented, would drastically change the nature of Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Israel vehemently rejects the allegation of genocide, arguing that it is Hamas that's responsible for putting Palestinian civilians in harm's way. An oil tanker is on fire in the Gulf of Aden, its operator says, after Houthis said they hit it with a missile. The strike caused a fire in one of the ship's cargo tanks and firefighting equipment was being used to contain it. US officials told the BBC's US partner CBS the tanker was hit by an anti-ship ballistic missile and a naval ship was responding to its distress signal. There were no injuries reported. Families of British rugby players murdered in the 2002 Bali terror attack have been in Guantanamo Bay to watch the sentencing of two men who conspired to kill them. Their trip is a milestone in their long struggle for justice for their loved-ones. On Friday, the jury, drawn from military officers, sentenced the two men to 23 years. but, as a result of the plea deal, they will only serve six years in detention. Others linked to the Bali attack have previously been convicted and jailed at trials in Indonesia. Venezuela's Supreme Justice Tribunal on Friday upheld a ban which prevents presidential candidate Maria Corina Machado from holding office, upending the opposition's plans for elections planned later this year. The US State Department said Friday night that it had approved the long-delayed sale of F-16 warplanes to Turkey in a delicately orchestrated arrangement with Ankara supporting Sweden’s membership in NATO, and Greece buying fighters from the US. Women and feminists in Kenya will take to the streets on Saturday 27 January to march against the rising cases of femicide. The nationwide protest, dubbed 'Feminists March Against Femicide', will take place in 11 counties in Kenya. US politicians have called for new laws to criminalise the creation of deepfake images, after explicit faked photos of Taylor Swift were viewed millions of times online. There are currently no federal laws against the sharing or creation of deepfake images, though there have been moves at state level to tackle the issue. @0406z "The Real Story" begins. Backyard fence antenna w/MFJ-1020C active antenna (used as a preamplifier/preselector), Etón e1XM. 250kW, beamAz 315°, bearing 63°. Received at Plymouth, United States, 15359KM from transmitter at Talata Volonondry. Local time: 2159.

The elegant Art Deco reception in Broadcasting House, 1930s

A Chrome Spectacle: Wildlife Encounters in Kruger National Park

The entire world is really a value trove of captivating places, each supplying a unique mixture of tradition, history, and normal beauty. From old wonders to modern marvels, these tourist attractions beckon tourists with promises of memorable experiences. In this short article, we will set about a virtual trip to discover several distinguished tourist locations, each adding its distinct elegance to the tapestry of global travel.

The Pyramids of Giza: Our first end is in the center of Egypt, where the Pyramids of Giza stay tall as an enduring testament to individual ingenuity. These old miracles have fascinated explorers and historians for generations, with the Good Pyramid helping as a symbol of architectural prowess and the mysteries of old civilizations.

Banff National Park: Going to the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park unfolds as a majestic landscape of perfect seas, magnificent hills, and abundant wildlife. From the renowned Lake Louise to the picturesque Icefields Parkway, Banff offers a haven for outside lovers seeking adventure amidst wonderful normal surroundings.

Paris, France: Called the "Town of Lights," Paris reflects the minds of thousands having its passionate environment, well-known landmarks, and world-renowned art and cuisine. From the Eiffel System to the Louvre Memorial, every corner of Paris is steeped ever and culture, making it a perennial favorite among travelers.

Machu Picchu: Perched saturated in the Andes Hills, Machu Picchu beckons adventurers having its ancient Incan ruins and breathtaking views. This archaeological wonder, shrouded in water and puzzle, provides a view to the rich social heritage of Peru and the design marvels of the Inca civilization. 86asik

Bali's Shores: For those seeking sun-soaked serenity, the Indonesian area of Bali supplies a paradise of excellent beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rich landscapes. From the holy temples to the lively markets, Bali's distinctive mixture of spirituality and natural beauty creates a charming escape.

Kruger National Park: South Africa's Kruger National Park encourages wildlife lovers on a opera spectacle. House to the "Large Five" and a diverse array of flora and fauna, the park has an immersive experience in the center of the African-american wilderness.

Rome's Colosseum and Forum: In the endless town of Rome, the Colosseum and Forum stand as enduring icons of historical Roman civilization. Discovering these architectural marvels transports readers back in time, allowing them to envision the grandeur of gladiator contests and the political living of the Roman Republic.

Kyoto's Temples and Gardens: Japan's social gem, Kyoto, captivates using its serene temples, old-fashioned tea properties, and meticulously manicured gardens. A social odyssey awaits people who walk through the ancient districts and knowledge the wonder of Kyoto's spiritual heritage.

Niagara Falls: In the borderlands of the United States and Canada, Niagara Falls roars alive, offering an all-natural wonder that leaves spectators in awe. The utter power and beauty of the falls, combined with bordering areas and attractions, create an immersive experience for readers of ages.

Realization: From the old wonders of Egypt to the organic beauty of Banff, the global adventure through these tourist attractions reveals the varied and fascinating nature of our world. Whether seeking ethnic enrichment, outdoor experience, or simply just the beauty of nature, these destinations stand as testament to the richness and selection of our planet's offerings. As we examine these famous web sites, we get a greater appreciation for the tapestry of countries, backgrounds, and areas which make travel a really loving endeavor.

Top 5 Books About Fishing Kayak Spots

You may also be ready to avoid wasting a considerable sum of money by looking online for good deals on used carports. So, in the long term, selecting steel may prevent money. Pond fishing is one of the best methods to turn into a better bass angler. There may be no one rod for every thing.” Leader and tippet is one other space that plagues novice anglers. The depth of the water here is lesser than that of the encompassing area and ranges between 50 and 300 ft because of the presence of underwater plateaus that make up the bank. The waters of the Agulhas Bank are also highly treacherous and shipwrecks are quite widespread right here. The good Bahama Bank occupies an space of 95,798.12 square km off the Bahamas. Located to the northeast of the African island nation of Madagascar, the Saya de Malha Bank occupies an space of 35,000 square km and is part of the Mascarene Plateau, a submarine characteristic within the Indian Ocean. The biggest ocean bank encompasses an space of 280,000 sq. km on the North American continental shelf. Part of the ocean like a shoal or the waters above an underwater hill that's shallower than the encompassing area is known as an ocean financial institution.

The highest depth of the waters above the massive submerged shoal is only about 80 ft. The landmass is a large peninsula with the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the Atlantic to the east. Recreational bowfishermen nonetheless use large numbers of recurves due to their simplicity, gentle weight, ease of operation and adaptability for instinctive shooting. In Oct 26, 2010, there are some disasters that struck Indonesia, Tsunami in Mentawai Sumatra, Mount Merapi eruption in Yogya and floods in Wasior Irian Jaya, but all that disaster doesn't injury the opposite vacationer destinations in Indonesia reminiscent of Bali, Sulawesi, Kalimantan/Borneo, Lombok, and other places, so you continue to can take pleasure in the great thing about Bali Island. Between information trips and tournaments, I still make the effort to return to my roots and stand on the banks of my favourite pond. Absolutely not. http://www.linkagogo.com/go/To?url=116152328 I do, nonetheless, make a concerted effort to stay as far away from the water as I can-particularly when i first arrive. It enters the water quietly, has a very natural, non-threatening profile and won’t spook these wary, big bass.

Shady areas provide bass with each cooler water temperatures and a sense of safety. I’ve additionally observed that bass incessantly look upward for feeding opportunities as I’ve witnessed many pond bass swim toward my bait earlier than it even hits the water. I look for two specific environmental cues when financial institution fishing-wind and shade. Shade is also crucial. One in all South Africa’s greatest fishing grounds, the Agulhas Bank is situated to the south of Cape Agulhas and is part of the African continental shelf. For one of the best sea fishing tackle, you are not going to need to overlook out on what this store has to offer. I’m effectively aware what I’m suggesting is the polar opposite, however hear me out. Speaking personally, there was at all times something transcendent and pioneering about dodging ant hills, chasing thirsty cows out of my honey holes and catching unsuspecting bass with out even needing a boat. Combine a windblown bank with the correct casting angles and you’re giving yourself a superb chance of catching a giant bass. When you’re satisfied you’ve coated the area thoroughly, you possibly can then start transferring nearer to the water to achieve the extra fascinating casting angles.

The area is also a famous fishing ground because it hosts different types of fish. The RMS Titanic additionally sank in an space near this ocean bank. The waters listed below are rich in nutrients as a result of mixing of the two ocean currents of the Gulf Stream and the Labrador Current. Sometimes referred to as the Galapagos Islands of Canada, the Haida Gwaii archipelago is made up of two important islands and one hundred fifty smaller islands. Also, most bowfishers might be accustomed to the feel of compounds because they use them for looking. When you employ a swivel, like in the carolina rig, it's important to re-tie to vary the size of line between the hook and the load. Not solely will you have got a blast, however you’ll have the chance to hone your bass fishing skillset. Make an extended forged and slowly work your bait within inches of the shore and you’ll be shocked by how shallow large bass shall be positioned. There are all the time going to be some massive, shallow pond bass regardless of the time of year, so make your first few casts count and catch them off-guard. We persisted. We were there to float. As I mentioned earlier, there all the time appears to be an excellent inhabitants of shallow bass on small ponds, so I like to start by targeting shallow water.

A Look at Fes Medina - Trip to Morocco

Heidi Scott is an attorney and CPA at the Law Offices of Heidi Scott in Mt. Sterling, Illinois, specializing in estate planning, tax law, and real estate. In addition to her legal work, she owns Schuyler Brown Land Title in Illinois and prepares real estate deeds and transfer papers. Heidi Scott loves to travel and explore different cultures worldwide when she is not busy with work. One of her favorite destinations is Africa, where she spent a few days traveling as far south as Fes.

The former capital city of Morocco, Fes, is the home of one of the oldest civilizations in North Africa, with a history that dates back to the 9th century. For this reason, tourists from all over the world visit Fes for its historical significance. When visiting Fes on tour, you can add a visit to the Fes Medina to your to-do list.

The Fes Medina is a historic old town in Fes. Also called Fes el Bali, the Medina of Fes is the largest and oldest town in North Africa. It is also a UNESCO world heritage site. A walled town, the Medina is also the largest car-free urban area in the world, with bustling markets and ancient architecture. However, the streets are narrow, and navigating through them may be challenging. According to Saltinouhair.com, Google Maps is inefficient in this location compared to other parts of the world.

As a tourist in Fes Medina, you can ask local shops and restaurant owners for directions if you have difficulty navigating the Medina. Also, you should ideally book a hotel inside the Medina walls while exploring the locations. Many gates close around 7 pm in this location, so leaving the walls late in the evening is sometimes difficult.

Mikala Jones, Hawaii surfer known for filming inside waves, dies in surfing accident

Story by By AUDREY McAVOY, Associated Press

HONOLULU (AP) — Mikala Jones, a Hawaii surfer known for shooting awe-inspiring photos and videos from the inside of barreling waves, has died after a surfing accident in Indonesia.

He was 44.

Jones had gone out into the ocean Sunday morning during a trip to the Mentawai Islands off the western coast of Sumatra when his surfboard fin cut his femoral artery, said his father, dentist Dr. John Jones.

The femoral artery is a large blood vessel in the thigh that delivers blood to lower limbs.

“He was a humble artist. His pictures were incredible,” his father said in a phone interview from his Honolulu office on Monday.

Jones' Instagram account shows stunning images of waves curling around him from above while he crouches on his board.

In some shots, a sunset or sunrise is visible through the curved wave opening in front of him.

The elder Jones took photos for surfing magazines starting in the 1970s, but mostly shot from the beach or snapped pictures of other people in the water.

Not his son.

“He was interested in taking pictures while he’s surfing of himself and the wave,” he said.

Born in Kailua, Hawaii, Jones started surfing at about seven or eight years old and began competing in the 12-and-under “menehune” age group a few years later.

He won two national championships as an amateur.

Later, he took on sponsors and traveled to surf spots in Tahiti, Fiji, South Africa and the Galapagos Islands.

Photographers would shoot images of him and other surfers on the waves which would appear in photo spreads in surf magazines. Manufacturers of surf clothing gear featured them in their advertisements.

In the 1990s, Jones began to experiment with taking first-person images of himself on the the water.

Jones attached a camera to fabric fastener on his board and then held the camera under his chin while paddling out to waves lying on his stomach.

He'd grab the camera upon standing and hold it behind himself to take pictures.

He began to use a GoPro after the lightweight cameras were invented and was eventually sponsored by the company.

He used software to stitch together images from multiple GoPro cameras for 360-degree views.

He was aware of the dangers that can accompany surfing, once having an out-of-body experience after nearly drowning.

“He was flying in the sky, and he looked down and his body was floating in the ocean,” his father said. “And then he heard his daughters calling to him ‘Daddy come home.’ And then he went back down into his body.”

He woke up on the reef, having been washed in by waves.

The elder Jones said he's tried to get his four children to wear wetsuits, helmets and other protective gear while surfing.

Surfers are often told to use sandpaper to dull the edges if their fin is too sharp, he said.

“But they’re stubborn, you know?” he said.

Jones is survived by his wife Emma Brereton and daughters Bella and Violet, who split their time between homes in Bali, Indonesia and Hawaii.

In addition to his father, Jones is survived by an older sister and two younger brothers.

His mother Violet Jones-Medusky died in 2011.

___

Associated Press news researcher Jennifer Farrar contributed to this report.

😢🌸🤙

Leaving (Again)

Over 6 months ago I quit my job and had a few going away events before leaving for Nova Scotia to join the tallship Picton Castle. This was to be the ship’s 8th and final world voyage, circumnavigation the entirety of the earth. 30,000 nautical miles & 20 ports—Panama, Galapagos, months across the South Pacific, Bali, South Africa, the Caribbean, and back to Nova Scotia. All in a traditional 3-masted ship, operated by a bunch of hobos (under the direction of people who know what they’re doing). Pre-COVID, the trip consisting of 4 legs was to take about a year—which I signed up for all of. After countless departure delays due to the world shutting down, the green light came for October of 2022. A fall departure (versus spring as originally planned), and new COVID protocols in South Pacific ports meant the trip would now be 18 months and 5 legs. And cost more. I decided to stick to my one year commitment, which would get me to Bali in October of 2023. I figured I could spend a few months in SE Asia. If I loved the ship life, I could see if staying on for additional legs was possible. Options are good!

After arriving in Lunenburg, we were rapidly thrown in ship maintenance work. Because borders had been shut down for years, the ship has not received much attention. There’s a lot of steel that can rust, especially in the Nova Scotia climate. It was honestly quite exhausting, and because our cook had visa related delays we also had to cook for 40 very hungry people in our watch days. It was good to be active though, and see the ship transform over a pretty short time period. Everyone was nice, jolly, and very motivated to make this trip FINALLY happen. The last requirement before loading up the ship and training, was a few days in dry dock for hull scraping/painting, replacing a few underwater parts, and an inspection to seal the deal to embark ‘round the world. The ship motored about 80 miles down the coast and got pulled out of the water in Shelburne. During this time the 25ish of us that stayed behind in Lunenburg were living a 100 year old dock house, in bunks fashioned from 2x4’s and sail canvas. This was fine for a short period, but that many people living in one open room was not ideal. The cold was also very much arriving.

Work went quickly on dry dock and everything looked good. The ship was to come down after 5 days or so. But then it didn’t. A mishap occurred when the shipyard attempted to pull another ship out of the water for a quick emergency leak repair. The massive winch, capable of pulling >500,000 ton vessels had been destroyed. Nearly pulled out of the ground. This type of thing “doesn’t happen.” Ever. But it did. While the Picton Castle was fine, it was stuck on the platform (cradle) until the winch could be fixed. Considering its age, and the fact that many parts were produced by a now defunct foundry, repairing wasn’t an option. The entire system needed to be replaced; a huuuuge fucking job. We were given an estimate of 8 weeks to get the new winch installed. That was 5 months ago…

I and many others decided to skip town vs waiting it out in Nova Scotia. Lunenburg is a super cute town, a rare “urban” UNESCO heritage site even. It’s main income comes from tourism though, and that’s exclusively during the relatively short summer. By October most of the shops close and the population contracts drastically. Bowling and the bar are pretty much the wintertime attractions (curling too?). I’m lucky to have an easy time getting home to Philadelphia, and a home to come to. That’s not the case for the people who sold their houses or were renting them out during the nearly 2 year time away. Or the Australians & Europeans. I visited California folks and my Dad & stepmom in Florida (twice), saw Hamilton and Book of Mormon on Broadway, Gorilla Biscuits (lifelong goal!), and got to spend time with some of my favorite people. It wasn’t all that bad.

I was home for Thanksgiving, Christmas, for the arrival of 2023 and my cousin’s little baby Sonja. Also for Siobhan’s birthday. The first instances of holidays without Siobhan were mostly unreal. There were some years she wouldn’t come East from LA for Thanksgiving or Christmas, so it almost seemed like just another one of those years. These marked the second holidays without her, and the reality of her being gone was cemented. It was really hard. I’m glad I got to be with my mom and family. We were both having a hard time, and went to a Jewish diner for lunch rather than try to celebrate. Unfortunately her birthday was even worse for me, which I did not at all anticipate. It’s weird not knowing what will set off a spiral. It makes coming out of it harder too.

Being idle for so long isn’t good, and I had way too much time on my hands and in my head. I made the decision to head back to Lunenburg in hopes it wouldn’t be much longer till the ship came down. The crew that stuck around were staying in a rented house, and had been taking on various projects through the winter. I’d join the commune, and hopefully get involved in some useful work. A schedule, being productive, feeling like I have some purpose to my days would be beneficial methinks. As it turns out, the shipyard announced the winch is just about done! After 5 months stuck out of the water the Picton Castle will finally be lowered. My timing was good, but maybe I should have came back earlier?!

It’ll still be a few weeks of intense work getting everything loaded on the ship, getting all the running rigging and and sails up, and training us on how to not sink immediately. After being delayed for nearly 3 years because of COVID, another 5 month delay was both ridiculous yet not surprising. We’ll see what goes wrong next…

The Best Beaches in Bali - A South Kuta Beach Tour

https://lifesporttravel.com/?p=598 The Best Beaches in Bali - A South Kuta Beach Tour - https://lifesporttravel.com/?p=598 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4z_3KiM9VBY How To Make Travelling With Small Children Less StressfulTravelling with little kids of the toddler selection can be a headache. Alternatively it can be enjoyable if you stay with a few basic concepts You ought to attempt not to be in a thrill, seems basic, and also it can be. Primarily you need to take your time, and in reality you must enable additional time no issue where you are. Heritage Beckons You to Fatehpur SikriExplore India’s heritage hinterland permeating exuberantly with old globe magnificence. Delve deeper right into Indian history and turn a couple of web pages of the Mughal empire at the UNESCO Globe Heritage Website of Fatehpur Sikri. 3 Things To Do When Looking For Work In SpainThere are even more than 3 points to do when seeking operate in Spain yet after living right here in Almeria in the southerly part of Spain for greater than 10 years, I will certainly reveal you the leading 3 things I have actually uncovered that will considerably enhance your chances of finding a lasting job in Spain. When I initially moved here to Almeria in Spain greater than ten years earlier now, there was lots of work for everybody even the deportee community that talked little or no … Traveling to Disney World With Grandma and Grandpa: Four Ways to Make the Trip Magical for EveryoneA Disney holiday is a magical experience for kids of any ages … even seniors. Yes, you may require to do things a bit differently in order to suit the demands of Grandma and also Grandpa, yet there is something extremely unique regarding sharing a remarkable Disney trip with those that might be older in years, yet are young in heart. Here are a few points you will intend to think about as you prepare your journey to consist of the older participants of your household. Top 10 Inspiring Travel BooksThis might not be your normal listing of traveling publications yet these publications influenced me to load my bags and check out far-off lands. Whenever you are in need of ideas, you can pick any of these publications up as well as get motivated to travel and check out throughout again! So right here are my favourites! A Magical Journey Awaits You in the Dazzling City of LusakaLusaka offers you with a true Zambian experience as there is a great deal to see and do right here. The best of the wildlife is readily available right here. The exotic nightlife of Lusaka is among the most effective elements of the city as it supplies you the absolute best of Zambia’s culture as well as traditions. 11 Travel Gadgets For 2014When travel planning in 2014 it is vital to choose the very best gadgets innovation needs to supply to bring with you. The most effective traveling suggestion for picking travel gadgets is to go for the tiniest, greenest as well as most useful gizmos you can. Below you will find a checklist of my advised gears … My First Trip To South AfricaI was both nervous and also thrilled at the very same time unmind filled with the adventures I was going to experience in South Africa. First I saw the Kruger national forest with was bursting with unique wild animals. This park was built to preserve wildlife and also avoid types from ending up being vanished. I took a trip with one of the most effective game books worldwide on the back of an enormous African elephant. We stayed in typical safari huts surrounded by wildlife. It was an unnerving yet a tranquil experience. Next we went to the city of Durban which is well-known for having an all year sunshine and also its beautiful beaches. Durban is a shopper’s paradise food catering every need. This purchasing paradise varies from highly advanced shopping center to local street bazaars. An Adventurous Holiday In AucklandAuckland is one area which is the best mixture of experience as well as relaxation. Obtain familiarized with the unique wildlife of New Zealand by visiting the famous Auckland Zoo. How to Safeguard Your Things When You TravelTraveling is a wonderful suggestion for anybody who looks for excitement as well as appreciates discovering new things. While so, all vacationers are not insusceptible to problems that have been beleaguering as well several others around the globe: shed or swiped prized possessions. Despite where you will be, remain safe as well as keep your things protect in any way times. New Features Coming to Disney World in 2014Undoubtedly one of the finest motif park facilities in the world, the Walt Disney Globe Resort remains to use magical experiences to over 50 million people annually. 2014 is established to be a huge year for the area where desires become a reality, with a host of new functions for future site visitors to eagerly anticipate. Right here are a few of the most effective for those that have no idea regarding what to anticipate. Mike Izzo https://lifesporttravel.com/?p=598

Travel Like a Local: Experience the World Through Curated Trips!

Are you tired of the typical tourist experience, where you are herded from one crowded attraction to the next? If so, it’s time to try something new. 

Travelling like a local offers a unique and authentic way to experience the world. 

To help you plan your next adventure, we've Authentic Travel experiences showcasing what local travel can offer you.

Planning a Local Experience Trip

Having a successful local travel experience relies on proper planning. Start by researching the destination you are visiting. 

A guidebook and tour company directory will provide more insight. These resources can provide you with a more in-depth experience and help you connect with the local culture. 

Additionally, consider staying in local accommodation. This could be a homestay, a local bed, and breakfast, or even a vacation rental.

Curated Trip Ideas for Different Destinations

Europe:

Food and wine tour in Italy – Get a taste of the local cuisine and learn about the region's wine-making traditions.

Village life in the French countryside – Immerse yourself in the daily life of a small village and experience the unique culture and customs of rural France.

Pub crawl in Dublin, Ireland – Explore the city's famous pubs and learn about the local drinking culture.

Asia:

Market street food tour in Bangkok, Thailand – Sample the street food and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture.

Rice paddies and temples in Bali, Indonesia – Experience the stunning natural beauty of the island and its rich spiritual heritage.

Tea ceremony in Kyoto, Japan – Learn about the traditional tea ceremony and its significance in Japanese culture.

Africa:

Wildlife safari in Kenya – Observe the wildlife of the savanna and learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect them.

Community development tour in South Africa – Meet the local people and learn about the initiatives being taken to improve their lives and build stronger communities.

Cultural immersion in Morocco – Immerse yourself in this fascinating country's rich culture and traditions, from its vibrant markets to stunning architecture.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Local Experience Trip

As you travel locally, it’s important to be open to new experiences, respect local customs and traditions, engage with locals, and even try to learn a bit of the local language. 

These simple steps can help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Summary

You'll get a unique travel experience when you travel like a local. 

With the right planning and a willingness to embrace new experiences, you can create a one-of-a-kind travel itinerary that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the local culture.  So why not book your next Boutique Travel adventure today and start creating memories that will last a lifetime!

International Honeymoon Packages | Book My Chutti

We all have dreamed of an international honeymoon at least once in our lifetime. When the time comes, we search for the best travel agency for an international honeymoon to book the best package because we wanted to spend a hassle-free holiday. We are not very familiar with international destinations, and if it is our first trip abroad, we have no experience. It’s made it easier for us to arrange an international honeymoon trip by booking an international honeymoon package. It's all included in one price, and you don't have to worry about handling each aspect individually.

Considering the increasing popularity of honeymoons in a foreign country, there are many travel agencies out there in India that provided international honeymoon tour packages, making it difficult to choose the best one. Websites that offer all-inclusive honeymoon packages offer the convenience that most people look for when trying to organize their honeymoon.

For choosing the best travel agency for international honeymoon packages we have to consider some factors. Factors like industry knowledge, customer feedback, customizable opportunity, provide value for money offer, a huge to-do list, etc. if you look into the factors to consider before choosing a travel agency, you earn benefits for yourself.

We BOOK MY CHUTTI, fulfill all the factors mentioned above. Book My Chutti is a Company in the business of Tourism formed by experienced people to offer international honeymoon packages. There are a lot of wonderful honeymoon packages for international destinations that you can choose from. We stand committed to giving innovative products and services to the market with a personal and caring attitude. We aim at covering all aspects of Package Tours Management. We have huge expertise in the travel industry. Book My Chutti offers a fully customized package During your holiday, your every need is taken into account. Our travel experts have complete knowledge of all the destinations we offer. Making the most of your time and budget is our goal. Book My Chutti believes sustained satisfaction is more important to us than temporary pleasure. After all, it's your honeymoon trip it should be memorable, and that's why We, Book My Chutti always go the extra mile to make it so. Till now We Have Completed more than 200 Successful International tours. With our help, you can plan a hassle-free vacation in Dubai, USA, Europe, Greece, Egypt, Turkey, South Africa, Singapore, Spain, Bali, Malaysia, Thailand, Maldives, Philippines, and other exotic locations.

EDITORIAL ROUGH DRAFT

In this month’s edition of People, Objects, & Places, there is one place that sings out: the beach. It’s an ever-changing landscape, with tides that come and go and cliffs that erode a bit more each time you visit them. The beach means different things to different people, and these interviews delve into that. We start with an adventurous surfing trip in Bali; drift to a young woman’s childhood in Vanuatu; travel from South Africa to New Zealand; where we finish with an English teacher’s core memories of the local cliffs. Walk with us from Indonesia to Long Bay to everything in between. Walk with us, from shore to shore. 

Our Land Travel Route, roughly 8 degrees south of the equator 

(click on the picture to see a larger image)

Family & Friends,

Salam Pembuka (Greetings)

Eight of us are going on a trip to the archipelago nation of Indonesia.  We will spend time on the islands of Java, the most populous Indonesian island, and Bali.  Our land voyage begins in Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of Java, and ends in Sanur, Bali, a relaxed, quaint seaside town surrounded by many artsy villages renowned as centers for traditional arts & crafts, and folklore performing arts.

Our trip includes hiking/trekking in forests, rice paddles, and around some majestic waterfalls nestled in the rainforests; climbing some active-volcano mountains (Indonesia is situated in the “Ring of Fire” arc, a 25,000-mile-long Pacific-Ocean-basin tetanic fault zone spanning four continents); visiting some 8th to 14th century cultural, religious, and historical heritage sites of this ethnically-diverse nation; and attending several folklore, cultural/religious performing-art shows. 

We will also perform an obligatory ritual, expected of any tourists, of parting with our dollars to procure enough trinkets (oops, I mean mementos) to stuff to capacity our expandable suitcases. 

And, of course, we will repeatedly commit one of the seven cardinal sins by willfully indulging with gusto in the exquisite gastronomy of the locals, notwithstanding the need to repent later on.

We invite you to tag along with us as a virtual member of our traveling group by following our blog, which we will update regularly.  You will, along with us, get to immerse in the country’s history & culture; admire the country’s natural beauty; see what we are seeing; salivate over what we are eating; and meet the people we are meeting, all on a near-real-time basis.

Salam Hormat (Best Regards)

Suzanne & Mehdi

July 2022

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Some Interesting Information About Indonesian

Indonesia, a 17,508-island archipelago nation (of which only about 6,000-plus are inhabited, some only seasonally), is a multi-ethnic (700-plus ethnic groups), multi-religion, multi-language, Muslim-majority nation patched up during the 300-plus-year of Dutch colonial rule ending in the mid-1900s.

Indonesia was initially colonized by the Portuguese in the early 1500s, and subsequently by the Dutch.  Prior to becoming a de jure Dutch colony in 1796, Indonesia was a de facto colony since the 1600s, because the Dutch East Indies Company had established itself as the dominating, neocolonial economic and political power on Java.

The British too had colonized Indonesia beginning in 1814 during the 10-year interruption of the Dutch rule.  During the Napoleonic war and France’s occupation of Netherlands, the British conveniently found another colony for their taking.  And when Napoleon fell from power, the British traded Indonesia with the Dutch for a Dutch colony in West Africa.  Apparently, the parties colonialized had no say in this transaction.

Approximately 10% of the world’s known languages are spoken in Indonesia.  Most Indonesians are perilingual, typically able to speak Bahasa Indonesian, the national language which is a standardized form of Malay; one or two ethnic languages; and, in cities, at least one western language, typically English.

Muslims account for about 87% of Indonesia’s 280 million population (Christians 10%, Hindus 2% and Buddhists less than 1%).  Bali, the island with a population of about 4 million, is predominately (84%) Hindu. Indonesia, the fourth-ranked populous country, has the largest Muslim population in the world.

Early in history, religion in Indonesia was a blend of animism and ancestor worship.  Some of those religions’ practices are incorporated in the latter-day religions which have their roots in India. Hinduism and Buddhism arrived in Indonesia around the 1st century. In the late 13th century, Islam started to make inroads, largely peacefully.  By around the 16th century, Islam became the predominate religion in Java.

Both Hinduism and Buddhism were closely linked to the kingdoms of two ruling families of Java, Indonesia: The Sanjaya dynasty to Hinduism and the Sailendra dynasty to Buddhism. The two dynasties initially coexisted peacefully for several centuries, with intermarriages amongst the plethora of their progenies fortifying the ties.  In that period the kingdoms saw a flourishing of classical Javanese art and architecture.  Much of that is reflected in that era’s music, performing arts, and architecture of the temples.

Some of the Hindu and Buddhist religious monuments from that era are amongst the largest in the world of the respective religions.  It was common in that and earlier eras in SE Asia (and also other parts of Asia) for the rulers to build dynastic monuments, some religious, as was also common for the rulers’ subjects to adopt their rulers’ religion.  The rulers’ desire to build the religious monuments was also driven by their belief that that would wipe out their sins and ease their passage to the “other world” on a preferential basis, a form of “Indulgence” common in some other religions as well.  

Many of those cultural sites were rediscovered and restored years after being buried under volcanic ash and overgrown with forest, or partially destroyed by earthquakes.  Some of that restoration work is still ongoing.

The history of the arrival and spread of Islam in Indonesia is not well known.  One theory postulates that it arrived from the Middle East before the 9th century.  Another, more plausible theory, credits the initial arrival and spread of Islam to the increasing trade links and contacts in the 12th or 13th century with Muslim merchants and preachers from neighborhood countries – India, China and Central Asia.

The Islamization process in Indonesia was largely based on the premise that Islam should be propagated by respecting local cultures, not eradicating them.  Hence, rather than obliterate the preexisting cultures, influences from the Hindu-Buddhist era and the non-Islamic elements of norms and arts were flexibly adopted by creatively reframing them as consistent with Islamic traditions, an effective proselytizing technique commonly employed by many religions.  Even the mosques constructed in that era incorporated indigenous influences.  They lack the familiar Islamic domes and have tall timber-tiered roofs similar to the pagodas of Balinese Hindu temples, which too are influenced by indigenous architecture and culture.

It was not until the early 17th century that Islam caught on under the reign of Agung, the Sultan of the Kingdom in Central Java.  Agung, a skilled soldier, expanded and consolidated his kingdom to its greatest territorial and military power.

Agung’s legacy lies in the administrative, tax-code and judicial reforms he instituted in his ever-increasing large territory.  He is revered in Indonesia for his unification of Java, modernizing reforms, and chutzpah as a resistance fighter against the Dutch, for which, post-independence, he was declared a National Hero of Indonesia.  Even the Dutch grudgingly admired him by calling him “Agung the Great.”

During World War II, the Dutch were driven out of Indonesia by the Japanese.  After the surrender of Japan in 1945, Sukarno proclaimed independence for Indonesia.  Sukarno, who had spent over a decade in detention for his struggles against the Dutch for independence, was freed by the Japanese occupying forces.

Post-Independence, the country was ruled for the first 52 years by two dictators: first by Sukarno, a benign dictator, followed by Suharto, a brutal military General, who wrested power from Sukarno in 1967.  Indonesians dissenting against the regimes paid a heavy price, many with their lives.

Sukarno, resenting the unfairness of the privilege system of the colonial era, took on a decidedly socialist bent with authoritarian tendencies, and cozied up with China and the Soviet Union, as was the fad with many latter-day, newly-independent countries. He considered his authoritarian rule to be “guided democracy” as he did not think Indonesians were ready for a western-style democracy.

Suharto, an avowedly anti-Communist, was more brutal and utterly corrupt.  His anti-communist bona fides during that “red scare” era, earned him economic and diplomatic support of the West (something to do with the “enemy of my enemy…”).  He ruled with an iron fist for the stated purpose of maintaining stability over a diverse nation, and plundered the country, accumulating an estimated net worth of $38 billion.  Under his regime the military slaughtered at least half a million alleged leftists and detained around a million.

Sukarno, the far-sighted charismatic leader known for his oratory, the son of a Javanese Muslim father and Balinese Hindu mother, is credited for successfully resisting the formation of a post-independence Islamic State, arguing that if that happened, peaceful coexistence would cease and that islands dominated by other religions would secede from Indonesia, a cobbled-up country that was never cohesive to start with.  He is revered for the sacrifices he made for seeking the country’s independence and for keeping the nation cohesive.  And Suharto is credited for leading Indonesia through rapid industrialization, economic growth, and improved levels of educational attainment under his “New Order” administration.

It was not until after the 1999 resignation of Suharto, defeated by mounting popular unrest and a collapsed economy he was unable to revive, that the first free election since 1955 was held.  That track record of free political activities and elections has continued for 6 consecutive elections, the most recent in 2019 in which Joko Widodo, known as Jokowi, was elected President for a second five-year term.

The “Economist Intelligence Unit” groups 165 countries in 4 categories, ranging from full democracies to authoritarian regimes, with two tiers in each category.  Indonesia is ranked in the second tier of “flawed democracies” category, a respectable standing.  The U.S. also is ranked in the flawed democracies category, but is in the first tier; Canada is ranked in the first tier of full democracies, the top tier of the top category, one of only eight elite countries listed in that category.

(Another prestigious organization, “The Center for Systematic Peace,” on its Polity Index, recently downgraded the U.S. to a flawed (partial) democracy, reflecting the lingering, damaging impact of the Trump era and the January 6 insurrection on our democratic institutions.  The CIA, (which by law is prohibited from domestic activities) has found this Organization’s data to be most helpful in predicting instability and violence in foreign nations.)

Indonesia, the third largest democracy in the world, with a secular (not sharia) constitution, today is a poster child of a Muslim-majority country with a relatively peaceful co-existence of multi-ethnic, multi-religion, multi-language societies.

5 Exotic Fruits That You Haven’t Heard Of

This summer I can’t travel. It is really a sad fact, but one year post college, I just haven’t accrued the funds to gallivant the world like my heart desires (I mean…in this economy?!). So instead, I have been plotting an endless amount of trips in my head. Most involve Southeast Asia, with a combination of beaches, fish, beverages, beverage with fruit, fruit alone, and awesome people. Since ‘fruit alone’ is healthiest item on my consumption list, I’m going embrace my inner-traveler by blogging about exotic fruits. Specifically, I want to talk about five fruits that most Americans haven’t heard of, and that I plan on gorging on when I finally make it abroad.

You’ll notice that I mention traditional medicinal uses of the fruits. Most of these medicinal uses have not been vetted through rigorous scientific examination, but are interesting to learn about regardless. FoundHealth.com does not actually endorse these medicinal uses! Enjoy, and I hope to catch you on the beaches of Bali soon enough…

Mangosteen:

Origins: Southeast Asia, densely concentrated in Thailand.

Mouthwatering Description: When ripe, the crimson rind should peel away easily. Score the shell with a knife, hold fruit in both hands, pry gently along the score with your thumbs, and pull in half. Inside is a fibrous, white flesh, full of sweet and tangy flavor. The tangy flavor strikes first before melting into a sweeter flavor.

Traditional Medicinal Uses: Mangosteen’s rind is powdered and made into an ointment, and subsequently used to relieve dysentery, cystitis (bladder inflammation), gonorrhea and more. In Malaya, an infusion of mangosteen leaves, combined with unripe banana and benzoin, is applied to the wound caused by circumcision.

Lychee:

Origins: Lychee is native to the low elevations of Southern China, thriving by rivers and seacoast. They can be found prevalently in India, Southeast Asia, Brazil, South Africa, and some parts of Australia.

Mouthwatering Description: Growing in clusters, lychees are generally walnut sized, with strawberry-red, pinkish, or amber colors. The skin is thin, bumpy, and rough, but is easily peeled when ripe. Inside the rough exterior awaits a smooth surprise: a translucent-white flesh surrounding a seed, resembling a luscious grape. The sweet and juicy fruit has a moderately sharp and uniquely distinctive flavor.

Traditional Medicinal Uses: In China, lychee seeds are credited with analgesic properties, and thus are administered for neuralgia (nerve pain). Interestingly, the seed grinds are also given for orchitis (testicle inflammation). In India, the seeds are powdered and given for intestinal issues, and like China, the lychee is known for its analgesic properties. On the flipside, the Chinese say over-consumption of lychee can cause fever and nosebleeds. As legend has it, men used to eat anywhere from 300 to 1,000 lychees, and the results were not so good…

Longan:

Origins: Longan, a fruit similar to lychee, is also native to Southern China, but is not as well regarded. It is also claimed to be native to southwestern India, but the jury is still out (it is a super passionate & completely necessary debate…). It continues to grow in both countries, along with Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Taiwan. Interestingly, the Longan tree grows in the Philippines, but does not fruit.

Visit here for more about 5 Exotic Fruits That You Haven’t Heard Of