Stowaway Winter 2019 by Brigham Young University Editing Students

Winter 2019

Stolen Art

Ancient Greek Sculptures & International Politics Finding the Fjord Life Above the Death Zone Hold the Gluten

Photo Contest Winner

Taj Mahal; Agra, India; Karissa N. Hilton

Maryn Turley

Managing Editor

Michael Morris

Assistant Managing Editor

Alexandra Palmer Assistant Managing Editor

Jacob Rawlins Editor in Chief

DESIGN

K.C. Miller Elizabeth Edwards

WEB

Jerica Nicholls Rebecca Timmons

Eleanor Lewis

Hayden Wise

SOCIAL MEDIA

Hannah Murdock

Natalie Davis

ADVERTISING

Laci Player

Amy Johnson

Stowaway is produced as a project for English Language 430R, Editing for Publication, the capstone class of the editing minor at Brigham Young University. All staff members contributed to planning, writing, editing, designing, and advertising. The views expressed in this publication are solely the views of the authors and do not represent the views or opinions of BYU. Stowaway takes inspiration from the words of Mark Twain: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

Letter from the Editor

I grew up in Salem, Utah, which installed its first traffic light when I was a junior in high school. When you walk into the post office, you are greeted by name. And, on the first Saturday in August, the city feeds everyone breakfast. While there is a certain small-town charm to Salem, my soul has always longed to be a part of a larger world. I grew up playing historical trivia for fun and escaping from life into Jane Austenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s British manors again and again. The cultures of the world outside of my little town fascinated me. Every time I journeyed outside of my isolated community, I was left in awe. Traveling exposed me to cultures that had existed for hundreds of years and in no way resembled the life I had experienced. When I drove through the Scottish hills, I was impressed by the feeling that people had been farming on them for thousands of years. I respected the experience in a way I had not anticipated. Additionally, when I observed hand weavers making traditional blouses in Guatemala, I was amazed. The weavers could effortlessly thread in and out of the lines to create tiny figures of cats or birds without even looking, trained by years of repetition and childhoods spent watching the generations before them do the same. The history of the world lives on in the day-to-day lives of people all over the planet. And, while we play a small part in that history, we should appreciate it while we can. Through traveling, I finally connected to the larger world and made sense of my thirst for history. Traveling can allow others to do the same. I believe that humans have an innate desire to come together, which we can accomplish through traveling and seeing other cultures. In this issue of Stowaway, you will have the opportunity to reimagine life in a world of opposites and contradictions, such as fire and ice. You will also be able to access the remnants of historical civilizations across the world. As you explore the lands and ways of life outlined in this issue, I hope you find inspiration for your own life and gain a greater understanding of how we all fit into this point of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Maryn Turley

Photo Contest Winner Staff Page Letter from the Editor Happenings State Fair Volcanic Vacations Ice Capades Photo Contest Runners-ups

Getaways

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12 14 16 20 22 24

Alaska Petrified Forest Land of Fire and Ice Paradise Found Walk Like an Egyptian Catch the Classics

Features

WINTER 2019

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Stolen Art Dark Tours Sharing the Sacred City South Korea Collapsing Colonies

Color in the Dark Taipei Night Markets Trucks by the Bay Hold the Gluten

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Life Above the Death Zone Vesuviusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Victim Sugar Highway Finding the Fjord

Insider

Unearthly Places

Field Notes

Culture

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Best or Bust? Hiking Gadgets Mint Condition A Storm is Coming

Happenings

State Fairs ★

★ ★ ★ ★ Fried butter anyone? Discover what fun attractions you should see and fried food you should eat at some of the nation’s top-rated state fairs.

OC Fair

Though not a state fair, the OC (Orange County) Fair is open for nearly a month from mid-July to mid-August. If you want to see something unique, be sure to stop by Oasis Camel Dairy’s camel milking demonstration. If cheese is more up your alley, enter the cheese carving contest. It’s free to participate, so start sharpening your carving skills. Need a sweetand-salty food fix? Try Biggy’s Caramel Crack Fries—french fries topped with cinnamon sugar, salted caramel sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles. This fair is sure to satisfy all your taste buds.

Minnesota State Fair

If you’re in the northern Midwest during the end of August, be sure to drop by the twelve-day Minnesota State Fair. Feeling gutsy? Stop by the CHS Miracle of Birth Center, one of the most popular free exhibits at the fair. The center witnesses the birth of 200 calves, lambs, goats, and piglets during the fair. Or, watch a sculptor carve the likeness of Minnesota’s annually crowned dairy ambassador, Princess Kay of the Milky Way, into a ninety-pound block of butter. Don’t forget to snack on some deep-fried cheese curds before you leave!

Texas State Fair

The Texas State Fair is twentyfour days long, and starts at the end of September. This state fair offers a “stunt show” performed by dogs. The All-Star Dog Stunt Show showcases rescued dogs that have been trained to perform outstanding tricks! The fairgrounds also have several stages for live music performances, so don’t leave before listening to some great music or before chowing down on some fresh corn dogs.

Above: People wandering the Minnesota State Fairgrounds (Waking Gades Photography) Left: Map of the United States (Theshibboleth. CC BY-SA 3.0)

North Carolina State Fair

Goats and people alike participating in yoga (Hans Watson. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

The eleven-day North Carolina State Fair is open during October. If you’re a hands-on kind of person, try milking a cow! Don’t worry, the Animal Science Club from North Carolina State University will be there to help you out. If you love fireworks, the North Carolina fairgrounds are the place to be; you can expect a spectacular fireworks show every night during the fair. What a way to finish an autumn day! Just don’t forget to try a new flavor of funnel cake, like Cheerwine or Blue Hawaiian, before you go.

Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair runs for eleven days in mid-August. Bring your own yoga mat and enjoy a refreshing session of goat yoga at the fair—you never know how goats, ducks, piglets, chicks, and other farm animals can help you relax until you give them a chance! Also, attend a huge Sunday dinner with Iowan farmers at a 500-footlong table. What’s better than good company and tasty food? If you’re feeling ambitious, be sure to try a deep-fried cherry pie on a stick before the fair ends.

—Rebecca Timmons Sources: ocfair.com, www.mnstatefair.org, www.exploreminnesota.com, bigtex.com, www.visitraleigh.com, and www.iowastatefair.org

Getaways “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” —Saint Augustine

Experience the Wonder and Adventure

f you love outdoor adventures, Alaska is the weekend getaway for you. There are many excursions to choose from, ranging from half- to full-day tours.

Full-Day Adventures

Anchorage: There are a number of activities within reach of this main city, including opportunities to see wildlife; to explore glaciers, mountains, and lakes; and even to go out on an ocean cruise alongside Portage Glacier. Fairbanks: Going north, you can explore the Arctic Circle with a number of tours by air or land. See landmarks including the TransAlaska Pipeline or the Yukon River.

(Christoph Strässler, cropped)

Stop in the town of Joy to wait for the appearance of the aurora borealis. Seward: Consider going on the Bear Glacier Kayaking, Jet Boat, and Helicopter Tour. A jet boat speeds you to Bear Glacier––the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. From there, you’ll paddle a kayak around massive icebergs and return by helicopter while admiring amazing aerial views of backcountry Alaska and its wildlife.

Half-Day Tours

White Pass Deluxe Tour out of Skagway: A three-hour guided tour winds through Skagway’s downtown area and takes you to the Gold Rush Cemetery. You’ll

Kenai Fjords National Park (Jim Pfeiffenberger, cropped)

(Vincent Guth, cropped)

cruise along the summit and admire the Tormented Valley and other landmarks like the Trail of ‘98, Bridal Veil Falls, Frazier Valley, and Moore Bridge.

“Learn about the science behind the northern lights.” Flightseeing Wilderness Bear Viewing Tour: Take a flight in a bush plane to the best locations in the world for bear viewing and photography. After the flight, you will touch down in the peaceful wilderness of Katmai National Park or Lake Clark National Park, where you can hike to different vantage points to observe bears in their natural habitat. Whitewater Rafting: Choose

(Markus Trienke, cropped)

the level of difficulty you are comfortable with as you float along Six Mile Creek around the foot of the glacier.

Winter Tours

Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks: A night trip from Fairbanks takes you to Chena Hot Springs Resort for an exciting but relaxing array of activities. Be sure to see the eye-popping sculptures at the on-site Aurora Ice Museum and to enjoy the mineral water baths. When the conditions are just right, your guide will take you to the best locations to watch the northern lights. Northern Lights Viewing: Treat yourself to a truly Alaskan experience. A team of happy hounds speeds you through snowy scenery before you are whisked off

to a cabin for a home-cooked meal. After dinner, you can turn to the cabin’s large north-facing windows and experience the wonder of the aurora borealis. Northern Lights Murphy Dome Viewing in Fairbanks: Learn about the science behind the northern lights while touring the former United States Air Force General Surveillance Radar Station. Located on one of the tallest peaks in the region, Murphy Dome provides one of the best vantage points to witness the aurora borealis. When it is time to head home, you will leave with an appreciation of Alaska’s beauty, wonder, and adventure, along with the desire to return again soon.

—Amy Johnson

Petrified

Forest

he Petrified Forest National Park in northern Arizona is a geological and historical wonderland that takes a full weekend to explore. In the late Triassic period, 220 million years ago, the region was a swampy, subtropical area, home to dinosaurs and giant amphibians. Now, their fossils fill this arid desert and

(Chris M Morris)

remind us of a different era. The most striking fossils are the petrified logs from which the park gets its name. While they look like any old stumps from the outside, the insides of these trees are filled with beautiful marbled formations of jewel-toned quartz. The park is also home to thousands of years of human history. The first humans settled the

Painted Desert in about 6,000 BC and left behind painstakingly preserved ruins and petroglyphs. Take a weekend to experience millions of years of history and life at the Petrified Forest National Park. Here are some of the mustsee landmarks to check off during your visit.

Rainbow Forest Museum

The Rainbow Forest Museum is an excellent place to start your visit to the park and to gather information about the various highlights of the season. The museum is home to many paleontological exhibits. You can also watch an eighteen-minute-long orientation film about the park that is shown continually throughout the day. Make sure to gather tips for your weekend from the park rangers stationed here.

Agate House

Hike for a mile on the trail south of the Rainbow Forest Museum and you will find the Agate House, an eight-room pueblo built almost completely out of petrified wood, which archeologists believe was occupied over 700 years ago. While hiking to the Agate House, enjoy the aptly named Long Logs and the Giant Logs on the trail, the highest concentration of petrified logs in the park. (Richie Diesterheft)

Blue Mesa Trail

Ten miles north of the Rainbow Forest Museum, you will find the trailhead for the Blue Mesa Trail. On this one-mile loop, meander among the wrinkled, bluish hills of the badlands, which get their unusual color from a high concentration of gray bentonite clay in the soil. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a short, easy trail that displays a stunning and unearthly landscape dotted by petrified wood deposits.

Puerco Pueblo

Puerco Pueblo is the site of an ancient community from around AD 1300. It has remains from over one hundred connected rooms around a central plaza, and it was probably home to about 200 early indigenous people. Before you leave, make sure to view the petroglyphs on display. (Jirka Matousek)

These are just some of the many trails and attractions to be found at the Petrified Forest National Park. During your visit, consider taking a ranger-guided tour or even a backpacking trip through the wilderness. You will not regret taking a full weekend to explore all the nooks and crannies of this beautiful and ancient place.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Elizabeth Edwards

Land of

Fire Ice and

(Michael R. Morris)

A Journey to the End of the Earth Plenty of hikes will lead you to a spectacular view, but there is only one journey that will take you to the end of the earth. Welcome to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world. Ushuaia is located on the southern coast of the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego (which translates to The Land of Fire’s Big Island). It is surrounded by the Beagle Channel on one side and by the Martial Mountains on the other. Because of the variety of places to explore and the exciting attractions available, the “Land of Fire” is one of the hottest destinations in Argentina.

Isla Martillo

One of the most popular attractions in Ushuaia is Isla Martillo, also known as Penguin Island, where more than six thousand penguins live every year between October and April. You can take a boat ride to the island and then experience a guided tour, getting as close as two meters away from the penguins. If you’re planning a trip to Ushuaia, this island is a must-see.

Tierra del Fuego National Park

Tierra del Fuego National Park is filled with dramatic landscapes that include waterfalls, forests,

mountains, and glaciers. While here, you can hike trails between lakes and mountains, take the End of the World Train tour that runs through the park’s forest, or visit the Cormoranes archipelago to see the local wildlife. Whatever adventure you choose, you’ll be amazed by the natural beauty of the national park.

Outdoor Adventure

See the world from a new perspective by hiking Martial Glacier, one of the world’s most beautiful natural attractions. Other outdoor activities include trekking up Mount Carbajal to see the Turquoise Lagoon, one of Ushuaia’s

hidden beauties. Or you could go skiing at the Cerro Castor resort, which has one of the longest ski seasons in South America. There’s a different outdoor adventure waiting for everyone who visits Ushuaia.

Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse

If you’re looking for a little fresh air, you can take a boat ride out to see an Argentine piece of history known as Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, which has helped lead ships safely to port for almost one hundred years. The red and white brick lighthouse is thirty-three feet tall and overlooks a small island often inhabited by penguins and sea lions.

(Michael R. Morris)

Lodging and Culinary Delights

At the end of every exciting day, don’t forget to take some time to relax. Eat at any one of the many beautiful lodges and hotels in Ushuaia where restaurant options range from fresh seafood to delicious steakhouses to traditional Argentine cuisine. After you’ve eaten, enjoy an evening at the spa or curl up with a book by the fireside, making the perfect end to your day. A vacation to Ushuaia is a journey that you will never forget. So pack your bags—the end of the earth is waiting.

—Michael R. Morris Jr.

(Michael R. Morris)

STUDY ABROAD

ENGLISH LANGUAGE IN GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND June 24 to August 10, 2019 Visit England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales to experience the origins and dialects of the English language. Courses offered include: ELANG 324: History of the English Language ELANG 468: Varieties of English ELANG 524: History of the Book

linguistics.byu.edu/elangbritain

Paradise Found A Guide to Visiting the Galápagos

(Rebecca Timmons)

ait, people actually live on the Galápagos Islands? Yes, yes they do. Located about 600 miles off the western coast of Ecuador, the island group of the Galápagos is home to several thousand people. Of the thirteen major islands, five are inhabited by Ecuadorians, most of whom live on the islands of Santa Cruz and San Cristóbal. Puerto Ayora, the largest city on Santa Cruz, is a thriving tourist’s paradise complete with gift shops, restaurants, and nearby

sightseeing. Many tourists are attracted to these tropical islands, situated less than one degree south of the equator, for their exotic plant and animal life and their breathtaking beaches. It’s not every day that you get to see a five-hundred-pound tortoise or set foot on a beautiful, uninhabited island. Because traveling to the islands can be pricey, plan on staying for a week or longer in order to get the most out of the tropical experience. The following are a few of the most popular sites to help you plan your getaway.

Charles Darwin Research Station

When most people picture the Galápagos Islands, they think of huge land tortoises and iguanas. The place to see these incredible animals is the Charles Darwin Research Station. The research station has a hatchery for tortoises, so you can see baby tortoises grow into the enormous ones you’ve always imagined. Near the tortoise hatchery, you can learn about Charles Darwin’s famous finch find and see large land iguanas.

Cruises

Typical Ecuadorian seafood dish, ceviche, served with lime and chifles

While you’re walking from place to place, it’s common to see a variety of other wildlife, such as marine iguanas sleeping in the sun. So, be sure to watch your step and always carry a camera.

Tortuga Bay

The beaches on the Galápagos are gorgeous. If you go in the early hours of the morning, you’ll find yourself alone, but at any other time of the day, the beaches will be crowded with locals and tourists alike. An especially beautiful and popular beach is Tortuga Bay. You don’t want to miss a chance to wiggle your toes in its white sand while gazing out into the teal-green Pacific Ocean. Just be sure to bring sunscreen.

Ecuadorian dishes, such as encebollado or caldo de bola. Lunch is the largest meal of the day in Ecuador, so don’t be surprised if you can’t find a separate lunch menu when you sit down at a restaurant. Be sure to try the patacones—fried green plantains. You might like them better than you like your typical french fries.

Puerto Ayora is a port city for both fishermen boats and cruise ships. If you’d like to travel to the other islands, take a cruise. These cruises offer a variety of tropical activities that will help you enjoy the full experience of visiting the Galápagos. For example, you can snorkel with tropical fish and see marine wildlife up close. Many cruises last longer than a week, so plan accordingly. Authentic Ecuadorian food is served on the ships, so you can’t go wrong with a cruise through the islands. A hidden gem in the Pacific, the Galápagos Islands will surpass your dreams of visiting exotic places and enjoying the beach, all at the same time. Brush up on your Spanish, pack your swimsuit, and you’ll be sure to have a great time!

—Rebecca Timmons

Source: www.britannica.com

Restaurant Hub The closer you get to the boardwalk, the more touristy activities you’ll find. There are dozens of local restaurants to choose from, each with a selection of fresh seafood and typical

walk like an

n the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt, the Arab World’s army continues to combat the Islamic State’s attacks. As of October 2018, this war has forced as many as 20,000 families in the North Sinai Governorate to flee the fighting. With this devastating war continuing, it would be easy to assume that Egypt is not a safe place to travel. While you should avoid the Sinai Peninsula, there are plenty of places in Egypt where you can safely visit that will leave you in awe.

For Religious Explorers

Religion has played a massive role in Egypt’s history, and thus, it plays a role in many of the country’s tourist sites.

While you are in Old Cairo, visit the Coptic area. Here you can see the Hanging Church—the site where the Virgin Mary is said to have visited Abraham as he prayed to accomplish the miracle of moving Mokattam Mountain. You could also attend a mass in one of the churches: you not only gain a richer religious experience but you also get to hear ancient Egyptian, which, unlike the written language, has been preserved from the earliest days of Christianity. On the West Bank of Luxor, swing by the Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III at Medinet Habu. This is one of Egypt’s best-preserved ancient temples. Besides its size, architectural importance, and artistic history, the temple is known as the source of inscribed reliefs which depict the life and defeat of the Sea Peoples.

gyptian Cairo, sometimes called the City of Minarets, houses an endless number of mosques. Of all these mosques, consider visiting the mosque of Mohammed Ali. Its location on the summit of Saladin Citadel as well as its stunning architecture makes it a dramatic must-see. Mohammed Ali—the Ottoman commander, not the American boxer—had the mosque built in Ottoman architectural style rather than the traditional Mamluk style. The Ottoman style, combined with other features like massive minarets, made it a declaration of de facto Egyptian independence, since many of these architectural features were reserved for structures commissioned by the sultan. Another lovely destination is the Aqmar Mosque, which was built in AD 1125 during Egypt’s Fatimid era. The Aqmar Mosque is located in Old Cairo and is Egypt’s oldest remaining example of a small mosque.

For Museum-Minded

If museums are your thing, there are more than enough in Egypt to tempt you. One of these is the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo. This museum features all art mediums, but it also offers workshop courses such as one in archaeological excavation. Another interesting museum to visit is the Mummification Museum in Luxor. This museum houses many artifacts you would expect to see, but historians also guide visitors through the mummification process, outlining the details and history. The Alexandria National Museum is considered one of Egypt’s finest museums, and it is housed in the stunning Al-Saad Bassili Pasha Palace. While many of Egypt’s museums were originally built to simply store antiquities, the Alexandria National Museum

pushes against that, hoping to both educate and inspire visitors by narrating the history of the people of Alexandria through the Pharaonic, Roman, Coptic, and Islamic eras.

For Feminists

While you could visit the Valley of the Kings, why not instead visit the Valley of the Queens? This archeological mecca, which ancient Egyptians called “the place of beauty,” is the resting place of over thirty queens. We do not know why these women were buried here, but we do know this gorgeous area was revered. Also, make a stop at the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. This dynamic woman was elevated to the position of God’s Wife of Amun, the highest honor a woman could attain in Egypt after the position of queen. She also became her son’s regent after her husband’s death; then, after seven years as regent, she crowned herself pharaoh of Egypt. Her highly

successful reign was marked by prosperity and peace as she managed successful trade, a booming economy, and her many public works projects.

For Adventurers

If you need a break from sightseeing, Egypt offers plenty of other adventures. Consider taking a camel ride, whether that be for a quick Instagram-worthy picture or for a trek through the countryside on the west bank of the Nile. If camels aren’t your thing, you can take a hot air balloon ride in Luxor to get a unique view of the city and the Nile Valley. If you’re looking for even more relaxation, take one of the many Nile cruises available to tourists.

Despite the terrible effects of the war, Egypt is still an attractive destination, full of history and culture. Whether you go to Egypt to admire its architectural marvels or to cruise across the Nile, it offers a well-preserved narrative. This narrative relays religious miracles, technological advances, progressive outlooks, and a history of defiance and resilience. So no matter your interests, Egypt offers an ideal getaway.

—Alexandra Palmer Source: www.wsj.com

Catch the Classics Touring Europe’s Major Art

uropean countries house some of the world’s most famous pieces of art and recognizable architectural triumphs. Millions of tourists visit the continent each year to personally witness these masterpieces, but it can be overwhelming to decide which cities to prioritize and what to visit when you’re there. While there are many ways to see the major art centers of Europe, the following path allows visitors to see the continent’s masterpieces while limiting the amount of travel from place to place. However, if you need to adjust your schedule, every location on this list is only a short flight or train ride away from the others, so it’s easy check everything from Rembrandt to da Vinci off your list.

Sources:

Barcelona

Your time in Spain should be spent seeing Gaudi’s amazing architectural vision demonstrated in the Sagrada Familia, a cathedral for which construction began in 1882 and is still ongoing. For more Gaudi architecture, you should visit Park Güell and Casa Milà. Barcelona also has a Picasso museum with more than 3,500 paintings, including works from his Blue Period, which you should make sure to visit during your time in the city. The Catalunya, full of Roman murals, and the Fundació Suñol, a collection that displays one hundred pieces from the likes of Picasso and Warhol in style- or color-based exhibitions, are both important stops on your tour of Barcelona art.

Rome

When in Rome, you should check out the restored Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain. This city represents the most powerful empire that has ever existed in Western history, and there is plenty to see and experience here. You can see Michelangelo’s Moses or frescoes from Raphael around the city. If you stop by the Contarelli Chapel, you will even be able to see three of Caravaggio’s St. Matthew paintings. Also, if you want to blend in with the Italians, take a Vespa tour of the city. During your stay, you should make sure to visit Vatican City to see St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. Raphael’s The School of Athens is also there. These stops are unparalleled in the art world.

www.theculturetrip.com, www.fodors.com, www.travelsupermarket.com, www.iamsterdam.com, www.thebesttravelplaces.com, and www.timeout.com

Florence

Florence is the home of the Medicis and the city that birthed the Renaissance. Michaelangelo’s David is Florence’s main attraction, but you can also see famous artwork from Botticelli (such as the Birth of Venus and Primavera) and Caravaggio at the Galleria degli Uffizi. Here, you can walk streets that have remained the same for nearly a millennium. You can also stop by the Duomo of Florence, Brunelleschi’s red-roofed masterpiece. Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise bronze doors are also a must-see during your time in Florence. Besides early Renaissance works, the city also offers a large contemporary art scene, allowing all types of art lovers to find something in the city worth visiting.

Vienna

Vienna is known for its musical influence, so a trip to the Vienna Opera House is strongly encouraged during your stay. The city also has a strong revolutionary art presence and more than one hundred museums, including the Kunsthalle Wien, which contains offerings from Pollock and Kandinsky. At the Kunsthistorisches Museum you can find Rembrandt’s Self Portrait and paintings from Titian, Tintoretto, and Vermeer. While in Austria, take a side trip to Salzburg, which is a twoand-a-half-hour train ride away and is known as the “Florence of the North.” You can celebrate Mozart and see some of the locations used in The Sound of Music while there.

Berlin

The most important thing to see during your time in Berlin is the Wall, which demonstrates how far the country has come to reunify, and now features contributions from more than one hundred German artists. The Brandenburg Gate, a monument built in the 1700s, and the Reichstag, Germany’s parliament building, are other famous spots for tourists to visit. The Gemaldegalerie, a classical art museum, holds famous works from Caravaggio and Rubens, as well as other painters from the thirteenth to eighteenth centuries. Berlin also has an extensive contemporary art scene. It is known for avant-garde galleries, which even offer live painting shows.

Amsterdam

More than forty Rembrandts are housed at the Rijksmuseum, including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch, so this museum should be your first stop in Amsterdam. Around the block, you can see more than seven hundred Van Goghs at the Van Gogh Museum, including his lesser-known Japanese prints. Amsterdam also has a large photography museum, FOAM, if you’re interested in different types of art. While in the city, you should also check out Amsterdam’s growing design scene, go to the EYE Film Institute, and visit the Anne Frank House. The city has more than 800,000 bicycles (it’s the most cycle-friendly city in the world!), so you can take in some fresh air while exploring.

Paris

You can’t visit Europe without passing through the City of Light. The Louvre is one of Paris’s major attractions. Here you can see da Vinci’s Mona Lisa for yourself, one of the most iconic paintings in the world. It also houses the “Winged Victory” statue, Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, and van Gogh’s Starry Night. You should see the Eiffel Tower, or even go to the top if you have time. Versailles, the home of the Sun King, Louis XIV, is a fortyminute train ride away and is worth including in your schedule while in France. The extensive gardens, iconic hall of mirrors, and large array of artwork found here will leave you in awe.

London

London is the most visited city in Europe and is the perfect place to end your trip. The city offers many free museums, from the British Museum, which holds the Rosetta Stone and showcases art from throughout world history, to the Tate Modern, where you can see classic art from Turner and Picasso. If you visit the National Gallery, you can see classic pieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Monet. You can visit Shakespeare’s Globe and experience a play in a faithful replica of the Bard’s original theater. You should also visit the Tower of London, the medieval castle, or you can witness the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.

—Maryn Turley

Features “Don’t be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.” —Rumi

StolenArt I

n 1911, three men slipped out of the Louvre Museum in Paris with the Mona Lisa tucked under one of their arms. This theft turned a lesserknown da Vinci painting into an overnight sensation—Mona Lisa’s

(Tony Cheng)

coy smile only added to her mystique. While this, the world’s most famous art theft, was straightforward, in reality, “stolen art” involves a great deal more. Most forms of art theft revolve around stories of the conqueror and the conquered.

Sometimes, stolen art adorns the wall of a world-famous museum, complete with a plaque that reduces the entire history of the people the piece was taken from down to a three-sentence informational blurb. The theft and destruction of

cultural artifacts can be traced throughout history. Beyond the toll on pieces themselves, such acts are destructive to a nation’s cultural heritage. No story captures the complicated political, social, and legal implications of cultural art theft better than that of the Parthenon Marbles.

Art Theft and the Acropolis

If there is one thing the United Kingdom is known for—apart from the queen’s corgis—it is the country’s long, dark history of conquest and human rights violations. The UK didn’t only take over lands and people, it also staked its claims on the beloved art from those

civilizations. This was the case from 1801 to 1812 when the Parthenon Marbles (often called the Elgin Marbles) were stolen from the Acropolis, in Athens, and shipped to the UK.

Controversial Acquisition

The Parthenon, the crowning jewel of Athenian Acropolis, has a tumultuous history of its own. The building was originally constructed in the fifth century BC as a temple to the city’s patron goddess, Athena. The Athenians used the Acropolis as a fortress in a number of wars between neighboring Greek city-states as well as against foreign invaders. The two-thousand-yearold building was later used as a church, a mosque, and, eventually, a gunpowder magazine before a 1687 explosion blew off the roof and the temple fell into disrepair. At that time, Greece was ruled by the Ottoman Empire, which put little stock in Greek national heritage. It was in this period that Lord Elgin, the British Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, made his bid for the Parthenon Marbles. He received an ambiguously worded letter of authorization from the Ottoman sultan that gave him permission to study the site. In this letter, the sultan also instructed that “when they wish to take away some pieces of stone with old inscriptions and figures, no opposition [should] be made.” This document became Elgin’s proof of permission to take the Marbles, and to this day, the British Museum uses the letter as proof that Elgin took them legally.

Within a decade, Elgin removed nearly fifty percent of the remaining pediments, metopes, and friezes from the ancient temple and shipped them back to England. After holding them in a private collection for much of his life, he eventually sold them to the British Museum.

The Arguments

The British Museum Trustees argue that the Marbles are their legal property because they purchased them from Lord Elgin’s personal collection in the 1800s. They further claim that Lord Elgin did the Greek people a service by preserving the Marbles: in the years before the ambassador’s involvement with the Parthenon Marbles, the building was plundered extensively. The 1687 explosion serves as further evidence that the Marbles were not safe on the Acropolis and that they would not have been preserved in the decades that followed because of the persisting political instability in the region. In contrast, the Greeks argue that the Ottomans, as a conquering force, had no legal right to give away the Marbles—if that is, in fact, what the sultan even intended in his letter. This means that when Elgin took the Marbles, he was committing theft and that theft should be rectified by the British government. The Greeks also argue that during the supposed “rescue” of the marbles, Lord Elgin’s team damaged the artifacts. This argument discredits the British stance that the Marbles were safer in Elgin’s hands. Perhaps the most compelling arguments proposed by either side

concern the context in which the artifacts are displayed. The British Museum tells the story of the development of civilization. The British argue that the Marbles are best understood in the context of the larger human story. So in the UK, the Marbles are housed alongside other major artistic and historical artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone, the death mask of Sutton Hoo, and ancient Assyrian lamassu. After the Greeks finished the Acropolis Museum in 2009, Greece argued that the Parthenon Marbles should be reunified in the museum a mere three hundred meters away from their original location. The special exhibition space inside the Acropolis Museum, designed with glass walls and display platforms in the exact proportions of the original Parthenon, allows visitors to view the artifacts in their original context. Since they are Greek artifacts and a vital part of the Athenian story, the Greek argument for reunification is a more substantive claim for the Marbles.

The Debate Today

In 2016, Greece brought the case of the Parthenon Marbles before the European Court of Human Rights—the first legal bid by the Greek government to return the Marbles to Greece. However, the case was ruled to be outside the jurisdiction of the court because the alleged theft happened so long ago. Despite the 200-year absence of the Parthenon Marbles, the Greeks are still hopeful about their return. Many British citizens also

believe the Marbles should return to Greece. Prominent among this group is British Minority Leader Jeremy Corbyn, who said to a Greek newspaper that “As with anything stolen or taken from occupied or colonial possession— including artefacts looted from other countries in the past—we should be engaged in constructive talks with the Greek government about returning the sculptures.” Pro-restitution sources insist that the majority of the UK population agree with Corbyn that the Marbles should return to Greece. Even so, the board of trustees for the British Museum stand firm against the tide of public opinion. In 2014, they refused an offer to resolve the issue with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a mediating body. The case of the Parthenon Marbles may appear to be an isolated controversy between the UK and Greece, but it represents a larger piece of British history and the British identity. The United Kingdom holds the largest collection of aboriginal artifacts outside the continent of Australia, which were stolen during colonial occupation. They also retain priceless pieces from their occupations of Asia and the Middle East. If they decide to give in to Greek demands, there is no telling what would become of the British Museum.

Stolen Art Elsewhere

It is important to note that art theft is not an issue of centuries past. Artifacts disappear without

a trace all the time, especially in conflict zones. One of the largest instances of art theft in living memory was perpetrated by the Nazis, who confiscated twenty percent of European art in the 1930s and 1940s. “Degenerate art,” which included works by Picasso, Matisse, Monet, and countless others was looted from museums and private collections. While much of the art was recovered after the Allied victory in WWII, some pieces were destroyed or are still missing. A new cache of lost pieces was recovered from a Munich apartment as recently as 2011. In a 1954 convention, UNESCO established regulations for the protection of “cultural

(Ed Webster)

property.” The agreement condemns the damage of artifacts and historic sites because “any damage to cultural property, irrespective of the people it belongs to, is a damage to the cultural heritage of all humanity, because every people contributes to the world’s culture.” Under today’s international law, Lord Elgin’s actions would not have been permitted by the UK, yet war-torn nations like Syria cannot ensure the same protections for their cultural property that European nations can afford. ISIS has a well-documented history of stealing artifacts and selling them to support their military efforts. These “blood antiquities” present a constant challenge for UNESCO. In addition to selling

artifacts, the Islamic State perpetrated an act of terror directly against cultural property when they blew up sites in Palmyra, Syria, in 2015. The connection between art and cultural identity is so strong that it presents a threat to fundamentalist terror organizations. Pieces destroyed by Nazis and ISIS cannot be recovered; they are lost forever in heinous acts of cultural vandalism. The term Elganism now means “the taking of cultural treasures, often from one country to another.” Lord Elgin’s legacy is not one of artistic research but one of theft and destruction. Even though the Parthenon Marbles remain intact, they are separated by over two thousand miles from their

home. The fight for the Marbles is ongoing, but protections for cultural heritage have never been stronger, and they will continue to strengthen as more people learn the dark reality of stolen art.

—Eleanor Lewis

Dark Tours haunted places around the world

eople love the thrill of being scared “half to death.” There are about 7,000 haunted houses throughout the United States, all trying to outdo each other. Whether it’s the thrill of being scared or hearing the history of a haunting, people come flocking to these sites. In this article, we did a roundup of the most haunted places in the world, jumping from the US to Europe, Asia, and Australia.

United States Salem, Massachusetts During the witch trials of the 1690s, a group of young girls claimed to be possessed by the devil. The girls’ accusations led to many deaths at the gallows. One of the most notable victims was eighty-year-old Giles Corey. Corey was accused of being a warlock after publicly questioning the girls’ motives. In September 1692, after spending months in prison and refusing to stand trial, Corey was stripped naked and the townspeople piled stones on him until he was gradually crushed to death. It is said that his ghost still roams Salem.

Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania This prison opened in 1829 and became the first in the US to use solitary confinement. Prisoners stayed in stony cells with basically no human contact. Those who supported solitary confinement felt solitude would help rehabilitate prisoners. However, critics thought it incited emotional pain that was close to physical torture. It’s said

that ghosts of the inmates took over the prison when the penitentiary closed in 1977.

The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado This creepy hotel was the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. A Massachusetts couple, F.O. and Flora Stanley, opened this hotel and reportedly never left. According to the staff, Mrs. Stanley can be heard playing the piano in the music room at night and Mr. Stanley can be glimpsed in photographs. Paranormal experts call the Stanley Hotel one of the nation’s most active ghost sites.

The LaLaurie Mansion, New Orleans, Louisiana Madame Marie Delphine LaLaruie was a well-known socialite in New Orleans. However, when the mansion caught fire in 1834, police discovered the bodies of several horribly mutilated slaves in the attic. When the public heard of the incident, they ran LaLaurie out of town. Soon after LaLaurie left New Orleans, police claimed to hear the phantom screams of her victims spilling from the house.

Europe Tower of London, London, England The history of the tower of London spans 900 years, and is full of torture and beheadings. One of its most famous ghosts, Anne Boleyn, a wife of King Henry VIII, was beheaded in 1536, and her headless ghost can be seen roaming the tower. There have also been appearances of the “White Lady” standing in the window of the White Tower.

The Stanley Hotel (www.stanleyhotel.com)

Poveglia, Venice, Italy Although this island was inhabited as early as 421, it was abandoned in the fourteenth century when the Bubonic Plague hit. In 1630, Poveglia became a quarantine for Venetians. The island’s hospital was used as a mental asylum until the 1800s and as a geriatric center until 1975. Today, the island is completely abandoned, and Venetians refuse to set foot on the it because they believe that the ghosts of the victims roam there.

The Catacombs, Paris, France The Catacombs of Paris are one of the most haunted places in the world, and are considered one of its largest graves. The underground labyrinth is home to the remains of six million people. Visitors to the catacombs have been reported as lost and their remains have been found inside later. Today, visitors report seeing apparitions, hearing voices from the walls, and being touched by phantom hands.

Bran Castle, Bran, Romania Many know this castle as the one that inspired the story Count Dracula. The clouded mystery of

this fortress draws hordes of tourists every year. The ghosts of those who died inside the castle’s walls are said to roam the halls, and villagers have reported hearing people wailing late at night.

beheadings at this site, which terrorized locals. Today, the museum is a popular tourist spot where locals and guards have witnessed apparitions of soldiers roaming the premises.

Asia

Changi Beach, Singapore

Clark Hospital, Philippines Previously a US Army hospital during World War II, this was the location of many brutal deaths. It also served as an asylum for injured and dying American soldiers at the peak of World War II and during the Vietnam War. It’s said to have the highest number of testimonials about hauntings and ghost sightings of any location. Paranormal activity at the hospital reported by visitors and guards includes apparitions, screams, eerie voices, and mysterious footsteps.

Penang War Museum, Malaysia This war museum, often referred to as Ghost Hill, has a dark past. Built by the British, it was used to defend against the Japanese in the 1930s. During World War II, the Japanese military held

This beach is a popular spot for tourists, but locals swear this is a haunted site. The beach was a popular execution location for the Japanese during the Sook Ching, a massacre in World War II. Many innocent Chinese were tortured, beheaded, and killed here because they were suspected to be involved in anti-Japanese activities. It’s said that the ghosts of the people executed roam the beach, and locals have heard cries, screams, and have seen bloody marks on the sand.

Gonjiam Psychiatric Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea This abandoned hospital is famed to be one of the most haunted places in South Korea. It was a fully functioning asylum until 1995, when patients started mysteriously dying and the government ordered the facility to be shut down. People have claimed to have

seen apparitions and heard voices there over the years. The grounds are closed to the public, but people break in every year for a spook.

Australia Ararat Lunatic Asylum, Victoria Built in 1860 when the government decided it needed a place to keep Victoria’s “lunatics,” this hospital has housed over 1000 people at any given time. In its 130-year history, 13,000 people died in this asylum, which is a reason why this is one of the most haunted places in Australia. Locals say they have felt the touch of cold hands and have heard strange screams around the property. A tenant of the asylum, Old Margaret, was tossed out when the asylum closed, but she is still seen wandering the halls.

Monte Cristo Homestead, New South Wales Monte Cristo Homestead is located 470 kilometers outside of Sydney and is considered Australia’s most haunted private residence. Ten ghostlike disturbances have occurred here. Visitors have reported strange lights, voices, and full-body apparitions; others have

felt unwelcomed and were unable to walk up the stairs.

Fremantle Arts Centre, Western Australia Seen as one of the most haunted places in the Southern Hemisphere, the site was opened in 1864 and is known as the Fremantle Lunatic Asylum. This six-acre property originally housed people who were criminally insane, but it became a place for anyone suffering from social problems, drug addictions, alcoholism, or sunstroke. In 1900, one of the residents was murdered. One legend says that a woman, whose redheaded daughter was abducted, was admitted into the asylum when she couldn’t cope with her loss. Now, it’s claimed that her ghost is drawn to redheads, and red-headed visitors often feel their hair being pulled.

station reported that at least fifty ghosts roam the property, and visitors have said they’re often been pushed by unexplained forces. Haunts are not limited by region, every community and every place has its own dark secrets. These secrets are what make each place unique and what entice people to seek them out. This world tour of the best haunts is something to put on your to-do list.

—Hayden Wise Sources:

www.nationalgeographic.com, worldstrides. com, www.rojakdaily.com, and www.optus. com.au

Q Station, New South Wales The “Quarantine Station,” renamed “Q Station,” was built in Manly, Sydney, during the 1830s to protect the public from the diseases coming in on migrant ships. Of the 26,000 people who stayed on that site, 600 died at the station before it closed in the 1980s. A psychic medium who recently visited the

Changi Beach Park (www.matraveldilemma.wordpress.com)

Sacred City SHARING THE

erusalem is a wonder. When the Islamic Call to Prayer sounds at midday, Jews can be found praying at the Western Wall. Above the Wall is the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque where Muslims gather to worship, and beyond that is the stunning Mount of Olives, with a cemetery that has been important to Jewish tradition for 3,000 years. Christians on that same mountain kneel at pews and worship in churches built by Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Russian Orthodox, and Franciscan denominations, among others. Back in the Old City, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre stands just across from the Mosque of Omar, and minarets and crosses, as well as Israeli flags sporting the Star of David, dot the rooftops. The city is divided to give each faith space to worship, but with so much history and sacred commemoration in one place, there are many locations where different religious sites are just a few feet apart. To see so many different manifestations of faith in Jerusalem is astonishing. Unfortunately, the city has been a place of conflict for centuries. The religious groups all believe they have the greatest claim to the city because of their own holy places, and members of minority groups throughout history have often been unable to access their own places of worship. Conflicts have endangered the holy sites of all three Abrahamic religions, and now places such as the Old City of Jerusalem and its walls have been included on the UNESCO List of World Heritage in Danger.

The Hurva Synagogue (Lilach Daniel)

Judaism

The Jewish faith is prominently centered in Jerusalem. With the rising emergence of the State of Israel, Jerusalem has become a place to celebrate Judaism and remember how the city was anciently the home of the Jews, like in the days of King David. This celebration of heritage was not always so prominent in the Holy City. In fact, most of the Jews currently living in and around Jerusalem have ancestors who came to live there during an Aliyah (a period of immigration to Israel) within the last one hundred years. Jerusalem was declared international territory, but it seems to be largely under Jewish dominion now that there are more Jews than Arabs living in the city. Through this recent Jewish influence, the city has been reborn to reflect more pride for Jewish culture. Before the wave of Jewish immigration in the 1900s, the city was under Arab rule. As the British

Mandate and Balfour Declaration helped more Jews immigrate to Jerusalem, tensions mounted. In 1948, war broke out to determine who would control the country, and the war put Jewish holy sites and other sacred locations at risk. The Hurva Synagogue, a grand and beautiful place of worship, was specifically targeted and destroyed. Following this war, the Western Wall, now viewed as the most

sacred site in Judaism, became completely inaccessible to Jewish worshippers because the Arabs controlled that part of the city. The Western Wall is also a reminder of an earlier conflict, because many believe it was the perimeter of the Second Temple that was destroyed. Therefore, many Jewish rituals and traditions point to Jerusalem and the razed temples. There the Jewish people remember their forefathers, the suffering of years in exile, and the destruction to the city they love. Today, Jews find joy in returning to Jerusalem. They explore the City of David and learn about ancient Jewish people in archaeological excavations. They visit the rebuilt Hurva Synagogue and leave written prayers in the cracks of the Western Wall, always remembering to step away backwards, out of respect. In the synagogues, boys with long sidelocks wearing tefillin for the first time make bowing motions with men in prayer shawls or hats. These people care deeply about what they have reclaimed in Jerusalem. Theirs is a proud

The Al-Aqsa Mosque compound (photorolandi)

The Dome of the Rock and Western Wall (Steven DuBois)

heritage, full of beautiful traditions. They deserve to stride with confidence and know that they won’t lose the holy sites they now have.

Islam

Every day in Jerusalem the Adhan, the Islamic Call to Prayer, echoes through the streets as it is broadcast from rooftop minarets. The melodic summons declares that “God is great,” and thousands of Muslims in the city heed the call. Some worshippers lay out prayer rugs in public, though

many prefer to pray in a mosque or in the privacy of their homes. The Call to Prayer is especially poignant in this city with the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest place in Islam. Muslims revere the mosque as the location of the prophet Muhammed’s sacred Night Journey, a revelatory experience in which he conversed with prophets in the heavens. On the same mountain as the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Dome of the Rock stands as a shrine built to honor the place of Abraham’s sacrifice. This is one of the oldest

Islamic religious sites, since it was built in the seventh century CE, and its golden top can be seen from every direction. Ornate Arabic script written on the monuments of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock call for reverence just as the Call to Prayer does. Even aspects of Islamic worship such as the Call to Prayer have been heatedly debated in the area, because recent laws have been considered that would suppress or prohibit the use of the loudspeakers at times when the Call to Prayer would be broadcast. Furthermore,

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre (Jorge LĂĄscar)

The Edicule surrounding the tomb of Christ (Alexa Benavides)

the Islamic, population that is currently a minority compared to the Jewish population, finds that its access to religious sites, such as the Al-Aqsa Mosque, may be threatened. Houses that once sheltered Muslim families just below the sacred Al-Aqsa site were destroyed to make way for the Jewish square that now allows for worship at the Western Wall. And even now the Kotel tunnel excavation that further explores the wall threatens existing structures in the Muslim quarter above the tunnel. Many have been forced to relocate and now live farther away from their holy sites. Those traveling to Jerusalem from areas outside of Israeli control are subject to border patrol, which can be uncomfortable, demeaning, and sometimes fruitless. This

is a difficult problem for many Muslims, especially at Ramadan when everyone wants to visit Jerusalem as part of the observance associated with that time of year. Many are not allowed to enter because of age restrictions and other stipulations imposed by the State of Israel. These regulations keep Muslims from entering the cityÂand were designed to protect Jerusalem from Palestinian attacks. Muslim worship faces another problem because part of the Christian Via Dolorosa, a street that is said to be the path Jesus walked to the cross on his last day of life, goes through the Muslim Quarter. On Good Friday every year, Christians pack the street while Muslims try to squeeze through to a place where they can worship. The way that Muslims worship

by prostrating themselves before Allah in humble prayer is a remarkable thing, and the Dome of the Rock shines for all to see as a reminder of what beauty Muslims have added to the city. The Islamic heritage is inspiring and important, and Muslims deserve to have their place in the city to access their beloved mosques and holy sites.

Christianity

Just as Jerusalem is venerated by Jews and Muslims, it is also one of the holiest places for Christians. Christians view Jerusalem as the site where Jesus Christ died and was resurrected. For them it is beautiful to remember Christ’s sacrifice and think of the miracles and teachings of the Bible that occurred in Jerusalem. At times, a processional of priests walks down the streets, swinging incense or clanging staffs against the cobblestones as they pass. Franciscan friars study Bibles with care, each wearing the telltale dark habit and a knotted cord at his waistline, which represents his vows to God. Christians have also struggled to maintain fair access to their holy sites. On Palm Sunday, a day that Christians celebrate by walking the path that Jesus trod to enter Jerusalem, Christians are forced to walk a shorter distance than they traditionally have because they are not allowed to pass through a gate in the separation wall that marks the Palestinian border. This gate has remained closed because of the conflict between Israel and Palestine. Palestinian and Armenian Christians also struggle with border

control and documentation difficulties, along with territorial disputes. Long ago, crusaders were involved in the battles fought to control the city, and today Christians of some denominations have made it hard for other Christians to worship fairly. The different sects disagree over who should control which parts of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the most important sites in Christianity because it is believed to be the place where Jesus Christ died and was buried. There, pilgrims caress the Stone of Annointing, where it is said that Jesus’ body lay. They pray where they believe the cross that Jesus died on stood, and they line up in a circular room where they can see Jesus’ tomb. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a special place, but also one that is divided. To this day, a ladder left on a balcony of the church more than forty years ago remains perched there, because a “status quo” rule is enforced in the church and no one can move or alter anything that is in the territory of another Christian denomination. A Muslim family holds the key to the revered church to prevent different denominations from fighting over ownership of the site. Despite their disagreements, Christians strive to demonstrate values of kindness and charity. Their faith inspires many good traditions and principles as they try to follow the example of a man who taught about mercy and love for others. All Christians should have the right to remember Jesus Christ

and see this place where he lived and died.

Conclusion

The Arabic name for Jerusalem is Al-Quds, meaning “the Holy” or “the Holy Sanctuary,” and the Hebrew name for Jerusalem, yerushalaim, is related to the word “shalom,” meaning “peace.” Christians revere the city awaiting the return of Christ as the King of Peace. Peace and holiness should be considered together to create a safe and harmonious place for all who wish to worship in Jerusalem.

—Jerica Nicholls

outh Korea

An Introvert’s Escape

he evening has finally come, and you can go home. Ah, home—the safe haven for the introvert in all of us. You can relax, dispel the stress of a busy day, and cocoon yourself away with a snack and your favorite form of escapism. Some homebodies can build castles out of their collection of books. Some can quote every line of their favorite shows and know the theme songs by heart. Some find both their peace and exhilaration in video games, creative pursuits, or music that drowns out everything else. It could be anything, really. In the end, for a certain strain of people, the best place to be is where it is safe, comfortable, and usually shielded from social interaction. It’s a big world out there. If all the wonder of what’s out of your reach seems scary, it becomes all too easy to root up a documentary, travel blog, or compendium of professional photographs that can provide vicarious satisfaction for your desire to wander the world. After all, it’s easier to get anywhere—be it Egypt or the Amazon—through a book or a screen rather than making the venture in person. From this safe distance, you can travel without any risk of discomfort, danger, or costs. No matter how much this may appeal to you, it isn’t enough. A true experience of feelings and sights previously unknown has the power to change a life. No matter how good a documentary is, it just won’t cut it. You’ve got to get out there. There are many reasons why travel sounds as daunting as it does exciting. Anxiety, introversion, or a simple preference to stay home may play its part in this. But experiencing the world isn’t only for the adventurous! There is no standard for enjoying a trip, so don’t be afraid to personalize your experience and make it worthwhile to you when you do decide to travel. In many Western cultures, the outgoing, bold, and spontaneous are held up as the ideal type of person— often to the point that introversion and reservation are

cast in a negative light. If this has been your experience, reaching out into the world may bring you more peace than you may have expected. In many Asian cultures, an introverted or reserved personality is not only better understood but is also appreciated or even preferred. In these places, an introvert can live through new experiences without the discomfort and strain that may have kept travel from becoming a possibility before. Consider South Korea as a particularly suited destination for introverts to start seeing the world. Other than the sites brought to your attention by the 2018 Winter Olympics, you may not know what South Korea has to offer. An internet search may produce a “Top 20 Tourist Attractions in South Korea” article or a list of the most popular K-pop singles and Korean dramas. You may glimpse cities pulsing with life and light, beautiful beaches, and serene mountains. However, those few top internet hits aren’t everything. After all, as introverts well know, the little things can make just as much of an impression as the big ones, if you pause long enough to appreciate them.

Glimpse Everyday Life

In South Korea you can find your way around by train, subway, bus, and with your own two feet. There will be sights to take in no matter where you are. Too often the journey and the to-and-fro of traveling is ignored or found inconvenient, but during this time is when you can experience local culture on a day-to-day level. A trip isn’t only composed of destinations, but rather includes every step along the way. If you feel as though your trip will be a failure if you don’t take all the typical tourist pictures and complete all the check-list experiences, take a step back. Listen to the unfamiliar chatter. Get a little lost on purpose. Take in the smells. You’re there; that’s what matters. If it all feels like too much, compare the pavement beneath your feet to what’s back home. Each step is something new, and that is the point. Traveling offers a chance to see how other people live, a chance to expand your definition of humanity. Instead of booking a hotel, consider renting an apartment. The prices are comparable or potentially even cheaper. But more than that, imagine a life, a home,

somewhere unfamiliar. Take off your shoes at the door. Stand by the window—whether it’s humble or breath-taking, the view is yours to enjoy. Experiment with the stove; laugh at the layout of the bathroom; listen to the building and the people outside. You may find that your arrangements provide a typical Western bed, a futon, or, more traditionally, you might sleep on the floor. Even if where you stay isn’t documentary-worthy, you’ll find that you can enjoy it as much as you let yourself. On that note, if there’s one thing that all people love—and one thing that a documentary or a book will never be able to give you—it is the experience of eating authentic food. In South Korea, there are options that can make your meal a unique experience. You could try a Korean hot pot, which gives you not only a spread of delicious options and a bubbling pot of your own, but also the opportunity and freedom to mix and cook your food to get just the taste you want. Or, if barbecue sounds tempting, you can grill up thinly sliced pieces of meat or fresh shellfish right at your table and eat them with a variety of sauces and side dishes. But don’t despair if your travel plans keep you constantly on the go. You can (and should) take advantage of the delicious fare offered at food stalls and trucks on the streets and in the markets—they’re a tasty experience all on their own. It does not take much searching in Korean pop culture to discover that a popular activity for a night out in South Korea is karaoke. This isn’t the potentially terrifying experience of standing on a stage in front of a crowd trying to keep up with the words to a song. If you grab a small group of friends and find your way to the nearest karaoke bar, you can nab your own private room and sing your hearts out. When you aren’t up to sing, you can order some food or drinks, which are often delivered straight to your room. Or, if you’re too shy and think that even an intimate group for karaoke isn’t your thing, you can try a one-person room. If it sounds odd, consider that some karaoke bars in South Korea are designed for an individual experience, so you can sing whatever you want, as loud as you want. There’s no pressure. It’s just you and the music.

An Experience You Can’t Get Anywhere Else

A unique experience that may appeal especially to the introverted traveler is a visit to one of the many temples in South Korea. A tour of a traditional temple could spark cultural understanding and appreciation, but you can also make your trip a true escape by participating in a one- or two-day temple stay. Temple stays are available at many temples in South Korea, and the experience includes educational and traditional activities taught or led by the monks who live there. Embrace and appreciate your pensive and reserved side. Wear the temple’s simple cotton garb. Eat with the monks. Participate in meditation, prayers, and ceremonies. Sleep and rise with the sun. The beautiful and peaceful surroundings of the temple promise you a restful experience, perhaps even an enlightening one.

Step Out There

The reality is that travel is a personal experience. Perhaps you’ve never traveled. Perhaps you’ve had bad experiences before. A comfort zone can be such an easy place to stay, but don’t let travel scare you. While traveling alone, the culture, people, and sights you will see can open your mind and heart in ways that you couldn’t have expected. When you take your life out into the world, you may be surprised to find that it isn’t as intimidating as you feared.

—Laci Player

Collapsing Colonies How Declining Bee Populations Affect Humanity

hen is the last time you heard someone say they like bees? Probably never. That’s because they are disgusting. Their yellow and black exoskeletons induce fear, their stingers can kill people with allergies, and their wings buzz at annoyingly fast speeds. That being said, bees do have one slightly significant redeeming quality: they keep the human race alive. That’s right, bees—those annoying, pesky, devilish creatures that terrify you at your family barbeque—are responsible for pollinating the world’s food supplies. In fact, according to the United States Department of Agriculture, one out of every three mouthfuls of food we consume comes with the help of bee pollination. Not only is your survival in large part due to bees, but so are many of the things you enjoy while traveling. Think of the immaculate flower gardens you see around the world: Keukenhof, Netherlands;

Gardens of Versailles, France; or the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, New York. Without pollination from bees, they’d be gone. Think of the plants you enjoy when you go on nature hikes, whether it be in the Redwood Forest in California or at Machu Picchu in South America. Without pollination, they’d be gone, too. Think about the restaurants you visit when you travel— you wouldn’t be able to order anything on the menu without the help of bee pollination. And that’s why you should be concerned about the bee epidemic.

What is the bee epidemic?

When you hear the word “epidemic,” you likely think of mass hysteria, infectious diseases, and major crises affecting millions of people—not bees dying by the thousands. It’s probably the epidemic you’ve heard least about as well as the one you’ve cared least for. However, that doesn’t make it

any less pressing. In 2006, beekeepers began reporting severe declines in bee populations, which panicked agricultural departments across the globe. Researchers rushed to discover what was happening.

Why are bee populations declining?

Over the last decade, researchers had proposed many theories for this phenomenon. One of the most interesting theories is tied to cell phone use. At one point, researchers believed that cell phone usage was directly tied to bee population decline. They thought the waves that our phones both use and emit were confusing bees and throwing off their innate ability to find their colonies. Though original, this theory has been debunked and has not stuck amongst scientists researching the topic. As a result, more traditional ideas have taken its place.

Researchers found several factors that contribute to declining bee populations. On their website, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists new invasive mites, parasites, and pesticides as threats to bee populations. Other factors include changes to bees’ natural habitat and stresses placed on bees when they’re transported for pollination purposes. These threats all contribute to one overarching effect called Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD).

What is Colony Collapse Disorder?

According to the EPA’s website, CCD is “the phenomenon that occurs when the majority of worker bees in a colony disappear and leave behind a queen, plenty of food, and a few nurse bees to care for the remaining immature bees and the queen.” So what’s the big deal? Why should we care if worker bees leave

their colonies? The problem is that when they leave, they don’t come back. Without them, colonies do not have enough manpower to sustain themselves or protect larva from invaders, resulting in a colony collapse.

What has been done to save the bees?

The United States Department of Agriculture created a CCD Steering Committee dedicated to reversing the devastating effects of CCD. This committee, in turn, created the “Colony Collapse Disorder Action Plan.” This plan focuses on collecting data, analyzing samples from bee colonies, deriving hypotheses on why CCD is taking place, and implementing plans to ensure the safety and protection of bees’ natural habitat. Individuals working on the Colony Collapse Disorder Action Plan are specifically researching four possible causes of

CCD: invasive pests to bees, pesticides, new pathogens, and environmental stresses to bees’ natural habitat. The committee is concerned with helping bees survive all four of these threats, but it focuses more attention on pesticides. After discovering the damaging effects of pesticides on bee populations, the EPA implemented a policy last year that, according to their website, “protects bees from agricultural pesticide spray and dust applications while the bees are under contract to provide pollination services.” This means that when bees are brought in to pollinate certain areas or crops, farmers are not allowed to bring the bees within reach of harmful pesticides.

What can you do to help? The main game changers in this ordeal are people who actually work in the agricultural sector, like farmers. These individuals rely

heavily on pesticides that are necessary to protect their crops. However, there are bee-friendly pesticides that will minimize the bee epidemic. If you work in agriculture, please go to the EPA website to see how you can help prevent CCD. However, if you’re not a farmer, you can still help by simply not killing the bees! It’s a simple yet unnatural concept. Our natural reaction when seeing a bee is often to run away or to grab our weapon of choice and exert dominance over the insect. Don’t do that. Instead, try lowering your boot and replacing your death threat with a silent “thank you.” After all, their survival is tied to your own. Another option is to take up beekeeping. It may sound farfetched, but beekeepers play a significant role in nurturing the comeback of bees from CCD. Not only do beekeepers create safe environments to grow local bee populations, but they also play a role in the scientific research done by the USDA and EPA. In fact,

when scientists perform reserach, they often go to beekeepers and their colonies directly for samples and surveys.

Where are we now?

Luckily, honeybees are making a valiant comeback from CCD.The Washington Post published an article in August 2017 stating that the number of colonies in the United Sates rose from 2.8 million in 2016 to 2.89 million that year. An article published by Time in the same month reported that this increase is in part because we are beating CCD is leaving the bees alone. The article reported a twenty-seven percent decrease in CCD colony collapses from 2016 to 2017. While it is fortunate that bee populations are rising and CCD is falling, bee colonies still face dangers from pesticides, invasive pests, and environmental changes. Bees are not quite out of the woods yet in terms of completing their comeback from CCD, but

we can take comfort knowing that our food, flower beds, and overall livelihoods are in good shape with rising bee populations. With this growth in the bee population and increased pollination levels worldwide, traveling is much better. Restaurants can put food on your plate, flower gardens will actually have flowers, and the hikes you love to go on will actually have some enjoyable scenery. So put down the can of Raid, grab your bags, and get out there.

—K.C. Miller Sources:

www.ars.usda.gov, www.epa.gov, time. com, and www.washingtonpost.com

Culture “If we are to preserve culture we must continue to create it.” —Johan Huizinga

Unearthly places

hether it’s science fiction, fantasy, or even science fantasy, movies that take place off of this earth capture the imaginations of filmmakers and viewers alike. Fortunately, you don’t need a spaceship to experience the places in some of these movies. Natural landscapes across the world serve as stand-ins for otherworldly scenes in popular movies. So if you’ve ever wanted to travel to Mars or Middle-earth, you can

(Rennet Stowe)

have your own adventure by traveling to film locations that are “out-of-this-world.”

Vasquez Rocks, California

This natural rock formation located just north of Los Angeles is featured in many iconic movies and TV shows—from Power Rangers to Planet of the Apes. Also called “Kirk’s Rock,” this site has been used as a film location for many Star Trek episodes and movies since

its first appearance in the 1967 original series episode, “Arena,” where Captain Kirk famously fights the alien reptile, Gorn, on the rock formation. It has been used to represent various alien planets throughout the years. Star Trek fans most recently saw “Kirk’s Rock” in J.J. Abrams’s Star Trek (2009). Visitors of the Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park can hike the formation and relive some of their favorite Star Trek moments.

Redwood Forest, California

(Byron Hetrick)

The towering trees of the Redwood National Forest in Northern California are famously featured in Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983) as the filming location for the forest moon of Endor. Much of the movie was filmed in this forest, which has the tallest trees in the world. It is here that the movie’s iconic speeder chase scene was filmed. In order to create this chase scene, the cameraman slowly walked through the Redwood Forest, filming at three-fourths of a frame per second, which was sped up in post-production to create the illusion of Luke and Leia speeding through the beautiful trees.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

With its red sand and expansive landscapes, this Jordanian desert is reminiscent of the surface of Mars. The desert, spanning 278 miles, attracts rock climbers, campers, and stargazers from all across the world. It has also attracted filmmakers and has become the go-to location for movies like Red Planet (2000), Mission on Mars (2000), and The Last Days on Mars (2013). Most recently, Wadi Rum served as the surface of Mars in Matt Damon’s The Martian (2015). Visitors can camp in the desert or even stay in domes similar to the Mars habitations depicted in this movie. (Phil Norton)

Mt. Ngauruhoe, New Zealand

Every fan of The Lord of the Rings film trilogy knows that New Zealand is the place to go to personally experience those movies. The natural landscapes of New Zealand inspired Peter Jackson’s conception of Middle-earth, and there are film location sites all over the country that fans can visit. For example, Mount Ngauruhoe is an active volcano in Tongariro National Park that was used as Mount Doom for the films. Just like Frodo and Sam, visitors can hike to the base of the mountain, and more experienced hikers can even scale it. (Chris Stoelting)

Hāmākua Coast, Hawaii

Though most of James Cameron’s Avatar (2009) was created using CGI, some of the scenes on the planet of Pandora were filmed in Hawaii to create the rainforest-inspired scenery. James Cameron used the Hāmākua Coast on the northeast side of the Big Island for the live shots in the film and some of the establishing shots of the rainforests where the Na’vi live. Here, visitors can experience the same lush greenery, impressive waterfalls, and beautiful coastlines featured in the film.

—Hannah Murdock

(Sarowen)

Color C

in the Dark

averns around the world hide artwork that is both mysterious and haunting. The artists of these displays were people who lived thousands of years before any written record, and they painted echoes of a past full of now-extinct creatures and untold dangers. Some of these paintings are tens of thousands of years old. Though there are examples of this prehistoric art on every continent, a few caves are especially worth visiting.

Chauvet Cave in

southern France is one of the bestknown examples of ancient cave paintings. Cave bears, mammoths, and other creatures have decorated

the walls there for close to 30,000 years, making this one of the oldest-known displays of cave art in the world. Since the cavern itself is protected for preservation purposes, a large cave replica called the Pont dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arc Cavern was built to display copies of all the artwork so that people can come and view them. The expressive techniques show animals with repeating shapes intended to imply movement.

Sulawesi, Indonesia has cave

paintings that rival even the oldest known artwork in Europe. The discovery of these paintings made it clear that people were developing

art all over the world at about the same time, raising questions as to whether people were developing the arts individually in different places, or whether the arts were part of an older inherited tradition from a previous, shared location. Although some of the caverns that hold the oldest paintings in existence, including one of a handprint and one of the ancient pig-like babirusa, are closed to visitors, other parts of the caves can still be explored today with a guide.

Cueva de las Manos is famous for having a large number of the stenciled hand imprints that are so often present in works of ancient cave

(Xipe Totec39)

(Claude Valet)

art. Looking at these handprints and comparing them to many a preschooler’s painted handprint art project makes it seem like something within us has been trying to figure out our human identity for thousands of years. The handprints and other examples of artwork in the Argentine cave are younger than similar examples in Europe and Asia, but they are still close to a mind-boggling 10,000 years old. Visitors can take a guided tour or can approach the walls on their own to see an ancient picture of a guanaco or a flurry of stunning and colorful handprints.

Other notable cave paintings

can be found all over the world. La Cueva del Castillo in Spain has a red disk painted on a wall that has been dated to be one of the oldest paintings in existence. The Bhimbetka rock shelters in India contain paintings ranging from close to 30,000 years old to as recent as medieval times. Several of the paintings in the Santa Barbara region and Burro Flats Painted Cave of California reflect the tradition of cave painting from the Chumash people, and some of the

paintings were added as late as the nineteenth century. It’s humbling to gaze at the relics of the past. The people who left their handprints and memories on cave walls had no inkling of computers or airplanes; their artwork tells tales of a much different world. Should you ever get the chance to see this most ancient art, take time to admire the strength of our species and how far we’ve come to create cultures beyond what these artists could ever have dreamed of.

—Jerica Nicholls

(Lulu Chen)

Night Markets in Taipei I

n Taipei, snacking is almost a cultural celebration, and nowhere showcases that better than the city’s numerous night markets. For more than a century, every night around 5 p.m., hundreds of vendors flock to stalls lining both sides of the designated night market districts of Taipei. With the vendors come the customers—both native Taiwanese and tourists alike, crowded shoulder to shoulder, surrounded by a carnival

of noise and flavor. Everyone is hunting for a midnight snack. It’s not uncommon to wait in long lines for the most popular snack food stalls, made famous by word of mouth, Instagram posts, or food bloggers. All types of flavors can be found: salty, sweet, crunchy, savory, and stinky (yes, stinky). There is something for everyone. If you’re not enjoying the atmosphere of the night market you’re currently exploring, try going to a

different one a few miles away. Each night market has its own personality and assortment of specialties. You’ll find different foods, different stalls, and different attractions in each one that you visit. With over sixty-five night market districts in Taipei, you’re guaranteed a new adventure every time. Not sure where to start? Here’s a brief introduction to three of Taipei’s most popular night markets.

(Eduardo M.C.)

Shilin

Shilin is the most famous of Taipei’s night markets. It covers one of the largest geographical areas, and it is very crowded and noisy. Here, you can find plenty of typical Taiwanese favorites, such as bubble tea, mee sua (an oyster and vermicelli stew), oyster omelets, mango shaved ice, and the infamous “stinky tofu” (a bean curd made with blue cheese). The market does not lack culinary variety. Shilin also boasts its own underground, air-conditioned food court, where you can hide from the humid summer nights while still enjoying delicious snacks at one of the court’s 539 stalls. While most night markets close around midnight, vendors at Shilin are often open until 2 a.m., giving you plenty of time to explore the quirky souvenir shops around the area.

(LWYang)

Roahe Street

Raohe Street Night Market is one of the oldest and most traditional of the night markets. It covers a much smaller area than Shilin and is far less crowded. The market’s most sought-after specialty is the Fuzhou Shizu black pepper bun, which is served piping hot. Also check out the herbal pork ribs and soups. Besides the many food options, you can also find craft goods such as handmade bags or stationary here. If you need a break from the crowds, you can visit the beautiful Ciyou temple—dedicated to Matsu, the sea goddess—located at the end of the market. Feeling like a stroll? You can get to Raohe Street by taking the Rainbow Bridge, a bicycleand pedestrian-only walkway that spans the Keelung River, connecting Raohe Street to the nearby Xinming Road.

(M-louis)

Huaxi

The most controversial night market is definitely Huaxi. It's also known as Snake Alley Market, because of its unique food offering: snake meat. It would not be out of place to see a vendor with live snakes on display here. Recently, however, animal rights activists have been pushing for Snake Alley to lose some of the “snake” aspect associated with it, and, in early 2018, the last stall that exclusively sold snake meat closed. Now the vendors sell more common night market fares. While at Snake Alley, be sure to visit the popular Tainan Tantsumien Seafood restaurant, or check out the Tainan Danzai Noodles shop, known for its artdeco style furnishings. Later, take a break from the food by relaxing at a traditional Chinese-style massage parlors located among the vendors.

—Elizabeth Edwards

an Francisco is a city known for its diverse, experimental food. Perhaps this is why it was one of the first cities in the United States to join in on the food truck movement, which began in Los Angeles a decade ago and is still going strong today. Though food trucks are wildly popular today, the current food truck scene in San Francisco has changed a lot since the craze first began. Today, there is a much larger variety of food trucks and many more of them. Because of increased city restrictions, most food trucks have more permanent locations in food truck parks such as SoMa, Spark Social, or Duboce

Truck Stop rather than roaming the city as they used to. At these parks, you’ll find a wide variety of interesting, innovative, and exciting street food. Next time you’re in San Francisco, you should try visiting a food truck park and hunting down one of these delicious restaurants on wheels.

Señor Sisig

This food truck, which serves up Filipino fusion-style food, is one of the most popular trucks in San Francisco. Frequently listed as the best truck in the city, Señor Sisig is famous for its California Burrito, a burrito stuffed with Filipino-style pork, cheese, sour

cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and french fries.

Lobsta Truck

The founders of this truck pride themselves on bringing authentic, New England-style lobster rolls to California. Besides this specialty, they serve fresh crab rolls, clam chowder, and lobster bisque. So, if you’re craving a taste of New England, just look for the bright red truck emblazoned with a giant lobster.

The Chairman

The San Francisco Magazine voted for and proclaimed The

TrucksBay by the

Chairman as the best food truck, and it’s easy to see why: they serve a variety of fresh baos influenced by Asian street food. Try the CocaCola braised pork in a steamed bun and you’ll see why it is one of the most talked-about food trucks in the Bay Area.

Curry Up Now

(Kim Smith)

Serving up Indian street food, this truck reinvents traditional meals in fresh and exciting ways. From tikka masala burritos to deconstructed samosas, Curry Up Now takes the signature flavors of India to new places.

Chomp Station

This unique food truck only serves dishes with tri-tip steak. Taste their famous tri-tip sandwich or salad, or try something more adventurous like their Tater Tips, tater tots mixed with hoisin sauce, cilantro, chimichurri, fried shallots, and of course tri-tip steak.

—Hannah Murdock

(Above: Daniel C. Below: Joey Zanotti)

Hold the Gluten A

s someone who was diagnosed with celiac disease as an infant, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve lived my entire life on the lookout for good gluten-free recipes. Millions of people around the world have celiac disease, a condition that prevents us from being able to digest the proteins that make up gluten. Fortunately, the world has come a long way in gluten-free cuisine. However, sometimes the best recipes are the ones that have been passed down for generations and are naturally gluten-free. In fact, you can find classic and delicious glutenfree recipes in every culture. Here are some beloved recipes from around the world.

Galettes The French first began using buckwheat to make crepes in the twelfth century. It is just as popular and just as gluten-free today as it was back then.

Ingredients

1 cup milk 2 large eggs 1 tablespoon melted butter 1 cup buckwheat flour 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt 1/3 cup water

Instructions

1. Add milk, eggs, butter, buckwheat flour, and salt together in a large bowl and mix or blend until smooth. 2. Place a pan over medium-high heat and brush it with melted butter. 3. Pour just enough batter into the pan so that it thinly covers the surface when the pan is swirled. 4. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the edges of the crepe begin to curl up slightly and the crepe lifts easily from the pan. Use a spatula to flip the crepe. 5. Cook the second side for about 1 minute then transfer to a plate. 6. You can eat these crepes with any number of savory fillings, although they are often eaten for breakfast with eggs and bacon inside. Recipe adapted from foodiewithfamily.com.

Arepas

Pad Thai

Arepas

You can find Pad Thai on the menu in any Thai restaurant. Because the dish is always made with rice noodles, it is a perfect gluten-free dish.

Arepas are a traditional Venezuelan and Columbian bread. They are primarily made using corn and are perfect to use as bread for a sandwich.

Ingredients

8 ounces of rice noodles 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 clove garlic, minced 2 large eggs 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce* 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 1 medium lime) 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes 3 green onions, sliced 1/4 bunch fresh cilantro, leaves only, roughly chopped 1/4 cup chopped, unsalted peanuts

Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of water and add rice noodles. Cook the noodles until they are soft but not soggy. 2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs lightly with a fork. Pour them into a skillet and lightly scramble them. When the eggs are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside. 3. In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, fish sauce, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the scrambled eggs. Add the noodles and toss to coat in the sauce. 4. Sprinkle the green onions, cilantro, and peanuts over the noodles. Toss lightly to combine. Serve warm. *Be sure to check the ingredients to make sure that the soy sauce you’re buying is gluten-free!

2 cups warm water 1 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon shortening, butter flavored, melted 2 cups instant corn masa flour

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350° F. 2. Place water, salt, and shortening in a large bowl. Slowly add flour, mixing well. 3. Once most of the flour is added, start mixing the dough by hand until it is just combined. 4. Cover arepa dough with a moist towel and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. 5. Scoop out 1/2 cup of arepa dough, roll into a ball, and flatten into a 4–5 inch diameter and 1/2 inch thick circle. Repeat this step with the remaining dough. 6. Set a griddle to a medium-high heat and place 1 tablespoon of butter or shortening on it. Once the griddle is heated, add the arepas one by one. 7. Cook each arepa for 3–4 minutes or until it begins to brown. Flip the arepa and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes on the other side. 8. After all arepas have been seared on both sides, place them on a baking sheet and bake in preheated oven for 12–15 minutes. 9. Slice arepas in half and stuff with your favorite sandwich-type fillings. Recipe adapted from evolvingtables.com.

Recipe adapted from epicurious.com.

Brazilian Coconut Cookie Brazilian recipes often use coconut as a staple ingredient. These coconut cookies are no exception, and because they are made with coconut flour, they’re naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients

1 stick of butter, at room temperature 2 whole egg yolks 1 cup sugar 4 1/2 cups cornstarch 1 cup shredded coconut 3/4 cups coconut milk 1 teaspoon coconut extract 1 pinch salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350° F. 2. In a large bowl, cream butter with egg yolks and sugar. Set aside. 3. Combine the cornstarch with the shredded coconut. Alternate adding the coconut milk and

the cornstarch mix into the creamed mixture. Then add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of coconut extract. Mix well until dough is soft but not sticky. 4. Roll balls of dough and place them on a greased baking tray. 5. Bake for 35 minutes or until cookies feel tight when pressed in the center. 6. When ready, remove them from the oven and place them on a cooling rack. Recipe adapted from tastykitchen.com. All photographs purchased through shutterfly.com.

—Natalie Ann Davis

ECUADOR LINGUISTICS STUDY ABROAD

Quichua, Achuar, and Waorani Languages I JUNE - 20 JULY

Janis Nuckolls, program director | (801) 422-3448 | janis_nuckolls@byu.edu

Field Notes “Into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.” —John Muir

Inspiration

LIFE ABOVE

SURVIVAL OVER 26,000 FT.

David Roskelley, of Alpine, Utah, has done something few others on this planet have ever attemptedâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;he has climbed the Seven Summits, the highest mountain on each of the seven continents. The inspiration for such a feat came from his uncle who climbed Mount Everest. As a twelve-year-old boy, David was traveling through Wyoming with family friends from his hometown of Chicago. He remembers the first time he set eyes upon the Rockies; seeing them unlocked a desire in him to someday climb them. After coming to Utah to attend Brigham Young University, David began spending time climbing smaller mountains. After a few years, he reached a summit of significance for the first time in his life: Mount Timpanogos (11,753 feet), located in Utah.

Training and Preparation

With Mount Everest being the definitive challenge, David knew he had to begin his training and preparation early. Fortunately for him, Utah is the perfect state to train in because of the cold weather and the high altitude. His preparation included running in twenty-degree temperatures and at altitudes of up to 11,000 feet. David says you cannot train to only climb Mount Everest; you have to work your way up by training on the other mountains first.

David Roskelley (bottom), Stephen Pearson (top), and Thile Nuru (middle) climbing in the Khumbu icefall on the way to Camp 1 (David Roskelley)

Physical Challenges

As David climbed each additional mountain, he learned lessons that would help him on the next summit. David used Mount Rainier as a training climb for Denali. Rainier is often referred to as a “mini Denali” because it has the same crevasse and icefall hazards, just on a smaller scale. David says that as you climb each mountain, the experience brings a new level of confidence and sense of accomplishment. He became more comfortable as he tested his body at higher elevations and in colder temperatures. Once he successfully climbed 23,000 feet (on Aconcagua, Argentina), he knew his body could handle the stresses and pressures of higher elevations. Each mountain produces its own intense physical challenges that need to be respected. Some can be climbed in as little as a week, while Everest typically takes up to two months. High elevations demand that you acclimatize your body by climbing in what are called “rotations.” This means that you begin by climbing high and then sleeping low. For example, you would go to camp one, spend the night, and then return to base camp and rest for about three to four days before ascending again. After that, you would go to camp two, and do the same thing––return all the way back to base camp for a few days. Then you might repeat that again, slowly but surely adapting your body. This is the reason it takes so long to reach the summit of Everest. If you tried to ascend Everest straight from the bottom

to the top, without doing the rotations, you would die because your body wouldn’t be able to handle the differences in air pressure. Climbing Mount Everest, in particular, is extremely challenging on your body. Your blood will not flow normally because of the altitude, and your body will burn an unprecedented 30,000 to 40,000 calories in a twenty-four-hour period. David claims to have lost nearly twenty pounds of muscle mass on his Everest climb.

What do the climbers eat?

Climbers do not consume certain kinds of foods nor even certain amounts of calories. David explained that on most of the Mount Everest climb, he felt like he had the flu. He knew he had to eat, so he would consume anything set in front of him. On the lower mountain, he ate a lot of protein to help build muscle, but as he ascended, he found himself mostly wanting broth. Because dehydration is a big problem, he had to do all he could to keep his liquid intake high.

Local Climbing Guides

If you climb mountains in Europe, your guides will be professional climbers. This is not the case in places like Africa and Nepal. In these regions, it is the law that you must climb with a guide company. Many of these guides climb out of necessity. They come from lives of poverty, and many of them do this difficult work in order to create better lives for their children. David met one guide who climbs so that he can afford to send his two children to a private school. The guide’s children are learning English so that they can break the local cycle of poverty. Some guides do not even like climbing and do not have the expensive clothes and gear that their guests do. At the end of the climb, after paying the guides monetarily, David and some of the other climbers are known to open their duffel bags and give the guides most of their gear. It is their way of showing appreciation to the guides for the sacrifices they have made to help the climbers reach the top.

David Roskelley (left) and Stephen Pearson (right) on the summit of Everest (David Roskelley)

View of Mount Everest (Sagarmatha) from the summit of Kala Patthar with Tibetan prayer flags (David Roskelley)

Future Goals

David isn’t done climbing yet: he still has more goals to achieve. He is currently planning on climbing the Seven Volcanic Summits, which are the highest volcanos on each continent. He has already climbed four of the seven and plans to complete the rest within the next year. As far as he knows, if he can complete all seven volcano climbs, he will be the first American to have conquered the Seven Summits and the Seven Volcanic Summits. He also intends to travel to both poles. Once he has reached both of them, he will earn the coveted “Explorers Grand Slam.” This is given to people who climb the Seven Summits and reach both poles. Fewer than forty individuals worldwide have ever earned this distinction.

“No man is an island”

David Roskelley on the summit of Mount Everest with the United States and Alpine, Utah, flags (David Roskelley)

When David first presented his dream of extreme climbing to his wife, Lynda, her first reaction was, “Not while I am on this earth.” They had three small boys at the time, and Lynda needed David safely at home. After she began

to see his love for climbing at a smaller, local level, she thought, “Who am I to stop him from following his dreams? We’re a team.” Lynda feels strongly that David’s example shows all three of their boys that they can do whatever they put their minds to. And David is the first to say that this is not something he could have ever done without the support of his loving, courageous wife, Lynda.

Becoming a Better Person

David believes that his unique climbing experiences have made him a better husband, father, and son. He chooses climbing because it is difficult to do, and because he likes doing difficult things. He also likes setting a good example to others, especially to his three boys. He hopes that he will inspire each one of them to do difficult things in their lives, whatever their challenges may be.

—Amy Johnson

ELEVATIO N in feet

30,000

25,000

20,000

15,000

10,000

5,000

SEA LEVEL

Vesuvius’s FIRST VICTIM I

n AD 79, Herculaneum was a small seaside town. Fishermen coming home from their day’s labor on the water landed at the docks beside the beautiful, arched vaults of the city. Looking up, they would have seen their home. Unfortunately, Herculaneum was nestled at the foot of an active volcano. There was no time to prepare, only to run. The ground juddered. The sky burned. It must have looked like the end of the world. Remarkably, some of the inhabitants escaped, but not all were so fortunate. Hundreds perished before they could find safety; skeletons huddled together by the shore testify to this fact. The remains were preserved there for centuries.

Skip Pompeii, Try Herculaneum When you hear the word Vesuvius, the name of that infamous Italian volcano, you probably think of Pompeii. Not far away, however, lies its lesserknown counterpart: Herculaneum. This small town on the shore of the Tyrrhenian Sea lies beneath and alongside the modern city Ercolano. While you may not have heard of it, this city should rival Pompeii as a “must-see” place to visit on your bucket list. The sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum are comparable, but there are a couple of points to keep in mind. Herculaneum is smaller

than Pompeii, making it a manageable day trip. It is also significantly better preserved than Pompeii, and, as a result, offers a number of sights that can’t be found anywhere else. This extraordinary preservation is due to the unique effect the eruption had on Herculaneum. Unlike Pompeii, Herculaneum was buried under up to sixty feet of ash and rock. The rock protected statues, buildings, and many other features of the city. Even fragile and organic items like food, fabric, papyri scrolls, wooden furniture, and human skeletons survived. The city was protected from time and weather as well as from those who would steal or disturb the artifacts. Herculaneum was discovered much

later than Pompeii, and, after considerable excavation, it has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site. Visitors to Herculaneum often begin their tour with the arched vaults on the shore, where many citizens of the city sought protection during the eruption. Their bones still remain and were a significant find for archeologists. Traditionally, Romans of this time period cremated their dead, making these inhabitants of Herculaneum the first Roman skeletons discovered from the first century. Further into the city are shops, fountains, baths, and swimming pools, which are not only an architectural beauty in themselves but are also covered in incredibly preserved mosaics and frescoes. The city itself is like a museum,

allowing a unique glimpse into the lives of those who lived in Herculaneum, both the poor and the wealthy. One area worth noting is the Villa dei Papiri, one of the homes owned by Julius Caesar’s father-in-law.

Tips for Visitors

Herculaneum has smaller crowds than the better-known Pompeii. It is open all year with very few exceptions (like December 25 and January 1), but has different hours depending on the season. Be sure to check the website: www. rome.net/herculaneum. Tickets to enter the site vary from five-and-a-half to eleven pounds, depending on age and citizenship. You can also buy a combined ticket, which allows entry to Herculaneum, Pompeii, Oplontis,

Stabiae, and Antiquarium of Boscoreale for between ten and twenty pounds. Most visitors arrive at Herculaneum by train, though there are also places for parking. A train from Naples to Herculaneum will take two or three hours with prices that vary depending on the type of train. Maps and pamphlets are typically provided at Herculaneum for visitors, but to be safe you may want to download this information before you arrive—it would put a damper your trip if there aren’t any paper copies left on-site. Make a trip to Herculaneum and be ready for an incredible experience unlike any other. Take a step into the past and witness a piece of Italy you’ll never forget.

—Laci Player

Sugar Highway Taste Ohio’s Donut Trail

braham Hicks said, “If you’re not excited about it, it’s not the right path.” Well, here’s a path everyone should be excited about: the Ohio Donut Trail. Otherwise known as the Butler County Donut Trail, this eighty-mile tour—complete with a passport and free T-shirt—features tempting donut shops around the Cincinnati, Ohio, area. Even if you’ve made the trip before, you should consider making another pilgrimage: as of 2018, Butler County has added three more bakeries to the existing list of nine. While you may only care about the donuts, to experience the full deep-fried, sugar-dipped magic, make sure to snag a Donut Trail map and passport. (You can find these at the Butler County Visitor’s Bureau, at any of the bakeries on the route, or online.) As you visit each of the shops on the trail, have someone at the bakery stamp your passport. Once you’ve received a stamp at every shop, bring the passport back to the Visitors Bureau or send it in the mail for a free T-shirt. Not only is this T-shirt a reminder of a sweet gig, but wearing it gets you discounts at other shops in Butler County. Here’s where to go to drown yourself in delicious calories:

regulars and tourists say there is often a line out the shop doors, but it’s well worth the wait.

Ross Bakery Ross Bakery is known for some of the best glazed donuts—not just on the trail, but in the country. While some other stops may blow you away with specialty flavors, don’t forget to snag this yummy basic. Baker from Jupiter Donuts (Butler County Vistor’s Bureau)

Central Pastry Shop

The Donut House

Central Pastry Shop features more than just donuts; it is known for unique flavors in breads, cakes, and other pastries.

The Donut House gets up close and personal; you don’t have to settle for whatever has already been made. When you order, you can customize your donut by requesting one of five different fillings.

Milton’s Donuts Milton’s Donuts changed ownership in 2014. After forty-eight years of donut making, Dan and Beverly Milton sold the iconic store to Jay and Amy Byrne, but not until they had passed on all their trade secrets to the new owners.

Martin’s Donuts Martin’s Donuts goes for the bold. This bright pink shop houses some of the most surprising donut options: banana pudding and twisted sister are just some of the flavors available.

Stan the Donut Man Stan the Donut Man is up to par with the other shops on the donut trail. Stan’s also offers tours of the bakery, reported to be engaging for all ages.

Holtman’s Donuts Holtman’s Donuts has a sweet story: it was founded in 1960 by Charles Holtman to provide steady work for his father, Marvin Holtman. The shop was so successful the family opened several shops in the area.

Jupiter Coffee and Donuts Jupiter Coffee and Donuts boasts a modern twist. While they sell traditional donuts, they also serve up specialty donuts like their Red Storm Roll and Miami Maple Merger.

The Donut Spot The Donut Spot is a small shop famous for huge donuts. Both

Mimi’s Donuts and Bakery Mimi’s Donuts and Bakery is known for selling out fast. If you get there after 9:30 a.m., you are likely to be out of luck for a classic glazed. However, Mimi’s is one of the few shops on the donut trail that is open seven days a week.

Kelly’s Bakery Kelly’s Bakery is another delicious shop offering both traditional and novelty donuts. This is the place for you whether you’re looking for a classic blueberry cake donut or one topped with maple bacon.

Oxford Doughnut Shoppe The Oxford Doughnut Shoppe has been a staple in Oxford for more than fifty years. The current owner, Joshua Francis, prides himself on making donuts the oldfashioned, kettle-fried way. So if your current path doesn’t leave you on sugar high, you should definitely make a detour for this one. You’re in for a treat.

—Alexandra Palmer

Finding the Fjord O ne of the most beautiful roads in the world spans seventy-five miles and takes you from Te Anau to Milford Sound in New Zealand. This path, also known as State Highway 94, weaves through the Fiordland National Park in southwest New Zealand. As you drive along this winding road, you can take in the impressive natural landscapes of rain-forested mountains, towering waterfalls, and glassy lakes. Though

the drive only takes two hours, there are plenty of stops along the way that make this one of the most scenic and exciting highways in the world. A few minutes into your road trip, stop at the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a large system of water-filled caves near Te Anau Lake. Here, visitors can take a boat tour through the underground system to witness and explore the caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms living on the walls.

Further along in your journey, you’ll run into the stunning Mirror Lakes in the Eglinton Valley. Just a short walk from the side of the road, these lakes are famous for reflecting the blue sky and the surrounding Earl Mountains on a clear day. The lakes are also home to some rare water birds, such as the New Zealand Scaup or the Pāpango, which is New Zealand’s smallest duck. Near the end of your drive, you will pass through the historic

(Florian Rohart)

Homer Tunnel, a three-quartersof-a-mile-long tunnel carved out of the Darran Mountains. Construction first began on the tunnel in 1935 but was not completed until 1954. Before then, no road access to Milford Sound existed. There are no lights in this solid-rock tunnel, so be sure to turn on your headlights! Right after you exit the Homer Tunnel, you can take a short hike through the rainforest and over the footbridges that lead to the Chasm. Carved out by the Cleddau River, the Chasm is a fissure in the rocks where several waterfalls come through. This is one of the most popular stops along Milford Road

and is guaranteed to be an exciting final site before entering Milford Sound. Your journey on State Highway 94 ends as you descend into Milford Sound, a large fjord of water surrounded by towering mountains. Here, you can hike through the rainforests, search for penguins and dolphins, or take a boat trip across the lakes to witness stunning cliffs and waterfalls. One of the most popular natural sites in New Zealand, this fjord is the perfect end to your road trip.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Hannah Murdock

Insider “Jobs fill your pocket, but adventures fill your soul.” —Jamie Lyn Beatty

Best or Bust? How to Airbnb M

ichaela Scarrott was excited to spend a month with her friends in what was described on Airbnb as a “luxury apartment” located in Whangarei, New Zealand. There was only one problem—Michaela wasn’t looking at the apartment

on Airbnb, but was on a fake website posing as the housing marketplace instead. As a result, Michaela’s hopes of spending a fun-filled month with her friends in New Zealand were taken from her, as was her deposit of $4,800. From being duped to double charged, there are numerous

accounts of Airbnb customers having bad experiences. But there are even more stories of customers being pleased with the inexpensive and reliable options Airbnb has to offer. So what can you do to avoid all of the scams and make the best of your Airbnb experience?

1 Only pay using Airbnb’s website

Scammers continue to become more and more sophisticated, therefore it is essential that you verify you’re on the correct website when paying for the place you want to stay. Any payment link that redirects you to another website is most likely a scam, so make sure that you only make payments using Airbnb’s secure payment system.

2 Read all of the reviews This may sound like a lot of work, but reading the reviews is the most important part of choosing where to stay. Reviews are the only way potential guests can get a feel for who the host is and what the place is like, so take the time to read reviews. By identifying problems and complaints, you’ll have a greater chance of not being disappointed.

3 Review photos

Pictures can be deceiving but the owner of a well-kept apartment or house shouldn’t have any problems posting lots of photos of everything on the listing. If there are only a few photos or they are poor-quality, or if photos of certain rooms aren’t included on the listing, the owner might be trying to hide something. Look for listings with lots of photos from various angles and you won’t be surprised when you arrive.

4 Research the area

This can be as simple as using Google Street View to get a feeling for the location. A listing might describe the place for rent as being “downtown” or in a “safe neighborhood,” but by doing a little research of your own, you can know for sure.

5 Read through the entire listing

If you’re not careful, it’s easy to overlook house rules or hidden fees. Make sure you know the answers to these types of questions: Are pets allowed? Is there a cleaning fee? Are there local taxes? The more you know, the better. By taking more time to prepare for your vacation, you can ensure that you have a positive experience using Airbnb. A little extra effort and research can make all the difference between a relaxing holiday and a horrific night.

—Michael R. Morris Jr. Source: www.stuff.co.nz

Take a

Hike

(Ville Koivisto)

Packing for a long hike can be tricky. You don’t want to take a lot of unnecessary gear and overburden yourself, but you do want to have all of the essentials to make the experience as enjoyable as possible. Here are a few light and portable gadgets that can make a hike easy, safe, and comfortable without weighing down your pack.

Water Filter

A water filter is a safety must for any serious hiker. If you run out of water on the trail, a water filter will literally save your life. We recommend LifeStraw personal water filter systems. The LifeStraw is a long, thin “straw” that filters out 99.999 percent of water-borne bacteria, parasites, and microplastics. One straw can filter a thousand gallons of water, and it’s easy to clean. The best part is, it only weighs two ounces! If kneeling down to drink straight out of a stream isn’t your thing, try the new LifeStraw bottle as an alternative.

Campfire Stove

A long day of hiking really burns calories. After you pitch your tent, you’re going to want to fuel up on more than just trail mix and granola bars. With a campfire stove, you can eat from a huge variety of dehydrated backpacking meals. We recommend Jetboil cooking systems because they can boil a halfliter of water in as little as one hundred seconds, even faster than your kitchen stove back home. These stoves weigh only about thirteen ounces, and they’re designed to fit all the stove’s components into a matching cup. They offer several models and accessories, so you can travel light and eat well whether you’re hiking with a group or by yourself.

Eating Utensils

(popofatticus)

(patchattack)

Camping utensils can quickly get frustrating to use, pack, store, and clean. But they’re necessary for cooking a real meal out in the open. A better utensil can really improve your cookout. We recommend the Morsel Spork. The Morsel Spork replaces all of your old camping utensils. It’s designed to act as a spoon, fork, knife, and spatula all in one. It features a long design and a rubber edge, allowing it to easily scrape the insides of abnormal shapes such as dehydrated meal pouches or deep thermoses. Next time you hit the trail, pack these few extra gadgets in your pack and see what a difference they can make!

—Elizabeth Edwards

(Greg Hoggard)

Mint Condition D

uring a stressful day at work or school, you close your eyes for a second and let your mind wander, spending sweet leisure time in a happier place before being drawn back to reality. The vacation of your dreams shouldn’t be confined to a momentary haven for your overworked brain when instead it could be a thrilling reality. All it takes is a little willpower and planning. Vacations do cost a fair amount of money though, especially if you’re traveling far from home. Mint is a free money management and financial tracker app that can help you anticipate your vacation’s expenses and track your savings. Follow these six simple steps to start saving for your dream vacation with Mint:

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Step 1: Sign up for Mint. Go to www.mint.com or search for the app in your app store. It is free to create and use a Mint account, so just do it.

▶▶

Step 2: Add a new goal. After logging into your account, click on “Goals” on the banner at the top of the page, and then click on “Add a Goal.” Mint has a list of budgeting templates for a few of the most common financial goals. For your dream vacation, you could choose the “Take a Trip” template, or you could create a custom goal. Step 3: Set vacation details. If you choose the “Take a Trip” template, fill out a few fields that are specifically tailored to going on a vacation (e.g., the duration, number of travelers, and how much you would need for flights, hotels, food, activities, etc.). Step 4: Link a bank account. Mint does a great job with tracking your savings progress because it allows you to link bank accounts to your savings goal. Whenever you add money

to that bank account, you’re a little closer to reaching your dream. You can choose to open a new bank account or simply link one you already have. You can add or remove bank accounts at any time. ▶▶

Step 5: Create a monthly savings plan. You can set a specific amount of money aside in your monthly budget to go toward your dream vacation, and Mint will then estimate how long it will take for you to reach your goal based on your monthly contribution. Or, if you prefer, it can determine how much you should set aside in order to reach the goal by a certain date.

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Step 6: Save your goal. Now that you’ve hashed out the basic financial details of your dream vacation, click “Save Goal” and stick to the plan. All the sacrifice will be worth the spectacular memories you’re bound to make.

—Rebecca Timmons

A Storm Is Coming preparing for When Nature Hits

n 2018, Hurricane Florence tore through Virginia and the Carolinas, displacing 750,000 to 1 million inhabitants and pushing the death toll to seventeen people. The National Weather Center says hurricane season runs from June to November, but despite the long season, we are still seeing stories of people being unprepared for these disasters. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, the seventy-one reported wildfires that have hit the western states in 2018 have eaten up a total of 913,394 acres. Fires are more likely to happen in the summer and autumn months when the air is dry, resulting in evacuations when the fire is too much for local authorities to handle. When this happens, people often feel unprepared for what to grab if they need to leave quickly. Here are some easy tips to help you prepare for natural disasters in your area. The number one item to have in your emergency storage is water. Have a supply of water bottles with lids tightly secured so you

have access to clean water. For a family of four or a dorm of roommates, plan on ten cases of water. Something else to invest in is a filtration system; it saves space that water would take up, and you can use it on any water source you come across. The second item you need is non-perishable food. Keep nonperishable food that doesn’t need refrigeration and that has a long shelf life. Be aware of expiration dates, and switch out your food storage when nearing the expiration date. The last thing you want when a disaster hits is to have a limited food supply or expired food. The last items to add to your emergency preparedness kit are flashlights, extra batteries, matches, and lighters. Aside from food and water, light is the greatest need in a time of emergency. According to Survive Any Disaster, emergency candles can burn for up to fifty-five hours, so not only could you use one to help you see but also for warmth or to cook meals. The National Weather Service says the best way to prepare is to

be aware of the potential natural disasters in your area. They suggest listening to NOAA Weather Radio and watching social media and news channels. This is a good way to see how the disasters in your local area are being contained and to know if you need to take further action to stay safe. If the disaster causes you to stay home, prepare a safe room with window covers and have a preparedness plan. The safe room could be your family meeting place, equipped with a good supply of food and water. Though we may know its seasons, weather can still be unpredictable. It’s always important to know how to prepare and what resources are available. You don’t have to have a big budget to start preparing for a disaster. If something were to happen, having the basics on hand will help.

—Hayden Wise

Source: www.surviveanydisaster.com

Volcanic Vacations

Must-see volcanos around the world

aybe it’s the lava they spew, the earthquakes they create, or even the noise they make when they explode with more energy than a nuclear bomb—whatever the case may be, volcanos are naturally intriguing. That’s why you should go on a volcano tour for your next vacation. Here are the volcanos you should visit:

Arenal, Costa Rica

Those looking for a rich, diverse experience with a variety of activities should consider Arenal for their next vacation spot. The tall, symmetrical volcano is Costa Rica’s most active one, although it is currently in a resting phase. It’s hard to find better scenery than that at Arenal. The basin is surrounded by green hillsides where visitors can enjoy a variety of activities aside from the volcano tour. Some of these activities include white-water rafting, horseback riding, bird watching, cave exploring, and hiking.

Mount Aso, Japan

This volcano has an elevation of over 5,000 feet and is home to one of the largest active craters in the world, which measures seventy-one miles in circumference. Mount Aso is a beautiful tourist attraction: farmlands and small towns surround the area, and anyone can take cable cars from the basin to the top of the mountain to view the crater. While this volcano is as enormous as it is beautiful, it can be tricky to visit. Poisonous gases often emit from the crater, so officials tend to close the park depending on the state of the volcano. If you can hit it while it is open, you will have an unforgettable experience visiting Japan’s largest active volcano.

(William Cho)

(Brian Snelson)

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Kilauea, Hawaii

While this volcano recently erupted in the summer of 2018, destroying several homes and displacing hundreds of families, the volcanic activity has slowed down since then. In fact, the national park where this volcano is located recently opened, and tourists can once again visit the site. This would be a great opportunity for curious travelers to see how volcanos can reshape and, in this case, even expand entire islands.

Mount Stromboli, Italy

Those looking to catch a volcano in action should first consider Mount Stromboli, which is known for having constant volcanic activity. This volcano isn’t the largest one out there, but it does put on a great show. Volcano tours are often led at night so that viewers can see the volcano spewing out streams of lava.

Whakaari, New Zealand

Whakaari, or as the Maori call it, “the dramatic volcano,” is the perfect place for adventurous types to visit. Not only is the volcano known for its steaming fumaroles and amazing views, but it is also known for being hazardous. Visitors are required to wear hard hats and gas masks when visiting certain areas.

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Wherever you decide to travel, consider visiting a volcano if there is one nearby. Volcano tours are a great way to experience the natural world as well as to marvel at the earth’s most powerful forces. Most volcano tours come equipped with a wide variety of attractions, so finding something that is suitable to everyone in your group will be the least of your worries. Grab your bags and visit a volcano—it’s worth it.

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—K.C. Miller Sources:

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www.natgeokids.com, science.howstuffworks.com, www.britannica.com, www.japanguide.com, www.newzealand.com, www.theguardian.com, and www.arenal.net

Ice Capades F

rom The Chronicles of Narnia to Frozen, people have long been fascinated by the harsh beauty of winter and by the wonder of snow castles. Beyond fairy-tale ice kingdoms, the world is full of genuine ice castles that you can visit and even stay in. Here are just a few of the incredible ice structures from around the world that bring storybook imaginings into reality.

Hotel de Glace

Looking for a cool place to spend the night? Look no further. Canada is home to one of the world’s finest ice hotels. Just over two miles away from Québec City, this masterpiece of a hotel is constructed entirely out of ice. It is redesigned and rebuilt every winter, so every visit is a completely unique experience. You can spend your time goggling at the ice décor, grabbing a drink from a glass made of ice, or warming up in the hotel’s outdoor hot tubs. If you’re looking for a good place to chill out over the weekend, book your stay at the Hotel de Glace today!

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Snow was falling, so much like stars filling the dark trees that one could easily imagine its reason for being was nothing more than prettiness. Mary Oliver

★ ★

Jungfraujoch Palace

If you ever find yourself travelling to Switzerland, be sure to check out the Jungfraujoch Palace. This palace is carved out of a glacier in the Swiss Alps and is the highest altitude ice palace in the world. The Jungfraujoch Palace includes sculptures of furniture, animals, and cars. It even has its own sculpted drink bar! This intricate icy fortress is actually a train station on the Jungfrau railway, so be sure to step out of the train when you get to this spectacular station.

SnowCastle of Kemi

The SnowCastle of Kemi is the largest snow fort in the world. Every year it is redesigned and rebuilt by a different architect. Despite this process, the design always includes a chapel, a restaurant, and a hotel. This fort is a popular destination for weddings and has ornate decorations fashioned by local artists. If you’re looking for something extravagant that you can tell your grandkids about, do yourself a favor and book a trip to Kemi, Finland.

Sapporo Ice Festival

Japan is home to one of the largest ice festivals in the world. The festival is known for its enormous replicas of famous monuments such as the Taj Mahal and the Stockholm Cathedral. Although the festival is only open for one week, millions of tourists come to see what new sculptures are being presented that year. So, come join the crowds and see what masterpieces are on display this year!

—Natalie Ann Davis Sources:

www.shutterstock.com, www.fodors.com, wikipedia.com, and www.departures.com

Photo Contest Runners-up

Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College Chapel from the River Cam; Cambridge, England; Madison Brasher Peruvian Mother in the Andes Mountains; Cusco, Peru; Natasha Huhem

Expand |our world!

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Stowaway Winter 2019

Articles inside

A Storm Is Coming

Finding the Fjord

Sugar Highway

Vesuvius's First Victim

Life Above The Death Zone

Trucks By the Bay

Night Markets In Taipei

Color in the Dark

Collapsing Colonies

South Korea

Sharing the Sacred City

Dark Tours

Stolen Art

Catch the Classics

Walk Like an Egyptian

Paradise Found

Alaska