I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium and, after visiting a few underwhelming zoos in Asia, had some trepidation about the conditions I’d find. For all of Shanghai’s glitz and glamour, China is still a developing nation and animal conservation doesn’t always seem to be a high priority (Giant Pandas excepted). […]
Animals
Horseback Riding in the Mountains of Yunnan
I love horses for their grace and strength and their gentle, calming presence. When we arrived in Yunnan and saw horses everywhere, I longed to ride one. While I’ve only ridden a handful of times, at that moment I fantasized about galloping through open fields, the wind in my hair, breathing deeply of that fresh […]
Snapshot: Animals of Shangri-la
Pet ownership in China once seemed isolated to song birds, but today more and more people have dogs. In fashionable Shanghai and other eastern cities, it’s not uncommon to see a poodle wearing a sequined sweater and booties. But there are many municipal restrictions on canine companions, who aren’t supposed to be on streets during […]
Spending a Day with Elephants in Thailand
I have been blessed with many wonderful life experiences, but our day with the elephants at Patara Elephant Farm in the mountains near Chiang Mai is undoubtedly one of the best. Hubby and I are still rhapsodizing about it two weeks later! As an ardent animal lover, spending time with these magnificent creatures was a […]
Hershberger Farm and Animal Adventures
During our outing in Amish Country, we stopped at a farm to buy some fresh produce. Imagine my surprised delight when this farm turned out to be the Disneyland of Amish Country. There were buggy rides! There was a petting zoo where you could feed baby animals! There were giant Belgian Draft horses that you […]