Travel during Covid-19: Why, where and how?
Throughout 2020 when the pandemic subjected us to travel deprivation, it also served up some necessary self-reflection. Much of it has to do with the fact that freedom to travel inevitably comes with responsibility.
Bridging the gap: Ottoman legacy in the Western Balkans
Held together by their geometry, the Ottoman stone bridges of the Western Balkans are marvels of pre-modern engineering. In one of Europe’s most earthquake-prone regions, they have stood solid for ages all the while looking slick.
Siege of Sarajevo: War in the museum
Every history museum has been confronted with the topic of war and violence. In Sarajevo where such history is so recent and where the warring factions still live side by side, exhibits of war and violence come with pertinent questions.
A mission in Malawi yields unexpected treasure
Whenever I travel, I keep my eyes open for antique or vintage items that best represent the culture and workmanship of any given country. My other favourite are collectibles that may have been manufactured elsewhere but tell a local story.
In Venice, an epidemic is an old (plague doctor’s) hat
To visitors of Venice and Venetians alike, the measures taken against the coronavirus outbreak should ring a bell or two. During the historic outbreaks of plague, mandatory quarantine, fumigation and social distancing were the norm.