WELCOME I’m excited to present to you the next issue of WANDERER! The colourful cover hails from Turkey, where two of our features are from this issue. The Spice Bazaar in Istanbul, and the Biblical Journey of St Paul will open your eyes to all of the beauty that Turkey holds for you. Follow Your Heart Tours exclusive feature will entice you on your next trip, catering to the adventurous traveller, the culinary & wine lovers, and the wandering photographers. Vancouver: Seeing Double holds double meaning to my heart; the city of my birth and where I last resided, as well as one of my dearest friends and extraordinary photographer, Reilly Lievers, gracing the pages with his double exposed images of the gorgeous city of Vancouver. Be sure to check out blog this coming month as we post more indepth articles about all the places you will see in this issue. Simply visit the blog at www.wandereronline.com Get comfy, grab a coffee or tea, and enjoy the pages filled with wanderlust from around our world! Wanderer-in-Chief,
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Retreating in La Union, Philippines Located just south of one of the main surf areas of the Philippines, La Union boasts tranquility and gorgeous beaches and sunsets.
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Follow Your Heart A closer look into the boutique Travel Tour company that is bringing more people closer to their wanderlust-filled dreams.
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Ancient Turkish Journey of St. Paul A historic 9-day journey visiting the seven churches of the Apostle Paul as written about in the Book of Revelation. History comes alive!
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Travel Secrets The latest and greatest travel products and gadgets to make your travel carefree.
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Orvieto: An Umbrian Countryside Commune A Medieval city in Terni, Orvieto boasts old Italian charm, a majestic cathedral and the slow food movement. 4 | Wanderer Magazine
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Wander With Me A Documentary through eclectic Vancouver: Double exposure compositions that tell more tales than words themselves could.
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The Jewish Ghetto of Venice Come with me as we take a wander in the Cannaregio islands of Venice.
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The Spice Bazaar in Istanbul A visit to a little shop named Gozde leads us to discover new spices, oils and a special secret. Wander-in-Chief Tracey Heppner Magazine Editor Jeanie Ow Contributing Photographers Reilly Lievers
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RECHARGING IN LA UNION | PHILIPPINES Just a morning’s drive from the country’s capital lies some of the islands most tranquil beaches to relax and enjoy, away from the bustling city life.
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SUNSET BAY RESORT Located just off a dirt road along the coast of the town of San Fernando, lies a little peace of heaven hidden away. With a coral reef only 100 yards from the shore, Sunset Beach Resort, owned by an Australian and his Filipina wife, has been hosting beach lovers since 2006. The eclectic decor, as well as the beach front restaurant and eternity pool, make for the perfect getaway from city life. La Union is along the coast where some of the Philippines’ northern surf spots are located just a few miles away. With the wide open ocean as the backdrop, La Union will satisfy any beach lover’s hankering. sunsetbayphilippines.com
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Since planning its first tour in 2009, Follow Your Heart Tours has assisted many fellow travel lovers on the tours of their lifetimes. With a passion for completely embracing culture, and experiencing the country or area to the fullest, Follow Your Heart Tours’ founder, Tracey Heppner, makes sure every person who joins these one-of-akind tours goes away not with just a stamp in their passport, but with a sense of really getting to know the people and culture of each country visited. Wanderer Magazine |11
Above: Paradise Islands - the Philippines has over 7,100 of them that are yours to discover. Our Mountain Treks & Paradise Islands tour will let you experience tropical splendor to the max. This year’s tours were designed for almost any type of traveller - the adventurous explorer who loves a little rugged mountain life as well as playing in the ocean; the food and wine lovers who enjoy the finer things in life while learning to cook authentic Umbrian & Tuscan dishes, truffle hunting in the countryside and wine tasting at vineyards in the rolling hills; and for photographers, who love to feast their eyes on out of the way villages and culture that will keep them clicking, literally, for days. PHILIPPINES Mountain Treks & Paradise Islands - April 6-14, 2014 This unique 9-day tour will begin by heading up to Banaue mountain province, where the world-famous 12 | Wanderer Magazine
UNESCO rice terraces will simply astound you. Visiting mountain villages and being amongst the locals will emerse you in the mountain life of the Philippines. We will then head to the shores of Pangasinan, to Hundred Islands National Park, where we will island hop and enjoy tropical beaches. Our tour will end with some history and culture in Manila as we go on a food tour of Chinatown, walk through the historical walled city of Intramuros and shop shop shop in Divisoria. Limited to 8 registrants. UMBRIA & TUSCANY ITALY Culinar & Wine Tour June 8-13, 2014 Nestled in the Italian countryside, our agriturismo, or luxury farmhou-
se B&B will be our home for the week, where we will have cooking lessons, wine tasting, go on a truffle hunt, tour a cheese factory and learn the Italian way of life. Limited to no more than 16 registrants. THE OLD VILLAGES OF TURKEY Photographers Tour October 25 - November 5, 2014 Photographers are notorious for simply wandering - getting shots of things that no one else thinks of, because they search out for the perfect shot. This tour will allow photographers just that opportunity as we visit the old villages of Turkey, where we will engage and fully emerse ourselves in the Turkish life. No doubt, you will come away inspired and will have enough photos that will keep your personal projects list full for months to come. Join us this year as we Follow Our Hearts to the Philippines, Italy & Turkey! www.followyourhearttours.com
Above: In the commune of Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. Below: In the coastal village of Assos, Turkey
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AN ANCIENT TURKISH JOURNEY WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHS TRACEY HEPPNER
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Last Autumn, a Follow Your Heart Tour group met in Istanbul to set off on a historal journey - a Biblical Journey of St Paul and the 7 churches of the book of Revelation. It was a tour that not only took us back in the footsteps of the Apostle, but also connected to the deepest parts of our spiritual soul as we read the passages of the letters to each church in each place we visited.
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The Church of Thyatira (Akhisar) The modern city of Akhisar is where the Church of Thyatira once was. Here we wandered the streets to get to the towncenter where the remains of the ancient city and church once buzzed. It was this church that tolerated much unholiness in its day. Paul wrote in Revelation 2:19,20: 19 ‘I know your deeds, and your love and faith and service and perseverance, and that your deeds of late are greater than at first. 20 ‘But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray so that they commit acts of immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.
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Church of Sardis When we approached the town of Sardis, it wasn’t until we were on the outskirts did we see the massive remains of what was the ancient city. This “dead church” as Paul called them, was obviously a thriving city that had “fallen asleep”. The huge temple was absolutely breathtaking. Paul said to them in Revelation 3: 1 “To the angel of the church in Sardis write: He who has the seven Spirits of God and the seven stars, says this: ‘I know your deeds, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. 2 ‘Wake up, and strengthen the things that remain, which were about to die; for I have not found your deeds completed in the sight of My God. Revelation 3:1,2
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The Church of Philadelphia (Alasehir) We almost missed the turnoff to Alasehir but finally arrived and were awestruck at the massive arches that still stood on the corner between little shops and homes of this small town. The ancient writings in the stones were still readable and placed in areas where you could actually touch them and imagine the work put into these. Paul had told this church they were a “faithful church”: “I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.” Revelation 3:8
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The Church of Laodecia
Located near the ever-famous Pamukkale, Laodecia’s remains are in an ongoing excavation. the long ancient road that leads to the temple has remains strewn along each side. At the temple site itself, you find yourself atop of a glass floor, where you see below, the remains of pillars and such that they have yet to fully uncover. This “complacent” church was neither cold nor hot, which made the salt rocks of Pamukkale all the more profound: the water supply in Hierapolis (Pamukkale) was hot, like spa water, while cold and pure drinking water was found in nearby Colassae. Revelation 3:16 puts it like this: “So, because you are lukewarm— neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” Wanderer Magazine |29
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Church of Ephesus The biggest of all ancient cities in Turkey at that time, Ephesus and its ruins could have taken at least a whole day to take in. It was spectacular! The Library of Celcus standing at the end of the main road into the city, next to the marketplace. The shops along the road where pharmacies, lawyers, and spas called home. And the 25,000 seat capacity ampitheatre. Truly amazing works of architecture to be seen throughout this ancient metropolis. In the book of Revelation, it was called the church that lost its first love even though they had endured in their faith. Paul writes in Rev 2:2-4: I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil...And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name’s sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
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The Church of Smyra (Izmir)
Of all the seven churches, Smyra in modern Izmir, is the only one in which we were not able to see any ruins, as they are very few. Current excavation projects are ongoing, and right smack in the middle of this booming city of over 4 million. So we found an old catholic church nearby and had our moment of ponderings over this church’s letter, the church of great suffering. Paul wrote to them in Revelation 2: ‘I know your tribulation and your poverty. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.’ Wanderer Magazine |39
Church of Pergamon (Bergama) We took a gondola to the top of the mountain of Pergamon, where the city sat on top. On the side of the mountain was a Romanstyle amptheatre that had stunning views. The temple’s columns were grand and the clear blue sky and sun shining on this crisp autumn day made for an amazing scene. This was the last church we visited - the compromising church of Pergamon. The apostle Paul wrote to them pleaing: “Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth.”
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Trip Advisor
This free app is an all-in-one app that covers everything from comparison shopping to booking hotels and more. It also features reviews by fellow Trip Advisor travellers about places to stay, to eat and to play, or not! With a location feature, it will be able to find your requested restaurant, hotel or entertainment near you. Available in the Apple Store and Google Play.
Flight Tracker Free
Another great free app. Not only does this smart app give you the departures and arrivals of flights worldwide, but it shows you a map of the airport of your choice, if you are uncertain as to where you are going on that short connection in real time. It also features weather at your destination - socks or shorts? Available in the Apple Store and Google Play.
Airbnb
This user-uploaded site, Airbnb, is where you should go first to find what you are looking for for all things accomodations. From an apartment in New York for a weekend to a villa in Tuscany for a month, this free app has nearly half a million listings that will keep you dreaming about your next dream vacation! Available in the Apple Store and Google Play.
TRAVEL SMARTS Almost everyone who travels nowadays has a smart phone of some type. Smart phones have made traveling even more enjoyable and the apps available are filled with so much great information on every aspect of journey. We have put together some of our favorite apps and top apps from around the globe that you may want to try out for your next trip!
Oanda Currency Converter
This easy-to-use app gives you the latest rates, by wifi or 3G, on demand. With different currencies to choose from, as well as a recently used list so you are not having to scroll through the entire list every time. Available for iPhone, Android and Blackberry.
Frommer’s Travel Tools
Providing 9 apps in 1, Frommer’s mobile app doesn’t focus on travel tips like most travel apps, but on their super handy travel tools. The converter in itself is amazing - not only does it convert currencies, but it does weights, lengths, volumes and more. As well, it has packing lists, a world time clock, a tip calculator and option pay-todownload city guides for your next destination. All these 9 tools in 1 for free...simply a must-have app for any traveller! Available in the Apple Store and Google Play. Wanderer Magazine |45
ORVIETO: UMBRIA’S COUNTRYSIDE COMMUNE WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHS TRACEY HEPPNER
Located in the province of Terni, Orvieto is not only a commune but a city that exudes old Italian countryside charm. As you wander through her cobblestone streets, you are met by locals on every corner; some dining, some keeping their shops, and some shopping for the days fresh fruits and veggies. Orvieto’s heartbeat beating through the everyday life. 48 | Wanderer Magazine
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The Duomo in Orvieto is one of the city’s most beautiful sights. In 129
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90, the Pope Nicholas IV laid the cornerstone of its present building.
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As you discover the many streets of this medieval commune, you will fall more and more in love with Orvieto. Each corner and each building are filled with so much character and history. It is as though time has stood still. Bars and restaurants that lure you in with their traditional dishes of the region, and of course, coffee. Did you know that a cappuccino is only ordered in the mornings? It is a sure sign that you are a tourist if you order after lunch.
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So be sure to make a mental note of that, so you can “blend in” with the locals. Orvieto boasts being a member of of the Slow food movement, Cittaslow. Cittaslow was born in 1999 with its goal to improve the quality of life in the small towns by slowing down its overall pace. So enjoy a meal with a glass of one of Orvieto’s prized white wines in the piazza, or square, in front of the Duomo. It is definitely a great place to people-watch while eating truffle pasta, one of the city’s specialty dishes. If you like a more quiet pace, step off the main streets and you will find small eateries that will satisfy you just the same. Make Orvieto a stop on your next visit to Umbria, Italy.
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VANCOUVER: DOUBLE VISION
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PHOTOGRAPHS REILLY LIEVERS
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About REILLY LIEVERS I take photos of stuff then I put them here! Not much more to say. Like most people I am a transplant to Vancouver from a much colder place for over three years now, and I don’t mind the rain! Oh Ya & I like Pirates!!! Oh and cheese!!! I like Cheese! Ohhhh & Scooters I have one!! Oh ya I am kinda a geek! Oh and I like to 4×4 with my X-Terra!!! Oh OH OH I am in a band and I play Guitar!! Q. So what’s the deal? Why are you a jerk? And why do you have a camera? A. The name Jerk with A Camera is a play on a band called Jerk with a Bomb. See when I opened my first TV torrents account my nick was jerkwithabomb cause I was thinking about The Pixies show at the Commodore a while back when I was registering my first TV Torrents account. The tie-in you ask? Well a band called Black Mountain opened for the pixies on that particular night, and Black Mountain (as near as I can remember from the description that was given to me by a guy that was standing next to D & I) is Jerk with a bomb with a different name. Ok but why a camera, why did you swap the Bomb? Well this brings us back to TV torrents, due to poor personal bandwidth management and the release of all the original episodes of Star Trek, as well as a few other seasons of TV that I prob still haven’t watched, I ended up about 145 gig in the hole (TV torrents is a Ratio site for every gig you download you need to upload some). For those not in the know this is well, almost unrecoverable. So I scrapped that moniker and made a new account under Jerk With A Camera and well it sorta stuck. That’s all! If you are confused we could flow chart it. Ready? TV Torrents -> Pixies -> Black Mountain -> Jerk with a Bomb -> TV Torrents -> William Shatner -> Tv debt -> name change ->brilliance
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WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHS TRACEY HEPPNER
JEWISH GHETTO OF VENICE
Dating back to the 1200s, the Jewish community of Venice has seen a long history. Today, with over 500 habitants and 7 synagogues plus numerous schools, businesses and museums, the spirit of the Ghetto is alive and continues on today. A definite must-visit, this extraordinary place is one to soak and learn about the Jewish customs and ways of life. Wanderer Magazine |63
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ISTANBUL’S SPICE BAZAAR WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHS TRACEY HEPPNER
Istanbul is home to the old Spice Bazaar, officially since 1664. The “Mısır Çarşısı” (Egyptian Bazaar) is one of the largest bazaars in all of the city. Located in the Fatih District, it is the second largest covered bazaar, with the Grand Bazaar being the first. It covers over 384 blocks and can be entered by 6 gates. This old bazaar was the center for all spice trade in Istanbul, but in recent years past, more and more other types of shops are replacing the spice shops. Of these authentic spice shops is Gözde. Located in stall No. 23, this particular shop has not only the best spices you can find, but gourmet Turkish Delight that you simply 66 | Wanderer Magazine
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cannot get enough of! They offer shipping service to anywhere in the world, so you can load up on as much spice and delight as you want and not have to worry about taking up any space in your luggage! The massive selective of spices, nuts, and essential oils is absolutely outstanding. Gรถzde also takes pride in their service, offering tastes so you will know EXACTLY what you will be bringing home. The upstairs of Gรถzde is filled with exquisite Turkish pottery, with a glass floor looking down to the spice shop below. It is in this area that parts of the movie SKYFALL, 007 was filmed. So be sure to ask to go upstairs to check it out when you visit Gรถzde. Some other types of shops you will find here are full of dried fruits, sweets & candies, turkish delight, caviar, apple tea, pashminas, ceramics, leather or kilim bags, textiles, backgammon and chess sets and more. The Spice Bazaar is a must-visit when you are in Istanbul. It is open from 8:00am - 7:30pm and is closed all religious holidays. Be sure to stop by Gรถzde...you will not be sorry.
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IN THE HEART OF A CITY
One of my most favourite things to do when I travel is shop for treasures that I will bring home for my loved ones. And the best place to do that, hands down, is the city or village market. It is there that you can find native handicrafts and things sold in that region. I remember in the Grand Bazaar, it was lamps that I brought home once for our master bedroom. At the Rialto Market in Venice, it was tshirts for the kids. And anytime I am in Baguio, Philippines, it’s woven crafts and strawberries! The Philippines summer capital, Baguio, and her amazing city market will be in the pages of next issue’s WANDERER. I can hardly wait to share her treasures with you. xoxo
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COMING IN OUR NEXT ISSUE
ASSOS, TURKEY THE ROCKIES OF CANADA BAGUIO, PHILIPPINES ROME, ITALY
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travel, culture & the world around us
Would you like to contribute through writing or photographs for an article? Or how about sending us your postcards for our WITH LOVE FROM feature? You can also be a guest writer for our WANDER WITH ME column. Simply email us at: wanderermag@gmail.com We would love for you to wander with us.
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