Il Palio de Siena
Il Palio is a historical and important horse racing event that takes place in Siena, Italy, and is a celebration that is not easily forgotten. Annually, on the 2nd of July and the 16th of August, thousands gather for the evening festivities the day before the race, and for the main event itself. The very first Il Palio was run on 16 August 1656 and in 1701 it was dedicated to Madonna di Provenzano. Connected to the Contradas (districts) of Siena, each contrada is represented in the race. Originally there were ninety-five, but today about seventeen remain, of which approximately ten participate in Il Palio.
Europe - Editor - 09 June 2008
A Tour of the Lava Beds National Monument
On 12 November 1925, the Lava Beds National Monument, located in California, became a United States National Monument. Its significance to the country is due to it being the biggest collection of lava tube caves that can be found in North America and it is not only geologically vital but historically important. Lava Beds National Monument is a diverse desert landscape that was created by the force of volcanoes and decorated by the gentle hand of nature.
South America - Editor - 04 June 2008
Atacama Desert – Dry but not Desolate
Alonso de Ercilla was quoted in the 1569 publishing of “La Araucana”, describing the Atacama Desert in Chile: “Towards Atacama, near the desert coast, you see a land without men, where there is not a bird, not a beast, nor a tree, nor any vegetation.” And this description is not far from the truth. It is a desert that puts the Death Valley in California to shame, as it is fifty times drier and approximately twenty million years of age. It is truly the driest place on earth. It is also one of the most beautiful places, and well worth the visit while in Chile.
Pacific - Editor - 02 June 2008
A Marvelous Holiday in Hawke’s Bay
Situated on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Hawke’s Bay boasts more than 2,200 hours of sunshine each year. The sunshine factor, together with varied landscapes of indescribable beauty and loads of exciting activities for the whole family, makes Hawke’s Bay a popular all-year-round holiday destination for New Zealanders and international tourists alike.
