Traveling to Germany? Don't Leave Without Seeing Berlin

All of us have different pictures in our mind when we think of Germany's capital. Some envision the stiff confines of a war-era compound, others, old churches and buildings. The truth is, Berlin has a certain ambiance and feel for history; if you're visiting that great and controversial country of "Deutschland," it should not be missed. For those of you who have German ancestry, this is *the* city to begin your journey to self-discovery. The place is of course famous for the Berlin Wall, so you may wish to start at the Berlin Wall Museum. Once you've learned some interesting tidbits about the Wall and Berlin in general, it's time to explore the city and find some great things to see and do.

It may seem odd to find a Jewish museum in the middle of a country well known for the infamous Holocaust, but Berlin is full of such surprises. To learn about the experiences of the Jewish people who have lived in Germany for countless centuries, stop by the Jewish Museum. Everything from fascinating exhibits to ancient documents can be found here. If you have Jewish ancestry or are interested in the Holocaust, this is a great place to go. It is a fantastic museum for a "teaching tool" if you're traveling with children.

You might want to visit Berlin's Parliament Building, also known as Reichstag, just to experience the architectural achievement. The huge Renaissance structure, seemingly more fit to be an ancient palace, will be one of the most impressive sights you will see while you travel through Berlin. It is hard to comprehend the work that went into creating such rich detail. This will be one of the places you will most likely put your camera to good use! The glass elevators are particularly striking. If you travel extensively, you might notice the similarity in design of other palaces and government buildings throughout Europe.

For an older piece of history, visit Brandenburg Gate (also known as Brandenburger Tor) which was constructed in the 1700s. If you do your research you will learn that it is a definitive landmark in Berlin. This is another great photo stop; as I've said in previous travel articles, it doesn't cost anything to look and capture special sights on film, so save some cash in Berlin and take advantage of these *free* experiences. Brandenburg Gate is especially important to Berlin's history because of its association with Friedrich Wilhelm, and its classical Roman design adds elegance to the modern city.

For some shopping and dining, stop by Unter den Linden in East Berlin. This well-known street is like "Anytown U.S.A." in many ways. Historical sites compete with shops and pedestrian traffic. Grab a bite to eat, enjoy Berlin's architecture, and don't be surprised to find little surprises hidden behind every nook and cranny. Unter den Linden's historic past is evident in many places and it is one of the most noted streets in the city. From there, stop by the Pariser Platz, another largely visited part of the city, for some shopping experiences. Shopping isn't really your thing? How about Victorian history?

If you're a history buff, especially in the Victorian department, the Berliner Dom (the Cathedral) may be of interest to you. It doesn't have such an old and venerable history as more famous European churches, but it is a beautiful sight to behold. Although the Cathedral was built between the 1890s and the first years of the 1900s, a similar type of cathedral has stood on this spot since the 15th century. If the baroque architecture and beautiful domes don't draw you in, the interior certainly will. You can plan your visit any day of the week, as the Dom's hours are extremely flexible. Don't forget to see the almost 500-year-old Sauer's Organ and striking stained glass windows.

One of the most important things to remember when visiting Berlin is to keep all your senses open. Don't forget to see all the historical elegance, smell the fresh goods baking at the market, and hear the native tongue that will remind you that you're "not in Kansas anymore." The greatest piece of advice for aspiring travelers is this; don't just visit as a tourist, see a few small sites, buy some cheap souvenirs and go home. Truly *look* at everything, use your senses, and let the city of Berlin imprint itself in your memory.

By Lacie R. Schaeffer

The New Zoo and the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary

By Christina VanGinkel

If you happen to be anywhere in the vicinity of Green Bay Wisconsin, and are a lover of anything wildlife related, be sure to stop by the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary and the New Zoo. Both are a fantastic way to become one with nature, enjoy a stroll outdoors, and be introduced to a wide range of animal life, birds, and scenery all at their finest.

Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary

The Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, located at 1660 East Shore Drive Green Bay, WI 54302, is situated on 700 acres, and is referred to as an urban wildlife refuge. The first time we visited it was many years ago, and we have been back numerous times since. Each time, we are greeted by something new, something amazing. If we run to Green Bay for just about any reason, if we have the time available, or think we do, we make sure and stop by for at least a quick visit, as it is the perfect place to unwind from a busy schedule. It is open year round, and while they do accept donations, admittance is free, so it really is open to anyone who has a love of the outdoors.

The park has 6.5 miles of trail available, that you can hike in the spring, summer, fall, and cross-country ski on in the winter months, weather permitting. There are picnic areas available to enjoy an outdoor meal, and wheelchairs are available for those who need a little extra help traversing the park.

There are a few rules that the park posts, including no pets allowed, stay on the marked trails, and only feed the geese and ducks. Do not feed the other animals. For a full list of rules, they are posted about for all to see.

There is a large indoor Nature Education Center, which is home to many hands-on exhibits. The center is home to an Estuary, library, animal encounter pods, including insects and spiders, mammals, birds, and reptiles and amphibians. The building also offers vending machines and indoor bathrooms, an art gallery, and a gift shop.

The New Zoo

The New Zoo, along with the Brown County Reforestation Camp, is actually located about eleven miles northwest of Green Bay, but is well worth the drive out. Together they cover a 1560-acre parcel of land, encompassing both the zoo itself, along with miles of trails, trout ponds, and picnic areas. The grounds are also home to a large playground area, and there are grills available for anyone wanting to have an impromptu or planned outdoor picnic with hot, grilled foods. They also host special events throughout the year, such as breakfast with the Easter Bunny to help you celebrate Easter, and trick or treating throughout the park during Halloween.

The zoo itself has gone through several transformations since its origination, all seemingly for the better. New animals are often arriving, and I never tire of stopping by for a visit. Our most memorable trip was when my youngest son was all of about three or four years old (he is now thirteen) and he so wanted to go play with the monkeys. He proclaimed he was hot, begged to take off his t-shirt, which I allowed him to do, then nonchalantly tossed it up to the fence by the monkeys. They had it in an instant, and we had to ask maintenance for help to retrieve it. I will admit I was embarrassed, but we have never forgotten this, and to this day, we ask him if he wants to go play with the monkeys every time we head to Green Bay, no matter the occasion!

The New Zoo is home to many different animals, with their newest arrivals a pair of giraffes by the names of Hodari and Zuri, nicknamed Brave and Pretty. They arrived at the end of 2005, and have made themselves right at home, among the population of both foreign and domestic animals. The zoo houses animals from Australia, Africa, the North American Plains, and several that are native to Wisconsin.

The next time you happen to be in the Green Bay Wisconsin area, be sure to take time out and stop by the New Zoo and the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, you will not be disappointed!

Local Attractions

By Christina VanGinkel

My husband in on vacation from work for the next six days, and we have not planned any formal type of getaway. We usually do for the spring break he routinely takes from work, but with our youngest son on vacation in Texas, visiting his Aunt and Uncle, we just never took the time to plan any of our normal activities. Still, we would like to do something, so we have decided to stop by our local tourist information center today, and see what local attractions we may be overlooking, and possibly plan a few side trips right here in our own backyard.

With the soaring gas prices arriving once again to meet summer travelers, more people may want to entertain the same idea. When you live in an area for so long, you often take what is right in your own neighborhoods for granted. Just off hand, I can count at least half a dozen attractions that are in the area we live, with several that I personally have never taken the time to visit.

A few places of interest that are all within an hours drive of where we live that instantly come to mind include:

Iron Mountain Iron Mine and Museum

The Iron Mountain Iron Mine, about fifteen minutes from my home in the small town of Vulcan Michigan, (It is not in the neighboring town of Iron Mountain as many outside of the area visitors might assume) presents a modern day look at the boom of iron ore mining. The mine offers a tour that takes visitors 400 feet below the surface, through 2600 feet of underground tunnels. Visitors are guided by experienced tour operators who explain both how the mine was developed and how 22 million tons of iron ore was taken from the area over a periods ranging from 1870 until 1945. I actually grew up a mere five-minute pedal bike ride from the mine, and would ride by the giant wooden structure, dubbed 'Big John', the world's largest miner that was created in the image of a miner to greet visitors to the mine, yet I never visited it myself. My children have all attended it for one occasion or another, from a birthday outing with a group of friends, to a school sponsored trip while studying the effects of mining iron ore to the local area. After taking a tour of the mine, they also offer an onsite museum and gift shop that everyone has said is almost as interesting as the mine itself.

Cornish Pump and Mining Museum

Located in Iron Mountain Michigan, about a half an hour from my home is the Cornish Pump and Mining Museum. It is located next to the Chapin Pit, which was tops for Iron Ore production during its day. The Cornish Pump is actually the largest steam driven pumping engine ever constructed in the United States. Weighing in at 725 tons, it first went into operation in 1893. Located in a building built up around the pump to house it and protect it for future generations is a museum that is touted as one of the best of its kind. It has a WWII glider exhibit, and large amounts of mining equipment, the largest in Michigan overall. It also is home to many local artifacts donated by the public. I was in the museum years back, but the building has undergone a complete renovation since that time, in part because a pit located next to the location of the pump itself caved in some years back. The area had to be cordoned off, and it was a major local attraction of its own for some time. This just goes to exemplify the area's ties to mining. Information on the cave in itself is also up for view in the museum.

These are just two tourist attractions that are located near where I live. What local attractions are you missing right in your own backyard? Stop by your local tourist information center or chamber of commerce for a list of area attractions that you can visit. If your area is too small to have either of these, check the local gas stations or stores for pamphlets, as they often will have a display just for tourist information. All with the added benefit of gas saved, and no lodging costs!

Colorado's Rainbow Lake Resort

There is little disagreement that the mountains of Colorado in the summertime are one of the most beautiful places on earth. Colorado summers are dry, clear, and warm, with chilly nights that may require a sweater. The insects are not a problem, as they are in other parts of the country, and while the days can get quite warm, the humidity level is so low, that the weather is always comfortable. The mountains of Colorado, while jagged and sometimes still showing snow in mid-summer, are covered with wildflowers and summer birds from their bases up to the tops of the above-timberline peaks. The raw beauty of the state is simply breathtaking.

There is one little-known place among the jagged peaks of the Collegiate range in central Colorado. The wide Arkansas Valley runs along the base of the Collegiate range, where giant 14,000 foot peaks jut above the valley with such names as Mount Harvard, Mount Princeton, and Mount Yale. These majestic mountains are imposing, almost intimidating, and they always have at least a small amount of snow at the very tops of their summits. Yet if one drives out of the small town of Buena Vista, a picturesque town right on the Arkansas River, and follows the winding road which leads to the top of Cottonwood pass (and the Continental Divide), there between the bases of Mount Princeton and Mount Yale is a tiny group of cottages known as Rainbow Lake Resort.

Rainbow Lake Resort is a group of eighteen red-painted cottages nestled on the shore of clear, beautiful Rainbow Lake. The lake is fed by Cottonwood creek, a tumbling creek that flows from the heart of the mountains, just up the pass. It is full of both rainbow and brown trout, and the fishing is always good. At the edge of the lake, right on the water, is the main building is the office and a small store. There, visitors can find a few tourist items, canned goods, and of course, fishing necessities. This is also where visitors can rent a boat to use on the lake. The front porch of the main building is lined with hummingbird feeders which are always full of about twenty hummingbirds buzzing busily around.

Each cottage is different and is equipped with beds, living room furniture, a full kitchen and a bathroom. The cottages vary in size and several of them have fireplaces. While there is electricity, there are no televisions and no phones. The main building has a phone in case of emergencies, but the cottages are blissfully phone-free.

After a day of fishing on the edge of the lake or rowing a boat out to the center of the lake, many visitors will enjoy the multitude of hiking trails around Rainbow Lake Resort. Trails go off in every direction; ambitious trails for those who want to hike to the tops of the mountains, and scenic walking trails which take hikers through the woods, over small foot-bridges, and back around the lake.

While Rainbow Lake Resort is self contained, the small town of Buena Vista is not far for those who want to purchase groceries (if mountain lake fish is not enough for you to eat) or if dinner in a restaurant is sought one evening. There are also several horse-back riding establishments and white water rafting opportunities nearby. Mountain climbing, biking and other summer sports are popular throughout the area.

The best part about Rainbow Lake Resort is the quiet. The guests are normally families or friends who simply want to get away from it all, fish a bit, and enjoy one another's company. The evenings are lazy and calm; the days are sunny and warm. The people who run the place are friendly and helpful. The hummingbirds are adorable and the lake is simply beautiful.

If a quiet, sunny, mountain vacation is what you seek, consider going to Rainbow Lake Resort. It is charming, rustic, and serene. Often on the sunny afternoons, the only sounds that can be heard are the birds chirping and the wind whispering through the aspen leaves. Sometimes the only thing to do is read a book, take a walk, or sit and think. It makes one never want to go home.

The 100-Mile Wilderness of the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a 2000-plus mile trail that winds its way through the hills, valleys and mountains from Georgia to Maine. Each year, hundreds of thousands of hikers spend time walking on various parts of the Appalachian Trail. Accessible in hundreds of locations, many will seek to do day hikes, while others might choose to camp out near the trail for a weekend getaway. Still others might choose to hike the length of the trail through an entire state, taking several weeks to do it. Amazingly, there are hundreds of hikers each year to plan, train, and set out to walk the entire length of the Appalachian Trail. While few actually finish the trail in one year, many will ultimately cover it in several years or at least once in their lifetime, hiking bits and pieces of it as they can.

The most popular way to hike the trail is to go from south to north: from Georgia to Maine. This way, hikers can begin in the early spring in Georgia, when the weather has turned warm and hiking conditions are favorable, and reach Maine by September or October, in the height of fall foliage season, before the winter snows begin. But even the most ambitious hiker who has hiked from Georgia to Maine has found that the most difficult part of the Appalachian Trail is the dreaded 100-mile wilderness in Maine.

After hiking more than 2000 miles in five months or more, it would seem that nothing could deter a hiker. They are used to having little food, carrying a heavy pack, and sleeping in sometimes dire conditions. They are oblivious to the weather and they have even learned to live off the land. But when a hiker arrives in Monson, Maine, he will find warning signs after crossing the road and finding the next trail head. The signs warn that the last 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail are inaccessible; meaning, there are no towns, no stores, no homes, no telephones, no food sources, no help. Lying just past that sign are 100 miles of pure wilderness. Hikers may be privileged to see moose, bald eagles, and black bear, but they won't see any convenience stores or phone booths; and hikers might just as well leave their cell phones off because there is little or no reception, except on the tops of mountains, and that only sketchy at best.

Hikers from all over the world often forego the rest of the Appalachian Trail and set out to conquer just the 100-mile wilderness. Books have been written and websites set up to teach hikers how to carry at least ten days worth of food on their backs. They are taught what to bring, or more importantly, what not to bring. Minimalizing is obviously best, and learning which foods are the lightest, but which also will give the most energy.

Ironically, the 100-mile wilderness is also the most difficult part of the Appalachian Trail. Hikers who have hiked the wilderness are shocked at the steep inclines, the many water crossings through cold, Maine rivers, and the true "wilderness" of it all. The trail markers are maintained, but the trail is not; more often than not, there are roots or even small trees growing in the trail, and if hikers do not pay attention, they can easily become lost.

If you or anyone you know wishes to tackle the 100-mile wilderness, plan ahead. Train hard, as if you were going to run a marathon. Study and plan about which foods to take, and how to carry your bed, your kitchen, and your personal items on your back. Have an identification on you and never hike alone. Though you will meet other hikers on the 100-mile wilderness, injuries and illnesses can happen and you will want to have a safety plan.

If you set out to hike the 100-mile wilderness of the trail and you are successful, you will experience things unlike anything else. You will see things beauty and the ruggedness of nature that only our early ancestors saw. And when you reach the end, the summit of Mount Katahdin in central Maine, you will feel pride and accomplishment unlike any other.