http://www.sarah-baxter.com en-gb sarah-baxter.com 2012-3-16T00:00:00Z sarah-baxter.com http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114720 Well its certainly better to be in Somaliland today than it was yesterday.This enclave of East Africa is an autonomous if unrecognised breakaway bit of Somalia. The latter is not the best place to be ever its frequently voted the unhappiest most corrupt nation on the planet. But Somaliland is a different story and yesterday pioneering publisher Bradt released its first guidebook to the place.Its unlikely that the hordes will now flock here though it is a good time with the DecemberMarch cool dry season being the best for pleasant exploring.But if I was there today at least Bradts handy tome would help me stay on the safer side of the fence and would point out the local mustsees.Id take in capital Hargeisa and the medieval port of Berbera Id look out for jackals gazelles and baboons on the lofty Daallo Escarpment and Id be pretty impressed by the 10000yearold rock art at Las Geel so bright it looks like it was painted last week.Mostly though Id be smug in the knowledge that I was part... 2012-3-16 08:30:57 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114628 Theyve arrivedYesterday saw the first whale sharks of the season which runs from MarchApril to June float by Ningaloo Marine Park in Western Australia.Today I would desperately love to float with them.Dive and snorkel trips from the town of Exmouth are the best ways to see these 18mlong gentle giants as well as the 500odd other fish that live around the reef here. Or perhaps Id opt for a fourday seakayak safari paddling to parts snorkellers generally dont reach.This is remote territory Exmouth is a twohour flight or twoday drive north from Perth. Best drive and make the most of the journey stopping to surf in Kalbarri marvel at the Hamelin Pools fossils meet the friendly dolphins of Monkey Mia and wander the mango plantations of Carnavon where there might just be a few fruits still hanging around harvest season is NovFeb.See www.westernaustralia.com 2012-3-15 07:30:20 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114557 Nice one Einstein.I mean it nice one. You picked a fine place to be born.On this day in 1879 Albert Einstein was brought forth in Ulm southern Germany a memorial now marks the precise location. And on the offchance that it might boost my IQ and because this Danubeside spot looks both cuttingedge and comely this is where Id choose to be today.March isnt ideal weatherwise but city breaks are far more forgiving in wintry climes. Besides if I get chilly a quick climb up the 768 steps of Ulm Minsters tower at 162m the worlds tallest should warm me up.What else Id amble the ancient centre the city was founded in 850 walking around the halftimbered Fischerviertel Fishermens Quarter and among the wonky buildings including the lesserknown Leaning Tower of Ulm. Id search for sparrows too these little birds are Ulms mascot legend says one helped build the minster and sculptures of them are hidden all over the show.Its not all old now churches and cobbles are interspersed with modern gashes of ... 2012-3-14 08:28:19 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114476 Walking up on a foggy morn I feel the need for a little sparkle. And there are few places better for that than a remote spot in Arctic Sweden.Abisko nearly 200km north of the Arctic Circle and many more kilometres from pretty much anything else is one of the worlds best places to see the northern lights. Its virtually always clear and cloudfree light pollution is zero dark winter skies provide the perfect canvas.This year its better than ever so say NASA 20122013 marks a 50year peak in auroral activity. And the past few weeks at Abisko have seen a highlight within that peak. Reports from Abisko reckon that sunspot AR1429 has been going bonkers stirring up an almost constant solarparticle party for a fortnight super streaks of emerald that are right now thanks to another celestial phenomena interlacing with the brilliant orbs of Venus and Jupiter. Just take a look...Id happily brave the Arctic chill for that.Get there Abisko is 100km west of Kiruna Discover the World offers a direct U... 2012-3-13 09:31:20 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114427 fontface fontfamily Times New Roman fontface fontfamily Arial p.MsoNormal li.MsoNormal div.MsoNormal margin 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt fontsize 12pt fontfamily Times New Roman table.MsoNormalTable fontsize 10pt fontfamily Times New Roman div.Section1 page Section1 Today being Commonwealth Day it seems only fitting to want to be within it. Thats over 54 sovereign states to choose from. But given the choice today Id choose Sri Lanka. Specifically Id pick the Indian Ocean isles southwest coast. In March this regions in dry season the main monsoon finished back in December the mini rains dont hit til May. Its wonderfully sunny too. But its also one of the best times to look for whales hereabouts. Which is grand as this is one of the best places in the world to spot the mighty blue. Blue whale sightings off Dondra Head near Galle are excellent in MarchApril 90 of boat trips right now manage to spy these behemoths huffing and blowing. ... 2012-3-12 13:13:29 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114307 Car drivers couchpotatoes and the bodour averse and those wanting to roam quietly around Georgian glory you probably shouldnt be in Bath today.I on the other hand dont want to be anywhere else.Today is the day of the Bath Half Marathon a 13.1miler around some of the Somerset citys pretty paved streets as well as some of its frankly lessscenic outskirts. And I WILL be there lacing my trainers with about 11000 others.I know this running lark isnt for everyone. But I think theres no better way to speedy sightsee and earn a slapup feed at the end of it. In Bath I recommend a pie at the Raven or lovely cakey things from the Guildhall Market.There is the small matter of making it round all those miles first including the sneaky hill up to Queens Square the soulsapping second loop and the final sprint down Great Pulteney Street. But it will end though it can seem to take an age those miles will tick down. And then its you a medal and a whole heap of endorphins.Even the spectators walk round... 2012-3-11 06:46:34 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114247 Today the gloves are off even though northeast England isnt that toasty in early spring.Because today I want to be watching the Mad March hares feisty fisticuffs at Saltholme RSPB Reserve.Pairs of hares start to box about now. Its not an expression of macho aggression rather its the lady lapins fighting off the unwanted amorous advances of the men.The bouts begin in February but its now that they become more frequent and more brawly you might see eight or nine couples sparring at the same time.The reserve is well set up for this rabbity ruckus two viewing platforms the boxingthemed red corner and blue corner have been set up at prime positions and on weekends throughout the month RSPB staff will be on hand to help you harespot.And if the hares dont put on their show Look out for the lapwings here which not to be upstaged spend March and April performing their odd acrobatic displays.Image Steve Round RSPB 2012-3-10 06:57:46 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114199 Today I want to tickle a whale.And there is nowhere better to do such an outrageoussounding thing than San Ignacio Lagoon on the Pacific coast of Baja California Mexico.Its fine and sunny here in March rainfall is low and temperatures hover around a pleasant 25176C. Not that Id really notice. Because the gathering of almost the entire world population of grey whales would cause a slight distraction.In winter these 15mlong leviathans cluster here in their thousands. Numbers actually tend to peak earlier in the season but its now that they seem to be at their friendliest.Usually you shouldnt fuss with animals look dont touch. But the grey whales of San Ignacio just love to have their heads scratched and stroked they butt against the small boats practically forcing passengers to show them some attention. It would be quite scary if they werent so very cute quite an achievement for 30000kg of blubber and barnacles.Oh there are dolphins galore here too. But even the flips and frolics of th... 2012-3-9 07:41:03 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114123 On International Womens Day I want to go where women rule.An article in the Independent yesterday reckoned the best place to be a woman in general was Iceland the best place to be a mother was Norway the best place to be a female politician was Rwanda.But it didnt mention Yunnan southwest China. Here in the area of Lugu Hu northeast of Lijiang live the Mosu people one of the last matriarchal societies in the world.Among the Mosu the mother is the centre of the family. These grand dames decide on inheritances pass on their names generally make the key decisions. There is no marriage as such rather walking marriages women chose partners when they fancy but might change their minds children are brought up by mum and her family not dad. The result by all accounts is an extremely stable society. And one where giving birth to baby boys is no more favoured than having girls.So today I would brave Marchs early spring chill averages now are around 10176C in Lijang though its dry and sunny and... 2012-3-8 06:40:33 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#114042 On this day in 1876 Alexander Graham Bell received his patent for the telephone. Today I want to blow a raspberry at Bell and the communications wizards that followed him by being somewhere no one can contact me at all. Phone coverage is pretty scant in Patagonia all those gnarled mountains and creaky glaciers get in the way of the strings between the paper cups. Which is fine by me I want to enjoy the trails without my mobile interrupting.Its just about time to get down to southern Chile and Argentina anyway peak exploring season is DecFeb its already getting a little chillier by March but the payoff is that the notorious Patagonian wind tends to drop making wild hikes and tented nights less blustered .Of course ideally Id checkin to a rather lovely lodge instead of sleeping under canvas. If I had several spare pesos perhaps Id try the Singular in Puerto Bories Chile pictured. Only just opened this former sheep factory built around 1915 is now a plush hotel.The striking building ov... 2012-3-7 09:13:52 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113975 Well if its good enough for Prince Harry its good enough for me.The young royal has just arrived on the cool Caribbean isle. Its a bit odd as Jamaicans are making noises about distancing themselves from the British monarchy. Maybe Harry just wants a nice holidayI dont blame him March is marvellous here. Rainfall is low temperatures are high though not oppressively so think 2231176C. Its the end of the very peak season but just before Aprils winds pick up which can make diving a little more difficult.I wouldnt follow the prince he has to visit hospitals and care homes. Instead I would eschew the worthy sites and also the lovely beaches to head inland. Id get up early for a dawn walk in the Blue Mountains fuelled by local coffee and jerk chicken. And Id slip and slide about the caverns ravines and jungle pools of Cockpit Country where theres not an allinclusive resort in sight.Id end up at the Pelican Bar off Treasure Beach. This shackonstilts sits out on the sea reachable only by boa... 2012-3-6 07:33:18 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113854 Shouldnt really be boozing first thing on a Monday... But given the chance today Id chose to be imbibing in Burma.Now it seems every traveller worth their khakis wants to be here at the moment what with the path to democracy looking smoother and Aung San Suu Kyi herself encouraging tourists. Most of those eager explorers are after sightseeing Pagans temples Inle Lake Mandalays highlights. All very impressive Im sure.I however fancy the wine.It doesnt seem the most obvious Asian mustsee. Which is probably why it appeals. But Burmas Red Mountain Estate just north of Inle looks pretty as a French picture its serried vines neatly lined just with exotic hills in the background and a few pythons slinking around the undergrowth.Id go now as March is good weatherwise dry and sunny cool at night but not too hot by day.But Id also chose now because the grapes are harvested midFeb to March it would be nice to see the heaving bunches being picked then retire to the chic cellar to complement t... 2012-3-4 18:37:08 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113812 Today Id like to be running 50plus miles over gnarly rocky hostile terrain thats lorded over by drugrunners and and rattlesnakes...Sort of.Today sees the start of the seventh Copper Canyon Ultra Marathon a race inaugurated in 2006 in the badland barrancos of northern Mexico by a gringo called Caballo Blanco who was keen to see the local Tarahumara Indians do running battle with some hardcore US ultra stars.The Tarahumara are awesome. They run and run and run in sandals made of tyres and basically whup most of the competition. They also LOVE running crisscrossing terrifying updowns that would reduce the most macho to tears with broad grins on their faces.Luckily March isnt the fiercest time to be in the barrancos still hot but not suicidally so. And the wildflowers should be lending the parched landscape some colour. Its still a tough ask racing that far I might opt for the 18mile option instead a trifling warmup jog to the Tarahumara.But the main thing would be soaking up some Cop... 2012-3-4 08:40:49 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113765 Todays forecast for Wyoming isnt great Mostly cloudy with a 50 chance of snow and a high near 32 0176C. Breezy with a WSW wind between 15 and 21 mph with gusts as high as 31 mph.But Id still like to be there exploring the worlds first ever national park.March is a true offseason Yellowstone. This park receives three million visitors a year but not many of them now.The oversnow season runs until 15 March from 15 Dec which means the next two weeks are the last you can explore by snowmobile or snow coach from midMarch to April the roads are closed while theyre prepared for the spring onslaught of regular vehicles.However I think Id chose snowshoes or crosscountry skis anyway so I could better and more peacefully get out into the wilderness. Need to be careful though March is when the resident bears start to emerge from hibernation. A sighting is a terrifying privilege good bear etiquette must be obeyed.Winter here is also a great time to track the 100 wolves that now live hereabouts fo... 2012-3-3 07:46:20 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113712 Stuff the Alps. If Im going to go skiing which I dont very often Im going to do it properly make an exotic holiday of it and go to Japan.And today Id go to the pistes of Niseko on the north island of Hokkaido. Its had a bumper season 18m of snow in the past three months so should be nice and powdery. But now weve sneaked into March it shouldnt be quite so chilly and days are sunnier and snowstorm free.The resort is vast and its popularity with Aussies means an Englishspeaking infrastructure is well in place. That said I wouldnt bother with a Fosters preferring my apres ski a little more local hot sake and a soak in a steaming onsen thermal spring if you please.I wouldnt stay on the slopes all the time. Id head over to the east of Hokkaido to Tanchozuru Park. Here until the end of the month the elegant redcrowned crane perform their mating dance in the snow bouncing leaping even throwing sticks in the air. A sort of avian StrictlyonicemeetsWinterwatch. Magic. 2012-3-2 08:19:39 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113685 Happy St Davids Day Leeks daffs Black Mountains red dragons it has to be Wales today.Its not that hot in March but the spirit of cwtch should keep you warm. Like Danish hygge or German Gem252tlichkeit theres no direct translation of cwtch but roughly it means safe place an affectionate hug that confers cosiness and protection. Ill raise a Brains beer to that. 2012-3-1 17:37:37 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113572 If I was a romantic type which Im really not or if I was feeling all Girl Powery without the Union Jack dress and wanted to scare the bejesus out of my boyfriend Id be in New York today.Because its Leap Day. And if I was going to pop the question I think Id do it here. FebruaryMarch is still a bit nippy in NYC but the offseasonness should help secure a hotel bargain and mean wandering the streets wouldnt get too sweaty indeed Id be able to wrap up in chic hat and scarf and pretend Im Meg Ryan in When Harry Met Sally.But to the BIG QUESTION... If Id saved enough on the flights by visiting in an unpopular month I might book a table at 21 Club New Yorks onetime famed speakeasy where Humphrey Bogart allegedly proposed to Lauren Bacall at table 34. The chefs can even hide the ring in a specially constructed pudding though that sounds like a waste of good cake to me.Chances are Id be too tight for such grand gestures though. So instead Id lead the other half out into Central Park Id take him... 2012-2-29 09:11:01 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113511 OK its sortof not ideal. The best months to be in Cambodia are December and January. Now at the end of Feb temperatures are creeping up to their oppressive April highs. But Id still like to be in Cambodia today. And somewhere quite specific.Song Saa Private Island opened earlier this month. And it looks dreamy. I am normally pretty immune to an overwater villa whats the point of seeking romantic solace on a tiny deserted island if all the shacks are so close together but this now this place looks something else.The reason I want to be there is because very few people are. Cambodias islands the largely uninhabited Ko Rong archipelago are allegedly the Thai isles of 20 years ago unspoilt pristine and paradisiacal. But I also like the sound of the extras kayaking out amid bioluminescence stargazing with an expert and a telescope a private dinner on the beach. And if that late Febearly March heat gets too much Ill just flop out the side of my fancy floating room and cool off with the ... 2012-2-28 13:23:22 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113480 Im not a surfer. But if I was and Id quite like to be if only for the hair today Id head for Peru.In the countrys north the swell is swellest right now beaches such as Cabo Blanco and M225ncora are crowded but quieter breaks can be found. Plus the waters at its warmest a decent 21176C.It is a little damp elsewhere in the country I grant you Perus wetter spell lasts until May. But the Inca Trail closed for the whole of February reopens 1 March. So Id have time to ride or wipeout in some waves then bus down to Cusco for the worlds most famous walk which would be looking fresh following its wellearned rest. 2012-2-27 22:03:27 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113356 Quick Not long left to get to the White Continent before those fluffy little penguin chicks Ad233lies and gentoos and comedyquiffed macaronis fly the coup.Late February is still just warm enough a balmy 0176C for comfy expedition cruising. But its from now to midMarch that all those birds leave Antarcticas icy land for a life at sea.The seas worth watching anyway though whalesightings peak around the Antarctic Peninsula in February and March. Just remember to pack binoculars and plenty of ginger to combat the nauseating turbulence of the southern seas... 2012-2-26 16:39:46 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113291 Im not a follower of fashion. But Id be willing to follow it to the Dominican Republic.For the Caribbean isle is in full Fashion Week fervour at the moment the event runs 2126 Feb 2012. And watching pretty dresses parade down a catwalk sounds more fun here than in London or Milan. You fancy there might be more colour fewer selfconscious pouts more exuberant grins.In honesty I probably wouldnt bother with the designtypes and dressmakers at all. No this is the time to explore the Dominican Republics rather lovely outdoors beyond the honeymooncliche allinclusives. Its balmy dry winter when the island is best for hiking perhaps up 3098m Pico Duarte the Caribbeans highest point. Its also best for whalewatching from January to March thousands of humpbacks gather off the Saman225 Peninsula and a quick cruise can get you incredibly close. 2012-2-25 18:11:50 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113164 John Madden director of new Britluvvyfest The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel which opens in UK cinemas today reckons that the one thing his Jaipurset movie couldnt capture was the citys assault on the nose.The film trailers look fabulous vibrant colours buildings at just the right level of crumbliness seething smiling life but yes the smell of India is missing.And its quite a smell. Nothing can transport you back to this nation of 1.2 billion quite as quickly as its unique miasma of sweet woodsmoke exhaust fumes masala spice and human effluent.So today I would skip the queues at the Odeon and head for Jaipur itself. February is perfect winter sees warm but not too hot days and cool nights the monsoon rains are still a few months off. Hang around and youll catch Jaipurs Elephant Festival 7 March 2012 where painted eles parade the streets and dumbo polo is the sport of choice.Id take an evening walking tour of the pink city nibbling from street vendors watching craftsmen and nosing into t... 2012-2-24 11:58:12 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113089 Today I want to be hugging an oversized Floridian mammal. And I dont mean Mickey Mouse.I want to be bumping up against perhaps that most gorgeously ugly lumpen creature to ever grace the seas the manatee.That sea cows were ever mistaken for mermaids as the legend goes says more about sailors rumconsumption than the appearance of a manatee. But while theyre not the prettiest these chubby walrusalikes are nonetheless adorable. And a winter Thursday in Florida is a fine time to get close.Manatees dislike the cold. So in the chillier months DecMar they congregate in Floridas warm natural springs easier to spot as they gather in just a few places. The best place is Crystal River where you can don mask and snorkel and bask with them.Mornings are ideal the manatees tend to scatter come afternoon. And midweekdays Tuesday to Thursday are more fun as there are fewer other snorkellers to get in the way.Fortunately winter here is a relative term and air temperatures are still around 20176C. And ... 2012-2-23 12:36:29 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#113014 Its one year since a devastating earthquake shook up Christchurch killing 185 people and damaging much of the city centre. But with typical kiwi grit the gentle South Island city is resurging with the panache and raw energy of an All Blacks back.So Id like to be there today and not least because late Feb is still warm relatively dry and just inching out of highcost peaksummer. Id like to see the progress of the cardboard cathedral a temporary replacement for the one toppled by the quake.Id like to spend my dollars at the Cashel Mall ReStart project where 60odd shipping containers have been tacked together to form a makeshift shopping centre.And Id like to drive along the coast to Akaroa about 85km away to take a swim with rare and tiny Hectors dolphins.Id like to see the city getting back on its feet.Need to know To keep tabs on places steadily reopening across Christchurch check out popupcity.co.nz 2012-2-22 07:36:53 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112944 I am desperate to be in Nepal today. And for the next 152 days.Because today World Expeditions second Great Himalaya Trail full traverse trip a 1700km onfoot crossing of the worlds highest mountain range is amassing in Kathmandu and probably chomping pizza among the mountaineering paraphernalia of the Rum Doodle Bar getting ready for the off.Five months it will take to cross from far east Nepal to far west. Setting off under Februarys clear dry skies is a tantalising prospect. Soon the rhododendrons will be in bloom too.But forget the flowers. This epic hike which tops out at over 6000m is all about the mountains and meeting the people that live hidden away among them. One of the main missions of the GHT is to benefit remote communities that live otherwise cut off from the rest of the world.So theres no doubt if I had a spare 16319990 and 152 days me and my nodoubtdaunted legs would be flexing in Kathmandu ready ish to take on the adventure of a lifetime. Not so hardcore The less ha... 2012-2-21 08:02:05 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112844 The best place to be in the world today should be Ottawa. Its the final day of Winterlude so the last chance to partake in the Canadian capitals nearthreeweeklong celebration of the chilly season what is essentially a cheery two begloved fingers up at the regions frigid temperatures.Only this year its not cold enough. Ottawas Rideau Canal should come February be frozen firm and aglide with budding Torvilles and Deans its 7.8km Skateway is Winterludes headline act. But right now its just a very damp squib. It takes a consistent 10176C or less to keep the Rideau suitably solid. And the biting Canadian climate is currently not biting hard enough leaving the canal a treacherous slushy mulch.Its a real shame. Because skating not that I really can along a sparkling icehighway right through the heart of the city sounds like an excellent way to sightsee. There are even stalls selling you hot chocolate right there on the encrusted canal so you neednt unlace your skates for a warming brew. Th... 2012-2-19 21:16:27 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112808 Perhaps he just looked out the window of his hacienda and thought you know what comrades Its just too beautiful to keep on running a country.On 19 February 2008 inveterate headhoncho Fidel Castro announced he was permanently stepping down from his role as Cubas president. Coincidence that he did so in this bestofmonths When the Caribbean isle is least humid most dry and luxuriating under balmy average highs of 27176CWell yes coincidence. Such diehard idealists arent swayed by a sunny day I dont think. But Fidel did pick an excellent time to start his retirement. And in doing so allowed gentle winds of change to start blowing about his nation.So today Id go to Cuba to drink mojitos in bars down Havana backstreets to take salsa lessons in crumbling dancehalls and scuba lessons on perfect reefs and to feel perhaps the last gasps of Castroism on this island quite unlike any other. Must do Visit Fidels childhood home Finca Las Manacas now a museum near Bir225n in Holgu237n province. Then ... 2012-2-19 09:16:03 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112763 Did you know that in February London gets on average just two hours of sunshine a day TWO No wonder were all SAD.So today I would pack my Seasonally Affected Disorder off to The Gambia. Considerably less glum this tiny slice of West Africa enjoys TEN HOURS of solar cheer per day in February not to mention average temperatures of up to 32176C. Its not all about the weather though 18 February is Gambian Independence Day. Im not saying Id rush to the parade in capital Banjuls McCarthy Square but I will certainly raise a Jul Brew to the nation as I let the winter sun work its magic.I would not be lazing in the beach however. I would shun the popular Atlantic beaches and head 270km up the Gambia River scanning for manatees and hippos en route to Badi Mayo home to the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Trust. Currently 77 primates live in the national park here. And small numbers of visitors the camp here holds around eight can stay in stilted tents pictured and spend days boating out to the river... 2012-2-18 07:57:09 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112693 Brazil is without doubt the country to be in today unless you have a severe allergy to either sequins or feathers. For today is the start of Carnaval a kneesup of religious provenance that appears anything but when you see those luminous revellers dancing about in not much at all. This is preLenten gay abandon a sparklybikinied saturnalia of bootyshaking and streetparading on a scale befitting such a vast nation.Rio is the obvious choice the citys famed samba schools and alfresco parties draw two million people a day but tickets for the main stadium can cost more than your airfare. Salvador in Bahia is oft touted as the more authentic alternative.But I would head for the twin cities of Olinda and Recife northeast Brazil where feverish frevo rhythms fill the colonial Portuguese streets tourists are few and far between and everything is delightfully free.Tonight Id jostle into the crowds in Recife to watch the madness process between the citys two islands and test the strength of my in... 2012-2-17 07:30:55 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112590 The best place in the world to be today Id say southern Egypt. Not just for desert sunshine a very pleasant nottoohot 21176C but for an extra layer of history should the country need more layers.It was on 16 February 1923 that Howard Carter first peeked inside Tutankhamuns tomb and saw the treasures within. I wouldnt bother following his precise footsteps King Tuts resting place is now devoid of its booty and the remaining void isnt nearly as interesting as many of the other chambers in the Valley of the Kings. It also requires an extra ticket the price of fame.No Id go to the Valley of the Kings as early as possible to beat the crowds to admire the hieroglyphs and craftwork of those Ancient Egyptians. But then Id head for Luxor and the river.The Nile is at its fullest in February. So Id board a traditional dahabiyya sailboat if I was feeling flush a barebones felucca if I wasnt and float off past temples tombs and millennia of unchanged life in the riverbank. 2012-2-16 07:53:02 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112519 31176C and sunny. Enough saidFebruary is all summery loveliness in laidback Melbourne. Maybe even a little too hot at times but its also the month of lowest rainfall average 1.8 inches not a bad trade off. And if it gets too toasty you can wander down to the beach at St Kilda and jump into the ocean.But what really appeals about Melbourne today is a balmy evening at the Moonlight Cinema. The Royal Botanic Gardens home to eucalypts cacti and camellias year round is taken over by the big screen during the austral summer. Crowds gather on the lawn with friends and picnics the opening credits start to roll as the sun goes down.Tonights movie is Melancholia a very cheery offering postValentines Day but a stream of blockbusters and arty flicks will be played out under the stars until 25 March 2012.For something sloshier Id head out of town on Friday. At Rochford Winery in the nearby Yarra Valley one hours drive Movies in the Vineyard shows films alfresco at weekends from now til April wit... 2012-2-15 08:44:57 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112446 Its not warm in Umbria today perhaps 4176C with winter sunshine but its arguably hot if you head to the city of Terni.Its not actually that pretty a place Word War bombing and a distinctly unromantic weaponsproduction industry have seen to that but it is ideal for fully embracing Valentines Day. It was here on the plains around the Nera River that St Valentine did his bishoping in the third century. And now his remains are interred in the nearby Basilica at San Valentino 2km southwest conferring their posthumous patronage on affianced couples marriage and love in general not to mention epileptics and bees.Actually I might want to defer my visit until Sunday the 19th when the annual Terni Marathon takes over the streets plodding past the Marmore Waterfall at 165m the highest in Europe. Afterall according to research couples who train together stay together. But for authenticity if not the main celebrations the 14th is the fitting date to pay your respects to the swoonsome saint handily... 2012-2-14 07:53:28 http://www.sarah-baxter.com/page2.htm#112385 Right now it will be chucking it down in Zambia. Absolutely hurling. But it will also be absolutely buzzing and I dont mean with malarious mossies.February may be one of the wettest months in the southern African nation though not as horribly hot and sticky as NovDec. But I would still love to be there. Because Zambia Zambia has just won the Africa Cup of Nations. Can you even name a single Zambian player Im no John Motson but I can list a few fellows from the Ivory Coast lineup the team of famous favourites beaten in the final. But as for a single striker from the Zambian Copper Bullets not a clue.So imagine the atmosphere in Zambia today. Amid the fecund foliage absurdly green after three months of rainyseason dousing is a nation going bonkers. The bars of Lusaka are no doubt achink with Mosi beers. Victoria Falls currently in highwater splendour anyway is probably churning with that bit extra gusto. Well at least on the Zambian side Zimbabwe didnt even qualify for the tournamen... 2012-2-13 09:42:55