Marco Polo Study: Indian Ocean

Indian Ocean

~photo courtesy of Google maps



The Polos finally began to make their way home after 17 years of traveling across Europe and Asia. Taking the sea route across the Indian Ocean, they traveled treacherous paths along the coasts of Vietnam, Malaysia, the Spice Islands of Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and India.

The reports Marco gave of the islands and coasts were filled with extraordinary tales of cannibals, beautiful scenery, rich gems, valuables, and spices galore.

The path the Polos took brought them to the sources of the most valuable spices of the time: pepper (India), Cinnamon (Sri Lanka and India), cloves (Indonesia), and nutmeg (Indonesia).

We tried out some of these spices.

Then we tried our hands at Rangoli, a form of Indian sand art.

First, we drew our pattern. Then, we used glue to trace the pattern.

The hard part is considering what to glue-only one color sand can be used at one time.

We read  Marco Polo: A Story of the Middle Ages Ch. 18.

I am working on a year long series on the Polo family travels and thought I'd share it with you. Enjoy and please post any additional information you have for us or corrections.

Previously: Tibet Next Up: Homecoming

Wishing you homeschool blessings,

Bethany