Singing styles certainly make unique distinctions within a community’s heritage and culture. Varying from country to country, music changes and morphs as people incorporate their own techniques, rhythms, and styles. The following are a few examples of singing found throughout our diverse planet:
Cantu a tenore (Italy)
Cantu a tenore singing is a style of folk music that originates in Sardinia. Its traditional oral techniques can be traced back over 5,000 years. Each singer performs one of four parts: boke, bassu, cantra, or mea’oke; all of which resonate into a polyphonic culmination. The different elements in each tone are supposed to imitate the sound of the wind, the bleat of sheep, and the lowing of cows.
Throat Singing (Mongolia)
The origins of throat singing descend from traditions in western Mongolia. Today, the manner of song has evolved into many different styles and genres. By pushing air from the lungs through the pharynx, the singer can create a tone that resonates in the mouth cavity; there, it can then be amplified and molded selectively to create more than one pitch while still operating in a single frequency.
Collegiate-A cappella (US)
Collegiate-A cappella singing is a style of song that is most popular among college students in the United States though its popularity is increasing in other parts of the world. With no physical instruments, the singing groups are student-directed and run. Famously, the Dartmouth Aires (seen above) were finalist on the television series “The Sing-Off,” and have caused a surge in the popularity of Collegiate-A cappella all over the world.
Yodeling (Central Alps)
Switching from their lower “chest voice” to their higher falsetto, Yodelers rapidly belt tones in a high-low-high-low fashion in rapid succession. Characterized by its signature oh-di-lay-ee-ay sound, it was originally used as a form of communication between Alpine villages, slowly integrating into local folk music customs over the years. Today, the singing style is still very much popular both in Europe and the United States. Head to the high Alpine in your car rental in Zurich and participate in one of the frequent folk music festivals that show-off yodeling at its best.
In 1912, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, known as the “Father of Black History,” became the second black man to graduate from Harvard University with a Ph.D. During his time at the institution he learned a lot about North American history, but noticed there was a clear omission of black contributions. Since slavery had been common place prior to the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 (UK) and Emancipation Proclamation 1863 (US) , black people were continually deprived of social status. Moreover, black families lost most, if not all of their heritage and family history as relatives were sold separately into the slave market.
Dr. Woodson was so compelled by the lack of black history throughout North America; he founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and the Journal of Negro History both which remain active to this day under the name the Association for the Study of African American Life. In 1926, Dr. Woodson declared the first annual Negro History Week during the second week of February to correspond with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. African-Canadians, mostly those who worked on the railroad in Toronto, began to celebrate the occasion in the 1950′s. The evolution that transpired from Dr. Woodson’s efforts came to a head in the 60’s during the Civil Rights Movement.
Champions of the revolution such as Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. lead national grassroots organizations that demanded change. They rebuked the status quo at the time which dictated that blacks and whites were “separate, but equal.” On August 28, 1969 around 250,000 people converged on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. (the largest in history) to stand up for equality and demand equal rights for everyone.
Government and law enforcement officials inferred that the protest (known as the March on Washington) was going to turn violent; much to their surprise, it did not. The assemblage of people not only remained peaceful, but chanted as they thrust signs in the air, showing their solidarity. Marching from Washington Monument, the group gathered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to hear speeches. The last person to address the crowd was Rev. Dr. King who abandoned his prepared text and went on to make what is known today as the “I Have a Dream” speech (a portion of which can be seen in the video below).
African-Candians and African-Americans continued to embrace their history into 1976, when the entire month of February was designated Black History Month; this was twenty-six years after Dr. Carter Woodson’s death. Today, Black History Month is a time to remember and commemorate the struggles and triumphs of black people. It’s a history that not only affects black people in Canada and the United State, but the world as a whole. Come to Washington, D.C. in your car rental to see the newly revealed Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial and learn more about how Black History affects everyone, aye.
Natural phenomena, as the name implies, are not caused or created by humans. They are occurrences in nature that are rare and significant, usually with little scientific explanation. The following are a three of the world’s strangest phenomena:
Raining Fish
Just a few days ago, residents of Loreto, Philippines were stunned when they saw fish falling from the sky during a torrential downpour. The fish, thought to be mudfish fingerlings, were strewn all over the town. Some people even thought that it was an omen from God. Government officials in the Philippines have yet to make a statement, though NASA officials spoke on the issue, stating that it was ‘natural occurrence.’
A natural occurrence, you ask? Yes, there have been multiple occasions when fish have rained down onto community. So is true with frogs, toads, jelly fish, worms, and salamanders. There are a number of theories as to how these animals fell from the sky. One hypothesis suggests that a waterspout, swirling over open water, sucked the creatures up and carried them over dry land.
Fish have also been known to be frozen upon inspection, something that could imply they were in a storm cloud. Nevertheless, if such a theory was true, how come only one species of animal is found during each occurrence? This is a question scientist have yet to answer, proving that there is no concrete explanation.
The Northern Lights a.k.a. Aurora Borealis
Usually seen in the polar regions of the world, the Northern Lights have been capturing the attention of humans for thousands of years. The first record of the Northern Lights dates back around 30,000 years, when one of our Cro-Magnon ancestors painted images on the walls of a cave in what is now Southern France.
Throughout history, the lights have been subject to Inuit, Eskimo, and even Viking folklore. Some Eskimo tribes believe that the flashing colours come from torches held by victims of violent death, illuminating the path for newcomers into the afterlife. Some people believe that by whistling you can bring the lights closer, allowing you to whisper messages to the dead. There was even one man who thought that the green and blue lights were cast from a distant unfrozen sea. He subsequently spent his life looking for such a body of water, to no avail.
It wasn’t until 1490 when the Northern Lights were first referred to in print. In the following centuries, there was no mention or record of the phenomenon. Coincidentally, during that same period no sunspots (a magnetic disruption on the surface of the sun) were seen either. In the 1700s, sightings started to be reported again and scientists scrambled for an explanation. Our modern understanding came to be, as scientist started to use the name Aurora Borealis.
They theorized that the lights seen in the sky were magnetically charged particles thrown by solar wind, hitting the earth’s magnetic field and thus, flaring in a colourful display. To this day, experts hold true to this belief and have actually found evidence to back it up. Though this theory has substantial scientific corroboration, many people around the world still employ ancient folklore and spirituality to determine what they see in the sky. Book a car rental in Norway and ask a local what he or she thinks causes the dancing green flares in the sky.
Red Rains in Kerala
In July 2001, the residents of Kerala, India were shocked when red rain fell from the sky. The downpours continued for 2 months, leaving some locals frightened for what it could mean. Fearing for the coming of Kali Yuga (a sort of “Hindu Dark Ages”), villagers questioned whether it was a warning from God. In many places, the red colour of the rain was extremely intense. “It was as red as blood,” some locals stated.
Government reports were issued claiming that the phenomenon was a direct result of red dust blowing over from Africa. Unaffected by the reports, Dr. Godfrey Lewis, a physicist wanted to investigate himself. Upon analyzing multiple samples, he determined that the particles in the water were not dust, and that they where in fact cells. Such a finding would suggest that the particles came from something alive and if you ask Dr. Lewis, he’d tell you they were extraterrestrial.
His research continues to this day as experts from all over the world make their hypotheses. One researcher’s studies found that there were traces of DNA, though it was inconclusive. Others have suggested that the cells in the rain were a result of a meteor shower striking a flock of bats. Either way, none of the findings have been widely accepted as the red rains of Kerala continue to be a mystery.
When I go camping, my first goal is to be prepared for whatever nature might throw at me, and secondly, I try to travel light. These goals seem to be incompatible, but there are options to satisfy both. The following are a few essentials needed for packing a light load that suits your basic needs:
Shelter
Unless you know of a lean-to or cabin along the way, you’ll obviously need to bring a tent on your trip. Bring a tent appropriately suited to your needs. Ask yourself questions like: How many people are coming? (You can find tents for one person, or up to ten.) What time of year is it? (Depending on where you plan to hike, you may need a tent that allows more or less air in.)
I find the Fast Stash tent by MRS to be the most practical; it sleeps two comfortably and it can be adjusted to the weather. There is also an awning under which you will find enough room to cook in the unfortunate event of rain or snow. The tent is lightweight and you can also use your trekking poles as supports, cutting a little more weight off your back.
Water
Food and water are going to be among the heaviest items in your pack, but are both requirements for staying energized while hiking. If camping with other people, I suggest having each person carry what they will need. 2-4 quarts of water is the perfect amount initially, though if you’re going on a multi day trip, you’ll want to bring a water purifier or germicidal tablets. To carry water, I always use an over the shoulder canteen to keep my pack as light as possible. (Remember to try at all costs to find moving water as opposed to a stagnant pool… parasites will always louse-up a camping trip.)
Food
Though granola and dried fruit are delicious while on the trail, they are not exactly what you would call a hardy meal (something I need after exploring the great unknown.) Depending on how long your camping trip is, taking frozen meat is always an option, at least for the first day. It stays frozen for a while if it’s well-insulated and satisfies the hunger of a tired hiker. I also suggest taking an egg carrier. With this device you can carry eggs without the risk of breaking them; either cook them hard boiled or keep them raw. Eggs can stay unrefrigerated for a while, and if you question their freshness you can always try to float them in water. If they float throw them out, if they sink, they’re good to go.
Tools
Everyone has heard the old adage “use the right tool for the job” and while camping, the phrase couldn’t be truer. Improvised tools worked great for our Paleolithic ancestors; but when I try to hone a piece of rock to use as a cutting device, I end up bruised and/or bleeding (this is why you should always bring a First Aid Kit). I always carry a multi-tool, some rope, extra tent stakes, a lighter and matches, as well as a compass and map, if available. These items are essential in the case of an emergency.
Hiking Boots
Your entire hike can be ruined if you hit the trails in ill-fitting or low quality footwear (believe me, I’ve done it!) You need a boot that will keep you dry, provide you with adequate support, and not weigh you down. You will also need extra socks! There are plenty of options out there depending on your budget. As a Mainer, I prefer LL Bean’s Waterproof Trail Model Hikers; the high-top design provides protection from ankle rolls and the middle-of-the-road price is always appreciated. They are especially light-weight to “boot.”
Cooking System
With a Jetboil Premium Cooking System you don’t have carry a cumbersome stove with a heavy fuel tank or trudge around looking for dry wood and kindling; neither do you have to wield a heavy hatchet. Amazingly, the higher-end versions of this revolutionary product can weigh less than .25 kg, much to the relief of your back and knees. All things considered, my favorite part is that you can leave nature the way you found it. Prices on their website range from $69.95 to $199.99 USD.
Sleeping Bag
Traditional sleeping bags can weight up to 5 pounds. They also tend to be big and bulky, something that makes the task packing much more difficult. An ultra-light sleeping bag can be rolled up to reach dimensions of 6” x 12” and they often weigh between .6 and 1.0 kg. Prices can vary drastically depending on your preferences and temperature requirements. More affordable bags can begin at $40 and others can reach $350 USD. As far as a sleeping pad, it’s up to you; I just fluff-up the leaves under the tent.
Hiking and camping can be unpredictable, so make sure you stay safe and prepared. Taking a car rental with you will allow for a quick getaway, if needed. Never take to the woods without telling someone where you are going, and always stay on the trail. Be responsible and don’t leave anything behind; “leave nature the way you found it” is my motto. Remember, aside from all the boring safety tips, having fun is of the utmost importance!
“I am quite the vision, my lithe ginger form sparkling in the sun as I brave certain death with panache and bravado.”
– Dave Zwickerhill
Here in New England we are blessed to have beautiful views of the Appalachian Mountains among scattered lakes, rivers, and ponds. These features can be attributed to giant prehistoric glaciers that scraped most of the land down to bedrock. There are numerous waterfalls and swimming holes, as well as abandoned quarries that await the extreme adventurer. Done usually in one’s youth, cliff jumping is a popular pastime here in the Northeast, despite the clear risk involved. In an effort to combat the winter blues, I thought it would be nice to have a glimpse into what summer looks like in New England. The following are a few of the most popular locations where people take these “leaps of faith.”
Fitzwilliam Quarries (New Hampshire)
Fitzwilliam Quarries is located in southern New Hampshire, near the Massachusetts border. It is the perfect place for people of all abilities to go cliff jumping due to its staircase like appearance with ledges ranging from 10 to 40 feet. The water below is spring fed which gives it a bluish hue, and there is no risk of hitting bottom as it is 40 feet deep.
Salmon Falls (Maine)
Salmon Falls is very popular swimming area in southern Maine, along the Saco River. On either side of the river, there are a number of ledges and rope swings off from which people jump during the summer months; people even leap from the bridge along Route 202 (not permitted by law). Although the water is deep enough, some rope swings and ledges are so high that a miscalculation would be dire.
Red Rock State Park (Vermont)
Located in Burlington, Vermont on the rocky shores of Lake Champlain, the Red Rock State Park attracts extreme cliff jumpers from all around. Some of these cliffs reach heights upward of 70 feet and will delight the avid thrill seeker. Unlike more beginner-friendly destinations, the only people you will see jumping from these cliffs are diehard adrenaline junkies.
Though it is a thrilling experience, jumping from cliffs is about as advisable as it sounds. There is a serious risk for injury, and in some cases death; it is done at one’s own risk and should not be entered into lightly, if at all. This blogs intention is to highlight cliff jumping, not endorse it. So next time you book a car rental in Boston, or a car rental in Burlington be sure to observe these high-flying New Englanders from a safe distance.
Since the beginning of the first millennium, Jemaa el Fnaa in Marrakech, Morocco has provided the community with food, entertainment, necessities and more. Today, it is renowned as one of the busiest and most colorful market places in the world. Everyday following the call to prayer, hundreds of merchants gather to peddle their wares. Visitors should be prepared for high-pressure sales tactics as the practice is one of the markets defining characteristics. You can find items ranging from kebabs, furniture, clothes, souvenir baubles, and much more. Throughout the day, Chleuh boys dance for the crowd in female attire; if girls were to dance it would be thought of as improper. Snake charmers wow onlookers as little children showcase their pet Barbary macaques, a native species of ape. From dusk until dawn this expansive market place bustles with the sounds of music heard amidst the solicitations of clever salesmen. In an effort to combat commercial and industrial exploitation, UNESCO enacted the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity project, a programme that protects the essence and charm of this important market.
Marche des Ferishes (Togo)
A trip to the Marche des Ferishes (or the Fetish Market) in Lome, Togo is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who visit. A somewhat disturbing sight to a Westerner, native people regard the market as no less than a local pharmacy. Selling the extremities, hides, bones, and teeth of multiple species of animal, it is the market’s purpose to provide ingredients for healing remedies and rituals. In this part of the world, Voodoo and Juju are often given the same merit as western medicine. In an interview with BBC News, a spiritual healer named Joseph said, “When someone has a serious sickness and the hospital cannot help, they come here to the fetish market.” He goes on to explain how he makes a specific healing treatment for those who are sick by grinding up animal heads with herbs. He then places the concoction over a fire and rubs the charred remains into three incisions which he would make on a patients back or chest. Though the items in the market may seem gruesome, the healers that use them seem to have pure intentions and wish only to serve their community.
Brimfield Antiques Show (USA)
In September of 1959, almost 70 antiques dealers gathered on a field in the small town of Brimfield, Massachusetts. Today, it’s known as the Brimfield Antiques Show and it has grown to over 5,000 exhibitionists. The show is spread out over 100 acres, attracting 1 million collectors from all corners of the globe. Each May, July, and September people converge on what is sometimes referred to as the “Antiques Capital of the World.” You can find anything from estate jewelry, rare furniture, glassware, and vintage appliances, as well as many other objects you didn’t know you needed. For first time visitors, the energy is almost palpable. The population of the Brimfield grows exponentially during the show and takes on a culture and ambiance of its own. As it takes place in rural Massachusetts, a car rental in Boston is the best way to get to the Brimfield Antiques Show and to explore historic New England. For bargain hunters and antique fanatics, this is a must-do!
As illustrated in the well-know poem “Twas the Night before Christmas,” the story of Santa Claus warms the hearts of children around the world – or so we thought. The story explained in the famous poem is actually one of many versions which seem to vary from country to country. The following are a few examples of different Santa-like entities, their helpers, as well as some of their counterparts:
Sinterklaas (Netherlands/Belgium): Sinterklaas may look like the North American Santa that we’ve all come to know and love – but he is not. Sinterklass is not from the North Pole and he does not preside over elves. It is from Spain where he sets off in a steamboat to Amsterdam. Guided by the careful navigation of his Zwate Piet (his “helpers,”) he set off from Spain and reaches the port of Amsterdam by the end of November. This is a nationally televised event, watched by people all over the country. He is a serious man with long white hair and beard who carries a golden staff and wears a red cape, ruby ring, as well as a red mitre (a hat generally associated with the pope). Upon his arrival, he docks his boat and hops on a white horse accompanied by two to five Zwate Piet. Their jobs vary from co-pilot to chimney climbers. He visits hospitals, schools, shopping centres and homes. The evening of his arrival, children leave there shoes near the fireplace filled with hay and carrots for Sinterklaas’ horse. Cookies and traditional almond pastries are left for Sinterklaas himself. In the morning, the good little boys and girls are bestowed with presents and candy, the bad children receive coal and the threat of being kidnapped back to Spain with Sinterklaas and his crew.
(images courtesy of dullhunk and hotfield)
Krampus(Austria/Slovenia/Italy): In the Alpine regions of Europe, Krampus acts as an anti-Santa of sorts. Generally, the creature is fur-laden from head to toe, bearing long horns atop a gruesome, sometime blood stained face. On December 5th of each year, young men dress up as Krampus and take to the streets, on the prowl for bad boys and girls. For those who are naughty during the year, they are beaten with long sticks; anyone in the street is fair game. In recent years, the practice has become controversial as the beatings are sometime considered brutal.
La Befana(Italy): On January 5th, the people of Italy celebrate Epiphany, a feast commemorating the revelation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God. As legend dictates, on the night before Jesus’ birth, La Befana gave the Magi (or the Three Wise Men) a place to stay and a hot meal as they continued their journey to see the baby Jesus. It is said that she was an exceptional hostess, always keeping her house spotless. The morning after, the Magi invited her to come see the Lord, but she declined as she had more housework to do. After they left, La Befana had a change of heart and set off in search of the infant. Unfortunately, she was unable to find Him or the Magi, and to this day she searches for the baby Jesus, leaving toys, candy and fruit for the good children along her path. Garlic and onions are left for those who were naughty during the year. Today, La Befana is a national icon. Take your car rental in Italy to the Epiphany celebrations where people dress up as her and entertain children by juggling and dancing in the streets. A story of a similar woman is told in Russia by the name of Babushka (or grandmother.)
Gryla (Iceland): The arrival of the giant, Gryla has been a time-honoured tradition in Iceland for hundreds of years. It is said that she descends from her mountain home during the Christmas season to seek out naughty children to put in her stew. She is always accompanied by her sons, referred to as the Yuletide Lads. The lads begin to show up on December 12th with the arrival of the first son, Stekkjarstaur, who steals milk from farmers’ sheep. On each day until the 24th, a new brother appears; some are known to peep through windows, others slam doors, steal food or toys. The story was not associated with Christmas until the 17th century, which subsequently had lead to an outright ban on using the story to scare children. Despite the ban, which has since been lifted, the people of Iceland keep the story alive by dressing up as Gryla and her children every year around Christmas.
Maine is located in the Northeast United States and makes up the northern part of New England. It borders the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Quebec and New Brunswick to the north-northwest and New Hampshire to the west; its the only state in the US that borders just one other state. People come from all over the world to experience the pristine terrain among the high peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, the dense forests of the interior and the jagged 3,500 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Maine – which also features 4,613 islands. 6,000 lakes and ponds dot the landscape, offering exponential locations to relax in the serine Maine wilderness. To put things in prospective, the total area of Maine is 33,215 square miles and 26,562 square miles are undeveloped.
Maine Culture
The people of Maine live a slow-paced New England lifestyle and have a strong sense of community. Most of them live in small fishing villages or quaint mountain towns, where you will find the essence of the people among the many farms and early colonial homes. Even Maine’s largest city, Portland, has a population of only 63,194 people and holds true to the traditions of a small town. It is common place for people to smile and wave as you pass by, whether it is on foot or in a car, casual conversations are had in line at the local grocer or variety store. Among Mainers, it is also generally understood that if someone needs help, you help them. Whether they be broken down on the side of the road or struggling with an armful of whatever, rules of common courtesy dictate that you should step in.
Maine Cuisine
Maine Lobster: For years, lobster has been harvested along the coast of Maine. Originally thought of as a disgusting bottom feeder, it was usually found on the tables of poor Maine families. In the early 1800’s, the crustacean began to grow in popularity and today, it has become world renowned and considered a delicacy. In the summertime, Mainers have feasts called lobster bakes which also include steamed clams, corn on the cob and Maine potatoes.
Maine Blueberries: Wild Maine Blueberries can be found almost anywhere in Maine. For years, Maine’s first inhabitants – the Maliseet, Passamaquoddy, Abenaki, and Penobscot Indians – have used the berries for their healing properties and rich nutrients. It wasn’t until the mid-1800’s that the berries were harvested on the commercial level. Best enjoyed during the summer months, wild Maine blueberries can also be frozen to be had year-round.
Historic People from Maine
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882): A world renowned poet and educator, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is well known for his poems “Paul Revere’s Ride” and “The Song of Hiawatha.” He attended and taught at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine and took professorships at Harvard College in Boston, Massachusetts, as well as at many colleges in Europe. His contributions to education and literature around the world were profound and live on to this day.
Hannibal Hamlin (1809-1891): Founder of the Grand Old Party (Republican Party,) Hannibal Hamlin served as US Senator from Maine three times, then preceded to sit as Governor of Maine for one term and finally served as the Vice President of the United States from 1861-1865 during the American Civil War under Abraham Lincoln. Hamlin also served as US Ambassador to Spain and held a number of other public offices both nationally and on the state level. This great diplomat played a key part in the history of the United States.
George J. Mitchell, Jr. (born 1933): Between 1989 and 1995, Senator Mitchell sat as US Senate Majority Leader until he was appointed as United States Special Envoy for Northern Ireland under President Bill Clinton. He chaired the peace negotiations that lead to the Belfast Peace Agreement; signed in 1998, it ended tensions between the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland which had lasted for decades. More recently the senator has been appointed as US Special Envoy for the Middle East under Barack Obama and has compiled reports on the Arab-Israeli conflict which have been pivotal in on-going peace negotiations. He is a true Mainer and to this day, he gives back to his home state in substantial ways.
Other Well-Known People from Maine
Stephen King, Milton Bradley, Patrick Dempsey, Edmund Muskie, Margaret Chase Smith, Nelson Rockefeller, Jud Nelson, EB White, LL Bean, Thomas Reed, James G. Blaine
Historic Places in Maine
Portland Head Light: Located in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, Portland Head Light was commissioned by George Washington in 1791, making it first lighthouse in the United States. The lighthouse continues to warn sailors as they navigate the rocky coast into Portland Harbor and is the most photographed lighthouse in the world.
Acadia National Park: The first national park on the eastern seaboard, Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island showcases the beauty of Maine’s rugged coast in close proximity to Cadillac Mountain, the largest on the Atlantic Coast. The park was donated by the Rockefellers in order to preserve such a magical place. Words do not suffice when attempting to describe the significance and fascination of these profoundly preserved seaside gem. Come see for yourself when you book your car rental in Portland, Maine.
For some people, parties include enjoying artichoke dip while wearing pressed linen slacks, and the possibility of engaging in some playful toe tapping is not too far off. For other people, a party includes body paint, dancing under the moon, and grooving to the world’s most renowned DJs. The Full Moon Party is for those who enjoy the latter. For some time now, (mostly British, mostly 20-somethings) tourists have visited the sandy beaches of Koh Phangan, a small island off the coast of Thailand, each month to let loose under the full moon.
Though the party may start at sunset, you may want to get your feet wet (both literally and figuratively) while socializing around one of the scattered tables along the shore earlier in the day. Crowds reaching 7,000 to 10,000 participants are regularly seen, but it is not impersonal; there is a good chance you will meet other party-goers with whom you start long lasting relationships. This is a great time to grab a “Yo-Yo Bucket,” at only 200THB ($9USD), it includes a pint of vodka and enough energy drinks to keep you going all night.
(photos courtesy of joestump and permanentlyscatterbrained)
Music blares and summons everyone towards the stage, and the mass of painted bodies meld into a sea of glow-sticks and lights. The soulful, rapid movements of Dubstep and Trance play loudly and jugglers and fire-eaters entertain the crowd with daring stunts, sometimes asking for audience participation. Leaping through fiery hoops and flaming jump rope are common spectacles at the Full Moon Party.
After awhile, the effects of dancing and leaping through hoops may leave you feeling a bit fatigued at which time a dip in the warm ocean waters may be in order. Many vendors and traders sit at the edge of the beach offering everything from liquor to food and souvenir bobbles, providing anything you may need. There are also designated areas, or “chill-out zones” that are guarded by security officers, providing a safe place to rest your head for a moment or the entire night. For a night at the Full Moon party, leave your car rental at the hotel and follow these party tips:
Take your passport copy, leave original at your hotel
Don’t bring anything of value
Take down your hotels details in case of an emergency
Throughout history people have been mummified for reasons both intentional and unintentional. To some, the sight of a withered corpse may be grotesque, but these remnants of former kings, victims, and scholars will continue to educate and bring insight into their lives and the times in which they lived for years to come. The following are 4 examples of mummies from all over the world that have been brought to us for very different reasons:
King Tutankhamen (ca. 1343 B.C.)
The tomb containing the most famous boy king of Egypt was discovered in the Valley of Kings in 1923. In 1343 B.C. King Tutankhamen was sent off into the afterlife with priceless treasures gilded in gold, which have been displayed in museums worldwide. For many years his mummified body had gone unseen – until now. The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, Texas, as well as the Pacific Science Centre in Settle, Washington are offering the rare opportunity to see his body, the sarcophagus in which it was held, and the priceless cache of treasures found in his tomb
Tullund Man (ca. 4 B.C.)
The Tullund Man was thought to be a murder victim upon his initial discovery by a group of hunters in 1950. Known as a bog body, the corpse had gone through a process similar to that of a pickle, where body fluids are replaced by acidic bog water, leaving the flesh inhospitable to bacteria, thus preventing decomposition. It is confirmed that he was hanged, most likely as a sacrifice, evidenced by rope fiber found in his neck. Come see the Tollund Man on display at his new home, the Silkeborg Museum, when you book your car rental in Denmark.
Jeremy Bentham (ca. 1832 A.D.)
(Courtesy of Matt From London)
Known for his philosophies of social reform, Jeremy Bentham’s final request (as written in his Will) was to be mummified and displayed at the University College London. Originally his body was kept by a friend until he died in the early-20th century. Now Mr. Bentham can be seen in a glass case within the corridors of UCL. A wax head was incorporated for aesthetic reasons; his real head is safely locked way in the university.
“Life Museum” (ca. 2000)
In Thailand, the “Life Museum” at Wat Phrabaht Nampu HIV/AIDS hospice takes an unconventional approach to heightening the reality and awareness of the HIV/AIDS virus. In their final days patients come to grips with the morality of life, so much so that some opt to be mummified and displayed in the museum; allowing them speak out beyond the grave about the dangers of HIV/AIDS for years to come. For some people this may be disturbing but the people at Wat Phrabaht Nampu have a more poetic understanding of the process, referring to death as a new beginning:
“The spirits of those who have died here teach us how to think…
We forget that we are connected to all of life.
Death is part of life and we forget to accept this truth:
to your needs. Ask yourself questions like: How many people are coming? (You can find tents for one person, or 
Everyone has heard the old adage “use the right tool for the job” and while camping, the phrase couldn’t be truer. Improvised tools worked great for our Paleolithic ancestors; but when I try to hone a piece of rock to use as a cutting device, I end up bruised and/or bleeding (this is why you should always bring a First Aid Kit). I always carry a 
Traditional sleeping bags can weight up to 5 pounds. They also tend to be big and bulky, something that makes the task packing much more difficult. An ultra-light sleeping bag can be rolled up to reach dimensions of 6” x 12” and they often weigh between .6 and 1.0 kg. Prices can vary drastically depending on your preferences and temperature requirements. More affordable bags can begin at $40 and others can reach $350 USD. As far as a sleeping pad, it’s up to you; I just fluff-up the leaves under the tent.
