Kathy Slamp
Stories (8/0)
The Lemurs of Madagascar
Madagascar is one of the most unusual and diverse places in the world! Although it is associated with the continent of Africa, it is less "African" than any place we have visited in Africa. The islands of Reunion and Mauritius are situated east of the main island and stand in sharp contrast to the large island of Madagascar. Whereas the large island has a poverty stricken population, these islands are luxury destinations for the subcontinent of Asia.
By Kathy Slamp5 years ago in Wander
Cruising the Yangtze
Why China was always on my "Bucket List" When I was a child living in Alaska, a very special couple doubled as my adopted grandparents. This couple were missionaries in China for many years. In the 1930s while they were home from China, they homesteaded in Alaska and then returned to China. They were living in in China in 1949 when politics forced them and other Americans in China to leave. With nowhere else to go, they returned to Alaska and their root vegetable farm near my home of Fairbanks.
By Kathy Slamp5 years ago in Wander
Venice
Venice is without a doubt one of the most famous and visited cities in the entire world. It is romantic, charming, unique, and a bit daunting. Visiting Venice is definitely a “bucket list” destination to any serious traveler. Our first visit to Venice was over 20 years ago, and looking back on that adventure, it was a disappointment. Our subsequent visits, though, were all remarkably memorable. MUCH has been written about Venice, and I doubt that I can add anything new, but I’d like to make some observations on: (1) Our first visit, (2) St. Mark’s Square, (2) The Doge's Palace (3) the canals and bridges—specifically the Rialto and Academia Bridges, (4) The gondolas of Venice, and (5) Murano and Burano.
By Kathy Slamp5 years ago in Wander
Thailand
Visiting Thailand, I quickly understood why it is called “The Land of Smiles.” Everyone is friendly and eager to please! A single visit to any country never makes one an expert, but our visit to Thailand began to open up to us the brand new world of the Far East! Thailand is a gorgeous, tropical country, and its people are extremely friendly. Thailand is indeed a “Land of Smiles.” It is a Southeast Asian kingdom that has survived for generations which for many years the world knew as Siam. Its lush jungle atmosphere provides Thailand's visitor with beautiful vistas beyond explanation. Beware, though, the humidity is staggering! Staggering!!
By Kathy Slamp5 years ago in Wander
The Seas of Israel
In thinking of the State of Israel, most people don’t consider The Seas of Israel. Israel conjures up images of arid lands, Bedouins, camels, and ancient ruins. Without a doubt, all of these are in Israel, but within the boundaries of Israel are the Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea, and the Mediterranean. Each of these is unique unto itself both in topography and history. In addition, traveling between them offers some amazing sites as well. Its been my privilege to visit Israel over a dozen times, and each time visiting the seas is a major part of that visit.
By Kathy Slamp5 years ago in Wander
Montenegro - By Kathy Slamp
One of the biggest surprises in visiting the countries near the Adriatic Sea is “discovering” Montenegro! Whether you arrive by land or sea, you will be filled with awe and wonder at the spectacular beauty of this little known country. A seasoned traveler might even compare some of the sites to Alaska’s fjords, yet there are major differences. The mountains around this beautiful little city look black; thus, the early sailors named it Montenegro or the "black mountain."
By Kathy Slamp5 years ago in Wander
Spectacular Glacier Bay
If Disneyland is the “happiest place on earth,” then many people would also say that Glacier Bay is the “most beautiful place on earth”—or at least it is in the World’s Top Ten! If you check most travelers’ “bucket list,” Glacier Bay will always be there somewhere! It is truly a MUST SEE up close and personal.
By Kathy Slamp5 years ago in Wander