Is it Safe to Travel to the Balkans?

Balkans travel safety at Mehmed in Višegrad

In a few days, I’m going to be flying to the Balkans, where the Adventure Next conference will be taking place in Ohrid, Macedonia. In addition to attending the conference, I’ll be renting a car and visiting some of the nearby countries, many of which I haven’t been to before. Safety is a big concern …

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Everything Wrong With the Animaniacs Nations of the World Song

If you grew up during the ’90s, or if you were just around for it, you might remember a catchy tune sung by Yakko Warner of the Animaniacs. That song recounted all the nations of the world in one fast-paced list. If you have never heard Yakko’s World before, take a listen right now. It …

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Visiting Erta Ale: The Hike to Hell and Back

Ethiopia is a wonderful country with pleasant temperatures and friendly people. I enjoyed the food, the people, and the sites I visited on my recent trip there. I’ll certainly be returning at some point in the future. However, every rule has an exception. The Danakil Depression, which is in the northeastern corner of the country …

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Aksum, Ethiopia

Aksum, Ethiopia World Heritage Site

Aksum is the most significant pilgrimage site in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, and one of the largest tourist attractions in the country. Aksum is important for several reasons: It was the seat of the Axumite Empire, which reached its peak in the first millennium. The Axumite Civilization was one of the largest and most important …

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