Exploring the Spirit of Maine is a unique travel guide and reference book for those seeking either traditional or non-traditional options for spiritual and/or inner development. Author Karen Batignani reveals Maine's rich and varied religious history along with contemporary spiritual offerings: an ashram in Industry, a yoga retreat in Island Falls, Franciscan Friars in Kennebunk, two schools for shamanism and one that ordains high priestesses are just a few of the surprises Batignani found while mapping the spiritual landscape of Maine. In her travels, she discovered non-mainstream religions, Eastern traditions, spiritual communities, schools, retreats, and sacred architecture. The result is a selection of 45 interesting offerings that are covered in enough depth to satisfy the spiritually curious and enable those who are seeking spiritual community to fit right in. Batignani includes contact information for each entry, along with a summary list of recommended readings.

The three-thousand-year-old rock-cut temples at Abu Simbel and the story of their rescue from the rising waters of Lake Nasser in the 1960s are almost as familiar worldwide as the tale of the gold funerary mask and brief life of the boy king Tutankhamun. Yet although they are among the most celebrated, visited, and photographed archaeological sites in the world, the two temples are among the least understood by the visitor. In this lucidly written, beautifully illustrated guide, Nigel Fletcher-Jones explains the main features of both temples, discusses what they teach us about ancient Egypt during the reign of Rameses II (1265-1200 BC), and illustrates which gods and goddesses were worshipped here. With over 80 new photographs, drawings, and diagrams, and packed with fascinating insights, The Brief Guide to Abu Simbel is an indispensable companion and souvenir to one of the world's great archaeological sites.

Exploring Ireland is essential reading for anyone with an interest in the outdoors, from families looking for gentle Sunday strolls to experienced adventurers seeking out challenging hikes, paddles and cycles. This inspiring guidebook contains over 1700 things to do and places to see across the length and breadth of the island of Ireland. It's perfect for planning days out, weekends away and longer holidays. This book's 384 pages are packed with over 600 spectacular photos and detailed information on Ireland's beaches, signposted walks, mountain hikes, long-distance trails, blueways, greenways, cycle routes, forests, islands, rivers, lakes, heritage sites, parks and gardens, as well as a selection of interesting places to stay and eat.

In over 180 vivid color photos, this beautiful book provides a photographic exploration of the lifestyles and landscape of Long Island's famed East End. This collection, a work of art and a documentary, epitomizes the diversity and eclectic nature of this historic locale. The varied methods of capture - film or digital, time-lapse or infrared - produce imagery that evokes a sense of nostalgia and provides a greater understanding of the Hamptons as a whole. The hamlets and villages depicted include Amagansett, Bridgehampton, East Hampton, East Marion, Greenport, Montauk, Napeague, Noyack, The Quogues, Sag Harbor, Sagaponack, Shelter Island, Southampton, Springs, Water Mill, and Westhampton. The revered past and unique history of the Hamptons carries through to the present-day East End. Rich with art and culture, still picturesque and diverse, the Hamptons are ever changing and evolving. Looking ahead, this book will become a resource of historical record, as it chronicles the contemporary community in a beautiful and truthful way.

Worcester, Massachusetts, a birthplace of the American Revolution, is a city of many industrial firsts, including Eli Whitney's cotton gin, Elias Howe's sewing machine, Dr. Russell L. Hawes' machine for folding plain paper into envelopes, and Ester Howland's mass-produced Valentines. Other Worcester firsts include American postcards, new loom designs, the corset, the all-night-lunch, the first national convention advocating women's rights, the railroad passenger car, and a public city park.See 284 lively, color postcard views and modern photos that help tell Worcester's story, one of the oldest commercial success tales in the country. Learn how Worcester's beneficial location in the center of Massachusetts, with major highways and a rail system, helped it develop into a world-class city.

In this dazzling literary collection, writers explore and celebrate their lives with and love for birds-detailing experiences from Alaska to Bermuda, South Dakota to Panama. In When Birds Are Near, fresh new voices as well as seasoned authors offer tales of adventure, perseverance, and fun, whether taking us on a journey down Highway 1 to see a rare California Condor, fighting the destruction of our grasslands, or simply watching the feeder from a kitchen window. But these essays are more than just field notes. The authors reflect on love, loss, and family, engaging a broad array of emotions, from wonder to amusement. As Rob Nixon writes, "Sometimes the best bird experiences are defined less by a rare sighting than by a quality of presence, some sense of overall occasion that sets in motion memories of a particular landscape, a particular light, a particular choral effect, a particular hiking partner." Or, as the poet Elizabeth Bradfield remarks, "We resonate with certain animals, I believe, because they are a physical embodiment of an answer we are seeking. A sense of ourselves in the world that is nearly inexpressible." When Birds Are Near gives us the chance to walk alongside these avid appreciators of birds and reflect on our own interactions with our winged companions. Contributors: Christina Baal, Thomas Bancroft, K. Bannerman, R. A. Behrstock, Richard Bohannon, Elizabeth Bradfield, Christine Byl, Susan Cerulean, Sara Crosby, Jenn Dean, Rachel Dickinson, Katie Fallon, Jonathan Franzen, Andrew Furman, Tim Gallagher, David Gessner, Renata Golden, Ursula Murray Husted, Eli J. Knapp, Donald Kroodsma, J. Drew Lanham, John R. Nelson, Rob Nixon, Jonathan Rosen, Alison Townsend, Alison Vilag

In the mid-1800s, thousands of hardy pioneers braved the long and arduous journey across the Great Plains for a chance to build a new life in the West. These emigrants traveled more than 2,000 treacherous miles to the Pacific Ocean over the Oregon Trail in what became the largest mass migration in American history. Along the way they wrote letters and kept diaries, and some published memoirs of their trip years after their journey.
Oregon Trail Stories offers a selection of these intriguing narratives told in the pioneers' own words. From the diary of a member of the Donner Party to an excerpt from the memoirs of a girl orphaned as her family made their way West, these documents speak of the difficulties of facing an uncertain future and the hardships of the trail - including the very real threat of illness or death - and are an enduring reminder of our country's history.
Today almost all traces of the Oregon Trail have been obliterated by settlement, but these stories of courage, stamina, and adventure in the wide-open West survive, offering readers a fascinating first-hand account of life on the trail during America's long-gone frontier days.

With this informative guide, you can explore the mineral-rich state of New York, from the beaches to the mountains. It describes the states' best rockhounding sites and covers popular and commercial sites as well as numerous little-known areas. This handy guide also describes how to collect specimens, includes maps and directions to each site, and lists rockhound clubs in the state. "Rockhounding New York" offers a complete introduction to this many-faceted hobby and is an invaluable sourcebook.

Tugboats hold a fascination not only for anyone who has worked aboard a vessel or around a harbor but for many land-bound folks as well. There is something about their chunky, powerful build and their often risky but vital work that excites our interest and admiration. The captains and crews of the tugboats are justifiably proud of what they do, and they have some great stories to tell about the ships and barges they tow or push; the harbors, storms, tides, and dangerous passages they must negotiate; the unions; the pilots; the different designs and capabilties of their boats; and the way the boats and their livelihood are irrevocably changing.

The sights of Glacier National Park come alive through colorful images of the parks glorious lakes, wildlife, and rugged mountains. Postcards of yesteryear and contemporary photographs tell the rich history and enduring qualities of this "crown jewel" of the National Park system. Travel along Going-to-the-Sun Road, visit Many Glacier Hotel and other historic properties, and get swept away in the panoramic views. From the pioneering transportation advances of rails and roads, to the rustic lodges that continue to beckon new generations, and the unforgettable scenery, this book is a treasured keepsake for those who love parks and a great resource guide for history buffs.

Since the 1968 World Amateur Surfing Championships were held in Rincon, Puerto Rico has been on the international map of world-class surfing destinations. But it wasn't until photographer Steve Fitzpatrick relocated to San Juan in 1992 that the island's outstanding surf conditions and culture had a dedicated documentarian. Steve has spent the last two decades chasing nearly every swell with his camera, and has now distilled the absolute best images into this collection of more than 160 images. Pulled from an archive of more than 50,000 captures, this dramatic group of images presents the best surf Puerto Rico has to offer and the talented, athletic personalities that relentlessly harness its awesome power. Complete with images of the island's stunning natural beauty and a scientific analysis of Puerto Rico's well-endowed oceanographic situation, hardcore surfers and non-surfers alike will be impressed by this stunning work.

The island of Bali's sensational image was created by the tourists, artists, and scholars who visited the tiny nation between the two world wars. A Dutch colony from 1908, Bali was a source of revenue for the Dutch government, which began to develop its image as the ultimate vacation spot. The tourism industry spread the idea of Bali as a paradise in which noble, happy, spiritual Balinese--all prodigiously creative artists--lived in innocence. Sensual images of beautiful people on an enchanted isle unspoiled by modernity predominated. Bali also acquired a reputation as a homosexual paradise. A host of books and articles fed these images of Bali until it evolved into one of the most romantic stops on the tourist itinerary. The Balinese people, however, made little profit from the tourist traffic. This history of the development of tourism in Bali stretches from the Dutch occupation in 1906 to the Japanese occupation in 1942. After exhaustive research in published records and in unpublished letters, diaries, and oral histories left by many of the American and European visitors to the island as well as the Balinese residents, the author explores the reasons for Bali's popularity among Westerners and their effects on the native culture.

Up-to-date information on over 700 sites in 28 states dedicated to the American Revolution, including battlefields, memorial markers, statues, museums, cemeteries, other landmarks, and library collections. Arranged by state, each entry provides a descriptive profile, address and telephone number, admission fees (if any) and policies, hours open, and other pertinent information. For each state, there is a profile of its role and a timeline of events.

This book provides a thorough, area by area companion to the region's wealth of monuments, excavations and artefacts, from Paris and Boulogne-sur-Mer to Strasbourg and Lyon. Over ninety sites are treated in detail, including major attractions such as the parc archéologique in Lyon and the amphitheatre at Autun, numerous local museums and secluded rural excavations.
The guidebook combines a scholarly assessment of the area's Roman heritage, examining and interpreting the surviving remains, with practical visitor information such as directions to sites and opening hours. Comprehensively illustrated with photographs, maps and plans, it is a unique resource both for academic study and for visitors interested in the region's archaeological and historical background.

An intimate, unusual look at the Chesapeake Bay through beautiful images by renowned photographer, the late Marion Warren, and insightful poetry by award-winning author Mick Blackistone. Visit commercial watermen and farmers, catch and eat crabs and fish, walk deserted streets and homey lanes, and chat, build, and live with the people of the Chesapeake Bay region. Moments in time come alive in this book, revealing the warmth and spirit of living that is timeless in today's world. Capturing everyday thoughts and presenting hidden treasures located in changing communities, this trip through Maryland's best-kept secret creates images for readers regardless of where they live.

Every serious climber should experience Utah's Wasatch Range. Granite slabs, vertical finger cracks, overhanging off-widths, steep faces, and alpine adventures make it an unbeatable climbing destination. And the singular beauty of the Wasatch, with its deep canyons, remote alpine peaks, and miles of wilderness, attracts climbers of all creeds year after year, further cultivating the area's rich climbing history.
This edition, originally published as Rock Climbing Utah's Wasatch Range, is the only comprehensive guide to this climbing area. Every route is shown on a detailed topo, and each route description includes a difficulty rating, a quality rating, and first-ascent information. Stuart and Bret Ruckman's attention to detail, their historical accuracy, and their personal dedication to the Wasatch Range will help make your climbing experience a truly enjoyable adventure.

This beautiful book of art photography provides 145 never-before seen candid views of Amish life in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. See Amish families at work, play, and socializing in their society. The powerful photography speaks for itself and gives you a professional photographer's view of their compelling world. The Old Order Amish settled in Pennsylvania in 1737. For over 250 years they have thrived, doubling their population every 20 years. These Amish Christians worship in their homes every other Sunday. You could not ask for better neighbors. They are always ready and willing to help in times of need. Some Amish are volunteer firemen. As you will see in these pages, in this technology filled 21st century, the Amish remain steadfast to their traditions, driving horse drawn carriages, maintaining businesses, farms, and homes without electricity, and farming with mule and horse power. Enjoy this unusual look into the unique world of Amish life.

John Gibson offers a variety of routes for those wishing to appreciate the more rural side of Massachusetts. Routes vary in length. Some are circular, others point-to-point, but all seek out the less-traveled routes and steer explorers away from congestion and the worst examples of modern development. John's writing style is accessible, concise, informative, and infused with the author's appreciation for the true character of New England.

This new, fully updated fifth edition of Bradt's Oman offers all the information needed to plan a visit to this rapidly developing Arabian nation, written by experts Tony Walsh, a veteran of Oman's travel industry, and Diana Darke, who originally worked for the Omani government in 1980 and has remained acquainted with the country ever since. All parts of the country are covered, including areas not featured by other guides, and Arabic script for town names is detailed to aid on-the-ground navigation and exploration. New for this edition are coverage of the restored medieval walled town of Manah, with its labyrinth of passages and mud-brick houses, developments at the UNESCO site of Ubar at Ash Shisr, and in Muscat the fort at Mutrah, with its panoramic views over the Corniche. Also covered are the seasonal cloudforest in Dhofar in the south, the mountains of the north that leap from the plains to over 3,000 metres, the two major international airports in Muscat and Salalah, transport and road developments making access from Dubai quicker and improving the journey into the Wihibah Sands, and new hotels and restaurants, from luxury to simple. For outdoor enthusiasts, adventure tourism, extreme sports (including caving and the via ferrata climbing route) and catamaran sailing are all covered, as well as birdwatching. Whether trekking little used mountain paths or visiting small villages wrapped around date oases, browsing the local market or enjoying the weekend camel and horse races, Bradt's Oman is an indispensable companion. From the famed Rub Al Khali, the world's largest sand desert, to the northern coastal town of Qurayyat, it offers everything you need for a successful trip.

'Nothing short of a masterpiece' JAN MORRIS '[This] gloriously ornate account of that epic journey is a classic' ROBERT MACFARLANE 'Not only is this journey one of physical adventure but of cultural awakening. Architecture, art, genealogy, quirks of history and language are all devoured -- and here passed on -- with a gusto uniquely his' COLIN THUBRON, Sunday Times 'One of the most romantic books of the twentieth century, Patrick Leigh Fermor's account of a long walk across Europe is also a literary treasure, a rich blend of action and observation' Guardian In 1933, at the age of 18, Patrick Leigh Fermor set out on an extraordinary journey by foot - from the Hook of Holland to Constantinople. A Time of Gifts is the first volume in a trilogy recounting the trip, and takes the reader with him as far as Hungary. It is a book of compelling glimpses - not only of the events which were curdling Europe at that time, but also of its resplendent domes and monasteries, its great rivers, the sun on the Bavarian snow, the storks and frogs, the hospitable burgomasters who welcomed him, and that world's grandeurs and courtesies. His powers of recollection have astonishing sweep and verve, and the scope is majestic.

Let Secret London guide you around the unusual and unfamiliar. Step off the beaten track with this fascinating London guide book, now in its 4th edition. Let our local experts show you the well-hidden treasures and hidden places of this amazing city. Featuring over 230 unusual and unfamiliar places, this Secret London guide is ideal for local inhabitants, curious visitors and armchair travellers alike. Where can you peer inside Richard Burton’s tent? Whatever happened to Bedlam? Where can you praise God, buy meatballs and have a sauna? What's in the House of Dreams? What’s growing quietly under your feet? What’s the trick to instant weight loss? Far from the crowds and the usual cliches, London offers countless off-beat experiences and is home to any number of well-hidden treasures that are revealed only to residents and travellers who find their way off the beaten track. An indispensable guide for those who thought they knew London well or would like to discover the other face of the city. Secret London - An unusual guide is the original and still the best of all the many alternative London guides: accept no imitation. Authors Rachel Howard and Bill Nash have prowled the city streets, seeking out the hidden, eccentric and overlooked. The definitive insider’s guide to London.

Taking an architectural walking tour of Savannah is a great way to learn about the buildings and history of the city. This book, composed of three self-guided walking tours, takes you on a journey through Savannahs past and introduces you to the citys magnificent, historic architecture. Whether you have all day to spend on each tour or only an hour to quickly walk one route, these paths allow you to focus your sightseeing. If you cannot make it to Savannah in person, the 131 beautiful color photos give you a deeper understanding and appreciation of the city and its architecture.\nMeet the major architects who gave this city its distinctive look, including William Jay, John Norris, and William Preston, who were drawn to Savannah in its most prosperous eras to translate the popular styles of the time into Savannahs urban language. There is no better introduction to the welcoming city of Savannah, Georgia.

The most celebrated authors of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales are immortalized not only in their writing but also in the museums, libraries, and other memorials dedicated in their honor. Over 300 sites devoted to 42 authors are covered in this guide. The sites range from restored historic homes to memorial statues. Each entry describes the site and its history, placing it within the context of the authors life and career. Directions are provided to help the reader reach each site; telephone numbers, admission prices, and hours are also included for the travelers convenience. The text is illustrated with photographs from these historic and literary homes, libraries, and other important memorial locations.