Ola's World: editor of DiverseTraveller.com

Sleeping on the left is best at home and away

Sleeping on the left leaves you feeling more positve

Results from a recent study by Premier Inn revealed that there is a wrong side of the bed to sleep on. It seems, those of us, who have a tendency to move to the left side of the bed are much better off than their 'right' counterparts.

 This study peaked my interest, because I do sleep on the left; it doesn't matter whose bed I sleep in, and there have been many - due to travelling. I always end up on the left.

Premier Inn asked 3,000 adults about their sleeping preferences, and found not only are those of us who sleep on the left feel more positive (over 25% compared to 18%  of rightie sleepers) and cheerful, but we are also more capable of tackling heavy workloads and a stressful day ahead. Hence my superwoman tag. 

The upbeat morning mood of 'lefties' may also go as far as explaining why over half of those surveyed refuse to swap sides with their other half. In fact over 75% of Brits are so stuck in their sleeping routine that they would find it strange to sleep on the other side of the bed.

Additionally, a quarter of them claim it would certainly affect their mood the next day, with 23% of the nation convinced there is a wrong side of the bed. I can testify to that.

Claire Haigh, spokeswoman for Premier Inn who commissioned the research, commented: "The research clearly indicates a pattern between which side of the bed you sleep on and the mood you wake up in."

So what do you think, does it matters what side you sleep on, and do you sleep on the same side no matter where you sleep? Please provide any thoughts in the comments box below.

* Research carried out by One Poll for Premier Inn, 3,000 respondents were surveyed in December 2011

Where in the world was I?

They. Whoever they are, say imitation is best form of flattery so I am flattering the Mirror online by copying their great photo idea. TEST your travel knowledge with the Daily Mirror as as will be known from now on with these virtual walls ' test your travel knowledge with Diverse Traveller.'

Each week, I'll post a photo taken whilst on my travels. All you have to do is work out where I was when the photo was taken. You'll get a clue but no prize - just the warm inner glow of getting it right.

Post your answer in the comment box below and I'll give you the answer, next week, when I post a new photo. If you would like your photo to be used, in this fun quiz, get in touch.

The photo for this week:

Clue: In Rome, a city spoilt with architectural wonders, this building is able to stake a claim as being one of its most impressive sights.To point your nose upwards is to enjoy a view of the vast hemispeherical dome, that has stunned vistors for nearly two thousand years. Natural light enters through the oculus at the dome's centre and as the sun moves striking patterns of light dance across the walls. There's many a bar less than 50 yards from the entrance, handy in winter; as I can testify having visted this building and a neaby bar last November.

 

Please provide your answer in the comment box below, there is no prize, it's all a bit of fun.

If you also want to take part in the original version of this quiz, visit the Daily Mirror website: http://www.mirror.co.uk/advice/travel/where-is-mirrortravel/#ixzz1iZUdHRvM

Favourite travel apps - nominate yours!

Travellers are spoilt for choice in app stores

Last November, on my first trip to Italy, for a week, I nervously left my laptop at home, determined to rely on my iPhone for travel information and note-taking. So before leaving home, I searched the itunes stores for apps to suit my travel style, bite-sized chunks of information available quickly, available without connecting to the internet, and are available free of charge.

 

For my trip I relied on the following apps:

Travel Guides

1. Guide pal world - quick and basic guide to Milan, Rome and Florence

2. Itanslate - good-bye to carrying bulky phrasebooks.

Book and document reader:

Kindle - to access travel books, PDF articles and other travel documents.

Note taking

Evernote - great for writing notes, reading clips or whole travel articles saved earlier.

Anyone with a smartphone will know, that the lure of the app store is one that is hard to resisit, so along with the five mentioned above, I have  loads more that help me keep updated when I am away, conduct my business, and enjoy my travels. I have a number of others, including photography ones, and I know I am not alone.

According to website theverge.com "... between Christmas and New Year, and 1.2 billion apps were downloaded. That's about 60 percent higher than every week of December before Christmas, and marks the largest number of apps ever downloaded in a single week, passing a billion downloads for the first time."

Have you got a favourite app that you use as a traveller? If so share the details and why you think it should be the DiverseTraveller app of the week, in the comments box below.

Adventure Travel Show 2012 speakers confirmed

 

 The list of speakers has been confirmed for the Adventure Travel Show 2012, celebrating the spirit of adventure, this year’s show also includes talks from a panel of Daily Telegraph editors and writers, presenting their pick of top adventures for 2012. Each talk will be followed by a short Q&A.

Here are just a few of the speakers that will be there:

Saturday 28 January 2012

Time : 10:30 till 11:15 

Harry's Arctic Heroes - The North Pole Challenge. Edward Parker - Walking With The Wounded.

Featured in the BBC1 TV Series 'Harry's Arctic Heroes', Walking With The Wounded helped four wounded servicemen to trek 180 miles to the North Pole. The attempt aimed to raise £2m for armed forces charities. The expedition was founded after Edward Parker's nephew was severely injured in an IED blast on tour in Afghanistan. Together with friend Simon Daglish, Edward Parker began to secure support for the idea, first with the military and then potential sponsors. A chance meeting with Prince Harry secured his support and resulted in him joining the team for the first days on the ice. Walking With The Wounded received worldwide media attention and generated substantial funds for injured servicemen. It continues its work, and next year, the charity aims to put 5 wounded soldiers on the summit of Everest. Join Edward Parker and some of the team as they tell their story.

Time : 12:30 till 13:15  

 The Accidental Adventurer - Ben Fogle.

Ben Fogle is a presenter, writer and adventurer. His achievements include racing 160 miles across the Sahara desert in the notorious Marathon Des Sables. He has rowed the Atlantic Ocean in 49 days and crossed Antarctica in a foot race to the South Pole.He has presented numerous programmes including BBC’s Animal Park, Wild In Africa, Countryfile, Crufts, One Man and His Dog and Extreme Dreams.

He writes regularly for the Sunday Telegraph and the Independent and has written five bestselling books. Ben’s latest book, The Accidental Adventurer is out now. He is an ambassador for WWF, Medecins Sans Frontier and Tusk, a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the President of the Campaign for National Parks.

Sunday 29 January 2012

Time : 10:30 till 11:15  

Having goals and confronting fears.Annabelle Bond.

Annabelle reached the summit of mount Everest on May 15th 2004, making her the fourth British woman to ever stand on top of the world. Since climbing mount Everest, Annabelle went onto scale all seven summits, the highest peaks on each continent in just 360 days reaching the summit of Denali in Alaska on 10th May 2005, thus making her the fastest woman climber in the world and part of an elite group of less than 115 people to have ever achieved this physical and logistical feat.

Time : 13:30 till 14:15

 Wilderness Camera, by Frozen Planet Cameraman Doug Allan.

Join cameraman Doug Allan in his experiences of filming the BBC wildlife series “Frozen Planet”.  In a career spanning 25 years, BAFTA and Emmy award winning photographer Doug Allen has made over 50 filming trips, taking him from the depths of the Arctic to the upper reaches of Mount Everest.  Most recently known for his esteemed position as the cameraman for the BBC documentaries “Human Planet”, “Ocean Giants” and “Frozen Planet”, Doug has experienced, captured and shared his fascinating experiences and remarkable tales.  Awarded the Fuchs Medal in 1982 and then the Polar Medal in 1984, Doug is now set to join a select band of polar people as he prepares to collect a bar to his Polar Medal in January 2012, in recognition of his notable contribution to polar photography.

You still have time to try and win a pair of free tickets, click here to enter our prize draw.

Advantages of sitting in the last row on a plane

If I could have a special power, it would be the ability to travel at the speed of light. No more long car journeys, or flights that seem to go on forever, especially if you have a bad seat allocation.

Whenever I book a flight, being to cheap to pay for the privilege of securing my ideal seat, I pray at check-in that the computer will be kind to me and not give me a seat at the back.  

Seat anxiety - don't give me the back row

But what if, on a long haul flight, you get stuck in the final row? How do you cope, how do you find positivity, knowing you are stuck near the galley or god forbid the toilets, for six plus hours?

 

Words of wisdom

On October 27, 2011, Caroline Clarke of business magazine Black Enterprise, wrote a great article on '6 Good Things About the Worst Row on an Airplane.' Somehow Ms Clark has found a number of ways to maintain a positive outlook, when seated where every traveller dreads - the very last row. I enoyed her witty article so much I thought I would share her six observations and tips, for embracing the silver lining when in such a situation, with you:

"...in the very last row of coach on a classic 757 that didn’t have a single available seat. I was in row 44.  ... in an effort to help all of my fellow frequent fliers, here are the results of my efforts to identify the “perks” of a situation that at first seemed to lack any.

Great Service: In the last row, you’re so close to the galley, you can smell everything happening in there (which, since airlines have given up cooking, isn’t much). You’re the first to be served a beverage and the tiniest possible packaged snack ever created. Of course, if you’re a big spender, you can buy something heartier without having to ever worry that the red wine, beer or sandwich you want is going to run out before your row is reached.

Safety First: Not only are you close to the exit without having to bear the heavy psychological burden of sitting in the exit row (are you really equipped to rip that door from its hinges, toss it from the plane, and play hero in a crisis?), you are actually sitting smack under the plane’s emergency medical supplies, including oxygen and a defibrillator.

No Room…But a View: Sitting in the back of the plane, you have a clear view all the way to the cockpit, which means that you don’t have to crane your neck to see if there’s a line for the bathroom. You can sit back (well, not really back, since your seat doesn’t recline in the last row) and relax, not bothering to get up until that little “vacant” sign slides into place.

Congeniality Corner: Not only will you get to know the flight attendants stationed in the galley right beside you really well, you’ll get to overhear all of their conversations, which could easily be more entertaining than the in-flight movie you watched on a previous flight. Also, you’re guaranteed to make fast friends with your seat mates, who will be just as eager as you are to commiserate about your shared seating fiasco.

No-Kick Zone: For anyone who has ever endured a trip with a child kicking their seat from behind, this is a big one! For some, it might be reason enough to actually request the last row! No one is behind you. No little kickers, screamers, coughers, tappers, gas-passers or other junior travelers that only a mother could love.

Better Survival Odds: I read a statistic years ago that said you are more likely to survive a plane crash if you are seated in the rear of a plane than in the front. Of course, this is logical. As to whether it’s actually true, who knows. If you’re stuck in a last-row seat, it’s a good thing to console yourself with nonetheless. Those folks in first class, with their clean blankets and pillows, their hot meals and fresh-baked cookies, their leg-and-butt room and reclining seats, their spacious overhead bins, practically private bathroom, and drinks-on-demand… in a pinch, they’re more precariously perched than you are.

So, you see, there’s a lot to be glad about if you find yourself riding the back of the plane. Of course, this assumes you have a window or aisle seat. Back row, middle seat? The best you can hope for is that you’ll sleep through the entire ordeal."

You think?

Have to be honest, although she states her case very well, and nearly had me 'better survival odds,' my sunny disposition would not be able to fake it through the other five tips, I'm too neurotic a flyer. But now that I do know, I shall revisit her insane optimism, should God forbid,  if I ever find myself in such a situation.

Share your insights and experiences

So over to you, have you ever been stuck in the last row of economy / coach? What was your reaction? And if you have any coping strategies, please share.

Read the full article here: http://www.blackenterprise.com/2011/10/27/6-good-things-about-the-worst-row-on-an-airplane/2/

Planning and promoting travel writing workshops - the good, bad and ugly

I am mentally exhausted, and my fingers are fed up, they have been hammering my keyboard all day, and are registering their protests by pressing any key they so wish, so I apologise in advance if there are any typos in this.

Today has been busy, with little time to bathe or eat, I have been crouched over my laptop writing copy and promoting Diverse Traveller travel wring workshops on free event promotion websites, that cover Sheffield. I tell you, I am in awe of people, like my friend Veronica, who does this for a living, but on a much grander scale. How she did it before the internet is a mystery to me.

Learning fast

My fast introduction to workshop planning and promotion has been very stressful, I may be superwoman, but even my strong back is bending with the weight of this task. I am only working on two workshop, God help me when I have to do same for our four-week courses.

Anyway, back to the last few days, that have been good, bad and ugly.

The good - checking out unusual venues for our travel writing and photography workshops; I've visited a sports centre, a cinema, a Quaker meeting house and my favourite Sheffield Cathedral;and waiting to hear from Waterstones re our travel book club, it is looking promising. I'm hoping to run our four week courses in the Cathedral, but in the meantime (currently recruiting tutors), our first workshops will take place in Quaker Meeting House.

the bad - writing, writing and rewriting workshop copy, while my ability to spell the easiest words dwindle by the hour, then searching the webs for websites to post the said copy on;

and the very ugly - you should be glad you cannot see me now. The life of running a small, niche website is far from glamorous. Right now, I'm still in my pyjamas. having a very bad hair day, and surrounded by dirty coffee cups, orange peel and an empty box of Jaffa cakes - when did i eat 12? Plus when my hands get really tired, I frantically prance around my tiny sitting room to African music. Definaitely not pretty!

Kick up the back-side

It's amazing what dwindling finances can do to a life-long procrastator. A peek at my bank balance on Sunday night, spured me in to action. Today, I have two life travel writing workshops taking place in Sheffield;

1) February 25th - Taste of Travel Writing in Sheffield, this is my test event,

then just after International Woman's Day (IWD) I'll be running

2) a 1/2 day Introduction to Travel Writing workshop on March 10th, again in Sheffield. I'll be giving out one of these beautiful notebooks to each attendee at the Introduction to Travel Writing, 1/2 day workshop.  

 

You don't have to get on a plane to reach Sheffield

A reminder to those of you soft Southerners, that trains do run to this part of the country, and believe it or not you can get here in two hours and seven minutes, and if you use my favourite travel website, Megabus, you can get train tickets here that will not cost you the earth, or if you are one of those sensible people, you can book your ticket using other train operators, and you'll be able to get a cheap day return.

Plus, and it is a big plus, The Peak District is practically down the road from central Sheffield, and believe me , it is a sight to be hold in Spring. Be warned, I shall be my best to promote Sheffield, my new home town in upcoming posts.

OK! Enough waffle from me, time to get the oven chips out of the freezer, and get back to promoting my events.

As I sign-off, please help me out by checking out our travel writing courses, tell a friend, and stay in touch to learn about our future courses, including travel photography workshops and courses.

Natural traveller - bad hair days won't spoil my holiday

I love to travel; I'm not exaggerating when I say I live to travel. But when it comes to travel planning, i don't find much to love, in fact I find planning very stressful - the research, the decisions - where to go, when to go, who to go with, what to pack  and so on. But this stress is nothing compared to the hairy question, troubling many black women travellers  - "what do I do with my hair?"

Holiday stress: worrying about what to do with your hair

Constantly worrying about how to manage my natural hair, and keep it loking and feeling good, used to be a great frustration. As shallow and vain as it sounds, on many occasions, my hair has stopped me from enjoying myself, not for me cooling off in the swimming pool, messing around in the sea, and don't get me started about sand in my hair.

Hair today gone tomorrow

However, these days my hair is a great travel companion, always travelling light and very easy to get on. What changed, I hear you ask?  Simple, a visit to the barber in 2004; back then enough was enough; so while on holiday in Texas, USA, I walked in to a barber with shoulder-length and mile wide hair and bounced out with a crop, that would make a marine proud. Initial reactions were shock and horror, many telling me I would regret it, having cut off my 'crowning glory'. But I was pass caring, for the first time in years, I felt free and somewhat empowered; and seven years later I feel the same and my hair is still as short.

Cropped in Bangkok, Thailand (2004)

Hair tips and tricks

Word of warning, before you 'badly' follow in my footsteps, it would be wise to check your face shape, and check you don't have a lumpy head, doesn't lead to a good look. But if short hair is a step to far, there are other, less drastic ways, to control your natural tresses. And you don't have to have short, or even natural hair, to be able to leave behind your four-hour hairdressing routine, multitude of hair gadgets and now spend that time actually enjoying everythng your holiday has on offer. Years of travelling, home and abroad, have taught me  a thing or two about keeping my hair looking good with minimumal fuss. So, whether you're travelling for a few days or a few months, I hope my tips and experience will help you too.

1. Decide on a hair style: Choose a style that is easy to manage i.e. low maintenance. Styles like:

Crop it: The easiest style for travelling is to have your hair as short as possible, this is a true wash and go style.

Cornrows: Tiny or large, short or long these are great for a few weeks. 

Locs or Braids: Very versatile. Don't make them too long and heavy; you don't want to leave a trail of fallen braids as you sashay your way along the beach (caused by tension at the root of your hair that may pull your hair and braid out). This style is great for long trips in many countries.

Twists - free, flat, gel:  These popular two strand style can last two to four weeks. Free twists are particularity great for travelling as you can do it yourself. I used to twist my hair at night, wrap with a scarf, then untwist for a day of loose curls. Gel twists are great for very short hair, but don't leave more in for than a month or your hair may loc.

Two-strand twists look great and are so practical

Wigs, weaves or hair pieces: These are great for not only providing a quick hair fix, but also for changing your look. Thankfully you can now buy natural, afro hair pieces or wigs. Before you go try different styles, lengths and colours, find what suits you and flaunt it on holiday. Word of warning, make sure you secure your wig or piece - the wig of a friend flew off while we were enjoying a theme park ride.

2. Pack lots of hair accessories: This is my favourite tip. Once you have decided on the clothes, shoes, and bags you'll be taking, have fun selecting matching hair accessories, fortunately they don't take up much space.

Sleeping cap or scarf: I always travel with a silk scarf, satin is just as good, to either wrap around my pillow or to wrap my hair at night (a satin or silk sleeping cap or pillowcase does the same job). I've been told by many hairdressers that silk and satin are kinder on the hair because of their smooth fibres, unlike fabrics like cotton, wool, etc. that can snag hair fibres, and cause hair friction when we toss and turn.

Scarves: Travelling with scarves is one of my favourite travel tips, and my luggage always contains scarves or all colours and textures. They serve many purposes, to cover my head and shoulders when visiting a religious building, used as a sarong when on the beach, to keep me warm when at the mercy of intense air conditioning, or to simply brighten up an outfit.

Covering up a bad hair day in St Louis, USA 2009

Hats: Along with my scarves, I travel with lots of hats. Looking through my travel photos, you'll find that I'm wearing a hat in many of them. In the sun I tend to wear caps e.g. baseball caps are a great solution to a bad hair day, plus they protect my hair and eyes from the sun. Hats also help to cover up aeroplane hair, when the back of the hair goes flat due to the hours spent with our head against the headrest or on a pillow.

 

Hats off to The Great Wall of China (2007)

Scruchies, hair pins, slides and bands: All these come in different textures and colours. You are on holiday, so go wild and spice up your look and style. My tip - don't stock up on these from home, buy at local markets. They make great souvenirs, and when people ask you where you got them you can launch into tales about what you did on holiday.

Essential: Don't forget to take a small version of your favourite brush and / or comb

3. Leave the gadgets at home: As tempting as it may be, leave hair dryers, tongs and flat irons at home. Anyway, hotel rooms have hair dryers; OK it may not be as powerful as the one at home, but why take up valuable packing space with this bulky item. If you must travel with tongs / flat iron opt for the travel size versions, and remember to take a travel plug. If you want a cheap and heat-free way to vary your style, try two strand twists or a pipe curlers dry set .

4. Carry 100ml versions of your favourite hair moisturiser, shampoo and / or conditioner: Most airlines now restrict us to only 23Kg luggage, and 100ml of liquid in our hand luggage. This leaves the question - 'how do I take my many essential hair liquids, creams and solutions?' Ladies, this is the time to decide what an essential hair product is. For me? Only three hair products, a shampoo containing conditioner, a moisturiser and beeswax. Once you have decided on your essentials, pack the larger size in your suitcase or use travel-size (100ml) bottles and containers. Travel-size containers can go in your hand luggage, or take lots and distribute around your suitcase (wrap in plastic in case they spill) thus saving space. 

Take your favourite hair potions in travel-friendly containers

5. Finally Enjoy yourself: Follow my tips and you'll find yourself swimming, playing in the sand and trying new experiences without a 'hair' - care in the world; after all taking liberties with India Arie’s, “I am not my hair”, travelling is not (about) your hair. 

Don't let hair worries ruin your holiday

I am sure there are many more hair control travel tips out there; so it's your turn to share  and please send in pictures of you in hats, scarves or your favourite travel hairstyles.

Finding the beauty in winter

Hate is such a strong word, but it decribes pefectly my feelings towards winter, especially here in the UK.

This is the time of year, when like sensible animals I hibernate, stocking up on food, sealing my windows and doors, and making sure my take-out menus are up-to-date. Thank goodness for on-line banking and grocery shopping.

I hate the dark days; days so short of sunlight, that my mind is convinced it's 10pm when it's only 5pm; then there's the relentless cold rain, and don't get me started on the bitter ice-laden wind intent on biting off my nose.

So, every November, after another day of housr spent hugging a radiator to thaw mind and body and mind, I announce to family and friends, ignoring the eye-rolling and loud esapperated whispers of "Not again!" "As soon as I ... get that large contract / win the lottery / my megrea savings turn into a city bankers bonus, I am off; it'll be see you suckers."

But I am still here, hating the UK winter; As much as I hate the winters here, it's rare for me to travel anywhere where the winter could be colder. Yet somehow in 2010, I did. For the first time in my travels, I got caught in a Baltimore, USA, snow storm. Being far from home and crucially far from my many fashionable hot water bottles, my first instinct was to run back to the back to the warmth of hotel, but instead a funny thing happened. While trying to turn me into a snow woman, the thickening snow flurries gently dropped, covering the street and it's furniture with a soft, crunchy white blanket; I was awed by the beauty and purity of winter spread before me.

Now don't get me wrong, that was not my road to Damascus moment, all it did was to give me some insight into why those crazy people can't do without their skiing and other such winter holidays.

So, while I stiil hate Winter, I have learnt to appreciate that it's not all bad. My new found slightly positive feelings towards winter, are best ilustrated in this quote from the great Russian playwright Anton Chekov:

"Let us learn to appreciate there will be times when the trees will be bare, and  look forward to the time when we may pick the friut."

Snow covered Baltimore (2009)

Is there a season you hate, if so which one and why? Has anything or can anything make you change your mind?

Destination Maryland - America in miniature

If you haven’t heard about Maryland, you're not alone. But I bet you know more about this eastern US state that you think. The star-spangled banner, Alex Haley (author of Roots), Babe Ruth, swimmer Michael Phelps, Baltimore, or the breathtaking beauty of Chesapeake Bay, all have Maryland ties.

Introducing Maryland

Maryland, a historic, cultural and natural melting pot, remains undiscovered by many travellers. Bordering Delaware, Pennsylvania, Washington DC and Virgina, the sprawling state of Maryland was once described by National Geographic, "America in Miniature.

Annapolis - Alex Haley, author of Roots, memorial

Nature

Located  on the mid-Atlantic corridor, Maryland, benefits from moderate summer temperatures, fall views that rival New England, and  ski perfect snowy winter landscapes; this makes for great all-year travel, where you can indulge in every out-door activity you can think of, especially those that take place in or on water.

You can literally smell the salt water from and in most parts of the state. That's not an exagerration, as Maryland is very much about the sea shore, boasting nearly 4,000 miles of shoreline, which includes over 30 miles of Atlantic Coast. And Maryland is home to America’s largest estuary, Chesapeake Bay, and according to the residents America's best crabs. 

But if water is not your thing, travel up the coast and behold the rugged mountain peaks. For example, check out the Allegheny Mountains, it stretches ver 3,300 feet above sea level and at its highest point, Backbone Mountain, you can take pause awhile to appreciate the breathtaking views as Maryland lays out before you.

History and culture

Named after Henrietta Maria, wife of King Charles I, Maryland is steeped in English history. And its capital is Annapolis, is a dream for a history buff, as in a day you can spend your time  exploring and learning about its English links.

Georgian style house in Annapolis, Maryland USA 

However, as attractive as Annapolis is, it is to Baltimore I go for my  cultural fix.  Roaming the streets and neighbours of Baltimore, brings to mind the city's history as a major maritine and manufacturing centre. There is no denying its historic and strategic role as a major American port, bet you didn't know that many European immigranmts entered the USA through Baltimore, in fact the city was the second largest point of entry for immigrants to America from Europe.

However, as attractive as Annapolis is, it is to Baltimore I go for my  cultural fix. Roaming the streets and neighbours of Baltimore, brings to mind the city's history as a major maritine and manufacturing centre. There is no denying its historic and strategic role as a major American port, bet you didn't know that many European immigranmts entered the USA through Baltimore, in fact the city was the second largest point of entry for immigrants to America from Europe.

Modern day Baltimore City Skyline

Strange but true

Like many US states, Maryland has it fair share of quirky symbols. As a lover of cake, I was destinited to love Maryland as its official dessert is the  Smith Island Cake, made for many years by the ladies of Smith Island. Smith Island cake, a decadent layered cake is eaten all over America, and I can vouch that it is rich and delicious. Hunt it down when you visit.

Maryland - Original Smith Island Cake

Like other US state, Maryland has a number of nicknames, which come from history and  / or notable locals, it is reffered to as “Old Line State,” General Smallwood’s “Maryland Line” stood firm against British troops during the 1776 Battle of Long Island, ) and “Free State,” during the Prohibition a Baltimore Sun editor argued against prohibiting the sale of alcohol.

You would think as the birthplace of Babe Ruth, the state sport would be baseball. Well it is not, it's jousting. Strange I know! A visit to any big Maryland shopping mall, is not complete without taking part in a faux-medieval event run by Medieval Times. But be warned there are usually long queues, as this is a favourite for tour companies.

Time for a visit

I hope I have peaked your interest, and you will leave here and find out more. Here's a radical thought, instead of automatically booking trips to Florida, or New York, think about trying something new and visit instead, or as well as if you are on the East Coase, to Maryland. Experience its coastal life, parks and mountains, seafood, and diverse arts and culture.

Since my first visit to Maryland, in 1997, I have been back so many times and on each visit I still find something new to do and see. Beleive me, no matter your travel type or tastes, I am sure, like me all, all it will take is one visit, and you to be hooked on this miniature version of America.

For more information about visiting Maryland, travel along to the Visit Maryland website

Have you been to Maryland, or do you live there? If so, please share your travel experiences and tips. If there other US states you have been to that are of little known to travellers

Recruitment: part-time travel writing tutor (paid) #Sheffield

Diverse Traveller logo

At Diverse Traveller. we’re passionate about inspiring women to not only explore the world around them and beyond, but to share their experiences. With that in mind, we have set up Learn@DiverseTraveller travel writing and photography courses.

We want our attendees to experience courses and workshops that are delivered professionally, creatively and with enthusiasm; delivering practical content they can use for fun or for publications.

With that in mind we are recruiting experienced travel writing professionals, who have the ability to teach travel writing at all levels. So, if you are want to help us achieve our ambition and are able to join us in Sheffield, please read on

Job title: Part-time travel writing tutor

Company: Diverse Traveller (click here to visit the Diverse Traveller website)

Job Reference:TW1

Contact: Director Ola Fagbohun

Subject area: Travel writing (all levels)

Attendees: Adults (18+) women

Location:  Central Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Full or Part Time: Part-time evening and / or 1/2 day on a weekend

Temporary or Permanent: Initially temporary

Main responsibilites:

To plan and deliver programmes of adult learning for Diverse Traveller at the times and venues agreed.

To be responsible for preparing a scheme of work, lesson plans and lessons appropriate to the level of course attendees.

To monitor, assess and record the progress of the learners, individually or as a group and give advice to learners in relation to their learning.

Respond to feedback.

Carry out administration duties such as taking attendance

Person specification:

Desirable - Full (or working towards) PTTLS qualification in the teaching of adults, Certificate in Education/Teaching/instructing/leading groups of adults in an educational or other setting

Essential - Thorough knowledge of the subject offered with evidence of keeping up to date with developments in the field

Essential - Good communication skills, oral and written, for teaching and fulfilling administrative tasks

Essential -  Ability to respond to situations as they arise and flexibility to adapt to the changing context of adult and community learning

Essential -  Ability to show and use creativity and enthusiasm

Essential - Ready to share ideas in order to keep the course relevant, up-to-date and interactive for attendees

Salary: £14 - 20 per hour (subject to experience and qualifications)

Hours: Weekday 6-9pm and / weekend Sun 10 - 4pm (first course to start March 2012)

Job Closing Date: 19//02/2012

How to apply

There is NO application form, please email your e-mail, the information you provide in your letter of application and CV, so it must include all the items below to Diverse Traveller (no agencies):

1. Your full name including any ‘known as’ and previous names used.

2. Your contact details including address, contact telephone, email and / or website or blog.

3. The post you are applying for and where you saw it advertised.

4. List all your qualifications and / or membership of any professional bodies, include date and level obtained.

5. Your full work history, explaining any gaps. Include employers name, address, dates you were employed. Also include details of any published material.

6. Any relevant criminal record information (please see additional guidance notes), if Nil please indicate this clearly in your letter.

7. We require details of two professional referees in your letter of application. References will normally be taken up at the offer of appointment stage.

8. Finally you need to outline why you are the right person for this job – remember to demonstrate why you are suitable against each of the points described in the “person specification” section above.

Interviews: To take place 14 - 15 February 2012

E-mail to: Diverse Traveller (no agencies)

Or, if you have any queries, please contact us on 0207 060 2295 or if you would like to have an informal discussion with the recruiting manager call Ola Fagbohun on 07952231339

Please note that providing false information is an offence and could result in the application being rejected or summary dismissal if you are appointed to the post and possible referral to the police.

Equal Opportunities
No service user, employee or job applicant will be discriminated against, harassed or receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, disability, marital status, family commitments, sexual orientation, age, HIV status, religious or political beliefs, social class or trade union activity or irrelevant spent conviction.

Click here if you are interested / or know someone interested in joining us as a Travel photography tutor.