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# Continental Divine

Wonders of Wanderlust

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## Posts

- [Call of the Wild in the Seychelles Archipelago](https://continental-divine.com/call-of-the-wild-in-the-seychelles-archipelago/) - In the middle of the Indian Ocean lies an archipelago of 115 islands scattered like giant skipping stones across 1.4 million square kilometers of ocean: the Seychelles. These disparate islands fall largely into two groups: 41 “inner” granitic islands and 74 remote “outer” coral islands or atolls.
- [Sinterklaas vs. Santa Claus and Other ‘Merry-time’ Traditions](https://continental-divine.com/sinterklaas-vs-santa-claus-and-other-merry-time-traditions/) - Many traditions this merry time of year have European origins, though the United States has added to them via storytelling and commercialism. Germany created Christmas trees and markets among other traditions, England caroling and the most famous seasonal poem, and the Netherlands Sinterklaas, who became known as Santa Claus in America.
- [Summer of Dreams in Boroughs of London](https://continental-divine.com/summer-of-dreams-in-london/) - Spending a summer in London was one of the best things I ever did. This metropolis, including the City of London and 32 boroughs, has a neighborhood feel and everything you can and cannot imagine.
- [Tea, Motorbikes and Dragons in Hong Kong, Indonesia and Vietnam](https://continental-divine.com/tea-motorbikes-and-dragons-in-hong-kong-indonesia-and-vietnam/) - While in the same geographic region, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Vietnam could not be more different. Think East meets West capitalism, Muslim and Buddhist influences, respectively.
- [Charades and Escapades in Antigua of the Caribbean](https://continental-divine.com/charades-and-escapades-in-antigua-of-the-caribbean/) - Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island nation in the Eastern Caribbean archipelago, is known for spectacular white and pink sand beaches (365 for every day of the year), clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, rich sea life, a rainforest and frigate bird sanctuaries. As well, this little hot spot is a little-known foodie hot spot with outstanding European restaurants and creole cuisine. The latter, inherited from early Arawak and Carib settlers, is well-maintained in spite of British occupation for nearly 400 years.
- [Whirlwind Tour of Doha, Qatar in Virtual Sauna](https://continental-divine.com/whirlwind-tour-of-doha-qatar-in-virtual-sauna/) - Qatar is the first Arab nation to host the World Cup and the fourth wealthiest country in the world by GDP per capita. While culturally part of the Middle East, Qatar sits in West Asia geographically. It is a peninsula of 11,500 square kilometers with a long coastline on the western Arabian Gulf. Qatar has a population of 3 million – only 500,000 of which are Qatari – and represents 200 nationalities! Doha is its uber modern capital.
- [Taking Bites of The Big Apple of New York City](https://continental-divine.com/taking-bites-in-and-out-of-new-york-city/) - Start spreading the news ... The Big Apple of New York City is ripe to enjoy again and never tasted so good. The city that never sleeps remains one of the world's cultural paradises. New York City will always have its charm, energy and vibrancy in spite of reality checks with humanity.
- [Cruising the Inside Passage of the 'Last Frontier' of Alaska](https://continental-divine.com/cruising-the-inside-passage-and-last-frontier-of-alaska/) - A cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage -- a network of waterways, glaciers and coastal towns -- shows that "Seward's folly," referring to the U.S. purchase of the land from Russia in 1867, was a smart move. The 49th and largest U.S. state is Mother Nature's (and once my own mother's) paradise.
- [Football a Go Go, Tango a No Go in Buenos Aires](https://continental-divine.com/football-a-go-go-tango-a-no-go-in-buenos-aires/) - At the turn of the 21st century, I learned two things about Argentina: never get in the way of football fans or learn tango from an instructor a foot shorter than you. If so, pray that Argentina wins and that no one else is watching, respectively.
- [Animal Portraits on Safari in Tanzania](https://continental-divine.com/animal-portraits-on-safari-in-tanzania/) - From the common wildebeest and zebra to the rare African wildcat and black rhino, Tanzania has one of the highest concentrations of animals in the world and some of its best game parks. Here are fascinating facts about some of its animals that my sister and I learned on safari.
- [Safari of a Lifetime in Tanzania](https://continental-divine.com/safari-of-a-lifetime-in-tanzania/) - Tanzania in East Africa is among the most biodiverse countries in the world, especially in terms of large mammal intensity. It is home to arguably the world’s best game parks, including elephant-laden Tarangire, baboon-filled Lake Manyara rainforest and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Ngorongoro Crater with an estimated 30,000 animals and the Serengeti, where the migration of about 3 million wildebeest occurs.
- [Royal Happiness in Copenhagen, Denmark](https://continental-divine.com/royal-happiness-in-copenhagen-denmark/) - The small Scandinavian powerhouse of Denmark always ranks in the top 10 in the United Nations World Happiness Report. During a business trip to Copenhagen in June, I was reminded why. It’s clean, efficient, safe, socially minded, sustainable and technology-driven with high trust among its citizens, high quality of life and values centered upon honesty and equality. It has free education and an advanced health care system. The Danes are polite, helpful, friendly and good-humored. What’s not to love?
- [Horsing Around in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan of Central Asia](https://continental-divine.com/horsing-around-in-uzbekistan-and-kyrgyzstan-of-central-asia/) - The Uzbek capital of Tashkent shows its Soviet and Persian pasts and cultural Muslim present. The horse country of Kyrgyzstan has a Soviet-esque capital, Bishkek, and pristine Lake Issyk-Kul, where eagles soar, horses run free and snow-capped mountains stretch as far as the eyes can see.
- [Motley (Grand) Cru of Bordeaux](https://continental-divine.com/motley-grand-cru-of-bordeaux/) - The famed wine region of Bordeaux, France is full of gastronomic delights and even unexpected surprises ... think of a private, behind-the-scenes tour of a Grand Cru estate, including a barrel tasting and blending lesson!
- [Outside Boundaries and Inside a Volcano in Iceland](https://continental-divine.com/outside-boundaries-and-inside-a-volcano-in-iceland/) - Iceland is a Nordic country-island in northwestern Europe known as the “land of fire and ice.” With 200 volcanoes and 600 hot springs, no wonder geothermal and hydroelectric energy allow it to have 99.96 percent renewable energy. That's good news for glaciers.
- [Retracing the Silk Road and Persian Roots in Uzbekistan](https://continental-divine.com/retracing-the-silk-road-and-persian-roots-in-uzbekistan/) - As a major producer of silk since the 4th century, Uzbekistan was an integral part of the Silk Route, the ancient trade route linking China to the west. Bukhara and Samarkand were on this route and have UNESCO-recognized historic centers that are 1,500 to 2,500 years old. Shakhrisyabz is even older and also on UNESCO's list. All three cities have stunning examples of Persian architecture.
- [Collision Course of Putin in Former Soviet Republics](https://continental-divine.com/collision-course-of-putin-in-former-soviet-republics/) - The USSR was a communist state and federal union of 15 national republics spanning Eurasia from 1922 to 1991. These republics included Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Estonia, Georgia, Latvia, Lithuania, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan. All formed independent states by the dissolution of the USSR in 1991.
- [Coming up Roses, Mountains, Churches and Folklore in Bulgaria](https://continental-divine.com/coming-up-roses-mountains-churches-and-folklore-in-bulgaria/) - Bulgaria in the Balkan Peninsula is one of the last members of the European Union (2007), a big geopolitical change for this former socialist republic. Traveling there is a step back in time with folklore, ancient sites and older architecture eclipsing modernity. You can also step in time in traditional group dances and smell the roses that abundantly grow in this southeastern European country.
- [Unsuspecting Visitors in the South African Bush](https://continental-divine.com/uninvited-visitors-in-the-south-african-bush/) - Think of South Africa and your mind may first go to wine. But it also is amazing country for safaris and the wine comes in handy for them as the wildlife can get up close and personal ... sometimes, too close.
- [Rescue of Antarctic Ship ‘Periled at Sea’](https://continental-divine.com/rescue-of-antarctic-ship-periled-at-sea/) - "We’re going to have to rescue another ship," said our expedition leader in the midst of the Antarctic Sea. This was far more adventure than we expected and thankfully, we lived to tell about it.
- [Beaten, Shaken and Stirred in a Turkish Bath](https://continental-divine.com/beaten-shaken-and-stirred-in-a-turkish-bath/) - Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, physically located on the European continent but dominated culturally by the Middle East. These worlds collide in amusing ways in Turkish baths known as hammams.
- [Poisonous 'Snike' on the Loose in Australian Winery](https://continental-divine.com/poisonous-snake-on-the-loose-in-australian-winery/) - “A red-bellied black snake is on the loose!” cried the owner of a famous Australian winery while running with a shovel through the tasting room where we were sipping Shiraz. This was not at all who we were expecting to meet on our beautiful excursion to Hunter Valley.
- [For Better or for Worse at a Wedding in Italy](https://continental-divine.com/for-better-or-for-worse-at-wedding-in-fiesole-italy/) - Everyone’s heard of a groom with cold feet … but a priest? When my sister decided to get married in Italy, we knew there would be some challenges but not a forced exodus of the entire congregation.
- [One for the Roses in Mexico City](https://continental-divine.com/one-for-the-roses-in-mexico-city/) - Four dozen dozen roses and a serenade create a lasting impression ... or not? Apparently in Mexico City, such actions are a dime a dozen.
- [Fact Greater Than Fiction in Manu National Park](https://continental-divine.com/fact-greater-than-fiction-in-perus-manu-national-park/) - Peru is a magical, amazing country with many hidden gems outside of Macchu Picchu. In fact, the Peruvian Amazon is arguably more fascinating ... it's home to 25,000 rare and endemic species, several of which we saw for ourselves.
- [Matters of the Heart in Madagascar](https://continental-divine.com/matters-of-the-heart-in-madagascar/) - The island country of Madagascar off the east coast of Africa is wild and teeming with wildlife. While I survived being jumped on by lemurs, I didn't think I would make it out of the jungle alive.
- [Carpe(t) Diem in Turkmenistan](https://continental-divine.com/seizing-the-day-and-carpets-in-turkmenistan/) - Turkmenistan is Central Asia’s most elusive country with few tourists, making it also the most fascinating. That's especially true for a journalist as Turkmenistan has no freedom of the press. But it is well worth visiting ... seize the day, just not carpets.
- [Exploring Ancient Greece with the God of Wine](https://continental-divine.com/exploring-ancient-greece-with-the-god-of-wine/) - In August 2020, a friend and I braved traveling during COVID-19 to escape the red zone of Brussels in Greece for 10 days. Our private tour of the Saronic Islands and Peloponnese (southern peninsula) began with a guide named Dionysis. With the Greek god of wine, how could we go wrong?
- [The Fat Duck: Levitating to Childhood Dreams](https://continental-divine.com/the-fat-duck-levitating-to-childhood-dreams/) - Once upon a time, there was an old English pub gone three-star Michelin restaurant in a quaint village outside of London. Famed chef Heston Blumenthal fed us stories from his childhood memories and dreams that constituted the best meal of my life.
- [Lucky Break During Ramadan in Tunisia](https://continental-divine.com/lucky-break-during-ramadan-in-tunisia/) - Years ago, when I was studying abroad in Paris for a semester, my New Zealand housemate and I decided to go to Tunisia in northeast Africa for “spring break.” We went to the southeastern island of Djerba and Sahara Desert, baffling locals with our countries of origin.
- [A Love Letter to Brussels: Quirky, Cultured City Be Mine](https://continental-divine.com/a-love-letter-to-brussels-quirky-cultured-city-be-mine/) - You had me at “bonjour, enchanté” when we first met years ago. I fell for your charming personality, international flair and striking appearance. Often overshadowed by your bigger siblings Paris and London, you have so much to offer yet remain an underexplored gem. That’s because you’re modest and understated, only capturing the hearts of those who take the time to know you.
- [Bridge Over Troubled Water in Sydney](https://continental-divine.com/bridge-over-troubled-water-in-sydney/) - I’ve done a lot of crazy stuff in my life but walking up Sydney Harbour Bridge took me by surprise. Poisonous snakes, scorpions, sharks and box jellyfish have nothing on it and might make it easier to conquer fear.
- [Jail Bail in the Windy City of Chicago](https://continental-divine.com/jail-bail-in-the-windy-city-of-chicago/) - One time in Chicago, Illinois, a longtime friend put me in jail. That's so she wouldn't have to do time there herself. It was female bonding in the Windy City to say the least.
- ['Kodak Moment' in a 'Village' Near Mumbai](https://continental-divine.com/kodak-moment-in-a-village-near-mumbai/) - Remember when film was used in cameras and « Kodak moments » were advertised on television? The moments it celebrated will always exist. One for me involved a digital camera in India. It was amazing how such a small instrument could spread big love.
- [Walking in the Footsteps of Athenian Democracy](https://continental-divine.com/walking-in-the-footsteps-of-athenian-democracy/) - Following on the heels of the U.S. presidential election, ironically, I was in the birthplace of democracy: Athens, Greece. As I stared as the magnificent Acropolis while ballots were being counted in America, I prayed that Athenian democracy would prevail there. As it turns out, a modern Pericles “trumped” Julius Caesar.
- [A Tale of Two Sisters in Norway](https://continental-divine.com/a-tale-of-two-sisters-in-norway/) - When my typically non-outdoorsy sister asked me to go to Norway, I thought “You’re asking me to go to hiking, biking and kayaking in Norway? No way!” And of course, I immediately said yes ... It was “A Tale of Two Sisters” (as opposed to cities) in the “the season of light” as Charles Dickens would say.
- [Alive with the Sound of Music in Yosemite](https://continental-divine.com/alive-with-the-sound-of-music-in-yosemite/) - About 20 years ago, my sister and I took a summer girls’ trip to California to enjoy swanky San Francisco, Napa Valley wineries, Universal Studios Hollywood and the great outdoors. The latter included mountain climbing in Yosemite National Park in the awesome Sierra Nevada. But it's not made for hiking in the dark.
- [Giving Thanks in America's Heartland](https://continental-divine.com/giving-thanks-in-americas-heartland/) - The U.S. Midwest – including my home state of Michigan – is generally known for salt-of-the-earth, genuine, friendly people. Think apple-picking, football game-watching, pumpkin pie-baking, leaf-raking Americans that set the gold standard in English. Our north-central region is the nation’s heartland geographically and arguably, sentimentally.
- [Sleeping in Super Cool Ice Hotel in Arctic Sweden](https://continental-divine.com/sleeping-in-super-cool-ice-hotel-in-arctic-sweden/) - The Arctic encompasses the northern tips of several countries, including Sweden. Known as Lapland or Sámpi there, it is home to original Ice Hotel where ice sculptors compete annually to design the best room to sleep.
- [Christmas Markets of Yore in Ye Olde World](https://continental-divine.com/christmas-markets-of-yore-in-ye-olde-world/) - Imagine sipping Glühwein (hot mulled wine) under the stars, upstaged by millions of Christmas lights in every direction. There are also endless stalls in sight selling hot foods on a stick, twisted, spiced and/or roasted as well as holiday trinkets you don’t need but buy anyway ... Pop! Dream over. It’s 2020, the year without a Christmas market.
- [Unsilent Night for Christmas in Luxembourg](https://continental-divine.com/unsilent-night-for-christmas-in-luxembourg/) - When my sister moved to Luxembourg -- the smallest country in Europe after its six microstates -- it took my parents and me coming to visit her for Christmas to inspire her to turn on her oven. That was six months after she moved into her apartment. This simple joy turned into a narrowly averted disaster.
- [Grapes of Wrath in Barcelona for NYE](https://continental-divine.com/grapes-of-wrath-in-barcelona-for-nye/) - My parents, sister and I once went to Barcelona, Spain for New Year’s Eve. It was the first time all of us traveled in Europe together. And it threatened to be our last with an innocent blunder on my part.
- [Florida: Land of Idiosyncrasy and Inspiration](https://continental-divine.com/florida-land-of-idiosyncrasy-and-inspiration/) - The U.S. state of Florida is known for its idiosyncrasies and characters. But it's also kissed by the sun and blessed by nature, putting life into perspective.
- [‘Eat, Pray, Love’ and Gratitude in Thailand](https://continental-divine.com/eat-pray-love-and-gratitude-in-thailand/) - Thailand is known as a honeymooning paradise for good reason with its white sand beaches, stunning sunsets, bountiful flora and fauna, luxurious hotels, elegant dining, inexpensive massages and outstanding service. It's a land of hedonism for better or worse.
- [Inadvertent Culinary Tour in Tsakonian Villages of Greece](https://continental-divine.com/inadvertent-culinary-tour-in-tsakonian-villages-of-greece/) - When you think of Greek cuisine, surely tzatziki, moussaka, baklava and feta cheese made in 100 ways comes to mind. But what about candied eggplant, quince marmalade, kormos me biskota, koulourakia, sage tea, cream of chestnut, glyko karydaki, halite and petimezi? Welcome to the agricultural paradise of Greece’s southern Peloponnese peninsula.
- [Exploration of Extremes in Antarctica](https://continental-divine.com/exploration-of-extremes-in-antarctica/) - Our southernmost continent is aptly named for being opposite (“ant”) of the Arctic Circle. There you must take care as Antarctica leaves you high and dry, literally. It is the highest, driest, windiest, iciest and coldest continent on earth – a land of superlatives and extremes. This polar desert is also the least populated and most endangered continent.
- [Unshackled Footsteps of Shackleton in Antarctic Circle](https://continental-divine.com/unshackled-footsteps-of-shackleton-in-antarctica/) - The most famous explorer of all when it comes to Antarctica was Sir Ernest Shackleton. This Irish-Brit, who went on four Antarctic expeditions, was the first to go the furthest south and climb the active volcano Mount Erebus. His third voyage resulted in a shipwreck and a runaway boat that the crews largely and miraculously survived. This Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-17) is one of the greatest maritime survival stories in history and made Shackleton’s leadership legendary.
- ['Condominum' Continent is Model of International Diplomacy](https://continental-divine.com/condominum-continent-is-model-of-international-diplomacy/) - Imagine a place on earth where there has never been war; where countries around the globe cooperate and collaborate; where politics, rulers and militaries have no place; where nuclear activity and waste is prohibited; where nations are united by a common goal; where they have an open door policy without territorial claims, where peace and science reign … amazingly, it exists.
- [Emerald Isle of Ireland Shines in Torrential Rain](https://continental-divine.com/emerald-isle-of-ireland-shines-in-torrential-rain/) - For all of its rain, Ireland sure is sunny. It’s the friendliest country I’ve ever visited out of nearly 100 worldwide. If you think Americans are friendly, just wait until you meet the fun-loving, story-telling, joke-cracking, “craic”-making Irish. They will scoop you up in their beers, laughter and tales within minutes of meeting.
- [Belgium Brings out Paganism in Catholics During Carnival](https://continental-divine.com/belgium-brings-out-paganism-in-catholics-during-carnival/) - Carnival is the oldest, largest party in the world, celebrated in more than 50 countries. Ironically, this pagan tradition was preserved by the Roman Catholic church ... In Belgium, A + B = C as in Aalst plus Binche equals carnival.
- [Fueled with Wine Instead of Gas in Santiago](https://continental-divine.com/fueled-with-wine-instead-of-gas-in-santiago/) - Chile is arguably the most oddly shaped country in the world; it’s like a long stick. Even more odd is that this stick doesn’t need to beat back tourists (at least not yet) as each nodule on it represents a different climate and ecosystem. Included are outstanding agriculture and viticulture. Thank goodness for the latter when visiting a friend in Santiago.
- [Three Times a Mimmo and Charm in Italy](https://continental-divine.com/three-times-a-mimmo-and-charm-in-italy/) - Some of the best memories from my university semester in Paris were from Italy. Two 20-year-old Americans on the loose in Venice, Florence and Rome led to some tall tales ... literally. And Italian men lived up to their charming reputation.
- [Sacred Monolith and Endemic Life in Australia’s Outback](https://continental-divine.com/sacred-monolith-and-endemic-life-in-australias-outback/) - The outback of Australia accounts for 80 percent of this country-continent's land. No wonder there are twice as many kangaroos as people! But those who inhabit this rusty, dusty land make the best of it. And the wildlife will blow you away. (FYI, #koalas are not bears.)
- [Chica-Go Bragh and Troublin’ in Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day](https://continental-divine.com/chica-go-bragh-and-troublin-in-dublin-for-st-patricks-day/) - Chicago well celebrates its Irish immigrants every year on St. Patrick's Day but there is no place like Dublin for the occasion. Learn about Irish heritage and myths in a tale of two cities.
- [Spring Flower Power in the Netherlands](https://continental-divine.com/discovering-flower-power-in-the-netherlands/) - Holland in the Netherlands is synonymous with tulip. This iconic flower not only is displayed in the millions there and worth billions of euros, it is responsible for the world's first futures market.
- [Around the World in a Cup of Joe](https://continental-divine.com/around-the-world-in-a-cup-of-joe/) - Coffee is a hot commodity. It's the world's most traded foodstuff, worth more than $100 billion, and grown in 50+ countries in the Americas, Africa and Asia. Yet it's more widely consumed where it isn't grown and several countries have unique coffee preparation and drinking habits. My cup of Starbuck's java inspired a trip around the world ...
- [Little Known Special Territories of the European Union](https://continental-divine.com/little-known-special-territories-of-the-european-union/) - Did you know there are 32 special territories of the 27 EU member states? They are divided into three categories: nine outermost region territories like the Canary Islands that are part of the EU but have derogations from some EU laws with locations outside of mainland Europe; 10 special cases that are part of the EU with ad hoc provisions to EU law; and 13 other countries and territories (OCT) that are not part of the EU but cooperate with it. Except Greenlanders, OCT nationals are not EU citizens.
- [Destination Heligoland by Charter Expedition Yacht](https://continental-divine.com/destination-heligoland-by-charter-expedition-yacht/) - Discovery is a dream rooted in nature … who knew Heligoland archipelago north of Germany had such stunning cliffs and fluffy cows! This once Frisian then Danish hideaway was taken over by the British in 1814, which ceded it to Germany in 1890 in exchange for Zanzibar and other African territories. The Germans used Heligoland as a naval base during both World Wars and as a tourism spot in between. Today it a site for navigation, wind-energy production and scientific research, namely orinthology.
- [Easter Bunny Trail in Germany, America and Armenia](https://continental-divine.com/easter-bunny-trail-in-germany-america-and-armenia/) - While Easter has been a Christian celebration for centuries, it began as a non-religious spring festival. And the Easter bunny hopped to America from another country. Moreover, the first Christian state in the world was in West Asia. Discover a basket of "eggs-cellent" facts ...
- [Fire Land, Earth Wine, Sulfur Water and Godly Air in the Caucasus](https://continental-divine.com/fire-land-earth-wine-sulfur-water-and-godly-air-in-the-caucasus/) - Noah’s Ark purportedly landed in the Caucasus, a region between the Black and Caspian Seas where the Caucasus Mountains divide Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The latter in the South Caucasus includes Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia, where fire, earth, water and air are "biblical." No wonder the ark survived.
- [From Communism to Humanism in Moldova](https://continental-divine.com/from-communism-to-humanism-in-moldova/) - Moldova, a former USSR country between Romania and Ukraine, is caught between political idealism and economic reality. But in the middle are friendly, humble people.
- [Ancient Arabia Meets Modern Splendor in Marrakech](https://continental-divine.com/ancient-arabia-meets-modern-splendor-in-marrakech/) - The enchanting medina of Marrakech, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as the "red city" for its ancient clay buildings. But it is also full of other colors ... as well as colorful characters.
- [Lifestyles of the Rich and Religious in the UAE Part I](https://continental-divine.com/lifestyles-of-the-rich-and-religious-in-the-uae-part-i/) - Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is a luxurious, surreal city-state that's home to many of the world's largest infrastructures. It is literally rimmed in gold and just about any indulgence you can imagine. It also intersects vastly different Muslim and ex-pat cultures. But they are united in living large.
- [Lifestyles of the Rich and Religious in the UAE Part 2](https://continental-divine.com/lifestyles-of-the-rich-and-religious-in-the-uae-part-2/) - Lifestyles of the rich and religious abound in the United Arab Emirates, particularly in the wealthiest of them all: Abu Dhabi. It is dripping in oil with richesse second to few. Home to the UAE's largest mosque and the world's first governmental artificial intelligence department, Abu Dhabi invests in both religion and science. In the nearby desert lies gold in the form of fine sand, which hosts dune and camel cruising, Bedouin camps, whirling dervishes and belly dancers. All of it shakes up your mind in the land of sheikhs.
- [Viking Discoveries Down the “Blue” Danube](https://continental-divine.com/viking-discoveries-down-the-blue-danube/) - When Johann Strauss entitled his famous 1866 waltz “The Blue Danube,” he must have been wearing blue-tinted glasses or simply drunk. This river is no more blue than I can waltz. However, its banks are lined with magnificent buildings, charming villages and three European capitals. It also unites a formally divided continent.
- [‘Death in the Afternoon’ in Madrid and Sevilla](https://continental-divine.com/death-in-the-afternoon-in-madrid-and-sevilla/) - “Bullfighting is the only art in which the artist is in danger of death,” wrote Nobel Prize-winning novelist Ernest Hemingway. Observing this gory yet elegant cultural tradition in Spain, I better understood his lifelong obsession.
- [Tracing Korean History in Seoul by a Long Line and Words](https://continental-divine.com/tracing-korean-history-in-a-line-and-word-in-seoul/) - South Korea was formed with the creation of the 38th parallel in 1945 to separate the communist north from the democratic south. The Korean War that followed was a proxy for the Cold War between the USSR and United States. Seoul traces this history as well as deep Chinese influence in this long line and words, respectively.
- [Thirteen is a Lucky Number on July 4th in America](https://continental-divine.com/thirteen-is-a-lucky-number-on-july-4th-in-the-united-states/) - Why do Americans barbecue on the 4th of July? It's a centuries-old tradition evolving from Paul Revere to Weber grill. Traditionally, it included a livestock roast and 13 toasts to the first colonies. Today, barbecues are much smaller but fireworks remain. Almost missing them one U.S. Independence Day, I attest to their invocation of patriotism.
- [Ghost Chickens in the ‘Living Skies’ of Saskatchewan](https://continental-divine.com/ghost-chickens-in-the-living-skies-of-saskatchewan/) - Saskatchewan, a western Canadian province known as the “land of living skies,” has been in my vocabulary for decades. First it was due to the uniqueness of the name. This childhood obsession morphed into my foodie profession. Saskatoon is "boomtown" of culinary delights.
- [Adventures in and on Water in ‘Blue-Green’ Switzerland](https://continental-divine.com/adventures-in-and-on-water-in-blue-green-switzerland/) - Aside from being politically neutral, staying out of the EU and being one of the world’s most expensive countries, Switzerland is perhaps best known for its quality of life and natural beauty. Much of this revolves around water as I discovered during several trips as a “Swiss miss.”
- [Party Like an Environmentalist, Foodie and Artist in Ibiza](https://continental-divine.com/party-like-an-environmentalist-foodie-and-artist-in-ibiza/) - Ibiza in Spain's Balearic Islands is the European party place with world-class DJs but it is also an UNESCO World Heritage Site as a hub of biodiversity, history and culture. This natural reserve, archeological site and pioneer in art and gastronomy will be music to your ears. Rock on!
- [Blown Away by/on Fuerteventura in Spain’s Canary Islands](https://continental-divine.com/blown-away-by-in-fuerteventura-of-spains-canary-islands/) - Contrary to popular belief, Spain's Canary Islands west of Western Sahara do not take their name from birds, rather dogs. While the songbirds were named after the Canary Islands, the latter was derived the Latin term Insula Canaria, meaning “Island of the Dogs.” Ironically, these windswept islands, notably the kitesurfing hub Fuerteventura, will transport you away from the “dog eat dog” world and make you sing like canaries.
- [‘Thelma and Louise’ on Volcanic Moonscape of Lanzarote](https://continental-divine.com/thelma-and-louise-on-volcanic-moonscape-of-lanzarote/) - Lanzarote, the most volcanic island in Spain’s Canary archipelago, is comprised entirely of volcanoes ranging from 15 million to 300 years old. The newer landscape was largely created by a volcanic eruption in the 1730s that covered it with lava and ash, expanding it several square kilometers and destroying villages. Today, this eruption is frozen in time, giving life to a black “moonscape” of craters and bizarre shapes with streaks of red, orange and yellow. Driving across this island brought "Thelma and Louise" back to life as well.
- [Colors of Culture Around Taroudant, Morocco](https://continental-divine.com/colors-of-culture-in-and-around-taroudant-morocco/) - Morocco is a colorful country as represented by souks, covered markets that are full of life, grit and magic. It's also culturally vibrant with Berber and Arab influences, plus membership in both the African Union and Arab League. On a recent trip to Taroudant, a walled city east of Agadir, I was reminded of the country's colors of culture and Berber past.
- [Beach, Wind & Fire on Canary Islands of Spain](https://continental-divine.com/beach-wind-fire-on-canary-islands-of-spain/) - Beach, wind and fire sum up the Canary Islands of Spain from La Palma to Fuerteventura. Made from fire, these islands all have a fiery temperament. Mother Nature creates and destroys parts of them like a symphony. Stunning beaches and wind for sports are her gifts in between movements.
- [Playing by the Rules of Life in Japan](https://continental-divine.com/playing-by-the-rules-of-life-in-japan/) - Japan has one of the most unique cultures in the world with elaborate social etiquette and extremes from ttea ceremonies to hostess clubs. This small country, comprised of five main islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku and Okinawa), has also been an economic tiger in Asia for more than a century. While "tossed out of the #sumo ring" a few times in recent decades in terms of GDP, it has always been a cultural force.
- [Lucky Duck with Canucks in Eastern China](https://continental-divine.com/lucky-duck-with-canucks-in-eastern-china/) - With more than 4,000 years of recorded history, China was a pioneer of human civilization yet had many social and political setbacks over time. Culturally, it has always been a destination of fascination, particularly because it developed with relatively little outside influence (except Buddhism came from India) in spite of bordering 14 countries. But this quasi-isolation left China ill-prepared to cope with technologically superior countries from the mid-1800s to the mid-1900s. This sparked an internal revolution in the early 1900s against the old regime, culminating in a dominant communist government in 1949. Today, it is making a comeback as one of the world’s superpowers.
- [Nautical Knots and Locks of Love in Hamburg, Germany](https://continental-divine.com/nautical-knots-and-locks-of-love-in-hamburg-germany/) - Hamburg is Germany’s northerly darling that’s a gateway to the world as a major international port. It accesses the North Sea via the Elbe River and rivals Venice with its web of canals and waterways. More than 15,000 ships from over 100 countries pass through Hamburg each year. The city-state also has a lake (Alster, divided into inner and outer parts), massive shipping and ship building industries, and maritime culture from water “buses” to a weekly fish market. This explains why Hamburg is Germany’s second most populated city after Berlin and has more consulates than almost any city in the world.
- [Light, Smoke, Baguettes and Berets in Paris](https://continental-divine.com/light-smoke-baguettes-and-berets-in-paris/) - Paris, the City of Light, has been a light in my life for decades. Its romantic reputation upholds as the capital of France, which exemplifies “joie de vivre,” and as the world’s epicenter of art, architecture, fashion and gastronomy. My love affair with Paris began many years ago and continues to this day.
- [Clubs, Churches, Coffeehouses and Christmas in Kyiv, Ukraine](https://continental-divine.com/clubs-churches-coffeehouses-and-christmas-in-kyiv-ukraine/) - Kyiv, Ukraine was a golden child of the Golden Age then was destroyed twice, most recently, during World War II. But it rose like a phoenix, becoming an important city of the USSR then the capital of independent Ukraine. Today it's a hub for glorious churches, coffeehouses and clubs, turning its ashes into golden dust.
- [Falling Bodies and Flying Beings in Costa Rica](https://continental-divine.com/falling-bodies-and-flying-beings-in-costa-rica/) - Although Costa Rica only accounts for 0.03 percent of the planet’s surface, it has 5 percent of the world’s biodiversity. A quarter of the country is protected territory, including 29 national parks, 19 wildlife refuges and eight biological reserves, and all of it is a playground for the adventurous. It's where I bungee jumped dangerously, slept overnight on a beach, hitchhiked, stowed away and cruised down crocodile-infested canals.

## Pages

- [Home](https://continental-divine.com/) - Travel to all seven continents with me in this blog as I visit 100+ countries from North and South America to Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and Antarctica.
- [Meet Me](https://continental-divine.com/meet-me/) - Meet Me It was wanderlust at first sight: My first trip abroad to Paris during high school made me fall in love with international travel. I always studied maps as a kid but pinning them to note destinations visited* became an obsession as an adult. Then I started documenting my adventures in words and photos.
- [South America](https://continental-divine.com/south-america/) - South America The southerly half of the new world has 13 countries, nine of which are united by the Spanish language. Outliers are Portuguese-speaking Brazil – accounting for the continent’s largest population and area – English-speaking Guyana, French-speaking French Guiana and Dutch-speaking Suriname. Because of Brazil’s size, half of all South Americans speak Portuguese. Minorities
- [North America](https://continental-divine.com/north-america/) - North America Dominated by the United States with 330 million people, this new world sharply contrasts to Europe with its modern buildings, fast pace of life and hard-driving business culture. (Ironically, European colonies morphed into an independent country in 1776, creating an Old World melting pot in the New World.) “USA, USA, USA” is one
- [Europe](https://continental-divine.com/europe/) - Europe Bonjour, hallo, ciao, hola … no matter the language, you get old world charm in Europe. Thanks to the Eurozone, the currency is also the same among 19 of 27 European Union (EU) member states. But cultures are distinctive, especially between northern, southern, western and eastern Europe. There are 50 countries in total but
- [Asia](https://continental-divine.com/asia/) - Asia Thinking of this continent, billions of people come to mind. In fact, Asia is the largest continent in the world by population as well as area. That’s because it includes 48 countries, two of which (China and India) each have over a billion people and consider a city of 1 million inhabitants a “village.”
- [Africa](https://continental-divine.com/africa/) - Africa The equator can be described as a “lion” running through the middle of Africa. This pun is no lie as the continent is teeming with wildlife. There is no better place on earth than Africa to go on safari and get close to animals in their natural environment. It’s also where you can feel
- [Etiquette Cheat Sheet](https://continental-divine.com/etiquette-cheat-sheet/) - Etiquette Cheat Sheet Continent Here Region Here Social Etiquette A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah. Business Etiquette A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah.
- [Tourism Tips](https://continental-divine.com/tourism-tips/) - Tourism Tips Continent Here Region Here Sleep A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah. See A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah. Walk A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah. Do A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah. Shop A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah. Eat A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah. Drink A bullet pointed list.Another bullet point.Yeah.
- [Terms of Use](https://continental-divine.com/terms-of-use/) - Terms of Use PrivacyThe only personal information obtained from visitors to this website is what they provide when subscribing to Continental Divine blog or filling out the contact form. This information is kept confidential and will not be sold, rented or otherwise circulated.No Pay for PlayContinental-Divine.com does not sell or endorse any advertiser or branded
- [Thank You](https://continental-divine.com/thank-you/) - Thank you! Thank you for subscribing to Continental Divine blog! Now you have no Fear of Missing Out: You will automatically receive a new story each week about the wonders of wanderlust. Happy virtual traveling … Cheers, Angela Back to home
- [Travel the 7 Cs](https://continental-divine.com/travel-the-7-cs/) - Travel the 7 Cs All Africa Antarctica Asia Australia/Oceania Europe North America South America Unsuspecting Visitors in the South African Bush Rescue of Antarctic Ship ‘Periled at Sea’ Beaten, Shaken and Stirred in a Turkish Bath Poisonous ‘Snike’ on the Loose in Australian Winery For Better or for Worse at a Wedding in Italy One
- [Travel Trivia](https://continental-divine.com/travel-trivia/) - Travel Trivia To which continent does New Zealand belong? No, not Australia. New Zealand sits on its own land mass called Zealandia just 25 kilometers east of Australia, which is mostly submerged. The case for Zealandia as a continent is still up in the air, but data so far shows that it does not meet
- [More Travel Trivia](https://continental-divine.com/more-trivia/) - More Trivia What is the name of the capitol of Liechtenstein? Vaduz is the capitol of this European microstate. Which country is bordered by the most countries? China and Russia have the most neighboring countries with 14 neighbors each. What is the smallest, sovereign microstate in the world? Holy See, which includes the Vatican. Which
- [Continents](https://continental-divine.com/continents/) - Click on your continent of interest below. [drawattention]
- [Australia](https://continental-divine.com/australia/) - Australia This dry and dusty country-continent has more kangaroos and non-indigenous camels than people. It’s also home to six of the most poisonous snakes in the world, scorpions, coastal sharks, miniscule poisonous jellyfish and of course, the adorable, eucalyptus-smelling koala. No wonder this continent is where Britain once exiled prisoners (1788-1868). Today it’s a playground
- [Antarctica](https://continental-divine.com/antarctica/) - Antarctica Antarctica is the coldest, iciest, snowiest, highest and driest continent on earth – a land of superlatives and extremes. It’s full of topographical secrets, including hidden lakes, red water, volcanos and one of the longest mountain ranges on earth. The continent’s ice-capped land and snowy mountains, not to mention 12 million penguins, make an
- [Belgium](https://continental-divine.com/europe/belgium/) - Belgium Description of country goes here… Major Cities Brussels Antwerp Ghent

## Categories

- [Africa](https://continental-divine.com/category/africa/)
- [Antarctica](https://continental-divine.com/category/antarctica/)
- [Asia](https://continental-divine.com/category/asia/)
- [Central Asia](https://continental-divine.com/category/asia/central-asia/)
- [East Asia](https://continental-divine.com/category/asia/east-asia/)
- [Southeast Asia](https://continental-divine.com/category/asia/southeast-asia/)
- [South Asia](https://continental-divine.com/category/asia/south-asia/)
- [Western Asia](https://continental-divine.com/category/asia/western-asia/)
- [Australia/Oceania](https://continental-divine.com/category/australia-oceania/)
- [Europe](https://continental-divine.com/category/europe/)
- [Eastern Europe](https://continental-divine.com/category/europe/eastern-europe/)
- [Western Europe](https://continental-divine.com/category/europe/western-europe/)
- [North America](https://continental-divine.com/category/north-america/)
- [Caribbean](https://continental-divine.com/category/north-america/caribbean/)
- [Central America](https://continental-divine.com/category/north-america/central-america/)
- [South America](https://continental-divine.com/category/south-america/)
- [Featured](https://continental-divine.com/category/featured/)

## Tags

- [Asia](https://continental-divine.com/tag/asia/)
- [Africa](https://continental-divine.com/tag/africa/)
- [Australia/Oceania](https://continental-divine.com/tag/australia-oceania/)
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- [Antarctica](https://continental-divine.com/tag/antarctica/)
- [North America](https://continental-divine.com/tag/north-america/)
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