Dr. Engel's Hobbies and Interests

• Archaeology    

I enjoy visiting archaeological sites and museums around the world.  My favorite archaeological sites include the city of Bath and Stonehenge in England and the Maya ruins at Chichen Itza in Mexico.  My favorite museums are the British Museum in London, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, and the Louvre in Paris.

Dr. Engel (with hat) at a Maya site in Mexico

• Japanese Militeria from World War II

I have begun collecting certain items related to the history of Japan from about 1900 to 1945.  I like the sake cups because they represent a common gift that was presented to soldiers at various times in their military career.  They are identified by the branch of the service and often have identifying artistic symbols related to the emperor.  I also collect Arisaka rifles and bayonets.

Four sake cups shaped as military helmets and one sake bottle.

• Retirement Planning

I have been very involved in retirement planning as a hobby since 1992.  Being active in the overall  management of my retirement portfolio has given me a hobby that I can take part in on a daily basis.  It also directly "improves" my chances of being able to travel and to expand my interests in archaeology and travel.

Dr. Engel