Travelsmartplanet

Whakarewarewa, NZ, you can watch a Maori cultural performance. Afterwards, audience members can join the talented cast for a photo op.

On the North Island of NZ, In Rotorua, there are a few communities which re-create living historic village life of the Maori people. This cultural show highlights dancing, singing, and facial expressions.

After absorbing the historic past of the Maori people in the living village in Whakarewarewa, NZ, you can watch the next generation perform the traditional music and dance.

The Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site’s lock system was completed in 1895 and at the time was part of the world’s longest lock. It was the first to operate with electrical power electricity generated on site in a powerhouse. It was also the first to use an emergency swing bridge dam to protect the lock in case of emergency. Since 1998 the lock has been use for recreational vehicle use only – and is Free to go through.

You can go back in time with costumed waitresses serving a scrumptious High Tea. Enjoy the view facing the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site. Believe or not, traversing the canal locks on the Canadian side of the border is absolutely Free.

Toronto has its own version of New York City’s Flatiron building.

High tech telephones can be found in most of the rooms (even his bathroom) of Sir Henry Pellatt’s castle-like home, Casa Loma – and this was in 1913! 

Have fun looking for the trompe l’oeil Gian Lorenzo Bernini planned in the center of St Peter’s Square. There are 2 semi-circles surrounded by 4 rows of columns. You can see the rows from any place in the piazza except from 2 spots (look for the metal plates in the ground) where the illusion allows you to see only 1 row of columns and not the four.

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Three of the most recognized pieces of art in the world. The Venus de Milo (found on the Greek island of Milo) is over 200o yrs old and is still seen as the epitomy of classical female beauty. The Winged Victory of Samothrace is a mastery of carving – just notice the wind ruffling her 2200-year- old dress. And dear old Mona, our guide said she has that secret smile because she knows where Rodin hid The Thinker’s clothing! (See him at the Rodin Museum here in Paris)

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How delightful to walk into living history at the Tower of London. It’s so much more fun when you learn the stories of the people who “lived” or were imprisoned there. Did they lose their heads?