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ExploreTraveler Presents: Exploring Jordan Via Photo Tour and Guide

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Photo of the Day ~ The Ancient Nabataean City Of Petra

From time to we like to group allot of articles on a single subject, and present them as a small guide. The title under the picture is a link to another post with additional information. Most of the photo’s within this guide are from an area centered around Petra, and the deserts that surround this site. We hope you enjoy this small tour from our own eyes, and just maybe we inspire you to go there for yourself.

In Southwest Jordan you will find an amazing desert, colorful, extremely hot, with rugged mountains and deep canyons. Amid all this natural beauty you will find the city of Petra, built during the time of the Nabataean Kingdom between 100 B.C. to 106 A.D. For years Petra was a major trading center and capital city of the empire of the Nabataean people. Then for centuries it lay in ruin, empty, and forgotten. The city was lost for centuries. Now this beautiful hidden city is a UNESCO World Heritage Center.

Photo of the Day ~ The Bedouin culture of Petra

The Nabataeans occupied Petra till the close of the Roman Empire. The Al B’doul tribe  is said to be among those descended from the Nabataeans, who built the city of Petra.  This Bedouin tribe, the Al B’doul, lived in Petra for more than 170 years. They built their lives among the tombs and caves, feeling a close attachment to the city. Some of the members of the tribe were relocated to a city built just for them near-by. Others in this tribe still lives in the ancient valley, clinging to traditional Bedouin life.

Photo of the Day ~ Crossing the Red Sea in Aqaba, Jordan

To visit the Red Sea at Aqaba, Jordan is a compelling inner drive. Many pass Aqaba by, but here you will find water that is calm and crystal clear. It seems like you can see forever. The Red Sea is a thriving sea with a large variety of amazing marine life. This is a world class snorkeling site. If you enjoy marine life, spend a few hours snorkeling at the Red Sea,  Jordan’s only beach.

Photo of the Day ~ Exploring the desert valley of Wadi Rum

Embark on the adventure of a life time exploring the Valley Of The Moon. At times you can rightfully ask if you are still on planet earth. As you wander through this brutal but astonishing desert, you will see desert colors in the deep oranges. It looks like a freshly painted canvas, painted as only a master artist can do. Put on your sun hat, wrap your head  in a scarf, grab plenty of water,  and let’s explore this amazing and dramatic desert.

Photo of the Day ~ Timeless Splendor in the desert of Wadi Rum

These camels are valuable members of the Royal Desert Forces. The  Bedouins saddle up their camels on a regular basis to reach those areas of the desert that are too remote for trucks and 4 X 4’s to patrol. The camels are also often paraded around for tourists to enjoy. Anyone in the area that has a female camel that needs to be bred, may bring them by the Patrol Headquarters. This is a free service provided by the Royal Desert Forces for residents.

Photo of the Day ~ The Amazing Ruins Of The Greco-Roman City Of Gerasa

At Jerash the first thing you note is the condition of the ruins. What a marvelous site. The city of Gerasa was also called Antioch and is found in the North of Jordan.  This magnificent site shows the quality of the city. It is indeed the best of the Roman ruins we have seen outside of Italy.  You will find the ancient city among green hills and valleys filled with olive, plum, fig, and other fruit trees.

Wadi Rum….Timeless Splendor

Wadi Rum Desert landscapes, where the deep red rocks seem to protrude seamlessly into the dark blue sky. It is a land of fascinating landscapes and timeless treasures. Known as the Valley of the Moon, this amazing valley is cut into the beautiful red sandstone and granite. Timeless splendor, level headed people, and amazing shades of Autumn greet you on your desert exploration.

Photo of the Day ~ Beautiful Jordanian Sunset

Photo of the Day ~ The Lost City Of Petra In Jordan

Deep in the rugged pink sandstone hills, surrounding one of the harshest deserts in the world, you will find one of the Jewels of the ancient world. Welcome to Jordan and the unique city of Petra.

Photo of the Day ~ Adventuring Into The Wadi Rum Desert Of Jordan

This astonishing Red Desert is surrounded by amazing red sandstone mountains and made complete with amazing canyons. Walking through the desert you will see nothing until you come upon a tent of friendly Bedouins inviting you to join them for tea.

Deserts Comes To Life With Tea

The Deserts springs to life, as tea is served. Have you ever considered exploring some of the hottest deserts in the world? How about taking a break and having tea under a goat haired tent in the desert? Have you ever thought that it would be refreshing and make you cooler?

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Part One

This is the magnificent entrance into the city of Petra, where history, ancient stories, folklore, and archaeology all come together in an ancient city, clothed in mystery. The entrance, designed by nature, is narrow and provided security and safety for an ancient people. You have just traveled through the awe-inspiring Valley Of Moses, looking at the amazing mountains of rose, red, and white sandstone, beholding the shadows of the mountains across the desert and then you come to the gateway of this mysterious city, the narrow and magnificent siq. If you look at the photo above, you will see just how enormously tall this entrance is, as both humans and animals appear to be quite small at it’s base.

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Part 2

The sandstone hills hold mysteries over 2000 years old. Mysteries of the fortress built by the Nabatacans.  It seemed like nothing could ever touch it. The shadows of the towering ziq envelope you as you make your way through this mile long winding path and into the city. The first thing you see is the facade of the Treasury. The Treasury was most likely a temple built to the many gods of this enormous civilization. But if you let your eyes feast to either side of this first building, with all it’s grandeur, you will see the many carved quarters and caves that are intricately carved into these amazing sandstone cliffs.

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Part 3

The spectacular amphitheater in Petra is amazing in it size, seating between 6,000-8,000 people. Can you imagine the excitement of the crowd as they watched events in this massive amphitheater? The amphitheater was built previous to the time of the Roman occupation of Petra. This very unique theater was carved into the sandstone rocks.

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Part 4

Magnificent Boulders and cliffs of tinted sandstone greet you as you come near to the city. If you take time to look at the layers of reds, browns, oranges, and yellows of the rocks, cliffs,columns and the tombs themselves, you will be amazed. Because of the uniqueness of the sandstone cliffs that they are carved from, there are no two tombs or facades exactly the same.

The Secret Mysteries Of The Ancient City Of Petra ~ Conclusion

As our five part Petra adventure comes to a close, we take time to look at the upper levels of the Al-Khazneh or The Treasury. Here the mysteries of the lost city grow as we wonder just what this magnificent building carved out of the sandstone cliffs was used for. Most seem to favor that it was some type of a temple for the many gods of Petra after the many invaders of Rome took control, but there is also the theory that in the beginning it was an elaborate tomb.

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A Winter Wonderland In Northern Maine USA

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 A Snow Filled Winter In The Baskahegan Valley In Northern Maine  

The early pioneer families that settled in this beautiful valley would farm in the summer months, saving produce for the long winter months. During the winter months, the men took to  the forest and logging was their passion. One of the favorite trees for this endeavor was the Pumpkin Pines, which were easy to haul since they were close to the streams and other waterways. Old diaries talk about the stumps being so large that a team of Oxen could stand on the stump. At one time, Northern Maine was the logging capital of the world.

With the easy supply of lumber, you will see many beautiful mansions in Northern Maine. Take a winter tour in a horse driven buggy and see all the beautiful houses as they lay buried in the white stuff.  Just outside of the towns are resorts with skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and other winter sports. Take time to enjoy winter like never before.

 Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge In Maine Is One Of The Northernmost National Wildlife Refuges On The Atlantic  Seaboard

Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge has activities year around. There are year around Moose Tours, where you are guaranteed to see a moose, fishing tours, ice fishing trips, hunting in the different seasons, hiking, climbing, wildlife viewing and photography. As the ponds ice over, there is ice skating, as well as near by resorts with a full range of winter activities. If you have never been in an area where you could enjoy winter to the max, you are in for many surprises.

This is a main refuge for migrating birds of all kinds. Here, they are able to feed and nest in a protected area. During different times of the year, you will see birds of prey, waterfowl,song birds and many others. If you enjoy bird watching, this is an excellent place for a bird adventure.

 The Elegant Patterns Of Ice Crystals Are A Growing Masterpiece On Glass  

Can you imagine waking up and looking out the window and seeing ice crystal masterpieces that formed on the window over night? What a delight to see the creative talent of nature. If you have never seen this, you are in for a surprise.

 Fried Haddock  Fish Sandwich Is A Year Around Favorite In Maine 

In Maine, fish sandwiches made from fresh fried Haddock is a favorite. Most eateries in the area serve this state favorite. If you have never tried one, then this is the time to order a fish sandwich made of freshly prepared Haddock. Spring, summer, fall, and winter, this is a must try when you come to Maine.

All the different seasons bring their own delightful activities in Maine. But if you want to enjoy a short winter visit, you can not find a better place than Maine.

 

 

 

 

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 © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved  

Photo Tour Of Jerusalem In Israel

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The Holy City Of Jerusalem In Israel

There is no other city more Holy than Jerusalem. It is considered Holy to the world’s three largest religions, Jews, Christians, and Muslims. The Ancient City is side by side the modern city of Jerusalem. What a privilege to walk her ancient cobblestone streets.

Israel Is A Land Of Ancient Ruins And Ancient Secrets 

No matter where you go, the ancient ruins are everywhere. As the digs increase throughout the region, ancient history comes to life.

Olives, Grape Leaves And Peppers In A Traditional Open Air Marketplace Or Shuk In Jerusalem

The open markets are filled with delightful fresh foods, fruits, vegetables, herbs, and juices. The traditional market places, and cobblestone alleys, have been there for centuries. The deserts are green and blooming, filled with dates, figs, and other fruit trees. All these make their way into the ancient markets of the Old City.

Herbs, Rose, Mint, And Hibiscus, A Few Of The Choices For A Warm Cup Of Tea In Israel

Frankincense, Myrrh And Other Treasures In Old City Of Jerusalem

 Fresh-Squeezed Pomegranate And Orange Juice In The Old City Of Jerusalem  

 Western wall plaza in Old City Jerusalem Israel

The partial remains of the ancient walls of the walled city are everywhere, as are the gates going out from the city. The Eastern Gate remains sealed until the day that the Messiah returns to Jerusalem  through this gate.  On the other side of the gate is a Muslim Cemetery.

 The Eastern Gate Facing The Mount Of Olives In The Old Walled City Of  Jerusalem

The Wailing Wall Is A Place Of Prayer In The Old City Of Jerusalem

Heartfelt Prayers At The Kotel Also Called The “Wailing Wall” In Old City Jerusalem

Mount Zion ~ The City Of David

The Dome Of The Rock On The Temple Mount In The Old City Of  Jerusalem

These are a few of the marvelous scenes from the city of Jerusalem. An ancient city where you can walk in the footsteps of the prophets of old.  This is a land where the ancient is cherished and remembered, while the modern is also important. Many scientific and medical discoveries come out of Israel.

 

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel 

and discover that the world is full of wonderful people.” – ExploreTraveler

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We have a travel tip audio book that you can purchase at Audible –> Here

Happy Travels, 

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   © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved 

Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico Beckons To Beach Lovers Everywhere

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Horses, Warm Weather, And A Perfect Surf At Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico 

Rosarito is a quaint town with many luxury resorts, elegant hotels, and many first class recreational vehicle parks. This has been a mecca for short tourist get-a-ways from San Diego, California USA, being less than 30 miles away. There is also the towm of Medio Camino just south of Rosarito Beach and Baja Malibu to the north of Rosarito. This area has amazing beaches, with sandy beaches just perfect for horseback riding and a strong surf perfect for catching that next wave.

Surfing The Internet In Style At Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico 

Almost anything can be seen south of the border. Horseback riding is a major sight in Baja California, so much so, it seems some people have real skills. This young man was trotting down the sandy beach surfing the internet. Now that takes skill!

 Endless excitement at Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico

The town of Rosarito is a quaint  tourist town that Americans flock to by the thousands. With it’s outstanding beaches, and first class resorts at reasonable rates, it is a magnate for the retired. People on medicare, can hop back into the US for medical care and return home to paradise. All this helps in making tourists from north of the border content and comfortable.

 Romantic Shores Of Rosarito Beach In Baja California Mexico 

Rosarito beaches are beautiful any time of the day. The sunsets over the ocean are spectacular. Couples walk hand in hand down the beach. Romance is in the air.

Another fun place to visit is the Rosarito Underwater Park which is located just offshore.  The park features an artificial reef with the remains of a former Navy ship near by. The wreck is a magnet for divers of all levels. 

Hidden Gems That Make You Fall In Love With The City In Baja California Mexico  

The food in the area is extremely good and the only issue is the large portions. There are many restaurants at the resorts and then there are food trucks painted brightly so as to be easily seen. Mexicans love color and this is just one of the examples of the many colors. Food at the food trucks is extremely delicious, and of course the prices are reasonable.

Shopping For Bargains Is Always Fun In Baja California Mexico

An example of two Mexican women visiting in the sun in front of a market. The Mexicans are very friendly, though you may expect that as the culture as a whole really likes visiting and showing friendship. Notice the beautiful use of color

Sweet Music Of A Man And His Violin In Baja California Mexico

The Mexicans love music, and it is not uncommon for skilled players to be playing for those who enjoy listening.

Tomatillos On The Vine In Baja California Mexico   

Tomatillos make up a positive appearance in most gardens. Tomatillas are often called the Mexican Tomato. They are a bright green when ripe and are covered by a husk. They are usually used in making salsa.

Unique And Beautiful Architecture In Baja California Mexico

This Spanish styling is everywhere in Baja, with it’s arches, courtyards, and red tiled roofs. This is the local style for all levels of housing. High rises and modern architecture are now seen, but there are plenty of small homes to larger ones done in the Spanish styling. Especially in Baja, with it’s magical appearance, these homes make up the norm.

If you are looking for a quick vacation to a tourist wonderland, that is near the border, then Baja California is your perfect answer. The shopping is spectacular and there are bargains galore, the food is amazing, and there is a strong dollar to peso relationship, which is good for Americans.

 

 

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

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Happy Travels,

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  © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved

Beautiful Birds From Around The World

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Do you have any fish? Hungry Pelicans in Oceanside, California USA 

Found in many warmer areas, the Pelican has very few predators. Due to their massive size, there are few animals or birds that are willing to mess with them.  Their fishing skills are exquisite.  These elegant fisherman are amazing to watch in action. If there is fish to be found, they will find them. This fellow was tightening up his belt, due to a fish shortage in California.

 Brandt’s Cormorants nesting on the steep ocean cliffs of Florence, Oregon USA 

Each summer many seabirds come to the Central Oregon Coast to nest.  The beautiful Brandt’s Cormorant are one of the visitors that comes to breed in the massive cliffs and on the many off shore islands. The presence of so many Sea Lions signals that there is plenty of fish in the sea.

 The Majestic Great Blue Heron Of North and Central America

The Great Blue Heron lives In the wetlands throughout North and Central America. You will see them cruising the ocean shores with majestic wing movements. Their style of flight is slow, deliberate, and majestic. When looking around for dinner, this heron stands completely still, absolutely motionless.

 

  The brightly colored world of  The Australian  Lorikeets Is Fascinating

These spectacular are small to medium size parrots with a tongue that feels like a scrub brush. They feed entirely on the nectar of beautiful flowers found in the coastal and wooded rainforests of Australia.  Like all parrots, they have a beautiful voice as they call out to each other.

 Yuen Po Bird Garden keeps with the traditional culture of songbird keeping in Hong Kong 

These  beautiful small to medium song birds are not wild, like the others shown here. However they are found in the tropical forests of Hong Kong. Keeping song birds is a big part of Chinese culture, especially among the older generation. This bird garden is beautiful and the birds are taken in their cages  out daily for a walk, much like we would take a dog for a daily walk.

Beautiful Peacock Found In The Balboa Park In  San Diego, California USA

Only the the males are really called peacocks. They are striking with deep colors and a long tail. The females are referred  to as hens and lack the amazing color tones.

 “It’s A Gull’s Life For Me!” Relaxing Herring Gull In Eastern Maine

Throughout the coastal areas of much of the world, the sea side is full of gulls. This fella has made himself king of the Sea.

Throughout your travels you are almost certain to see beautiful and unique birds to where you are. Just another way to enjoy nature wherever you are.

 

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

and discover that the world is full of wonderful people.” – ExploreTraveler

 @exploretraveler

We have a travel tip audio book that you can purchase at Audible –> Here

Happy Travels,

 ExploreTraveler.com

   © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved

Animal Photo Tour From Around The World

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 Komodo Dragon On Remote Tiomon Island Malaysia

Some of the most exciting things that the Exploretraveler Team does as we travel the world allows us to connect with nature.  We take jungle treks, mountain hikes, river tours, climb trails, and scale ruins. In the midst of everything, we often see unique shots of the animal kingdom.

Did you ever think about real dragons living on earth?  This Malaysian dragon can weigh up to 200 pounds. They are carnivores and are also considered cannibals. As much as a tenth of their diet can be the eating of other Komodo Dragon’s eggs. They eat wild pigs, deer, and other wild animals of the jungle. They are even able to take down an adult Water Buffalo.

 Hungry Monkeys In Singapore

This big guy looks like he is so very hungry in Singapore. Hang on to your lunch or you may make an unwilling donation.

 Formosan Rock Monkey Also Known As The Taiwanese Macaque  

Meet the Taiwanese Formosan Rock Monkey, who are also known as the Formosan Rock Macaque and Taiwanese Macaque. These cute fellas live in the jungles in the western mountain regions of Taiwan. They are the only living monkey native to Taiwan and are usually found between 300 and 12,000 feet. They prefer the jungle forest with it’s mixed hardwoods, mixed grasslands, and bamboo.  This enables them to eat to their heart content.

 Taiwan’s Formosan Rock Macaque Are The Only Monkey Native To Taiwan  

 Hang In There Baby! Formosan Rock Monkey Macaque In Taiwan  

These guys were so fun to watch, but hang on to your camera. The bigger the camera, the bigger the fascination, so if you want to keep it, hang on to it tight.

 This big guy is enjoy his banana!

 The Philippine Sailfin Crested Lizard living Only In The Philippines 

Another one of the interesting animals of the jungle. This one is found only in the Philippines. The Sailfin Crested Lizard is an excellent swimmer. He is so cute when he uses his flat toes to run across the water. Just another amazing wonder in the jungles of Asia.

 Alaskan Red Fox Wants To Play In Cantwell Alaska “Do I Get Out Of The Car?” 

This is the most common fox in Alaska and the largest of the fox family. They like to eat small animals, but also eat fruits and other vegetation. They like to live in family groups, where only one mated pair breeds at a time, with the rest of the clan helping with the babysitting.

 Watch Your Step, The Philippine Sail-fin Dragon Lizard Could Be Above Your Head!

 The Splendor Of Wild Elk Grazing In The Backroads Of Washington USA 

The Moose Struggling  To Find Food During Winter In Alaska

The moose plow through the snow and ice looking for twigs and small tender branches. By the last half of winter this can be hard to find and by spring they are quite hungry and waiting for those first tender shoots.

 Petite Kirk’s dik-dik Antelope  in Eastern South Africa   

The Dik-Dik is the common name for four different species of Antelope and six sub-species in Eastern South Africa. They only weigh from 6 to 13 pounds and are 12 to 15 inches tall. They have a life span in the wild of about 10 years.  You can not miss those eyes, as they stare straight at you. So adorable, but yet they are so wild.

Where are you going next? Everywhere has their own adorable animals that live in the mountains, the jungle, the Savannah, the plains, and they are just waiting for you to take their picture.

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

and discover that the world is full of wonderful people.” – ExploreTraveler

@exploretraveler

We have a travel tip audio book that you can purchase at Audible –> Here

Happy Travels,

 ExploreTraveler.com

 © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved

San Diego California And Her Treasures Of The Sea

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Beautiful Sea Urchins From Grey Tones To Pink

San Diego is the southern most city before crossing the border into Mexico. She and the most northern towns on the Mexican side of the border, are blessed with one of the greatest “Treasures of the Sea,” the Sea Urchin.  This small window of the Pacific, is one of the few places in the world, where you can see the Pink or the Purple Sea Urchin.

The Pink Sea Urchin Is One Of The Most Majestic In The World

The showy pink Sea Urchin is totally magnificent. From the world over, adventurers come just to see the longest living creature on planet Earth. The Pink Sea Urchin can live to be over 200 years old. Then there are those who come to taste it’s spectacular row.

Getting Ready To Take That First Taste

While in many countries this is a delicacy that is well loved, there are many who come to get that first taste. Every year adventures come to San Diego just to taste and see. Will you too, be one who comes? This young man waited in line just to get his first taste of this amazing creature of the deep.

A Vendor Displaying This Beautiful Treasure Of The Sea. 

The vendor is scrapping the inside, which is custard like, so that you can see the actual inside of this magnificent creature.

Creamy On The Inside And Tasty Like Custard

This is a creature so fine, with a taste like nothing else. The closet description would be like custard. Yet, there no words for this amazing opportunity to taste and see.

Will You Come To See This Magnificent Creature Of The Deep? 

Home Of The Freshest Fish And The Spectacular Pink Sea Urchin

The Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is the best fish market in San Diego. Here you will see the freshest fish, and many unique treasures of the deep. It is open every Saturday morning at 8:30 am, however, the line begins to form by 7:30 am.  For up to date information consult their website at:http://thdocksidemarket.com/new/

If you are an adventurer in seek of an adventure, consider a visit to see the longest living creature on earth, and while you are at the market, taste and see how delicious it is.

 

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

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 @exploretravelerWe have a travel tip audio book that you can purchase at Audible –> Here

Happy Travels,

 ExploreTraveler.com

 © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved

Tuna Harbor Dockside Market In San Diego California USA

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This Early Morning Fish Market Setting Up On The Dock

It is very early on Saturday Morning and it is time to head to Fish Harbor Pier located near Seaport Village. There is still some low fog hanging over the harbor. The scene is quite picturesque. The merchants at Tuna Harbor Dockside Market are still buying fish from the local fisherman. The different sellers are setting up for business. Though it is early, we join those in line waiting for the market to open. This is an open air market where the fish are right off the boat. Truly we will leave with the freshest fish in town.

One Of The Fishing Boats Unloading The Catch Of The Night At The Pier

Some of the boats are still unloading fish to the waiting merchants, while others are leaving the area to get their boats cleaned and their nets checked. Most of the fisherman have families that will help with the cleaning and mending of the nets, while the fisherman get a few hours sleep.

The Last Of The Boats Leaving The Doc Area

The Last Of The Merchants Setting Up And Putting Their Fish On Ice

The merchant is holding a rather large Pacific Crevalle Jack (Caranx Caninus). This fish is found in the warm waters from California to Peru.

With the fish now rinsed and laid out on the table for sale, the market is now open for business. We begin to go from fishing table to fishing table. The Saturday morning regulars come early, so as to get first pick of the nights catch.

The Bright Colorful California Sheephead Fish

Because of the deep color of most of the fish on the table, we can only assume that most are at least five or six years old. All California Sheephead are born female and change to males about two-thirds through their nine year life span.

The easiest way to cook sheephead is to fillet the fish. Make an herb butter with herbs, salt, pepper,  and fresh lemon. Spread on the fish. Cook on a lightly greased pan at 400 degrees until the fish flakes from the testing fork. Should be between ten and twelve minutes.

While many do not know this fish, or how to cook it,  it is a very good fish when cooked in this way.

A Table Of  Pacific Crevalle Jack (Caranx Caninus) On Ice And Ready To Sell

This fish can be easily boned and then cubed.  Make a marinate of Ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, garlic, fresh lemon juice, scallions, salt, and  pepper. Marinate for 1-3 hours in the refrigerator. Put on a pan and grill it until flakes from the testing fork. Good served with a salad.

Fresh Caught Tuna Are A Market Favorite And Go Fast

Table Of Fresh Pacific Red Rock Fish

The Pacific Red Rock Fish is different than the one found on the East Coast of America. The Pacific Red Rock Fish is usually marketed as Pacific Red Snapper, however it is not a true Red Snapper. True Red Snapper is found only in the Atlantic Ocean near Mexico.  Both fish are cooked in a similar way.

California Two-Spot Octopus

Octopus is not one of the most widely cooked fish among Europeans and Americans. It is considered a delicacy among the countries of Asia. Asian Americans are usually first inline at the fish market to bring this fish home and prepare it extremely well. Several local restaurants that specialize in fish also have Octopus on the menu. While in San Diego, you will find that there are many places that serve Octopus in extremely delicious ways. Almost every Japanese Restaurant has an Octopus dish on the menu.

Fresh Caught King Crab

Crabs are caught and are sold alive. Crab cakes are a favorite in California. You will find many fish shacks along the beach with delicious crab cakes.

California Spot Prawn/Shrimp Is A Market Favorite

If you enjoy shrimp, what could be better than fresh shrimp? Visit the Restaurant at the end of the Pier for for a large selection of shrimp entrees.  All around the park and village are fish and specialty restaurants.

 

Fresh Farmed Oysters From San Diego Bay

 Sea Urchins Are The Treasure Of The Sea In San Diego California 

People come from all over the world to taste these tiny tasty sea creatures. While at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market, be sure to stop by the small fish shop that serves Sea Urchins in the half shell. Eating fresh out of the shell is like nothing else! It is almost like a custard, not too fishy, and a great experience.

Sweet Creamy Sea Urchin ~ A Mysterious Delicacy Of The Sea!  

Close Up View Of The Inner Custard Of This Outstanding Treasure

San Diego Pier Cafe

The San Diego Pier Cafe is a San Diego landmark and has served lunch and dinner since 1980. It is a full service restaurant has a different featured local fish selection daily. The view is excellent, the atmosphere is amazing, and liquor, beer, and wine are also served.

Small Fish Shack Located At The Market

Loaf & Fish sells some of the best fish sandwiches in San Diego.  The fish can be different weekly, as they use the fresh catch from the fishing boats.

Just One Of Several Delicious Fish Sandwiches At Loaf & Fish

California Sea Lion Can Smell The Fun

A morning at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is a fun and interesting adventure. Ours was made perfect as we spent time looking at the bay. As we were watching, this little fellow came swimming by. He didn’t want to miss out on anything.

If you are in San Diego on a Saturday morning, be sure to check out the fish market on Harbor drive. The market opens around 8:30 am, but the earlier you get there , the more you will see. The line starts forming around 7:30 am. While you are there, take time to explore the park and village market place.  Lunch at the Dockside Market and dinner at one of the Harbor restaurants would be the perfect end to a perfect day. Eat at one that has nice big windows looking out over the bay. San Diego is known for it’s amazing sunsets.

 

 

 

 

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Looking Forward To Chinese New Year And The Year Of The Dog

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 “Chinese New Year” New Decorations, New Clothes And Snacks.  

Asian shops are gearing up for the largest holiday of the year. Asian families are beginning to decorate throughout the world. Now less than 6 weeks away, there is many things to do and plans to make. Those that are traveling need to secure  their travel plans. All Asian families try to come home for New Years if possible. Those that plan to visit any of the Asian countries during this time, get your reservations made. Hotels will be filling fast, airlines will book fast, and costs will soar.

This holiday ranks with Christmas in the West. People are out looking for new clothes for the celebration, and the children have visions of their favorite treats.  During this time you will see Dragon Boat Races in some places, and parades filled with lanterns during the great Lantern Festival. China Towns all over the world will stop what they are doing and celebrate during this time. If there are no funds for Asia this year, check out your closest China Town for their dates and times.

Chinese New Year’s Eve Feast Is A “Must Do” Dinner

Chinese New Year’s Eve Feast is attended by the whole family. For most families, now is time to plan this years “Reunion Dinner.” Relatives that you haven’t seen since last year are coming. Every cook is busy planning, as this is the most important dinner of the year.  Special dishes with lucky meanings will be on the menu. At the top of the list are spring rolls, dumplings, and fish. Stores are well stocked early on so that every family can get what they need. Fish will, in most Asian countries, be a last minute buy. Only the freshest fish is good enough for this dinner.

Plenty Of Candy For The Children Is A Necessity

Every child is dreaming about all the candies and red envelopes they may get. Excitement starts early, as the adults begin to prepare for this grand event.

Small Towns And Large Cities Will be Decorated In The Color Red

Red, the color of fire, is the symbol of good luck, joy, and prosperity. Red is found throughout all holidays, but especially the New Year. A Red envelope is given to family and friends with money inside during this time. Throughout the up coming season every business and home is decked out in red, wishing all their customers, friends, family, and neighbors “Happy New Year.”

Hotels And Restaurants Shout Out “Happy New Year” With Their Lobbies Decked In Red

Are you ready to celebrate Chinese New Year? If you are the host, then the world knows how busy you will be these next few weeks. As for those of you that are traveling, be sure to make all your reservations and travel plans fast. It is already getting late.  Things fill up fast on Chinese New Year! For those who need to rent a room or hall in a restaurant, if you haven’t done it yet, you need to get your reservation in. Many people book things a year a head of time. This is a busy but happy time of year, as the Asian world prepares for Chinese New Year.

 

 

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Animals At Work And Play Around The World

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When The Camels And Their Owners Are  Not Busy…..It Is Time To Laugh

Camels are used as Transportation throughout the Middle East. Here are camels that are used to transport adventurers to the top of Petra, in Jordan. When these camels are not busy, both they and their handlers take time to play. This handler had talent and brought many smiles to those watching.

ExploreTraveler Team On An Aventure In Petra, Jordan

The Exploretravler Team, like other adventurers, often us the local means of travel when climbing ruins or trekking long distances. Camels are considered the ships of the desert.

Resting From Their Labors In The Wadi Rum Desert Of Jordan

Working camels work hard and the handlers know that they need frequent breaks in the hot desert climate. These camels are taking advantage of a much deserved break.

 Nomadic Bedouin Cowboys Of The Jordan Desert 

In the hot deserts, they do use old pick-up trucks to patrol the desert, but there are many places that only the animals can safely get too.  This is a patrol of Bedouin Cowboys riding the desert, keeping law, and keeping it safe. They are a major part of the local law-enforcement in the desert.

 Horse Trekking To The Top Of The Active Taal Volcano In The Philippines 

Many people choose to trek to the top of the volcano, but others are not able to make the climb. These horses are provided for adventurers that are not wanting, or simply can not, make the climb to the Taal Volcano in The Philippines.

 Brothers Work And Play With Their Carabao Water Buffalo In The Philippines  

These brothers were given a young Carabao Water Buffalo. The children and the buffalo are raised together and become best friends.  Then as they both grow, they learn to work, travel, and play together.

 The Good Luck Of A Mahout And His Elephant In Kanchanaburi Thailand. 

Much like the Water Buffalo in the Philippines, when a young boy is small he is given his elephant. He cares for it, often sleeps in the stable at night and the two grow close. As they grow, they will learn to work as a team in Thailand. The child becomes a Mahout and the Elephant grows up with him. Long before the child is a man, they will begin to work. This same Elephant will be his best friend throughout life. They will become a bonded adult working team for the rest of their lives.

This team Is Racing In The Iditarod Race In Alaska USA

The teams are shown racing here, but at other times in Northern Alaska they provide transportation of goods to those who live in the back country and also provide humanitarian services as needed. Though the snowmobile has taken over a lot of what they used to do, there are some places that only the dogs can get too. In emergencies that happen during white out blizzard conditions, the handler can safely trust his trained dogs to stay on the path to safety.

Working Animals Around The World

Many of us may not think of animals as workers, but they are used for many things. Seeing Eye dogs are maybe the most common, though that is changing as they are being used as companion dogs for the elderly, hearing dogs, diabetic dogs, seizure dogs, balance dogs for those with difficulty walking,  and some are using small horses and other animals for some of the above. On ranches, dogs and llamas guard flocks and dogs herd the sheep and goats.

All over the world people have used animals as companions and co-laborers in many challenging places. These are just a few of our photos of animals, and their handlers,  at work, rest, and play.

 

 

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 “Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel 

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