Baedeker

We Have Always Been At War With Eurasia

2007-06-02T05:37:00.000-08:00

In the sim of Suffugium, Squidsoft Collective has depicted a grim future. A future that is "secure under the eye of Suffugium technology." Posters encourage citizens to report suspicious activity, for the well being of the community. Everyone is a potential threat to peace.

Obedience to law is liberty.

Police Drones monitor the streets, scanning visitors to weed out the anarchists. Subcitizens are strongly encouraged to register upon arrival.

The kiosk also provides information about the rules and activities of the sim.

The scenery is a mix of urban design and science fiction. I was encouraged by a refugee not to buy anything from the souvenir stand - it's how they get to your mind.

Perpetual sunset drapes the city in shadow.

The only place I found to escape the prying eyes was the elaborate sewer system. Enter the maze-like passages through any manhole.

The sewer network connects the entire city.

Role playing is encouraged but not mandatory for visitors. A freedom fighter requested that I let the wider world know about the resistance - there is a shortage of recruits because of all the Raids.

Ponder the future.

Suffugium (102, 116, 34)

Guest Writer: Ignatius Onomatopoeia

2007-05-31T10:25:00.000-08:00

A Grand Palais. . .And Lots of Artwork
by Ignatius Onomatopoeia

In a sim named after legendary bluesman Howlin’ Wolf, I found a different type of artwork at the Grand Palais Musee de Beaux Art. Though open for just a few weeks and still in the final stages of construction, both the Parisian building and fine-arts collection are worth a visit.

During my first trip there, I met Jacon Cortes and ROTFLCAKE Box of the Grand Palais. Box, whose avatar is a cyberpunk swordfighter, is both coder and rapscallion. Cortes, dressed like either a Mongol warrior or early Ottoman sultan (either way, a very lush look) explained that the art on the walls is for sale. He created the magnificent chandeliers; I cannot imagine how many crystalline prims went into each one. . .rug vendors, guest exhibits, and a tour service add more features to the museum.

The paintings I checked were priced at 100 Lindens or less, and they are rendered nicely enough to purchase a Frida Kahlo as a gift for the ever photogenic Kyo Runo, who served as my model during a second visit. I still have to decide what to get for myself.

Kyo and I were greatly impressed by the ground floor, and the designers are adding artwork quickly to the upper floors. The paintings are displayed well and grouped by artist or collection (Louvre, for instance). It’s a cosmopolitan touch to have the floor names by the teleporters in French.

The setting of the Palais is delightful enough to make one want to dress for the occasion. Thus I changed into a tux and we did our “La Dolce Vita” dance in tandem in the fountain outside the gallery.

Then we flew up the roof to look at the hot-air balloon. Like the Venetian gondola tied up outside, when finished it will provide a guided tour of the sim.

To the owners of the Palais: Bon chance, mes amis!

Grand Palais Musee de Beaux Art, Howlin Wolf (190, 114, 21)

Ida's Note:
More snapshots from Ignatius Onomatopoeia's adventure can be found here.

Time Lord Technology

2007-05-19T07:37:00.000-08:00

In my explorations, I haven't come across much in the way of science fiction builds that are open to the public. The Star Wars sims in particular are spectacular and immersive, but I am reluctant to recommend them as "sites of interest" because they are venues for role-playing. Nothing ruins a good firefight like a contingent of OOC tourists wandering about taking snapshots of the scenery.

Luckily, I happened to run across Marcus Prospero's TARDIS.

The missing "police box" sign is inside.

Naturally, since it is made with Time Lord Technology, the TARDIS is bigger on the inside.

I've always wondered what was at the bottom of these things...

With three levels and furnishings that are both lovely and interesting, there is plenty to look at and click.

Time Lords do lots of research.

Like all good Time Machines, the console has plenty of levers and knobs.

Considering that I have no Advanced Knowledge of the inner workings and the physics of the universe, my inability to make the thing go no matter what combination of levers and wheels I used is only to be expected.

Several of the control panels will teleport you to other locations! Don't worry, the Tardis follows you so you won't be lost forever.

Marcus Prospero's TARDIS, Lippert (153, 108, 171)

DIVE! DIVE!

2007-05-12T04:04:00.000-08:00

What appears at first to be a small, empty, Protected Land parcel is actually an underwater garden.

The land, coral reefs, rocks and plants are owned by the Governor, but Eric Linden is responsible for the creation of the objects. It is a tranquil spot.

The Cave Rua Water Gardens are another wonderful place to practice your scuba skills. More extensive than the Linden build, the Water Gardens are also a showcase for jemma Flora's underwater landscaping products. The merchandising technique is subtle, intentionally leaving the area lovely place to explore.

The cave system that is open for exploration is just as beautiful as the underwater portion of the build. There is also a tour hud available if you aren't the "stumble around looking for cool things" type.

While you don't need scuba gear to breath underwater (part of the Magic of SL), the reasonably priced sets at Hinkley Engineering are a fun enhancement to exploration. Especially with the underwater breathing and splashing sound effects.

Underwater Reef, Vari (149, 51, 21)
Cave Rua Welcome Area, Rua (87, 137, 29)
Scuba Gear, Hinkley Engineering, Myrtle (4, 23, 47)

IHOP

2007-05-07T10:59:00.000-08:00

It's the last thing I expected to see in Second Life.

An International House of Pancakes.

I'm not kidding.

Tony Tigereye is responsible for this singular build.

IHOP, Meola (187, 101, 28)

Forget it, Jake.

2007-05-06T05:02:00.000-08:00

While the new sim of Downtown plays host to a variety of shops that cater to a variety of tastes, the whole sim is a brilliant and detailed build (almost overwhelmingly so) with layers of depth and interest. What really caught my eye was Chinatown.

It's a pocket of brightness in the dark and drab city. There are a few retail shops along the street, as well as a seedy, deserted hotel that also appears to be a crime scene.

And, of course, takeout!

You can pick up the metro at the Chinatown station.

If you fall off the platform (which I completely encourage), take time to thoroughly explore the tunnels, off-shoots and doors that lead to strange places. It's dark and complex down there - you may want to pick up a Top Hat With Light and pack a lunch before setting off. The trains actually run (I didn't know this until I had an Unfortunate Accident), so keep an eye out and don't touch the rail.

Telehub, Downtown (124, 92, 101)
Chinatown, Downtown (120, 45, 101)
Chinatown Metro Station, Downtown (49, 40, 101)
I.J. Ginsburg Hat w/Light, Steelhead (56, 87, 28)

Downtown has a forced landing spot, so follow the red arrows to find the locations above. The complexity of the sim does make it difficult to find specific places. I did not notice a directory or a map. The upside is, as long as you aren't in a hurry, there is plenty to see and enjoy.

Casey Jones

2007-04-27T13:32:00.000-08:00

On the Isle of Moonlight, not only is there a Yard Sale, retail shopping, bumper cars, boats and other amusements, but there is also a train!

There are engineer hats in the vendor to the left.

The round-sim trip takes about 15 minutes with the train making whistle-stops at commercial points of interest and passing several scenic venues. Click the engine to start and stop.

Because it's a steam engine!

Please follow tradition and scream when you go through the tunnel.

The train winds it's way through the landscape and up a hill to pass the mysterious (and off-limits) Moonlight Castle. I also noticed a good deal of elevated track. When I say "elevated" I mean meters and meters and meters up in the air. I think a switch has to be thrown by the owner to take this dangerous and exciting high road.

The castle dominates the landscape.

As a bonus feature - there is a Geocache is in the area! Visit the official SL Geocaching website to find out more.

Isle of Moonlight (186, 117, 21)
Get your own train at Kitto's Toys, Webworm (33, 34, 92)

Guest Writer: Joon Kim

2007-04-27T12:30:00.000-08:00

Endless Summer!
by Joon Kim

Is the weather getting hot? Do you want to get rid of stress and not worry about final exams? Many of us probably came back from Spring Break not wanting to do any work.

Want to keep that Spring Break spirit alive until summer? To enjoy views of the beach, nice weather, and fun surfing or swimming right now, head for Siggy’s Waterworks Island. This place is for everyone to visit and enjoy: it's not a nude beach.

On arrival, it's important to wear proper gear to have fun in the water. Swimsuits and beach-toys are for sale at the sim. Then take my advice: when you are ready to jump into the water, just hit the closest pool and cool down your virtual body. Swim around and enjoy the environment. Get on the diving board and try different styles of dives into the pool, then hang out with friends.

After spending some time poolside, I rode the water slides to plunge into the ocean. When that thrill got old, I purchased a surf board and enjoyed the waves. Then, when I was done playing in the water, I headed to the bar for free rum (and drank responsibly). If that was not enough, I also relaxed on the beach tanning and got in a hammock to relax while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

I finished my day at Waterworks with a jump in the hot tub to relax my muscles from all this hard work.

Siggy's WaterWorks Island, WaterWorks (240,243,21)

**Ida's Note**
Joon Kim is an RL student of Ignatius Onomatopoeia. As part of their course work this semester, Iggy's class took a "field trip" to Second Life (which, quite frankly, tickles me to death). Thanks for the article, Joon, Siggy's WaterWorks is one of my favorite places!

silent sparrow

2007-04-22T04:22:00.000-08:00

Two of my favorite stores, silent sparrow and factotum dicassel, have moved to their own sim. Not only does the new local offer a great Neovictorian shopping experience, but Hyasynth Tiramisu and Jessica Ornitz have a developed the entire sim in classic dark gothic fashion.

The layout is one of a sprawling estate (or smaller town - take your pick). The impressive main building, reminiscent of an institution, houses the main shops and is surrounded by elegant smaller buildings, paths and woods.

The smaller buildings contain (among other things) art galleries and living environments.

Naturally, it is always night. While this adds to "Victorian Mystery Novel" ambiance and many areas take advantage of local lighting effects, it is not the greatest light for pictures. I offer these few to pique your interest.

The cemetery is just outside.

The green house off the main building.

There is a secret in Jessica Ornitz's RL gallery.

The hidden trap door leads to the hydroelectric facility that powers the sim. There must also be a back up power supply as the water wheel was not turning at the time of my visit, yet the electric lights worked perfectly.

There are many little nooks and crannies for visitors to discover: paths meander, ponds and streams hide secrets, wildlife abounds.

silent sparrow (60, 236, 32)
chapel, silent sparrow (144 185 32)
Jessica's Gallery, silent sparrow (152, 202, 32)

Guest Writer: Ignatius Onomatopoeia

2007-04-21T16:30:00.000-08:00

The Mysterious Ape of Mauve
by Ignatius Onomatopoeia

A few meters (as the avatar flies) from the Dominus Motor Company, home of the impressive Shadow muscle-car, I found a mystery of SL: King Kong (the 1930s version).

There he was, cradling Fay Wray in his paw and as large as Willis O'Brien intended him to be. The great ape stands in "Crimson's Dig," a piece of land that, to this relative newcomer to SL, reminds me of an Englishman's mad folly. There is a fire-breathing dragon, Easter-Island monoliths, waterfalls and fountains.

Well, say no more. Time to start changing avatars and having some fun.
 First I took off my skin and did my best to impersonate the great stone heads.

Next I did a hirsute "La Dolce Vita" pose in the fountain behind Kong, but to be honest I don't think Anita Ekberg has a thing to worry about.

Getting one's avatar to stand on Kong's head invites comic disaster. It's easier to jump into the water or sit on the dragon's head.

What on earth is this abandoned theme park about? I can tell the curious reader this: one day Kong's eyes are open and the next, closed. Attempts to edit him or wear him like a skin have failed me.

So have my attempts to seize control of Kong and run amok in SL, or even free Fay from his grip. So if the King is not some huge robot, who IS opening and closing his eyes? And why are there other slight changes between visits?

Crimson Sunchaser, a SL Charter member, is still playing with these digs, I think. One note: the Digs crash a bit. It's a complex piece of real-estate.

Dominus Motor Company, Chartreuse (68, 26, 30)
Crimson's Dig, Mauve (47, 169, 31)
Read More of Ignatius Onomatopoeia's adventures ...In A Strange Land.

**Ida's Note**
Great find, Ignatius! To the right of King Kong is a series of waterfalls built by an individual named CrazyMonkey Fever. Coincidence? I think not.

All These Worlds Are Yours

2007-04-14T08:12:00.000-08:00

Except Europa.

Back in the day (2004), the first auctioned land in SL became available as 20 empty sims. One of the sims was called Europa. Lordfly Digeridoo spent the better part of an hour sliding a monolith from a build-enabled area to the empty sim of Io (Really. Read his full story here). When Io sold, Lordfly purchased a small plot in Europa and faithfully recreated the 8-prim landmark.

dum dumm dummm DUM DUM

While you are in Europa, pay a visit to another interesting location, Slice of Atlanta.

DoteDote Edison will make a souvenir-size recreation of your place in SL!

I was lucky enough to run into DoteDote Edison while I was admiring his Nano Chair.

A miniscule three-prim chair.

He confirmed that he had lived there since his rez day. Now an heirloom, a portion of Slice of Atlanta is his First Land plot. DoteDote kindly directed me to the SL Historical Museum in Phobos.

Open Air Museum - lucky it doesn't rain much, might be bad for the artifacts.

I've mentioned the museum before in one of my early posts about Second Life History, and I still recommend it as a "must visit" to those of you who have never been. Not only are there pictures and models the Olden Days, but you can pick up a Primitar avatar and mascarade as our early ancestors.

If you don't know what this is, you really need to get to the History Museum. Or watch this informative video.

The Monolith of Europa, Europa (210, 152, 88)
Slice of Atlanta, Europa (29, 185, 79)
SL Historical Museum, Phobos (220, 167, 33)

7,000 Oaks

2007-04-06T08:42:00.000-08:00

The Real Life 7,000 Oaks project was undertaken by German Artist Joseph Beuys in 1982. His goal was to plant 7,000 trees (5 varieties of trees were used in spite of the project's title) each paired with a basalt column in an effort to raise ecological awareness. His project took five years to complete.

Begun on March 16th of this year, the Second Life 7,000 Oaks project is a virtual recreation of Beuys' historic project.

Pairs of trees and stones dot Cosmos Island.

Pei Twang and Pei May (real life artists Eva and Franco Mattes) have placed 7,000 one-prim basalt stones on their island along with several oak trees. Residents are encouraged to participate by requesting a stone and oak tree pair to plant on their own land. As the stones are claimed, the pile of prims on the island will diminish to illustrate the status of the effort.

The number of columns is rather awe inspiring.

Judging by the 4643 objects currently on the parcel (I checked) the Second Life project will probably not take the 5 years of the original to complete. Many of the one prim columns have already been claimed. Each of the oak trees is 10 prims and the building is 12.

To collect your stone and oak tree, simply IM Pei Twang or Pei May with a request.

For more information about this and other projects in the "Synthetic Performances" series, please visit www.0100101110101101.org.

7,000 Oaks, Cosmos Island, (193, 118, 24)

My thanks to Osprey Therian for mentioning the project on her blog.

Caffinate Me

2007-04-03T05:55:00.000-08:00

I was in the market for an air conditioner (it gets hot in the summer) but all I could remember about the shop was the sim name. I found the Tu Amor Marketplace in search->places and figured that had to be it. I landed right in front of Addison White's Java Joe's Coffee House. Not what I was looking for, but I never let things like that stop me.

I smell caffeine!

Java Joe's has an authentic coffee shop atmosphere.

Although there is a wide selection, all drinks are self-serve unless you bring a friend.

Mmmm, peppermint coffee. My favorite!

It's one of those coffee shops that encourages you to just hang out. For hours.

I was so inspired that I made a second RL pot before purchasing my air conditioning unit from Screw This Appliances at the end of the block. I also acquired some Mrs. Butterworth's Syrup. Syrup tastes better when it is in a bottle shaped like a woman. It's scientific fact.

Tu Amor Marketplace, Tu Amor (61, 132, 24)
Java Joe's Coffee House, Tu Amor (75, 98, 23)
Air Conditioner, Screw This Appliances, Tu Amor (27, 21, 24)

Bring it.

2007-03-28T11:51:00.000-08:00

I am an avid reader of Second Life Games, Ondar Skall's blog. I am a huge fan of board games in RL (particularly those that combine Strategy and Blind Luck) and it always tickles me to find games of any kind in Second Life. Recently, Onder showcased a goban board.

Go is in here.

It turns out that Go isn't the only game Polaris Graystone has provided for the public at his Touchstone Cathedral. The restful Asian architecture of Effulgent Brown is the perfect setting for the challenges of a variety of single-player games.

I sorted the puzzle to the fewest moves possible (I think) but I was never able to do it quickly enough to get my name in the top scores.

I haven't seen sudoku in SL before!

Goooo, Ida! Way to play the peg game!

My personal favorite, I played Memory for ages.

Creator credits for the multitude of games include: DNA Prototype and Digi Vox, Stephane Zugzwang (sudoku), Psau Mfume (Go) and Chrystalshard Foo (hangman). The Cathedral is a scenic, thoughtful and fresh alternative to computer solitaire.

Cathedral, Home of the Pathfinders, Manua (161, 77, 25)
Deck full of one-player games, Manua, (186, 96 27
Goban, Manua (182, 65, 28)

If, like me, you can't get enough of Memory, the games by DNA Prototype and Digi Vox are available at the Gnubie Store in Indigo (214, 50, 47).

Delicious

2007-03-19T18:17:00.000-08:00

I recently paid a visit to Caledon Tanglewood, the Independent State of Caledon's newest and northernmost sim. The forest sim is springing to life at the hands of its quirky and completely charming residents. After a delightful stroll, I took a ferry ride (provided by Miss Kamillah Hauptmann) through Lionsgate to the charming Port Caledon where I hoped to catch a glimpse of Nessie.

Upon arrival, I noticed a manhole.

Curiouser and curiouser.

So of course, I clicked it (you can find the most entertaining things by clicking indiscriminately). I was not disappointed, the manhole cover opened obligingly, revealing a dark maw. I hopped right in. And fell quite a ways to land in a dimly lit underground cavern (World->Force Sun->Midnight for the best effect).

Luckily, in Second Life, one can breath underwater.

To the east was a large open area that I believe lies underneath the city streets. I followed the passage to the west, past some unusual artifacts...

I wonder if the driver managed to phone home for assistance.

...through a grate to the equally unusual basement room of The Lion and the Setting Sun. Which contained, among other things, an avatar-sized specimen cage.

*panic panic*

I quickly located the exit at the opposite end of the room and found myself beside The Lion and the Setting Sun, Miss Hauptmann's workshop. I poked around, taking note of several intriguing gadgets and the boxes of textures along the wall. I also perused the available reading materials to discover that Miss Hauptmann is "the last 'daughter' of Doctor Moreau. He was delicious." This information does explain the items in the basement...

Telehub, Caledon Tanglewood (128, 207, 22)
Ferry Landing - Tanglewood side, Caledon Lionsgate (138, 248, 22)
Manhole at the Pier, Port Caledon (149, 122, 22)
The Way Out, Port Caledon (111, 194, 22)
The Lion and the Setting Sun, Port Caledon (123, 175, 23)

Jack never had it so good.

2007-03-07T15:54:00.000-08:00

I was flying around registering sims (as I am wont to do), when I came across a very large sunflower. A VERY large sunflower.

There are fairy cushions to sit on in the top!

It's description claims that "Pandora's Giant Sunflower" is the "biggest in SL." I lack the resources to confirm this, but I will say that I personally haven't come across any other sunflowers of such staggering proportions.

Seeing the sunflower reminded me in mind of another larger than life plant: Stellar Sunshine's climbable beanstalk.

With a creation date of July 3, 2003 (I just learned about "inspect object"), the beanstalk is one of the oldest resident-built objects that I know of in Second Life. Legend has it, if you prove you can climb to the top unassisted (no flying no scripts), you'll be rewarded with L$500!

That red balloon wouldn't give me a tour.

I wonder if anyone has made it to the top. I sure can't.

Pandora's Giant Sunflower, Theretra (178, 202, 204)
The Beanstalk, Welsh (31, 81, 22)

Lordfly Digeridoo recently posted a link to snapshots of the 104 sims that were extant in March of 2004. Interesting stuff.

Guest Writer: Ignatius Onomatopoeia

2007-03-07T07:07:00.000-08:00

In Xanadu Did. . .
by Ignatius Onomatopoeia

After five weeks in SL, I am still new enough to have jaw-dropping moments. Svarga provides that; I felt as though I were strolling around Coleridge's poem.

The island, created by Laukosargas Svarog and currently owned and maintained by the Illusion Factory, has a Myst-style design with lush tropical plants, a virtual-life experiment, and even an oracle created by none other than Taras Balderdash himself. On my first visit I did not try the island's sound-stage experiment; it generates music based upon AVs chat.

When I popped into the telehub, I was in a crowd of AVs, something I'm not used to encountering in my early-morning (East-Coast US time) forays. I immediately jumped into a little egg-shaped flying car that gave me the guided tour. Be sure to use Mouselook as you fly over the island. The setting is so detailed that getting the best orientation possible will help later on foot or flying.

And this is a great place to walk. Practice walking on the rope bridge. . .I fell off. Also spend a few Lindens to feed the birds. Look for bird seed near the fountains of Svarga.

I ended up at the shop (of course) and enjoyed browsing the items that are Svarga-themed. Well worth 200 Lindens for some way-gone shades for this virtual Beatnik, dig? Then I took the Ambipod elevator (just outside the shop) to a wildly immersive audio/visual experience of floating in space.

Svarga Telhub, Svarga (2, 121, 21)
Oracle, Svarga (192, 121, 98) - downstairs from this courtyard
Illusion Factory's home sim, Illusion Factory (128, 128, 0)

**Ida's Notes**
You can read more about Laukosargas Svarog's amazing creation and the Virtual Balance of Life that Svarga is hosts on Hamlet Au's blog, New World Notes. Articles of particular interest include God Game and Saving Svarga. I also just discovered that Svarga is Sanskrit and refers to a Heaven where the righteous await their next reincarnation. Go figure. I always assumed it was just a play on the last name Svarog. Thanks for the great post, Iggy!

Shameless

2007-02-27T16:01:00.000-08:00

For anyone at all interested in machinima or photography, Fox Atomic Island is a treat.

I first became aware of Fox Atomic a couple weeks ago when I heard about the machinima contest.

While you're visiting the website, be sure to give I <3 Mutants a look!

The deadline for contest submissions has passed, winners will be announced Friday and I've started to wonder if the island will be available much longer. So take advantage of this opportunity to see the sites and pick up a free copy of the contest avatars and version 6 of the alt-zoom camera.

You never know when a mutant suit will come in handy.

Movie sets abound - this is no surprise, Fox Atomic is a branch of Fox Filmed Entertainment. Among the many "locations" for filming on the island are a foot ball stadium, a deserted mine, a beach scene with a jungle behind it and a nicely detailed bridge.

Young Ida wondered if she would ever make the team.

If that isn't enough to get your creative juices flowing, Sound Stages 1 and 2 have a number of additional sets: western, sky scene, jungle, suburban streets and green screen.

Everything seems quite enough...

The main building and amphitheater run trailers for the upcoming movies (enable your streaming video in preferences to watch).

All and all it is an intriguing example of real world marketing in a virtual setting. Kudos to Millions of Us and Fox for creating this interesting experience.

Fox Atomic (13, 13, 23) - avatars and camera are to the left
Football Stadium, Fox Atomic (196, 218, 23)
Sound Stage 1, Fox Atomic (119, 77, 22)
Sound Stage 2, Fox Atomic (51 147 22)
Main Building, Fox Atomic (32, 30, 23)

Zephyr Heights

2007-02-25T17:50:00.000-08:00

I went to pick up one of Tripper Tapioca's Unicycles (it's for a Vaudeville act) and remembered how much I like Zephyr Heights. I found it very early on in my second life (there's a Boing Fromage) and have returned several times to make use of the fantastic skate park that is to the right of the arrival point.

Wear your helmet!

There is a lot more to this gritty urban sim than skateboards. Tripper has recreated small, rundown town in it's entirety, complete with a variety of bars and other seedy hangouts. There is a Bispa rental kiosk to the immediate right of your landing spot at a bus stop. Simply click to rez a scooter.

As soon as I turn this thing around I am riding off into the sunset.

Need groceries? Zmart is the convenience store.

Free Zershy Bars! Awesome.

To my unending delight - the movie theater shows Rocky Horror.

After the show - stop by Stella Waffles for a piece of pie.

Best pie in SL.

You'll find more ramps in the abandoned building in the northwest corner of the sim. There are roulette tables on the second floor.

Huh. I never did buy that unicylce. Good thing I made SLurls.

Skate Park, Zephyr Heights (97, 185, 24)
ZMart, Zephyr Heights (37, 183, 24)
Zephyr Films, Zephyr Heights (213, 208, 24)
Stella Waffles, Zephyr Heights (168, 216, 24)
Abandoned Building, Zephyr Heights (40, 228, 23)

There is a forced teleport to the bus stop, so it's best to use a combination of SLurls and the map to get around.
There is a residential area toward the south with the same gritty charm (and a psycho's cabin in the woods).

Up to Somethin'

2007-02-24T06:09:00.000-08:00

Ever since that whole Volcano Tragedy at Tableau, the amount of sunny boardwalk recreation in my Second Life has been sparse. This changed when I dropped by Mischief Cove.

Not a volcano in site.

The Cove is loaded with cute shops (and a free gift or two) arranged around a nice, long board walk that is perfect for roller-skating.

I totally caught that shark myself.

The outdoor cafe area offers opportunities for lounging in the sun as well as coffee and hot dogs from nearby carts.

Just a tip: don't roller-skate with your coffee cup attached. Ouchy.

And, of course, no waterside build is complete with out sunbathing on the beach.

The shop rental office is in the lifeguard stand.

Miko Omegamu seems to have done most of the building (this observation is based solely on my hovertips), but either she or MissPrint Mahoney may be contacted for rental information. The private residences located on the outer edges of the island are also stunning, well-detailed builds. Be respectful if you choose to take a look around; with or without ban lines, those are people's homes.

As an added attraction, Mischief Cove also offers free classes (search in events for "Mischief") on a floating barge in the center of the cove. I'll be back tomorrow to make a Blingin' Diamond Ring. It's every girl's dream!

Mischief Cove, Mischief (147, 154, 24)
Roller Skates, Skoopf Vendor, Mischief (131, 97, 24)
Skinned Knee (available as a texture), Panjen, Abscence (162, 118, 25)
Beach, Mischief (239, 116, 21)
Chester!, Mischief (186, 118, 3) - Not Pictured

For more information and a compete calendar of Mischief Cove events, visit mischiefisland.com.

Benediction

2007-02-19T08:14:00.000-08:00

In the sim of Wildcat, a remote hermitage is nestled into the slope of the land.

The lintel is inscribed with the words "God Alone."

The area is called St. Benedict's Monastery in the land title and St. Theophane's Monastery in the owner's picks. I was unable to get in touch with prioress, Francois Jacques, to confirm the name (it's Update Day). Francois' profile names Eva Virgo as the creator of many of the structures.

The build is well planned and executed, if you follow the walkway up the hill from the first SLurl, you will find yourself outside the Monks' Enclosure.

Individual cells are also located in this complex.

A small cemetery is located further along the path.

The old abbot is buried here.

Turn to the right and climb the several sets of stairs to the chapel and bell tower, where you can in lose yourself in silent meditation and prayer.

chapel

It is easy to imagine the residents going about their accustomed rounds in the seclusion and peace of the abbey.

Front Gate, Wildcat (53, 170, 36)
Monastic Enclosure (do not enter), Wildcat (77, 111, 46)
Cemetary, Wildcat (96, 47, 49)
Chapel, Wildcat (42, 42, 95)

Once again, my thanks to Pinget for the landmark.

An Evening Out

2007-02-19T06:04:00.000-08:00

In the already stunning sim of Intemptesta Nox, there is an unfinished build of surpassing grandeur.

The Opera Populaire.

Sue Stonebender has modeled the Opera Populaire after the L'Opera Garnier in Paris (designed by Charles Garnier and constructed between the years 1862-1875) and the set design of the recent film Phantom of the Opera. Though incomplete, the build is hardly unimpressive. The missing walls and gridded building textures do not detract from the finished portions of the build, but rather add to the haunted quality of the area.

The front of the building with its unfinished columns.

The entrance hall.

The view from the stage.

Magnificent view of the sunset through the open wall.

I believe that building is already haunted.

Opera Populaire, Intemptesta Nox (189, 155, 75)

Sue Stonebender is currently out of world due to health issues. When you are finished exploring the opera house, I encourage you to take a look around the beautiful Intemptesta Nox and it's sister sim, Sanctum Sanctorum.

Unnamed

2007-02-13T19:25:00.000-08:00

Unexplored. Unpaved. Un-populated.

Unnamed(16,9)

These are sims so new that they aren't even represented as grid squares on the map. It is the wilderness of Second Life.

Maybe I'm the first avatar to set foot in this new land.

Primeval. Raw. And lag free.

Unnamed(14,10)

My Registrator-Tron didn't recognize their existence (version .51 - now with an in-world sim neighbor feature and giftability).

Hurry. Visit before it is too late.

Empty, Unnamed(16,9) (159, 116, 56)
Empty, Unnamed(14,10) (151, 132, 26)
Registrator-Tron .51, Green (190, 170, 22)

They are so new that SLurls don't work. You can get there the old fashioned way: type in the coordinates on the map screen.

Marooned!

2007-02-09T04:42:00.000-08:00

I was out and about in my Wee Tiny Tako this morning when I saw smoke on the horizon.

The Wee Tiny Tako seats both big and little people, but why not wear a tiny suit?

I beached my boat and hopped out to have a look around. Harry "Astrohog" Linden seems to have crashed his spaceship on this tiny island.

Anybody got a fire extinguisher?

The wreckage is still smoking, but the island was abandoned. The passengers must have been rescued soon after they set up camp and discovered the therapeutic mud bath. Perhaps they realized that they could fly and simply levitated to safety, abandoning their supplies. When you visit, look around for a Space Chest with fun freebies including a model of the Hog Space Craft.

Hog Spacecraft Crash Site, Mohrr (195, 200, 21)
Wee Tiny Tako, Home of the Flying Tako Sailboat, Gray (35, 162, 21)
Tiny Sheep Suit, ExtroVirtual - Wynx's Whimsical Wonders, Flights of Fantasy! Emit Time (68, 180, 24)

World->Region/Estate brings back the water.

Tributary

2007-02-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

The Riverwalk is an open air art and community center, built along the shores of Snake River. Near the arrival point is a guidebook notecard - I strongly suggest you pick one up - the area is sprawling. The guidebook also gives a history of how the area has grown and changed over time. The Cliffhouse, the Riverwalk's original build, was created in the spirit of Frank Lloyd Wright: clean lines and an appreciation of the surrounding landscape. The area grew, as builds often do, but it maintains the feeling that the structures are part of the land rather than being built on the land.

The Cliffhouse, like all of Riverwalk, is open to the public.

The Cliffhouse contains a variety of casino games as well as classic board games to play. Down the steps is the Swan Boat Rental Dock where L$5 will buy you 30 minutes of quite time on the water. All proceeds directly support The Riverwalk. For a brief tour of the area, grab a seat in one of the Swan Boats that are meandering along the river.

The Swan Boats are built for two.

Surrounding the Cliffhouse are meandering paths, patios with scenic overlooks and unexpected sculpture gardens. There is also an unusual maze of stone columns to the North. There is art everywhere. Art by RL artists in SL that has been uploaded - photographs, paintings, sketches - as well as prim sculpture is around every corner and leaning against every railing. If you are looking for that special piece to hang on your wall, or maybe a gift for a Valentine, I can almost guarantee you'll find it here.

"Hand Stand" by Starax Statosky. Not for sale.

Have I mentioned the sky diving? No? Buy the Parchute for L$0, hop in the jet propelled Octopus Launcher and you are ready to go. SL was having some inventory issues when I was visiting, so I relied upon my PoppinsUmbrella instead.

Falling from 15,000 meters is a great way to see the world.

I'm going back to enjoy the nightly fireworks as soon as I figure out what time sunset happens. Hope to see you there.

The Riverwalk, Ganymede (25, 227, 25)
The Riverwalk Cliffhouse, Ganymede (124, 241, 31)
Swan Rentals, Ganymede (111, 209, 21)
Maze Entrance, Europa (10, 27, 28)
Sky Diving, Ganymede (70, 175, 25)
PoppinsUmbrella, Mahoroba, Shaka, (110, 219, 25)

Bonus find: Dam across the river by Xenon Linden, Ganymede, (203, 118, 41)

Note: there is a forced landing spot for teleports, look to the red lines/dots that the SLurls create to find the locations.
As always, World->Region/Estate will bring the water back.

The Great Wall

2007-02-01T19:43:00.000-08:00

A 50 meter high wall of Linden origin spans the Northern continent (Heterocera Atoll) from Spini to Horisme.

It's an Imposing Structure.

I was unable to contact the creator to ask for more information: Governor Linden did not appear in Search->People. I was able to pull her profile from the land ownership page - this reduced my concern (and the possible impact on SL politics) somewhat.

The Great Wall crosses 13 sims. (The wall is that grey line.)

Each entrance has a staircase that leads to the dimly lit interior. It is possible to walk the length of the wall along a seemingly endless corridor.

That's not the light at the end of the tunnel, it's the end of my draw distance.

Or to run along the top, where the scenery is a little better.

There appear to be caterpillars etched in relief on the outer walls. Could this mean something?

A word of caution if you are inclined to run at breakneck speed along the top of the wall: sim crossings (where everything goes a bit phantom) can be dramatic at that height.

The wall gives the impression of great age. Residents have built shops and homes against its imposing sides. Many of the blocks with which it was made are showing the tell-tale signs of prim drift. Portions of the roof seem to have caved in completely.

The auto-return might also be having issues.

The History Wiki was frustratingly devoid of any information about the purpose of the wall, although Magellan Linden's exhibition notes might prove fascinating. If anyone has more information concerning this historic build, or knows the whereabouts of the Governor, please contact Ida Keen, Amida, Second Life. Leave your comments after the beep.

Ways into The Wall can be found at:
The Northern End, Spini (73, 137, 100)
Jubata (166, 150, 101)
Tyta (226, 238, 114)
The Southern End, Horisme (67, 53, 132)

Giant Max Case Statue (not pictured), Obscure (19, 129, 100)

Gorilalalalalala

2007-01-31T14:39:00.000-08:00

Not only is it Update Day, but it's National Gorilla Suit Day! Who knew? Wynx Whiplash, that's who! Her gorilla AVs (and chimp AVs) are on sale for L$100 each until 10pm SLT! I got one, of course, and what better place to show off your gorilla suit than in the wilds of a jungle?

On the island of Pamran, I found exactly what I was looking for.

I have always had a thing for pyramids.

Designed in the style of a Mesoamerican temple, the Temple of the Jaguar is dedicated to meditation, prayer and yoga. The temple opens when you say the magic words to reveal a secret interior - this was broken when I was there, but you can move the camera around and peek inside. Some very nice yoga animations are placed around the temple.

Gorillas are naturally flexible.

The build is in a secluded local with lush foliage, waterfalls and a bevy of poseballs to enjoy.

Gorillas really know how to relax.

You can always invite a firend to join you in your explorations. Especially a friend in a gorilla suit.

Hey, Osprey, is that another balloon ride? I just love Balloon Rides!

It turns out, Pamran is an artists' community sponsored by Guran Solomon. My brief glimpse of the area, the kindness of Guran (in spite of the gorilla suit), and hints of the legends that surround the island have made me anxious to return (in my girl suit) and take a better look around. I'll keep you posted.

Temple of the Jaguar, Pamran (245, 200, 22)
Gorilla suits! ExtroVirtual - Wynx's Whimsical Wonders, Flights of Fantasy! Emit Time (67, 180)
Poppies, Figments, Bisque (101, 102, 25)

Ave, Ida!

2007-01-29T17:58:00.000-08:00

When I first visited ROMA during my tender Newbie Days, it was a parcel on the mainland. (At least, I remember it being on the mainland. I was young, I could be wrong.) ROMA has since moved to a dedicated sim and has grown into what is, in my opinion, one of the Great Builds of Second Life. Torin Golding has put long hours into this build for the glory of the Emperor, Julian Augustus. (Really: look for him in Search->People.)

ROMA is absolutely packed to the gills, there isn't a square meter of this sim that isn't occupied.

Upon arrival, pay close attention to the Customs House, where you can obtain a map hud, a free toga and information about how to join the citizens group. Immediately outside is the first of the many sacred fountains distributed throughout the sim. Each one is dedicated to a god or goddess who is responsible for that particular district (Mars is outside of the arena, for instance). If you click the image of the god, the fountain will tell you some of the things that can be done in that district. If you click the water, a litter is summoned to teleport you to another area.

Scripted fighting in the Gladiator Arena is coming soon!

And there are a LOT of areas: the Baths of Caracalla, Caligula's Garden, the Basilica, a marvelous scripted play starring Dionysus, to name a very few. And what is a visit to ancient Rome without a Chariot Race in the Circus Maximus?

We were doing really well until I took a wrong turn.

Or a quiet read in the Library of Alexandria?

There is a copy of Plywood vol. 1 in the corner!

Or a visit to some ancient (unstable) ruins?

Oh, Enjah! Did that hurt? I didn't think the "Do Not Touch" sign was serious!

The map hud is really an invaluable resource that shows the myriad of attractions and locations.

I am actually wearing a Greek Peplos rather than a toga. But I figure lots of people were still speaking Greek anyway...

One of the most striking things about this build is the wealth of information. Red information buttons distribute notecards with historical facts or stories. There are information buttons everywhere. I know, I clicked on all of them. Each time another thoughtful, well-written notecard appeared I thought: "Torin, how long did it take you to do all this?!"

ROMA is littered with gifts and mementos. Each fountain has a unique treat that is free to purchase, click or copy and the Rich Imperialist Tidbit snack vendors are a scream. My favorite of the gifts has to be the Gem of Venus. It's a hud with several different animations to play. No wait - I like Jupiter's Lightning Bolt Thrower a whole lot. Mercury's money bag is also great. Everything is great - collect it all!

ROMA can only be described as a labor of love and one of my best (and most time consuming) Second Life experiences to date.

ROMA (215, 25, 22)
Circus Maximus, ROMA (150 135 44)
The Library of Alexandria, ROMA (101, 178, 46)
The Ruins, ROMA (208, 215, 53)
Peplos, Osprey Therian's Shop Bodega (210, 84, 40)

I have deliberately not provided many SLurls with this entry, there is so much to see and do in ROMA (I made four seperate trips just to write this article) that the list would be a mile long. My advice is to use the first SLurl (this is also the tp found in Search->Places), take a moment in the Customs House to read the pertinent information, and then take your time exploring the entire sim. Thanks for letting me know about the New and Improved ROMA, Pinget!

Boardwalk

2007-01-26T18:24:00.000-08:00

The sim of Pixel Dreams has been around since 2005, but with one thing and another, owner Tya Fallingbridge decided that after three years in-game it was time to reorganize. The sim and shops have been rebuilt as a charming beach front community complete with board walk, palm trees, and ocean breeze.

The shops have plenty of room for new products. Yay!

Pixel Dreams offers a variety of activities in addition to shopping. I am absolutely enamored with the bicycles that are available to the public in a variety of colors. You "wear" the bike and ride it by means of the built-in AO, hand signals are included in the animation to ensure safe turns.

The basket on the girl's version is a nice touch.

Surfing, windsurfing and boating will become available on Sunday, January 28 (tomorrow). Tya plans to have races in the near future.

The Happy Bean Cafe and ice cream carts provide refreshment and a place to take a break and organize one's thoughts.

..let's see...bikes, boats, shoes...windsurfing on Sunday...have I forgotten anything?

Schmooze, the club located at the North end of the build, is swankiness personified. Glossy black walls and floors set off modern decor and lighting to its best advantage.

The snapshots I took don't do the club justice. You will have to visit for yourself to fully appreciate the chic atmosphere.

Join the Pixel Dreamers Group to stay up-to-date on new releases, races and events!

Pixel Dreams (234, 27, 22)
Schmooze, Pixel Dreams (212, 193, 30)

You're it!

2007-01-25T09:18:00.001-08:00

Oz Spade has given residents a way to make their mark in Sistiana by providing an abandoned building as a canvas for graffiti.

The building formerly known as Oz's Meat.

A Graffiti Canvas prim is provided; you create, upload and apply your own texture. Then simply situate your prim on the building. There are guidelines (read the notecard), and the objects will be cleared as the parcel fills or at Oz's whim.

Painting the town.

Black Market - Community Graffiti, Sistiana (134, 242, 45)
Elka's Spray Paint, boing fromage, Miramare (168, 167, 27) In the jewels/accessories/gadgets vendor - there is a tiny version too.

Around the Sim in 80 Days

2007-01-23T05:37:00.000-08:00

Well, more like 20 minutes. And it took me another 10 to figure out how to make the balloon go - I completely missed the very handy "how to start the balloon ride" sign. Luckily there was no one around to see me looking like a dope.

Ambleside, Waterhead, Hawkshead, Grasmere and the edges some of the surrounding sims are home to the Linden Village where each Linden has a plot to create an in-world office. Several Lindens keep scheduled office hours (see their individual profiles for more information). The Waterhead Welcome Area (the one that looks like a summer camp), the Linden Recruiting Center, and RL Education In SL are are also located in the vicinity. I've visited the Linden Village on several occasions, but never noticed the balloon ride (I have Amazing Powers of Observation).

The tour begins and ends in a cute open-air pavilion (with refreshments).

The How To sign is clearly visible to the right of the balloon itself. D'oh!

For those of you who are as Observant as I: sit in the balloon and say "go" to start your tour. The balloon flies all around Ambleside, pointing out the offices of various Lindens. Though tour script is out-of-date (Ben Linden retired recently and several other builds and Lindens mentioned no longer exist), the ride is still a nice overview of the area.

The seat cushions can be used as floatation devices.

At the end of your tour, take some time to fly/stroll/run around the Linden Village. Linden plots vary widely in design, running the gamut from amusing, elegant, and informative to delightfully bizarre.

Jack Linden also has a grave with a tombstone that you can nap on.

Dan Linden has a talent for creating Plywood Boxes. *click the green one*

An explosion of Watermelinden Goodness. Kind of like her bear (it's up there on top).

Pathfinder Linden's office is loaded with gadgets, souvenirs of his travels and battle trophies (Griefer skulls are stored in a glass display case).

For more pictures, Torley Linden has a Flickr set devoted to Linden Village. Or visit and take some of your own!

Balloon Tour of Linden Village, Ambleside (45, 40, 33)
Jack's Place, Ambleside (77, 211, 32)
Dan Linden's Land in Ambleside, Ambleside 165, 30, 30
Torley Watermelinden Land of Happiness, Fruit & Recitations, Grasmere (190, 39, 53)
Pathfinder Linden's Office, Ambleside (57, 104, 26)
Waterhead Welcome Area, Waterhead (36, 76, 25)
Linden Lab Recruiting Center, Waterhead (147, 131, 22)
Real Life Education in Second Life, Waterhead (184, 7, 40)

Ancient Lands

2007-01-22T07:13:00.000-08:00

"Will you risk death for adventure?"

The island sim of Ancient Lands makes good its claim of dedication to "lovers, adventurers and photographers" with a delightful theme park atmosphere and a variety of attractions. Need proof? The arrival point is in a giant fish's mouth.

Ancient Lands offers shops (including a tattoo parlor if you feel the need to acquire a permanent souvenir of your visit), a great looking pirate ship to climb around on, an Elf Colony (a favorite party place for elves) as well as many hidden gardens and caves that lie off the beaten path. There are convenient teleports located in all the major areas. Don't be too tempted to teleport around, you'll miss some of the more obscure areas that can only be found by walking.

All that is fun, well done and thematically related, but my favorite thing about Ancient Lands is the rides!

Take the hot air balloon tour of the island for an overview of the area. The tour points out all the major areas of interest, offers entertainment suggestions and encourages visitors to explore on their own. After that, head to the port for a ride on a friendly dolphin.

Hi there, Angler Fish...haven't I see you somewhere before?

The Dolphin ride ends near the Beach Party Area complete with water slide, diving board, dance floor, and trampoline! There is also a Mine Cart Roller Coaster:

eeeEEEEEeeee

And a Zip Line Ride - a great opportunity for photos.

Wheeeeee!

With the exception of the Zip Line, all the rides are designed with seating for two people, making this a great location to visit with a friend or a date. If your date goes very very well, there is also a wedding chapel and some isolated areas for...erm..."adult activities" (these are fairly well hidden, making is possible to visit without offending Delicate Sensibilities).

The Covenant for the private island reads: "As time goes by intrigue and mystery will be entertwined with adventure and exploration by clever and tricky quests. Secret areas are scattered all over the island and eventually they will all be tied together by a running story line." I am thrilled by this news - many areas seemed to be part of a larger story and I have always felt that SL could use more questing.

I never did figure out where the music videos were playing. Maybe the story line could include that.

The Arrival Point, Ancient Lands (137, 15, 23)
Tourist Info, Ancient Lands (134, 39, 24)
Balloon Tour, Ancient Lands (146, 42, 30)
Dolphin Ride, Ancient Lands (120, 74, 22)
Mine Cart Ride, Ancient Lands (204, 166, 67)
Zip Line Ride, Ancient Lands (109, 116, 59)

Are We There Yet?

2007-01-15T15:36:00.000-08:00

By 1930, a mere 22 years after the Model T made its first commercial appearance, nearly 27 million cars were carrying tourists along highways and by-ways in the United States alone. Not about to miss an opportunity, roadside businesses began to compete for the attention (and cash) of passing motorists. What better way to catch a tourists' eye than a seafood restaurant shaped like a fish, a gas station with a giant shell facade or an enormous ball of paint? This sort of advertising (highly visual and often comical) created a colorful and unique roadside culture during the 1920s and 1930s.

When Pontiac opened Motorati Island, an estate devoted to "car culture," residents were invited to submit proposals for builds that would add character and interest to the sims. Osprey Therian, one of the SL art world's most notable personalities, elected to bring the outlandish charm of the Roadside Attraction to Second Life. With her typical flair and humor, Osprey created reproductions of a series of RL builds to adorn the hills of Motorati.

Stop by the Vista Gift Mart first thing to pick up your complementary map with the locations of the attractions marked. You'll want to drop into the gift shop again on your way home to acquire souvenir postcards, tea pots, snow globes and other items to commemorate your visit. Be sure to take your camera, these are photo opportunities like you have never seen before!

Commemorative Plates are the perfect gift for the avatar who has everything.

Each attraction is accompanied by a sign with the details of the RL work.

The real Giant Ball of Twine weighs 1,182 pounds!

One way please!

This potato is built to scale!

Osprey commented in an interview with Mororati Life, that it was the "absurdity, the playfulness, of these objects" that motivated her to recreate the folk art icons. She goes on to say that a "40 foot banana or a 60 foot Paul Bunyan can brighten my day in RL or SL...There’s something sweet and fun about these roadside attractions that is worth loading into my time machine and dragging into SL - we need more fun in Second Life (as well as in First Life)."

What could possibly be more fun than an 800 foot bear?

Vista Gift Mart, Motorati (207, 77, 23)
Nyloid Camera, Nylon Outfitters, Tableau (168, 185, 23)
Giant Ball of Twine, Velocity (219, 16, 38)
Drive Through Tree, Drive In (124, 68, 31)
Giant Baked Potato, Drive In (58, 63, 31)
Chain-saw Carving Bear, Velocity (198, 11, 40)

For more about Pontiac's Mororati Island, visit the official blog.
For more about roadside tourist attractions in RL North America, visit Roadside America.
Osprey Therian's works (giant potato and time machine excluded) are available in-world in Bodega Hills. Check her picks for more information!

Now and Zen

2007-01-08T13:24:00.000-08:00

Lime is one of the original Color Sims brought on-line in June of 2003. This makes it ancient as far as Second Life history is concerned. Many builds have come and gone in these historic sims. In Blue, there is a memorial to Americana, a build that was focused on portraying American culture and heritage. Grey houses the Kazenojin (People of the Wind) who are devoted to air travel. Aqua remains a shopping center. The Color Sims are an interesting place to spend time exploring - you'll find a little bit of everything.

Like Now and Zen in Lime, for example. My friend, Pinget, sent me a land mark the other day to let me know that the area was a excellent spot for a visit. Obscuro Valkyrie has created a lovely Asian setting with charming paths and sweet bridges. It appears to be monsoon season, so take an umbrella (or an Unbrella) if you are concerned for your prim hair.

My favorite part of the build is the highly detailed sushi house where you can grab a snack and get out of the rain for a bit.

To the North, there is a luxurious bath house.

Even though Now and Zen is in close proximity to the "backup" Welcome Area in Plum which is presently in use due to current immigration levels, I didn't see another soul during my visit. It is a soothing, meditative spot.

Americana Memorial, Blue (122, 126, 29)
Home of the Kazenojin, Grey (184, 188, 39)
Aqua Shopping Park, Aqua (175, 220, 21)
Unbrella Shiny Things, Shiny Falls (173, 181, 37)
Now and Zen, Lime (75, 109, 29)
The Sushi House, Lime (47, 144, 27)
Royal Bath, Lime (48, 288, 30)
Plum Welcome Area, Plum (73, 250, 47)

PS Go Gators!

Beyond Function

2007-01-06T06:58:00.000-08:00

Many of the more famous stores in Second Life have re-opened this week with new builds in new sims. While I was taking a look around (and buying ridiculous quantities of socks), it occurred to me that I had been avoiding pointing out areas of interest that happen to have been built for primarily commercial purposes. In retrospect, I think this has been unfair: there are many shops throughout SL that are more than just a nice place to buy things. Tableau Island, for example, immediately comes to mind.

They still have their Christmas Decorations up.

You arrive on the pier and are immediately greeted with signs advertising "Fun Things to do in Tableau." So you know right off the bat that it's a town built for the tourist. The buildings themselves look like they've been braving the salt spray for years and there's some fun swag just like you would expect from a campy little beach town (souvenir t-shirts for example). You can wander away from the beach and boardwalk and visit the park, tree house, underwater caves and bumper boats.

Doesn't Mahoroba just look like fun?

One of my top 10 favorite places in SL is Mahoroba. It is a completely zany little Japanese Pixel-Pop town. Not only are there entertaining surprises scattered throughout the build, but some really talented designers have their shops here. Clothing, accessories and animations are next door to amusing and useful gadgets (my Mary Poppins Umbrella came from Seagel Neville's store). And if that weren't enough for a good time, there is also a subway station.

Mahoroba is in a PG sim, so be sure to wear pants.

Silentsparrow and Factotum Dicassel have a new location in Koreshan that is as frought with ambiance as the old one. But the new location has room for an extensive underground network of tunnels. There are several ways into the dank sewers. I'll leave it to you to discover them.

/me wonders if she will ever get out.

Add to that the Uber Creepy Amusement Park next door and you have the makings of a lovely outing. Really, I could have Baedekered Koreshan Pointe all by itself!

Dude. Seriously Creepy. Don't miss the Teacup Ride.

I promise that while this list is incomplete - I have seen many commercial locations that transcend their function - I will never again omit spots of interest simply because I shop there!

PS What's a girl gotta do to get that "water shortage" bug fixed? World-->Region/Estate

Socks! at Celestial City, Celestial Studios (35, 219, 25)
Tableau, Tableau (244, 183, 24)
Mahoroba, Shaka (110, 219, 25)
The Subway, Shaka (131 ,155 26)
Silentsparrow and Factotum Dicassel, Koreshan (107, 216, 26)
Koreshan Pointe, Koreshan (242, 79, 24)

Flight of Fantasy

2006-12-30T07:02:00.000-08:00

As you may have noticed, I have a little bit of a soft spot for medieval-esque builds of all kinds. This might be a residual effect of all the fantasy I read as a kid. Or maybe it's because this sort of build in SL is almost always created for sheer pleasure. Or maybe I just like to play dress-up with my avatar. It's hard to say.

I can't remember what I was initially looking for, but I ended up in the J. R. R. Tolkien Education Center (which does not appear in Find Places). There, I picked up a notecard with several landmarks to Tolkien-related builds in SL. Among those landmarks was one to the island sim of Tol Eressea, a charming retreat in the style of Middle-earth.

Beautiful textures, thoughtful landscaping and striking structures come together in Elror Gullwing's startlingly well-executed build. Tol Eressea is crammed full of the sort of details that bring a build to life: tables are set with supper in the inn, horses reside in the stable, boats float on the waters.

I am especially fond of the Millhouse with all of its working pieces.

The picture of industry!

Subtle paths lead you from one area to another. Perpetual sunset, while not the best light for pictures, brings the atmosphere of a warm summer evening with all the inherent possibilites and mysteries to the exprience.

Who am I kidding? Perpetual sunset is a great light for pictures.

The teleport in Find places lands you in the lower left hand corner of the sim. Underwater. So I don't reccommend arriving at on the island at that location. Instead you might wish to begin your explorations at the Prancing Pony and wind your way through the woods and up the snowy peak.

Don't forget, if the water doesn't appear, World --> Region/Estate will bring it back!

J. R. R. Tolkien Education Center, Glidden (45, 82, 594)
Windmill by the Millhouse, Tol Eressea (135, 75, 22)
Elostirion Tower, Tol Eressea (236, 123, 23)
The Prancing Pony, Tol Eressea (76, 61, 24) - the stable is out back

Toobin'

2006-12-15T04:23:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are sick of snow, aren't interested in Christmas for one reason or another, or just like variety, I give you a dramatic change of venue:

Ride the rapids at the Tubes of Saturn!

The first step in your adventure is aquiring one of Ben Linden's world-famous InnerT00bs. These are available at the start of the rapids for L$1. They come in Classic Black Rubber, but are mod so that they can be customized. In fact, the InnerT00bs come with full permission so they can be shared with friends, enemies and newbies alike.

There are several parts to a t00b, be sure to "edit linked parts" when changing the texture.

Rez your beautified t00b in the water, right-click and select ride. The t00b will move lazily along with the current, but you can navigate the rapids with the arrow keys for a speedier ride (you'll wave your arms around as you careen wildly down the river).

Eeeeeeeeeee!

Take the fork to the right, and you'll go over a waterfall to continue your river journey through another five sims to open water. The fork to the left also has a waterfall but a shorter trip to open water.

Enjoy senic vistas and pastoral views along SLs many waterways.

Tubes of Saturn is part of the SL Public Land Preserve, a group that maintains many sites of historic and social interest throughout Second Life. Their group can be joined for a one-time L$50 donation.

Tinies don't need to feel left out of this particular SL pastime, Ben's t00bs are also available in miniature at Tiny Island.

Yes, I have a tiny sheep suit. I knit.

InnerT00bs are available for free not far from the Tiny T00bs, so if you are extremely short on cash, grab one there before heading over to the rapids. The t00bs work in all of the Linden water, so find yourself an area that has build enabled and go for a relaxing tour of SL waterways.

If the idea of donning a swim suit in mid-December gives you a chill, just remember: it's summertime in Australia.

Tubes of Saturn, Tethys (252, 154, 63)
Tiny Island, Yora (54, 37, 21)
Tiny T00bs, Yora (37, 52, 20)
InnerT00bs for FREE, Yora (2, 85, 20)
Wynx's Tiny Shop, Neverwhere (80, 98, 25) - you'll rez in the middle of the sim, just look for the red dot.

Winter Wonderland

2006-12-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

The Holiday Season is upon us! Christmas builds are popping up all over Second Life.

Winterland, with toy stores, Christmas trees, and drifting snow, is an excellent way to get a dose of Christmas Spirit. Have a look around and take advantage of the fun free and nearly free goodies that are generously distributed around the area.

Follow the street to a coastline that has frozen over into a sizable ice skating rink - the perfect place to try out the Skoopf Icicles Limited Edition (a new pair each week) ice skates! These are the best buy that I have seen in ages. They are loaded with jumps, twirls and various unique features (depending upon the version you purchase) to occupy and amuse. Just watch out for thin ice!

Winterlude Village, designed by Adam Burma, offers another jam-packed Christmas experience. Designed with the Canadian winter festival of the same name in mind, the build offers rides, gifts, "live" Christmas trees, skiing and pictures with Santa! Its location on the edge of the snow sims adds to the frosty atmosphere.

There is nothing like a Victorian Christmas - just ask Dickens. A gentle blanket of snow has covered the Independent State of Caledon bringing fun and frosty pastimes. A skating rink with adajacent pavilion in Port Caledon provides not only entertainment, but education with an abundance of Victorian Christmas facts and Christmas Cards to drop on your friends! Be sure to check the notice boards for more Holiday Events in the area.

Mmmm! Hot Chestnuts!

Take the time for a stroll or a tram (or train!) ride through this beautiful estate. As always, there are unexpected treats and striking personal touches throughout.

With the touchiness of the in-world search lately, it has been difficult to locate areas of interest. Please feel free to add SLurls to other Wintery or Holiday-themed locations in the comments!

Winterland, Del Agua (114, 233, 32)
Second Light by Moopf Murray, Nepessing (16, 207, 104) (but there are vendors everywhere)
Thin Ice, Del Agua (24, 24, 27)
Winterlude Village - Main Entrance, Takalo (144, 139, 175)
The Skating Rink in Caledon Orchard, Port Caledon (148, 51, 23)

Note: As with all teleports into Caledon, you will materialize at a hub. Just look for the red circle on your map to find your desired location. Mind the tram - it has no regard for life!

All aboard!

2006-09-16T06:01:00.000-08:00

There are two working railroads in SL that I know of. The privately owned Great Second Life Railroad (GSLR) and the Linden owned Second Life Rail Road (SLRR). The Independent State of Caledon has also begun work on a railway system that will transport its residents more quickly and easily through their ever growing community.

The TP associated with the GSLR in Find Places actually takes you to the station in Slate, but I reccommend beginning your ride at the terminal station in Purple.

The ride ends abruptly in Mocha (the end of the line anyway) where some delightful individual has littered the track with plywood cubes.

The train dissappears after a bit so that it can re-rez in less hostile conditions.

The head of the "Great Second Life Railway Group" is Athos Murphy who's profile informs us:
"The locomotive (based on a Midland Railway 4-2-2 steam engine built in 1900) and the carriage (based on an 1890s private coach in Britain) are currently just test items, to work on scripts and to determine clearances and visual effect. The Slate station is based on Wingfield station, also in Britain; the signal and viaducts are also based on British practice. Scripts for waypoint-based motion, the interior experience, scheduling, and audio files are underway."
I am looking forward to these additions, trains are a great way to see the world.

The SLRR is tracked by a talking map in ANWR:

As you can see, the SLRR is still in development. The map only has indicator lights from Tuliptree to Jubata although track has been laid all the way to Bhaga. I teleported to the Tuliptree Station (conveniently located at almost the dead center of the sim) and waited and waited and waited for a train.

There is a nice little picnic area provided by Abelard Ash just behind the station.

When no train appeared, I flew along the tracks (through many sims) to Jubata without finding it. Perplexed, I returned to ANWR to see if the map could give any more information. The indicator light was blinking red, north of Achemon, and the map was no longer talking. I decided to check the section of track on foot, but still didn't find the train. I can only guess that a Physics Accident or a Return to Inventory occurred, and the last place the train was seen was the location of the blinking red light.

According to the map, the train should be right around the bend...

When the train is up and running, I am certain that a ride on the SLRR is entertaining. Each station has its own unique look, and I noticed many other areas of interest (Including the Hobo Railroad in Calcutta which could be a Baedeker entry all by itself!) as I flew along the tracks. The locations of future stations are marked with "temporary platforms" of concrete. The SLRR is an ambitious Linden project, and one that I hope will not fall by the wayside (although I hope the inventory copy bug has a higher priority).

GSLR
The Purple Terminal, Purple (136, 203, 25)
The Plywood Cube End of the Line, Mocha (227 208 42)

SLRR
The SLRR Map, ANWR (96, 165, 35)
SLRR Tuliptree Station, Tuliptree (128, 128, 0)
Bhaga Terminal, Bahga (95, 38, 28)
Calleta's Hobo Railroad Infohub, Caletta (129, 207, 27)

Kasteel Veloren

2006-09-09T04:48:00.000-08:00

"Welcome to Verloren
Please feel free to wander at your leisure."

I've been here before. On my very early explorations into SL I ended up so completely lost that I had to teleport myself out. Which should give you some idea of the sheer size of the Kasteel Verloren.

The tp to the castle in "Find" (and in the SLurl below) will rez you in the entrance hall, but I prefer to approach from across the bridge. I recommend using the provided SLurl to Exact - you will get a much better sense of the scope (and may see something you like in Exact at the same time). By teleporting directly to the entrance hall, you also miss the cottages and outbuildings surrounding the castle.

The Caretaker's Cottage

I was better prepared to wander about on this visit. And took my time exploring the maze of sitting rooms, bed chambers, dining halls, the kitchens and servents quarters - the seemingly endless network of corridors and twisty staircases leaves you in doubt of your exact position within the castle. At one point I dropped through a hole in the floor into what I first thought was a chapel but on closer inspection appeared to be the throne room. There is a dungeon that I didn't notice on my last visit (the entrance is somewhat hidden) and stables with horses.

The table is set for just two.

The astounding attention to detail brings life to the build: carrot pieces have fallen onto the floor in the kitchen, boots are carefully placed under a bed, the fireplaces are lit in all of the rooms to ward off the chill of stone walls.

Dinner is being prepared

I kept my hover tips on for the length of my visit, the names of the objects are entertaining and occasionally, you will run across a free-to-copy item to take home as a souvenir of your visit (like the chicken feet in the kitchen). I came across only one other soul during my visit, a monk alseep in the courtyard. In true SL fashion, he was suspended in the air.

At the time of this entry, I had yet to reach Versu Richeliue, the individual responsible for the castle, to ask quesitons about the build. But Versu's profile reads: "The next person that tells me to "take a break" from building to dance or play tringo is going to get a smack...When I take a break, I log out." This sort of single mindedness and passion is marvelously displayed in the Kasteel Verloren.

Kasteel Verloren, Verloren (209, 131, 43) - The Entrance Hall
Exakt, Verloren (219, 31, 34)
Caretakers Cottage, Verloren (49, 200, 36)
Dungeon Entrance, Verloren (57, 78, 34) - Look around.

For more information about the beautiful Otherland estate, please visit their website or contact Dana Bergson or Ghoti Nya in-world.

The Forest of Kahruvel

2006-09-02T04:46:00.000-08:00

When I first teleported into the Forest of Kahruvel, I was immediately struck with an intense feeling of Great Age. Meters and meters of forest spreads out around the landing spot - old growth. Prehistoric growth. On further exploration (that is, wandering around), I begin to come across the ruins of an ancient time, fragments of history and the hideout of a man named Phyneas Jack...

I was enchanted.

I immediately began searching the recorded history of Second Life to see if I could find out more about the forest and it's mysteries. I came to discover that Salazar Jack and his family have been patiently replanting, reconstructing and excavating the Forest and its surroundings since the Lindens made their world available again. A world that they had fled 35 years earlier because of a catastrophic event known as The Great Erase. Valdora Grayson's (Salazar's mother) description of the event can be found in her apartments above the Cafe Jack. For his part, Salazar is now collecting the accounts, documenting discoveries and preserving the history of the area with his website.

While exploring the Seaside Village to the Southwest of the forest, I located two maps that showed the extent of the reconstruction.

On the left, the area map. On the right, the terrain map.

I have not included SLurls for all of the sites of archaeological interest housed within the Forest of Kahruvel and surrounding area; it is much more interesting to discover them for yourself. I encourage you to take the time to explore the area thoroughly - you will be left with many unanswered questions...

Whose hand print is this?

When touched, it makes the same noise as the landing spot.

How did this Tako come to be embedded in stone?

My guess is that this is the result of a Physics Accident that has gone unnoticed - not very mysterious at all!

What DOES happen if you ride the elevator in the light house by the village?

Be sure to visit Salazar Jack's blog to stay up-to-date on the archaeological progress and rebuilding efforts!

The Forest of Kahruvel, Rodeo (29, 36, 49)
Cafe Jack, Grignano (96, 116, 28)
Seaside Village by the Forest of Kahruvel, Cowell (152, 79, 27)
The Tako in Stone, Stinson (189, 93, 61)

New England Charm in a Virtual World

2006-08-25T17:35:00.000-08:00

There is a new yacht club in SL. This tipped me off to a wonderful new estate.

I did a quick fly-over late last night of the eight sims that make up Cape Cod and quickly decided that they were well worth an extended visit. So this morning, I donned my clam diggers and arrived on the dock for a leisurely stroll through rustic New England.

The Nantucket Yacht Club.

As luck would have it, Barb Carson, the proprietor of the estate, was in-world and able to give me a few moments of her time. We sat on the beach in Block Island, the newest of the sims, where Barb started a bon fire and told me the story behind New England.

Barb is from real world Long Island. She grew up deep sea fishing all along the the Eastern coast of Massachusetts; spending summers in a fishing boat, soaking up local culture and flavor. When she first came to SL at the suggestion of her brother-in-law, Barb began specualting in real eastate on the mainland. But there was nothing in SL that really felt like home to her. So she bought a sim and made a beach. Then added a fishing village and some shops. The project rapidly became New England, with four additional sims, Kendra Bancroft's (also from Long Island) talents as a builder, Mannie Madonna's boats (seriously, you should see the whaler) and Mathieu Basiat (of Bora Bora Isle) designed the waves.

As far as touist attractions and local interest are concerned, there is live music nightly in the events area, boat rentals, a casino boat and a small church that offers a full compliment of wedding services. The views are breathtaking.

The Whaler

The New England sims are still a work in progress, but the portions that have been completed reflect the look and feel of New England with a surprising degree of realism. It is peaceful there. The landscape has a very soft and natural feel to it, with land visible below the surface of the water. I am told that schools of native fish are being developed to bring life to the water. So visit now. And visit again in a few weeks as the estate grows and changes. You won't be dissappointed.

Homes and land (and houseboats!) are available for rent - contact Barb Carson or Montecore Babcock for more information.

The Nantucket Yacht Club, Nantucket (91, 65, 21)
Block Island (189, 119, 35)
The Lighthouse, The East End (196, 115, 35)
The Nantucket Marina, Nantucket (103, 16, 21)
The houseboats and Welcome Center, Nantucket (139, 158, 21)

Lascaux

2006-08-15T05:16:00.000-08:00

In my opinion, there aren't enough caves in Second Life. Probably because without the ability to hollow out the ground, they are tricky to do well. But luckily for me (and other SL spelunkers), Bizarre Berry had an inspiration to recreate the famous painted walls of the Cave of Lascaux. Complete with a hidden entrance (look around for the painted rock when you arrive), Bizarre's cave is a rare treat.

Start down the narrow passage way...

...to find the painted gallery.

As fan of the ancient world, I must say that I was happy to see this pop up in the forums! The paintings have been meticulously scanned and placed to their best advantage. Care has been taken to create a darker, cave-like atmosphere that enhances the experience. Bizarre's creation is a wonderful way to visit the caves. And the only way to visit at the moment - the real Cave of Lascaux was closed to the public in 1963. Carbon dioxide from visitors' breath (almost 1200 a day) was acidifying the moisture in the air, causing corrosion and algae growth.

The Cave of Lascaux, Modesta (98, 61, 58)
For more information about the RL caves, visit The Official Website.

PS There is an Ent avatar in Bizarre's shop!

ANWR: In which Ida rants about ban lines.

2006-08-07T05:06:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I did a little recreational sailing in my Tako. My journey began on the inland sea in the middle of the main continent. I noticed that there was a way to the coast, turned north and decided to see how far I could go. With the exception of one bizarre land anomaly where I had to portage my boat (at the corner of Tiger, Togata and Moma), I've made it all the way around the northern continent. In spite of the ban lines. I completely understand the desire to keep Creepy People out (and landowners have every right to do so), but I hate ban lines. You can't see them until it is too late.

Usually, running into a ban line while in a physics enabeled boat will knock you backwards in the water, reversing your momentum. This is a hinderance but not a desperate situation, as you can "moor" to stop the motion and then continue on your way. On occasion, a boat will get wedged into the lines and nothing can be done to get it back out. This is what happened yesterday on the northern coast of the northern continent. I couldn't stand up, moor, OR drag myself out with the mouse. I was sitting there, stranded in my boat, angry that I would to have to relog AND litter (the boat would be left behind) when SL was kind enough to inform me that my that my boat was now in my lost and found. Returned from Tickled Pink - TWO SIMS AWAY. So I relogged.

There is an upside to this: I ran across an interesting Linden build in ANWR.

A Linden Oil Rig!

I found this terribly amusing - the pipeline runs across the sea floor to the northern continent. The build itself is interesting and detailed, and has some sort of equipment that generates boxes, sends them down a conveyer belt and through a sliding door.

I wonder why they need so many pipes.

One of those charts seems to track the progress of the SLRR. I have yet to investigate.

It did strike me as odd that the rig appeared to be abandoned even though the equiptment was still in perfect working order. Perhaps some sort of X-Files-like Tragedy occurred.

Home of the Flying Tako Sailboat, Grey (25, 145, 21)
Portage! Tiger (14, 5, 53)
Tickled Pink, Pandorus (167, 218, 21)
Oil Rig, ANWR (104, 137, 24)

Beat the Heat: Visit the Snow Sims

2006-08-04T11:09:00.000-08:00

Why not take a break from the opressive heat with a visit Japan in winter? With beautiful architecture, outstanding texture work, mist and snow, Silk Waters Mountain is a stellar example of an immersive environment. According to the current owner's (Snakekiss Noir) profile, the build was originally created by Versu Richelieu and Jova Song, but Snakekiss has expanded far beyond the orginal concept to fill a sim and then some. I had a marvelous time exploring the asian styled village and market place (Yay! Souvineers!) and soaking up the ambiance.

I spent at least an hour hiking down the mountain, and I am sure that I did not see everything.

Silk Waters Mountain - the Peak, Verbier (173, 213, 213)
Silk Waters Mountain, Orelle (92, 112, 128)
Silk Waters Mountain - Lowtown, Orelle (192, 237, 106)

See the World, Walk for Life

2006-07-25T17:16:00.000-08:00

This weekend, Relay for Life participants were treated to a stroll (or run or skate) through beautiful builds representing 17 countries and a variety of climates and cultures.

In China.

Italy

My personal favorite is Australia (I will admit that I am somewhat biased, there are more sheep in real life Australia than there are people). Somewhat off the beaten path, Australia offers an immersive experience with wildlife, billabongs and the bones of stranded travelers.

Eeeee! Snake!

I am not sure how much longer the sims involved in the Relay for Life will be open to the public, so visit while you can! Try to spend some time exploring, many of the most interesting spots and activities are off of the main route.

The Starting Point, Chats (72, 208, 26)

PS I am not especially fond of the new picture taking system.

Postcard from Bora Bora

2006-07-12T12:10:00.000-08:00

I was island hopping the other day and stumbled upon a real beauty: Bora Bora Isles. Doesn't everybody look for those lone sims scattered around the world map?

There are demo surf boards in the pool. Very fun!

Mathieu Basiat has modeled his island after the reef formations of real world Bora Bora. For the sake of comparison, a map of actual Bora Bora is located here. The combined elements of tropical scenery, sea life and the crash of Mathieu's waves (showcased to great effect along the coast), create a relaxing and soothing environment.

Bora Bora Isle is a sublime spot, particularly at sunset.

The Wave Lab, Bora Bora Isles (121, 138, 24)

Sim Neighbors

2006-07-08T08:39:00.000-08:00

Max Case has developed a device which he has named the Registrator-Tron (now in version .4). This handy gadget attaches as a hud and generates a landmark to a random sim when clicked. Teleporting to the location shown on your map will take you directly to the center of that sim. You might end up in a casino or a lake or a tree, so tp with caution. The device also "registers" sims as you visit, providing database with a continuous supply of fresh information. The website will also tell you who your "sim neighbors" are, that is, the sims that share a server with yours!

My first try took me to a casino in Janus (Janus 127, 127, 66). And I spent a bit of time flying around after that and registered several sims that were new to the database. Woot! Eventually, I ended up in a parcel named Le Cimetiere that listed "vampire sex, goth and punk night club" as areas of interest. What I thought was interesting was that the area was surrounded by a very tall wall textured like the night sky.

The light blue circle at the bottom right is my Register-Tron.

While this looks a little odd when you are flying (and stops your progress when you fly into it), when you are on the ground it does provide the illusion of darkness.

Which is certainly a plus if you are a vampire. There is also a churchyard for those of you who are participating in the Dearly Departed photo competition.

You can get your own personal Register-Tron.4 in Games1. Click the swirly ball thing.

PS Ordinal Malaprop's Slurlchatter (available in the "Items Which are Free" box at Ordinal Enterprises has also proven to be an invaluable! Much like her Slurlbuilder, the Slurlchatter is an in-world tool that creates an on-the-spot slurl when clicked. An excellent resource for Baedeker entries. I have chosen to wear it on my right arm when exploring. It saves a great deal of time by eleminating the viscious cycle of rezzing and deleting.

Ranchos Grande de la Amigos (Games1 48,221,27) - home of the Register-Tron.4
That Casino (Janus 127, 127, 66)
Ordinal Enterprises (Caledon 96,32,0)

Pooh Sticks and the Port

2006-07-06T07:40:00.000-08:00

Created by Angrybeth Shortbread, Pooh Sticks is just as lovely a way to relax in SL as it was for the residents of the Hundred Acre Wood.

Port (23, 16, 22)

When you've had enough relaxation, be sure to take a look at the rest of the Port sim. There are a lot of interesting (and bizarre) things going on within the 3D grid.

Pooh Sticks, Port (23, 16, 22)
The Port, Port (233, 69, 26)

Spaceport Alpha

2006-07-03T03:49:00.000-08:00

One of the most exciting sims in SL (for me, at least) is Spaceport Alpha. I spent at least an hour at The International Spaceflight Museum during my initial exploration, and still didn't manage to see everything! Even if manned space flight is of no interet to you (You're telling me that the entire time you were growing up you never wanted to be an astronaut?), Spaceport Alpha is still well worth a visit.

For one thing, the rockets are built to scale. A handy height meter is provided to give you a better perspective of the scope of the project.

I'm that little dot to the right of the rocket in the foreground.

In addition to RL photographs, detailed models and live events, there are several interactive exhibits including a "clockwork" model of the solar system (to scale, of course, there are pointers to indicate Pluto), a rocket that blasts off with you inside and a planetarium. All exhibits are accompanied by a wealth of information in notecards and "spoken" presentations.

The individuals involved in the construction and maintenance of the International Spaceflight Museum are too numerous to list here, so take a peek at the group listing for Spaceflight Museum Planning. Officers include Kat Lemieux (founder), Shaun Altman, Chaac Amarula, Gearsawe Stonecutter, Kanker Greenacre, and Troy McLuhan. You have done a magnificent job!

I've saved the best for last! The museum has live NASA TV coverage of shuttle launches! Well, it will be live coverage as soon as a shuttle is actually launched (the last two attempts were scrubbed due to weather). On the original launch date, I and enough people to fill the sim - we removed our shoes and other attachments at one point so that others could squeeze in - turned up to enjoy "t-minus 9 minutes and holding."

Once the shuttle launch was scrubbed, participants indulged in a few fireworks and a rocket launch before the sim crashed.

The next shot at launch is July 4, you can find a description and a handy tp in the events listings.

International Spaceflight Museum, Spaceport Alpha (49, 79, 24)

PS The gift shop has freeze dried ice cream! I love that stuff.

A Brief History

2006-06-29T03:37:00.000-08:00

A Baedeker often begins with a brief over view of the area of interest as well as some general historical information. I will not bore you with yet another round up since many others have done a splendid job with the subject.

When you have finished exploring the Second Life Website and many of the links in my side bar, you might enjoy visiting these Areas of Historical Interest within the world:

SL Historical Museum, Phobos (217, 166, 33) - Created by Oz Spade, the Historical museum is dedicated to "chronicling and preserving the history of Second Life. The objective is to remember our past and where we have been and come from, while we continue to move forward into the future." It is well done and informative.

Second Life's Wall of History, Kirkby (133, 164, 24) - The Wall of History was created for the Second Birthday (by Pathfinder Linden, of course). While some of the information is outdated, much still has pertenance. There are some wonderful pictures from Alpha. The rest of the area is also worth exploring, there is a great deal of information about the various activities in Second Life, and an art gallery.

Governor Linden's Mansion, Clementina (188, 122, 62) - Preserved from Alpha as a monument to the early creators, the mansion is the oldest building in SL. The basement houses a photographic exhibit and the original time capsul.

Beta Monument, Plum (128, 53) - as a Resident of SL, it is important to reflect upon the Avatars that came before us. I strongly encourage a visit to this monument where the 1593 names of the Beta Testers are enscribed on the walls. Many of these individuals can still be located in "Find" indicating that their involvement in our world continues. You will recognize some of the names.

Visiting the Beta Monument

As a bonus: an RL historical display (This is not at all about the history of SL, but I discovered it while I was locating the coordinates for the museum and found it interesting).
Second Life Library History Gallery, Info Island 178, 159, 33
I am fond of endeavors to bring Real Educational Experiences into the Virtual World.

The Office of Second Life Tourism

2006-06-27T03:54:00.000-08:00

So here's the thing.

In the virtual world of Second Life where the landscape changes every day, where the builds can come up and go down in a matter of seconds (depending upon the speed of one's graphics card), "seeing it all" can be a bit tricky. There are no historical markers, there is no board of tourism complete with pamphlets (although Pathfinder's Picks can be a good start), there is no tourist agency to help plan virtual sightseeing. When I first came in-world, I found this to be rather tragic. I was a little surprised that in a world where building was such an integral part of the culture no one was really highlighting "Tourist Spots." There are so many people making so many incredible, wacky, disturbing, unusual, impossible things. Where does one start? How does one know where to look first?

The RL Victorians had the same problem. The middle classes, finding themselves with the cash and leisure time for travel, needed aid in understanding the cultural value and significance of the sites that they were visiting. Karl Baedeker solved this problem with his Travel Guides, which were published from the 1830s until WWII.* In short, one's Baedeker told one where to look and what to think about it. While I am not particularly interested in shaping my Dear Reader's opinion (I am quite sure that my Reader is capable of articulating personal likes and dislikes), I think it would be valuable to be kept abreast of where to look in-world.

In the rapidly-changing world of SL, a published book wouldn't do a bit of good. It would be out of date by the time it came out of the THiNC Printing Press. But a blog. A blog is flexible. Agile. Ever changing.

And here we are.

*Incidentally, there appears to still be a German company publishing under the name of Baedeker. But since I do not read German, I can't tell if they are kin to the original. You may view their site here.