Archive for December, 2009
Great road trips from 2009
During the past year, I wrote a series of articles on the subject of themed road trips in North America. The premise was that while road trips are a popular way to travel, especially in the United States, one can easily go beyond the traditional journeys through national parks or along coastlines. In fact, it’s both easy and fun to bypass the [...]
Cultural differences in the Chinese and American workplaces
Much has been written about the differences between the cultures of the United States and China, but what in practical terms do these differences mean? Hannah Seligson just wrote a business article for the NY Times about the growing trend of young Americans taking jobs in China, and about the cultural challenges that arise when people from two [...]
Christmas foods and traditions from around the world
In two days, families around the world will gather to celebrate the Christmas holiday. The traditions that they share will vary by country, region and culture. This includes the foods that they’ll enjoy for a holiday meal. For a glimpse into a few of these holiday dishes, check out this article about Christmas treats and traditions from [...]
A journey into the Christian culture of Syria
Since the Christmas season is upon us, it’s an appropriate time to take a look at holiday and religious-themed topics from around the world. Today, it’s a view into the ancient Christian community of Syria. Although this Middle Eastern nation has had a Muslim majority for well over a millennium, the region plays a central [...]
Riel World photo – Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater Lake, Oregon A picturesque view of Crater Lake in Oregon. This is the deepest lake in the United States and it was formed when water collected in the caldera of a collapsed volcano.
The innovation challenge in India
India has made tremendous economic strides in recent years on the strength of its outsourcing businesses, but many Indians fret that the nation will not be able to take the next step forward until the culture develops a more innovative nature. The NY Times just ran an interesting business feature on this topic. Even as the [...]
Stargazing in the Southwest
In August, I wrote about some of the best stargazing destinations worldwide, based on an article I’d written for Matador Travel. Now it’s time to look more specifically about stargazing destinations in the Southwestern United States. This time, I put together a road trip itinerary for Examiner.com that stretches from West Texas to Southern California [...]
Enjoy French culture without visiting France
So you’re craving a taste of French culture – the cafes, the food, the bread, maybe even the language – but a trip to France is not in your immediate future. Well, there are places where you can experience French culture even if you can’t make it to Paris or Provence at the moment. Katie [...]
Life and music in Senegal
West Africa is not a heavily touristed place. It’s also not the first region that comes to mind when one contemplates great musical destinations. And yet there is a thriving music scene in Senegal, and especially in the capital city of Dakar, that would appeal to any musically inclined traveler. The NY Times just ran [...]
Riel World photo – Painted Desert, Arizona
Painted Desert, Arizona. A view of the Painted Desert in Arizona. This is one of several places where you can see the North American badlands, a distinctive landscape that can be found in Arizona, South Dakota, Nebraska and western Canada, among other destinations. If you’d like to see other photos of badlands in the Painted [...]
The Mexican cuisine of Michoacan
Mexican food we know. But how many of us are familiar with the cuisine of the different regions of Mexico? Just as in the U.S., each region of that country has its own unique tastes and dishes. If you’re interested in knowing more about these regional differences, you might check out Patricia Jinich’s essay for NPR’s [...]
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Bob Riel is a writer and a traveler. Go here to read more about Bob, his work and the Travels in the Riel World blog.
Great American Road Trips
Two Laps Around the World
My travel memoir - Two Laps Around the World: Tales and Insights from a Life Sabbatical - is about two round-the-world journeys with my wife.
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