Douglaston Resident to Discuss His Marco Polo Adventure at Dec. 4 Event

A Douglaston photographer and explorer will discuss his two-year project to recreate Marco Polo’s 25,000-mile journey during an event early next month on Long Island.

Denis Belliveau, who lives in Douglaston, will relive his adventure during the Marco Polo Banquet at Port Washington’s Kazan Restaurant, an Uzbek eatery at 75 Main St., on Dec. 4.

At age 29, Belliveau spent two years recreating Polo’s journey over land and sea from Venice to China and back.

The result was an Emmy-nominated film, “Footsteps of Marco Polo,” which aired on PBS and was followed by a book.

In 1996, he was inducted into The Explorers Club as a result of his journey and accompanying film and book.

During his presentation next month, Belliveau will discuss everything from camel rides to railroading on the Silk Road during his journey.

The presentation will include history, art, adventure and humor and attendees will have the opportunity to purchase Belliveau’s DVD and book and have it signed.

Food at the event will include salads, appetizers and Tandoori bread as well as baked samsa (puff pastry with lamb and onions), shurpa soup (authentic Uzbek soup with beef and vegetables) and pan-seared Cornish hen with rice and vegetables.

A family-style portion of Uzbek plov, a hearty rish dish, will be available for every table. Wine and soft drinks will be served.

The event will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The cost is $69, which covers the presentation, dinner and gratuity.

Preregistration is required. Call 516-439-4444 to reserve a spot.