HISTORIC / ARCHEOLOGICAL

INDIA I am in Kerala, the southern coast of India, at a port called Kodangallur. The Brits in their 150 years of colonial dominance here till 1947, couldn't pronounce Kodangallur and came as close to the name as their thick tongues would allow by calling it Cranganore. Apostle Thomas had landed at Kodangallur in 52 A.D., soon after the death of Christ. full story >>>	EGYPT FEATURE: There is no question that “pyramid power” draws millions of tourists to Egypt every year. Indeed, the pyramids are worth the visit by themselves. There are more than 100 pyramids documented in the country but only about four or five are significant tourist destinations. full story >>>
ENGLAND I am sitting in the tranquil green grounds of Kirkstall Abbey, with the medieval building to one side and swans gliding somewhere between the River Aire, the lowering sun to the other. It isn’t difficult to imagine why the Cistercian monks chose to build their new community here in the twelfth century. full story >>>	ENGLAND Since I live nearby, and have a pass which allows me free entry, I can get to Stonehenge any time. But, when I first arrived in the area, I made a very special visit. I went to the Stones to be lectured about them by none other than John Aubrey, the English antiquarian … or rather a re-enactor playing his part. full story >>>
THAILAND The thrill of hearing your trowel “clink” on an artifact or part of skeletal remains that nobody has seen for over 3000 years is shared by all of us who are volunteers. In addition to digging, we take turns reconstructing ancient pottery (similar to assembling a three-dimensional jig saw puzzle) and sorting other finds such as jewelry and tools. full story >>>	ILLINOIS, USA Gary Hawkins is a computer technician who knows how to catch a ghost. Yes, he boldly claims that he knows how to snatch one by the limbs, and make them screech, howl and fight until he decides to let them go. Hawkins sure gets plenty of practice too, because he resides in one of the most haunted places in America: Alton, Illinois. full story >>>
MEXICO I ascend to a panorama that plays like a scene from The Treasure of the Sierra Madre. The narrow street I’m on is clogged with people and traffic in every direction. Honking, belching cars compete with mariachi music that blares from a nearby café. Stately mansions and magnificent churches preside over the chaotic street scene. full story >>>	GREECE Delphi, located on the slopes of Mt. Parnassos, was the most important sacred sanctuary of ancient Greece, home of Apollo, god of light. No important decisions were made politically or personally in antiquity without first consulting the Delphic Oracle in Apollo’s sanctuary. full story >>>
DENMARK Despite being the second largest city in Denmark, Aarhus has a relaxed small town feeling. Most important sites are within walking distance. The cathedral, built in 1201, is at the center of everything. Inside, a magnificent Gothic altarpiece as well as frescoes contrast with its stark white walls. full story >>>