Offering insight into the life and experiences of the world’s oldest culture, this account of Australia’s Aboriginal history spans the mythologies of the Dreamtime through the modern-day problems within the community. Culture and history enthusiasts will get answers to such questions as Where did the Aborigines come from and when? How did they survive in such a harsh environment? and What was the traditional role of Aboriginal women? This story emphasizes the resilience and adaptability of the Aboriginal people, especially throughout their relationship with the Europeans who eventually colonized the continent. Ms Flood has set herself the challenge of avoiding the political diktat of our times and trying to give an honest and thorough account of what aboriginal culture and life was like at the time of first contact with whites and following. my own interest is to look at a 50,000 year old culture - the oldest on earth - as the human roots of us all, and learn more about the basics of being human. it should come as no surprise to any sensible and honest person, that the picture is one of violence, mistreatment of all who are physically weaker, especially women. there is also a harsh lesson on the fruits of supernatural belief insisting on no change, no innovation, no learning, no progress. isolation and stasis bear terrible fruits.
Added by: Maria | Karma: 3098.81 | Non-Fiction » tourism | 7 October 2008
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Ireland is steeped in history, tradition and culture, making it one of the most popular vacation destinations worldwide. Its story is told in centuries-old castles (some of which now welcome overnight guests); stone circles strategically placed to shine in the winter solstice moon; and, of course, in its pubs, where local residents gladly share a pint and a tale. Its cities are a treat to explore, with winding streets packed with tiny antique stores. Trips along the coast take you to traditional fishing villages and past some of the world s best golf courses.
This book, written by an Ireland native, tells it all.
Added by: Maria | Karma: 3098.81 | Non-Fiction » tourism | 7 October 2008
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11 Great Walking Tours Through the Most Colorful Neighborhoods in Paris. Follow Frommer’s for an up-close and personal look at Paris. Discover the atmospheric and the opulent, the sacred and the profane, the ancient and the avant-garde–everything that makes Paris unique.
Let Frommer’s Take You To: * The birthplace of Paris, the Ile de la Citй, home to two of the world’s most incredible churches * The bohemian Latin Quarter, with vestiges of a Roman bath among cafй-lined streets * Sacrй-Coeur and the beautiful Montmartre, the village on a hill that inspired van Gogh, Renoir, Degas, and Toulouse-Lautrec * St.Germain and Montparnasse, where you can see the hangouts of Picasso, Sartre, and Man Ray
With easy-to-use directions and maps–and the best places to take a break along the way.
Added by: Maria | Karma: 3098.81 | Non-Fiction » tourism | 1 October 2008
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San Francisco is one of the most exciting, inviting, unique, and eclectic cities in the world. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Lombardy Street to the Embarcadero…from Little Italy to Chinatown to Russian Hill, there’s an invigorating mix of attractions and cultures. This friendly guide helps you zero in on your “must sees” and plan your personal itinerary. * Enjoy incredible upscale shopping or bargain-hunting in Chinatown, browse for books at City Lights, or hit Haight Street or Hayes Street for the latest trends * Choose from all kinds of entertainment options, ranging from a Giants game to grand opera to theater to blues to leather-clad, fire-dancing performance artists * Have a romantic dinner at Absinthe or Quince, sip a cappuccino in North Beach, enjoy authentic Italian pastas, or try the catch of the day * Take a day trip to Berkeley, an overnighter to the coast, or a getaway to Wine Country, including winery tours and a mud bath.