Latest Stories
Most recently published stories 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 Slamp6 years ago in Wander
Why Did Greece Birth Democracy?
It was 101 degrees Fahrenheit outside. I spent my final day walking around Athens alone, visiting the Byzantine and Christian Museum and various ruins such as Aristotle’s Lyceum (where the Peripatetic School was founded in 335 BC).
By Allison van Tilborgh6 years ago in Wander
Lightner Museum 2.0
Saint Augustine is the oldest city in the history of colonialism within the United States. But that doesn't mean it has to become antiquity of the past. Director Bob Harper and Curator Barry Myers are working on bringing some new light into a museum established within an old health spa and hotel built by Henry Flagler.
By Heather Wilkins6 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 Slamp6 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 Slamp6 years ago in Wander
First Night in Formia
It was our first night in Formia, the Italian coastal town that became our first home in Europe. After another in a long line of sleepless nights and eye-stingingly early mornings, A’s afternoon nap went into overtime. The cat slept too, curled up in the crook of A’s knees, shielding her eyes with her asymmetrical feet.
By Ryan Frawley6 years ago in Wander
Bordeaux, France
In the attempt to have a more “off the beaten track” experience, I went to Bordeaux instead of Paris for a year during college. While there, we came to call the place “bored-o” for the lack of things to do and see, once we had exploited all we could of the area. The positive side of the experience was that we left as often as possible to see other parts of Europe, which we may not have done had we had Paris at our fingertips. Bordeaux was small, areas of it were extremely run down, and though I loved the African and Spanish influence in the food, dress, and neighborhoods, there were also places I was uncomfortable going.
By Jody Holman6 years ago in Wander
A Dream Realized
It was an old dream; a dream I’d given up on a long time ago. Africa. The dream I’d had longer than any other; one that began long before I met the love of my life and remained long after he left my life; longer than I’ve known my children, who are all past their 3rd decade of life; longer than any of the friends in my life.
By Suzanne Scott6 years ago in Wander
Jaco: Where the Fun and Adventure Never Stops
About an hour’s drive from the Costa Rican capital of San Jose lies the city of Jaco. This is a small coastal, town located in the central Pacific and makes the perfect tropical retreat for adventurous folks. You may want to leave behind your makeup, high heels, and ironed shirts because you will not need them at Jaco! This town is like a tourist magnet. With its pristine beaches, wondrous jungles and challenging surf, there are plenty of adventures you can look forward to.
By Nancy Ahuja6 years ago in Wander
The Big Island, Hawai'i
The island of Hawai’i is called the Big Island for a reason (um, it’s big). Don’t underestimate the time it takes to drive from one end to another (there is no shortcut, you are on Hawai’ian time—the highways only go around and are often backed up), nor the number of things you may want to stop to see on the way (hikes, beaches, carvings, historical sites, shops). Because my family is spoiled and is afforded chances to visit on a regular basis, I have compiled a list of some of our favorite activities.
By Jody Holman6 years ago in Wander
