Global Warming: 10 Vanishing Wonders

by Neil Woodburn on

Winter tends to bring more articles about global warming because there is less of it; winter, that is.

Last Monday we referenced a National Geographic Adventure article about the changing face of Greenland as a result of global warming. Yesterday I came across a similar article about a similar theme. But instead of focusing on a singular place, 10 Wonders of the Vanishing World educates us about ten places around the globe which Observer Science Editor Robin McKie tells us “we can no longer take for granted.” Since we love to travel, he also tells us how to get there (before, of course, they disappear).

This list of endangered places is both iconic and sobering…

The snows of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – expected to disappear if current trends continue
Skiing in Kitzbuhel, Austria – won’t be possible in 20 years
The wildebeest migration in east Africa – unlikely if the grassy plains turn to desert
Glacier National Park, United States – expected to be glacier free by 2030
The Maldives, Indian Ocean – may disappear entirely under water

Sure, there are naysayers out there who will argue that current trends won’t continue. And, I wish I could believe them. But in the meantime, I have a few more adventures to cross off my list of things to see before either I turn to dust, or they do.

Word for the Travel Wise (01/06/07)

by Adrienne Wilson on

Earlier today I was listening to KPFK 90.7 FM online during their Afro-Dicia program with D.J. Nnamdi and as I was swaying to the sounds of who knows what African artists from what countries next thing I know I was all ready with bags packed to leave tomorrow. (Wait, my bags are always packed.) This music and my friend’s recent trip tales combined are too much to handle right now. If you’re on a tight budget or don’t see Africa happening this year at least tune in on Saturdays to hear some good music from the continent. It’s not quite the same, but I rest assured you will enjoy it very much.

Today’s word is a Swahili word used in Tanzania:

kesho – tomorrow

Masai-Mara has a section devoted to useful Swahili and Kenya Travels has a similar list, but to catch the missing words between the two I suggest looking at them both. The Kamusi Project is the internet’s only living Swahili dictionary which has been suspended due to funding issues. Sad, seeing it seems like one of the best sources to learning the lang, but the if you’re willing to donate a few dollars you can help keep the website alive. To learn basic background facts about Swahili check out Wikipedia. Did you know the name Swahili comes from the plural of Arabic word sahel (singular) or its plural sawahil meaning “boundary” or “coast?” Just one cool fact I discovered during the first lesson I taught.

Past Swahili words: unasemaje, simu , asubuhi, zaidi, nzuri

Africa Bargains

by Adrienne Wilson on

Although today isn’t my day for our Photo of the Day feature, I caught sight of this sign picture and had to pass it on. If you ever felt intimidated in the market place or too shy to bargain in Africa; this sign clears the fog. They bargain in Africa. Taken in South Africa by Demonterious, there are many other sign photos, people shots and miscellaneous Africa shots. In his blog he describes his adventures being on tour with the band, AFAR for the first time in strange lands. It’s by no means a travel blog, but it is worth a read for the small hidden nuggets of travel information on South Africa. The band looks to be headed towards Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe as well which means if you’re really interested in touring with them you should probably go ahead and bookmark the blog now. Also, check out the blog of my close pal, Richard Johnson, who plays keyboard for the band and has some additional photos floating around as well.

Learn How to be a Traveling Webmaster

by Adrienne Wilson on

Roadjunky Guides really work hard at trying to help you work a little less. Not that they’re lazy vagabonds or anything of the sort, but if they can help find ways for you to assume the position as one then so be it. No, but seriously we’ve all thought about throwing in the towel on our place of employment to replace it with a lighter work load that even allows one to travel. Don’t try lying to say that you haven’t because I’ll never believe you. What I believe doesn’t matter. It’s about what I know and I tell you this, their step-by-step info on how to be a traveling webmaster could be your tutorial and ticket to Tonga, Thailand or Tanzania. I’ve always thought with a little extra time and dedication I could tighten up some of my own web design and related skills and each day I try though my progress is still too slow to ditch all my real gigs for life on the easy road. Should you have some time to spare and have considered delving into the world of web design, but haven’t a clue where to start, I’m telling you to start here. They’re going to put you to more sources to help you out, but they break it down to the basics much like About.com with some extra added flair!

Word for the Travel Wise (11/17/06)

by Adrienne Wilson on

A good friend of mine is heading to Africa soon and while I sit wishing I too could journey to the land, I know he will bring back enough good stories to keep entertained for a minute. If I’m not mistaken, one of the countries in which he will visit is Tanzania. Lucky, dog… This word goes out to you and all your pals making the long trip over with you.

Today’s word is a Swahili word used in Tanzania:

nzuri – good

Masai-Mara has a section devoted to useful Swahili and Kenya Travels has a similar list, but to catch the missing words between the two I suggest looking at them both. The Kamusi Project is the internet’s only living Swahili dictionary which has been suspended due to funding issues. Sad, seeing it seems like one of the best sources to learning the lang, but the if you’re willing to donate a few dollars you can help keep the website alive. To learn basic background facts about Swahili check out Wikipedia. Did you know the name Swahili comes from the plural of Arabic word sahel (singular) or its plural sawahil meaning “boundary” or “coast?” Just one cool fact I discovered during the first lesson I taught.

Past Swahili words: unasemaje, simu , asubuhi, zaidi