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While exploring these 2,000-year-old caves carved from a basalt mountain, I happened to spot this Indian woman walking through the site. The vision of the scarlet sari against the ancient, basalt carved walls reminded me of the continuity of life in this ancient country and the place of religion in the lives of the people of India. It is not unlikely that this scene could have occurred centuries ago instead of in the year 2008. The sites of India always inspire awe in me.

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INDIAN WOMAN AT ELLORA CAVES
by Linda Morrison, Ellensburg, WA

Linda's Dream Trip
The sacred places of Malta and Turkey

"Different places on the face of the earth have different vital effluence, different vibration, different polarity with different stars; call it what you like, but the spirit of place is a great reality." D.H. Lawrence.

These legendary places have the mysterious capacity to awaken and catalyze within visitors the qualities of compassion, wisdom, peace of mind and respect for the earth. My travel goal is to eventually travel to as many of these special, spiritual places as I can in my lifetime; to simply let the spirit of the place and my own presence come into relationship. I want to attempt to capture in photographs at least some of what makes these places special. These are ancient, historical sites upon which every civilization, every culture that has inhabited that land has built a spot to worship their gods. Most often, having recognized this spirit of place, they have razed the pre-existing culture's temple or church and built their own upon the very foundation of the preceding holy building.

My dream vacation is to travel to select destinations of sacred places in Malta and in Turkey. I would begin at the Neolithic Temple of Mnajdra and Gozo in Malta then go to Istanbul to explore Sancta Sophia and the Blue Mosque, among other historical and spiritual sites. Then taking the ferry to the north Aegean coast, visit Troy, Assos, Pergamum and Ephesus. Next travel to the ancient city of Konya to visit the tomb of Rumi and the home of the dervishes; then travel to Goerm to explore Cappadocia and the incredible site of Nemrut Dagi, ending with a stay in historic Sanliurfa with its history of the Bible's Abraham. Of course, I would want company in the person of my son.

Linda's Travel Tips

• When traveling, especially with a group, break out and do some exploring alone. Being alone creates the opportunity to really connect with local people. One person is approachable; two or more are much less approachable. It may be a bit scary but it might also be the greatest experience of the whole trip.

• When you pack that extra pair of shoes or hiking boots, take a pair that is almost worn out. Then when you find that incredible souvenir at the last stop, you can ditch the shoes and have room to pack the "must have" item.

• Utilize transportation that the locals use instead of always flying from point to point. An eight-hour train trip opens up a whole new world that becomes not just the way to move between destinations but an integral part of the travel experience itself.