Travel with A Land Of Marvels

04/12/2024

When I was told a mausoleum was one of the stops on our last day, I was not expecting the imposing and monumental structure that greeted us. High on a hill, and with amazing views over the ocean, it was fit for a queen.

And not just any old queen. It was in fact built for Queen Cleopatra Selene, the daughter of that OTHER Queen Cleopatra, no less.

Despite there being fragments of an inscription dedicated to both the queen and her husband, King Juba, their remains have never been found. This could be due to tomb raiders, or maybe it was meant to be a memorial, rather than a place of burial.
Some theories suggest that their real mausoleum might be another large elaborate monument that is still waiting to be discovered...

Mystery also surrounds her date of death, with everything from 9BC to 14AD being thrown around in scholarly circles, with 5BC and 8AD being the strongest contenders.

Like most famous burial sites, it comes with a curse or two.
In 1555, orders were given to pull it down. However that effort was abandoned after large black wasps swarmed out and stung some of the workers to death.
At the end of the 1700s, the ruling Dey tried in vain to destroy it with artillery, but that was another major fail.

I love that this queen's history and legacy continue to captivate historians and archaeologists, and that her story is somewhat shrouded in mystery and legend - it's fitting for the only daughter of Cleopatra and Marc Antony, no?



Crooked Compass

29/11/2024

One of our days was spent like this -

- Discovering the hidden wonders of an ancient Berber village. This abandoned settlement offered a rare glimpse into the architectural ingenuity of the Berber people. We wandered through crumbling stone dwellings, explored narrow alleyways lined with centuries-old structures, and marvelled at the breathtaking views of the surroundings.
First inhabited 700 years ago, abandoned only in 1968.

- Wandering through an oasis or two, seeking the original water source for the area, and meeting a local farmer whose people have been farming this sometimes inhospitable landscape for hundreds of years. What a remarkable testament to human ingenuity and resilience, where vast, arid grounds are transformed into thriving agricultural hubs. At one water pool a group of ladies was picnicking, washing, cleaning, all hidden behind a blanket, carrying on ages-old traditions.

- A private and peaceful lunch in the heart of a desert oasis, where the air is cool and the leaves of the palms provide a respite from the sun. We were surrounded by lush greenery, and fed traditional food, much of it cooked over an open fire. It was like a scene out of a movie. We ate until we could eat no more, and then the blanket beckoned :) Not for long though!

- Tracing petroglyphs, which showcase the rich heritage of the Sahara and her people. Spanning thousands of years, these fascinating paintings and engravings are found on cliffs, caves, and rock faces across the vast desert landscape. The art reveals glimpses of early human life, depicting intricate scenes of hunting, wildlife, and daily activities. Visiting Algeria's rock art is not just a journey through history—it’s an opportunity to connect with the ancient civilizations that once flourished in the heart of the Sahara.

It was a perfect day for those seeking adventure, history, and a sense of awe in a tranquil and remote world.




Crooked Compass

28/11/2024

Travelling to the UK?

From the 8th January 2025, Australian passport holders will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit or transit through the UK.

🔹 Mandatory for visits up to 6 months for tourism, business, visiting family, short-term study, or transit.
🔹 Cost: GBP10
🔹 Processing time: Up to 3 business days, possibly longer
🔹 Valid for 2 years or until passport expiry.
🔹 Multiple entries allowed during validity.

*** Without a valid ETA (or visa), Australian passport holders will not be able to enter the UK ***

Applications are now open, learn more and apply here
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.

Information on who can get an ETA and how to apply before coming to the UK.

26/11/2024

Dear Djemila, I'm sorry to say you have a worthy rival for my affections, and it's another ancient Roman town, that by the name of Timgad.

The fact that, courtesy of travelling with Crooked Compass, I got to meet, chat to and spend time with the head archaeologist, does give it a slight advantage. Also in its favour is the fact that I got to be hands-on and help excavate!!

OMG what a time to be alive! There is such an undeniable thrill of working on a mosaic and uncovering tesserae that have not seen the light of day, or the foot-fall of a Roman soldier, for at least 1400 years.

As each still-vibrant tile is revealed, it's like unlocking a forgotten story, and it offers a glimpse into the culture and craftsmanship, not to mention creativity, of a civilization long gone.

The excitement of discovery is amplified by the sense of awe and wonder, knowing that these masterpieces, once lost to time, are finally stepping into the light after centuries of darkness.
Such an incredible opportunity, and I literally could have spent days doing just that, but the site is huge and there is much to see, so they had to eventually drag me away.

Timgad is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and boasts well-preserved ruins including a grand theatre, temples and a basilica. It covers approximately 50 hectares, however only 40% has been excavated. The ground is absolutely littered with artifacts, so it does make you wonder what treasures are still waiting to be discovered.

It is probably one of the main draw cards for international tourists, yet when we arrive we are the only ones here. Once again let's compare it to Pompeii, where visitor numbers have been capped at 20000 per day.
Algeria only had 230 visitors in total from Australia last year.

And this, my friends, is why you visit Algeria - no crowds, no pushing, no rushing, free to wander and wonder at your leisure. And we all know what a fan I am of wandering and wondering :)

23/11/2024

Even though sunset on the shape-shifting sands of the Sahara was a special finish to another day full of discovery and exploration, it was so magical it deserves its own post.

It is a mesmerising sight, as the hues of the setting sun paint the endless dunes in oranges, yellows and reds. The sand changes colour to reflect the fading light, and you simply have to sit there in silence to take it all in.

The vast emptiness of the Sahara stretches before you, with a miracle tree here and there. As the temperature falls with the sun, there is an open fire and hot tea to warm us up, and the cars provide a windbreak as we listen to some traditional music.

Magical indeed.



Crooked Compass

21/11/2024

Constantine, known as the "City of Bridges," is a stunning blend of history, culture, and dramatic landscapes.
Perched precariously on cliffs above the Rhumel River, its breathtaking views are complemented by striking architecture, including ancient Roman ruins, mosques, and the bridges that span the deep gorges.

With its vibrant markets, warm hospitality, and unique setting, Constantine offers visitors an unforgettable experience of Algeria’s timeless beauty and heritage.

Loved our time exploring here, including the casbah, the mosque, an Ottoman palace and the one of the quirkiest restaurants I have ever eaten in - fortunately the decor was no reflection on the food :)



Crooked Compass

20/11/2024

Camilla loves Djemila!

Yes, it's true, I do, and I'm happy to shout it from the rooftops!

Djemila is located in the north of Algeria, and is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, chock-a-block full of Roman ruins and artifacts. It's perfect for history and archaeology nuts (moi), and for those interested in art, architecture and culture.

After a wholesome and delicious lunch provided by a local family and served in their humble home, it was time to explore the small museum and then the site itself. What a treat!

There are NO crowds; I can pretty much guarantee that you will have the place to yourself. And to put that into some sort of perspective, compare it to Pompeii, where visitor numbers have recently been capped at 20000 PER DAY, and you have to book an allocated time to visit.

At Djemila, you are free to wander around at your leisure, in and out of the ruins, even stand on mosaics that Roman feet in sandals once walked over 2000 years ago. It's a powerful glimpse into the past.
While some of the mosaics are still in situ, others have been relocated to the museum, and are extremely detailed, not to mention enormous - one can only imagine the grandeur of the villa they once graced the floor of.

Djemila is a must-see on any Algerian itinerary, and if you can sample some lunch with the villagers, even better :)



Crooked Compass

10/11/2024

This is Algiers.

We gazed in awe at Roman mosaics, wandered the labyrinth of streets in the casbah, met lots of welcoming locals including some brides, visited a palace of a sultan, walked many steps, and finished the day with a feast of traditional food and Algerian rosé.

09/11/2024

Breakfast Algerian style - freshly made local bread ... delicious! Great start to a day of exploring Algiers :)

16/10/2024

I want to introduce you to a website called Pack for a Purpose, and for those of you who like to contribute to local communities when travelling and say thank you, this is the website for you.

Their mission is to positively impact communities around the world by assisting travellers who want to take meaningful supplies to the destinations they visit.
The supply lists for destinations on the website are provided directly by the local community-based projects that receive and use the supplies; this enables travellers to make informed decisions and to take items that best meet the needs of those who will be using them.

Participation is easy!

1. Select your destination.
2. Find an accommodation or tour company and a project it supports (you don't have to be staying there or using them)
3. Choose the supplies you wish to take from the specific items requested.
4. Drop off the supplies at the accommodation or tour company.
5. The supplies will then be delivered to the community-based project.

It helps to meet the essential needs in over 50 countries, so hopefully your next destination is one of them :)

Help Pack for a Purpose make a difference around the world by using available space in your luggage to provide supplies to the communities you visit.

08/09/2024

** PSA - ITALY 2025 **

Starting on December 24, 2024, and continuing until January 6, 2026, Italy will be hosting the Jubilee, a significant religious and cultural event that only occurs once every 25 years.
This celebration is expected to draw an extraordinary number of visitors, particularly to Rome, making it an unforgettable time to visit.

However, due to the anticipated influx of travellers, it is crucial for anyone interested in experiencing Italy during this unique period to plan and book as early as possible.

Securing accommodations, flights, and tours well in advance will ensure you have the best options available and avoid any potential disappointments :)

21/08/2024

For something different, take your safari game to the water, with the Chobe Water Villas,, nestled in a special corner of Namibia where two mighty rivers meet.
These luxurious open plan villas jut out over the water, and you will have a perfect view of these wetlands that 80000 elephants call home, along with hippos and buffalo basking in the sun.

13/08/2024

When uninvited guests are more than welcome.
Imagine having these guys rock up at dinner every night - such an incredible experience ❤️

12/08/2024

All about the 'bergs

The magnitude of some of these has to be seen to be believed, along with the iridescent blues.

All photos taken in Antarctica, some from my voyage this year, and others from my voyage in 2020.

05/08/2024

Who's keen to join me snorkelling with orcas?

This is a Winter Whales of Norway expedition voyage with Waterproof Expeditions, taking you through the majestic fjords of northern Norway.

Snorkelling is of course not mandatory; whale watching from the ship and up close in the zodiacs is just as fascinating!

If these photos aren't enough to tempt you, then it's worth taking the time to watch this video, the whole experience looks INCREDIBLE!
https://youtu.be/J6W4Xdbb9kQ

Contact me today for more information :)