The Isle of Man Manx Heritage: Anne Martin 2013-11-21 | The Isle of Man sits in the middle of the Irish Sea midway between the coasts of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Travelling on the horse trams and vintage steam railway, exploring a 300 year old village and visiting the home of tail-less cats, reveals there is more to Manx heritage than sandy beaches and low taxes. For more information visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #25 in the Journeys through the British Isles category.
South Africa: On the trail of Vines and Wines Anne Martin 2015-06-30 | We visit Cape Town, South Africa, to unearth the world-class wines that are being created in the vineyards of the region’s fertile valleys. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #171 in the International category.
St. Kitts – Gibraltar of the West Indies Anne Martin 2015-06-30 | The fortifications of the Citadel of Brimstone Hill sprawl over 40 acres on the slopes of a mountain 800 feet above the sea. Known as the “Gibraltar of the West Indies” the Citadel in St. Kitts was a strategic outpost in the battles between the French and English for supremacy in the Caribbean. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #172 in the International category.
Australia: On the Wild Side Anne Martin 2015-06-23 | Australia boasts several United Nations World Heritage sites, more than 500 parks and 2700 conservation areas. In this roundup of the country’s wild life, we meet crocodiles, koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, wallaroos, wombats, emus and some of the over 280 bird species. We meet a buzzard with a rain, a bird that can’t fly, marsupials that carry their young in build-in baby carriages, and a mammal that lays an egg and then carries it around in a pouch until it hatches. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #170 in the International category.
Israel: The Land where Time began Anne Martin 2015-06-23 | We travel through 2000 years of history in Israel – the Land where Time began. Our journey starts in Caesarea, the port city built by Herod and continues through Haifa and the Baha’i Gardens to the archaeological excavations taking place in Acco. From there we spend time in a Kibbutz, visit Beit She’an in Lower Galilee and explore the back streets and markets of Jerusalem. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #169 in the International category.
Israel: In the Footsteps of Jesus Anne Martin 2015-06-23 | Was Jesus buried at the place of the Holy Sepulchre or the Garden Tomb? 2000 years after his death it is still a hotly debated topic amongst Christians who make the pilgrimage to Jerusalem to follow in his footsteps. We explore the Old City to mark the Stations of the Cross and to learn about the two serious contenders for his burial site. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #168 in the International category.
Dominican Republic: Amber – Gem or Jurassic link Anne Martin 2015-06-23 | Author Michael Crichton based his original Jurassic Park novel on the premise that DNA was obtained from Dinosaur blood in a fossilized mosquito. Given the advances in science it is not so improbable and this visit to the Amber Museum in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic showcases discoveries that give even more credence to the concept. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #163 in the International category.
Israel: The Baha’i World Centre Anne Martin 2015-06-23 | The Baha’i World Centre in Haifa, Israel, is the spiritual and administrative centre built primarily for the pilgrims who travel here from all around the world to visit the Shrine of the Bab. The architecture is a magnificent blend of East and West and the Hanging Gardens comprise 19 terraces that spread from the crest to the foot of Mt. Carmel and combine the latest in environmental and irrigation technology, vital in a country were water is scarce. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #167 in the International category.
Hotels with History: Germany – Hirschgasse, Heidelberg Anne Martin 2015-06-23 | In this, the first of ‘Hotels with History’, we feature the Hirschgasse located off the Philosopher’s Way in Heidelberg, Germany. It’s been an inn, a dance hall and a dueling location for students attending the University at Heidelberg. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #165 in the International category.
Dominican Republic: The posthumous travels of Christopher Columbus Anne Martin 2015-06-23 | Christopher Columbus may have been a great explorer in life, but he continued to travel long after his death. Initially buried in Spain his daughter-in-law took his remains and those of her husband, Diego Columbus, back to the Dominican Republic. In the years that followed recognition of Christopher’s exploits grew and his bones were moved to Cuba and then back to Spain. Or were they? Where is Columbus buried and can DNA solve the problem? For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #166 in the International category.
Dominican Republic: Santo Domingo –– Birth of equality Anne Martin 2015-06-12 | Founded in 1496, Santo Domingo is the main port and capital of the Caribbean island of the Dominican Republic. It is the oldest continuous European settlement in the Americas and it was here that Father Antonio de Montesinos, a Dominican Friar, fought for liberty, freedom and equality of the indigenous people following the Spanish conquest of what was then, the island of Hispaniola. Universal values and cultural equality is still prized by the peoples of the Dominican Republic and is reflected in their art and lifestyle. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #164 in the International category.
Israel: Jerusalem – City of Gold Anne Martin 2015-05-25 | There are many reasons to visit Jerusalem – religion, history, architecture, cuisine, just to name a few. But it’s the City’s antiquity – layer upon layer of civilization – built and destroyed and built again, that renders Jerusalem so challenging and so fascinating. Our exploration of the City reveals its history from a Canaanite village over 5,000 years ago, to an important centre of the Jewish world, the impact of King Herod, the destruction by the Romans, the conquest by Muslim soldiers and its position today as a spiritual centre for Jews, Christians and Muslims. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #163 in the International category.
Israel: The Tastes of Israel Anne Martin 2015-04-22 | Israeli is a mosaic of customs, traditions and people. With a population drawn from over one hundred countries on five continents, Israeli cuisine can be difficult to define. In this feature we set out to understand the culture of the country, travelling from Jerusalem to Tiberias and on to Akko visiting markets and kitchens and tasting spicy dishes that include smoked meats, St. Peter’s Fish, Kosher Thai and Chinese dishes, apple crepe flambé, falafel, Turkish coffee and fruit wines. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #160 in the International category.
Cuba: Memories of Havana & an Island Culture Anne Martin 2015-04-22 | With Cuba in the news we look back 35 years to our first experiences of filming the island post revolution when it was caught up in the web of superpowers. Our travel experience started in Havana with a tale of two cities – the modern produced by the Revolution and the Colonial the remains of a time when Cuba was part of the Spanish Empire. From our archives we feature visits to La Bodeguita del Medio and La Floridita – restaurants each with their own distinctive cuisine and drinks made famous by Ernest Hemingway. We spent one evening enjoying the lavish entertainment at the Tropicana and another at an authentic Afro-Cuban folklore night. Our travels include the small town of Trinidad – an architectural gem and home to the House of Music. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #161 in the International category
Cuba: National Treasure – Alicia Alonso Anne Martin 2015-04-22 | 35 years ago I was filming a travel program in Cuba when I had the opportunity to interview prima ballerina Alicia Alonso. In this short feature from our archives Ms Alonso talks about the attitude to ballet when she was a child and the challenges she faced in creating the National Ballet School of Cuba before and after the revolution. An incredible dancer, choreographer and inspiration to students of ballet she continued to dance even though she was experiencing diminishing eyesight. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #162 in the International category.
Barbados: Age of Discovery – Historical Influences Anne Martin 2015-04-10 | In the Age of Discovery, tobacco was king and indentured servants from Britain were amongst the first to toil the fields of Barbados but they soon fell victim to tropical diseases. When the bottom fell out of the tobacco market, sugar took over and a new source of labour was found – African slaves. From our archives: expert input of historian, Leroy Harewood, and Lt. Col. Stephen Cave, a descendant of a plantation family. In this feature we explore the interior of Barbados and its capital, Bridgetown, to discover the island’s early history. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #154 in the International category.
Barbados: Goods & Chattels Anne Martin 2015-04-10 | It’s antiquated language but can still be found in wills and division of property. In Barbados we learn the origin of the expression “all my goods and chattels” and while Chattel houses are still being built, over the years the structure has changed to adapt to the Caribbean weather and particularly, hurricanes. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #153 in the International category
Jamaica: Port Royal, Pirates & Witches Anne Martin 2015-04-09 | It’s the unknown Jamaica. More than beautiful beaches, the island has an intriguing history that includes Christopher Columbus, swashbuckling pirates, buccaneers and Horatio Nelson. We explore the “wicked city” of Port Royal, the architecture of Spanish Town, discover the origins of Kingston and travel across the island to learn about the White Witch of Rose Hall. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #159 in the International category.
Jamaica: In-Country Trek – A Farming Experience Anne Martin 2015-04-09 | Chukka Cove in Jamaica has been a major equestrian centre in the Caribbean. We take a horse-riding trek into Country and visit the grand house of Lillyfield where the ingenuity of neighbouring farmers has overcome many of nature’s challenges. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #158 in the International category.
Jamaica: Errol & Patrice Flynn a love story Anne Martin 2015-03-31 | The late Patrice Wymore Flynn was a great ambassador for Jamaica. She and her husband, Errol Flynn, spent much of their married life together on board their boat and at their base on Navy Island. An actress in her own right, Patrice recounts her somewhat harrowing first experience of arriving in Kingston and travelling across the Blue Mountains to meet Flynn in Port Antonio. In this feature, we see another side of the swashbuckling idol of the movies and the impact he had on their surroundings and in the creation of a popular tourism attraction. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #152 in the International category.
Australia: The Didgeridoo Anne Martin 2015-03-31 | It may look easy, but you try it! The Didgeridoo is an aboriginal wind instrument made from the hollowed out limbs of trees in northern Australia and requiring the musician to use a special circular breathing technique in order to produce and sustain a note. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #149 in the International category.
Barbados: Coral A matter of Life and Death Anne Martin 2015-03-31 | It could be said that the island of Barbados owes its existence to the extensive coral reefs that surround it and upon which it is built. But coral is an endangered species threatened by pollution, the actions of cruise ships, scuba divers, snorkelers and tourism. At the Bellairs Research Institute, a Canadian teaching lab founded by McGill University, marine biologists and research students are studying the reefs and determining what can be done to preserve the coral. This is an extended feature from our archives on “The Responsible Tourist”. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #155 in the International category.
England & France: Cross-Channel Religious Connections Anne Martin 2015-03-30 | During the dark ages the tribal peoples of Western Europe found a solution for their hatred and fear of one another in their acceptance of Christendom. Whatever wars they waged against each other, the doors of the Churches were open to every believer. In this feature we explore the religious institutions in Nord-Pas-de-Calais in France and Kent in England. Monks helped turn swamps into prime agricultural land, magnificent cathedrals were built, the miracles that occurred in Boulogne and Canterbury saw the start of the first tour operators, and Kings challenged the church for the wealth that found its way into religious coffers. This is part 4 of 4 in which we cross the English Channel to explore the Roman connection between Nord-Pas-de-Calais in France and Kent, in England. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #157 in the International category.
Greek Mythology: Creation of the Seasons Anne Martin 2015-03-30 | This feature was prompted by my visits to the archaeological sites in Northern Greece where I saw wonderful sculptures, mosaics and wall paintings depicting the ancient Gods and the important part that these deities played in the daily lives of the ancient Greeks. The story of Hade’s abduction of Persephone and the Creation of the Seasons was sparked by a little solitude during a visit one Autumn when the leaves were changing colours. The lovely Celtic music supporting this feature was created by Charles Guard from his Ellan Vannin collection on the Isle of Man. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #151 in the International category.
England: Romans in Kent – The Claudian Invasion Anne Martin 2015-03-30 | In 43 AD Emperor Claudius planned a major and successful invasion of Britain. In this feature we look at the lighthouses, forts and cities that developed to sustain Roman rule for the next 350 years. Our travels take us from Dover Castle and a Roman painted town-house, to the Saxon Shore Forts of Portus Lemanis, Richborough and Reculver on the Wantsum Channel that separated the Isle of Thanet from the mainland of Kent. This is part 3 of 4 in which we cross the English Channel to explore the Roman connection between Nord-Pas-de-Calais in France and Kent, in England. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #40 in the Journeys through the British Isles category.
England: Caesar’s Conquests – Invasion of Kent Anne Martin 2015-03-30 | In 55 BC Caesar and his Roman Legions sailed from Boulogne across the Strait of Dover on an exploratory mission preceding his conquest of Britain, but he hadn‘t bargained for the Celtii tribes amassed on top of the cliffs scaring the daylights out of his troops. In this feature we reveal how and where he finally got ashore and the results of his first British experience. This is part 2 of 4 in which we cross the English Channel to explore the Roman connection between Nord-Pas-de-Calais in France and Kent, in England. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #39 in the Journeys through the British Isles category.
France: Bavay & Boulogne – Roman ruins revealed Anne Martin 2015-03-30 | In the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region of France we visit two archaeological sites: Bavay, capital of the Nervii, and an important commercial centre from which Caesar marched forth on his conquest of Britain; and Boulogne, the harbor where the Roman Classis Britannica was stationed and where underground excavations revealed the foundations of the City’s Gallo-Roman walls. Painted walls, building foundations and artifacts from the sites reveal the significance of these two locations. This is part 1 of 4 in which we cross the English Channel to explore the Roman connection between Nord-Pas-de-Calais in France and Kent, in England. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #156 in the International category. Description
Georgian Bay – Canada’s Sixth Great Lake Anne Martin 2015-03-12 | Yachts, skiffs, canoes, house boats, short daily cruises – there are various ways to sail and explore the waters of Georgian Bay, Canada’s 6th Great Lake. What makes this Ontario lake so ideal are the many ports of call; the pink granite rocks, windswept pines and fantastic scenery made famous by the works of the Group of Seven; the lighthouses and history of the region; and the sense of personal discovery that greets you as you spot the remains of a shipwreck, the ruins of an old lumber mill or stop at a small town and find ice cream made from local berries. There are inlets and islands to explore and some lodges, like Killarney, offer further adventures and encourage sailors to enjoy their facilities en route. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #65 in the Railway Adventures across Canada category.
England: The Duchess & Chatsworth House Anne Martin 2015-03-10 | Chatsworth House is one of the great Stately Homes of England and some 30 years ago I had the pleasure and privilege of filming the estate and gardens as a guest of Debo, the Duchess of Devonshire. Debo was one of the famous Mitford Sisters and when she died last year I recalled her graciousness in allowing me access to her staff, the house and the incredible works of art that it contains. This abbreviated feature & interview is cut from a lengthier tv special on England that I produced in the late 1980s and reveals how hard she and her husband had to work to save the home from the crippling death duties of their ancestors. For more information visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode # 38 in the Journeys through the British Isles category.
Israel: Reflections on Archaeology Anne Martin 2015-03-06 | A look back at my visits to Acco, Beit She’an and Caesarea in Israel and the wealth of opportunities that exist for amateur archaeologists to explore as layer upon layer of civilization are peeled away. Acco, also known as Ptolemais and Acre during its tumultuous history, is two cities in one: the modern that goes about its business above ground, while the ancient is being skillfully revealed underground. Discoveries at Caesarea, the port city built by Herod the Great have unearthed a Roman temple, amphitheatre, hippodrome and aqueduct. While I was there history was rewritten with a discovery that gave credence to the writings of Josephus Flavius. Earthquakes at a strategic crossroads in the Jordan Valley were partially responsible for the frequent rebuilding of Beit She’an, once known as Scythopolis. Here archaeologists discover ruins built upon ruins and have the challenge of knowing what to keep and when to dig deeper. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #149 in the International category.
Europe: Portugal – Bones, Tiles & Castles Anne Martin 2015-03-06 | Explorations of the Alfarma district lead us on the trail of painted tiles and their historical revelations of Portuguese lifestyle – a tradition that continues to this day. With Lisbon as our base we visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Evora and Sintra, spend time in the Chapel of Bones, and discover the extraordinary architecture of Queluz Palace and the Castle of Pena. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #148 in the International category.
Caribbean: Grenada – Treasures of the Past Anne Martin 2015-03-06 | Stone axes, petroglyphs and other archaeological discoveries in Grenada support the belief of an Amerindian highway from South America through the Caribbean islands. At the former Pearls Airport site built on an early Carib settlement, we find ancient artifacts. Sir William Branch gives insight to the islands significance as a major producer of nutmeg oil and its role in medical history. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #147 in the International category. Description
Denmark: The Old Town, Aarhus Anne Martin 2015-03-06 | Aarhus on the east coast of Jutland in Denmark is home to Den Gamle By, an open air museum, known as The Old Town. Here 75 buildings from across the country have been painstakingly reconstructed in the town’s Botanical Gardens to show what life was like from the 16th to 19th centuries. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #146 in the International category.
Germany: Pie in the Sky Anne Martin 2015-02-20 | Hate airline meals? Perhaps there’s a good reason. Airlines have to prepare thousands of meals well ahead of flight time, concern themselves for taste, quality and food safety; and then serve the dishes out of a miniscule kitchen on board the aircraft. Launching a new menu took Lufthansa to greater heights when the airline decided to collaborate with Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute and investigate the science behind eating at 36,000 feet. The 2-year study is revealing. For more information visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #145 in the International category.
Florida, USA – A Retirement Home for Horses Anne Martin 2015-01-01 | Abused, crippled, elderly, lame, blind and sick horses find sanctuary at Mill Creek Farm in Alachua County, North Central Florida at the Retirement Home for Horses. This equine heaven was started by Peter and Mary Gregory in 1983 and the farmland now comprises 335 acres where the horses are free to roam and enjoy their final years in peace. Peter passed away in March 2014 but his legacy of love and dedication continues with his wife and their son Paul, who, along with volunteers now look after 130 horses, 5 dogs and 2 cats. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #133 in the International category
Caribbean – An introduction to the Dominican Republic Anne Martin 2014-12-30 | The impact of three cultures is revealed in this feature introducing the Caribbean island of the Dominican Republic. During our exploration of the island and its beautiful beaches we visit the capital city of Santa Domingo, and learn about the history that integrated the Spanish, Indian and African cultures. The island is popular with sun-seeking tourists for a variety of activities, including whale-watching, scuba diving and golf; and for the many all-inclusive resorts that have developed over the years. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #144 in the International category.
Europe & Canada – The Tulip Connection Anne Martin 2014-12-30 | We travel to Keukenhof Gardens in Holland, Tivoli Gardens in Denmark and Ottawa in Canada to discover the Tulip connection that takes place between these countries in the spring of each year. The Dutch have a special reason to celebrate the annual Tulip Festival in Ottawa and continue to send bulbs to the Canadian Capital city in appreciation of the city’s role in WW2. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #142 in the International category.
Caribbean — Antigua Anne Martin 2014-12-30 | This short introduction to the Caribbean and the Leeward islands of Antigua and Barbuda offers travel hints on the sailing regatta, the annual carnival, local sports, beaches and the coastline that attracted great sailors from history including Nelson. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #141 in the International category.
Ontario – Point Pelee Anne Martin 2014-12-30 | We explore Canada’s smallest national park during the annual migration of birds and butterflies. Point Pelee is a sand spit located in Ontario on the most southerly point of the country’s mainland. We visit the towns of Kingsville and Leamington to check out accommodation, restaurants, and visit the island winery that is an added attraction to the region. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #64 in the Railway Adventures across Canada category.
England: Whitstable Oysters – A Roman Legacy Anne Martin 2014-12-30 | When the Romans conquered Britain and established roman rule in Canterbury they also discovered Whitstable, a small fishing village on the Kent coast, and Oysters. The shellfish that became one of the most sought after delicacies in the kingdom. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #36 in the Journeys through the British Isles category.
Pittsburgh, USA – Dinosaur Heaven Anne Martin 2014-12-30 | Kids share the fascination of archaeologists at Bone Hunters Quarry in the Andrew Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is a Dinosaur Heaven for kids and adults interested in dynamic exhibits that showcase the variety of skeletons that have been unearthed. The Museum is also home to one of the top collections of minerals and gems in the United States. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #143 in the International category.
Mexico: How to experience Chichen Itza Anne Martin 2014-12-03 | The Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza in Mexico may be a popular day trip from Cancun but they are also a two-hour journey with the bulk of your tour spent under the noon-day sun. We visit the ruins and a nearby hacienda, an example of where you can stay if you would like to spend more time exploring Chichen Itza and enjoy the experience at cooler times of the day. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #139 in the International category.
Boulogne, France: Ocean Ecology at Nausicaa Anne Martin 2014-12-03 | We visit the ancient town of Boulogne In the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region of France. It is the country’s largest fishing port with a rich maritime heritage and an innovative aquarium. Although Nausicaa was founded in 1981 to raise awareness about our oceans, it continues to expand its knowledge and attractions. The aquarium features ocean life, educates visitors on the importance of marine ecology and the management of commercial fisheries, and offers wildlife adoption programs and interactive experiences for children. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #140 in the International category.
Jamaica: All-inclusive Montego Bay Anne Martin 2014-12-03 | Along with side trips and insight to the Caribbean island of Jamaica, we highlight Montego Bay with questions you should ask yourself when choosing an all-inclusive vacation. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #137 in the International category.
Mexico: Taste of Travel Anne Martin 2014-12-03 | Enchilada, quesadilla, taco – there’s a wide variety of Mexican specialties owing to the country’s multicultural heritage. Before travelling to the country, chef, Miguel Roldan, gives us an idea of what to expect and what to ask for --- flour or corn tortillas, chocolate mole, tamales, fish, and, of course, spicy foods all downed with the local popular beer. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #138 in the International category.
Grenada: The Caribbean Island of Spice Anne Martin 2014-12-01 | It is 20 years since I first filmed in Grenada and if you love the Island of Spice you might spot a few features that have been lost in the mists of time. Although hurricanes have taken their toll, there are still fine examples of the 17th century French and English architecture in the town of St. Georges which developed around the fort and is evidence of the struggle for power in the Caribbean. In this introduction to the island we visit Grand Etang Forest Reserve, Annandale Falls, spice plantations, the local market and explore the harbour, the town, the fort, the beaches, and, of course, sample the food. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #136 in the International category.
Greece: Mount Pelion – The Healing Mountain Anne Martin 2014-12-01 | At 2000 feet in Central Greece we visit the timeless village of Makrinitsa known locally as the ‘balcony of Mount Pelion’. Pelion is the Healing Mountain, a reputation gained for the hundreds of herbs that are found in the area along with the variety of chestnut, olive and walnut trees that cloak its steep slopes. We travel around the mountain and down to the pebbled beaches at its base. En route we meet a local photographer, learn about Pelion’s strong connections with Greek mythology, and discover the laid-back and traditional lifestyle for which the country is famous. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #135 in the International category.
Greece – Taste of Travel Anne Martin 2014-12-01 | In Greece eating is a social occasion where philosophies on life are married with political discussions over glasses of wine and plates of mezzettas (appetizers). The focus is on seasonal vegetables, cheeses, meats, fish, olives and a variety of dips. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #134 in the International category.
Australia: Tasmania – The Taste of Travel Anne Martin 2014-11-26 | We discover the birthplace of the Granny Smith apple on the island of Tasmania off the south coast of Australia. Our tasting excursion includes berry farms, dairies, fish farms, vineyards and, along with some intriguing aboriginal cuisine, we find equally intriguing stories including one where a convict used his cell mates to build one of the most successful breweries in the country. This taste of travel reveals fresh octopus, Striped Trumpeter, ground Macadamia nuts, jams, sauces, fine wines and ice creams to ruin the diet. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #132 in the International category.
Taiwan: The Search for Tranquility Anne Martin 2014-11-26 | Amidst the hustle and bustle of Taiwan’s busy and frenetic pace, we search for the tranquil side of the country. Our search takes us to the Lin Family Gardens just outside Taipei, the most complete surviving example of traditional Chinese garden architecture and then across the mountains to Hualien where we explore Taroko National Park famous for its marble gorge. For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #131 in the International category.
Taiwan: Feeding Ghosts in the Temples of Old Taipei Anne Martin 2014-11-26 | We explore the heart of Old Taipei to learn about the many deities that are worshipped in Taiwan. Whether you practice Confucianism, folk, animist, Buddhist, or the Taoist religion you can find a temple that not only serves as a place of worship, but as a community centre providing day care for children and recreational activities for seniors. We discover that people bring offerings of food and paper money to ask the Gods to help resolve problems. But what happens to those offerings? For more information: visit www.ontopoftheworld.net and check out episode #130 in the International category.
