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Time Traveling: Planning Your Next Civil War Visit

Feb 282012

May is finally upon us, and summer will be here before we know it. And that can mean only one thing – vacation time! Backyard barbecues, splashing in the pool, lounging in the hammock, hiking around a Civil War park…

Hiking around a Civil War park? For summer vacation? Am I serious? You bet I am!

Visiting a Civil War park, or any historic site for that matter, can be a great addition to any summer vacation plans. In fact, planning a trip to one or more historic sites can make for a great vacation all by itself any time of year.

I’ve done this myself from time to time. During spring break my junior year in high school I flew out to meet my sister in Tennessee, after which the two of us drove to Virginia and crammed in as many Civil War sites as we could in one week. The following year, while most of my fellow graduates hit the beaches at South Padre Island the first week of June, I hit I-40 East in my sometimes reliable, no-air-conditioning Mustang II, headed back to more of those transfixing historic sites.

I must have had the Civil War bug pretty bad to choose monuments and markers over beaches and bikinis. To this day, that probably remains the most superbly disorganized trip I’ve ever taken. And I’m still amazed that that car held up long enough to get me home. I clearly remember the stops along the side of the road every 100 miles or so to add another quart of oil. And the relief I always felt when the engine actually started once again, when I was alone in some remote area of a park with the sun going down. But it was great fun. Well, most of it was.

Much of what I did and saw on that trip was spontaneous, “get out the map and let’s see where I’ll go today” sort of planning. And while that can be fun, a little more advanced planning isn’t a bad idea either. A visit to a Civil War site can be both enjoyable and educational, whether you’re by yourself or with a large group. It’s worth a little time to plan ahead.

Don’t think you’ll have a lot of time to visit? That’s okay – you can still plan ahead for the time that you will have. Don’t think you’re heading someplace that has any war-related history? You might be surprised! The war touched more areas of the country, including what today is the western United States, than is generally known. A little advanced snooping around might just turn up a site or two where you’re headed that is related to the war in some way. You just never know until you look. So let’s get started on planning your next (or first) Civil War visit.

Ready, Set… Where We Going?

Believe it or not, you’ve got several questions to answer when you start planning your visit. First off, where are you going to go? How much time will you have once you’re there? Will this be your first visit to the site, or have you been there many times before?

Are you going to spend all your time at a single historic site, or are you going to split what time you have between more than one? Are you more of a museum person, or would you rather spend your time tramping through woods and fields? Maybe a little of both? If you’re visiting a battlefield park, have you read up some on the battle? Or is it all brand new to you? Did you have a relative who fought there? If so, do you know what outfit he was in?

These are just a few things to get you started thinking. How you answer questions like this can help you decide how to plan your visit.

Take Gettysburg for example. Someone visiting America’s most popular Civil War attraction for the first time will probably have a much different agenda than someone making, say, their 20th trip to the area. Especially when it comes to Gettysburg, a first-time visitor could easily wind up feeling overwhelmed by all there is to see and do. Museums, bookstores, antique shops, gotcha shops, historic buildings, restaurants. And that’s just the town – we haven’t even made it to the park yet! (And did I mention that it’s a big park?)

Let’s say you’ll be in the Washington D.C. area for a few days and you’d like to drive up to Gettysburg when you have some free time. You’ve never been to the park before. You’ve recently become interested in the battle and know a little about it, but not a great deal. You figure you’ll have about half a day or so to spend there, and you have to decide what to see and what to leave out.

How to approach this? Well, you could just hop in the car and drive to Gettysburg, and wing it once you get there. Maybe you could just drive out in the park and look around, stopping every so often to read the various markers and monuments, and snap a few pictures.

Can you learn about a battle like this? Well yes, it’s possible. But it can take a lot of time. And unless you already have a reasonably good grasp of the events that took place, it might all be a bit confusing, especially at first. Even getting your directional bearings can be a challenge at some parks if you’re not familiar with the area. (Sometimes it’s a challenge even if you are familiar with the area. As many times as I’ve been to Shiloh for example, there are still times when I get turned around among all those trees.)

About the Author

Samet Bilir writes about antiques and collectibles, arts, paintings and a lot of other things, such as Civil War battlefield relics. To read more articles from him click this link.

Antarctic heroes: Exhibition for Captain Scott

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Feb 012012

Photo by EliDuke

The National Library of Scotland plays host to a new exhibition this January that is focused on the extraordinary race for the South Pole. The exhibition, which features artifacts as well as photographs and newspaper clippings, centres on the expedition led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott, an English adventurer who, along with his small team, tragically died before returning from his quest. Scott’s trials and heroism have been celebrated in the 100 years since the expedition.

Visitors heading to Edinburgh to see the National Library’s exhibition can stay in one of many good hotels Edinburgh has to offer. Once they have booked into their accommodation of choice, visitors can pay the National Library a visit and find out more about Captain Scott, his team and the expedition itself.

The exhibition displays collections of diary extracts from Scott, copies of letters and other materials that tell the expedition’s story and for the first time reveal more of the characters involved and the conditions they faced.

The exhibition also helps to provide a glimpse into the context of the story. At the time – 1912 – the South Pole had not been fully explored and remained a great challenge for adventurers. Getting there was a mission that couldn’t be taken lightly, but the idea of such a journey intrigued the general public. Many famous companies also wanted to be associated with such a spectacle of heroism.

Brands such as Heinz and Fry’s Chocolate were both involved in funding Scott’s final expedition in the hope of promoting their own products through this adventure. This association can be seen with the paraphernalia viewable at the exhibition.

The journey to reach the South Pole was long and harrowing. In total, the expedition sought to cover 1,600 miles of ground there and back. Scott’s final push towards his destination was to take in trekking, while hauling sledges, through a challenging frozen environment.

On his way to the Pole, Scott had support from groups of men who laid provisions in caches to provide for his return. By the time it came to the last push towards the Pole, Scott’s team consisted of five men. With Scott were Edgar Evans, army officer Captain Oates, Henry Bowers and Dr Edward Wilson.

Not only did Scott and his team have to contend with frostbite, harsh weather and gradually depleting rations and other supplies, but they were also caught in an international race to be the first group to reach the South Pole. Scott’s rival was a Norwegian explorer, Amundsen.

Unfortunately for Scott and British hopes, it was Amundsen’s team who reached the South Pole first and planted their flag before Scott could reach the area. When Scott got there, his team’s hopes sank and the journey back was even more laborious. Ultimately, physical exhaustion, illness and a lack of supplies proved the undoing of Scott’s team. Unable to continue and confined to their tents by a blizzard, Scott and the remainder of his party never made it home.

While the expedition ended in tragedy, Scott’s last journey was hugely significant to our understanding of the South Pole. For example, Scott’s team collected rocks later analysed by geologists. Scott and his men bravely faced extremely harsh conditions and their heroism helped to define a romantic era of adventure and exploration.

About the Author

This content has been created by Saul Malpass an aspiring travel writer who currently works on behalf of www.lodging-world.com. Saul strives to make his writing captivating and give information to the reader about upcoming events in the UK.

Photos of India

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Dec 262011

The Republic of India is the world’s second ranked country in total population. With over 1.2 billion people at the close of 2011, it is the world’s most populous democracy.

It is also one of the fastest growing economies, attracting investors from around the world. Currently the ninth largest economy (based on nominal GDP) in the world, it remains vastly under developed with a large population in poverty. Poor public health, and challenges due to high levels of illiteracy, remain economic drags despite the immense potential.

Rich in its culture and history, India continues its rapid growth. Investors bullish on India’s future point to its abundant natural resources, reduced import tariffs, and its strong banking and financial sector.

As the Republic of India continues to grow as a world power, so too does the need for photos of India.

A Rich History

The first major civilization in India was the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished between 3300 and 1300 BCE. The country broke into disparate parts after being conquered by the Maurya Empire. After being united again in the fourth century CE under the Gupta Empire, a several century Golden Age period began for India.

Indian culture, and its religions (Buddhism and Hinduism), spread out of India throughout the Asian continent due to India’s growing influence. The religion of Islam arrived in India during the eight century, and became politically dominant by the 11th century.

India was once again conquered in the seventeenth century when the English won the battles of Plassey and Buxar. Between 1857 and 1947, the Indian rebellion fought to drive the British from India, where it once again controlled its country.

The rebellion included small Indian tribes fighting on behalf of the Japanese during World War II, while the majority of the Indian army was under the control of the English.

Photography of India

Veteran photographer Steve Estvanik has one of the largest collections of stock photography covering the Republic of India. Steve’s travels have taken him across the country, where he visited India’s poverty stricken villages, its bustling cities, and captured in photographs its many landmarks and monuments.

Steve’s classic Taj Mahal photo as seen through a gateway arch captures the beauty of one of India’s most important monuments. According to Wikipedia, this jewel of Muslim art was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

Constructed by thousands of artists between 1632 and 1653, the Taj Mahal was granted status as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983.

Steve Estvanik’s travels also took him to the country’s many villages where he was afforded the opportunity to photograph the true culture of India.

Estvanik’s photography brought the world the architecture and customs of India, from its religious ceremonies to its long practiced tribal dances.

His photo of a classic Indian dance is licensed through many stock agencies, and is popular not only for its content but also its wonderful colors and exacting sharpness.

Warmpicture hosts thousands of images related to Indian culture, many of which were captured by Steve Estvanik.

Partnering with Universities

We are proud at Warmpicture to partner with Universities interested in using our images for educational purposes. Universities interested in using our photos of India free of charge may contact Warmpicture for more information.

5 Most Scenic Locations in the World

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Nov 292011

If you’ve been around the world, you know exactly what I mean when I say that there are more magnificent sights on this planet than you could possibly imagine.

If you’ve ever wanted to drop everything for a couple of weeks and

Great Barrier Reef

visit one of the most gorgeous locations on earth, you’ll want to check out some of these places. Below is a list of some of the most scenic locations you’ll ever see.

Be sure to bring your camera. You will want to take lots of photographs to remember your travels by.

The Great Barrier Reef, AustraliaJust off the eastern coast of Australia, the Great Barrier Reef has over 600 islands to check out. Not only do all of the blues, greens and great beaches give you a lot to be amazed at, you’ll also have plenty of clear water to wallow in.
Canadian Rockies
Canadian Rockies, CanadaWith plenty of mountains, canyons, caves and open water to explore, you’ll think you’re in a picture it’s so beautiful. An extension of the North American Rockies mountain range, the Canadian Rockies are actually a bit older than the North American Rockies. Check out some pictures of them and you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.
Machu Picchu, PeruThis was the site of an ancient city that was discovered only about 100 years ago by an archeologist from Yale University. Machu
Machu Picchu

Picchu is believed to have once been a sacred place, but is now just a shell of its former self. This is a very popular tourist attraction, and you can see just how large and magnificent the city was and still is.
Sogne Fjord, NorwayQuite possibly the largest fjord in the world, Sogne Fjord is a must for nature and small village lovers. With a combination of gorgeous
Sogne Fjord

villages, equally nice cliffs and crystal clear water make this a great place to visit. If you ever wanted to visit an old-time sea and fishing village, this is it.
Yosemite Valley, CaliforniaCalifornia is always a great place to visit because of the warm climate and abundance of quality towns and scenery. Yosemite
Yosemite Valley

Valley is perhaps the best looking site out of them all. The lush landscape and mountains that accompany it add to the wondrous scenery. Since there are plenty of hiking trails and mountain faces to climb, the avid adventurer will have no trouble finding things to do.

These locations are some of the most beautiful locations you’ll ever lay eyes upon. If you’re planning a trip soon, don’t forget to check out some of these locations!

- Joe Petchonka, Michigan Buick dealers

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

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Jun 172011

The Walt Disney World Resort outside of Orlando Florida is one of the world’s most popular family vacation destinations. With Five Star restaurants, entertainment, shopping, and award winning resort hotels, Walt Disney World Resort is clearly more than a collection of theme parks.

Staying on property at Disney is a huge convenience. Monorails, boats, and buses transport resort guests to and from the parks. It is quite possible to spend several days enjoying the huge Florida resort without once getting into your car and fighting traffic.

The Disney resorts also provide 24 hour security and surveillance, keeping your family safe and letting you worry about things like, “How many times will my kids make me ride Space Mountain?”

Disney divides its resorts into three distinct price ranges: Value, Moderate, and Luxury. A Value resort can be had for less than $100 per night during specials, and is comparable to a Comfort Inn or Holiday Inn Express. A Moderate resort generally ranges from $125 to $200 per night. The rooms are a slight upgrade over the Value resorts, and are noted for having beautiful grounds to explore.

A Luxury resort can cost anywhere from $175 to over $500 per night depending on the time of season, and the size of the room.

All Disney rooms are known for being clean and comfortable. But the Luxury resorts feature large, beautiful rooms and often spectacular views. Location is an important criteria for selecting a Disney resort. Not surprisingly the Luxury resorts often provide the most favorable locations.

For instance the Contemporary Resort is within walking distance to The Magic Kingdom. The Grand Floridian is one monorail stop from The Magic Kingdom.

Several Disney Luxury resorts adorn what is known as The Boardwalk, a long stretch of boardwalk which connects several resort hotels, restaurants, and clubs.

Expect to find entertainers along the boardwalk, carnival games, and counter service eateries. The Boardwalk borders the World Showcase entrance to Epcot Center. If you love Epcot, this is the area you want to stay.

The award winning Swan and Dolphin resorts are located here, and hold the distinction of being the only Disney property resorts not actually owned by Disney. They are actually owned by the Starwood corporation.

A short 10-minute walk separates the Swan and Dolphin from Epcot Center. The Disney Studios are a 20-minute walk in the opposite direction, but I recommend the easier 10-minute boat ride down the river.

Entertainment abounds along the boardwalk, with excellent dining, entertainment, games, boat rides across the lake, and more. Kouzzina (formerly Spoodles) and The Flying Fish are two excellent restaurants along the boardwalk which must be experienced at least once.

The Swan and Dolphin rooms (over 2000 of them) are spacious, clean, and modern looking, with a turquoise theme prevalent. The resort was designed by famous architect Michael Graves. Of particular note are the “Heavenly Beds,” which guests rave about.

The pillow topped mattresses are incredibly comfortably, allowing you to instantly slip into sleep after a day in the parks. The 250 thread count sheets add to the luxury. Each room provides a 32-inch flat panel television and high speed internet access.

If the rooms don’t get you into complete relaxation, there is the Mandara Spa on property. Feeling active? Stay in shape with two on site health clubs, jogging trails, and four tennis courts. Need to get away from the kids for a while? Take advantage of the fully supervised Camp Dolphin Club for ages 3-12. With games, arts and crafts, and movies, they will hardly know you are gone.

A large pool is on site complete with a striking waterfall, a water slide, a beach of white sand, and poolside dining. Dining options throughout the resort are top notch. Besides sandwiches, salads, and counter service, there is also the nationally acclaimed Don Shula’s Steakhouse and the famous Blue Zoo Restaurant.

Having experienced this resort, I believe it compares favorably to the top Disney resorts on property, and can often be had for a less expensive price. Teachers and government employees should check for notable discounts offered from time to time. The location is fantastic, the resort area beautiful. What more can you ask for?

Do yourself and your family a favor. If you love Disney, check out the Swan and Dolphin resorts outside of Epcot Center.

- Dan Padavona, Warmpicture

Disney’s Gran Fiesta Tour

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Mar 042011

In 2007 El Rio del Tiempo, a dark ride within the Mexico Pavilion of Epcot Center, was changed to The Gran Fiesta Tour. Prior to the change, the boat ride took guests on a tour of Mexican history and culture.

I used to joke that it was “A Mexico Small World” because the dolls and animatronic figures reminded me of Small World so much. Video was a large part of the presentation as guests journeyed through the ride. However the video appeared very dated, as in circa-1970s dated, and a rehab was in order.

El Rio del Tiempo received more than a rehab. It was nearly a complete re-imagination once it reopened as The Gran Fiesta Tour. The stars of the attraction became The Three Caballeros – Donald Duck, Jose, and Panchito. This made the attraction more kid friendly. But for many fans, the ride took a decided turn for the worse.

It’s hard to find much Mexican history or culture in the new version. Instead it seems like a frantic attempt at humor, which borders on annoying after a few minutes of Donald Duck’s antics. Nothing against Mister Duck of course.

The good news is the ride is a fast loading and generally has short lines (big surprise). It’s still a nice ride to take now and then, but I don’t think it captures the charm of the original. A few wonderful elements remain. The beginning of the ride takes the boats past the San Angel Inn restaurant, which is wonderfully night themed. Boats then drift through the fog, and at this point the ride has a very nice ambient to it. The ending of the ride is also very well done, as the boats drift under a fireworks display over Mexico City. But this is a holdover from the original El Rio del Tiempo.

People seem to come up on both sides of this debate. Some favor the original, some the new version. What do you think? Is there anything you would do to change the new version?

Ready, Set… Where We Going?

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