Tidbits from Around the World
Delights of Zimbabwean Cooking
The Portuguese brought peanut butter to Zimbabwe in the 16th century. Today, it is a staple in Zimbabwean cooking with simple to make, mouth-watering recipes.
Here are favorites of Tongesai Mutematsaka of Cultural Vibes Travel and Tours who offers a variety of safaris and activities in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. One special one – dinner with his family where he cooks up a storm!
- Bota is a yummy porridge flavored with peanut butter, milk or jam, and is traditionally eaten for breakfast.
- Dovi is a peanut stew cooked in broth with crushed peanut sauce, garlic and onions, after which you can add meats such as chicken, beef, goat or lamb and vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, and potatoes.
- Muriwo Unedovi is made from green cabbage, spinach or pumpkin leaves prepared in a rich peanut butter sauce.
- Mupunga Unedovi is made with long grain rice, peanut butter, and salt. The rice is cooked in water until it soaks up the liquid. Peanut butter is then added along with some water. The combination is cooked until the rice and peanut butter are blended together and until the rice is slightly overcooked. Yummy!
Cheetah Conservation in Africa
As the pandemic raged in 2020, poachers did not rest.
Eight cheetah cubs were rescued by Somaliland governmental organizations with support from the Cheetah Conservation Fund, which now operates a sanctuary in Somaliland to intercept trafficking. Cheetah Conservation Fund trustee Alan Feldstein who designs bespoke tours of Africa, explained that the little cubs ranged from 2.5 weeks to 6 months old. With only 7,000 left in the wild, most in Africa, Feldstein says, “It is heartbreaking that these cubs are separated from mom cheetahs to be sold as pets. Most do not survive and those that do, live horrible lives. These magnificent animals accelerate at 60 miles per hour in as few as three seconds, faster than most sports cars, and sprint at 75 miles per hour; imagine keeping them captive. They must be allowed to roam free under the vast African skies.” Feldstein is proud of the work of the Cheetah Conservation Fund and asks everyone to help.
Bolivia’s Alasitas Festival
People set positive intentions with Ekeko, the smiling God of Plenty.
The Bolivians adorn figurines of smiling Ekeko with miniature items representing their desires. Decorate him with miniature houses, farm animals, banknotes, and even marriage licenses, if you’re looking to get married. What a wonderful way to set positive intentions! Learn more
Where can you see traditional American Yodeling and Clog Dancing?
At the Firelight Barn Dinner Theater in Las Vegas of course!
Experts agree that yodeling began in Switzerland by herders calling their livestock, or to communicate between villages. The multi-pitched “yelling” later became part of musical expression. In America, yodeling was practiced by cowboys looking to soothe a restless herd, and which similar to Switzerland, became a refrain for long ballads. A dying art, Firelight Barn in Las Vegas offers lively western-style performances, following in the footsteps of greats like Jimmie Rodgers. With live music, American yodeling, American clog dancing and mouth-watering barbecue, it makes for a fun time.
Colombia’s Quaint Colonial Towns
Colombia’s hidden gems may surprise you.
Colombia’s old colonial towns located in its cloud forests are a delight for wandering souls. They offer an authentic, off-the-beaten-path glimpse into the people, culture and lives of Colombians. Take a walking or hiking trip across palm tree-filled mountains, pick up lots of souvenirs, and enjoy local food.