Nim Li Punit Mayan Ruins in Indian Creek, Belize

The Nim Li Punit Mayan Ruins is a Maya Classic Period Site (years 200-900) in the Toledo district in Belize. It is often referred to as Big Hat or Top Hat, which refers to a stela sculpture of one of the kings. Once a vibrant site from 5th to 8th century, it had three plazas, a ball court, a few step-pyramids, and carved stelae illustrating the rulers of the city.

Read More
Belize Spice Farm & Botanical Gardens in Golden Stream Village, Belize

The Belize Spice Farm and Botanical Gardens is a big attraction in Belize. There is great variety in the plants grown here. We were able to take a tour on a tractor pulled trailer, which seats about twelve people. There is also option of a golf cart for smaller tour groups. There are also tricycle carts and a walking option. The hour long tour is educational and interactive.

Read More
Pristine Bay Resort and Golf Club in Roatán, Honduras

An apt name for this place, Pristine Bay Resort and Golf Club is a premier resort in Roatán Honduras. We landed upon here for an excursion on a cruise. Adjacent to the pool area is a massive golf area for fans of the sport. The property is multi-level, taking advantage of the natural hilliness of the land. The biggest tier is the one with the pool.

Read More
Studying Abroad in London, England

I went to school and worked at my internship, living a quiet existence. I was rather alone and part of me relished in that solitude. I read. I wrote. I soaked in the London mist. I felt it was a "writerly" place, all solemn and gray. I had days when I went out to explore. I had days when I stayed in to watch junk on the television and did some writing. It felt perfect, all of it.

Read More
Old City in Bern, Switzerland

Not much has changed in the old city of Bern. The medieval city center is built upon a hill, shaped by the Aare River. The facades of buildings and its inhabitants are slightly modernized, but there is still that old charm. Founded in the 12th century, the city holds historical remnants, including 15th century arcades and 16th century fountains. The wide streets were built specifically for the market. It is city planning at its finest. The streets are well laid out and there is intrigue to the building facades and roofs.

Read More
Bear Pit in Bern, Switzerland

Bears have always been native to Bern and it’s said that city owes its name to this wild creature. The bear pit has been revamped to keep bears, and a new section called the BärenPark allows the bears to roam more freely. Current residents are bears Björk and Finn who are mother and father respectively, to cubs Ursina and Berna.

Read More
Walk Along the Aare in Bern, Switzerland

So many old European cities are centered around bodies of water and often, it is rivers. A stroll along the Aare River in Bern, Switzerland does not disappoint. At 288 kilometers, it is the longest river entirely within Switzerland. In the summer, people do jump right in and float along with the currents either by swimming or by raft, seeing Old Town right above them. Those less inclined to get wet can simply take a stroll along the river, soaking in the views.

Read More
The Cathedral of Bern in Bern, Switzerland

The Cathedral of Bern, the largest and arguably the most important late gothic building in Switzerland, boasts many architectural wonders and details for the eyes to unravel. As with most old churches, it offers amazing views from the top. Just 312 steps brings you to the top where you can see the Bernese Alps in the distance and the cityscape.

Read More