The Traveling Eye

Travel Gifts

2011-12-17T11:49:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Want to know what to get jet setter in your life. OK, they may not be a jet setter but if they travel they'll appreciate one of these gifts for Christmas.

The Silk Travel Blanket:
Why we love it? It's yours and yours alone. It hasn't been used by thousands of other people. We also like the weight of it and the foot pocket. Use it on the plane, in the car or at the hotel, especially if you are sensitive to detergents.
Cost: $42.85

Magellan's Smart Lite Travel Alarm Clock:
Why we love it? It's small, has a back light that turns on automatically, large LCD display and an ascending volume.
Cost: $20.85

Balanzza Mini Luggage Scale:
Why we love it? It's compact and you get to weigh your luggage before the airline does. No surprises. It also has an ergonomic handle, displays in pounds and kilogram and will store your bags weight in memory so you can read it after you put it down.
Cost: $25.00

Folding Noise Canceling Headphones:
Why we love it? NOISE CANCELING! Well that's the number one reason. It drowns out the surrounding noise so all you hear is your music or movie. We also like that it's folding so it packs nicely.
Cost: $69.95

Magellan's On Tour Under seat Rolling Tote:
Why we love it? It's lightweight, fits under the seat, made of rough ballistic nylon, has lots of pockets inside and out, and did I say fits under the seat! Had to say it again.
Cost: $99.00

Smart Packing DVD:
Why we love it? We travel a lot and see tons of people with too much luggage. Here's a tutorial on packing. It will save you time, money and back pain!
Cost: 14.85

Magellan's Aluminum Travel Wallet
Why we love it? Beside the fact that it looks nice and is sleek, it has RFID protection in the design.
Cost: $29.50

Magellan's EveryWear Women's Hipster Travel Brief:
Why we love it? They're designed for travel, won't bunch, very soft, stretchy and they look nice.
Cost: 14.50

Travel Combination Converter/Adaptor Plugs:
Why we love it? It automatically switches itself based on the appliance combining the function of a transformer converter and the converter for heating appliances.
Cost: $48.85

Magellan's Luxe Inflatable Seat Cushion:
Why we love it? It has Motion Response which means it moves when you do. It also looks nice and can be used on planes, trains, ships, cars or stadiums.
Cost: $29.85

Women's Voyager Convertible Travel Jacket:
Why we love it? It fits a women's shape! Can you believe what you can put in it's multi-pockets? Umbrella, iPad, phone, guidebook, maps, compact camera, water just to name a few. The sleeves zip off and it's water-resistant and machine washable.
Cost: $129.50

Mobile Power Flex DC to AC Adaptor:
Why we love it? It gives your car an electrical outlet. It converts your cigarette lighter into a wall-style AC outlet. It has a 300 watts of surge capacity protection and automatic shut down to protect your cars battery.
Cost: $34.85

The above items are all found at www.magellans.com.

Please note that all of these items were selected by The Traveling Eye team because these are the items we love and use!

Other items we love

Pocket Purifier:
Why we love? We're not germophobes but we recognize that being around alot of people in areas that are not always cleaned thoroughly, impurities can spread and make you sick. The Pocket Purifier is a handheld germ killing UV light. It's compact and can be used on just about any thing. One thing I use it for is the back seat tray on planes.
Find it at www.purelyproducts.com/pocket-purifier

Arm Pocket Sport 20:
Why we love it? it fits on your arm, is moisture resistant and holds touch screen devices, ID, credit cards and keys. Great for working out or on a day of touring to keep your items from harms way.
Find it at www.armpocket.com

ETA Neck Pillow & Blanket:
Why we love it? If you've ever listened to our show you have heard me on numerous occasions talk about how much I love the traveling neck pillow and having my own blanket.
Find it at www.etatravelgear.com

Happy Shopping and Merry Christmas from The Traveling Eye!

THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR WALKING...ROME

2011-11-22T14:35:00.000-08:00

The booties

These boots are made for walking, the streets of Italy that is. I was concerned with my recent trip to Italy because I knew that touring Italy means walking. While I normally love walking a city, my concern was that this summer I broke my big toe and have been slowly making my way into shoes. I have tennis shoes (for working out only) and high heels. So, I purchased a pair of booties just prior to my departure and hoped they would support me through my days in Rome, the Tuscany Region and Venice. You see, in Italy you don't see many tennis shoes. It's all about fashion. The average person is fashionable but their old sidewalks and uneven pavement are murder on heels. Booties don't fail me now.

I actually wore my booties on the plane. They have one zipper at the heel which makes them easy to take off and put back on. They have a one inch heel and are of the softest leather. Boy, were they comfortable even after my feet swelled a bit. Can't seem to lay off the wine!

Colosseum

Trevi Fountain

Bonnie and me walking down Spanish Steps

We began touring right after arriving with only enough time to check into our room and freshen up. First stop, Rome and a walk around the outside of the Colosseum. What was evident to me after listening to our guide is that my history of the Colosseum was derived from movies. While Hollywood stays pretty close to the true history, some creative embellishment has been implemented. For example; As told by our guide, the symbol for "to the death" is not a thumbs down. The gesture is made with the thumb to side with a swipe across the throat. Another misrepresentation pointed out by our guide is that masses of Christians were persecuted at the Colosseum. The Colosseum was the arena for wild animals brought in from Africa battling during the day and gladiators battling in the afternoon. How are the feet? So far so good! Later that afternoon the Trevi Fountain and The Spanish Steps. Absolutely love the energy at both. Filled with crowds of tourists from all over the world taking photos and just hanging around along with locals busying about. Trevi Fountain, Fontana di Trevi, is a beautiful site and half the fun is jockeying for position to throw your coin in, in hopes of a return on your investment of returning to Rome, a tradition of legend that doesn't seem to be lost on anyone. It's a beautiful piece of art that stands out among the crowds and chaos. The fountain was completed in 1762 by Nicoli Salvi, who was commissioned by Pope Clement XII. It took 30 years to be built. The Spanish Steps or Piazza de Spanga ascends to the French Church Trinita dei Monti. At the bottom of the steps is Fontana della Barcaccia, the fountain, shaped like a small boat. The 137 steps in three tiers begs a climb to the top for a fantastic view of Rome and the square below. So far my booties are still comfortable. Suggestion: Do your reading on the history ahead of time and do these two sites on your own so you can take your time and soak up the scenery. Side bar: On our walk from The Trevi Fountain to The Spanish Steps we window shopped. Store window after store window wowed us with the most stylish shoes and hand bags. The highest heels I've ever seen and the sharpest styles. Red ones, black ones, ones covered in crystals, feathers or fringes. The most outlandish...a pig bag. A large bag shaped like a pig covered in crystals!

After our day of touring the hunger pangs started knocking. We gathered the group and headed to Renovatio La Soffitta for our welcome dinner. La Soffitta is a small restaurant, as most are in Italy and is located near The Vatican. When in Rome, well you know the rest...we had a traditional five course meal starting with Antipasti (dried meat selection, cheese selection, olives and marinated vegetables). First Course or Primi Piatti or Pasta course; Rigatoni alla Marinara and meat lasagna. Third course insalata or salad. Main course or Secondi Piatti, Saltimbocca alla Roma, a thin piece of veal with a lemon sauce. Fifth course DESSERT. We had a selection of different Italian desserts, a lemon cheese cake made with ricotta cheese, of course tiramisu and a variety of tarts Italian donuts, one was soaked in Ameretto that was like taking a shot.

Nothing to do with my booties, my feet needed a well deserved break and now with my belly full, my body needed a good stretch and a good night sleep.

Shot from the Sistine Chapel

I've been to Rome a couple of times and had never gone to The Vatican Museums. Actually, I never had an interest in going. I know what you're thinking. Who's not interested in The Vatican. I can't tell you why, I just wasn't. Needless to say, I am so very glad I did. It was fa-bu-lous! The architecture, the paintings, the tapestries, the history, the serenity. I could go on and on. There are currently 13 Vatican Museums that make up the complex housing works of art through the centuries with different Popes adding to the collection over time. It was founded by Popes Clement XIV and Pius VI. But of course the most famous are the Sistine Chapel and the works of Michelangelo. There's a photo I took and I'm not sure it captured what my natural eye lens saw but it's of a group of cardinals in a corridor. This sounds simple enough but the lighting and placement spoke volumes. We were then in the midst of a parade of cardinals with varied styles, different head coverings and swagger, yes swagger. One had on a fedora and a top coat draped over his shoulders. They were of different ethnicity from different parts of the world. What a treat! From the beginning of tour outside of the cathedral to the end finishing with Swiss Guards colorfully clad, I was enthralled! The Vatican City is a must see. By the way...booties and feet still feeling fine! Suggestion: Go on a guided tour so you'll know what your seeing and to skip the long lines.

Where we stayed: Hotel Giulio Cesare or as we would say Julius Cesar. This is a four star property located at Via degli Scipioni and near St. Peters Basilica. If you go to the roof top at night you get a beautiful view of the Basilica. This is a 19th century partician villa that has every bit of Italian charm.

South Africa's Taste Makers Series

2011-09-19T12:06:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, I attended the first of South Africa Tourism's Taste Makers Series in New York at Marcus Samuelsson's restaurant Red Rooster in Harlem. The Taste Makers Series is a marketing campaign to reconnect African Americans to South Africa.

There is such a kinship with African Americans and Black South Africans. Starting from the parallels of segregation and apartheid and continuing with cultures that are very similar from signature music that's born out of experiences, soulful foods and gatherings that are unique to Juke Joints in America and Shebeens in South Africa.

Wednesdays event was elegantly casual. The food Red Rooster presented, which is indicative of his menu, was a fusion of African American and African cuisine like Fried Chicken with a spicy curry sauce, bread bowls filled with pulled curried chicken and spicy shrimp. We were serenaded by Lorraine Klaasen with soulful South African Jazz and given inviting presentations from industry experts and frequent travelers to South Africa, one of which was yours truly. The presenters painted a picture of the many wonderful experiences you can have in South Africa from cultural to the most adventurous. South Africa is truly a place where you "Leave Ordinary Behind"

I'd like to thank Sthu Zungu, President of South African Tourism, USA and her team in New York for putting together such a wonderful event and including Advantage International in their Taste Makers Series.

Advantage International has two South Africa trips coming up in February and March 2012. For more information on either trip visit our website

MLK, Jr. Memorial

2011-08-31T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hey there,

I can't tell you how thrilled I was to be in Washington, DC for the MLK, Jr. Memorial and Dedication. As you know the weekends events including the dedication were canceled due to Hurricane Irene, that had a direct path up the the east coast of the United States. Because of the uncertainty of the velocity of the hurricane/storm, the events organizers with consultation from the city and FEMA, thought it would be in the best interest and safety of all to make the decision to cancel the weekends activities. While I initially thought the decision was made too early, our friend, Alpha Phi Alpha alumni and Greats Lakes Zone Director Multicultural Markets at State Farm Insurance, advised us that one of the main reasons the decision was made early was because of the number of travelers coming for the day by bus. It could have been disastrous to have people stranded on a bus and without shelter. Fortunately for those who were already in town, the Memorial was opened earlier in the week and stayed open until noon Saturday. This gave us the opportunity to see the Memorial. As they are saying, there is a King among Presidents on the National Mall in Washington, DC. The MLK, Jr. Memorial is not only the first person of color represented on the Mall but is the only non-president on the Mall. This makes for a Monumental occasion!!!

We arrived on Thursday afternoon along with many others who flew in on American Airlines. We saw so many Alpha's at the airport and on the plane with us. The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, one of the major contributors, had their own list of activities and events for the Memorial and Dedication weekend. The men I met along the way, of all ages, were so proud to be a part of this Memorial. I got a glimpse of the Alpha's at their private event and visit to the Memorial. All the men were dressed in black and gold, the fraternity's colors, marching toward King's statue. Thursday evening the announcement was made that there would be cancellations of the some of the events.

Craig, Bonnie, Ja'Vonne, Wayne

Bonnie, Craig Gilmore, Ja'Vonne


Denyce Graves & Ja'Vonne Harley (Me)

So, Friday we made a concerted effort to see and do as much as we could before Irene showed up in Washington, DC. Friday, actually turned out to be a beautiful day. It rained in the morning and quickly gave way to a partly cloudy day. We started our day with our radio broadcast from the Washington Convention Center. The convention center was to be the venue of many of the events throughout the weekend. On this day they still had the exhibition hall open, although it would close earlier than scheduled, the ladies of legend luncheon and the radio broadcasts. We then did some shopping around the exhibit hall. The MLK Memorial Book Store was there and where we spent most of our money and time. We purchased commemorative items and I got a piece of the granite stone that was used to carve the Mountain of Despair that King protrudes from. There were 5,000 pieces and I got one of them. After our shopping spree we headed over to Constitution hall to interview and visit with one of my high school friends and famous mezzo soprano, Denyce Graves, who was also performing later that night. We were there during the rehearsals of the APA's Theatrical & Musical Celebration Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We were able to catch Denyce in her dressing room. Now, we're off to the main attraction...The MLK, Jr. Memorial!!! Not know where to enter, I looked at the map from the event schedule and directions from different Metro stations. They all directed us to 15th Street. This was a little confusing since I saw the entry portal on 17th Street. Anyway Bonnie and I walked down 18th Street and headed towards 15th Street, but then I questioned this decision and headed back up Independence Avenue to 17th Street before we had gone too far and there it was. We saw two pillars of stone and lots of people coming and going. The two pillars of stone are the entry portal. As you walk through the entry portal you see one 30 foot stone, to the left and right is a wall of quotes (The Inscription Wall) that bends around the Memorial like arms stretched out wide. On each side of the stone is a quote "Out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope" and "I was a drum major for justice, peace and righteousness". Then you see King, coming out of the stone or mountain with arms crossed and facing the Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial. It's a peaceful area that has a feeling of reflection. There are places to sit and visitors did just that as they chatted with one another. I can only imagine what it will look like when the cherry trees are in full bloom and at night when the Memorial is illuminated.

I'm definitely going back in the spring when the trees are in bloom!!!! Maybe you'll join me!

Until our next journey together.
Ja'Vonne Harley, Co-Host - The Traveling Eye, Owner - Advantage International, LLC

CHICAGO CityPASS

2011-08-06T18:05:00.000-07:00

Ja’Vonne and I recently became tourist in our own city by using the Chicago CityPASS. With the CityPASS we were able to visit five out of seven major Chicago attractions at a much discounted price. The CityPASS also put us on the fast track to the head of lines and entrance to some exhibits.

We had a great time going from attraction to attraction. I think our favorite was the Skywalk on the Skydeck of Willis Tower. I was a little hesitant to step out on the Skywalk high above the streets of Chicago but Ja’Vonne convinced me to go for it and it was awesome.

We found that the CityPASS was a great and economical way to enjoy the city.

The Traveling Eye and Chicago CityPASS would like to give you a chance to win the CityPASS experience. One person has the chance to win 2 City Passes by easily answering 3 questions. You MUST email your answers to thetravelingeye@aol.com and you must get all 3 questions correct. We will announce the winner on our Friday, August 12^th show on 1690WVON between 11AM and Noon. You may also listen to The Traveling Eye by going to www.wvon.com or watch us live in studio at www.thetravelingeye.com. Are you ready?

1. 1. Before becoming what it is today, this CityPASS destination was the former Palace of Fine Arts from the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exhibition. It was also, at one time, the Field Museum of Natural History.

2. 2. This attraction was located on the corner of State and Monroe before moving to its present location. It now holds more than 5000 years of human expression from cultures around the world.

3. 3. From this attraction one can see 360 degree views of the city, up to 4 states, and over 80 miles.

Answer these three questions and you can win 2 City Passes to visit 5 of Chicago’s great attractions. You must email your answers to thetravelingeye@aol.com. We will announce the winner on Friday, August 12, 2011, during our show on WVON between 11AM to Noon Central time.

Good Luck and remember to keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie

SHAWNEE WINE TRAIL - DAY TWO!

2011-07-24T20:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Howard of Video Twist Productions, Ja'Vonne and I recently spent two nights and three days in Southernmost Illinois touring the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. On day one we visited Blue Sky, Orlandini, Owl Creek and Rustle Hills Wineries and Vineyards. With the help of tasting staff at the vineyards and our own wine expert Ja'Vonne, Howard and I were educated on the different types of wine, food that should pair with each wine, and the correct way to taste a wine. You swirl the wine in the glass, sniff the bouquet of the wine, sip and slurp, hold and swallow so the wine hits the back of the tongue and you can taste the full flavor. There is something about tandons (not sure if it is spelled right) but I don't understand that part yet.

It's day two and we head over to Scandinavian Gift shop and tasting room at the Hedman Vineyards (www.peachbarn.com) Gerd and Anders Hedman opened Hedman Vineyards in 2005.

Hedman Vineyards

They produce European-styled wines and offer Swedish cuisine in their Peach Barn Cafe. The gift shop has some great Swedish cookies and preserves. When we visit again we must try their Swedish Meatballs with a glass of wine.

Bonnie, Paul, Ja'Vonne

Next stop Alto Vineyards! In 1984 Guy Renzaglia, Ted Wichmann and others established the Alto Vineyards (www.altovineyards.com). It is the first commercial winery in Southern Illinois. Now the Alto is run by Paul Renzaglia. Paul has been our show via phone so Ja'Vonne and I were excited to visit Alto Vineyards and meet Paul in person. He took us out into the vineyards and explained the grapes to us. It was HOT that day and we were past the perspiring stage and into a full sweat so we decided to head in, cool off and taste the finished products of the grapes. I tasted my first Port wine and found that I enjoyed it. I left with a bottle of Porto Di Guido and another chapter written in my "understanding wine" handbook.

In 1997, Dr. Paul and Rhoda Jacobs opened the first Von Jakob Vineyard (www.vonjakobvineyard.com) in Pomona, Illinois. The second location is located in Alto Pass which is where we were having lunch. Von Jakob has recently added brewery to its name as they now produce fine tasting beer. We decided to forgo the wine tasting to sample a little of their new product. When you visit, I suggest you order the cheese bread and the meatball sandwich. Real good stuff!

Ja'Vonne, George, Bonnie

Our last winery for the day was to the Pomona Winery (www.pomonawinery.com). This winery is different because it does not use any grapes to make their wine. George Majka and Jane Payne broke ground in 1989 to build Pomona Winery. They are both carpenters so they actual built the winery. Instead of dealing with planting and harvesting grapes, they decided to make their wine using fresh fruits. We spent an hour with George as we tasted wines with names like Once in a Blue Moon Blueberry Wine, Sweet Apple, Kir, and Jonathon Oak Aged Reserve. With each wine, George would give us a recipe of how to infuse the wine in the preparation of a dish as well as drinking a glass to compliment the meal. You know I had to take the Once in a Blue Moon Blueberry Dessert Wine home with me.We waved goodbye to George and Jane and headed home to relax and prepare for out last day in Shawnee.

Day Three!

It was our last day in the Shawnee area and we had to pack the car and head over to the Star View Vineyard (www.starviewvineyard), where we were doing our live broadcast, having lunch and of course, tasting wine before heading back home to Chicago. Scott and Kate Sensmeire opened Star View Vineyards in 2005. Their first harvest yielded six award winning wines. They offered their vineyard to us to do our live broadcast back to Chicago and we found the perfect place to set up, out on the patio overlooking the vineyards. It was one of the hottest days in creation but Kate told us the best way to handle the heat is by having a cool glass of wine. It was still hot but the wine was delicious. Scott brought in some grapes he had picked and kept cool. One bunch would be red wine and the other white. Don't tell him, but they both looked the same to me.

It was time for us to pack up, collect all the wine we bought and head back to Chicago. I learned so much on this trip to Southernmost Illinois. Illinois has mountains, beautiful forests, and wonderful people. All wines do not taste like Morgan David and dry red wines actually taste good. You shouldn't leave good wine, like the award winning wines made along the Shawnee Wine Trail, in your car when it is warm, and good friendships and conversations are made over a nice glass of wine.

Thanks to Carol Hoffman and everyone at the Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau (www.southernmostillinois.com) for helping us plan this great road trip. I raise my glass to all the award winning wineries and vineyards along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Thank you for your hospitality, lessons in wine enjoyment, and making my initiation into tasting and drinking wine fun.

Bonnie, Howard, Ja'Vonne - The Traveling Eye

I recommend you plan a trip down to Southernmost Illinois and introduce yourself to all the great things this area has to offer. Illinois is an awesome state, mile after magnificent mile.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie

THE SHAWNEE WINE TRAIL

2011-07-24T17:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

The Traveling Eye just spent 3 days on the Shawnee Wine Trail in Southernmost Illinois and loved every minute of it.

Ja'Vonne, Howard (Video Twist Productions) and I jumped in the car and headed to Shawnee to visit the award winning wineries and vineyards of Southern Illinois. In 1995, the owners of the first three wineries in Southern Illinois worked together with the Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau and the Carbondale Convention and Tourism Bureau to create the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. In 2006, Illinois received its first American Viticulturel Area recognized by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. Southern Illinois' Shawnee Hills region is the state's first region acknowledged for its distinctive winemaking properties.

There are now 13 vineyards on the wine trail and we visited and tasted 9 of them.With Ja'Vonne as my teacher I was ready to enter the world of Chardonnay and Concord.

Winemaker Karen Hand - Blue Sky

Jim Ewers, Karen Hand, Ja'Vonne, Bonnie

Our first stop was the Blue Sky Vineyard (www.blueskyvineyard.com) where we met winemaker Karen Hand and owner Jim Ewers. Karen took us through the winemaking process and gave us a tasting of Blue Sky's award winning wines.Guests can have a meal, enjoy a glass of wine on the patio overlooking the vineyards. After swirling, sniffing and sipping I chose the Blue Sky Vignoles to start my wine collection.

Bonnie, Mr. Orlandini, Ja'Vonne

Orlandini Vineyard (www.orlandinivineyard.com) was next. Mr. Orlandini planted his first vines in 1988 and released his first wine to the public in 2001. The Rosso Gustoso Semi Sweet Red is in my wine rack.

Bonnie, Brad, Ja'Vonne

Ted Wichmann, one first three winery owners in Southern Illinois, built Owl Creek Vineyard (www.owlcreekvineyard.com) in 1994. It is now owned and operated by Brad Genung and family. Owl Creek has a very comfortable tasting room. The setting outside is so tranquil you kind of feel as if you are high in the trees among the owls. I left there with a bottle of Chambourcin under my arm.

I don't know if you have been counting but that was three wineries, tasting four to six wines each and it was just day one.

Rustle Hill Winery

Ja'Vonne, Bonnie, John

Before we head back to our lodging for the night we stop to have dinner and more wine at the Rustle Hill Winery (www.rustlehillwinery.com). John Russell met us and gave us a tour of the outdoor amphitheater and really nice rental cabins. We then headed into the restaurant but before we settled in for some good food and entertainment, we headed over to Bob at the bar for some more wine tasting. The Sayval Blanc sweet table wine was my Rustle Hill choice. Do you see a pattern of my buying sweet wines? Ja'Vonne told me that most novices may lean toward the sweet until they educate their palate more. She knows her stuff. I must mention that the entertainment for the evening was a young man named Eli Tellor. He sat, played his guitar and sang like a man with a story to tell. Remember his name, he is destined for success in the music industry.

Bonnie and Ja'Vonne - CHEERS!

Day one was over and we were tired, full and our head are feeling no pain. It was time to head back to The Water Valley Inn for a good nights sleep. We had more vineyards to hit tomorrow.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie

SHAWNEE, ILLINOIS BEST KEPT SECRET

2011-07-24T16:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Ja'Vonne, Howard, and I just got back from the Southernmost Illinois Shawnee area. I can hear you asking yourself, "Where?" Most of you know where Carbondale is, Shawnee begins about 17 miles south of Carbondale and is some of the most beautiful country you will find. There is also a Wine Trail to explore.

We decided to take a road trip and left Chicago around 6 AM heading south on I-57. We were scheduled (according to our GPS system) to arrive at our lodging, The Water Valley Inn, at 10:20 AM. Everything was cool and smooth until we got to the Shawnee area. I will only say, our GPS lady wasn't on her best game and we ending going in circles. However, there are some great people that live in the area and after a few directions we made it to our destination.

Innkeeper Kim, Ja'Vonne and Howard

The Water Vally Inn (www.1watervalleyinn.com) is a bed and breakfast that is in a beautiful five bedroom farmhouse. It is the perfect place for a large family or group of friends to stay when visiting the area, exploring the Wine Trail, or planning a golf or fishing trip. When we arrived, innkeeper, Kim Aldridge greeted us and took us on a tour of this historic home that has been in her husbands family for almost a century. The kitchen comes fully stocked with anything you may need to make breakfast or have a snack. The Water Valley Inn is very welcoming, comfortable, and relaxing. We enjoyed our stay there.

Carol Hoffman from the Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau was our guide and had prepared a itinerary for us that would give us a great feeling of the spirit of the Shawnee area and community.

The Bald Knob Cross

A top Bald Knob Mountain

We started off at the Bald Knob Cross (www.baldknobcross.com) which is at the top of Bald Knob Mountain.Yes, there are mountains in Illinois. Why a cross on the top of a mountain? It's a long story that you should go to the web site to read but in a nut shell, in 1937, Wayman Presley and an minister friend came up with the idea to hold an Easter service on the top of the mountain that would include all Christian denominations and other religious groups. That first year 250 people showed up. The service has grown over the years and continues today. We found the site to be peaceful and beautiful. From the top of the mountain you can see the Ohio River, Missouri, Kentucky and Illinois. We even saw a red tailed hawk fly right in front of our car. It was awesome.

Ja'Vonne taking the hike

Pomona Natural Bridge

We then went to the Pomona Natural Bridge which is surround by the Shawnee National Forest. We took a short hiking trail that led around to the natural bridge which spans 90 feet. It is just there, made by nature withstanding time. Ja'Vonne walked over the bridge and made the short quarter of a mile hike back to where Howard and I were taking pictures and filming. I could envision Native Americans of the Shawnee nation walking across this bridge through the forest centuries ago.

Anthill Gallery & Other Curiosities in Cobden

There is more to do in the Shawnee area then commune with nature. There are antique stores and museums, golfing, fishing, artist communities and shops, and festivals, just to name a few things.

Bonnie, Betty, Ja'Vonne

Southernmost Illinois is known for having fruit orchards. We stopped by Rendleman Orchards' Farm Market and met Betty who took us through the process of how the fruit is picked, sorted, handled, and packaged to be shipped to stores and sold in the Rendleman Market. This is peach season and in the fall the peaches will be replaced with apples, all grown and packaged by Illinois Farmers.

We then went to the Giant City State Park to have dinner at the Giant City State Park Lodge. The Park and Lodge is located in another section of forest in Shawnee. There is horse back riding, camping, cabins, and hiking trails. If you decide to have dinner at the lodge, I suggest you get the all you can eat fried chicken dinner. Howard (Video Twist Productions) gives it 4 winks of the Eye!

One of the main attractions of the Shawnee area is the Shawnee Wine Trail. I will tell you all about that in my next post.

Until next time, keep you EYE to the sky!

Bonnie

THE ROYAL FOOD EXPERIENCE

2011-07-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Ja'Vonne and I are self proclaimed "Foodies" so one way we determine a great destination is through the gastronomical experience. We were not disappointed at The ROYAL in Playa Del Carmen and Cancun. Known as giving the "Gourmet All-Inclusive Experience" The ROYAL takes it to another level when it comes to dining. The resort offers everything from tapas and sushi, to rack of lamb and escargots, to dining on the beach, plus 24-hour room service. No matter where you decide to eat on property, everything looks, smells and tastes delicious.

Lamb at Maria Marie

All of my meals were wonderful so I will only point out a few of my many favorite dishes. Our first night at The ROYAL in Playa Del Carmen we ate at beautiful Maria Marie restaurant. We were served; Sweet and Sour Salad, Shrimp Bisquet, Lamb Chops Charcutiere, and Chocolate Fondant for dessert. The meal was paired with Chardonnay, Monte Xanic, Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico (that's wine). Everything was served nicely and with a little flair. I am one that isn't fond of Lamb but I have always been taught that you honor your host by eating what they have prepared. I am so glad my momma taught me well. This lamb was the best I have ever eaten. Usually there is a gamey taste to lamb, not this one. It was marinated with Dijon mustard and was so tender and delicious. (my mouth is watering as I speak).

Steak from the Mediterranean, Yum

Shrimp from Pelicanos

Mediterranean

Another of my favorite restaurants was Tapas. It was great for lunch or dinner. The food was so fresh and tasty. The best steak I have ever tasted was at the Mediterranean restaurant. If you have a love of Asian Cuisine the Asiana - Oriental Gourmet Restaurant is the place for you and if the ocean is what you would like to see while you dine, Pelicanos - Ocean View Restaurant is a great place to start or finish your day. There are other great restaurants and bars on property at The ROYAL that I could tell you about but then you wouldn't have anything to discover on your own.

Now that I have made myself hungry talking about the wonderful restaurants and delicious food that you will experience The ROYAL Gourmet All-Inclusive Resorts, I am going to head off and pop some popcorn. (Nope, I can't cook at all.)

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie

THE ROYAL SPA TREATMENT

2011-07-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

While visiting The ROYAL Resort in Playa Del Carmen and Cancun, Mexico, I had a chance to spend some quality time in the Spa at both locations. SPAzul says that it is committed to helping you find your inner harmony within the universe. They take this to heart. From the entrance to the spa, to the treatments, to the professionals that administer the treatments, SPAzul treats your total being.

Ja'Vonne and I decided to take one of our spa treatments outdoors on the beach. At first I didn't think I would be able to relax with all the activity around me. The minute I got on the table and Christina began working on my neck, shoulders and back, I felt the stress leave and relaxation take it's place. The sound of the waves, the music in the distance, the gentle breeze off of the ocean and the skillful hands working their magic, I was off in a different world. 50 minutes went by quickly but I felt like a different person when I got off the table.

My body was on point, now it was time to take care of the spirit. SPAzul incorporates the Maya-inspired Saas Spa total health and well-being concept to their menu. The "whole" being is treated not just the individual parts. The body, mind and spirit are reached in equal measure. It was time for me to experience Temazcal: An Ancient Mayan Ritual of Purification, Detoxification and Rebirth. You may know this as a sweat lodge or steam house. A Shaman guides you through your journey through conversation, listening, and revealing from your inner most self. I won't go into my experience with you because it is my experience. I will say I left the hut with a new understanding of me.

After any treatment that you have at SPAzul you must take time to relax in the sauna, hot tub or steam room. Lie on one of the relaxing chairs and enjoy the full experience your spa experience.

SPAzul is one of my favorite spas. When you visit The ROYAL in Playa Del Carmen or Cancun you owe it to yourself to set aside time to ""indulge your senses, engage your spirit, and savor the surprises."

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie

SHAWNEE HILL WINE TRAIL ITINERARY

2011-07-22T08:53:00.000-07:00

Wed. July 20, 2011

Apx. Noon: Arrive at the Water Valley Inn, 3435 Water Valley Rd, Cobden, IL 62920

www.1watervalleyinn.com Give Kim Aldridge, the innkeeper, a call at 618-534-2244 when you are close.

Take a few minutes to bring in your luggage, and, I will meet you at the Inn about 12:30pm.

My (Carol Hoffman) cell phone 618-697-2844. Give me a call if you find that we need to adjust our times at all.

12:30pm: We will take the scenic drive to Blue Sky Vineyard for lunch & wine tasting. www.blueskyvineyard.com Brandy 967-4097 Karen or Jim 995-9463

turn left on Rocky Comfort Rd. Turn left on Thorn Ln.

2:30pm: We’ll meet the wine maker at Orlandini Vineyard. www.orlandinivineyard.com 995-2307

turn right on Rocky Comfort Rd. left on Water Valley Rd, 1.3 miles, left on Buffalo Gap, then take 1^st right on Water Valley, turn left to stay on Water Valley, Own Creek on the right.

3:30pm: Our next stop will be Owl Creek Vineyard, one of the founding members of the wine trail. www.owlcreekvineyard.com 893-2557

go east about .6 miles to Bethel Church Rd, turn left on Wing Hill Rd. winery on right.

Apx. 5pm Stop in at Star View Vineyards to test broadcast site. www.starviewvineyards.com

Kate: 303-8587 Scott: 201-1822

Late afternoon, we can take some time to explore Giant City State Park. www.giantcitylodge.com

6:30pm: We’ll visit Rustle Hill Winery for dinner. www.rustlehillwinery.com

Country musician Eli Tellor begins at 7pm.

Thurs. July 21, 2011

Have breakfast at Water Valley Inn before departing.

9am: Depart for Alto Pass, IL.

9:30am: Enjoy a great view from atop Bald Knob Mountain, at the base of Bald Knob Cross. www.baldknobcross.com

10:15am You can browse through the Scandinavian Gift shop in the tasting room at Hedman Vineyards. www.peachbarn.com

11am: Our next stop is Alto Vineyards. www.altovineards.net

Paul Renzaglia will be available for possible interview about pioneering the wine industry in Southern Illinois.

Noon: Von Jakob Vineyard will provide lunch today at the larger of their two locations. www.vonjakobvineyard.com (Kate 893-4600)

From Pomona Rd, turn right on Sadler Rd, which becomes Natural Bridge Rd. .7 miles past Godwin Rd

Apx. 2pm: We’ll see the Pomona Natural Bridge, surrounded by the Shawnee National Forest.

Apx. 2:30pm: Sample fruit wines at Pomona Winery. www.pomonawinery.com

Apx. 3:45pm: Browse through Rendleman Orchards’ Farm Market. www.rendlemanorchards.com

Apx. 4:45pm: anthill gallery & vintage curiosities in Cobden features the art of 55 southern Illinois artists.

Apx. 5:30pm: Enjoy award-winning pizza at Cobden’s Palace Pizzeria

Starview Vineyards, www.starviewvineyards.com

The Royal Treatment in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

2011-07-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Ja'Vonne and I recently returned from a trip to Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. Playa Del Carmen is a quaint town in the Riviera Maya, about fifty-five minutes outside of Cancun. We went to experience THE ROYAL, a Gourmet All-Inclusive, adults only resort that is located in the heart of downtown Playa Del Carmen.
As we pulled up to the front of the resort, I immediately understood why THE ROYAL Playa Del Carmen is known as one of the most popular resorts in the Riviera Maya. From the time you step on property to the time you leave you feel as if you are a special guest.

As we stepped out of the car the doorman placed his hand over his heart and greeted is with the most beautiful smile and a warm, "Welcome Home". I immediately began to relax and enjoy the experience. We were directed to the check-in desk where we were offered a cool towel and a glass of something fruity with a little kick, to refresh ourselves.

I want you to look through my eyes to visualize this. As we are standing in the foyer there is a colorful Tiffany glass dome over our heads. It is absolutely beautiful. The lobby is large but intimate. There are cabana's to lie in, large comfortable chairs and couches, a bar and game tables. Everything is decorated in rich earth tones to give a quiet, serene feel. As I walk through the lobby I look straight ahead, through the open wall and I am blown away. The view of the grounds with sculptures, swimming pools surrounded by cabanas, and finally the ocean is breathtaking. Yep, I know I am going to enjoy my stay at THE ROYAL!

As I am shown to my room I am told that THE ROYAL is an all suite resort. There is 24 hour room service, 12 luxury-gourmet all inclusive restaurants ( I will tell you about the food later, it deserves a post all its own), a wonderful Eco-holistic Mayan-inspired, full service SPA, and so much more. Are you drooling yet? But wait there's more!

My suite faced the pool and the ocean. It was large, comfortable, and had a in-suite double jacuzzi. My balcony had my own hammock to lie in and relax. Are you thinking paradise? Me too.

THE ROYAL Resort Playa Del Carmen is one of four luxury all-inclusive resorts that are apart of the Real Resorts family. Real Resorts was founded in 1997 by Fernando Garcia Zalvidea, an ingenious man who took his dedication of promoting tourism throughout Cancun and Mexico's Riviera and turned it into an outlet, through Best Day Tours and Real Resorts, to make visitors to this area of Mexico feel, understand and appreciate the beauty of the area and the people who live there.

Over the next few days I will share with you my experience here at THE ROYAL Playa Del Carmen, my visit to THE ROYAL in Cancun, and our visit to Xcaret. It truly exceeded my expectations.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie DeShong!

Ethiopia with Zoma and Juna Wallace

2011-07-08T13:28:00.000-07:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

Below is a short story written by Juna Wallace of her and her sister's (Zoma Wallace) trip to Ethiopia. Enjoy!

My travels with my sister were in the interest of planning for and organizing a presentation given on behalf of the Zoma Contemporary Arts Center of Ethiopia, hosted by its foundress Mrs. Meskerem Assegued, a symposium entitled "Where Do We Go From Here?". The idea was a brilliant one: Assegued summoned a hand-picked team of contemporary visual artists, architects, art historians and curators from all over the world to discuss the ways in which art is currently used worldwide and can be implemented to make and inspire bold social commentary on particularly significant and charged issues with a focus on the environment, the manner in which it has been/is being destroyed, and what can be done to encourage sustainability in order to "reverse the curse". The www.zcac.net website is a great resource for getting a broader idea of the ongoing mission and the various publications that are in production as a result of this symposium we attended and took part in.

Upon our arrival in Addis Ababa, we almost immediately boarded a regional flight to Dire Dawa, a slightly smaller, 'sleepier' city with its own rich history, having been a resort/vacation attraction town and thriving metropolis in its heyday. It is a comfortable, comparably quiet and peaceful place to spend time in and explore from the backseat of a tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled, open-air motor scooter cab, extraordinarily easy to hail and wonderfully inexpensive way to travel, say from a filling traditional dinner at a nearby restaurant to one's hotel. But the climate in Ethiopia is so agreeable, one may often find themselves more interested in taking to the streets on foot; in the day, the temperature reaches between 75 and 82 degrees F - no more and no less - with it dropping down to anywhere between 40 and 50 degrees at night. However, this is the landlocked horn of Africa, and while not stifling with humidity, it is very dry, so carrying several bottles of water during day trips is a must. And because water, fresh spring water in particular, is at such a premium, it is very common for people and young children to 'pan handle' for your bottled water, so it is recommended that you carry at least one extra bottle; when they do ask, give and give generously (more often than not, they will be sharing it with several other people and family members.

Once in Dire Dawa, we embarked on two separate day excursions to the rural village of Harla, the site for ZCAC's most recent development in sustainable ancestral architecture, an artist compound, museum, and community center to be used at intervals for artist's long-stay internships but left as a timeless and vital resource for the townspeople. Nestled between mountain ranges, Harla is a terraced farming village made up of families of goat herders, bead makers and artisans, farmers and construction workers who create and sun-bake the traditional mud bricks. The people there are incredibly kind, giving and curious, with children often wishing to practice the English they've learned in the town's only school.

After just a few days in Dire Dawa, the entire group traveled by chartered vans to Harar for a home-stay experience and brainstorming retreat in what is termed a 'typical' Harare home. Its walls adorned with baskets and dishes of brilliant colors and specific origins and meanings; each level and area of the open common room is a sleeping nook, each nook is reserved for a different member of the family hierarchy from the grandparents/in-laws to the sons and daughters and occasional visitors. Harar and the in-laid province town of Jogol are magnificent to say the least; vibrant marketplaces, a great deal less crowded and aggressive as compared to those in the capitol of Addis, and home to some of the most amazing and best-kept-secret museums I think Ethiopia has to offer, particularly the former palace of His Imperial Majesty, Haile Selassie I, a breathtaking, picturesque location in and of itself but also home to the Harare Cultural Museum, teeming with art and artifacts and the nearby Arthur Rimbaud House, the French artist's former home now kept as a museum and community center. It is also here in Harar where visitors can take part in an exciting, albeit unusual pastime, the feeding of the hyenas.

In Jogol, there is an elderly man who has served as 'guardian' of the hyenas for nearly his entire life. Having taken up this post from his father before him, he goes to the same place each night as the sun is setting, just outside of the gates of his small village. Taking with him a great basket of raw meat cuttings, he and all who watch and wait are soon joined by a throng of wild hyenas, at times as few as 5 and as many as 40. It is very important to say these hyenas are not in any way domesticated and do not belong to this family/community, but they have a sort of 'understanding between them. Seated in the dust, he feeds them from his own hand when they approach and any who wish to experience it can do so as well..but with a special feeding stick provided; with these very wild predatory animals unaccustomed to strangers, it is best to keep a bit of distance between their mouths and one's hands no matter how relaxed and tame they appear to be with the guardian.

I should mention that if traveling to different areas of Ethiopia, travelers should be mindful of the three predominant ethnic groups present in the country, the Amharas, the Oromos and the Tigres. The language of Amharic, for example, is spoken nearly everywhere in the country and especially in Addis Ababa, however in Harar the traditional and pervasive language is Oromia, farther south Tigrinye is spoken, so carrying several phrasebooks and/or one book with several translations is a great idea.

We were not long in Harar and after just two days, we were back in Addis Ababa for our last week of our trip. Unlike our small town experiences, Addis is a rather enormous, thriving, sometimes claustrophobic place (but in the best ways possible)! Again, there are countless museums and historic landmarks to explore. Much like my hometown of Washington, D.C., aptly placed statues are the focal points of the numerous roundabouts (traffic circles) honoring different political leaders and heroes of the brutal takeover attempts on the part of Europeans, most notably/memorably Italian dictator Benito Mussolini. Marketplaces, especially at the foot of the Entoto Mountain and the Merkato, a former Italian-occupation neighborhood, are unmatched in their offerings - textiles and clothing, exquisite jewelry of pure gold and silver, books, hand-carved statues, fresh-picked fruits; they are simply incredible places to 'get lost' in..and practice bargaining in Amharic!
Addis is the place where one can enjoy a true nightlife experience, going out for dinner and dancing - eskiste (pronounced skis-STAH) or shoulder dancing is some of the best fun to be had, whether just watching the professionals in their mastery of it or jumping up and trying it for yourself. Usually there are performers at nearly every restaurant, dancing or singing, so live entertainment over dinner is commonplace. Dinners - most meals, for that matter - are shared in the traditional family-style one experiences at an Ethiopian restaurant in the States. Mounds of injera bread are served alongside a large round platter filled with various dishes of vegetable stews, yellow and red lentils, chicken, and lamb. The unmistakable draw and enjoyment of the food is not only in the incredible, complex, and rich flavors, it is absolutely in the freshness and quality of the product (my sister and I happily noticed within our first few days that our clothes were looser and certainly NOT for lack of eating!). Fruits, vegetables, and meats are all organic as opposed to in our country where often the origins are suspect; even a glass of orange juice at breakfast time in every restaurant is fresh-squeezed upon ordering, each fruit taken from a basket that has just been harvested that day..and it tastes that way with every sip! One of my favorites was a concoction called sprice juice, a layered smoothie of juiced oranges, mangoes, strawberries, papayas and avocados. And a cultural event within itself, the taking in of a coffee ceremony, is an experience not to be missed. Coffee is its own religion in Ethiopia with the utmost care being paid in every step of the process. It is not to be hurried or downed quickly once poured but quite literally, a sort of dance, with the roasting of beans, billowing of coal fires beneath the pot, or bunna, and calming enjoyment of the final product. The preparers take great pride in the process and presentation, so unlike the snatch-and-grab experience at the coffee pot at work, this is a time to relax, socialize, and tip well!

I have done my best to squeeze two weeks of travel into a summary that I hope is not too long or overwhelming, but I had to make sure my descriptions did justice to my life-changing experience. I say without restraint that Ethiopia is one of my favorite places on this earth and I cannot wait to go back; there is a time of year called the Meskel Season wherein the many mountain ranges are positively luminescent with the brilliant yellow color of the Meskel flower that blooms at the beginning of the rainy season. As an avid hiker, I anxiously await an opportunity to go back and take to those brightly-colored hills and relive some of these wonderful experiences.

Juna Wallace, presented to The Traveling Eye.

Juna and Zoma, On behalf of The Traveling Eye and our audience, hank you for sharing your personal story with us. I t was truly a pleasure having you on our show and seeing Ethiopia through your eyes.

Sincerely,
Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The traveling Eye
Owner, Advantage International, LLC

The End of Prohibition Event in Chicago

2011-06-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

I had a blast at the End of Prohibition event last night. The event was at the Red Canary. I love their patio. There was something going on every where. Free massages, mani/pedi's, hair, period dresses & hats and Gambling. Not with real money but it was fun all the same and the only way I would gamble. For the first time I played craps. I always saw it in the movies and it looked like such fun and it is. There's a comradiere. Last night was my lucky night. I had just told my husband that numerology says that my lucky number is 5, I bet 5 and it hit through the night. I then said let's switch it up and play August (8) my birth month and wouldn't you know it, they started rolling 8's. 5's & 8"s were rolled all night long.

That's me in the hat!

My Family Getaway to Las Vegas!

2011-06-16T19:21:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I just got back from a family getaway! My cousins and I decided that we wanted to plan a quick getaway to spend some time together. A few of my relatives have small children so we had to pick a destination where several generations would be able to enjoy themselves. We ranged from ages12 and under, to 16-20, to 21-29, to 38-45, all the way to 50 – 80. Where could we go that wouldn’t cost a lot of money, excite everyone, and do it all in 4 days/3 nights.

Las Vegas!!!!

We called up Ja’Vonne at Advantage International and she put together a great package for us. Of the hotels she offered us, we decided on Circus Circus because it catered to children and families. I have been to Vegas many times and had never stayed at this hotel but I have had friends who raved about it. I must say that it is a very busy hotel.

As the group leader I went into Vegas a couple of days early to make sure everything was set up and ready for the group. The check in process was crazy. The line wrapped around the rope twice. It moved at a decent pace but I definitely needed my patience cap on. Once I made it to the registration desk things went smoothly. I want to stop here to commend the front desk and sales staff at Circus Circus. When traveling with a group that is checking in at different times, it can be a nightmare if things aren’t set up properly. My group was arriving at times from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM throughout the day. A small mix up had everyone checking as a group at 3 PM. I went to the front desk and spoke with a wonderful woman named Cynthia “CJ”. I explained the situation I was having with my cousin who had just arrived at 8: 30 AM and was told she couldn’t check in until the group Check In at 3PM. CJ calmly went and placed a call to the Sales Representative on duty, who was equally nice and understanding. We worked it out, everyone stayed calm and jovial and all was taken care of. The Bell and Valet staff and the ladies and gentlemen in the Buffet were also helpful and very nice and greeted us with smiles. They really made us feel welcomed.

Circus Circus gave us an awesome coupon booklet when we checked in that had great values on food, rides, shows and shopping. The food and atmosphere in The Steak House was good. And we did see several brides with their grooms walking through the hotel.

Circus Circus does have one major problem and that is their housekeeping staff. Example:

I checked into my room and my sink was slow in draining, I needed more towels and pillows. I make it a habit to tip my housekeeper every day to make sure the person who is actually cleaning my room receives the tip. I left a tip and a note of what I needed and when I came back to the room the tip was gone, a towel was lying on the floor by the toilet and one was lying inside the bathtub. That was my first call down to speak with the housekeeping supervisor. Several of my family members had inexcusable problems that were directly due to the housekeeping staff.

Circus Circus is an old property and is in need of some serious renovating. In 1968, before it was a casino and resort, it was a permanent big top circus. It is the first hotel on the Strip to actively seek family trade. There are even free circus acts under the tent above the main casino. However, now the casino floor is dark and dingy and there isn’t a nice bar or lounge in the casino area to sit and talk or listen to good music.

In order to get to the pool from the West Tower, inside of the hotel, you must go to the Skyrise Tower, take an elevator up to the third floor, walk through a hallway on a floor with sleeping rooms, go through two doors, and take another elevator down to the pool. It is only open from 9 AM to 7 PM. However, once we got there we had a great time having fun in the sun.

The Adventurdome Theme Park is a fully enclosed, climate controlled amusement park that is covered by a huge pink dome. It covers five acres and has rides and games for every age in the family. Our kids had a great time and enjoying their freedom to play and ride the rides.

The just over 21's loved being able to play the slots and learn the table games "cause they are grown". Those of us who are a little older got a big kick out watching the family bond, laugh and tell old stories.

We discovered the Las Vegas Citizens Area Transit System (the local bus). $7 will get you a 24 hour day pass to ride the bus up and down the strip and downtown. What a bargain!

We even ran in to Brad Garrett from the TV show "Everyone Loves Raymond" at the House of Blues Gospel Brunch at the Mandalay Bay! That's my niece Lisa in the picture with him. He really is tall.

My family had a great time getting together in Las Vegas and are looking forward to our next getaway. And even though Circus Circus may not be a resort that I would stay in again, it may be a good fit for families who are looking for an economical, fun filled stay in Las Vegas.

Until next time, keep your Eye to the sky!

Bonnie DeShong

Cape Town

2011-05-12T00:25:00.000-07:00

It's been about 5 years since I've been to Cape Town and boy, have things changed. The last time I was here was a few years before World Cup. Cape Town is as beautiful now as it was then but now has many more hotels, new restaurants and night spots. some of the old favorites are here like Marcos, a restaurant with South African cuisine and live South African music. But now there's African Gold Museum and Restaurant. The museum is small and displays some beautiful African gold pieces from around the continent. You get a guided tour of the museum, then a drumming session followed by dinner (South African cuisine from a preset menu) and finally live entertainment. Not a band but singers, drummers and dancers. I'm still exploring and checking out some of the new hotels and restaurants so keep following me for the scoop.

Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling eye

Deep Vein Thrombosis

2011-05-05T12:33:00.000-07:00

Serena Williams recently suffered an embolism. It was brought on by several things; inactivity, surgery and a long flight. Her ankle swelled to an abnormal size, she ignored it and thought she could just ice it down when she got home but when her flight landed she was having difficulty walking and breathing. Fortunately, she spoke to big sis Venus who was with their trainer and was urged to go to the hospital. She did not heed this warning but the trainer later showed up at her home and insisted she go to the hospital. It was then she discovered she had an embolism and could have died it she had not gotten treatment.

Embolism's can be caused by Deep Vein Thrombosis, the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in a calf or thigh muscle. DVT can partly or completely block blood flow, causing chronic pain and swelling. It may damage valves in blood vessels, making it difficult for you to get around. A blood clot can also break free and travel through your blood to major organs, such as your lungs or heart. There, it can cause damage and even death within hours.
Here is where travel comes in. DVT can develop while on a long flight because of immobility and the other factors. If you're on a long flight make sure you move during the flight. Take a walk up and down the aisle every 2 - 3 hours. While seated do some leg exercises like leg raises, make circles with your feet at the ankle and point and flex your feet. If you've recently had surgery consult with your doctor on your flight to see if it is safe for you to travel and to get advise on what to do for proper blood circulation.

Symptoms:

Half of all DVT cases cause no symptoms. If you do have any of the DVT symptoms below -- especially if they occur suddenly -- call your doctor right away:

•Swelling in one or both legs

•Pain or tenderness in one or both legs, which may occur only while standing or walking

•Warmth in the skin of the affected leg

•Red or discolored skin in the affected leg

•Visible surface veins

•Leg fatigue

Take these precautions and don;t ignore any of the symptoms.

Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye, www.thetravelingeye.com
Owner, Advantage International, www.advantage-intl.com

Mini-Sabbatical

2011-04-26T10:44:00.001-07:00

When we need rest or time off we think we can only accomplish that with a lot of time or money. The result of this thinking is it never happens! Using the same principle as napping a mini sabbatical or just one day off can give you much needed rejuvenation. Choose a place within driving distance to cut the time, cost and stress of travel. Downtown areas are great because hotels that normally cater to business travelers during the week often have great weekend specials & they have all the creature comforts at your disposal. Another choice could be a local bed and breakfast. They’re small, charming and are usually in quiet neighborhoods. Find a nice quiet place in your town to spend some time, like a botanical garden or labryinth. Remember the purpose of your mini-sabbatical and cut off the cell phone, leave the laptop behind and put out the DO NOT DISTURB message. No matter how you spend it a mini sabbatical can give you that much needed boost or rest you’re looking for.

Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye

FASTEN THAT SEAT BELT!

2011-04-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

I know it's uncomfortable but it is extremely important to follow the captains announcement and fasten your seatbelt when requested or better yet, keep your seat belt fastened at all times when you are seated, especially when you are sleeping. Turbulence casued by what's called (CAT) Clear Air Turbulence, air movement that usually cannot be seen, can happen on a clear day and without warning, varies from mild to extreme intensities including an air pocket causing the aircraft to drop hundreds of feet and can make for a bumpy if not scary ride. CAT is created by a number of different conditions like air moving at different speeds meeting or different air temperatures meeting. In flight turbulence is the leading cause of passenger and crew injuries and one thing to remember is that most of those who are injured were not wearing their seatbelt.

EYE Ate My Way Through Montreal!

2011-04-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Recently The Traveling Eye visited Montreal, Canada. Ja'Vonne and I had a wonderful time getting to know this beautiful city.

Those of you who have followed our travels know that we are big time "foodies". My theory is, “To get to know the real spirit of a city, you must taste the cuisine." Okay, it may be a weak theory but it is my excuse to eat my way through a city without guilt.

Montreal did not disappoint in the art of cuisine.

Bonnie, Chef Jean-Francois Plante, Ja'Vonne

Our first taste of Montreal began within our hotel, Le St-Martin Hotel Particulier Downtown located at 980 De Maisonneuve Blvd. West. Celebrated Chef Jean-Francois Plante's The Bistro L'Aromate is the hotel's signature restaurant and is positioned on the main floor of the hotel with additional dining on the Mezzanine. The decor gave me a feeling of fine dining in a very relaxed atmosphere. Diners are not rushed through their meal so one can sit and enjoy the flavors of the food, wine and conversation, leaving the dining experience fulfilled. The dishes were wonderful and seasoned well. From the appetizer,(I had the scallops which were absolutely delicious), to the entree,

Salmon with Mango Salsa

(my salmon with the mango salsa was divine), to the dessert,(it was so good and decadent), my mouth was singing the happy song from all the wonderful flavors that were dancing on my tongue. Breakfast the next morning was just as good. Our visit to Montreal had started off on the right foot.

When friends found out we were going to be visiting Montreal we were told we must try the dish of Montreal called Poutine. Poutine was created in 1957 in Quebec and means "Mushy Mess" and I would have to agree that it is a great description. The dish is a plate of fresh French cut potato's, deep fried in lard with cheddar cheese curds sprinkled on top and covered with a brown gravy. It sounds like and probably is a heart attack on a plate but it is so good. We experienced this Canadian "Soul Food" at an restaurant called La Banquise. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and has a menu of 22 different types of Poutine. Howard, our videographer from Video Twist Productions,

Elvis Poutine

and I had the Elvis Poutine which has ground beef, mushrooms and green peppers added to the fries, cheese curds and gravy. Ja'Vonne had the Bacon Poutine. Everything is good with bacon. Even though every thing tasted great, Ja'Vonne and I couldn't get through half of our plate, however, Howard had no problem at all being a member of the "clean plate club". The price for the dish is a reasonable $5.00 for a small plate and $8.00 for a large. After a long night of partying in Montreal, La Banquise is the place to go to "soak up" some of that fun.

Ja'Vonne and I love fresh produce markets and there is an awesome one in Montreal. To be honest I am not sure if Premiere Moisson Boulangerie is the name of the market or a store within but either way it is a great place to be. The smell of fresh bread whiffs from the bakery, while you pass stalls and stalls of colorful fresh fruits and vegetables. You will even find cheese curds in case you want to make your own poutine. We stopped at one stall where a woman was making maple pops from fresh maple syrup. She heats the syrup and then pours strips of syrup on ice. She then takes a Popsicle stick and rolls the maple syrup on it. It is so good but the key is to put the whole syrup pop in your mouth or it will get all over you. Just ask Ja'Vonne.

Ja'Vonne and the Maple Pop

Making Maple Pops

When we landed in Montreal our driver told us we could not leave the city without trying a Smoked Meat Sandwich from Schwartz's. It took us a few days but we finally made it over to Schwartz's to see what was so great about this sandwich. When we pulled up to the building there was a line outside the door and down the block. It is a small Deli with sit down seating but the line moves fast and it is really worth the wait. A smoked meat sandwich is like our corned beef sandwich only sliced a little thicker. We each ordered a sandwich, pickles and a plate of fries. I don't know what it is about fries in Montreal but they are so tasty. The sandwich is well seasoned, moist and very good. We understood why Schwartz's was the place to go for this great tasting signature sandwich of Montreal.

Smoked Meat Sandwich

We had a wonderful culinary experience by eating some different foods in fun places while gaining 5 pounds in the process. EYE thoroughly enjoyed eating my way through the great city of Montreal.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie DeShong

Travel Warnings and Alerts! When to Travel?

2011-04-01T06:52:00.000-07:00

Today on our show we are talking about Travel Warnings and Alerts. What are they?, How they impact your travels or better yet, your decision to travel.

From the State Department http://www.travel.state.gov/
Travel Warnings are issued when long-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable lead the State Department to recommend that Americans avoid or consider the risk of travel to that country. A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government's ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff. The countries listed below meet those criteria.

Travel Alerts are issued to disseminate information about short-term conditions, either transnational or within a particular country, that pose significant risks to the security of U.S. citizens. Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, coups, anniversaries of terrorist events, election-related demonstrations or violence, and high-profile events such as international conferences or regional sports events are examples of conditions that might generate a Travel Alert.

If you decide to travel:

Stay up to date with the warnings, alerts and the situation at the destinations
Assess the danger. How safe is it for your to move around?
Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program found on http://www.travel.state.gov/
Know how to get in contact with US officials and how to seek assistance
Have an emergency plan for the destination and have a person at home ready to assist you
Keep enough money with you at all times for transportation home
Keep your passport with you at all times in case you need to leave in a hurry

Cancellations, what are you entitled to:

This will vary by situation and company
If your flights and accommodations are cancelled you should be entitled to a full refund
If your flights and accommodations are not canceled involuntarily you have to go with the companies policy
Check your travelers insurance policy

Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye
Owner, Advantage International, LLC

Le St. Martin Hotel Particulier Downtown Montreal

2011-03-18T15:57:00.000-07:00

The Traveling Eye is here in Montreal, staying at the Le St. Martin Hotel Particulier Downtown. I know it's a long name but there is a meaning behind the name. Particulier is a term from France that was applied to upscale bed and breakfasts whereby the service was homey yet exceptional. Le St. Martin is a small hotel that has strayed away from the term "boutique" hotel because it's not about the size rather about the service. When you return you always feel like you're returning home. From the reception desk to housekeeping the staff serve you with a smile. The minibar is an honor system and it's up to you to advise the front desk of what you've consumed. There's a snack bar that is unattended and is also on the honor system. The snack bar is on the lobby level right next to reception and is stocked with soft drinks, coffee, snacks and biscotti's. If you need a lap top they will loan you one and the wi-fi is free. Bistro L'Aromate, the restaurant is a quaint place with a big menu. French bistro cuisine at it's best. Celebrity chef Jean-Francois Plante has put together a fabulous menu of upscale bistro fare. The Veal Cheek Bourguignon is fork tender and the roasted vegetable terrine with goat cheese.......hmmmm. I have to say he is also a good looking man and is there most evenings. I know why this bistro is fast becoming a local favorite.

The style of the hotel is modern with an old fashion elegance. Every room has a view and fire place. Not with real fire but the ambiance makes it OK. The pool is open year round and is heated to 110 in the winter. All rooms are equipped with flat screens and docking stations.

The Le St. Martin Hotel Partiulier is a fantastic affordable property. Love love love it!

Ja'Vonne Harley, your concierge to the world

Abu Dhabi & Dubai's Opulence

2011-03-10T06:05:00.000-08:00

Visiting Abu Dhabi, one of the seven Emirates and the capital of UAE is opulence at its best. They discovered oil in 1968 but were not able to maintain its wealth due to bad business deals with foreigners. However, it did not take long before they realized what needed to be done. They set out to educate their people and create working relationships all the while keeping the wealth and flow of money in Abu Dhabi.

Our first stop is the Sheik Mohammed Mosque. A beautiful white mosque that has been nick named the White Pearl of the East. Barring the age of the Taj Mahal this is the most impressive mosque I've ever seen. Marble from around the world, inlaid gems, gold plating, 82 domes, 4 minarets and at a running cost of two billion Durhams beauty at its best. All women are required to change into abayas, the long black dress and scarf fo covering your head, to enter the mosque. This is part of the experience.

We then proceeded to the Emirates Palace Hotel, a Kempinski property. Built to look like the royal palace this is an exclusive hotel. Celebrities, dignitaries and world leaders stay here. We toured the property and gtook pictures of the famous Gold vending machine. By the way this hotel is also known for that 11 million dollar Christmas tree with gold and precious gems for ornaments. We had a fabulous buffet lunch here at the Le Vendome restaurant. We all indulged ourselves with this lavish buffet.

Afterwards and on our way back to Dubai we made a quick stop at Ferrari World. We did not enter the amusement park itself but we were able to get a glimpse of the fastest rollercoaster and purchase some souvineirs.

In Dubai the next day we had tea at the Burj Al Arab. The only 7 star hotel in the world. The one that looks like a sailboat, has the helipad where Andre Agassi & Pete Sampras played tennis, tiger woods hit a few golf balls and of course where the guests land via helicopter. The tea service was a two hour service that includes one glass of champagne, any soft drinks, tea, coffee, finger sandwiches, pastries, scones and cookies. The passion fruit iced tea is awesome, afterall it's prepared at the world famous bar at the Burj Al Arab that created the 10 thousand dollar cocktail.

Both properties are off limits unless you are a guest or have business there. So unless you have a hotel, lunch or dinner reservation you're not able to visit either property.

A trip would not be complete without visiting at least one of them and at least pretending to be among the rich and/or famous.

Tonight, our last night, some of us are going to the Usher concert. I know....Only In Dubai!

Dubai

2011-03-09T04:45:00.000-08:00

Arriving in Dubai was a huge difference from arriving in Egypt. Already you can feel the different vide of the city. Here it's more conservative and stand offish. Airport officials are in long crisp white robes and head dresses. Not so many smiles. As we exit the airport our local guide is ready to greet us, a South African woman of Indian descent. Eighty percent of the residence here are foreigners. I'll tell you about that later.

Our first day is a day of leisure and most of the group take the metro to the Dubai Mall, which has over 1000 stores and a watershow that puts the Bellagio's to shame.

Burj Khalifa, the tallest building
in the world.

We start our touring on the 6th with a city orientation tour that is about the architecture and the fast growth of Dubai. We visit the Palm Island which is the home of the Atlantis Hotel. The Palm Island started with many investors and very high property value but after the global economic melt down prices were cut in half. Still very expensive by any standard the original buyers have seen a lost. We enter from the base and trunk of the Palm and the branches or leaves are the residences.

At one point Dubai has 2/3's of the worlds cranes and now the cranes are gone, there are shells of buildings that were abandoned mid construction but the opulence is still around. We also go to the Dubai Museum. It's interesting to see how the lives of the people of Dubai have drastically changed ove the years after the discovery of oil. People had a very simple life and Dubia was just a dessert.

Charlotte on the Dhow
It's her birthday!

We finish with a cruise along the harbor on a Dhow. A traditional wooden fishing boat. It's a typical evening dinner cruise. However, six months prior to our arrival they stopped serving alcohol and lowered the volume of the music. Outside of the views from the harbor this is just OK.

The Nile and Nubia

2011-03-06T04:08:00.000-08:00

Nubian boy in Aswan

As we sail south along the Nile River the complexion changes. We are heading to Aswan and the Nubian people. Nubia or Nuba is an ancient Arabic word for Gold so Nubia was the land of Gold. Originally Sudan was part of Egypt. To give your a geographical reference, Aswan is very close to the Sudan and even closer is Abu Simbel. The coast that lines the Nile River on both sides is dotted with tombs and temples from the Pharoac period thousands of years before christ, most of which are the oldest but are not in good condition.

Headmaster at Nubian Village

We visit one of the oldest Nubian Villages, Gharbsuhel, that is still in its original location and did not have to move because of the Aswan Dam as most Nubian Villages did. This is the first time I've gone so far along the Nile River to a Nubian Village, thanks to our guide and Egyptologist Mostafa Hasaan. This is the most beautifil pat of the Nile with narrow passages passing the botanical gardens, other villages, some of the best rock and plant formations along the way. This is very much like a santuary.

In the village school is out but we became the students as the head master gives us a lesson on Arabic and Nubain ABC's and 123's. We were very good students and eager to learn as we each wrote our name on the board in Arabic.

The Nubian people should be revered for their sacifice for the greater good of the country. They gave up their land and agreed to be relocated so that Egypt could build the Aswan Dam and harvest water that saved Egypt from the drought that has so drastically affected other countries.

Finishing our Nile Rive Cruise we have lunch in Aswan at a Nubian restaurant, Dokka and have a Nubian Tangine. Tangine is clay pot cooking of meats like chicken, beef and fish in a tomato sauce. It's then served with rice, bread, babaganoush, salad and tahini (sesame seed paste). After lunch we head to the Temple of Philae. Philae was also moved to higher ground and is surrounded water. After touring the Temple with it's Greek and Roman symbles and graffitti left behind by Napolean we sit along the water at the outdoo cafe fo coffee and watch the sun as it begins to set.

It's hard to leave Egypt. This is a special time to be here. Arriving in Cairo just two weeks after Mubarak stepped down giving the people victory for change was electric. We felt like we were part of the process just being there. Finishing with a Nile Rive cruise to a slower paced vacation on an all-suite ship, the Sonesta Star Goddess. Entering the empty airport in Aswan. All flights but one were canceled and all the groups and individuals we met along the way were on the same flight. We're already reminesces about our journey and experiences.

Ou next stop is Dubai, UAE, same language, same religion, a short 3.5 hour flight but we know will be worlds apart from Egypt.

See you in Dubai!

Me and Egyptian @ Hatsheput's Temple

Mosque along the Nile in Aswan

The New Egypt

2011-03-03T08:22:00.000-08:00

We’ve left Cairo and are now on board the Sonesta Star Goddess, an all-suite ship, for a four-night Nile River cruise. When we left our hotel in Cairo at 5:30am on Monday, the streets were empty due to the curfew that is in effect from midnight to 6am.

The Cairo airport is not the hectic scene it usually is with thousands of tourists flying home or to other parts of Egypt. Instead, there are mostly business travelers and few tourists. Our flight to Luxor was mostly full but again with few tourists and mostly business travelers. Those business travelers are happy to see us here; many have thanked us for coming and asked that we spread the word that it is safe to come to Egypt.

Upon arrival in Luxor we immediately notice the change in pace. Luxor is usually a much slower pace than Cairo but this time it is even more so. While there are markedly more tourist here there aren’t nearly as many as there would normally be. Luxor is located in Upper Egypt and is considered the countryside. You’ll see many farmers and donkey drawn carts with produce, men dressed in Galabeya’s with turban wrapped heads. The roads are lined with palm trees and the traffic is reduced to two lanes. This small unassuming place is the home to some of the most impressive ancient sites. The Arabic word Luxor means “The Palaces” and it was the capital of Ancient Egypt.

We head straight to the Karnak Temple, the largest complex in the world. This open-air museum makes ancient Egypt come to life with statues of Ramsey II, Tutankhamen, Amenhotep III and the road of Sphinx. Walking through Karnak gives you the sense of the life then. We’re talking about an area covering over 100 acres. Immediately following the Karnak temple we head to the Luxor Temple. Smaller in size, the Luxor Temple is the ancient city of Thebes.

On our second day in Luxor before the ship sets sail we visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, the Valley of the Kings and Valley of Queens.

I am fascinated with Hatshepsut’s story and her temple is a site to see. Hatshepsut was the most powerful female Pharaoh that ever ruled. She ruled with finesse but make no mistake about it she was tough. Her temples architecture surpassed any that had been built before it. Hatshepsut’s husband was sickly and died at an early age giving her cause to reign. She was succeeded by her step and it is unclear how she died or if he overthrew her. He did however erase her name from her temple keeping the statues but replacing the cartouches with his name. One odd thing that was discovered was the tomb of her architect, which was near Hatshepsut's Temple and is very uncommon. Even more surprising was a connection from her tomb to his and some graffiti that depicted a love affair with Hatshepsut and her architect. Finally, her sarcophagus was found in the nannies tomb. Was this a sign of disrespect? Was she hidden for protection or was it simply misplaced by archeologists?
The Valley of the Kings is a place where kings and other royals were buried. Numerous chambers are underground and used to house the sarcophagi and worldly possessions of the kings. Cameras are no longer allowed. The Valley of the Queens is where the queens and others were buried. Most of the tombs found here are in poor condition and cannot be seen by tourists. Nefertari’s tomb is here and is one that can be seen. It’s small but boasts brilliant colors. Hatshepsut’s tomb is not here. He tomb is near her temple. You can also find tombs of prince’s in The Valley of the Queens.
I know most people come to Egypt for the Pyramids of Giza, but the most impressive for me is Luxor and it’s temples and tombs. The walls, temples and tombs tell a much greater story for me.

I prefer the four-night Nile River cruise that starts in Luxor and sails to Aswan rather than the three-night Nile Rive cruise that starts in Aswan and sails to Luxor. On the four-night cruise you can break up the tours of Luxor into two half-day tours instead of cramming them into one full day tour before heading to the airport.
We’re finished touring for the day and our ship has set sail.
Tune in for our next adventure as we sail along the Nile River.

Ja'Vonne Harley

African-Americans Break Aviation Barrier

2011-02-27T16:42:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Do you ever think that daily , without hesitation, we jump on planes, watch the flight attendants go through their routine of showing us where the exit signs are and listen to the pilot as he or she tells us that we are flying at 30 thousand feet, that there was a time when these jobs weren't open to people of color? Today, no matter what race or nationality these people are, we take it for granted that they are qualified in their jobs to get us safely from from point A to point B.

There was a time when Black Americans, no matter their expertise or qualifications, were not allowed to fly planes for or serve passengers on a major airline.

Today, I am proud to introduce you to a few people who took to the skies, broke color barriers and made history.

Fasten your seat belts, it is going to be a smooth and enlightening ride.

Welcome to the first leg of our trip aboard the American Airlines flight through history. Our pilot is Captain David Harris, the first African American Pilot to be hired by a major airline. Captain Harris was born in 1934 in Columbus, Ohio. He is a graduate of Ohio State University and joined the Air Force where he graduated from advanced flight training in 1958. He began flying Boeing B-47 Stratojets and then B-52's. He left the Air Force in 1964 and applied for a pilot's position at American Airlines. Captain Harris hassaid that so many of the Tuskegee Airmen came before him but were discriminated against because the nation wasn't ready to have African-American pilots. He came along at the right time with the right stuff to break the barrier. Captain David Harris retired from American Airlines in 1994 after flying for the airline for 30 years. (Thanks to D.R. Stewart of the Tulsa World Harold)

The second leg of our trip will be on Mohawk Airlines where Ruth Carol Taylor, the first African-American Stewardess in the United States, will be serving us. Racial Desegregation in December of1957, caused Mohawk Airlines to hire Ms. Taylor. Sadly, Ms. Taylor's career as a Stewardess ended six months after it began when she became a married women. Airlines would not allow any woman who was married or became pregnant to be a stewardess. Regardless of this discriminatory practice, Ruth Carol Taylor made history.

Gather your things, we must hurry to catch a United Airlines flight where Captain William R. Norwood will be piloting a 747 through history. Captain Norwood is the first African American Pilot hired by United Airlines and the first African American to achieve the rank of captain at the airline. Captain Norwood was born and raised in Centralia, Illinois and graduated from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois. A man of firsts, he was the first black quarterback on SIU's football team. He was inspired while in school by a teacher who was member of the Tuskegee Airmen Black fighter squadron. Captain Norwood began flying in ROTC at SIU before flying B-52's for the Strategic Air Command in the U.S. Air Force for six years. When he left the service he applied at both American Airlines and United, and because his family had flown on United and enjoyed the service on the flights, he took the job as a pilot for United Airlines. He retired in 1996 after thirty years of service. In the grand hall of the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago hangs a United Airlines plane with the name Captain William R. Norwood under the pilot window.

We are almost at the end of our trip and we have one more short flight to catch on Atlantic Southwest Airlines. Flight Attendant (they aren't called Stewardess anymore) Diana Galloway greets us as we enter the plane, while Robin Rogers makes sure our bags are stored properly. 4-Captain Rachelle Jones and First Officer Stephanie Grant are preparing the cockpit. Have you realized it yet? This flight is staffed by an all female, African American flight crew. In 2009, these four women didn't know that flight 5202 from Atlanta to Nashville would make history.

As we cruise along on this final leg and gaze out of the window we must remember the ones that flew through these clouds leaving a jet stream so that the aviators we just spoke about could move forward on their path.

Pilot Bessie Coleman was the first African American to earn an international pilot's license. She flew planes and performed stunts at air shows despite the racism. In 1920 Ms. Coleman was living in Chicago and had decided she wanted to be a pilot. She found a sponsor in Robert Abbott, founder and publisher of the Chicago Defender. There weren't any African American pilots in the area and the white pilots wouldn't teach her. Mr. Abbott told her to go to France to learn. The French weren't racists and were the world leaders in aviation, so off she went. On June 15, 1921, she completed training and was awarded her Federation Aeronautique Internationale pilot's license . She flew all over Europe performing in air shows and came back to the U.S. in 1922. Ms. Coleman founded an aviation school for all races and was affectionately called "Queen Bess". Pilot Bessie Coleman was killed in a plane accident on April 30, 1926, and is buried at Lincoln Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois. She is recognized as a hero of early aviation.

The Tuskegee Airmen were young black men who came from all over the country to enlist in the U.S. Air Force to become the first black military airmen. These men wanted to serve their country during World War II. Some were trained to fly single -engine planes and later they became twin-engine pilots, navigators or bombardiers. Even though people thought that black people lacked intelligence, courage, or skill, most of these men were college graduates or were still in undergraduate school. Others were required to take comprehensive entrance exams. All worked and trained as hard as any other airman. From 1941-1946, 996 pilots graduated from Tuskegee Army Air Field receiving commissions and pilot wings. Navigators, bombardiers and gunnery crews were trained at other military bases. Mechanics were trained at Chanute Air Force base in Rantoul, Illinois. The Tuskegee Airmen served overseas in either the 99th Pursuit Squadron or the 332nd Fight Group. They flew in combat in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. These airmen flew to protect their country only to land and have to fight racism. In 1945, when these honored men who fought proudly and effectively returned home from the war they were not allowed to obtain jobs as pilots for airlines. They did, however, inspire men and women to not give up and to work hard to break the barriers of racism in the skies.

Well, the Captain has told us to fasten our seat belts and prepare for landing. We have met some great people on this flight through history. The wheels touch the runway and as we depart the plane we say thank you to Bessie Coleman, The Tuskegee Airmen, Flight Attendant Ruth Carol Taylor, American Airline Captain David Harris, United Airline Captain William R. Norwood, and the history making all female flight crew of Atlantic Southwest Airline Flight 5202, and all the African American trailblazers in aviation for a safe flight back home.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie DeShong

Co-host of The Traveling Eye

In the New Egypt

2011-02-25T13:05:00.000-08:00

Good evening,

It's 11:00pm in Cairo, Egypt on Friday, Febuary 25th. I am with a group of 12 who decided to travel after majority of their group members decided other options. We started out with a group of 93. These 12 passengers wanted to travel to Egypt now, so I decided to travel with them. They, or I should say we are excited to be here. The feeling is electric and we have nick named ourselves the Marines ("the few, the proud....."). We flew via Frankfurt on Lufthansa Airlines on an A360 and while there were plenty of empty seats, our flight was fuller than we expected. When our flight landed, I it felt different than all the other times I've flown into Cairo. Quieter, not as hectic, I felt more noticed but in a good way. I received more smiles from guards and officers and I could feel their excitement that we choose to come.

We were first greeted by our ground company before we got to passport control. Greeted with Egyptian flags, flowers and a joyous welcome, it's apparent that Egypt wants tourists to return. We boarded our bus and headed to dinner at the Al Azhar, a park where families come to dine and spend time together. Everyone was extremely friendly. After our Egyptian Dinner of lentil soup, hummus, garlic yogurt, babaganoush, grilled shrimp, fried fish and oriental rice, we headed to our hotel, The Conrad Hilton. Oh, I have to tell you about the freshest mango juice. it tasted like they took a fully ripe mango or two and pureed it. After our long day of flights this was extemely refreshing. As we pulled up to the Conrad Hilton I was a little jarred by the lack of room lights. While I expected low occupancy, I've never seen Egypt like this, especially a hotel the size and caliber of the Conrad Hilton. it's usually bustling with business men and tourists. We pratically have the hotel to ourselves. Well, I'm calling it a night because I've been up and traveling since 7am central time from Chicago and it's now been a day and a half without rest and tommorrow we have an early start to a long day of touring starting with the Pyramids of Giza. Can't wait to see who else is there!

The Evolution of Cruising

2011-01-26T14:42:00.000-08:00

Last Friday on our show we had special guest, Ines Turus, President and CEO of Cruises International to talk about the evolution of cruising. The key points to the conversation were the following:

The new ships that launched in 2010 and are being launched in 2011 especially the mega ships where entertainment, food and cabins have been upgraded from the standard concept of the cruise experience from yesteryear.

Multiple dining options from buffet to high end
Freestyle cruising that's not regimented
Larger cabins and more categories
Elevated spa services and facilities

When to book?

Although there are some last minute deals out there it's best to book the moment you know you want to cruise and have set a date. Last minute deals are often for less desirable cabins and for those who are more flexible with dates and destinations.

Should you use a cruise agent or DIY?

Using a cruise agent can get you better deals, added value and information. Cruise agencies like Cruises International will often have group blocks of cabins that individuals can benefit from. Those benefits include discounted rates, cabin selections and availability that may otherwise be sold out, shipboard credits and other amenities.

How to select a cruise?

It's best to use a cruise agent if you don't know how to select a cruise. They can ask you the right questions on what you're looking for in a vacation experience and guide you to the ship & destinations rather than destination alone.

During my phone interview with Ines she shared with me that the best kept secret is river cruising. River cruising is a great alternative to contemporary cruising. These ships are smaller and offer different ports of call that the larger ships cannot get to.

Cruises International is hosting the Cruise & Vacation Expo on January 29 & 30. For more information http://www.cruisesinternational.cruiseshipcenters.com/

Ja'Vonne Harley
Host, The Traveling Eye http://www.thetravelingeye.com/

Travelers Ten Commandments

2011-01-13T15:58:00.000-08:00

Years ago one of my travelers gave me great information and advice in the form of Travelers Ten Commandments to share with the group. While this is written with group travel in mind it's a good credo for all travelers to live by.

Travelers Ten Commandments

(1) Thou shalt relax…relax…relax…and put thy trust in God and thy Tour Escorts.

(2) Thou shalt not take anything to seriously for a carefree attitude is the beginning of an enjoyable and relaxing vacation.

(3) Thou shalt not worry…he who worrieth hath no pleasure. (Few things are fatal)

(4) Thou shalt spend thy time and money while on this trip according to thine own decision, regardless of what others may or may not do.

(5) Thou shalt not permit other travelers to spoil thy trip for which thou hast paid lots of money to enjoy.

(6) Thou shalt be thankful for the privilege of traveling with this special group of special people…all of whom have left their personal problems, family problems, heath problems, past mistakes, past accomplishments, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera, at home.

(7) Thou shalt appreciate thy roommate and fellow travelers for his/her considerations and courtesies to you throughout this trip.

(8) Thou shalt appreciate thy roommate for not monopolizing the bathroom.

(9) Thou shalt be on time for group activities.

(10) Thou shalt remember we represent our God, our country, our state, our city, our family, our people and ourselves when traveling…as well as when we are home.

Ja'Vonne Harley

Protect our Historical Sites

2011-01-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

Last week our show was on Travel Trends for 2011 and while we’re looking at the year ahead we should also look at the years beyond. As I return to some of the same destinations and historical sites over the years, I’m seeing a rapidly changing environment. From carbon emissions to stupid and irresponsible tourists we’re destroying the very things we treasure and marvel. There are some ways you can give back to preserve these historical sites, make sure they’re around for generations to come and protect our planet. Offset your carbon footprints by donating to organizations like Go Zero, Find ways to use less paper like forgoing the printed boarding pass and downloading it to your cell phone, and be mindful of your actions and interactions when you travel and remember one of my favorite quotes…leave only footprints and take only memories when you travel.

Travel Trends for 2011

2011-01-06T16:01:00.000-08:00

After reflecting and sharing with you my top ten experiences in 2010 I started looking ahead to 2011. I have decided not to make a resolution rather I've pulled from news stories from the past year and read through my travel subscriptions to see what others had to say about what's to come in 2011. From all the materials I've reviewed and agreed with here's my pick for Travel Trends in 2011.

Destinations:
Old favorites are reemerging like Italy, Spain & Turkey; I chose these destinations because a lot of my clients are asking for them. They actually started asking in 2010 but for travel in 2011. I've also noticed a lot of activity from the tourist boards promoting to the US market. While these destinations have been favorites for the US market for a very long time, I'm noticing even those who've been before want to go again. For Italy, Tuscany is at the top of the list along with the Amalfi Coast and of course the food and wine. This may have to do with the movie Eat, Pray, Love. For Spain, Barcelona is still at the top of the list for its nightlife but Bilbao is getting some attention. I visited Bilbao a couple of years ago and fell in love with the city. It's small, easy to navigate and has a lot of local charm. The only down side is the limited selections of hotels in Bilbao. The plus is the food, shopping and the Guggenheim Museum! Turkey was also one of my favorite experiences for 2010 so if you read my earlier post you'll see what it's being talked about for 2011.

Another trend I'm seeing is small towns. Vacationers are looking for small town charm and local favorites as opposed to big cities.

Airlines:
Major airlines have already implemented a fare increase for domestic and international flights. With concern of rising fuel costs, limited inventory and the need for profit don't expect to see heavy discounts across the board. In my search for airfares for groups to the Caribbean & Europe I'm noticing significant increases over 2010 for the same destinations. For example from the US to Aruba over the same period last year is $100 - $400 more.

Fees:
Don't expect them to go away. I also don't expect to too many new ones. The government is looking into the matter of taxing fees as revenue and with the exception of pay toilets and overhead bins what's left, oh wait Spirit Airlines IS charging for overhead bins. LOL

Travel Currency (I learned this phrase from Travel & Leisure)
While the concept and knowledge of this is not new to me, the term is. If I'm late on this please excuse me. Airlines, hotels, car rental companies, credit card companies, etc. are all weighing in. These are points, bonuses and loyalty programs but it's not just for your the program you're a member of. You could literally earn and use points for added value on your vacation or travels. They're not just for upgrades anymore.

Group Coupon Programs
Last year I became a member of Groupon, Social Living and KGBdeals and have taken advantage of some fabulous deals in my home town of Chicago. I've also used them when I've traveled home to DC. These are great to use when you travel, especially for spa services and restaurants.

Overall, I am finding that Americans are more confident in traveling and are loosening the purse strings. The corporate contracts that were canceled or put on hold for me in 2009 & 2010 are planning for incentive trips in 2011 and promotional tours & festivals are showing early interest.
I hope you too look to travel in 2011! But before you do, check baggage fees as part of your fare comparison, take an assessment of your travel programs and loyalties for extra benefits, clip coupons and visit a small town to rub elbows with the locals, you'll find them more engaging.

Listen to www.thetravelingeye.com Friday, January 7, 2011 from 11am - Noon Central time for more information.

"Remember the world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page" St. Augustine
Ja'Vonne Harley
Host, The Traveling Eye, www.thetravelingeye.com
Owner, Advantage International, LLC www.advantage-intl.com

Ja'Vonne's Top 10 for 2010

2011-01-03T14:30:00.000-08:00

Wow, I cannot believe that 2010 has come and gone. Each new year brings about reflection and resolution. While I'm still working on my resolution, I have reflected and want to share with you the 10 things I remembered and well just thought were significant in my travel experience in the past year!

My most unique experience was the Fish Spa in Macau. You submerge your feet in pools and tiny "Garra Rufa or Doctor Fish" eat the dead skin from your feet. Exhilarating, weird and sensational!

Best food experience was also in Macau. They have a fantastic blend of Portuguese, Angolan and Chinese all put together creating Macanese cuisine. Drunken Sauna Prawns, the largest prawn I've ever seen, African chicken, Portuguese egg tarts, Chinese dumplings and great Portuguese wines, what more can I say?

Finally experiencing a Huka or Hooka, along a narrow street in Istanbul, Turkey. I felt old world, exotic and mysterious. I'm not a smoker but I just had to try it. The water pipe with flavored tabacco. I went for strawberry.

My best shopping experience was in Turkey. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul was overwhelming and fascinating. I got a beautiful marquisite and silver ring that I get loads of compliments on. But that's not all. The scarves, the jewelry, the shoes, the clothes...And, I'm not a shopper.

I was most surprised by the excellent Turkish wines and chocolates! My favorites were the dark chocolate covered almonds. Almond inside with a candy coating and finished with powdered dark chocolate, ummmm.

I was most disappointed by the carry-on baggage fee from Spirit Airlines. Now, I'm not so bent out of shape over checked baggage fees but this was ridiculous!

The new TSA pat down. My first "new" TSA pat down was not so bad. Everything was explained to me and the agent was gentle. She did a thorough but gentle job. The most recent one on Christmas eve on my journey home for the holidays was quite aggressive and now I can see what the fuss is about. This agent explained everything but I received what I can only describe as a couple of karate chops to the crotch. She did not have to be that rough. I guess it depends on who you have and I think she was not happy about having to do her job as she stated "I'm too old for this".

Abraham Lincoln Museum and Library in Springfield, IL. I was surprised and impressed by this museum. I learned much more about Abraham Lincoln than I had ever known. The museum is state of the art with holographic images and a wealth of information. The must see is the CNN room, where they do a televised CNN report and coverage of the candidates from the presidential election of 1860.

Road Trip to Cleveland Ohio! I know, who'd a thunk it? I got on a roller coaster for the first time in nearly 20 years! I ate duck fat fries actually called Animal Style Frites on the menu at the Greenhouse Tavern. It was Iron Chef Michael Symon's favorite on Best Thing I Ever Ate "Fried Food" episode and The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They have the dog slippers from Parliaments Atomic Dog!

Due to a flight delay it took me 10 hours to fly from Chicago to New York. I really don't need to elaborate on this. Enough said!

Well there you have it. Ja'Vonne's top 10 for 2010! Here's to a bright new year and more wonderful travel experiences in 2011!

Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye http://www.thetravelingeye.com/
Owner, Advantage International http://www.advantage-intl.com/

Swooshing Through The Snow

2010-12-09T14:27:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

Tis the season for the powder. You can either hide inside like the song says "The weather outside is frightful but the fire inside's delightful. Since we've no place to go. Let it snow let it snow let it snow!" Or you can go Swooshing through the snow! That's exactly what our special guests John Egan, Chief Recreation Office at Sugarbush Resort and Reginald Johnson, President of Black Ski Inc. do. go to http://www.thetravelingeye.com/ to see and listen 11am- Noon central time Friday, December 10, 2010.

John Egan will be our first guest and will take us from the basics of skiing to what's next for the advance skier.
John Egan, rated one of the top 48 greatest skiers of our time and the most influential people in the last 35 years (Powder 2006), top 50 skiers on the continent (Powder 1999), and top 7 in the world (Powder 1995) has skied down peaks that others thought were unskiable, accumulating dozens of first descents.

Cutting his teeth on the US Pro Tour, Mogul Tour and at the US Snowboarding Championships, he quickly developed a need to explore what Mother Nature had to offer, instead of organized competition. John started getting national recognition in the early 80s when Warren Miller identified him at Sugarbush as one of his next stars.

One of the original “poster boys,” he soon became what Warren referred to as “the A.T.V. of skiers – the boldest and most innovative to come along” and he sent him all over the globe with great success, resulting in more than 14 films. In addition, he has produced and starred in many other films with international film makers and also did his time in ads, hosting promotions and as a stunt man for 7 years in the general film and broadcast industry.

One of the original members of the North Face Extreme Team he is recognized around the world as a pioneer of Extreme Sports. From Argentina to Siberia, he has created fans and made friends everywhere. At home, John was inducted into the Vermont Ski Hall of Fame in 2003.

John is still pursuing his love of the mountain life. As founder and leader of the Adventure Learning Center at Sugarbush, he helps others year-round to achieve their athletic goals. Egan tirelessly spreads his philosophy on mojo, advances theories of perpendicularity and flow-mentum, while sharing gravitational enhancement techniques for both downhill mountain biking and skiing. If you talk with anyone lucky enough to ski or ride with John, they’ll tell you to learn with him is to love him and he’s changed their lives.

John earns consistent public respect with annual and continual exposure over 30 years including the Today Show in 2008, the New York Times in 2010 and recent issues of Ski, Powder and Outside Magazines. He is both revered as a teacher and seen as an icon. And he continues to inspire generations to come.

For more information or to contact John Egan http://www.sugarbush.com/

Reginald Johnson, President of Black Ski Inc. is our second guest and will tell us about Black Ski Inc, their organization, affiliation and events.

Black Ski Inc. BSI is one of the founding clubs of its umbrella organization, the National Brotherhood of Skiers (NBS). Black Ski Inc is a very active club that has been around for 37 years - and is more than just a ski club! Year 'round they've got something fun going on...

Skiing, Boarding, Racing, Golf, Bowling, Horseback Riding, Whitewater Rafting, Cycling and much more! Local, Nationwide and International ski trips, Youth Program, Young Adult Activities, Parties, Dances Lessons, Crab Feasts and Happy Hours. And many other social activities.

For more information or to contact Black Ski Inc. http://www.blackskiinc.com/

Ja'Vonne's Travel Tip:

Playing in the snow and being out in the cold is a lot of fun but we can't forget to protect ourselves against the elements. Dress in layers and make sure the first layer is made of synthetic fibers because they will keep you dry. Apply Vaseline to your skin to act as a shield against the wind and cold. Use sunscreen and lip balm and wear sun glasses especially on sunny days to protect against the sun and snows glare. When it comes to footwear go for rubber soles to keep the moisture out and don't wear cotton socks as they can become wet. If you’re traveling by road equip your car with appropriate tires, blankets, an ice scraper, shovel and flashlight for emergencies. So go ahead, embrace the cold and enjoy the snow but use these tips to have a healthy and safe winter.

Until next time....
Ja'Vonne Harley
Host, The Traveling Eye
President, Advantage International

Christmas Gifts for the Traveler

2010-12-03T16:00:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

Bonnie and I do a show each year on "Christmas Gifts for the Traveler". We list our favorite things along with some items we've discovered through research and recommendations. We vary our list to fit different wallets and tastes.

Stocking Stuffer: These are great because they are economical and/or small in size.

Pocket sized Road Atlas - Not everyone is technologically profound
Travel Sized Toiletries/Products - Make sure you select products that the traveler already uses
Carabiner - It's sort of triangular in shape and is used mostly by mountain climbers. I like to keep one in my luggage just in case I have to clip something together.
Multifunction Tool - These tools usually include, flashlights, ruler, screwdriver, etc.
Wine Wheel - This is an excellent tool to help you paid wine with your meal. There are several types that help with international wines. www.wineappreciation.com
Monogrammed Luggage Tags

Electronics:

Language Translators - You can spend a little or a lot. From books to talking devices. If you are a big spender you can also consider a language course.
Camera - from a disposable underwater camera to the top of the line
Portable speakers - There are many but I like the IMainGo. It's small and comes in it's own case with speakers and a place for your MP3 player and ear buds
Electrical Adaptor - from kits to my favorite the Belkin all in one

Books for sofa or real world traveler:

Travel Journal - Not a regular blank journal but the one made for traveling. It assists the traveler with taking notes by asking questions and some will also include travel tips
National Geographic's Drives of a Lifetime
Lonely Planet's The Travel Book
Food Journeys of a lifetime
Travel & Leisure's Unexpected USA
1000 places to see before you die - I use this book for those special places that are not on a regular tour or a major site
Subscription to a travel magazine - I like and subscribe to Travel & Leisure and for the high end traveler I like Departures

Other Gifts:

Gift Cards - They are offered by airlines & hotels & you can also get Itunes for music or travel apps
Frequent Flyer Miles - This is the gift where you give to get. Some airlines are running promotions where if you buy miles you also get bonus miles
Shawl or throw or blanket - I like the shawl or large scarf the best because you can use it as a blanket and to wear
Travel Sheet Set - Silk sheets to go with a built in pillow and case. Especially nice for the person who has allergies or sensitive skin or simply don't like sleeping on unfamiliar sheets
Slippers - Every traveler can use slippers for airports, airplanes or hotel rooms. I like ones that have rubber soles and fold
Microbead Neck Pillow - This has become my must have, especially when I travel economy. The Microbeads make the pillow soft and squishy and the fabric is plush. You can find them at any airport
Luggage Scale - This is almost a necessity now since airlines are so strict with luggage weight

Children

Geography - Anything that teaches geography in a fun way (a wall map, an electronic globe, games, etc)
Diaper Buds - These were invented by moms that got tired of transporting bulky diapers. They fold neatly into a small bud, which takes up less space than a regular diaper but opens to a full sized diaper. They are not as thick but will travel well and come in handy
Their luggage in their own size

We hope this list will assist you during the holiday and gifting season.

Here is a tip for the "Traveler".

Ja'Vonne's Travel Tip: Those who travel hear the same phrase almost every time they’re about to travel, “Bring me something Back”. We know that this allows some to live vicariously through your travels, but this task of bringing souvenirs back for loved ones can be cumbersome and expensive especially if you travel a lot. Instead of bringing back that souvenir and giving it to them right away, shop with Christmas and Birthdays in mind. Establish a gift closet so when you return home you can store it away & when the time is right go shopping in your closet. When your present your gift, it will be unique and memorable.

Fish Spa in Macau

2010-11-15T01:26:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

I have tried many types of spa treatments but this one beats them all for an unique experience. Today I went to the Fish Spa in Macau, located in The Shops at Four Seasons. A small place, with a menu of services including chair massages, hot stone foot massages and the Fish Spa! Small fish, called Garra Rufa or "Doctor Fish" with a special diet of dead skin, nibble away the dead skin on your feet and lower legs. The first discovery of these special fish was in the waters of a hot spring near Kangal, Turkey and have been scientifically proven by several universities to help people with skin problems. The type of suction these fish have allow them to only take off the dead skin, leaving the live skin cells in tact and in a healthy state.

Here at the Fish Spa at The Shops at Four Seasons in Macau, there are three small pools, each with fish in them. You first clean your feet and then starting with the "Doctor Fish", the smallest of them, about an inch long, you submerge your feet and lower part of your leg. Dozens of the "Doctor Fish"immediately come to your feet to have a smorgasbord of your dead skin. When the nibbling begins your first reaction is to snatch your feet out of the water. The fish anxiously wait for you to re-submerge your feet. At first it tickles and definitely takes some getting used to. Then, you calm down and start to relax as the "Doctor Fish" focus on getting the job done. It gets more intense the longer you're there and you can really start to feel the suction. In between your toes, on the bottom of your feet, around the cuticles of your toenails, around your ankles and up your calves, actually all the way to the top of where your legs are in the water. It's strange and exhilarating at the same time. After about 10 minutes you move to the next pool with larger fish called Piranian. Our guide jokingly told us they were piranha. These fish are light brown in color and about 3 inches long. As you approach the pool they immediately come to the surface eagerly awaiting to doctor your feet. This time it feels more like pecking. It was hard to get used to the larger fish because you could feel them more individually then you could the "Doctor Fish". The third pool has the largest fish also Piranian and about 4 inches long. They are a bit more aggressive and come to the surface if you just look into the pool. Here is where I chickened out. I don't know why because they don't have teeth but their lips are larger and to me look like small human lips. They were just a little too big for me to try.

After all was done my feet did feel more smooth and actually silky. I put my socks and shoes back on and my feet were still tingling. This tingling sensation lasted for about an hour. This was truly a unique experience that I'd do again, with the smaller Garra Rufa fish.

Until next time....

Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye
President, Advantage International

Having Fun in Macau - Day 2

2010-11-13T16:34:00.000-08:00

Hello fellow world travelers,
Friday was a very long day for me. I called in to do my Live radio show The Traveling Eye @ 1am my time in MACAU/11am in Chicago. Needless to say I went to bed immediately afterwards. Joao Rodigues, the Media and Marketing Manager for Macau Government Tourism joined as our special guest.

Saturday morning I woke up with the sun and ready to start a new day fresh and rested. Starting with the most important meal of the day. Breakfast. I love breakfast when I travel internationally because they are always so lavish. Ignoring the omelet bar I went for a Chinese breakfast. Noodle soup made to order with Chinese cabbage and steamed dumplings. Dumplings are like wonderfully wrapped presents. I never know what's inside, I just bite and enjoy. I have to admit that I became weak for bacon, although I had to ask them to crisp it for me. It's an American thing.

Our first stop was the Camoes Garden Park, named after "the great Portuguese poet Luis Vaz de Camoes." Locals gather in the park for their morning exercise, family time and card games. The cards are not your typical cards and I'll have to get back to you on what they are and what game they were playing. The men and their card games, I have to say card players here are very serious about their game and did not want any interference. I tried to approach them but they gave me such a look that I decided to keep my distance. I even flashed my sweetest smile but that didn't work either. One gentleman did give me half of a smile, but it was by no means an invitation so I decided to leave them alone. In another part of the park we watched some beautiful senior ladies doing Tai Chi to music. They were very inviting and asked us to join in. I have to say these beautiful senior ladies gave me a run for my money. I tried to follow along as much as I could with their routine. It looks easier than it is. Tai Chi is about having great muscle control, balance and flexibility. The easiest one was a repetitious dance that I have named Chinese Tai Chi Electric Slide. We turned to the side and swung our hips to the right and then to the left, then you turn around and kick your left leg forward, then your right leg forward. You wave your hands left and right then swing your hips to the left then to the right and repeat. The next dance became more challenging. They added a large fan. Along with the Tai Chi movements you flick your wrist to open the fan with a POP. Throughout the process you open and close the fan, move front to back, side to side, forwards and backwards and up and down. At one point my legs were crossed as I knelt down all the way to the ground, then without any assistance from your hands you stand up, all while following the music and continuing on to the next move. These ladies do it so effortlessly, are very limber and in shape. It's beautiful to watch and a lot of fun to try. This experience makes me want to find a Tai Chi class at home.

After our fabulous Tai Chi we headed to the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Historic Centre of Macau. Boy this place was crowded. The Ruins of St. Paul are perched above the city center at the top of very steep steps. It’s a great vantage point to people watch and get a feel of the city. This part for the city is a great place to stroll and taste the local midday fare. Almond cookies, all sorts of jerky and other delights. A lot of the shops give samples.

These were the highlights of my day. The two things I enjoyed the most.

After lunch at the MGM Grand, some free time to explore and ZAIA, a performance of Cirque du Soleil, we went to the quaint, Michelin recommended Antonio Restaurant. Antonio’s is an authentic Portuguese Restaurant owned by Antonio, who greets each of his diners as if they are old friends. He does special orders; he’ll sit with you and make you feel like you are in his home and did I mention that the food is excellent! It is, along with the history of the restaurant and how Antonio came to Macau. He simply wanted a simpler and stress free life. Our special treat was having Champagne opened with a samurai sword and Antonio making crepe Suzette's table side. What a fantastic way to end the evening.

Until next time...
Ja'Vonne Harley, Co-Host, The Traveling Eye
President, Advantage International

First Day in Macau

2010-11-12T06:56:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

Thanks to Cathay Pacific Airlines we have arrived safely in Macau. We flew from JFK to Macau via Vancouver. We had a 1.5 hour layover in Vancouver before we continued to Hong Kong. In total our flying time was 17 hours + the 1.5 hour layover. Cathay Pacific's economy class and business class is fantastic. The service is excellent!

Upon our arrival in Hong Kong, we transferred to the ferry to Macau (about 45 minutes). You can check your bags all the way to Macau and they are waiting for you at the Ferry station in Macau upon your arrival. It is very important to follow the signs for the Macau Ferry so that you can transfer from within the airport. If you don't and leave through baggage claim you will have to take a taxi to another ferry station because you cannot re-enter that section of the airport.

Macau is tiny, only 29.5 square kilometers. it consists of 2 islands (Taipa & Coloane) and the peninsula that connects it to mainland China. All of the bright lights are here along with several casinos and fabulous hotels. There are over 20,000 hotel rooms in Macau.

We are staying at the Madarin Oriental. By comparison the Mandarin Oriental is considered a boutique hotel with only 200 rooms. All rooms are suites with only the size of the living room varying. The higher the floor the larger the living room. The Mandarin Oriental does not have a casino, which I find pleasant. It's a nice quiet retreat to come back to after touring. From champagne bar to fabulous rooms a wonderful spa and an all high end mall, the Mandarin Oriental is a luxurious hotel.

On our first day weather is pleasant in the upper 60's low 70's.

We just finished a playful night and delightful dining experience at Nga Tim Cafe, where the owner is a lively man who is known to break out in song and visit every table. I'm told that while he was a bit more animated tonight because he and his wife were celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary, he is usually like this most nights. His restaurants are in a sort of courtyard with tables outside. It's very casual with the freshest seafood. The most dramatic dish of the night was the "Drunken Sauna Prawns". They arrive to your table alive! They thrashed about in a dish while marinating in wine and spices until they stop moving, then the waiter brings hot stones similar to the hot stones used in a hot stone massage. He pours the shrimp and the marinade over the hot stones, cover them and allow them to steam in what he calls a sauna and in minutes the shrimp are done. This dish is fun, dramatic and tasty!

What a fun evening!

Until tomorrow
Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye
President, Advantage International

TAKING MY OWN ADVICE

2010-11-10T16:16:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

I am off on another journey. This time to Macau. That tiny island next to Hong Kong. This is an unknown adventure for me & my first time to Macau. I've been to Hong Kong so I'm hoping there is a difference. I am part of a press trip and have already arrived at JFK but I have not met the others yet. Fortunately, the organizer arranged lounge passes for us, which allowed us to bypass a very long security line. Note to self, Terminal 7 @ JFK only has a Starbucks & Subway sandwich shop before security.

So far today was a great travel day. I took my own advice and packed one carry on bag, pictured here. This is a 7 day/5 night trip. That's right, we cross the date line making Macau 14 hours ahead of Chicago, thanks to daylight savings time. For the trip, which has a packed schedule with activities morning, noon and night, I packed 3 pairs of pants, 2 pairs of leggings, 6 tops (all interchangeable), 4 dresses and 2 pairs of shoes. Neatly and tightly packed I headed to the airport on this very clear day without a hitch.

My flight left and arrived on time giving me plenty of time at JFK's airport, taking my own advice. 5 1/2 hours to be exact. As I walked through the airport in search of the Airtrain that connects the terminals I realized that when you give yourself enough time and uncontrollable things don't get in your way, you easily stroll and pay more attention to your surroundings. I like to see others hurrying through the airport, some frantically, some confused and some just busy. You see couples kissing hello or goodbye, children crying, business people in their own world on their blackberry's, Iphones or laptops and the people who work there doing what they do each day. The airport has its own sound or as I like to think of it, it's own music and rhythm. You hear different languages, announcements, push carts and my favorite joy and laughter when loved ones see each other. I wonder... where is everyone going? so I asked a couple I sat next too while I waited. They were flying to Barcelona to take a 14 day cruise. The cruise will take them to the Mediterranean, Africa, Bermuda and finally Miami. One more thing before I get back to taking my own advice. People were helpful. I initially thought Cathay Pacific, the airline I'm taking to Macau, was at Terminal 4 so as I approached the Airtrain I asked if this train was going to Terminal 4. After I was told yes, I boarded the train and then saw on the directory that Cathay Pacific is in Terminal 7. (This is also a taking my own advice point. Double check information.)The next stop was 7 so I got off and at least 4 people hurried to tell me that I had gotten off at the wrong stop. Who said New Yorkers were rude? Yes, they were New Yorkers!

Back to taking my own advice. Limited to only one carry on bag and one additional bag, which is my laptop bag, I had a dilemma, what about my purse? I packed a small purse with a shoulder strap for the evening and a tote bag for day time and extra stuff. I packed them both in my laptop bag so I could get through security without being stopped. I was stopped anyway. Not because I had too much luggage or liquids that did not fit requirements but because of my underwire bra. Can't help that! Since I had given myself plenty of time (taking my own advice) I joked with the TSA agent as he had suggested I take off my jewelry, that the item that is setting off the machine I cannot or should I say will not remove. LOL! Anyway, they called for a female agent to come and frisk me. Up and down my arms and legs with the front of her hand. She explained that this is the new procedure. I know this to be true because I reported the story on "Travel News" on our show, The Traveling Eye. I enjoyed the rub down and went on my way.

One piece of advice I didn't take was "no alcohol". Since I'm in the lounge and it's free and Ganesh, one of the lounge attendants, keeps bringing them to me, I indulged in a couple of glasses of Malbec. No body's perfect so don't judge me!

Until Friday, when I arrive in Macau. That's Thursday for you!

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page" St. Augustine
Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye
President, Advantage International

Dissecting Travelers Insurance

2010-10-28T13:48:00.000-07:00

As a travel professional I always recommend travelers insurance to my clients. Not just because it is an extension of our services but because it protects your investment. Most trips that I sell are over $1000 per person based on double occupancy with most if not all components being Non-Refundable. We often get upset when we can't get our money back even if we were advised in advance what the cancellation/change penalties are. Why, because no one likes loosing money and I understand that. On our show, The Traveling Eye, this Friday we're Dissecting Travelers Insurance. What does it cover, What does it cost? and Do you really Need it? Below are the answers we will provide:

What does it cover?
This depends on the policy itself much like any other insurance policy. So, make sure you look at the policy to determine what you're getting. The basics are as follows:

Trip Cancellation provides reimbursement of non-refundable or unused trip expenses you are prevented from taking as long as the reason for cancellation is covered.
Trip Interruption provides the same as Trip Cancellation but also reimburses for additional expenses you may incur should you need to depart earlier than expected or take a detour.
Travel Delay will reimburse your incurred expense because you were delayed in arriving at your destination. The reasons for delay, the type and amount of expenses are described in the policy. For example, your flight was delayed, you missed your cruise and had to stay over. The policy might include reimbursement for accommodations, meals and other transportation. Missed Connections can also be part of this or listed separately.
Baggage Insurance: There are two types of insurance for baggage. Lost and Delay. The coverage for lost luggage is more than delay because delay will reimburse you for the emergency purchase of necessities and most policies will require that the delay is more than 24 hours. Lost baggage will cover for the loss, theft or damage and your personal effects. Keep in mind that airlines have responsibility and will reimburse up to a certain amount so the insurance company will only cover what the airline has or will not.
Medical Expenses: Emergency care costs are covered should you require or incur these expenses while you are traveling. This is often overlooked but I have had trips where someone needed to be hospitalized for major surgery and because of this insurance coverage their out of pocket expenses we little to none. Major accidents can happen when you're on vacation! Also, keep in mind that your at home health insurance policy may not adequately cover your medical expenses outside of the U.S.

Travelers Insurance vs. Travel Waiver Plan

Many companies sell a "Travel Plan". This is not insurance! This is a plan that will allow you to reschedule your travel within the said companies brochure. They may issue you a voucher or certificate that will allow you to use it with that "company only" for future travel and it is usually valid for one year.
Travelers Insurance is an actual insurance policy provided by an insurance company to reimburse travel expenses due to cancellation or interruption.

Cost of insurance:

The cost of insurance varies and will depend on several factors including but not limited to; the travelers age, cost of trip, inclusions, destination and pre-existing medical conditions. That being said a policy should cost around 7% of your total trip price with the average price in the United States being $200 per person. It can be more to cover a traveler with a pre-existing medical condition and will increase with the age of the traveler.

Travelers Insurance? Is it worth it? I believe so, especially for international and high priced packages.

Ja'Vonne Harley

Co-Host, The Traveling Eye

President, Advantage International

Staying Fit & Healthy While You Travel

2010-10-21T11:45:00.001-07:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

This Friday on The Traveling Eye, we'll have special guest and health & wellness expert Norma Rixter on. Norma will give us useful tips and information on staying fit and healty while we travel.

How to combat disrupted sleeping

How to combat disrupted elimination

Maintain a healty diet on the road

Exercise eauipment that is travel friendly

Exercises for men & women to do in your room when time is limited

V.I.T.A.L. Fitness Travel Gym by Norma Rixter
Now you’ve got your travel gym, (http://www.soarthru.com/), what now? You’ll need to plan a time to work out in your room, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, etc…. you decide. The more time the better the results. Your V.I.T.A.L. Fitness travel gym includes:
· Fitness DVD, “The Magic is in the Movement”
· Stretch band for strength training
· Resistance tubing with handles

I recommend you follow the DVD instructions to ensure proper form and optimum results. The DVD includes a five minute Warm up, which can be used for flexibility training. The DVD also includes a five minute Cool Down great for relaxation and stretching.

I have included a few exercises just in case you have forgotten to bring your DVD travel kit. The exercises listed below include upper and lower body, core and cardio.

Upper Body The push up is the overall upper body workout.

Women – Hold your head in a neutral position. Then stand in front of the dresser with feet hip width apart. You are going to use the dresser to push off. While standing in front of the dresser, place your hands on the dresser about shoulder width apart then lean forward with then lean toward the dresser until your chest almost touches the dresser, then push up, repeat (10 times) , if you have time do 2 sets

Men – You are going to do a full plank push up off the floor. Lie face down on the floor then place your feet just a little wider that hip width apart and your hands just a little wider than shoulder width apart. Then lift your body up keeping your body as flat as a board, then begin to bring your chest down to the floor and push up, repeat (20 times), if you have time do 2 sets

Lower Body The squat is the total lower body exercise that works the glutes, quads and hamstrings.

Stand in front of a chair and pretend to sit down as soon as you feel the chair stand back up, repeat (10 times), if you have time do 3 sets. Remember do not snap the knees when you stand up keep them soft to protect them.

Abdominals (Core) The core muscles stabilize the entire body, they help to keep many of your major organs in place.

Lie on your back and cradle your head in your hands, then lift your legs and bring them in and out alternating at a 45 degree angle slowly, repeat (10 times), if you have time do 3 sets, rest between sets

Cardio The must have, must do for heart and lung health!

I call this the “Ali Shuffle”, stand up and begin to move your feet forward and back alternating, try to get into a rhythm, keep the feet low. Begin to pick up the pace then engage the arms and hands as though you were jumping rope. Continue for 2 to 5 minutes rest then begin again for 2 more sets. This is a very energizing exercise so you may want to save this one for the mornings only.

Staying fit on the road doesn’t have to be hard. Staying active and eating smart will help you enjoy your time away and hit the ground running when you come back!

If you enjoyed these exercises, go to the V.I.T.A.L Fitness website http://www.soarthru.com/ to order the Health Tips Travelers Guide and The Vital Fitness Traveling Gym and other products.

Norma Rixter is a Personal Trainer and Nutritionist. She owns the V.I.T.A.L. Fitness Studio and provides customized workshops for companies and groups. She is a Keynote Speaker and a Conference Workshop Leader.

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Antalya - October 6, 2010

2010-10-06T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Our last day in Antalya. I'm loving Antalya. We went to the Turkish Museum of Antiquities today. It's a small and unassuming museum and from the outside you don't expect much. Once you go inside you walk through time from pottery and small tools to Hermes and Aprhodities. These antiquities are wonderfully displayed and for a small museum it offers a great deal of art and collection. After the museum we went into town for a little bit of shopping. We meandered down a steep hill lined with kiosks and restaurants. It's amazing how individual shopping is. We each have our own style and eye. I found wonderful silk and Turkish scarves, others found funky dresses and Turkish souvenirs, while others found jewelry.

After our shopping most of us returned to the hotel for lunch. The fruit and vegetables are so fresh and sweet. I took this free time to go to the cove. At the Marmara you take the elevator to zero and walk through a tunnel to arrive at the cove. The cove is a swimming and sunning area at the Mediterranean Sea. From there I had a Turkish massage. Starting with a Turkish Bath, heated stone room with a jacuzzi and areas to bath, a steam room that is the hottest steam room I've ever been in. The Turkish massage is a bit like the Swedish massage but first they start with pressure points and very firm pressure. then they add oil and massage and knead. My masseuse was a small woman with very strong hands. she got out my kinks. I highly recommend a massage here!

We finished our day with dinner at China Garden, a restaurant owned by our host and DMC Pamfilya. It's overlooking the harbor, has very good Chinese food and is one of the best restaurants in Antalya.

First thing in the morning we return to Istanbul for one more night before our journey comes to an end.

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page" St. Augustine.
Ja'Vonne Harley

Antalya

2010-10-05T06:57:00.000-07:00

It's Tuesday and the weather today is fabulous. We had a light day today. Toured the hotel Marmara Antalya. Kitschy decor. Lobby and entrance is on the 7th floor, restaurant is buffet, library, internet cafe, wine bar & lounge all in one. There are two swings, a graffiti wall, sofas and of course dining tables. The restaurant has an outdoor eating area and is the walkway to the deluxe rooms in the Revolving Loft, where we are staying. It's a cylindrical structure that rotates one full turn every 4 hours or so and your view is constantly changing. The surroundings are beautiful with the sea below and the mountains above. To go to the swimming area you take the elevator to zero and walk through a tunnel, there's a swimming area off the cliffs and while we were touring a sea turtle came to visit. This is a great seaside property.

Antalya is another historic sight. We visited some of the ruins including the Perge Southern Bath House. Boy the Turks loved their Turkish Baths. Many remains date back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries BC, the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman periods.

I'm loving Antayla, with it's warm Mediterranean Seas, mountian background, hisctoric sights, modern hotels and the wonderful food.

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page" St. Augustine
Ja'Vonne

Antalya, Turkey

2010-10-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

We have headed further south to Antalya. We started at 7:00 this morning for a full day road trip through the mountains. The scenary was beautiful driving along the mountain side and ovelooking the see. By the way we are overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. We stopped at ruins in Santos, where Helen of Troy's story spends some time. This is an often overlooked sight in Turkey, yet it holds significant history. It is definitely evident that this sight lacks funding. The excavation looks to be haulted and it concerns me that it does not appear to be very secure from theft and pilferage

We went up the mountain to visit the lovely Berzirgan Village in Kalkan to have lunch. Lunch was with a family for a home cooked lunch. They grow their own vegetables and I must say that it has been the best Turkish meals I've had in Turkey. For the first time I had Yayla Gobasi, a yogurt soup, surprisingly delicious. I've also learned adding yogurt to vegetables is a wonderful way to prepare a dish. Yogurt, garlic, lemon juice and some olive oil to cooked vegetables. I'm going to incorporate that into my cooking. Upon arriving women were in a room with an open fire place preparing a bread dish called Gozleme. The bread is rolled out and fire roasted, then spread with olive oil, garlic, parsely, tomato, and then rolled and sliced. I think I ate an entire roll to myself, although Ling and her husband ate as much as I did. Of course, we finished with desert or Hosmerim as they call it. It's made with semolina, sugar and milk, it's mixed into a paste and shaped with a teaspoon. It tastes a bit like a sweet peanut butter with a graining texture. No, Turkish meal would be complete without the tradional Tea served in the house sitting on the floor in small glasses.

After lunch we did a little walking through the village. Some of us went to the right and others went to the left. Those who went to the left (Terri, Sandy, Marc) encountered a farmer who beckoned them to take a picture with him and his goat. Those of us who went to the right (Blake, Michael, Nancy & Bich-Lien & I) encountered a sweet & lovely older Turkish woman walking towards us who greeted us. First she approached Nancy and wanted to shake he hand, smiling and speaking Turkish all the while. I motioned asking to take her picture and so she struck a pose, still speaking Turkish with a smile. She then approached me with what I think was asking for money, but all I had was 50L and I did not want to pay 50L for a photo. She proceeded to speak Turkish to me, smiling and all of a sudden I heard Bulls&!@t as she waived her hand and turned to walk away. I had to laugh and so did she as we looked back at each other. Such a sweet lady

I'm loving Turkey and driving the country. Beautiful landscape and so much history.

Tomorrow will be in Antayla and I'll share my experience with you once again.

"Remember the world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page" St. Augustine
Ja'Vonne

Bodrum, Turkey

2010-10-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Today is Sunday, October 3, 2010. What a wonderful day I had. We started in the morning on a wooden schooner, which is a lot like a yacht to me. We sailed for a few hours stopping for swimming and lunch. The weather was perfect. Sunny, in the low 80's. I did not go swimming because the water was too cold for me but some of the others did go swimming. I regret not bringing my swimsuit to join them. The Aegean Sea is so clear.

We had a faboulous lunch on board the Gulet, watercress in yogurt, salad, pickeled beets, oasted chicken, carrots and potato. everything was fresh and well made. Our desert was fresh cut fruit. The peaches were sweet like from my childhood.

After yachting, we went into town for shopping and exploring. I did not plan to shop but bought 4 dresses. The town is waterfront with pedestian streets filled with shops. everything from souvenirs to leather jackets and yes, McDonalds. Bodrum makes great leather sandals and everywhere you go you see the evil eye, or what is

Kusadasi - Ephesus

2010-10-02T12:56:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone,

It is Saturday, October 2nd. We left Istanbul very early this morning for Izrim airport. we then drove about 1 hour to the town of Selcuk where the ancient City of Ephesus is located. There is still a lot of excavation to be done but this city is fabulous. The city was also one of the largest Christian communities. Ephesus became the capitol of the province of Asia. One of the highlights is the Celcus Library. Maybe this was the first city with condos? There is evidence of luxury homes and Terraces Houses. The city also had an impressive theatre with the best accoustics. I busted out a few notes to test the accoustics. A verse from Summer Time. One new thing I learned is about Nike, the goddess of Victory! I see why Nike uses that name. When the library @ Celcus was burned down, we lost a great deal of history and knowledge.

after Ephesus we headed to Bulbul, the area where Mary was said to have spent her last days. The House of Mary. A small stone building perched admidst trees. It's a beautiful and peaceful place. Sory, no pictures were aloowed inside. I do have photos of the outside and the prayer wall. People leave notes of prayer on pieces of cloth or even a luggage tag. Plan ahead and take an empty bottle with you to fill with Holy water that comes from the spring and uns through the church.

This is a long and wonderful day traveled mostly by road. We continued onto Bodrum, where our hotel is located and is overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Ja'vonne

Ja'Vonne in Turkey

2010-10-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

It is day 3 for me in Turkey. Each I'm loving the destination more. I am in Istanbul staying at the Marmara Taksim Hotel. Marmara Hotels are Turkish owned hotels with 5 locations in Turkey and one in Manhattan, NYC. While the hotels cater to executives, it is very comfortable for the leisure traveler. Taksim, which means center of city is exactly that. We are centrally located. Wednesday was our day of arrival and we did a hotel site inspection and then dinner. I missed the hotel tour because of my late arrival. I did join them for dinner at the hotels restaurant Panorama. As its name suggests it offers excellent panoramic views of the city, Bosphorus and Asia. At night, actually around 1am the city police are assisted by dogs to patrol the streets. It's an interesting sight to see. Did I mention that this hotel has Starbucks? You know I'm a Starbucks fan and so I was extremely happy about that.

Thursday, September 30th we had a full day of touring visiting sights significant to the history of Istanbul and Turkey. We started with monuments dating back to the Roman City of Constinapolis. Constantine rules from 330 AD to 1453 until Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror who was 29 years old began to rule. The Roman Empire was a pagan society but Constantine's mother Helena was a believer of Christianity. Sultan Mehmet brought Islam to Turkey. In 1923 came the Foundation of Turkish Republic. During that time Ataturk bought a more secular way of thinking and changed the alphabet to the Latin alphabet. His full name was Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. We visited the Hippodrome, the heart of Byzantine Istanbul whee chariot races and other social events were held. We also visited Haghia Sophia, the Great Cathedral of Constantinople, which later became the Imperial Mosque of Ottoman and is now a museum. another historical site the Blue Mosque. The Blue Mosque is rich in color with blue, red and Green Iznik tiles that wee specially produced for the Ottoman Palaces and Mosques.

We had lunch at a sea side restaurant located in the Best Western. A quaint place with good food. We finished our touring of the Topkapi Palace, the first residential and administrative Palace of Ottoman Empire. We finished our day with dinner at Mikla Restaurant at the Marmara Pera hotel. I have to say that I was impressed. The menu was excellent and the Turkish wine was too. The wine was a Cabernet and Merlot. I had the prosciutto with fig and blue cheese. These were fresh figs. For my entree I had the "24 hour Trakya Kivircik" Lamb shoulder with a pomegranate molasses. The most tender and tasty lamb I've ever had.

On Friday, October 1st we visited Esma Sultan, a historical site used for special events.

Later in the afternoon, we went shopping at the Grand Bazaar. 3000 stalls with everything from trinkets to fine jewelry. I have to say it was a bit overwhelming. You should know what you want to buy and have an idea of price you want to pay. There are so many options and often little to decide. I found some wonderful silver jewelry. I suggest you pick a landmark so that you know where to go when you are ready. It's easy to get lost.

This evening after the show, we headed to the Bosphorus to board a private yacht. We cruised through the Bosphorus and had drinks and dinner. The views are gorgeous.

Well, it's 2:15am and I have to get up @ 5am for our 6pm departure to Izmir.

Later...
Ja'Vonne Harley

Ja'Vonne's 10 hour flight from Chicago to JFK

2010-09-30T15:15:00.000-07:00

I left Tuesday, September 28th from O'Hare @ 9:20am. The plan was to go to JFK via Pittsburgh arriving JFK @ 1:50pm. I also had a flight from JFK to Istanbul that was departing @ 4:45pm. My flight from O'Hare left on time and without a hitch. I landed in Pittsburgh on time and discovered that I had the perfect connection. I arrived at the same departing gate for my flight to JFK. Within 30 minutes we were boarding the same plane for our on time flight. All on board we were expecting an ealy departure. Wow, what a perfect connection. This is when it all went wrong. The pilot with his pilot voice announced that we will push back but have a 20 - 30 minute delay. We would park on the tarmac and wait for our take off time. After the 30 minutes passed another announcement was made that we would have another one hour delay. After that hour passed another announcement was made that there would be another 1 1/2 hour delay and due to passenger rights we would have to return to the gate. Upon returning to the gate we were told to not leave the gate area because we could get the all clear at any time. So we waited. Then we were told that our 12:30pm flight would now leave @ 4pm. So I started checking other options to get to JFK to make my Turkish Air flight. It is now 2:30pm and I think I can still make it. As I'm on the phone checking options an announcement is made that the flight has been canceled. Everyone approached the counter. Side note. Why do people cut in line? It's the one thing that really gets my goat. It's rude and unacceptable. What I don't understand is why others allow it to happen? Any way, back to my 10 hour flight from Chicago to JFK. One by one we told our stories and the airline assisted us with rebooking on another airline. In the mean time I called the group leader @ JFK to advise that I would not make my connection in JFK to Istanbul. She put me on a prioity waitlist for Turkish Air's 11:35pm flight. Finally, I'm at the counter and I get the last seat on USAir from Pittsburgh to Laguardia. The scheduled arrival is 6:30pm. Plenty of time to get from LaGuadia to JFK. I am told that my bag will be transfered from my original flight to my new flight. I really don;t trust this and I think it smells of a lost bag. I have faith and proceed. I head down to the gate and guess what's displayed. That's right "Flight Delayed". But that delay turned out to be a delay at all. Shortly after we boarded the plane for a pretty close to on time departure. We pushed back from the gate and our pilot makes an announcement in his pilot voice......We've been advised of a delay of 20 - 30 minutes so we'll push back and wait for our time of departure. De Ja Vu anyone??? This time 20 - 30 minutes was all it took. We took off and headed to LaGuardia. I actually arrived @ JFK @ 7pm. My luggage arrived as well. I approached Turkish Air and advised that I am still on Prioity Waitlist and won't know anything until 10pm. So I wait. I get a beer and a sandwhich and I wait. @ 11:00pm I'm finally cleared, issued my boarding pass and hand my bag over to security. Once again I'm worried if my bag will make it to the plane in 30 minutes but I put it out of my mind and head to the gate. I am pleasantly surprised with Turkish Air. Clean plane, good entertainment center, I got an aisle seat and the food was pretty good. I arrived in Istanbul, Turkey and the flight took 9 hours 40 minutes. Less time than it took me to get from O'Hare to JFK.

I cautiously approach baggage claim expecting that my bag would not have arrived and wouldn't you know it...there it was...a thing of beauty going around the carousel! I eagerly grab my bag and off I go to my hotel. I'm now in Turkey having a wondeful time.

The Traveling Eye Partners with Illinois Bureau of Tourism

2010-01-18T15:16:00.000-08:00

Hello Travelers,

The Traveling Eye has partnered with The Illinois Bureau of Tourism. From January - June 2010 The Traveling Eye will be enjoying Illinois. We will take our listeners on a tour of Illinois featuring weekend getaways each week, doing a complete show on an Illinois region each month and hosting two come along trips to Illinois destinations, where you will be able to join us.

Illinois is truly a state that has diverse attractions and we will uncover them:

Chicago & Chicagoland offer excellent site seeing, museums, world class dining, nightlife and shopping.
Northern Illionois with its indoor & outdoor adventures and historic towns
Central Illinois is Land of Lincoln. It's also Amish country and home to the Illinois State Museum.
Western Illinois is synonymous with the great outdoors from skiing to river boating and great fall foliage.
Southern Illinois has some fantastic trails. Native American trails, wine trails and golf trails.

Tune in and journey with us as we enjoy Illinois Mile after Magnificent Mile each Friday @ 11am CT on The Talk of Chicago 1690 WVON or on the web www.wvon.com.

www.enjoyillinois.com

Cruise Line Throw Cougars Overboard!

2010-01-17T17:10:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Recently I was at a friends home, playing Bid Whist and the topic of "Cougars" came up. Not the furry, four - legged kind, the human, female, walk on two legs kind. For those of you who are not aware, a "Cougar" is an older woman who dates much younger men.

Sitting in the room were several generations of women. The youngsters were at a table playing "Spades". Their age range was from 26 - 39. They quickly spoke up that there is no way they would date a man that was younger then they. The "Grown Folks" as we call ourselves, were at the Bid Whist table and ranged from 45 - 65 years of age. We quickly let them know that a little young blood can put a spark in a mature engine. The room went up in serious and sometimes heated discussion.

The topic came up when I mentioned to the group a story Ja'Vonne and I talked about on our radio program, The Traveling Eye on www.wvon.com.

According to TIME's Tim Padgett, Carnival Cruise lines has decided not to book anymore cougar themed group cruises. In December of 2009, a "Cougar Group" set sail on the Carnival Elation for a 3 day cruise from San Diego to Ensenada, Mexico and back.

Carnival Elation

The older women (Cougars) booked the cruise to meet and hang out with younger men (Cubs). When I heard that Carnival wasn't going to book any more cougar themed groups, I immediately thought that the event must have turned out to be a "Cougars Gone Wild" type of cruise. Young, gorgeous, washboard stomach guys chasing 40, 50 and 60 year old women around the deck and dousing them in tanning oil.

Carnival Cruise Lines said that the group of 300 plus wasn't wild at all. The wildest event was the typical cruise ship hot tub party. The guests weren't overly loud or disturbed other passengers. So what was the problem?

Tim reported that Carnival wouldn't discuss the ban on the Cougar groups but sent an email statement stating that the cruise line had, "made the decision not to allow any future groups to be booked and marketed on our ships under this them. It was a business decision."

There are travel experts who feel that Carnival is planning to market itself as a cruise line that promotes family fun and wholesomeness. The cougar groups may give the image of the cruise line being a floating girls gone wild party ship. ( Hey, it popped in my mind).

As we discussed the article during our card game, the question came up, "What would happen if the group wanted to buy out entire ship. Would Carnival turn them down?" I am sure Carnival or any other cruise line wouldn't turn down the money. It is, however, a different set of circumstances when you book the entire ship versus when you are just a small group among many passengers. While people are more accustomed to seeing a 60 year old man with a 20 or 30 something young woman on his arm, some folks may be offended (I don't have a clue why) or feel uncomfortable watching a 20 or 30 year old young man rub suntan lotion on a 50 or 60 year old woman. Sound like a double standard to you?

As I won my five, no-trump, downtown (yes, I am good), I informed the group that even though Carnival Cruise lines has thrown Cougar groups overboard, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise lines brought in the life boats. Cougars and Cubs will be setting sail in May and in December of 2010.

If you happen to be on board and see a group of beautiful, highly motivated, intelligent Black women engrossed in a bid whist game, pull up a chair and sit down. GROWL!

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie DeShong
Co-host The Traveling Eye - www.wvon
www.thetravelingeye.com
www.chicagonow.com

Air Rage

2010-01-07T20:31:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

As I was reading through some crazy travel stories I came across one that sounded odd at first but I must say it could have been written about any one of us who fly on a regular basis. The story was about the overhead compartment on a plane

How many times have you gotten on a plane and went to put your carry on in the overhead compartment over your seat and found that the space has been taken by someone else's luggage. One would assume that the overhead compartment over each seat is designated for the two or three passengers that are sitting under it. However, in this case, someone has taken your space and there isn't any room in your compartment nor is there any room near you. Now your bag must go in a compartment away from where you are sitting or the flight attendant takes it from you and whisks it off to some unknown area. How many of you have wanted to stand in middle of the aisle and yell for the person who has taken your space to come and get their bag or worse yet, grab the bag out of the compartment and throw it down and place your bag in its rightful place, over your seat?

A passenger aboard a flight from Singapore to Australia took matters in his own hands, after he balled them into fists, and placed them in the face of another passenger. News.com reported that a passenger got on the flight and there was no room over his seat for his bag so he took the space above someone else's seat. The second passenger got on and found that his space had been taken, found the passenger of the luggage and "commenced" to hitting said passenger in the face. When I read this I immediately heard Popeye's voice, "That's all I can stand and I can't stands no more".

Passenger number one was moved to another seat, I assume his carry on luggage was moved with him, and the plane continued on to Australia where the authorities had a special compartment for Passenger number two and his luggage.

On another note, there is the traveler who is just plain rude. They get on the plane and they are sitting in row 19 but they place their luggage in the compartment over row 8 (they would never try this in first class compartments). This person has totally inconvenienced everyone on the flight because of the trickle down effect. Row number 8 can't place his luggage so he puts it in row number 9 who must now place theirs in row number 10 and so on and so on. Totally rude and inconsiderate.

You don't hear much about Air Rage. Usually people are pretty tolerant of babies crying, someone's knees in your back or a child kicking the back of your seat. There is also that one passenger that wants to talk the entire flight when all you want to do is listen to your IPOD or read a book. You may even tolerate that passenger that falls asleep and uses your shoulder for a pillow. However, someone putting their bag in the overhead compartment that is over YOUR seat? Intolerable!

Well, with fees going up on checked baggage and more people are carrying on their bags, there is only so much space in overhead bins so what is a traveler to do? Seriously, I'm asking, WHAT IS A TRAVELER TO DO?

Tune into The Traveling Eye every Friday from 11 AM to Noon, Central Time on 1690 WVON or on the web at www.wvon.com. Feel free to call in and voice your opinions on our topics at 773 591-1690

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie DeShong
Co-host of The Traveling Eye
www.thetravelingeye.com
www.thetravelingeye.blogspot.com

Man Overboard!

2010-01-03T19:20:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

How many of you enjoy going on cruises? During the cold winter months here in Chicago, people book cruises to get away from the ice, cold and snow. It is great to leave Chicago in December, head to a cruise Port of Call and after a few days or a week lying on deck in the hot sun, come back to the Windy City relaxed with a beautiful deep tan while everyone else is walking around dressed head to toe in layers.

I am not a cruise person but it is amazing the number of people who enjoy them as their only means of vacationing. However, over the past year or so, it appears that people are taking cruises for another reason.

During 2008-2009, there have been quite a few people that have gone overboard on cruise ships. The latest was New Years Eve when a 23 year old woman was reported missing from Royal Caribbean's Monarch of the Seas. The ship was headed from Nassau to CocoCay. Security camera footage showed the woman jumping overboard from the 11th deck. After two days and 3,725 miles of trying to find the young woman, the U.S. Coast Guard suspended its search.

After doing a little internet research, it appears that between 2008 and 2009, at least 28 people have started off on a cruise but didn't come back in the same condition they were in when the ship left port, if at all.

Every time one of these reports hits the news, Ja'Vonne and I have discussions on what responsibility, if any, does the cruise lines have to insure the safety of all their passengers.

Should they take away the balcony rooms on ships? It was reported that and elderly couple booked a cabin with a balcony. They allegedly locked the door from the inside and jumped from the balcony into the ocean. Perhaps they should put netting up on all decks so that people can't jump from the ship into the water? Should cruise ships post more security on all the decks so that if anyone goes near the railing they are stopped? What would this mean for the other passengers who are just on a cruise to relax and have a good time?

I'm interested in hearing from you. What do you think?

Don't forget to mark your calendars to tune into The Traveling Eye Travel Radio Program heard every Friday from 11 AM - Noon, Central Time on The Talk of Chicago 1690 WVON or on the web at www.wvon.com. Ja'Vonne and I cover all topics that involve travel.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie DeShong
www.thetravelingeye.com
www.thetravelingeye@blogspot.com

Up In The Air - The Frequent Flyer

2009-12-24T17:10:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

Have you seen the film that is in theaters starring George Clooney called "Up In The Air"?

This is one movie that will give you some great tips on traveling. As cute and talented as George Clooney is, his character in the film, Ryan Bingham, gives some great travel tips we all should follow when traveling.

The premise of the film is Ryan Bingham is a Corporate Downsizing Expert. He works for a company that corporations hire to come in and fire people. Ryan is in more airports and hotels than he is in his own home. He has a personal goal to obtain 10 million frequent flyer miles on his airline of choice.

Ryan has several tips for the frequent flyer.

1. Pick an airline and sign up for their frequent flyer miles program. His airline of choice was American and their Advantage program. Then use credit cards, hotels, car rentals companies and restaurants that partner with the airline's program.

2. Learn to pack everything you need in a carry-on bag. He and my "partner in travel" and on the radio, Ja'Vonne, has this tip down to a science. I'm getting there.

3. Check in on line or at the Kiosk.

4. When going through TSA security, scope out the lines before you get in one. If there are families in a line and you are a single traveler, you might not want to get in that line. It will take time to get the strollers and things through. If there is a line with business travelers, that might be the line for you. They travel often and know what to do to get through security quickly.

5. Take time to know the airport you are traveling out of and in to. If your gate changes at the last minute you won't waste time trying to figure out which way to go.

6. Dress nice when you travel. You won't get that upgrade if you look like you are on your way to a football game.

6. Smile, be polite and look the airline personnel in the eye. You treat them nice...they will remember you the next time you come through.

Ryan's goal was to earn 10 million frequent flyer miles and he would get to fly anywhere he wanted on American, meet the premier pilot, and get his name on a plane. Did he make it? You will have to see the movie to find out.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the Sky!

Bonnie DeShong
Co-host of The Traveling Eye heard on WVON1690, www.wvon.com
Fridays - 11 AM - Noon, Central Time
www.thetravelingeye.com

Traveling Home for the Holidays!

2009-12-24T16:11:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

The holidays are here and like so many of you, Ja'Vonne and Gene Harley and I all went to our hometowns for the holidays. Ja'Vonne and Gene are from D.C. and flew out on different days headed east after the big snow storm. I am sure Ja'Vonne will blog about her trip east for the holidays. My hometown is Champaign, Illinois so I planned to pack up the car, hit I-57 and head home for Christmas.

My plan was to leave the evening of the Wednesday before Christmas Eve and be home in an hour and a half. Mother Nature had other plans and Chicago was hit with freezing rain (which I learned is different from sleet and snow) so it wasn't safe to head out.

What do you do when you plan to drive out of town for the holidays? Here are some tips that I take when I plan to drive anywhere in the winter months.

Winterize the car - I usually go the to good old neighborhood car shop to get my oil changed, fluids, and pressure in the tires checked. Speaking of tires, make sure the tires are in good condition. Don't forget to check the windshield wiper blades.

In the trunk of my car I have my winter pack together. I test things to make sure everything works. I have jumper cables, flares, a blanket, flashlight, a jug of water, kitty litter, windshield wiper solution, and a shovel. In my glove compartment I have a couple of granola bars.

When I get on the road I usually put premium gas in the car, however, whatever grade of gas you use, make sure you begin your trip with a full tank of gas. I find it helpful to fill up the tank along the way when the tank is half full.

With the icy rain in Chicago I postponed my trip until Christmas Eve but before I set out on the road I watched the weather reports, called my uncle in Champaign to ask what the weather conditions were there and I called the Illinois Department of Transportation (800 452-4368) to check the road conditions on I-57. IDOT's recording said that there wasn't any ice or snow on the I-57 from I-294 to Carbondale. GREAT! I felt safe to load up the car and head home for the holidays.

Remember, the best way to travel during the holidays is to do it safely.

What are some of your helpful travel tips?

Until next time, keep you EYE to the sky and Happy Holidays!

Bonnie DeShong
Co-host The Traveling Eye
www.thetravelingeye.com

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

2009-12-20T18:46:00.000-08:00

Hello World Travelers,

As we approach the Christmas holiday and holiday travel, the weather is already wreaking havoc. A northeast snow storm blanketed Washington, DC (my home town), Philadelphia, New York and up through to Boston. For a change Chicago's weather is better than DC's weather but I don't think that will be for long. The weather forecast is calling for snow on Christmas day in the Midwest! But by then I will be in DC.

The holiday travel season officially kicked off this weekend and Monday the 21st of December the is first day of winter and already somewhere in the US airports were closed and holiday travel was hindered.

I love the Christmas Holiday. I travel from Chicago to DC each year and the last thing I or anyone wants is to spend the holidays at the airport or stranded somewhere. While we may not be able to control this completely there are some things we can do to make things better. Here are some holiday and bad weather travel tips for you.

Don't travel with wrapped gifts, airport security can ask you to unwrap them. Also, TSA has every right to inspect your checked luggage and unwrap your gifts
Book morning flights, even with delayed flights you may be able to get out that day and usually flights will take off before or as bad develops
Try to book non-stop flights when possible and avoid connections in cities where bad weather is likely
If you are on a connecting flight watch the weather channel and get ahead of weather problems at your connecting city. You may be able to have your flight rerouted before the masses are affected
Give yourself an extra hour
Have emergency and important phone numbers stored in your cell phone. The hotel where you will stay, the airline, the car rental company, etc.
Register your cell phone number with the airline for alerts!
If you're traveling with children, make sure you bring things to keep them occupied in case of delays. And bring snacks so you won't spend a fortune at the airport
Be proactive and check the board at the airport
If at all possible bring only carry on luggage. This will give you more flexibility when it comes to getting on other flights
If you're traveling by road make sure you have a road emergency kit in your car, it should include a blanket, flare, cables, a spare tire, water, snacks, jack, gas and roadside insurance
Get a check up for your car to make sure it can make the long haul or the trip you're taking
Lastly, just be prepared, this is not the time to hit the road without being prepared!

Good News, Now through January 4th most major US airlines have eliminated advance purchase rules for holiday travel. So if you have not purchased that airline ticket yet, there is still a chance to get an inexpensive ticket!

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

The Traveling Eye, on The Talk of Chicago 1690 WVON or http://www.wvon.com/

December 18th - On The Traveline Eye

2009-12-17T11:44:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

Today on the show.

We're talking about Hot Topics in the travel industry.

Obese passengers and if they should purchase an additional seat
Airline fees, When is enough enough
Passenger Rights

Here is the link for USA Todays Airpor Guide for the 25 busiest airports
http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/airportguides/index.htm

Travel & Leisures pick for worlds top hotels
http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/worlds-top-50-hotels-2010/1

Aria Las Vegas Opens. The largest hotel in Begas with over 4000 rooms
http://www.arialasvegas.com/

Should Obese Passengers Pay more?

2009-12-10T21:15:00.000-08:00

This picture has been posted on the web but it is not an uncommon site. While it appears to me that the passenger is partially resting on the outer armrest, he is still large and will take up some of the seat of the passenger sitting next to him or hang into the aisle. Now, all armrests are to be down before take off and landing so the other question is can he put down the armrest? If not is this a safety risk not only for himself but for other passengers? You be the judge!

We're going Places

2009-12-10T20:56:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

Breaking News!. The Traveling Eye will expand it's blogging. We are now blogging on Chicago Now with N'digo. Pay us a visit there and make your comments!

http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/ndigo-traveling-eye/

We will continue to blog on this site!

See ya!

Travel Essentials

2009-11-17T18:22:00.000-08:00

Hello Fellow World Travelers,

On Friday, November 13th The Traveling Eye did a show on Bonnie's & Ja'Vonne's Travel Essentials. So if you missed the show or if you heard the show and wanted to refer to ou list of Travel Essentials read on...

Bonnie's Travel Essentials

Power strip, Why? Hotel rooms rarely have enough electrical outlets and with todays electronics (lap top, cell phone, camera and Ipod charges) we need several outlets. Another good reason? You can keep all of your electronics in one place and you're likely to leave one behind.
Socks, Why? your feet get cold, you can freely walk about the plane and through airport security and keep your feet clean
Electronic Reading Device, Why? Books are heavy!
Luggage Scale, Why? With escalating baggage fees you can weigh your luggage before you get to the airport
Zip Lock Bags, Why? They're good for your toiletries, snacks, things that can leak and all sorts of things
Travel Alarm Clock, Why? It's portable, you know how to use it and you don;t have to rely on electricity
Charges, Why? You need them as you use your electronics
Emergency Contact information and insurance cards, Why? If something happens to you or your home you have a go to person to assist you or take care of things in the event somethign goes wrong.
Camera/Video Camera, Why? To take home the memories and capture good times

Ja'Vonne's Travel Essentials

Add a lock, Why? This little gadget is small, portable and it makes your hotel room a fortress.
Wheeled Luggage, Why? For easy moving especially with heavy luggage and you can move it yourself.
Comfortable shoes, Why? You'll always need a good paid of walking shoes and for more comfort moving around the airport and on the plane.
Snacks, Why? We each have snacks we love and your special snack may not be available on the road and snacks can be expensive.
Mint or gum, Why? Especially on long flights halitosis can be a problem before you can get to the toothbrush!
Neck pillow for long flights. Why? It's very comfortable and it prevents the dreaded head bob. I like the soft ones with microbeads.
First aid kit (band-aids, Neosporin, ace bandage, tweezers), Why? you never know when you'll need one and it could be at odd hours when the stores are closed.
Basic medicines, Why? Same reason as the First Air Kit, plus they can be very expensive on the road.
Flash Drive, Why? You can take your computer files with you. I like at least 2gb. Plus when you use a public computer it's the only way you can download a file.
Sanitizers (hand, Lysol, antibacterial wipes), Why? H1N1, Norovirus, a lot of people don;t wash their hands.
Umbrella or rain hat or poncho, Why? Weather happens.
Shawl, scarf, pashmina, Why? They're great accessories and are multi-purpose.
An extra bag, a collapsible one, Why? We always bring back more than we take.
$1 bills, Why? Mostly for tipping but also take small bills with you for street shopping.
Teeth brushing alternative for long flights, Why? If you're like me, I cannot brush my teeth in a public place so to have fresh breath until I get to my hotel I use either the Wisp or the Brush Up.
Laundry bag, Why? I like to keep my dirty clothes separate from my clean clothes in my luggage and it makes unpacking easier.
Laundry detergent, Why? For those items you prefer or need to wash out in the sink. Think bathing suit. I'm not one to bring a bathing suit for each day.

The Traveling Eye is in EGYPT

2009-10-30T06:26:00.000-07:00

It is day 4 and we are heading to Aswan for our Nile River Cruise from Aswan to Luxor.

We arrived in Cairo on the 27th in the evening. After a long day of traveling we had a welcome drink in the lounge at the hotel, got something to eat and called it a night.

First thing in the morning on the 28th we headed to The Pyramids. Everyone was so excited! It is my 5th time in Egypt and I got excited like I had never been before. I enjoy the excitement and amazement of others. I watched as the group explored The Pyramids. They climbed and took photos. All I could see were smiles. Some of the group took camel rides near the Pyramids. It is always enjoyable to see both fear and joy when someone gets on a camel for the first time. The way a camel stands is awkward. They lift their rear legs first and you feel like you're going to fall off forward. Then when they get up on their front legs you realize how tall they really are. Unlike other four legged animals they walk moving both legs on the same side together rather than the left front with the right rear. With everyone mounted the group was on it's way. Bonnie took lots of photos so you'll get a chance to see.

At the second Pyramid our adventurous group went inside the Pyramid. A very narrow and low passage that descends about 100 feet. You have to squat and walk to get to the bottom where you can stand. You then have to climb out the same way you went in. They only allow 150 people into the Pyramid each day and we were among the lucky ones. Every one returned exhausted and exhilarated. One of the group members said "I could feel the people who built the Pyramids and get a sense of what it must have been like."

Of course we went over to the Sphinx, half lion half man. We walked the alabaster corridors and pretended we were descendants of Ramses. As we walked through I could hear the discussions of amazement of the construction and architecture that had been created and how all the movies and documentaries we had seen had now come to life.

We took a break in between touring and visited a Papyrus shop. Papyrus is ancient paper made from the leaves. The process is the same today, however the Papyrus is adorned with art work. Paintings of Pharaohs, Ramses, the Pyramids, the calendar, temples, etc.

After our shopping excursion we headed to the Cairo Museum. Of course, we saw beds made of gold, chariots and other artifacts but the highlight were the mummy rooms. We saw the mummy of Ramses I - IX, we also saw a Queen with spiral curls and double strand twists just like our African American ladies today. One of our group members came out in tears because she had just seen the mummified Ramses II.

Our day is finished and we head back to our hotel. Tomorrow is an optional tour day of Islamic Egypt, Coptic Egypt and Sakkarra. I'll continue later to tell you all about it.

Some of the group took the optional tours. Bonnie was one of them. They visited the Mosque of Mohamed Ali.

Later that evening we met some friends (Mostafa) for dinner on a river boat on Nile River. We crossed over a bridge that is know to the locals as Lovers Bridge. Young couples walk along the bridge and hold hands and sometimes kiss. Public affection is not very popular in Egypt. It was nice to see old fashioned courting. It is Thursday night and the city is very busy. Thursday is like our Friday night. Since Friday is their holy day, everyone goes out Thursday evening. Mostafa told us it took him 3 hours to get to the city when it would normally take him 1 hour, because of the traffic. After dinner we went to Old Cairo, a walled city from ancient Cairo. The city is beautiful and there we no tourists other than ourselves inside. There are narrow streets antique stores beautiful mosques. It was a pleasure being in Cairo on a Thursday evening with the locals.
Friday morning we head to the airport for our flight to Aswan. As soon as we left the airport in Aswan it was a totally different scene. Aswan is south of Cairo and is a much smaller city with a lot less people. No traffic, the air is cleaner and no high rise buildings. We immediately headed to our ship after a stop at the Aswan High Dam. The Aswan High Dam was built in 1960 to improve Egypt's irrigation and electricity it also created Lake Nasser, the largest man made lake.

There are over 300 cruise ships that cruise the Nile River between Aswan and Luxor. The port isn't large enough to hold them all bow to stern so in addition they park starboard to port 4 to 5 deep in some cases. So when you board the ship you walk through other ships lobby's to get to yours, as was the case with ours. Bonnie and I had to set up for our show while the others left for a felucca ride along the Nile. I've done this before. It is so peaceful. Small sail boats that meander along the Nile with Nubian sailors. Aswan is the most beautiful part of the Nile in my opinion. They often sing a tune which sounds like Oh A Lady, which means celebrate, so I'm told. It is now 6pm and time for our show. We are 7 hours ahead of Chicago and our show is "Live". I hope we conveyed our excitement. Half way through our show the group returned and some got a chance to tell their story and experience. Rita Smith, tells of her emotional experience at the Cairo Museum in the mummies room. Pam Nelson, explains her argument of the intelligence and life form of those who created the Pyramids, Pat Stovall, tells of her overall excitement and Gina Jamison of her awesome experience at Abu Simble.

Later that evening we had dinner and went to the night club on the ship. Tonight was the Nubian Show. Dancers, musicians and singers and of course audience participation. Pam seemed to be the target of one of the dancers. My favorite is the Whirling Dervish. This dance originated as a religious expression from an Islamic sect. A mystical dancer who stands between the material and cosmic worlds. The movement would signify a higher plan of life and releasing all distracting thoughts to be in a trance. The form we saw and the one usually seen now is for entertainment value.

Each day as we cruised from Aswan to Luxor we stopped and visited temples. The Temple of Philae built for Isis. It stands in the middle of the River and we had to take a boat to it. Part of it still stands in River. Kom Ombo, where the crocodile museum and a mummified crocodile is located. Kom Ombo has two temples. Temple of Sobek and Temple of Horaisis. Crocodiles used to hang out on the river banks here in ancient times and the artifacts are in the museum. We went through the Esna Lock. While we were on the top deck as we went through the lock a bag was hurled up on the deck. Inside were shawls. There was some negotiation and more shawls of different colors were hurled up on the deck. As we kept moving the seller got on his motorcycle and met us at the next vantage point where the buyer put money and the unwanted shawls into the bag and hurled it back below. Shopping never stops. Our final days along the Nile River were in Luxor. We visited the massive Karnak Temple, the largest temple complex built by man. The complex was built and enlarged over a thirteen year period. The Luxor Temple, built mostly by Amenotep III and Ramses II, is in clear view from the Nile River right in the middle of the city. Alas, the Valley of Kings, Valley of Queens and Hatshepsuts Temple. These Pharaohs built Tombs in Thebes away from the Pyramids, to make them less visible and harder to find, therefore harder to rob. They consisted of chambers with the furthest one housing the sarcophagus. We visited King Tuts Tomb and Ramses VI Tomb. In the Valley of the Queens, we visited the tomb of Nefertari, one of Ramses II wives, said to be his favorite. The tombs walls are adorned with hieroglyphics and color. Blues, reds, yellow and yes, brown people. Hatshepsut, the female Pharaoh's Temple is beautiful. Carved into the mountain with ascending steps to pillars and statues. Unfortunately, after her reign her stepson had her name and images chiseled off throughout the temple. Talk about family rivalry.

Egypt has so many wonderful sights to see and so much history. There was a question on our show about the possibility of aliens creating the Pyamids. What do I think? I think man created the Pyramids. Some where along the way we lost a lot of intelligence that we are still regaining today. The Library of Alexandria, said to be the greatest archive of knowledge was destroyed. Maybe the answers lyed there. I am in awe of the magnificence of our ancestors, what they created and how they left their stories for us to find. Most of what we are finding are pieces they created and collected for their afterlife so I can only wonder what they created for their everyday life. Click on the camera for the photo show!

Until next time.....