Travel

• Most Topular Stories

• New Hotels: A roundup of room rates and packages

  Travel Guides

  Randy Colt

  5 Feb 2012 | 1:41 pm

  The past week was very important for some of the newest hotels which just opened their doors for their guests. Here are some of the hotels which recently opened and their current room rates: Tryp by... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Groupon will ‘trash your brand’, says BA and Tui

  HOTELMARKETING.COM

  markus.busch@hotelmarketing.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:01 am

  Two of the UK’s biggest travel companies have dismissed discount-deals site Groupon as of no interest, “appalling” and a way to “trash your brand”. The danger with Groupon is that you allow someone to subsume and ultimately trash your brand.

• Reverse Time Machine: Visualizing a Year Of Travel Data

  TripIt Blog

  Amy Jackson

  24 Jan 2012 | 11:00 am

  By Cemre Güngör Most of the apps on TripIt’s open platform assist you with your upcoming or current trips. However, I discovered a reflective benefit to using TripIt: you create a physical record of where in the world you have been.  So as my final thesis project at NYU's Brooklyn Experimental Media Center, I experimented with visualizing data from TripIt to look back at my own (and other people's) travel history.  I thought creating a physical object would let the data expose itself in very interesting ways.  While I started off with visualizing itineraries on a map, I…

• Beaches with a real heartbeat

  Travel - latimes.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:15 am

  A romantic beach is one of those can’t-miss Valentine’s Day standbys — the more pristine the better. And no one knows pristine like Heal the Bay, which has released this guide to the West Coast’s most romantic sand. All have received an “A” for water quality.

• When Rail Journeys are Disrupted: Meet the Railteam Alliance

  Budget Travel Tips - EuroCheapo

  hiddeneurope

  8 Feb 2012 | 10:14 am

  The great majority of our many rail journeys across Europe work perfectly. Most trains really do arrive punctually. But from time to time Europe’s railways do have bad days, particularly when bad weather rolls in and plays havoc with schedules. When winter strikes In three of the last five winters, we have had at least one trip where we were seriously delayed on journeys back to our Berlin base, in each case not reaching home until a day later than anticipated. And that is just what happened last weekend: what should have been a routine journey from London to Berlin turned out to be a…

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  Travel - latimes.com

• U.S. State Department warning maps out unsafe areas of Mexico

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:18 pm

  The U.S. State Department issued a new state-by-state warning for travelers to Mexico that details the more violent areas of the country but also points out popular places such as Cabo San Lucas and Mexico City where travel advisories aren't in effect.

• Beaches with a real heartbeat

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:15 am

  A romantic beach is one of those can’t-miss Valentine’s Day standbys — the more pristine the better. And no one knows pristine like Heal the Bay, which has released this guide to the West Coast’s most romantic sand. All have received an “A” for water quality.

• A cruise with an NFL theme? Yup, Shula and Csonka are on board

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:00 am

  For football fans, it's a cruise dream come true: NFL greats including former coaches Don Shula and Dick Vermeil, past Super Bowl MVP Larry Csonka and NFL referee Jim Tunney will set sail in May on a Crystal Cruises journey from New York to Dover, England. 

• Galveston Pleasure Pier brings thrill rides back to Texas coast

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:45 am

  A disaster-prone Texas tourist destination that for more than a century has been an on-again, off-again home to oceanfront amusements will once again lure thrill-seekers with roller coasters, midway games and carnival confections.

• Thursday Travel Ticker: New findings on blood clots

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  A new blood clot study finds that flying economy class is not any riskier than first class , as sometimes thought, but sitting by the window seems to play a role, because it makes people less likely to leave their seats. Still, even on long flights (four hours or more) the risk for most people is extremely low, an American College of Chest Physicians' committee reported. For details, go to http://www.chestjournal.org . . . . Salt Lake City retail shopping scene undergoes a major upgrade March 22 with the opening of City Creek Center , a shopping and dining destination downtown.  With a total…

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  Hawaii Vacation Blog - Hawaii Travel Guide, Hawaii News

• Manny Aloha Art ‘Upcycles’ the Old into New

  AlohaBruce

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:35 pm

  Instead of a bicycle built for two, local artist Manny Pangilinan crafted a wooden horse for two…two tykes, that is, which sent them rolling from one end of the room to the other. In Hawai‘i, Manny's known for his island-inspired art found in a variety of mediums – wood, paintings and murals. The wooden horse was just one of the many pieces he was inspired to create after he saw a need for it in his household; turns out, it became a hot item for parents seeking sustainable toys. One of many Manny creations: a whale-shaped towel rack (top) and a rolling horse dolly…

• Shrills and Shivers on Premiere of ‘The River’

  AlohaBruce

  8 Feb 2012 | 4:34 pm

  If the bloody Blair Witch-style shot of the dead cameraman didn't freak you out, then maybe those creepy dolls hanging from the tree did. Last night's two-hour premiere of The River screamed with eerie scenes and rekindled a few recurring nightmares of mine. Filmed in Hawai‘i, the spooky new drama about the search for an explorer missing deep in the Amazon has already been compared to LOST and Paranormal Activity. But after the naked, moss-covered dolls scene, there was a frenzy of tweets comparing it to the 1990s horror film Chucky. The search is on for Dr. Emmet Cole, who…

• See Honolulu from Atop Waahlia Ridge

  AlohaBruce

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:35 pm

  When reaching the serene state park on Wa‘ahila Ridge, cool, refreshing air instantly let's you know that you've made it to the top of St. Louis Heights, an area guarded by the vast Norfolk pine trees standing astutely at the park's entrance. They shade and protect the ridge while padding the ground with several layers of its soft pine needles. Wild chicken and roosters weave in and out of their firmly rooted trunks, and all is quiet. Wa‘ahila Ridge at sunset is a must-see if you're in the neighborhood. Unlike the crowded vista points on Round Top Drive and…

• Go Cray Cray at Clay Cafe

  AlohaBruce

  7 Feb 2012 | 1:35 pm

  A recent coffee date with my mom and sister involved a little bit of caffeine and a whole lot of clay! We went to the Clay Cafe at the Ward Center, where customers can paint their own pottery pieces while enjoying some coffee and baked goods. Every day, Clay Cafe inspires customers to put on their creative caps. This is a perfect activity for the family and an even better way to bring home something you made to remind you of your Hawai‘i vacation. Bowls, plates, picture frames and little figurines serve as blank canvases for customers to paint. Basically, you choose your piece, plan…

• Bruce Fisher: Making the Hawaii Connection

  AlohaBruce

  6 Feb 2012 | 7:38 pm

  Bruce Fisher spends his days telling visitors about Hawai‘i, but his own first impressions are somewhat hazy. His first visit was when he moved here in 1992. Working a radio shift at night, Bruce got a crash course on Hawai‘i culture during the day. That crash course took on new intensity when Hurricane Iniki hit the island of Kaua‘i on September 11 of that year. Bruce got to the island just after the impact. There was no way to get information to or from the island: telephone lines were down, and radio stations were off the air. “I left with a cassette tape recorder,…

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  Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast - Insider Tips On A Hawaii Vacation.

• Hawaii Vacation News you can use

  Bruce Fisher

  3 Feb 2012 | 1:04 am

  United Announces Nonstop Flights from Washington DC Just when I was thinking there was no relief in sight from all of the high airfares this year, United airlines announced this week that they are beginning nonstop service from Washington DC to Honolulu in June. Ironically,  this is the same month that Hawaiian Airlines is beginning air nonstop service from JFK. This is great news for our friends on the East Coast who have been struggling  to find decent airfares this year. Increased competition is always good and having more airlift from that region will be a big boost to the…

• What happned to the Hawaii Airfare Wars of 2012?

  Bruce Fisher

  29 Jan 2012 | 11:32 pm

  Hawaii Airfare Wars Usually every year the first couple of weeks brings a belated Christmas present in the way of airfare wars to Hawaii. While we’ve seen a few specials, the typical lower prices on airfare to Hawaii have been few and far between. United Airlines typically has the most airlift  to Hawaii than any other major carrier. This year we have not seen them drop at all in their prices which is affecting the marketplace. The Continental /United merge has not made anything any better with regard to pricing because there is less competition and forced a lot of the flights that…

• Will Gambling ever come to Hawaii?

  Bruce Fisher

  21 Jan 2012 | 7:44 pm

  Hawaii Vacation Connection E 491 Gambling in Hawaii Today we talk about a new survey which was released in Hawaii which found that 76% of local people questioned said they would visit an entertainment center with a casino in Waikiki. This comes as a bit of a surprise because traditionally gambling has not gotten much support in Hawaii. Today we talk about the reasons why this comes up every year and discuss the possibility of casino gambling coming to Hawaii. Keep your distance from sea mammals in Hawaiian waters We’ve been seeing very disturbing images over the last couple months of…

• Top 10 reasons to use a Hawaii Based Travel Agent

  Bruce Fisher

  14 Jan 2012 | 5:08 pm

  Hawaii Vacation Connection E490 Using a Travel Agent It’s that time of year again when Hawaii vacation planning is in full swing. Today I share  the top 10 reasons for booking a Hawaii vacation with a local based company like ours. There really are a lot of advantages. Obviously,  the most important is that we’re actually in Hawaii. This goes a long way in helping you get the most out of your Hawaii vacation because we can share with you our personal experiences and give you honest feedback. Most of the customers I talk to  tell me they book with our company because…

• Planning a Hawaii Vacation in advance saves money

  Bruce Fisher

  7 Jan 2012 | 12:38 pm

  Hawaii Vacation Connection – E498 Start Planning you Hawaii Vacation! If you’re thinking about coming to Hawaii now is a really great time to start planning. Very often I recommend people do advance bookings because you can lock in a good package price and with our flexible terms we can keep an eye on the price;  if it goes down we adjust your package price accordingly. This is great if you’re on a budget and want to get your trip paid off in smaller chunks. We’re also seeing some great getaway deals for the winter from the West Coast. For example, you could spend…

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  Matador Network

• How do you breathe?

  eric warren

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:40 pm

  RC Cone’s short film about ditching the rat race to explore Montana’s rivers speaks to more than just the fishing enthusiast. Screenshot from video AFTER WATCHING THIS FILM, I considered tossing my laptop into the nearest river. With wages remaining stagnant for almost 40 years and high unemployment threatening to keep it that way, having an unfulfilling job is getting less and less appealing. Stress is going up. The standard of living is going down. Under its “this is what I did” guise, “Breathe” is a call to action. This one film may not be enough to make…

• Our flawed formula for happiness

  Carlo Alcos

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:44 pm

  “If happiness is on the other side of success, your brain never gets there.” BACK WHEN I WAS WORKING in the corporate world fixing computer problems, my team’s and my “success” was measured with statistics. The number of tickets taken, the number resolved, the amount of calls picked up, time spent on the phone. Those kinds of numbers. I was consistently a top performer and took pride watching those numbers climb each month, until one. I’d broken a record; I’d fixed more PC problems than anyone else in recorded history that month. You know what the…

• The uncertain future of Ukraine’s illegal mines

  Chris Miller

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:07 am

  [Note: This story was produced as part of the Glimpse Correspondents Program, in which ten writers and photographers receive a stipend and editorial support to develop two long-form narratives for Matador. The Glimpse Correspondents Program is open each fall and spring to anyone who will be living, traveling, working or studying abroad for more than ten weeks.] THE BLACK HYUNDAI bounced along Highway 21 en route to the eastern Ukrainian mining city of Torez, each pothole tossing me from my seat. I peered from behind as Alex, a journalist and friend of mine, carefully navigated the car around…

• Why San Francisco hates Los Angeles

  Josh Heller

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:16 am

  Photo by 20 buckz. I’ve never completely understood why San Franciscans talk smack about Los Angeles. I’M FROM LOS ANGELES, and I love San Francisco. I’d never call it San Fran or crowd the streetcars on my way to eat Ghiradelli chocolate and Boudin bread bowls of clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf. We’re Californian too! We respect your vibe man! But many San Franciscans see it differently. You can be brutally attacked (read: coyly judged) for merely mentioning that you’re from Los Angeles. Last summer my girlfriend and I went to a cafe on Warschauer Straße in Berlin. An…

• Need a break from winter?

  Joshywashington

  8 Feb 2012 | 4:28 pm

  Spend 270 seconds revisiting the Summer of 2011. THIS VIDEO IS PURE GOOD TIMES. I don’t know the people shown but I can’t help but smile at the clearly epic summer they shared. Shot in Seattle and beyond in the warm months of 2011, (270) Seconds of Summer is an ode to friends and fun that I felt compelled to share. This video found me on the perfect afternoon. Turning towards the living room window I see fat globs of rainwater falling from cedar boughs and a haze of drizzle. This is what people think of when they think of shitty Washington weather. (270) Seconds of Summer snapped…

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  This Just In

• Are Airlines Cracking Down on "Airplane Mode"?

  Budget Travel

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:53 am

  Alec Baldwin might have gotten a high–profile slap on the wrist for trying to use his smart phone during a takeoff, but he’s hardly the only flyer loath to give up Words With Friends privileges. Despite repeated reminders from airlines and flight attendants, there are always those people who can’t seem to tear themselves away from their electronics. That’s why "airplane mode" (or "flight mode") has been such a boon for the technological traveler: By disabling a cell phone’s transmission capabilities, airplane mode renders cell phones acceptable for non–call purposes during…

• A More Comfortable Hotel Stay? There's an App for That

  Budget Travel

  7 Feb 2012 | 4:38 pm

  We've already shown how you can use your phone to find a place to stay, whether it's booking at the last minute, finding the nicest room in a hotel, or revealing which property you're about to book on an opaque site like Hotwire. But what about making your actual hotel stay more comfortable? Now there's an app for that too. The same company that works with hotels to set up interactive television systems such as the ones you find at The Iroquois in New York has developed a free app aimed at optimizing the hotel experience for anyone with a smartphone. (Courtesy LodgeNet Mobile)By downloading…

• Gulf Coast Beaches Recovering In BP Aftermath

  Michelle Baran

  7 Feb 2012 | 3:24 pm

  President Obama being briefed on the spill in May 2010 (Courtesy usepagov/Flickr)Following the recent hurricane season, environmental inspection teams have analyzed the coastlines impacted by the April 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill (also known as the BP oil spill) to check for additional impact, and the results show gradual improvements across the region. The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality last month completed a 40-mile shoreline oil spill inspection, or 111 segments of shoreline, of which three segments need additional cleaning and monitoring. In Florida, 39 miles of…

• Best Reader Tips for Flying with an Infant

  Budget Travel

  7 Feb 2012 | 2:53 pm

  Well, we survived our first flight! It actually wasn't so bad and our son was a trooper (that's him, taking it all in). (Courtesy Danielle Contray) Thanks to all of you that weighed in. The advice that came in handy the most was to stay calm—something I had to remind myself to do on a couple occasions. I've listed some of the most useful advice below, and I'll give you a couple of my own. Screening processes are different at every airport. We flew out of JFK and sailed through security no problem, even with bottles of formula and liquid antibiotics (which we packed separately and…

• Using Pinterest for Travel Inspiration

  Sean O'Neill

  6 Feb 2012 | 1:32 pm

  Pinterest for travel inspiration (Courtesy Pinterest travel page of Julie Gallaher) The scrapbooking site Pinterest is a sudden sensation. In the past few months, the site has quadrupled in membership, with about 7 million visitors a month, most of them women. Pinterest is "a visual social network that organizes images by topic and lets you reshare with just one click," in the words today of tech celeb Pete Cashmore. The surprisingly addictive free site allows users to upload visually appealing pictures and content (such as advertisements or images of magazine covers) to "boards." Any time…

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  Wanderlust and Lipstick

• Howler Brothers LoggerHead Shirt – WanderGear Wednesday

  Beth Whitman - Wanderluster

  8 Feb 2012 | 8:45 am

  Last fall, I started running – for the first time in my life. Running was something I said I could never do. But I was faced with needing to train for a trek in Bhutan and, with months of travel prior to that trip, I knew I couldn’t get to a gym on a regular basis. So, I needed to figure out a way to exercise where ever and whenever I could. Running has opened up a new world of friends, conversations and the need for some new gear! In the process of filling up my new “running drawer,” I discovered Howler Brothers and the Loggerhead Longsleeve Shirt. This version of…

• Vietnam Buddhism – Photo of the Day

  Beth Whitman - Wanderluster

  3 Feb 2012 | 9:02 am

  I was thinking about what aspect of Vietnam I love most. After having traveled there 8 times, I wouldn’t exactly call myself an “expert,” but I’ve become familiar with many aspects of the country – to the degree that I have such close friends there that I consider them my Vietnamese family. One of the strongest things that speaks to me is the Buddhist nature of the people. A Buddhist practitioner myself, I don’t follow their particular lineage, but I am drawn to their kindness and gentleness – which I think grows out of their religious beliefs.

• Win Dovetail Body Bands – February Contest!

  Beth Whitman - Wanderluster

  1 Feb 2012 | 9:58 am

  I’ve always said I’d make a million bucks if I could create the perfect way for women to carry their money and passport. I think Dovetail Travel in Peace might have come up with what I’ve been wishing for for years. There are 2 body bands that are part of the Dovetail collection. They include a waistband that wraps around your hips (left) as well as the wing in which you insert your arms through the loops and the pocket sits against your back and over your bra. I’m not sure that either of these are meant to replace your money pouch (which you normally would want to…

• Best Books About India

  Beth Whitman - Wanderluster

  31 Jan 2012 | 8:25 am

  There are lots of books out there on or about India. Here’s just the start to a list that could go on forever. Travelers Tales India – There’s nothing like reading other people’s true stories about their travels to a given destination. It really helps to envision yourself at that locale (for better and worse!). This collection from Travelers Tales is a wonderful compilation from well-known and little-known travel writers. With nearly 50 stories in all, it will get you excited either prior to your trip or will help to put things into perspective once you’ve…

• Burma Photos (Part III – Food)

  Beth Whitman - Wanderluster

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:27 am

  The first time I sat down to a meal in Burma and ordered a set menu, I was surprised that everything arrived on the table at the same time. Appetizer, soup, entree and dessert all beautifully presented on a tray. As someone who likes to eat her hot dishes hot, this was a bit of an issue. Impossible really. Unless I wanted to eat really quickly – which I didn’t. But the meal was good none-the-less. I enjoy food at markets far more than a big sit down meal. It’s likely because I’m not a big eater and prefer to eat small amounts of food throughout the day. For this, the…

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  CruiseSource

• Social Media & Travel: @DeltaAssist Making a Customer for Life

  Rich Tucker

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:39 pm

  Being a social media travel geek… I wanted to share this cool video showing a travel related brand using Twitter to “make a customer for life”. Unfortunately, it is rare to see companies engaging in conversation with their customers or potential customers on Twitter.  Too many times, businesses on Twitter just use it to push out information.  So, I’m excited to spotlight an example of a travel brand [Delta Airlines], not just engaging on Twitter but using it as an opportunity to completely WOW their customer. Outside of the great use of Social Media… another…

• 10 Tips for First Time Singles Cruisers

  vmeeuwsen

  7 Feb 2012 | 7:24 pm

  Singles Volleyball match on deck If you ask most singles, the idea of taking a singles cruise vacation for the first time can seem both exciting and also a bit daunting.  They are not sure what to expect and probably wonder what kind of people will be in their singles group and if they will have anything in common with any of them.  For the best advice and recommendations for first time cruisers, we recently reached out to our repeat singles cruise clients on our SinglesCruise.com Facebook page. Here are the top ten tips they offered up to make the most of your singles cruise vacation:…

• This Week in Cruise Deals: Free Prepaid Gratuities Sale + Royal Romance

  MLester

  3 Feb 2012 | 10:10 am

  This Week’s Handpicked Cruise Deals Royal Caribbean Month of Romance Offer Royal Caribbean is celebrating February as the “month of romance” by offering a FREE romance package on select sailings. Receive a bottle of champagne, chocolate covered strawberries and ½ dozen roses. What a great way to make your cruise vacation even more special. This free package is available on 6-nt or longer Royal Caribbean cruises to Bermuda and Europe departing after March 15th, booked between February 1st and February 29th. Of course, I had to do some research and pick out my favorite deal from this…

• Small Ships – Are they the way to go?

  Alysia

  2 Feb 2012 | 8:19 pm

  Regent Seven Seas Voyager It’s the question we are asked over and over again. “Should I take a large ship or a small ship?”  Typically cruise lines with large ships tend to have lots of extra activities such as rock climbing walls and big screen TVs over the pool deck that simply wouldn’t fit on a small ship. Whereas cruise lines with small ships tend to boast more space, cuisine and better service. So which is right for you? Cruise Specialists reporter, Ralph Grizzle, who states he likes a “bit of both” cites the BIG differences you will see when travelling on a…

• Is a transatlantic crossing right for you?

  BarryFisher

  29 Jan 2012 | 5:04 pm

  A Transatlantic Crossing -The phrase is evocative of the Golden Age of Ocean Travel. The images it brings to mind – Luxury liners gliding across serene seas beneath starry skies – seem remote from our current reality of travel, tightly packed in polished aluminum tubes, high above waves that appear as tiny specks upon the sea. Yet, it doesn’t have to be this way. If you are willing to trade eight hectic hours in the air for eight dreamy days at sea, then a transatlantic crossing is the way to go. You’ll enjoy endless ocean vistas while lounging on deck, contemplating the way early…

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  Europe a la Carte Travel Blog

• 25 Things to Do in Spain

  karen@europealacarte.co.uk

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:01 am

  Sunny Spain is a very popular holiday destination in Europe and it’s a country you can easily return to multiple times since there are so many different parts of it to explore. Figuring out where to go, in fact, is the biggest problem with visiting Spain! We’ve put together 25 travel tips on what to do in Spain, spread across the country, to give you plenty of ideas for your next trip. Climb the Maspalomas Dunes You can have fun climbing and then sliding down the Maspalmos Dunes on the island of Gran Canaria. Karen has more tips on beautiful Gran Canaria beaches. Maspalomas Dunes…

• Premier Inn Now Offer 30 Minutes Free WiFi

  karen@europealacarte.co.uk

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:56 pm

  Premier Inn is now offering guests 30 minutes of free WiFi per day in all of their UK hotels.  I phoned Premier Inn to ask if the 30 minutes free WiFi is per room or per guest and they told me it’s per guest and that guests will be given a code on check-in to redeem the free access. Premier Inn have also reduced the cost of WiFi for guests who need to spend more than 30 minutes online to £3 for 24 hours, £10 for one week, £20 for one month and £125 for 12 months. Typical Premier Inn room I assume that Premier Inn’s decision has, to some degree, been taken in response to their…

• Exploring Europe Through Wine

  karen@europealacarte.co.uk

  6 Feb 2012 | 1:09 am

  The vineyards and wine cellars of Europe are great tourist attractions and I can understand why – try some new wine, perhaps have a tasty meal and enjoy a good view while you’re there. When I lived in southern Germany, I thoroughly enjoyed having easy access to a variety of vineyards. Here at Europe a la Carte we’ve published serveral posts about European wine so I’ve put together this compilation of travel tips to help you explore Europe through wine. Vineyards near Heilbronn in Germany by Amanda Kendle France You probably won’t be surprised to hear that the…

• 25 Things to Do in the Netherlands

  karen@europealacarte.co.uk

  2 Feb 2012 | 1:01 am

  For a small country, the Netherlands, often (incorrectlly) known as Holland,  has many features which are well-known throughout the world: tulips, windmills and cheeses, just to name a few, and not to mention one of the most famous capital cities in the world in Amsterdam. It’s a great place to travel because everything is nearby and the public transport is great, too – or if you’re more energetic, cycling around is very practical. Here are our travel tips for 25 things to do in the Netherlands to inspire you to plan a Dutch holiday soon. The Peace Palace in The Hague…

• 10 Places to Visit in Slovakia

  karen@europealacarte.co.uk

  30 Jan 2012 | 1:03 am

  I spent a fantastic year living in Bratislava, but it’s not the capital of Slovakia that I’m going to tell you about today – instead, I’ve compiled a list of travel tips on what to do in Slovakia which are located outside of Bratislava. It’s still a relatively little-known country on the tourist trail but there is so much to see and do and I’d encourage you to get there soon. Bojnice Castle A decent day trip from Bratislava gets you to Bojnice Castle – a particularly picturesque castle dating back to the 12th century and rumoured to have inspired…

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  Intelligent Travel

• China’s Wild West

  Annie Fitzsimmons

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:43 am

  By Annie Fitzsimmons “Welcome to the Wild West of China,” my guide said as we touched down in Lijiang after a 4-hour flight from Shanghai. Though I didn’t yet spot any cowboy boots, I was indeed far west in the Yunnan province, at the foothills of the Himalaya; bordered by Laos, Vietnam, and Burma. Impressions of Lijiang performance (Photo: Annie Fitzsimmons) For an instant introduction to the region, I attended a performance of “Impressions of Lijiang,” with the sacred Jade Dragon Mountain looming behind the outdoor theater.  It is truly a spectacle of local…

• Getting Lost on Florida’s “Forgotten” Coast

  Christopher Elliott

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:30 pm

  St. George Island, Fla., is in the middle of nowhere. And that’s the way they like it. Why else would they call this area, along the northeastern part of Florida’s panhandle, the “forgotten” coast? It is remote, undeveloped and, at this time of year, no one’s here. Oh, wait. I should have said, no tourists. Out in the flat-as-glass Apalachicola Bay every morning, we found dozens of oyster boats quietly harvesting the famous shellfish from the shallow sea floor. They say it gets busy during the summer, but it’s a different kind of busy than frenetic Panama…

• I Heart My City: Jennifer’s Abu Dhabi

  I Heart My City

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:57 am

  Jennifer Garcia-Alonso is co-founder of The Purple Passport, a web-based collection of chic, one-stop-shop guides to experiencing the world’s cities in style. She is a New Yorker who has been living in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, for the past three years (which we think qualifies her as a local at this point). Check out Jennifer’s take on her home away from home, then leave a comment below if you have anything to add. Abu Dhabi is My City The first place I take a visitor from out of town is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural wonder. It is the largest…

• The Radar: Islands Made for Valentine’s Day, Barcelona Freebies, How to Enjoy the Australian Outback

  Elaura Rifkin

  8 Feb 2012 | 8:20 am

  Just because they’re free doesn’t mean they’re not beautiful. Five places in Barcelona you can enjoy without spending a dime (or a Euro). [Amateur Traveler] The Outback isn’t just a great spot for spotting kangaroos. Experience the beauty that Australia’s Northern Territory has to offer. [Matador Network] Just in time for Valentine’s Day: Check out these four heart-shaped islands. [LA Times] Got Radar? Follow us on Twitter @NatGeoTraveler and tag your favorite travel stories from the web #ngtradar. Check back in the morning for our daily roundup. Photo: Kahouli Jawher/My Shot

• Photos: Where You Went

  Intelligent Travel

  7 Feb 2012 | 12:59 pm

  Our readers boast impressive travel résumés. That’s why we ask you the same question on Facebook every Friday: Where are you traveling this weekend? See photos of where you — or readers like you — went, and get inspired to plan your next trip. Want to share your photos with the National Geographic community? Upload your favorites (don’t forget to add a caption, or we won’t know where you went) to Your Shot/Travel at ngm.com/yourshot. Tag all your submissions #travelshot, then look for your photos online in one of our My Shot galleries or here on the blog.

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  Shannon Hurst Lane

• Adventures in Social Media at Women in Media of Baton Rouge

  Shannon

  9 Feb 2012 | 6:04 am

  The above quote says it all, because I didn’t get here alone. Yesterday I had the pleasure of speaking to Women in Media in the Baton Rouge area. I always enjoy sharing the story of how my life path led me to travel writing and exploring the world. The audience included media personalities, marketing professional, and others from south Louisiana. The best part was getting to meet a few Twitter friends in real life. It had been a while since I had spoken in front of a group, so I was suitably nervous, but a few ladies spoke to me beforehand about how they weren’t planning on…

• The Autos Rule Super Bowl

  Shannon

  1 Feb 2012 | 6:06 pm

  My inbox has been bombarded by a slew of automotive commercials set to air during the Super Bowl this year. I have to admit, I’ve enjoyed watching them. Here’s a preview of what you’ll see airing during Super Bowl 46 in Indianapolis. Ferris Bueller Redux – Oh the nostalgia! It was cute to see “Matthew’s Day Off” even if it is to promote the 2012 Honda CR-V. The nods to the classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” brought me back to my middle school days, where I so wanted to play hooky like Ferris Bueller. RedBugg II’s appearance…

• My Famous Neighbor

  Shannon

  30 Jan 2012 | 5:10 am

  Paige Bowers. I heard this name for years from Donna K. Smith, a luxury hotel and destinations PR fabulouso. Donna couldn’t believe Paige and I had never met, and she was sure we would just love each other. Two summers ago new neighbors moved in across the street. I stepped over to welcome them to the neighborhood, and asked all the nosey questions I do of everyone I meet. Within a few minutes, Donna’s name came up, sealing our immediate friendship. It was Fate. Kismet. It was THE Paige Bowers. Here we are, many wine bottles, laughs, and a few tears later. I was taking a bubble…

• Twitter Censorship

  Shannon

  28 Jan 2012 | 12:05 pm

  The Associated Press recently released this story regarding Twitter and censorship. A few bloggers and social media personalities give their take on this issue. What are your thoughts?

• About that tattoo

  Shannon

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:18 am

  A few years ago I began to entertain the idea of getting a small tattoo. The decision to have something permanently etched on my body isn’t something that was spur of the moment. I have two teenagers for goodness sake. This past weekend I was feeling melancholy and missing my Alabama relatives, who I haven’t seen since July. I decided to trek across the southern US in my 2012 VW Beetle for a good visit and some of my grandmother’s comfort cooking. My mom tagged along for the ride. We loaded the car with Louisiana Mardi Gras goodness in the form of King Cakes, Abita Mardi…

• 

  Travel Rants

• Airlines transparent ‘administration fees’ are a joke

  Darren Cronian

  14 Jan 2012 | 8:52 am

  Earlier this morning I read on Europe a la Carte that EasyJet has ditched its free fee payment option for passengers using the Visa Electron card and now charges £9 administration fee for all debit cards payments. What has annoyed me though is that this move is supposedly to improve the transparency of surcharges for [...]This post was syndicated from the Travel Rants Consumer Blog. Airlines transparent ‘administration fees’ are a joke

• Air Passenger Duty to increase in April 2012

  Darren Cronian

  30 Nov 2011 | 10:45 am

  I am sat here wondering if the UK government gives a damn about tourism, or, do they even want the electorate to leave the country – frustration for travel consumers as we face more expensive holidays after the Chancellor announced that the Air Passenger Duty (APD) increase will go ahead as planned in April next [...]This post was syndicated from the Travel Rants Consumer Blog. Air Passenger Duty to increase in April 2012

• Advice for passengers affected by airport strikes

  Darren Cronian

  28 Nov 2011 | 7:20 am

  Quite a lot of buzz this morning about the announcement that airport operator, BAA have warned passengers of delays of up to 12 hours on flights coming into London Heathrow on Wednesday 30 November. This has meant a number of airlines have cancelled flights or reduced services. News on other UK airports I spent some [...]This post was syndicated from the Travel Rants Consumer Blog. Advice for passengers affected by airport strikes

• Thomas Cook financial troubles: don’t panic!

  Darren Cronian

  22 Nov 2011 | 2:05 pm

  As expected today I received a flurry of emails from consumers worrying about their holiday or concerns about booking a holiday with Europe’s second biggest tour operator, Thomas Cook, who are reportedly asking banks for an extra £100m to add to a debt that was £900m in September this year. Tough times for travel industry [...]This post was syndicated from the Travel Rants Consumer Blog. Thomas Cook financial troubles: don’t panic!

• No surprise that domestic holidays go uninsured

  Darren Cronian

  30 Oct 2011 | 6:09 pm

  I dislike the term ‘Staycation’ and I don’t trust ‘consumer surveys’ when they are being used to promote travel products, but a recent press release from Columbus Direct caught my attention because it highlighted that 55% of domestic holidays are uninsured. To be honest, I am surprised that figure is not higher. Need for travel [...]This post was syndicated from the Travel Rants Consumer Blog. No surprise that domestic holidays go uninsured

• 

  The Art of Non-Conformity » 3×5

• What to Do About Those People Who Sidetracked Your Life

  Chris Guillebeau

  9 Feb 2012 | 6:30 am

  This article doesn’t have much to do with travel hacking or unconventional work. And in fact, it will only apply to a minority of the people who read it. If you’ve always had a great life and nothing truly unfair has ever happened to you, feel free to skip this one. There’s lots of other great reading out there elsewhere. But for the rest of you—this one goes out to everyone who has had terrible things happen to them that weren’t their fault. I had a list of examples here that I thought fit the subject. But then I took out the list, because who am I to judge what is terrible and…

• The Feeling of the Entire Day Unfolding Around You

  Chris Guillebeau

  6 Feb 2012 | 10:45 am

  In JFK I got on the 16-hour Cathay Pacific flight to Hong Kong. It was 3pm in the New York afternoon, and 3am in HKG—exactly halfway around the world. The Boeing 777 took off, I had lunch, and I took a short nap. I always set my watch to the destination time when boarding a flight, so it was now sunrise in Hong Kong… with 13 hours to go. What’s next? I like long flights, but this was pushing it even for me. I had the whole day set out before me, with nowhere to go and nothing much to do except what I made for myself. I ordered coffee and sparkling water, then set up shop and got…

• Questions and Answers on Travel Hacking

  Chris Guillebeau

  2 Feb 2012 | 9:55 am

  A few weeks ago I mentioned I had created a page on the site that lists current airline mileage credit card bonuses. With just a couple of new cards, you can earn 100,000 miles or more—and then book round-trip plane tickets all over the world. Much to my surprise, card bonuses have continued to get better and better over the past couple of years. It’s never been easier to earn a large stash of points or miles that you can quickly convert to plane tickets and hotel stays. I’ve now created a whole minisite to serve as a free resource for those who are interested. We’ll keep…

• World Domination Summit: Final Wave of Tickets

  Chris Guillebeau

  31 Jan 2012 | 12:19 pm

  *World Domination Summit: Final Ticket Sales* Earlier this morning we opened the final wave of ticket sales for WDS 2012. We sold out all 400 remaining tickets immediately (well, in 9 minutes), but due to various transaction errors, about 80 tickets were put back in the queue. These tickets are now available on a first-come, first served basis here –> #WDS2012 Registration UPDATE: All tickets are now gone. *** Here are a few answers to questions I’ve received: Can you stream the event online for those who can’t come? No, sorry. I love the internet, but #WDS is all about…

• Intentions, Decisions, and Outcomes

  Chris Guillebeau

  30 Jan 2012 | 6:28 am

  I recently posted a question to readers about what to do in an uncertain airport situation. This was the scenario: You arrive very late at an airport you haven’t been to before. Security takes forever, but the flight is on time—which means you’re even more rushed. You walk into the terminal and look for your gate: A70. Damn… you’re currently at A18. Above you is an “Express Train” that runs between A1 and A75 with an unknown number of intermediate stops. You know if you take the escalator up to the train and catch a ride it could be faster—but remember, you’re unfamiliar…

• 

  Hawaii Vacation Advice - GoVisitHawaii.com

• Review: Hilton Waikoloa Village Resort on Hawaii’s Big Island

  sheila

  8 Feb 2012 | 10:34 am

  Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island is a massive resort.  How big is it? The resort sprawls over 62 beautiful oceanfront acres. That’s big! Some folks describe the Hilton Waikoloa Village as Disney-esque with the tram and boat rides that transport guests throughout the resort. Though we found it fairly walkable from one end to the other. Of course the tropical landscaping and corridors of artwork and artifacts certainly provide eye candy as you move about. Location This Hilton resort is located about 30 minutes north of Kona airport in Waikoloa Beach…

• Off the Road to Hana at Keanae Peninsula

  sheila

  7 Feb 2012 | 10:34 am

  A short drive to Keanae Peninsula is definitely worth the diversion off the Road to Hana. The paved drive down to this peninsula leads you to the ocean’s edge for amazing views of the Hana coast. You’ll find the turn to Keanae Peninsula on the ocean (makai) side of the Road to Hana between mile markers 16 and 17. (It’s closest to mile marker). The turn is at a the bend of a hair pin curve, so drive slowly so you don’t miss the turn. View Larger Map I’ve been to Keanae Peninsula in both morning and afternoon sun. I think it’s particularly beautiful during afternoon sun, but…

• Hawaiian Vanilla Farm Tour & Lunch

  sheila

  6 Feb 2012 | 10:45 am

  Vanilla (orchid) growing on a hapu'u fern Vanilla has the reputation for being, well, somewhat bland, but did you know that vanilla is quite a fascinating plant? Vanilla is actually an orchid that only blooms for one day. If the orchid is to produce a vanilla bean, it must very carefully hand pollenated on that one day of blooming.  I learned these interesting facts while visiting the Hawaiian Vanilla Company for lunch and a tour. Though learning about vanilla is interesting in itself, the owner Jim Reddekopp weaves a family love story into his presentation about vanilla and how he came…

• Aloha Friday Photo: Banzai Pipeline

  sheila

  3 Feb 2012 | 10:34 am

  Mahalo to Lisa Eichinger for sharing her photo of Ehukai Beach Park. This North Shore Oahu spot is where the famous Banzai Pipeline surfing spot is. For such a popular beach park, notice how pristine and peaceful this beach looks. Lisa definitely found a beautiful scene to share with us. We’re on facebook! Please click here to join us. © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com.

• Hawaii Vacation Deals & News: February 2, 2012

  sheila

  2 Feb 2012 | 9:55 am

  *  Congratulations to Four Seasons Resort Lanai Lodge at Koele for making the top 10 list of US hotels by U.S. News & World Report. The Lodge secured the second highest ranking. We at Go Visit Hawaii love the Lodge at Koele as you can see from our review. Pssst! Here’s a secret – it’s one of the top luxury values in all of Hawaii. With their third night free offer, rates start at just $207 per night! *  Do you have a favorite Hawaiian Island, beach, hotel, luau or activity that you think is tops? GoHawaii.About.com wants your nominations! *  By popular demand, the…

• 

  Happy Hotelier

• The Pearl Earring by Dorothee Golz

  GJE

  2 Feb 2012 | 7:15 am

  As the original is here in The Hague: The Pearl Earring by Dorothee Golz Can you tell us a little bit about your interest in the portraits you decided to use in your work? Was there something specific about them that worked well with the message of your work, or did you choose them because of their iconic recognisability? In the first instance I chose these paintings due to their photorealistic quality. The pictures almost look like arranged photos- take my image of Girl at the Window for example: the photo pretends to be the painting The Girl with the Pearl Earring by Vermeer, just as his…

• Dutch Queen Beatrix turns 74!

  GJE

  31 Jan 2012 | 8:42 am

  Today Queen Beatrix of The Netherlands turned 74. Happy Birthday to our Majesty! These two beautiful photos (from ANP) were taken a while ago when she visited a mosque in a Muslim country. Off course our peroxide blond parliamentarian asked the question why she made a political statement by covering her hat with a shawl. Luckily, according to certain polls, the guy lost 3 seats in Dutch Parliament after he’d posed the question on twitter. Dutch Queen Beatrix turns 74! is a post from: Happy Hotelier. Would you like to subscribe to my newsfeed, or my weekly newsletter?

• Honeymoon Suite Whirpool for Two

  GJE

  18 Jan 2012 | 7:31 pm

  Seedy, stylish, romantic or just fun this Whirlpool for 2 in your honeymoonsuite? Its in an all inclusive couples only resort in the Pocono Mountains PA, USA. Toast your romance with a sensual soak in the world-exclusive, 7-foot tall Champagne Glass Whirlpool Bath-for-Two. Set on Pocono Palace’s golf course, The Roman Towers are designed in a Grand Roman theme with floor to ceiling columns, stunning arches, vaulted ceilings, covered walkways and a private, arched underpass for parking. A cathedral window offers a panoramic view of Pocono Palace’s lush surrounding landscape. Via the Roman…

• What are You Thinking About? (2) – Carly’s Voice | Changing the World of Autism

  GJE

  18 Jan 2012 | 6:28 am

  Health, Precarious Health! I’m really happy with a healthy wife, two healthy kids and two healthy grand kids. Today somebody I follow on Twitter pointed me to this amazing Youtube video about Carly, an autistic Canadian girl who couldn’t speak, but eventually found a way to express herself, just by typing on a notebook. She finally was able to show she is far from backward. We now can know what she is thinking. I’m happy for her and she is an example for many other people out there including the “experts” who have to do with autism. Also it reminds me that people…

• What are You Thinking About? (1) – Lateral Thinking

  GJE

  13 Jan 2012 | 6:36 am

  Introduction I have a very associative mind. I see something and think of a totally different thing by association. Usually most of my relatives and friends totally fail to understand my associations at all. Obviously they need a decoder. I’ve honed my associative capabilities after reading a book from Edward De Bono. He is a business guru who had his hey days in 70ies and 80ies, but seems still alive and kicking. Lateral Thinking, he teaches will enhance your creativity. For me the Internet is a great tool to help me broaden my associations and creativity. Photo’s or images are a…

• 

  Have Kids Will Travel

• Australia For Budget-Minded Families

  Editor

  31 Jan 2012 | 8:29 am

  The glorious Gold Coast of the east. The towering Uluru in the arid centre. The glittering marine life of Queensland. The bustling streets and elegant architecture of Sydney. No doubt about it — Australia is a country with endless appeal to tourists. And that includes families who want to get an authentic Down Under experience without [...]

• Family Fun in Scotland

  Editor

  30 Jan 2012 | 11:27 am

  Keeping kids entertained on holiday is one of the most difficult tasks known to man. They often get bored and restless very easily. Luckily, that won’t be the case if you visit Scotland, as there’s plenty to do and see, especially during half-term or the summer holidays. Scotland has a number of child-friendly attractions to [...]

• Golf Getaways for Romantics

  Editor

  14 Nov 2011 | 10:09 am

  Not many people will have mentioned the words ‘golf’ and ‘romance’ in the same sentence and got a positive response from their partners. Well, they might be pleasantly surprised to discover that there is a wide range of golf holidays abroad available around the world that specialise not only in the sport itself but also [...]

• Cyprus: A Mediterranean Gem

  Editor

  10 Oct 2011 | 8:38 pm

  Looking for something a bit different for your next family holiday? Then why not try Cyprus, one of the Mediterranean’s lesser-known gems? The combination of beautiful seaside towns with hilly countryside means that you can have more than a standard holiday on the beach and can explore the hidden marvels of Cyprus’s rich history. If [...]

• Add Ski Classes to Your Next Family Getaway

  Editor

  6 Oct 2011 | 10:33 am

  Teaching your children a new sport can be one of the most rewarding activities in the world, especially if it is a sport which you enjoy. As winter draws near there has never been a better time to teach your children how to ski and the options are endless. By taking your children on a [...]

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  Global Travel News

• Unusual Winter Holiday Destinations

  2 Feb 2012 | 1:13 pm

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• Unusual Holidays: Travelling to Antarctica

  25 Oct 2011 | 12:32 pm

  A traditional holiday often involves a trip to the beach during the summer season or a skiing lodge during winter. These holiday activities take full advantage of the weather because they perfectly complement specific destinations around the world. But as tourists become too familiar with these destinations, they start to ask for more. This is the reason why near-space travel is experiencing

• Hotel in Ruins after Red Flag Stamp

  13 Oct 2011 | 12:16 pm

  Deborah Sinclair is experiencing firsthand the effects of a ruined online reputation. Her hotel, Riverside Hotel and Restaurant in Evesham, Worcs, is currently experiencing drastic decline in bookings because of an unintended bad reputation by a travel website. TripAdvisor is one of the largest travel websites in the world that specialize in collecting customer reviews of destinations, hotels

• The Weirdest Island in the World - Socotra

  29 Sep 2011 | 5:13 am

  The most popular tourist destination in Yemen is also one of the most isolated islands in archipelagos in the world. The Socotra Archipelago is a group of islands that are part of Yemen although it’s a lot closer to Somalia in the Indian Ocean. Even though Socotra is an archipelago, the largest island represents more than 90% of the archipelago’s landmass. The popularity of Socotra is not

• UK Airport to Test Lie Detector

  21 Sep 2011 | 12:38 pm

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  TravelingMamas.com

• The Dos and Don’ts of Visiting Fort McHenry, Maryland

  edVAcationMama

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:18 am

        I am not a history buff. In school I passed, but I guess I’m just not that much into learning from books compared to when I’m traveling with my kids. I love being put into the books, living out the story, and connecting the lessons of my youth. Seeing my kids learn and experience is an added bonus.  Here are 5 tips for a mom to enjoy and experience Fort McHenry. History buff or not, this is a must stop in Maryland. 1. Do: Spring the 8 dollars to see the movie about the place that inspired the National Anthem. The movie is filled with facts and special effects and even has a…

• A Dream Family Vacation for Less with @HomeAway

  CajunMama

  7 Feb 2012 | 7:54 am

  Brought to you by Most families dream of taking a vacation full of fun bonding that won’t break the bank. When I was growing up, my parents made sure that we always had a week together each summer. We would get a condo or house at the beach, sometimes with other families, and it would be a magical week of sun, swimming, and no worries. Now that I have my own family, we’ve continued the tradition of an annual family vacation. I’m always searching for destinations and lodging that offers a good value without compromising all our needs. One of our favorite destinations is the Northwest…

• Romantic Destinations for Valentines

  CajunMama

  30 Jan 2012 | 7:35 pm

  I’m a romantic at heart and love to hear stories of couples stealing away for a few days of romance. In fact, my travel writing career began by writing about romantic destinations and honeymoons. One thing many couples forget as they become parents, is that one day their kids will grow up and its just the two of them again. Just because you are parents doesn’t mean romance should go flying out the window. There are a few elements that make a place romantic in my book. There has to be a touch of luxury, with plush bedding, a big bathtub, a shower for two. There has to be Champagne…

• Why Now is the Best Time to Take a Cruise

  CajunMama

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:34 am

  TravelingMamas.com sends thoughts and prayers to the crew and passengers involved in the Costa Concordia accident. For recent updates from Costa Cruises, visit the official site. I was looking at the itinerary for the Carnival Breeze, set to launch in June of this year, when I saw the news about the Costa Concordia. Any time tragedy occurs, especially in the travel industry, consumers and the experts begin to criticize safety, and they analyze what could have or should have been done in the circumstances. One thing I’ve noticed about these types of events is that safety and security…

• Clearly, a good deal in Florida

  RollingMama

  21 Jan 2012 | 10:09 am

  Beat the winter blahs with a tranquil trip to sunny Florida. Travelers booking a flight plus hotel vacation package for four or more nights to St. Petersburg or Clearwater beaches can save $100 per reservation. Use code SUN100 when booking a flight and hotel on Southwest Airlines Vacations. Choose a participating hotel and receive one night free. Save as much as $120 per person roundtrip with the Bags Fly Free–even golf bags. Vacations must be booked between now and February 9, 2012, (6 pm CST). Trip must be taken between January 14 and May 25, 2012. Black out dates apply and one day…

• 

  Everything Everywhere: Around the World Travel Blog

• Photo Essay – Switzerland

  Amy

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:11 pm

  Prior to setting out in 2007, I explored the world on the maps of Risk and Axis and Allies. Via dice rolling and troop movements I was able to explore most of the world, but there was also one place I couldn’t go: Switzerland. It was a big greyed out area on the map where I could never move my plastic units. When I was invited to Switzerland in the summer of 2011 I jumped at the chance to go. It was a country I have always been fascinated by. During my trip I visited the cities of Bern, Basel and Zurich. I left Switzerland with a desire to return, which I will be doing later this year.

• The Great Laxey Wheel on the Isle of Man

  Gary

  8 Feb 2012 | 6:41 pm

  The Great Laxey Wheel on the Isle of Man Originally posted on the Everything Everywhere Travel Blog. Discover great travel quotes.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site #173: Old and New Towns of Edinburgh

  Gary

  7 Feb 2012 | 6:07 pm

  UNESCO World Heritage Site #173: Old and New Towns of Edinburgh From the World Heritage inscription: Edinburgh has been the Scottish capital since the 15th century. It has two distinct areas: the Old Town, dominated by a medieval fortress; and the neoclassical New Town, whose development from the 18th century onwards had a far-reaching influence on European urban planning. The harmonious juxtaposition of these two contrasting historic areas, each with many important buildings, is what gives the city its unique character. The remarkable juxtaposition of two clearly articulated urban planning…

• Why I Am Not One Lucky Bastard

  Gary

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:03 am

  One Lucky Bastard?One common thread I’ve noticed when people interact with me is that they will often refer to me as being “lucky”. “You are so lucky to be able to travel that much!” “You are so lucky to have visited Fiji!” “You are so lucky to have gone to the Rugby World Cup!” With my latest trip to Antarctica the “lucky” cries have grown even louder. I understand that no one intends to be disrespectful when they say I’m lucky, but I want to make it clear that luck has nothing to do with it. Luck implies some sort of…

• UNESCO World Heritage Site #172: New Lanark

  Gary

  6 Feb 2012 | 6:15 pm

  UNESCO World Heritage Site #172: New Lanark From the World Heritage inscription: When Richard Arkwright’s new factory system for textile production was brought to New Lanark the need to provide housing and other facilities for the workers and managers was recognized. It was there that Robert Owen created a model for industrial communities that was to spread across the world in the 19th and 20th centuries. New Lanark saw the construction not only of well designed and equipped workers’ housing but also public buildings designed to improve their spiritual as well as their physical…

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  Vagabondish

• Human-Like Sculptures Cause Controversy Around the World

  Melanie Chamberlain

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:00 pm

  Mark Jenkins Installation / Pictoplasma 2011 ©MatiasR Artist Mark Jenkins has spent the last few years travelling the world and installing his controversial life-like sculptures. Civilians have been so shocked by his sculptures that they’ve called the ambulance and police to help what they thought were real struggling or dead people. Perhaps the most controversal installation was in October last year at the Dublin Contemporary 2011 event. Jenkins placed a sculpture of a blonde girl and other figures stepping onto the ledge of a building. The work was installed during Suicide Awareness…

• NYC Hotel Maids Armed With ‘Panic Buttons’

  Heather Bond

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:00 pm

  Hotel room © The Doyle Collection In a move that brings new meaning to the “housekeeping” knock on the door, New York hotel maids are now being aided with security devices. While the security measure hasn’t been linked to French politician Dominique Strauss-Kahn’s accused incident with a hotel maid last May, the panic-button devices are now included as a requirement to a new union contract. The contract provision says the employees must be given devices to be carried on their persons at work, which they can quickly and easily activate to summon prompt assistance to…

• Times Square Celebrates Love This February

  Melanie Chamberlain

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:00 am

  Times Square ©Bernt Rostad Times Square is embracing Valentine’s Day with a month-long celebration dubbed “Free Love in Times Square.” This month couples can renew their vows in the square. Also, couples can they can declare their love at the Crossroads of the World, and the declaration will be projected on a flashing digital billboard for the crowds in the square to witness. Couples who declare their love will also be entered in a second honeymoon sweepstakes. The Times Square Alliance has also commissioned a public Valentine sculpture for the center of the square for…

• How Travel Can Make You a More Romantic Partner

  Amanda Kendle

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:37 am

  I believe travel can change you in many positive ways and just one of the many is that it can make you a more romantic partner. Forget about memorising poetry books or learning to cook your partner’s favourite meal – just hit the road, get traveling and you will learn how to be as romantic as your partner could ever imagine! Here’s how: Knowing About Romantic Places Romance is a bit like real estate – location, location, location. Once you’ve traveled the world a little, you’ll build up a collection of romantic places to add to whatever story you may want to tell your partner.

• Photo of the Moment: Finding Our Path, Austria

  Mike Richard

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am

  © Matthias Rhomberg

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  The Amateur Traveler Travel Podcast - best places to travel

• Book Review – Travel Safety

  DavidElwood

  6 Feb 2012 | 1:00 pm

  Craig Bidois is the Director of Fearfree Security, a consulting company specializing in International safety and security. He has teamed up with Craig Martin, one half of the Indie Travel Podcast team, [...]Related Posts Book Review: “How to Travel the World on $50 a Day” by Matt Kepnes Book Review – “The Backpacker” by John Harris Book Review – “White Sails Became Me”

• Terracotta Horses – Xi’an China – Daily Photo

  chris2x

  5 Feb 2012 | 11:29 pm

  When Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, had his workers construct a terracotta army for him at Xi’an China, they did not construct infantry only but also cavalry, chariots [...]Related Posts Terracotta Archer – Xi’an, China – Daily Photo Terracotta Warriors (World’s Biggest Jigzaw Puzzle) – Xi’an, China – Daily Photo Terra Cotta Horseman – Xi’an, China – Daily Photo

• 5 must-see sights when you visit Australia

  TrentBuen

  5 Feb 2012 | 8:40 pm

  When you think of Australia, the first places to come to mind are the most well known, like Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Ayres Rock. There’s no doubt that Australia [...]Related Posts Traveling to Australia – Episode 2 Being an American Expat in Australia: The Ups and Downs Travel to Melbourne, Australia – Episode 261

• Travel to Trinidad and Tobago – Episode 314

  chris2x

  4 Feb 2012 | 9:30 am

  The Amateur Traveler talks to JD Andrews about his recent trip to Trinidad and Tobago. JD, who used to work for a cruise line, has visited many of the islands of the [...]Related Posts Travel to the Island of Dominica – Episode 146 Travel to Barbados – Episode 109 Travel to St. Kitts – Episode 303

• This Week in Travel wins Award from North American Travel Journalists Association

  chris2x

  2 Feb 2012 | 9:17 am

  I heard from Gary Arndt this week that This Week in Travel which is the podcast Gary, Jen Leo and I produce has just won an award from the North American Travel [...]Related Posts Nominated for a Podcast Award Amateur Traveler Nominated for a Podcast Award Amateur Traveler named one of 10 "Best Looking Travel Blogs" by Tripbase.com

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  elliott.org

• The Insider: How should I buy my next cruise?

  Christopher Elliott

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:00 pm

  Not so long ago, you had to pick up a phone and call your local travel agent to book a cruise. No longer.

• TSA lost my hat — how do I get it back?

  Christopher Elliott

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:00 pm

  Bill Marcolongo lost his hat when he was flying from Philadelphia to Anchorage last year. Or, more to the point, he thinks the TSA lost it.

• The Insider: Should I take a cruise?

  Christopher Elliott

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:53 pm

  The world of travel used to be divided into two groups: People who cruised -- and people who didn't.

• I have a seat but I don’t have a seat assignment

  Christopher Elliott

  7 Feb 2012 | 11:00 pm

  If you have a seat on a plane, shouldn't you also have a seat assignment?

• Did United Airlines do enough for mystery meat victim?

  Christopher Elliott

  7 Feb 2012 | 12:00 am

  Something happened to Steve Mukherjee on his recent flight from Accra, Ghana, to Washington -- something that even to this day makes him "sick to my stomach."

• 

  Articles for T+L Magazine

• T+L Design Awards 2012

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:10 am

• Most Relaxing U.S. Resorts

  8 Feb 2012 | 5:25 pm

• Most Relaxing U.S. Resorts

  8 Feb 2012 | 4:37 pm

  <p>Escape to one of these fresh-air resorts where you can unplug with scientific spa treatments, wellness classes, and long walks on a private beach.</p>

• How to Avoid Luggage Theft

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:45 pm

• How to Avoid Luggage Theft

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:37 am

  <p>As if paying to check your bags weren’t bad enough, you also run the risk of pilferage. But there are ways to keep your valuables secure.</p>

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  Top news for Digg Travel Newsroom

• Sunrise in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah (Pic)

  Digg

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:07 pm

• Why San Francisco hates Los Angeles

  Digg

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:33 pm

  I will pacify the haters and unify both So- and NorCals under PanCalifornianism!

• 5 Real Places Plucked Straight Out of Fairy Tales

  Digg

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  Ever play Mario and want to hop in the toilet? Well, the following are just as cool outright fantasy locations that are just plane tickets away (and cleaner).

• The Top 10 Best Holiday Weather Destinations

  Digg

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:33 pm

  If you’re British, the chances are you like going on holiday (and if you’re not British, the chances are that you don’t). Britain’s not known for its

• The Enthralling Gaudy Kempinski Hotel, Beijing

  Digg

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:46 am

  The Hotel provides un matched and endless enticing activities, vibrant facilities and appealing facilities In the accommodations, dining and conference halls of the elite Kempinski Hotel.

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  Soul Travelers 3

• Travel Schooling - Learning Through Travel

  Soul Travelers3

  7 Feb 2012 | 11:10 am

  Travel Schooling - Learning Through Travel Road schooling, World schooling, homeschooling, unschooling...no matter what you call it Road schooling, World schooling, homeschooling, unschooling...no matter what you call it, I think our family has more experience at it than most on the planet since we've been traveling the world non-stop since our child was five and now she is eleven. I am still astounded by how rich her education has been on just $23/day as we've traveled to 43 countries on 5 continents. Lucky kid! We'd never be able to give her all this without our travel lifestyle. It's also…

• Beautiful Capitola - California's Oldest Beach

  Soul Travelers3

  3 Feb 2012 | 9:42 am

  Beautiful Capitola - California's Oldest Beach One of the most charming and family friendly beaches in California One of the most charming and family friendly beaches in California is also the oldest beach in the state and one of our fave places on the planet...Capitola! You can see the colorful and  iconic Venetian Court built in 1924 along with the wharf in this photo of Capitola beach. It was voted by Sunset Magazine as one of the best beach locations on the California coast. It's popular with the elites of Silicon Valley as a weekend getaway because of proximity ( many who live here…

• Bedouins in Jordan

  Soul Travelers3

  1 Feb 2012 | 6:35 am

  Bedouins in Jordan The majority of Jordan's population is of Bedouin origin The majority of Jordan's population is of Bedouin origin and they are known there as the "Bedu" or literally the "desert dwellers". They are famous for their hospitality and that is obvious all over Jordan as it was one of the friendliest places we have visited on our world tour. We got a closer look at this traditonal lifestyle when we stayed at a  Bedouin camp in Wadi Rum, but this photo was taken at a random tiny camp in an isolated desert area. Our daughter Mozart even dressed in traditional Bedouin clothing…

• Beautiful Doors And Travel

  Soul Travelers3

  30 Jan 2012 | 9:33 am

  Beautiful Doors And Travel One of the joys of wandering the streetsof a foreign land, is One of the joys of wandering the streets of a foreign land, is taking in the unique architecture and I have endless photos of beautiful doors from our travels. I could do a whole series just from the beautiful doors in our little white village in Spain where we wintered for four years. Europe is especially rich with beautiful doors, but we've also loved them in Asia and almost every country and continent we have visited. Perhaps because we have built a house with beautiful hand-made doors or because…

• Mother Dolphin and Brand New Baby

  Soul Travelers3

  26 Jan 2012 | 10:31 am

  Mother Dolphin and New Baby One of the wonders of family travel is theincredible nature we see One of the wonders of family travel is the incredible nature we see as we travel the world on our super low budget. This mama and baby dolphin was seen where we swam with dolphins in Florida at Dolphins Plus research and education center. This baby dolphin was just two days old!We and our now eleven year old child have had quite a few amazing encounters with animals as we've traveled the world these last 6 years from swimming with sharks and feeding turtles in Bora Bora to riding camels and meeting…

• 

  The Cranky Flier

• Malev Shows Why Countries Don’t Need Flag Carriers

  CF

  9 Feb 2012 | 5:45 am

  While last year saw very little in the way of big airlines failing, this year is already off to a quick start with both Spanair and Malev abruptly halting flights. Malev is a particularly interesting case study, because it showcases why flag carriers simply aren’t necessary for many countries anymore. There’s always someone else to step in. Malev was born out of World War II, becoming the flag carrier for Hungary in 1946. Though at various points in its history it had designs on longer haul flying, it learned its role in the last decade as nothing more than a regional player. In…

• Congress Finally Gets Moving on a Bill to Reauthorize the FAA After Way Too Many Wasted Years

  CF

  7 Feb 2012 | 5:45 am

  I never thought we’d ever see the day come when Congress could actually agree on something, but sure enough, it appears to have happened. After more than 20 extensions of the old authorization which officially expired last decade, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is on its way to being reauthorized by Congress. It’s about freakin’ time. Congress is responsible for reauthorizing the FAA every few years. That reauthorization sets funding levels for a variety of projects and it sets priorities. So, when Congress can’t stop jerking around, the FAA sits and spins,…

• American’s New Business Plan Looks a Lot Like the Old One But With a Lot More Outsourcing

  CF

  6 Feb 2012 | 5:45 am

  February 1 was a big day at American. It was the day that the airline went over its (not really) new and improved business plan with employee groups, and that meant detailing the cuts it was going to ask for. As you can imagine, this brought some outrage but also a lot of sadness. American is asking for very deep cuts from employees (and elsewhere), and it’s not really presenting anything new. This seems like the same plan it’s been operating under, just free of some employee contract limitations. Admittedly, American hasn’t shared all the details of its plan. That…

• Cranky on the Web (January 30 – February 3)

  CF

  4 Feb 2012 | 5:45 am

  Why Spirit Airlines Is Right – Conde Nast Daily Traveler Admittedly, this post was meant to stir the pot up a little. I do see merit in what Spirit is doing in fighting the feds on one hand, but that doesn’t mean I think the rule should necessarily disappear. Still, fun to look at it from Spirit’s side. The Pros and Cons of American Airlines’s New First Class and Business Class – Conde Nast Daily Traveler Just a little piece on American’s new 777 interiors. Not much more than what I wrote about here. Waiting to board with Brett Snyder –…

• Topic of the Week: Southwest’s Bigger Airplanes Start Flying Soon

  CF

  3 Feb 2012 | 5:45 am

  Yesterday, Southwest loaded the new 737-800 aircraft into its schedules. Starting on April 11, you can start flying the 175-seat birds from Chicago and Baltimore to Florida. That same day, Southwest will start separately selling its 737s in the new 143-seat configuration (6 more than before) on certain routes. Anyone going to try to chase one of these down to try them out? Or do you care?

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  Peter Greenberg Worldwide

• Travel Deals: Leap Into Savings!

  PeterGreenberg.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:25 pm

  It’s that time again: Leap Year! Yes you can still grab a Valentine’s Day deal or two, but this week’s travel deals let you take advantage of February’s extra day to book or travel for added savings. Birthday Bonus For those birthdays that only come around once every four years, Grand Lucayan in the Bahamas has a birthday present worth checking out. For those born on February 29, the birthdays are few and far between so they’ve really got to pack a punch. Grand Lucayan, Bahamas offers the birthday boys and girls a special $29 per room/per night rate (based on double occupancy).

• What Does TSA Pre-Check Mean for You–A CBS This Morning Report

  PeterGreenberg.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:16 pm

  Yesterday, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that it would expand it pre-check program from seven airports to 28 airports in 2012. The program allows select passengers to go through a more expedient security line without removing their shoes, jackets, belts and laptops. While in theory the program sounds effective, the TSA has a strict criteria for eligibility. Currently, two segments of the population can benefit from the program. Travelers who have enrolled in one of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP)’s Trusted Traveler programs (Global Entry, SENTRI, and…

• Travel Tip: Free National Park Day

  PeterGreenberg.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 6:34 am

  Every year, the National Park Service offers free entry to more than 100 national parks across the country to honor special events and occasions, and this year is no exception. Upcoming free dates include April 21-29 in celebration of National Park Week and June 9 for Get Outdoors Day. In the fall, you’ll get free entrance on September 29 to commemorate National Public Lands Day and November 10-12 in celebration of Veteran’s Day. Several of the big-name parks are participating, like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Everglades. To beat the crowds and still enjoy some natural splendor,…

• The Travel Detective on FAA Funding and the Future of NextGen

  PeterGreenberg.com

  8 Feb 2012 | 4:18 pm

  For the first time in 8 years, both the house and the Senate have passed a new long-term funding bill. The Travel Detective looks at the legislation to find out what exactly we’re funding and when, if ever, fliers will see the impact of NextGen and other programs. After years and years of delays and inaction, Congress actually accomplished the nearly impossible this week. It passed the new FAA authorization bill. Should you be happy about this? In theory, yes. The legislation authorizes $63.3 billion for FAA programs through the year 2015 so the air traffic system will keep running.

• No One Should Have Died: A Passenger’s Account of the Costa Concordia

  PeterGreenberg.com

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:23 am

  Dr. Heinz Schaden, mayor of Salzburg, Austria, sailed on the Costa Concondia for a week of rest and quiet. We know how the story ends, but Peter recently spoke with the mayor to learn about the chaos on board, cases of crew misdirection, and his thoughts on how much of this tragedy could have been prevented. Peter Greenberg:  I’m sure you’re glad to be home. Dr. Heinz Schaden: I’m really glad to be home. I was lucky to escape unharmed which is not the case unfortunately for quite a few. Also, those passengers that I’m in contact with now that managed to escape, some of them still…

• 

  USATODAY.com Feed

• Cruise industry sets new safety drill policy

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:15 pm

  A trio of groups representing passenger lines around the world jointly announced the change.

• Great American Bites: Epic fried chicken at Willie Mae's in New Orleans

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:10 pm

  If it is not the best fried chicken you will ever taste, it will be close.

• Carnival Cruises expands New York capacity

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:53 am

  The line will have a bigger ship, the Carnival Splendor, in the city starting in March 2013.

• Wyndham to revamp Howard Johnson hotel chain

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:51 am

  Wyndham's hotel CEO tells Hotel Check-In that they're going to start laying plans to revamp the Howard Johnson budget chain this year.

• Frontier Airlines adds five new cities

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:31 am

  Frontier Airlines is adding service to five new destinations, the airline announced this morning.

• 

  Nancy D Brown

• Top 2011 Food Trends San Francisco Fancy Food Show

  Nancy Brown

  3 Feb 2012 | 2:07 am

  Food and travel connect at Fancy Food Show Imagine Willy Wonka stepping into his Chocolate Factory, suitcase or carry on bag in hand. I recently had my Willy Wonka moment as I sipped and sampled my way through 1,300 exhibitors presenting 80,00 food and beverages for me to taste in San Francisco, January 15-17, 2012 at [...]

• Dining in San Francisco Neighborhoods

  Nancy Brown

  27 Jan 2012 | 2:02 am

  Welcome to the Neighborhood, A Series About San Francisco Neighborhoods About the author. Dianne Admire is the co-owner of San Francisco company Carried Away. Carried Away offers private, custom, experiential tours of San Francisco and the Bay Area for up to 4 people. Dianne and her business partner Vikki Garrod (a.k.a. The Ladies of Carried [...]

• 4 Honolulu Bars with the Best Happy Hour

  Nancy Brown

  25 Jan 2012 | 5:24 pm

  Bars with the Best Happy Hour I love to experience the outdoors and jump at any chance to get my heart rate going while also exploring a new activity. In this regard, it’s safe to say that Hawaii pretty much has my name all over it. Of course, I also love good food and drinks. After [...]

• Things to See and Do in Florence, Italy

  Nancy Brown

  20 Jan 2012 | 2:01 am

  Florence – a must see in Italy My Italian sojourn in October of 2011 included a “mandatory” visit to the city of Florence, or Firenze in la lingua Italiano.  It is the cultural capital of Italy because it is home to many museums and renaissance structures. In fact, it is where the Renaissance actually began.   My [...]

• San Francisco 2012 Fancy Food Show – Food Entrepreneurs

  Nancy Brown

  13 Jan 2012 | 2:11 am

  San Francisco Fancy Food Show Now in its 37th year, the Winter Fancy Food Show is the largest marketplace devoted exclusively to specialty foods and beverages on the West Coast. It is strategically held in January when buyers are looking to stock up for the new year, and to plan way ahead [...]

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  Station Casinos Blog

• New Grand Cafe Special at Red Rock

  Web Team

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:45 pm

  Chef Micheal at the Red Rock Grand Cafe wants you to know about the Great New Grand Cafe Special at Red Rock: Steak, Shrimp, House Salad and a slice of Apple Pie all for just $14.99! Really! (24 Hours, too!)

• Tickets still available for Michael Lington

  Web Team

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:16 pm

  This rising star of Contemporary Jazz plays Chrome Showroom in Santa Fe Station tomorrow night! Get Tickets now:

• USA Sevens Rugby (the Invitational) underway in Las Vegas.

  Web Team

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:45 pm

  Rugby fans can join us tomorrow night at Sunset Station for even more fun!

• New 4 card keno games!

  Web Team

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:45 pm

  Now you can play 4 games at once, including Caveman Keno and Cleopatra.

• Behind the Scenes Sneak Peek: Red Rock Commercial Shoot.

  Web Team

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:22 pm

  Behind the Scenes Sneak Peek:  We filmed a fun commercial at Red Rock Wednesday, be on the lookout for it soon!  

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  NewYorkology

• Apollo Theater offering February discounts

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:10 pm

  The Apollo Theater throughout February is offering discounted admission to its shows and tours as part of a promotion with the city’s official tourism agency. As culture spot of the month, the Apollo Theater will honor a coupon issued by NYC & Company that allows $3 off tickets for Amateur Night performances, $5 off shows at the Apollo Music Cafe or $3 off the price of Wednesday tours of the historic theater. The Apollo Theater is located in Harlem at 253 W. 125th St. Earlier: Apollo Theater to host free Open House events Free backstage tours at Apollo for 75th anniversary

• Renoirs reunited at the Frick Collection

  7 Feb 2012 | 3:02 pm

  The Frick Collection today opened an exhibition of nine full-length paintings by Pierre-Auguste Renoir including “La Promenade” and eight works on loan. Situated all in one gallery at the museum, The Frick is selling timed-entry tickets for the exhibition. Renoir, the son of a tailor and a dressmaker, was something of a fashionista, Colin Bailey, the museum’s director and curator of the show, said Monday during a preview of the exhibition. “The Umbrellas,” which originally was shown in New York City in 1886 as “Rain in Paris” can be viewed as two…

• NYC skyline to go all in blue for Giants' Super Bowl win

  6 Feb 2012 | 4:02 pm

  Many of New York City’s skyscrapers and other iconic building will light up blue tonight in salute to the Giants’ Super Bowl championship. The top of the Empire State Building, One Bryant Park and Four Times Square, the ConEd Tower, Brooklyn Borough Hall and the JFK Airport control tower will all shine blue tonight, officials at each building have confirmed. Most of the buildings will remain blue again on Tuesday night after the ticker-tape parade and other celebrations. Image source: File picture from Edelman.

• 'Honeymoon in Vegas' bets on Broadway for 2013

  6 Feb 2012 | 1:14 pm

  A musical based on the “Honeymoon in Vegas” movie aims to open on Broadway with Tony Danza in the spring of 2013, publicists for the show announced today. The new musical of “Honeymoon in Vegas” will debut in Toronto in November before heading for Broadway. The production features music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown and a book by Andrew Bergman. Gary Griffin will direct and Denis Jones will handle choreography. Additional cast and creative members have not been announced. The 1992 movie of the same name starred James Caan, Nicolas Cage and Sarah Jessica Parker. The…

• Giants Super Bowl victory parade: Feb. 7, 2012

  5 Feb 2012 | 9:03 pm

  The New York Giants, the winners of Super Bowl XLVI, will get their victory parade Tuesday morning, Feb. 7. The first details are available from NYC’s 311 service: “In celebration of the Giants Super Bowl victory, the City is holding a Championship Ceremony at City Hall Plaza at 11 AM on Tuesday, Februray 7th, rain or shine. On Monday, February 6th, at 9 AM, you can click, text, or call 311 for your chance to win 2 VIP seats for the ceremony. You can enter if you are 18 or older and live in New York, New Jersey or Connecticut. If you win, you will be contacted and you will have…

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  TravelPod.com TravelStream™ — Recent Entries at TravelPod.com

• New Zealand......sweet as! — Motueka, New Zealand

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:37 pm

  New Zealand......sweet as! - Motueka, New Zealand Motueka, New ZealandG'day mates, Inmiddels vertoeven we alweer ruim een week in het prachtige Nieuw-Zeeland. Voor Marjolein een ware trip down memory lane; alles is nog net zo geweldig, alleen nu ook geweldig duur en geweldig toeristisch! Na een rendez-vous met Monique (tante van Franka, die de twee crazy dutchies 10 jaar geleden onder haar hoede nam bij hun bezoek aan NZ) in Auckland, zijn we met ons prachtige kleine campervannetje vertrokken naar de Coromandel, aan de Noordoostkust van het Noordeiland. Op het strand van Hahei, Cathedral Cove…

• …und Heiligabend mit Möchtegern-Pinguinen — Pinguin-Strand, New Zealand

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:36 pm

  …und Heiligabend mit Möchtegern-Pinguinen - Pinguin-Strand, New Zealand Pinguin-Strand, New ZealandAlso, es sollte weitergehen Richtung Süden. In unserem tollen Reiseführer-Straßenatlas war eine Stelle eingezeichnet, an der es eine Pinguin-Kolonie gab! Wir wollten unbedingt Pinguine sehen! Außerdem lagen wir supergut in der Zeit und waren schon sehr weit auf der Südinsel vorangekommen, obwohl wir noch eine knappe Woche hatten, sodass wir einen kleinen Abstecher zur Pinguin-Bucht gemacht haben. So mussten wir ein kleines Stück (mh, also es war schon…

• Partying in the highest city in the word — La Paz, Bolivia

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:36 pm

  Partying in the highest city in the word - La Paz, Bolivia La Paz, Bolivia Where I stayed Wild Rover Backpackers La Paz(La Paz hotels)So the bus trip to La Paz was only 9 hours which by now for us is a "quck" journey. It was however once again up sone of the winding roads hanging off cliff edges, when I say hanging off I mean literally in these countries there is no safety barriers to hit first ….nothing just the cliff edge tried to do a wee video (see below) b ut I don't think it really captures the height your at or how deadly it is or that the movie is the wrong way around haha!!

• 66 Degrees and sunny... — Sacramento, CA

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:19 pm

  66 Degrees and sunny... - Sacramento, CA Sacramento, CA Where I stayedvegabond inn executive(Sacramento hotels)and i have no clue what to do

• In-Seine Coach Trip — Paris, France

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:17 pm

  In-Seine Coach Trip - Paris, France Paris, FranceBy 6:50pm, the omens were poor as Shelley and I shivered and awaited our coach - due at 6:30pm - in the freezing cold of a Midlands' winter evening for a overnight trip to Euro Disney Paris for the scarcely believable return price of £19.95 each. It was then that a taxi arrived, explaining that due to a crash on the M5 we needed to be ferried to Coventry to kick-off the trip. Once deposited in a bleak car park in Cov, which sat beneath a fly over, we waited for another half hour for our coach and a further 30 minutes as the final…

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  The Lost Girls

• Cheap Hostels in Las Vegas: Stay at Las Vegas Hostel in Sin City

  Patty H

  2 Feb 2012 | 10:00 am

  It’s Sin City of the Bellagio fountain light show, Thunder from Down Under Australian dancers, Celine Dion, and thousands of bachelorette parties per year. And footing the weekend bill here gets crazy expensive. Name that city? Yep, you guessed it: Viva, Las Vegas! Instead of booking a hotel suite that’ll cost hundreds, save your cash by staying in a cheap hostel while you’re in Las Vegas. Las Vegas Hostel, located on 1322 Fremont Street, is more than just a place to sleep in Vegas. It’s the Vegas hot spot for young people on a budget, offering free breakfast, tea and coffee, a pool,…

• LG Guide to Buying Your First dSLR

  Mary

  2 Feb 2012 | 4:00 am

  By Jill Martiniuk Special to Lost Girls  Admittedly, I really had no clue what I was doing when I bought my dSLR camera. I had just finished my Master’s degree, and was about to serve as faculty for Semester at Sea for the summer. A new degree and a nine-week trip around the Mediterranean seemed like the right reasons to get an expensive camera. Looking back, I was completely unprepared for my new camera. That summer I basically used it as an expensive point and shoot. Three years, lots of research and experience later, I feel my dSLR has made me a better photographer and traveler. Here…

• Lost Girl of the Week: A. Christine Maxfield

  Lost Girls

  1 Feb 2012 | 5:21 am

  This week’s Lost Girl, Christine Maxfield, had a hard wake-up call—working at a travel magazine didn’t necessarily mean that she was able to travel! So she quit her journalism job in New York, stuffed her goods in storage, and bought a one-way ticket to Africa on a quest to experience the same adventures that she was only able to write about. Now, a year later, she’s back and her career has never looked better… I blame my wanderlust on my first true love—my grandfather. He was the one that got me hooked on National Geographic by having a full magazine collection in his basement…

• Spain…art!

  Lost Girls

  31 Jan 2012 | 9:59 pm

  By Will Jones 
 Special to The Lost Girls Spain. A country rich in colorful and diverse history; of incredibly varied regions; and warm, welcoming people. First-time visitors often expect bullfights, sangria, and sombreros, and while these are vital and traditional aspects of Spanish culture, there’s much more to modern Spain as a progressive, diverse, and unique society. Cities to Visit The three top cities in Spain to visit are Madrid, Barcelona, and Granada. Madrid is a big city, and most travelers find excitement in the fast pace and extreme size of the city. Barcelona is known for…

• Backpacking On A Budget In New Zealand

  Lost Girls

  31 Jan 2012 | 10:00 am

  By Sarah Deveau When you think backpacking, Europe likely pops into mind. Yet far-flung New Zealand is a popular backpacking destination, especially for adventurers looking to avoid the hassle of skirting around areas of turmoil or travelling nervously through them. A compact country with relaxed beaches, spectacular scenery and a reputation for extreme fun, New Zealand has everything a backpacker wants. But can you afford it? “Granted, we have no $11 a night beach huts or $2 noodle bowls, but backpackers won’t have to thumb their way across the country if they travel smart,” says…

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  The Cruise Log - USATODAY.com

• Cruise industry sets new safety drill policy

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:15 pm

  A trio of groups representing passenger lines around the world jointly announced the change.

• Carnival Cruises expands New York capacity

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:53 am

  The line will have a bigger ship, the Carnival Splendor, in the city starting in March 2013.

• Three Cunard ships to unite for celebration

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:42 am

  The Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria will come together in June in the U.K.

• Don Shula to headline 'NFL legends' cruise

  9 Feb 2012 | 6:35 am

  Don Shula and Larry Csonka are among the football notables taking part in the Crystal sailing.

• CEO: Disney Cruise Line bookings down, too

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:28 am

  The company is the latest cruise ship operator to note a drop following the Costa accident.

• 

  Featured Travel Blogs - Travellerspoint

• New Hampshire and its windy cold mountain

  7 Feb 2012 | 6:15 pm

  We woke at our KOA campground in Queeche, Vermont and decided to grab some breakfast in a nearby town. We headed for the border town of White River Junction VT and enjoyed a quiet coffee and eggs, got our fill of liberal magazines, papers and bumper stickers and sadly, saw more flood damage to a local bridge whose pylon had been shifted in the huge wave of water and was being fixed by a giant crane.We then crossed the White River into the state of New Hampshire....one more state and we're back on the east coast! Wow! We crossed the bridge into a town called Lebanon which was very cute and…

• We’re not quite finished with Namibia yet!

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:49 am

  When we weren’t getting thrown out of planes or lugging it up sand-dunes we did quite a few other things in Namibia; best shown in photo format me thinks. :-)1. Largest Baobab TreeLargest Baobab tree in Namibia. While we did get some lovely photos taken of Mike and I in the tree; even some very arty black and white ones, we couldn’t resist the group jumping shot. Hilarious. (From left to right: Sam, Chris P, Graham, Vicci, Me, Mike, Kat. MIA: Chris D, Hussain and Alex). We (illegally) bush camped near-by on our first night in Namibia and fortunately didn’t get busted.2. Chris Brit's…

• The Oasis of Dreams

  5 Feb 2012 | 2:12 pm

  Living on board the world’s largest cruise ship has some similarities to other large ships and similarities to large all-inclusive resorts but it truly is quite unique. The sheer size of the ship means that there is a tremendous variety of activities and venues all operating simultaneously and all creating their own din of noise and buzz of activity. Just to add to the frenetic atmosphere many venues play loud rock music to pump up the level of hype and encourage the party atmosphere. Below is a picture of a Parade on the Promenade featuring all the nationalities of the crew.

• Auckland

  2 Feb 2012 | 12:34 am

  Once again we had to drag ourselves out of our extremely comfy bed at silly o’clock in the morning to go to the airport. After an extremely smooth journey we arrived in Auckland at about 6pm, hopped in an airport shuttle, and were at our hostel by 7. Much to our delight as we walked into our room, we realised that we had been upgraded; instead of the standard double with shared bathroom that we had paid for, we had a ‘deluxe studio’ apartment complete with kitchen, t.v, sofa and bathroom. After settling into our apartment we ventured out into the late afternoon sunshine to get our…

• Talking Travel with Glynn Hammond (nzhamsta)

  22 Jan 2012 | 9:31 pm

  In this month's Talking Travel series, we chatted to regular TP contributor Glynn Hammond (aka nzhamsta). A prolific traveller and blogger, he has mapped over 40 trips and shared more than 2000 photos. Glynn is an avid believer in making the most of travel opportunities, having spent his life balancing work with long trips overseas, and takes his inspiration from the Mark Twain quote: "Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore.

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  Today in the Sky - USATODAY.com

• Name that airport ... (Antakya, Turkey)

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:16 am

  Here is this week's "name that airport" photo.

• Frontier Airlines adds five new cities

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:31 am

  Frontier Airlines is adding service to five new destinations, the airline announced this morning.

• TSA to expand 'Pre-check' screening option

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:25 am

  Frequent fliers on Delta and American will be able to move faster through airports in Washington, New York, Chicago and Salt Lake City.

• French flights snarled as strike grinds on

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:33 am

  A labor strike in France continued to wreak havoc on flight schedules there.

• TSA chief: Private baggage screeners cost more

  7 Feb 2012 | 5:29 pm

  Lawmakers wrangled at a House hearing Tuesday over allowing more airports to hire more private baggage screeners, with Republicans supporting ...

• 

  USATODAY.com Feed

• Cruise industry sets new safety drill policy

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:15 pm

  A trio of groups representing passenger lines around the world jointly announced the change.

• Great American Bites: Epic fried chicken at Willie Mae's in New Orleans

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:10 pm

  If it is not the best fried chicken you will ever taste, it will be close.

• Carnival Cruises expands New York capacity

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:53 am

  The line will have a bigger ship, the Carnival Splendor, in the city starting in March 2013.

• Wyndham to revamp Howard Johnson hotel chain

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:51 am

  Wyndham's hotel CEO tells Hotel Check-In that they're going to start laying plans to revamp the Howard Johnson budget chain this year.

• Frontier Airlines adds five new cities

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:31 am

  Frontier Airlines is adding service to five new destinations, the airline announced this morning.

• 

  View from the Wing

• Reader Question: Signup for Continental Mastercard or Chase Sapphire Preferred?

  Gary

  8 Feb 2012 | 6:30 am

  Reader Diane S. writes: I am a rather faithful United/Star Alliance flyer for international travel. I have just booked a trip to South Africa with them and also a BA internal flight. I currently have a UA MC, Visa and Business Visa. I also have a Chase SW card that I’m thinking of dumping. I would like to apply for a few cards to get bonus miles. I was targeted for a BA card after booking my flight (40,000), am interested in Chase Sapphire for the bonus and the card benefits, but wonder if I should grab the Continental Onepass since I’d get the 25,000 and maybe get switched to the…

• 1500 American Miles for $30 in Restaurant Spend

  Gary

  7 Feb 2012 | 5:57 pm

  Pizza in Motion details a new American AAdvantage mileage bonus for dining at participating restaurants. Once upon a time it was Transmedia, and then iDine, and now Rewards Network, but I’m still stuck calling it iDine. You register a credit card with Rewards Network, linked to a particular co-branded frequent flyer program, and when you pay a bill at a participating restaurant with that credit card miles will post to your account. Just signing up earns 1 mile per dollar in most programs, creating an online profile earns 3 miles, and dining 12 times in a year (becoming elite) with a…

• I’m Giving Away 66,000 Hyatt Gold Passport Points!

  Gary

  7 Feb 2012 | 5:58 am

  I highlighted Hyatt’s Winter promotion when it was first announced and then flagged when registration became available. But it’s worth highlighting again, because at the time I flagged it as the most generous current promo in the market. It’s not the most generous hotel promotion that’s ever been but it’s pretty good and I like it more than other current offerings. For every 4 nights between February 1 and April 30, members earn additional points and Hyatt Visa also earn an extra 25% bonus on top. Registration required by March 31. 4 nights earns 4000 points (+1000 for Hyatt Visa…

• Bits ‘n Pieces for February 7, 2012

  Gary

  7 Feb 2012 | 5:38 am

  Via Dan’s Deals, you can get a free 26 week subscription to the Wall Street Journal and also to Barron’s. Via the Points Guy you can get 3000 free Avios points if you log into your account and search for Realtytrac in the top right search bar, then sign up for a free 7 day trial. You’ll need to call (877-888-8722, 8am – 5pm Pacific) in order to cancel within those 7 days to avoid being charged for the service. Matthew points out that Continental.com has now added all Star Alliance partners to their website for award booking except Ethiopian Airlines. Continental.com is the easiest…

• Reader Questions about Rewards Credit Cards

  Gary

  6 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  Here are some recent questions from readers. As y’all are aware, the single most lucrative thing you can do to earn miles and points is to pay attention to your credit card earning. First, there are big bonuses for signup. Second, several cards offer really good bonuses for specific kinds of spending. And third, day to day expenses really do add up quite nicely. More miles are earned from credit card spend than from actually flying (the last time I saw the data this was true excluding elite bonuses, route bonuses, etc. although it’s possible that now it would be true even…

• 

  Living Jet Set

• JSI 006 More Unreleased Bloopers, Meet Fat Rob the Nudist & We Almost Crash Flying to St. Barth’s

  heyjetset@gmail.com

  4 Feb 2012 | 7:48 am

  In This Episode: In This Weeks Podcast we show you more of our Jet Set Life bloopers, watch when Rob turns into a diva, take you on our fearful flight to St. Barth’s, show you what Rob looked like 40 pounds heavier and Kim finally concedes that Rob was right! Can’t get enough of Rob & Kim’s Jet Set Insider show? Then subscribe to this podcast and get a weekly update on Rob and Kim’s travel adventures. For more information about Rob and Kim and Jet Set Life please visit www.JetSetLife.TV Audio Only Player: Download audio file (JSI_006.mp3)

• JSI 005 Our Unreleased Blooper Reel, Rob’s Fear Factor Audition Tape, How We Became The Laughing Stock Of St.Tropez & Uncovering Cartagena’s Sweetest Weapon

  heyjetset@gmail.com

  21 Jan 2012 | 8:11 am

    In This Episode: In this week’s podcast watch our favorite Jet Set Life bloopers, laugh at Rob’s Fear Factor audition tape, learn how we became the laughing-stock of St. Tropez and uncover Cartagena’s sweetest weapon! Can’t get enough of Rob & Kim’s Jet Set Insider show? Then subscribe to this podcast and get a weekly update on Rob and Kim’s travel adventures. For more information about Rob and Kim and Jet Set Life please visit www.JetSetLife.TV Audio Only Player: Download audio file (JSI_005.mp3)

• JSI 004 Rob Get’s Caught Exiting a Rub & Tug, Whitie Takes Over Hosting Jet Set Life & Kim Uncovers the Table-Racket in NYC Nightclubs!

  heyjetset@gmail.com

  14 Jan 2012 | 9:19 am

    In This Episode: In this weeks podcast Rob tells you about his NYC rub & tug experience, we replace ourselves for a day hosting Jet Set Life and Kim uncovers the racket of table service in NYC! Audio Only Player: Download audio file (JSI_004.mp3)

• JSI 003 We’re In The Middle Of A Bar Fight, Worst Hotel Owner EVER & Our NYE Party Get’s Hijacked…[VIDEO]

  heyjetset@gmail.com

  6 Jan 2012 | 11:37 pm

    In This Episode: In this weeks podcast we tell you how we accidently got caught in the middle of a bar fight, how we get into a fight with a hotel owner and how our New Years Eve countdown got hijacked. Audio Only Player: Download audio file (JSI_003.mp3)

• JSI 002: Rob Almost Goes to Jail in BsAs, Flying with Kids & We Re-Live Rob’s Worst Hangover

  heyjetset@gmail.com

  17 Dec 2011 | 7:10 am

    In This Episode: In this weeks podcast we tell you how Rob almost got thrown in jail in Buenos Aires, the do’s and don’t’s of flying with kids and one of Rob’s most embarrassing moments that has now become a You Tube sensation. Audio Only Player: Download audio file (JSI_002.mp3)

• 

  My Jet Set Life

• JSI 006 More Unreleased Bloopers, Meet Fat Rob the Nudist & We Almost Crash Flying to St. Barth’s

  Kim

  4 Feb 2012 | 8:10 am

  In This Episode: In This Weeks Podcast we show you more of our Jet Set Life bloopers, watch when Rob turns into a diva, take you on our fearful flight to St. Barth’s, show you what Rob looked like 40 pounds heavier and Kim finally concedes that Rob was right! Can’t get enough of Rob & Kim’s Jet Set Insider show? Then subscribe to this podcast and get a weekly update on Rob and Kim’s travel adventures. For more information about Rob and Kim and Jet Set Life please visit www.JetSetLife.TV Audio Only Player:

• JSI 005 Our Unreleased Blooper Reel, Rob’s Fear Factor Audition Tape, How We Became The Laughing Stock Of St.Tropez & Uncovering Cartagena’s Sweetest Weapon

  Kim

  21 Jan 2012 | 8:42 am

    In This Episode: Can’t get enough of Rob & Kim’s Jet Set Insider show? Then subscribe to this podcast and get a weekly update on Rob and Kim’s travel adventures. For more information about Rob and Kim and Jet Set Life please visit www.JetSetLife.TV Audio Only Player:

• JSI 004 Rob Get’s Caught Exiting a Rub & Tug, Whitie Takes Over Hosting Jet Set Life & Kim Uncovers the Table-Racket in NYC Nightclubs!

  Kim

  14 Jan 2012 | 9:25 am

    In This Episode: In this weeks podcast Rob tells you about his NYC rub & tug experience, we replace ourselves for a day hosting Jet Set Life and Kim uncovers the racket of table service in NYC! Audio Only Player:

• JSI 003 We’re In The Middle Of A Bar Fight, Worst Hotel Owner EVER & Our NYE Party Get’s Hijacked…[VIDEO]

  Kim

  6 Jan 2012 | 11:37 pm

    In This Episode: In this weeks podcast we tell you how we accidentally got caught in the middle of a bar fight, how we get into a fight with a hotel owner and how our New Years Eve countdown got hijacked. Audio Only Player:

• JSI 002: Rob Almost Goes to Jail in BsAs, Flying with Kids & We Re-Live Rob’s Worst Hangover

  Kim

  17 Dec 2011 | 7:16 am

    In This Episode: In this weeks podcast we tell you how Rob almost got thrown in jail in Buenos Aires, the do’s and don’t’s of flying with kids and one of Rob’s most embarrassing moments that has now become a You Tube sensation. Audio Only Player:

• 

  தென்றல்

• மூன்று வியப்புகள்!!! - பகுதி - 2

  Vavanna (உமர்தம்பிஅண்ணன்)

  22 Jan 2012 | 12:28 pm

  பகுதி - 2பழைய கனவுகளில் மூழ்கி, தலைப்பை மறந்து, பாதை மாறி, வெகு தூரம் வந்து விட்டேன்! மன்னியுங்கள்! மீண்டும் 1957 ஆகஸ்டு முதல் தேதிக்குப் போவோம்!  காலைச் சிற்றுண்டி முடிந்தது. எனது ஞானத் தந்தை, முதல்வர், பேராசிரியர், தி.தனக்கோடி…

• மூன்று வியப்புகள்!!!

  Vavanna (உமர்தம்பிஅண்ணன்)

  18 Dec 2011 | 12:20 pm

  1957- ஆம் ஆண்டு, ஆகஸ்டுத் திங்கள், முதல் நாள், அன்று தான் அதிராம்பட்டினம் மண்ணில் முதல் தடவையாகக் காலை வைத்தேன்! முதல் நாள் அன்றே மூன்று வியப்புக் குறிகள் என் நெஞ்சில் பதிந்தன!கல்லூரி இருக்கும் ஊர் பெரிய நகரமாக, மாட மாளிகைகள்,…

• ஐம்பது ஆண்டுகளுக்கு முன்!

  Vavanna (உமர்தம்பிஅண்ணன்)

  11 Dec 2011 | 10:30 am

  அதிரை நகரக் கல்வித் தந்தை ஹாஜி எஸ்.எம்.எஸ். ஷேக் ஜலாலுதீன் 28-01-1920 – ல் பிறந்தார். நகரத் தந்தை சேர்மன், முஹம்மது அபுல் ஹசன் மரைக்காயரின் ஒரே பிள்ளை; செல்லப்பிள்ளை; சேர்மன் தன் தந்தை ஹாஜி ஷேக் ஜலாலுதீன் பெயரைப் பிள்ளைக்குச்…

• எம் சிந்தையைக் கவர்ந்த கல்வித் தந்தை!

  Vavanna (உமர்தம்பிஅண்ணன்)

  11 Dec 2011 | 10:17 am

  A.M.M.A.,Bed.

• நடையா, இது நடையா! நற் கடமையன்றோ நடக்குது!

  Vavanna (உமர்தம்பிஅண்ணன்)

  2 Nov 2011 | 9:39 pm

  “நான் வாக்கிங் போகும்போது கச்சலை அவிழ்த்து விட்டு,சலாம் சொல்லிக் கடக்குமளவுக்கு மதிப்பிற்குரிய வாத்தியார்களின் ராஜபாட்டை நடைப் பயிற்சி தொடர்கிறதா?” என்று, உமர் வரலாறு ஆக்கத்துக்குக் ‘கமென்ட்’ எழுதிய கவிஞர் சபீர்…

• 

  Mapplr

• India’s air pollution worse than China’s

  Esme Vos

  2 Feb 2012 | 4:35 am

  In the previous post, we warned you about the foul air in China’s cities where levels of air pollution are so high that breathing is extremely hazardous to your health. People who have respiratory illnesses and chronic asthma are advised not to spend a lot of time in Beijing. What I did not know is that the air quality in many cities in India is even worse. In fact, India now has the worst air quality on the planet (see NYT article: India overtakes China, now has world’s most polluted air). I found out just how bad the pollution was in India after coming down with a painful sore…

• Travel health warning: smog in Beijing is way off the charts

  Esme Vos

  10 Jan 2012 | 8:02 pm

  If you thinking of visiting Beijing and you have respiratory problems (like asthma), bring an inhaler or stay indoors. Yesterday, more than 150 flights to Beijing were cancelled because of fog (official explanation), but in addition to the fog was an excessively high level of pollution, so high it was “off the charts”. The US Embassy in Beijing monitors air pollution levels in the city and measures particles that are 2.5 micrometers or less, known as PM2.5. These tiny particles are the most hazardous to humans. Yesterday (January 10), the US Embassy’s pollution meter…

• Travel guide to Queenstown, New Zealand: hotels, restaurants, shopping, activities

  Esme Vos

  26 Dec 2011 | 7:17 am

  Ziptrek Eco Tours in Queenstown Queenstown, New Zealand is considered the “adventure capital of the world” which means you get to hurl your body off a variety of locations, such as bridges (bungy jump), trees (zip on a harness on thin lines between tree tops at the Ziptrek Eco Tours), hillsides (paragliding) and airplanes (skydiving). For those more inclined to keep their feet close to the ground, there are long, arduous hikes that take days (e.g., the Milford Track and the Routeburn Track) or hours (hiking up the Ben Lomond trail high above Queenstown). And there are mountain…

• Queenstown Park Hotel: luxurious boutique hotel in Queenstown, New Zealand

  Esme Vos

  23 Dec 2011 | 4:33 am

  If you are looking for a luxurious intimate boutique hotel with stylish decor and great service, look no further than the Queenstown Park Hotel which is located only five minutes from the heart of Queenstown. We stayed at the Queenstown Park Hotel for a week in early December before the holiday rush and greatly enjoyed the experience. Here is what we loved about the hotel and why we would come back again: (1) Excellent service: The staff helped us book an amazing helicopter tour of Milford Sound and provided restaurant recommendations in Queenstown and Arrowtown, all of which turned out to be…

• Casa de La Flora: luxurious beach front getaway in Thailand

  Megha Patel

  28 Nov 2011 | 11:38 am

  Beach front suite pool villa With 36 slate-grey cube-shaped villas in Khao Lak, Casa de La Flora brings a modern twist to the palm beach of the Phangnga province.  This is a high profile destination hotel with a humble atmosphere in southern Thailand, about an hour drive from the Phuket Airport. Described as ‘”Heaven on Earth”, this modern resort has top notch service with well trained and friendly staff, as well as its own private beach.  The villas have either one or two bedrooms with the smallest one bedroom studio pool villa being around 70 square meters and the largest…

• 

  PlaneBuzz

• PlaneBusiness Banter Now Posted!

  8 Feb 2012 | 3:37 am

  Good evening everyone. This week's issue of PlaneBusiness Banter is now posted. And a jam-packed issue it is. This week we're talking all things American Airlines (of course), we give you a look at the presentations last week at the Raymond James Global Airline Conference in New York, and of course, we have fourth quarter earnings reports from two airlines to dissect. Both Hawaiian Holdings, parent of Hawaiian Airlines, and Allegiant Travel Company reported earnings last week. While we have been big fans of the Hawaiian Airlines story over the last several years, and particularly the last…

• PlaneBusiness Banter Now Posted!

  1 Feb 2012 | 2:36 am

  Good evening everyone! This week's huge mega-earnings issue of PlaneBusiness Banter is now posted. This week we take an in-depth look at the recent earnings results and the earnings calls from Delta Air Lines, US Airways, Alaska Air Group, JetBlue, and United Continental Holdings. But there's more. Republic Holdings announced last week that Frontier Airlines was getting a new executive team and -- that the airline was going to become an ULCC. You know what that is don't you? Ultra low cost carrier. Think Spirit. Or Ryanair. Not sure what all the animals are going to think about this. Not…

• PlaneBusiness Banter Now Posted!

  25 Jan 2012 | 2:01 am

  Good evening everyone. This week's issue of PlaneBusiness Banter is now posted. This week we're talking a lot about the two airlines that call Dallas-Ft.Worth home -- American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. Last week Southwest Airlines rolled out its fourth quarter earnings results -- making the airline the first to report for the quarter. Overall the airline posted numbers that were just a bit better than expected, although the "noise" from the airline's merger with AirTran will continue into 2012. The airline also updated its list of AirTran cities it is keeping and those it is putting on…

• PlaneBusiness Banter Now Posted!

  18 Jan 2012 | 3:16 am

  Good evening everyone. We have a busy week this week in PlaneBusiness Banter. We are talking about Southwest Airlines and its new seating configuration on its 737-700s, we're talking about WestJet's plans to start flying turboprops, we take a look at why one analyst downgraded JetBlue to a "sell" rating this last week, we talk about what a great week the airline sector enjoyed last week, and, oh yes, we talk a lot about American Airlines. And Delta Air Lines. And US Airways. I'll tell you why and how Delta Air Lines could successfully bid on, and be allowed to purchase, a piece of AMR. (Can…

• PlaneBusiness Banter is Back!

  11 Jan 2012 | 1:47 am

  Hello everyone. It's time once again to jump into the fray. Our Holiday Hiatus is over. Time to close out the story on 2011 and start the story of 2012. The first issue of PlaneBusiness Banter for 2012 is now posted. This week we talk a lot about airline stocks. We look at how they performed for the last week, the last month, the last quarter and the last year. The good news? The sector posted a huge fourth quarter. Not so good news -- yearly stock performance numbers were horrible. But hey, the quarterly numbers are much more important. In addition, contrary to a number of wire service and…

• 

  Tony Wheeler

• Chinese Guidebooks, Chinese Authors

  Tony Wheeler

  4 Feb 2012 | 3:12 pm

  ▲ Lonely Planet guidebooks have been available in Chinese for nearly 6 years now, Maureen and I went to China to help launch them in 2006, you can even read the Lonely Planet Story in Chinese. ▲ The most exciting development, however, was when with our Chinese language partner we started to produce regional guidebooks to China researched and written by Chinese travel writers. It was a pioneering project for our writer-researchers and we were immensely pleased with the 8 books they produced. Here they are, guides to Yunnan, Sichuan & Chongqing, Guizhou, Shaanxi, Guangxi, Qinghai, Gansu…

• Bad Coffee in Paris?

  Tony Wheeler

  3 Feb 2012 | 3:34 pm

  ‘Why do the French make such horrible coffee?’ I used to think when I lived in Paris in 1996. If I’d bothered researching the question I’d quickly have found the answer – bad coffee was French government policy. The French government pushed the cheaper, lower quality Robusta coffee beans, rather than the more expensive, higher quality Arabica coffee, because Robusta was what grew in French colonies. Since Robusta was best for making those tiny cups of bitter sump-oil-black espresso, which is what the French think of as coffee, that’s what they learned to…

• Sites of Impact

  Tony Wheeler

  1 Feb 2012 | 12:10 pm

  ▲ Wolfe Creek Crater, Western Australia Every now and then I pick up a ‘got to go there’ book, you read it or look at the pictures and that’s what you immediately think. Judith Schalansky’s Atlas of Remote Islandswas a fine example, she claimed she hadn’t been to any of the 50 weird and wonderful islands in her book. I could put ticks beside just five of them – Rapa Iti (in the Austral group of French Polynesia), Robinson Crusoe Island (off Chile), Easter Island (even further off Chile), Pitcairn Island (keep travelling west) and Deception Island…

• Afghanistan comes to Mildura, Australia

  Tony Wheeler

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:10 pm

  ▲ Afghan kite, Australian gum tree Australia Day on 26 January is Australia’s equivalent of the USA's 4th of July or France’s Bastille Day (there isn’t a UK equivalent). I go some- where in the state of Victoria every year as part of the ‘Australia Day Ambassador’ program and this year I went to Mildura, on the Murray River up in the north-west corner of the state. It’s a standard pattern, the Lions Club puts on a barbecue, the flag gets raised, the national anthem is sung, the local mayor and I make speeches, the brass band (and a local rock band) play,…

• The Otway Fly

  Tony Wheeler

  24 Jan 2012 | 3:50 pm

  My January spell at Apollo Bay in Victoria, Australia included a couple of days walking along the Great Ocean Walk and some interesting encounters with Aussie critters. Not this one, this rather fine looking pterodactyl model featured in a dinosaur walk at the Otway Fly. ▼◄  The Otway Fly is a 600metre treetop treewalk through some terrific forest with great views, a cantilever and a tower as added attractions. The Otway Fly is a fine example of the treetop walks and ziplines which seem to have popped up all over the place in recent years. I’ve also encountered them at:…

• 

  Consumer Traveler

• Drones coming to U.S. airspace — really, they are already here

  Charlie Leocha

  9 Feb 2012 | 5:00 am

  A little-noticed section of the latest FAA legislation pays attention to the development of drones and consumer groups like the Consumer Travel Alliance (CTA) have their antennas tuned to coming changes and how they will affect airline passenger safety.

• What we’re reading: TSA expands faster screening, WestJet goes ahead with short-haul carrier, Disneyland 1957

  Stephanus Surjaputra

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:00 am

  US adds faster screening to more airports The TSA is expanding its expedited screening programs to 28 more airports throughout 2012. The expedited screening program will grow throughout 2012 from seven pilot locations to all three major airports in the New York City area, the three in the Washington, DC, area and others including Boston, [...]

• Global Entry — final DHS rule expands program

  Charlie Leocha

  8 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am

  The Department of Homeland Security announced the Final rule that establishes Global Entry. This program allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers to streamline the international arrivals and admission process at airports for trusted travelers through biometric identification—as a permanent program.

• Booking a vacation rental through a tour operator — it could save your vacation

  Janice Hough

  8 Feb 2012 | 5:00 am

  Condominiums and villas can be a great vacation option. For prices that are similar to that of a hotel room, travelers can end up with more space and a kitchen, which even for those who don't want to cook, can save a lot of money on snacks and beverages. But, if there is a problem, having a good tour operator on your side may make a big difference.

• What we’re reading: Favorite defunct airlines, 10 best travel apps, most romantic cities in Canada

  Stephanus Surjaputra

  8 Feb 2012 | 4:00 am

  Favorite defunct airlines, 10 best travel apps, most romantic cities in Canada (unknown to many Americans)

• 

  NYT > Travel

• Hidden Treasures in Penang, Malaysia

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:30 pm

  Thanks in part by Unesco’s 2008 listing of Penang’s capital city, George Town, as a World Heritage site, the Malaysian island is padding out its list of attractions.

• 36 Hours: Penang, Malaysia

  By ROBYN ECKHARDT

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:40 pm

  Smart restaurants, a lively art scene and a spate of new boutique hotels: There’s more to this exotic island than its famous noodle soup.

• Practical Traveler: Flying Tips for Older Passengers

  By CHRISTINE HAUGHNEY

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:51 am

  Need assistance when traveling? It’s out there for those in the know.

• In Transit Blog: In Berlin, 395 Films, 18 Premieres, and 1 Award to Streep

  By EMILIE TRICE

  9 Feb 2012 | 5:00 am

  Berlin's annual film festival, the Berlinale, showcases a total of 395 films from around the world in its 62nd installment, which runs from Thursday through Feb. 19.

• Voyages: The World of Charles Dickens, Complete With Pizza Hut

  By SAM ANDERSON

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:39 am

  Welcome to Dickens World, a peculiar theme park based on the author’s works.

• 

  SandWagon

• Bali scuba trip - I've that sinking feeling about this dream travel plan

  Kelly Pipes

  4 Feb 2012 | 6:31 pm

  MY wonderfully well-crafted dream of floating below the swooping wing of a manta ray was certainly curtailed today... even though I've a credit card gagging to shoulder the booking.This trip, which would have kicked off in Bali in the first week of April, has been brewing for around two or three weeks, fueled by a couple of like-minded scuba diving friends (who have booked flight tickets), a boyfriend who's understandably tempted to turn 30 years old sipping a Bintang on the other side of the world, and my summer-baby's need to get the hell out of England until at least early June.Just a…

• Plastic problems in Cyprus highlighted by Thomas Cook

  Kelly Pipes

  29 Nov 2011 | 5:14 am

  HUNDREDS of plastic water bottles have been used to create a thought-provoking eco-sculpture that stands proudly at Thomas Cook's offices in Peterborough. The statue is of a meditative man and is a replica of Auguste Rodin’s sculpture The Thinker, created in 1902 and now on display in Paris.Made from plastic mineral water bottles, rather than cast in bronze, his job is to make Thomas Cook’s 2,000 staff in Bretton and its overseas suppliers think how they can reduce the mountains of plastic waste holidays can cause.Jo Baddeley, sustainable destinations manager for Thomas Cook, called the…

• Spanish high-speed trains help RENFE scoop travel award

  Kelly Pipes

  8 Nov 2011 | 4:20 am

  Independent travellers in Spain and Portugal have benefited from improved services across the Iberian Peninsula, something celebrated by the international tourism community yesterday.RENFE, the Spanish public rail network won a World Travel Market Global Award at London's Excel, which company president, Teofilo Serrano Beltran collected from WTM Chairman Fiona Jeffery.Fiona said: "The linking up of the Iberian Peninsula through efficient rail links has led to innumerable benefits for both those living in the region and holidaymakers choosing to visit."Travel problems in Spain were fixed by…

• "Gamification" coming to a holiday near you

  Kelly Pipes

  7 Nov 2011 | 10:29 am

  Exploring the architectural glories of Renaissance Florence via the third-person animated pixels of the game Assassin's Creed II is surprisingly gratifying, I admit.For example, sliding down the terracotta curves of Brunelleschi's vast dome atop Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral had crossed my mind in reality (and was quickly crossed out). But as an immortal game-player I've jumped from bell towers, swam across the River Arno and slid down that cathedral dome at full pelt, falling off the side of building and landed in a hay cart miles below. Control pad travel, aboard the PlayStation plane,…

• Stay in Tune for a London city break costing 2p per night

  Kelly Pipes

  10 Oct 2011 | 2:07 pm

  TUNE HOTELS will mark the arrival of their second London hotel tomorrow by giving away rooms for twopence. So even if you only have those two pennies to rub together, you can spend them on a break in the big smoke, sampling the latest offering from the 'limited service hotel' chain that is branching out from Malaysia and Indonesia.City breakers can snap up the 1,000 cheap nights at the new Tune Hotel Liverpool Street, located in Folgate Street, from 8am tomorrow until Friday October 14.Availability of the 2p rooms will be staggered across the special booking period to allow as many different…

• 

  Budget Travel Tips - EuroCheapo

• Switzerland Just Got Cheapo: EuroCheapo launches guides to Geneva and Zurich

  Tom Meyers

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:40 am

  EuroCheapo is pleased (and somewhat surprised) to announce the launch of guides to cheap hotels in Geneva and Zurich. For years we’ve steered clear of these pricey cities (and the country in general), assuming that Switzerland was simply inhospitable to budget travelers. With many hotels starting north of $250, how could any Cheapo afford to visit? It’s the kind of budget travel challenge we love, however. After pounding the (immaculately clean) pavement in both cities, we’re thrilled to announce our new guides. Here are a few things we found along the way: Rooms at…

• When Rail Journeys are Disrupted: Meet the Railteam Alliance

  hiddeneurope

  8 Feb 2012 | 10:14 am

  The great majority of our many rail journeys across Europe work perfectly. Most trains really do arrive punctually. But from time to time Europe’s railways do have bad days, particularly when bad weather rolls in and plays havoc with schedules. When winter strikes In three of the last five winters, we have had at least one trip where we were seriously delayed on journeys back to our Berlin base, in each case not reaching home until a day later than anticipated. And that is just what happened last weekend: what should have been a routine journey from London to Berlin turned out to be a…

• Berlin: Cheapo events calendar for February – June 2012

  Tom Meyers

  7 Feb 2012 | 4:39 pm

  We’re always ready to head to Berlin. However, a number of Cheapo-friendly events taking place over the next several months has us ready to jam, dance, put on a wig and check out some art. (In other words, we’re ready for Berlin.) Here’s a quick run-down of free or cheapish events to attend in Berlin in the first half of 2012: The 62nd Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) February 9-19, 2012 The Berlinale is the city’s largest cultural event, bringing in tens of thousands of film professionals, journalists and fans. Up to 400 films will be shown during the…

• Paris: Cheapo day in the Marais; Free photo exhibit, cheap lunch, vintage shopping

  Theadora Brack

  6 Feb 2012 | 10:57 am

  By Theadora Brack— This week, I decided to get on the horn with the charismatic Caroline Simonds, founder of Le Rire Medecin, a troupe of hospital clowns that are currently the focus of a free photo exhibit at the Hotel de Ville. “Let’s make a Cheapo day of it in Paris,” I told her. Wasting no time, she created a Big Top-worthy tour through the Marais for us. She also threw in a few shopping tips. Grab a pencil and a red rubber nose, too! "Nez rouge, toi-meme" is on display at the Hotel de Ville through February 18, 2012 Free Exhibit: Hôtel de Ville Open: Monday through…

• Dublin When It’s Cold: Fun winter activities

  Jessica Colley

  3 Feb 2012 | 10:48 am

  By Jessica Colley— Winter is one of the best seasons for Cheapos to visit Dublin. Not only are airfares and hotel rates at their cheapest for the year, but the cold temperatures offer a great excuse to get snug in the pub and order up an Irish coffee. From shopping to sports to comedy, there is plenty to do in Dublin when the cold drives Cheapos indoors. Stay warm in Dublin this winter with the following indoor activities: Shopping Music, literature, and design all provide insight into Irish culture. Spend a day shopping at the following stores and find great deals along with local…

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  My year of getting published

• Travelllll.com is hiring writers...

  Liz Lewis (aka <em>'kiwiwriter'</em>)

  31 Jan 2012 | 1:33 pm

  Travelllll.com, a travel blogging and media news site, is looking for a few good writers to provide content on travel blogging trends and the latest trends, news, and products in the online travel market.What they are looking for... People who are passionate about the travel industry. We’re looking for two people who are on the bubble when it comes to the latest trends, news, and products in the online travel market.Good writers. We’re looking for people who can craft some English prose. You don’t have to be Shakespeare. But you should feel pretty comfortable with your…

• Weekly Top 5 Blog Posts for Writers...

  Liz Lewis (aka <em>'kiwiwriter'</em>)

  29 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  1. How to Instantly Transform Your Landing Page Images from Good to Great2. 10 Ways Multi-blog Authors Can Stay Creative and Generate Great Posts 3. Having Trouble Getting Yourself To Write? 9 Tips 4. 8 ways freelance writers earn more by setting their sights higher 5. Are you afraid to pitch to editors? this is the reason you shouldn't be

• 22 Jan 2012 | 12:39 am

  Liz Lewis (aka <em>'kiwiwriter'</em>)

  22 Jan 2012 | 12:39 am

  The British Guild of Travel Writers, in association with Traveller magazine, is holding their third annual travel writing competition for new writers. Only those who have not been published in the travel field are eligible to enter. Entrants are advised to submit an 800-word article with the theme A Revealing Journey."It could be about the journey itself, or being in a destination, that awakened your senses and emotions. Alternatively it could be about your travels as a reflection of a personal journey you have made. Either way, make travel in a destination, or the journey to get…

• TripShock.com Seeks Travel Bloggers...

  Liz Lewis (aka <em>'kiwiwriter'</em>)

  21 Jan 2012 | 12:29 am

  Travel website TripShock.com plans on promoting the Gulf Coast by sending established travel bloggers and reporters down there to experience for themselves. From the press release...The company (TripShock.com) plans to bring down up to five different travel writers or bloggers and offer them complimentary lodging, dining, and tours in the Destin-Panama City Beach region. The dates for this offer will start as early as March of 2012 and go through November.Any travel writers that are interested must contact Greg Fisher at gfisher[at]tripshock[dot]com for more information and details.

• Green Travel Writer wanted...

  Liz Lewis (aka <em>'kiwiwriter'</em>)

  19 Jan 2012 | 2:47 pm

• 

  Go Green Travel Green

• 10 Best Natural and Green Baby Toys

  Kimberly

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:51 am

  It’s a scary world out there for parents. All of the BPA (a hormone disrupter), toxic paints, and phthalates (endocrine disrupters) in pacifiers, teethers, and toys is enough to make a mama want to give up toys altogether.Fortunately, there is an abundance of safe, green toys — from wood trucks and rattles to toys made from silicone, rubber, and recycled plastic — online and in natural toy stores across the country. Here are some of our favorites.Wooden Puzzle Stacker by P’Kolino – $34The puzzle stacker is brightly colored and its rings are easy for little…

• Our 4th Anniversary: Looking Back and What’s Ahead

  Kimberly

  28 Jan 2012 | 5:31 am

  When we launched Go Green Travel Green four years ago today, our goal was to make sustainable travel and living accessible to everyone. We wrote about our travels to Argentina and Belize, the steps we were taking to reduce our environmental impact, and tips for making travel easier and cheaper.We shared tips about finding cheap plane tickets, bidding on Priceline, and learning a language for free. We created guides to help you choose a healthy water bottle, stainless steel cookware, and travel sandals and walking shoes.Our 25 Days to Green Travel took readers through sustainable travel basics…

• Write for Us: We’re Hiring

  Elizabeth

  6 Jan 2012 | 8:26 pm

  Go Green Travel Green is growing and we’re thrilled to announce a job opening for a Travel Writer. If you’re an excellent writer with a travel for passion and environmentalism, we’d love to have you join our team. The job description is below and at http://gogreentravelgreen.com/jobs/.Travel Writer with Environmental FocusDeadline: 1/31/12 or until filledGo Green Travel Green (GGTG) is a leading travel website dedicated to making sustainable travel accessible for everyone. We’re growing and looking for a stellar writer to contribute 4-8 blog posts per month. Each post…

• How to Prevent Bedbugs While Traveling: In 3 Easy Steps

  Elizabeth

  27 Dec 2011 | 9:23 am

  Don’t let bedbugs keep you down during your New Years’ Travel.  Nothing will make you lose sleep faster than wondering if the bed you are sleeping in is secretly harboring creepy crawly blood-sucking bedbugs. Protect your peace of mind by being prepared, taking the proper precautions, and using preventative measures to make sure you don’t inadvertently bring a few unwanted visitors back home with you. Even though the bedbug infestation is widespread, you can travel safely by following a few simple rules at each step of your trip. We put together this helpful checklist so you can sleep…

• Ten Tips for Using Priceline for Car Rentals

  Elizabeth

  20 Dec 2011 | 9:30 am

  You are in the midst of making all the arrangements for your next great adventure and it’s time to finalize your transportation and arrange for a rental car. Although people have been using Priceline’s Name Your Own Price function for years to find great deals on flights, many of us don’t think to do the same for our car rental reservations or don’t feel confident that we can name our own price without missing something and ending up with a non-refundable reservation that isn’t what we needed.Because the discounts Priceline offers through this program can result in a significant…

• 

  Jaunted - The Pop Culture Travel Guide

• Awesome Blog Alert: 'I Am Packed'

  JetSetCD

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:30 pm

  What'd you pack? It's not a question you ask your friends and family when it comes time to zip up the bags and head on out on a trip; it's a question asked by a curious traveling public, of every traveler ever. Yeah, we want to see inside your suitcase or duffel, and though it's true that most of the time it's to compare packing prowess, it's also because the world enjoys stuff. Without further ado, let us introduce the photoblog I Am Packed, which has one purpose: to feature the well laid-out contents of a traveler's bag, plus minimal information about the person (name, age, hometown,…

• Nassau: Where to Smoke, Drink and WiFi When Flying Out of Nassau

  MsRebecca

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:45 pm

  Work on the new international arrivals hall at Nassau's Lynden Pindling International Airport is still underway—but the departures areas are looking pretty nice and, as far as we could tell when flying out on Monday, functioning faster than they did in the past. One improvement you may be interested in if you like a cigar or a stiff drink before waving goodbye to the Bahamas is the Graycliff Divan Airport Lounge. This spinoff of the Graycliff hotel, restaurant and cigar company opened its double lounge—one smoking, one non-smoking—last spring opposte Gate C41 in the US…

• Helsinki: Angry Birds in an Airplane! Kinda Sorta.

  jetflyboy

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:40 am

  We're not going to lie, but Angry Birds might still be our favorite game to play on a plane. It can be played when in airplane mode (ahem, Alec Baldwin) and is the only game that makes us occasionally laugh aloud, all while flinging birds towards mean little pigs. Well, the creators of the game have already announced opening up theme parks designed around the game, but there's more (of course). If you're huge fan and you've already got Angry Birds flip flops, hoodies, keychains and all those little tchotchkes, our recommendation for your next layover in Helskini is to stop pulling the…

• George: How To Get Tickets To The Sasquatch! Festival in Washington

  cmb

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:35 am

  This week the Sasquatch! Festival announced their 2012 lineup featuring some old favorites, like Jack White and Beck, as well as newer groups like Bon Iver. The tenth incarnation of the fest, which will be held on Memorial Day Weekend (May 25-28) at The Gorge Amphitheatre in George, Washington, will also bring the laughs with comedy acts like Tenacious D, the Portlandia duo of Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein, and comedians Nick Kroll, Todd Barry, and Rob Delaney. Four-day passes for Sasquatch! start at $315 (which includes standard camping) and go on sale Saturday, February 11, 2012 at…

• Sugar High, Up High: Five Exceptional Airport Candy Shops

  kjb

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am

  If you’re flying next week, beware the red and pink cheap chocolates of the Hudson News airport outlets. While sending something in advance of Valentine’s Day is probably the best idea, you can always grab something nice for him or her on your way home from the airport, and no we're not talking about flowers from an arrivals hall vending machine. Here’s five airport candy shops that should satisfy any sweetie’s sweet tooth: Sugar Pop - Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport Even if you don’t need something for the upcoming Hallmark holiday, it’s worth it to…

• 

  HotelChatter -

• Quikbook's New Website Pulls Up Hotel Deals Quiker

  juliana

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:05 pm

  There's been a steady slew of hotel booking sites that have launched in the past few years but our tried and true fave is still Quikbook.com which has long been offering cool, boutique hotels that you would actually at for great rates. And now Quikbook's gotten even better, thanks to a site redesign.Don't worry, nothing has drastically changed. Quikbook is still offering its secret sales, invitation-only rates and its standard policy of not charging any booking fees or requiring pre-payment or even cancellation/change penalty fees. But the site is easier to navigate--the buttons are bigger,…

• Noonu Atoll: The Hilton Maldives Opens a Dedicated Champagne Bar, The Bubble Lounge

  juliana

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:00 pm

  As if the Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi needed to get any more luxurious, the five-star resort has just introduced the very first dedicated champagne bar in the Maldives. And yes, it's in an over-water structure.The Bubble Lounge offers the best of the best champagne and sparkling wines, stocking a minimum of 50 varieties at any times. Only ten of them are available by the glass but we're guessing if you can afford a room at the resort, you can afford champagne by the bottle.

• Vancouver: The Opus Hotel Has Been Hit by The Cupid Concierge

  juliana

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:11 pm

  V-Day is now less than a week away and if you've planned on doing a romantical weekend in Vancouver with your honey but are clueless on everything else, then you should probably book a room at the OPUS Hotel where there's now a Cupid Concierge on staff. The cupid concierge even has their own email! (Cupid@OpusHotel.com)This specialty concierge of love is a part of the hotel's Exclusively Yours romance package which has the standard love weekend amenities of bubbly at check-in, more bubbly in the guestroom, fresh flowers, breakfast in bed and a late check-out. The concierge will also set up a…

• Atlantic City: Revel in Atlantic City Will Open Hotel Reservations on March 5

  juliana

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:15 pm

  Gamblers and Jersey Shore lovers alike rejoice! Revel, the crazysexycool-looking casino-hotel complex on the boardwalk in Atlantic City, has just announced today that it will open up reservations for its 1,800 hotel rooms and suites starting March 5. The hotel will then soft-open on April 2 with the hotel fully functional and seven restaurants open. But come May 25 and Memorial Day Weekend, the unofficial start of summer for the Jersey Shore, all of Revel's restaurants, performance spaces, gaming, spa, nightlife and daylife will be open. And they sound freaking amazing, especially Revelry,…

• Singapore: Now THIS is a Hotel Bedside Table

  JetSetCD

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:54 am

  Check it out. This is a bedside table found in the rooms of the Ritz-Carlton Millenia, Singapore. Technically there are two, one for each side of the bed, and though easily overlooked they are some of the most well-designed pieces of functional hotel furniture we've ever seen. Tomorrow we'll take you further into a Deluxe room at the hotel, but for now, let's geek out over furniture design. Here's why we love this table: · Control panel—for both the room lights and the shades—stashed in table, camo as a middle drawer. · Drawer closest to bed has single universal outlet…

• 

  DeliciousBaby.com

• Photo Friday: Ski School

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:21 pm

  Darya and her ski instructor at Whistler Kids We're headed up to Whistler soon for a repeat visit. Our trip last year was the kids' first experience skiing. Darya started day two with uncertainty, she hadn't really gotten the hang of things, and being in the snow is a lot of work. We promised to pick her up a bit early, but when we arrived she was in the middle of her first Green run! My husband and I couldn't have been more surprised, but we were thrilled to be there for the exuberant finish to that first run. She spotted us, waved from afar, and headed right back to the gondola, ready for…

• Weekly Deals for Feb 8

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  Featured Family Travel Deal Darya enjoys an Après-ski cookie at the Four Seasons Ski Concierge in Whistler The Four Seasons Whistler is offering a Family Ski Package that includes your room, lift passes, breakfast and more. My family visited last winter, here's my review of the Four Seasons Whistler The Hyatt Grand in Seattle is offering an American Girl Doll Package. Darya and I are going to check it out ourselves later this month... wish us luck on our very girly mom & daughter slumber party. Aulani, Disney's new resort in Hawaii is offering a sixth night free offer that includes a daily…

• Whistler With Kids: Peak 2 Peak Gondola

  7 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  This is a memory from last year's Family Trip to Whistler Everest was done. Just through. He'd tried skiing for two days, and he hadn't quite gotten into a groove. To make things worse, his baby sister had surpassed him, speeding down the mountain on her first green run while he was still struggling with turns and snowplow stops. Everest is more cerebral than is sister, he needs time to think and reflect, and sports don't come easily to him. With two days of skiing under his belt, I felt that Everest had given the sport a fair try. We'd loop back around later, but at this point, adding a…

• Shhhh. Secret Giveaway: 3 Traveling Toddler Car Seat Travel Accessories

  6 Feb 2012 | 6:33 pm

  As a fun way to reward my regular readers, I'm giving away three Traveling Toddler Car Seat Travel Accessories (one per winner). This product lets you attach a carseat to your rolling bag so that you can cart it through the airport. You can even use it as a stroller with your child sitting in the seat. (One thing to be aware of, you'll need to disassemble it to put everything through the x-ray at airport security.) I'll publicize this giveaway just on Facebook and here, so your odds of winning one of the three accessories is great. To enter, just fill out the form below by Feb 8, 2012 at…

• Photo Friday: Seattle Library Escalator

  2 Feb 2012 | 4:12 pm

  Yellow escalator at the downtown branch of the Seattle Public Library People look at me like I'm a little nutty when I recommend the Rem Koolhaas designed Seattle Public Library as one of the best places to check out when you're visiting Seattle with a toddler. Afterall modern architecture is hardly a mainstay toddler interest. But really, what two year old wouldn't want to ride on that escalator? Related Links Seattle With Kids City Guide What is Photo Friday? Post a travel photo on your site. It can be about any topic, as long as it is G-rated. The focus of the post should be on your photo.

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  Viator Travel Blog

• Meet Private Guide Ricardo in San Jose, Costa Rica!

  Viator

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:21 pm

  Editor’s Note: Viator is proud to introduce some of our new local experts. This network of licensed tour guides covers most every destination you can imagine, so check ‘em out the next time you’re looking for a private tour guide – or simply looking to explore a destination from a local’s perspective. Meet Ricardo Calvo, one of Viator’s local experts in San Jose, Costa Rica (and a highly rated licensed tour guide you’ll find at Viator Private Tour Guides). Meet Private Guide Ricardo Calva! A tour guide with more than 20 years experience, Ricardo is the one to turn to if you need…

• [CONTEST] Win Tickets to an Opera on Sydney Harbour!

  Viator

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:28 am

  For three weeks only beginning March 2012, one of the world’s greatest operas, Verdi’s La Traviata, will be performed in Sydney’s stunning Harbour. Set on a floating stage in one of the world’s most scenic natural theatres, this bold theatrical presentation is the first time this opera has ever been performed on water in Australia. And this month one lucky reader will win two tickets to the spectacular Opera Performance on Sydney Harbour! Win tickets to see La Traviata on Sydney Harbour! About the Performance Extravagant and incredibly romantic, La Traviata is perfect for first-time…

• Top 5 Venice Churches

  Laura

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:30 pm

  It’s never easy trying to make sense of Venice’s meandering backstreets and dead-end alleys, but who in their right mind would try to follow a map in this famously confusing city? When you make it your mission to visit as many churches as you can squeeze into your five-day Venice itinerary, sometimes you just have to put on your reading glasses and do the hard yards. There are around 150 churches scattered across this sprawling city. Having run the gamut of Byzantine and medieval, Renaissance and Baroque, here is my selection of Top 5 Venice churches. And if you’re planning on visiting…

• Top Travel Deals of the Week

  Viator

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:20 am

  Looking for something new and fun to do while traveling this week? Check out the Viator Member-Only Deals available around the globe this week and make the most of your travel budget! Member-Only Deals provide exclusive access to deeply discounted travel deals you won’t find on any other website, with savings ranging from 20% to 75%! Viator members can enjoy instant, on-the-spot availability – but remember, these travel discounts are date-specific and go quickly – so when they’re gone, they’re gone! Choose from a wide array of activities each week in destinations from San Francisco…

• 5 Unexpected Highlights of Budapest, Hungary

  David Whitley

  7 Feb 2012 | 12:31 pm

  In many ways, Budapest is a perfect city break destination. Like many perennial favourites, it is pretty – there are numerous spots for the postcard shot – but there’s also plenty to do. The city has two distinctive characters, split by the River Danube. On the western bank there is staid, leafy and traditional Buda. This is where a lot of the eye candy – such as the Castle District, Matthias Church and Citadel – can be found. Pest, on the eastern bank of the Danube, is where the city’s action and life is to be found. There are some pretty impressive tourist attractions here too,…

• 

  SmarterTravel.com: Travel Deals

• Back on the Menu: Bonus Miles for Dining

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:50 pm

  Members of seven airline and hotel programs can earn bonus miles by spending at least $75 at program restaurants by March 31 and submitting a review within 30 days of the meal.

• Antigua: Luxury All-Inclusive Vacations from $1,485

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:41 am

  Pleasant Holidays is featuring three-night air-inclusive vacations to Antigua from $1,485 per person.

• Book an Orlando Vacation Packages from Just $345

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:36 am

  Pleasant Holidays is featuring four-night Orlando vacations with air from as low as $345 per person through March 11

• Punta Cana: Seven-Night All-Inclusive Vacations from $949

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:24 am

  Apple Vacations is featuring seven-night all-inclusive vacation packages from $949 per person.

• Virgin Islands: Free All-Inclusive Vacation for Teachers

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:23 am

  This gift is way better than an apple for teachers.

• 

  World Hum

• Dispatch from the Yukon Quest Trail

  The World Hum Editors (eva.jt.holland@gmail.com)

  7 Feb 2012 | 1:57 pm

  I’m on the road this week, doing some writing and social media work for the Yukon Quest. For those unfamiliar with it, the Quest is a 1,000-mile sled dog race that runs from Fairbanks, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon (my hometown). I’m following along, and on the trail with me is a traveling crowd of volunteers, veterinarians, race officials, “handlers” (assistants to the mushers), and friends and family. We drive from checkpoint to checkpoint, meeting up with the dog teams whenever they intersect with the sparse road system. I’m writing this from Central Corner, an…

• 2012 Travel Writing Conferences

  The World Hum Editors (eva.jt.holland@gmail.com)

  6 Feb 2012 | 12:22 am

  Spring and summer are fast approaching, and that means warmer days, Major League Baseball and, yes, travel writing conferences. Gadling recently noted several upcoming conferences. Among them: Travel Blog Exchange (TBEX) The annual travel blogger gathering created by Kim Mance lays claim to being “the world’s premiere and largest conference of travel bloggers, writers, and new media creators.” Discussions and workshops explore the art and business of travel blogging, including ethical considerations and social media best practices. For many, it’s a reunion, of sorts:…

• NATJA Announces 2011 Winners

  The World Hum Editors (eva.jt.holland@gmail.com)

  3 Feb 2012 | 2:36 pm

  The complete roster of North American Travel Journalists Association award winners was announced this week. National Geographic Traveler took the grand prize for top travel publication, while Andrew McCarthy and Jill Schensul were named the travel journalists of the year. Several World Hum contributors were also among the winners. Larry Bleiberg took Gold in the Historical or Hobby Travel category, while Daisann McLane received a Gold award for Cultural, Educational or Self-Improvement Travel. Lola Akinmade Akerstrom received two Gold awards—one for Personality and Profiles and one for…

• ‘Downton Abbey’ and the Art of the English Library

  The World Hum Editors (eva.jt.holland@gmail.com)

  2 Feb 2012 | 1:17 am

  Like so many people, I’ve been glued to PBS’ “Downton Abbey” and the scheming and backstabbing unfolding in Highclere Castle. Here, series creator Julian Fellowes discusses his favorite room in the castle: the library. I love his take on it. The French have their drawing rooms. The Austrians have their ballrooms. Libraries, he says, are the rooms the English get right. Watch Downton Abbey: Julian Fellowes on a Favorite Room at Highclere on PBS. See more from Masterpiece.

• Looking for the Old Hippie Trail

  The World Hum Editors (eva.jt.holland@gmail.com)

  31 Jan 2012 | 7:44 am

  At Old World Wandering, Iain Manley has a long, worthwhile post on the classic overlander, mixing his personal experiences as a “novice traveller” on the route with a history of the trail’s literature, from “Across Asia on the Cheap” all the way back to the Romantics of the 1700. Here’s a taste: I knew something of the old Hippie Trail by the time we arrived in Goa, but only as much as I had read in Paul Theroux’s Great Railway Bazaar. Theroux had encountered the freaks making their way out east - “like small clans of tribesmen setting out for a…

• 

  Brave New Traveler

• How do you breathe?

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:40 pm

  RC Cone’s short film about ditching the rat race to explore Montana’s rivers speaks to more than just the fishing enthusiast. Screenshot from video AFTER WATCHING THIS FILM, I considered tossing my laptop into the nearest river. With wages remaining stagnant for almost 40 years and high unemployment threatening to keep it that way, having an unfulfilling job is getting less and less appealing. Stress is going up. The standard of living is going down. Under its “this is what I did” guise, “Breathe” is a call to action. This one film may not be enough to make…

• Our flawed formula for happiness

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:44 pm

  “If happiness is on the other side of success, your brain never gets there.” BACK WHEN I WAS WORKING in the corporate world fixing computer problems, my team’s and my “success” was measured with statistics. The number of tickets taken, the number resolved, the amount of calls picked up, time spent on the phone. Those kinds of numbers. I was consistently a top performer and took pride watching those numbers climb each month, until one. I’d broken a record; I’d fixed more PC problems than anyone else in recorded history that month. You know what the…

• Notes on arranged marriages

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:08 pm

  Author's sister's wedding Lisa Jose is ready for the inevitable, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t have questions. THE PHOTOGRAPH IS black and white. That is not surprising since it was taken 61 years ago. The edges are torn. The dark haired girl sits on a chair looking at the camera, unsmiling. Next to her, a tall man stands erect with his hands awkwardly clutching the back of the chair. “I was 19 when I married your grandfather,” my grandmother tells me. “He came to see me; he asked me my name and what I had studied. Then, a few months later we were…

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  Latest News Headlines - CBS News

• Summary Box: Wheat falls on stockpile forecast

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:05 pm

  Summary Box: Wheat falls on stockpile forecast

• George Clooney on his pet pig

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:04 pm

  Actor tells CBS' "Person to Person" that the pet pig he had for 18 years even used to sleep in his bed - until the pig got too big

• Florida man accused of domestic violence ordered to buy wife flowers, dinner

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:04 pm

  Fla. man was arrested after a dispute over forgetting his wife's birthday allegedly escalated

• Wheat prices fall on record stockpile forecast

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:00 pm

  Wheat prices fall on record stockpile forecast

• Harbinger Group swings to fiscal 1st-qtr profit

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:00 pm

  Harbinger Group swings to fiscal 1st-qtr profit

• 

  Recent Kayak Deals

• $73* & up: Adult-Only Stay: Relax at a Cozumel Beach Resort

  7 Feb 2012 | 11:14 am

  Mexican getaway stay incl. first class activities

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• 

  Perceptive Travel Blog

• Celtic Songs of Love and Loss: A Stor Mo Chroí

  Kerry Dexter

  8 Feb 2012 | 1:02 am

  Songs, stories, and tunes from the Celtic world have a way of holding both joy and melancholy together in the same piece of music. It might be through a contract of words and melody, through a turn of phrase that may be taken more ways than one, or through a haunting pattern of notes. Whatever way this happens, it’s music that encourages and invites a listener to come in and explore the story. That sort of thing works especially well when it comes to love songs, an idea which is taken well into account in both song choices and song sequence in the two disc set A Stor Mo Chroi, a recording…

• A Different Kind of Medical Tourism

  Alison Stein Wellner

  7 Feb 2012 | 12:45 pm

  Of course you are obsessed with death. Everyone alive is, we all know it’s out there, waiting for us.  The only thing that varies between people is the depth and degree of repression of this knowledge. Travel, of course, is not about death. Travelers don’t like to think about demise, as a topic — except for the legions who visit cemeteries, concentration camps battlefields, memorials, slums and sites of natural disasters. And anything to do with the Titanic. A theory: travelers have a preference for death by war or natural disaster, which seem avoidable by dint of geography…

• The February edition of Perceptive Travel

  Liz Lewis

  6 Feb 2012 | 2:46 am

  From the eccentric to the spiritual to the dangerous, this latest edition of the award winning Perceptive Travel webzine provides armchair traveller with thought provoking travel stories. Regular contributor Bruce Northam kicks off this edition of Perceptive Travel webzine with A Different State of Mine in Canada’s Yukon Territory, discovering his own inner grown-up in the place full of ‘bearded brew-sippers, sassy female bartenders sporting armpit hair, and at-home First Nations artists’.   In Setting Foot on Celtic Sod, Becky Garrison’s traveler’s pilgrimage to Glendolough…

• At the Buenos Aries Thieves Market, Reputation Meets Reality

  Tim

  5 Feb 2012 | 8:49 am

  By Camille Cusumano “Everywhere I look I see dead eyes,” thinks a Buenos Aires expat as she visits the Feria la Salada, a market that lives up to its reputation for danger and desperation. “You cannot go to this market, es muy peligroso,” said my friend Carmen. I watched her big blue eyes bug out, emphatic with the probability of harm befalling me if I went to Feria la Salada. We sat in the comfort of my 10th floor apartment in Recoleta, Buenos Aires’s upper-crust barrio. Another Argentine friend, Oscar, nodded in agreement with Carmen. I had just greeted him…

• Quiet moments: Western Highlands of Scotland

  Kerry Dexter

  4 Feb 2012 | 1:02 am

  The road to Fort William, in the western highlands of Scotland, travels along the banks of Loch Lomand and rises up through the mountains near Glen Coe. The road, and the weather, are ever changing, offering landscapes such as this one That ever changing weather and that winding road are two reasons I choose to do this journey with Citylink, the bus service which has routes covering most of Scotland. If you’re think wait, I’ve not had the best experiences with travel by bus, I’ll say that I’ve found Citylink coaches (that’s what long distance buses are called in Scotland) to be…

• 

  Travel news, travel guides and reviews | guardian.co.uk

• Country diary: South Uist: The effortless dip of a harrier's wing

  Christine Smith

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:59 pm

  South Uist: There's something other-worldy about the hen harrier as it slices through the air with its sharp silvery beautyThe loch lies like a pool of blue silk among the pale yellow of the winter reeds. Beyond it the land rises, the grass patterned with expanses of brown heather, while in the distance the cool grey slopes of Beinn Mhor reach up to a sky of unbroken blue. A male hen harrier – grey and white with black-tipped wings – appears as if from nowhere, flying low over the ground. Pale against the clear winter colours of the landscape, there is something magical and otherworldly…

• All cruise ship passengers to get safety briefings before leaving port

  Gwyn Topham

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:15 pm

  New rules announced by cruise liner industry in wake of the Costa Concordia disasterEvery cruise ship passenger will be given a mandatory safety briefing, including on-ship evacuation procedure, before leaving port under new rules announced by the industry in the wake of the Costa Concordia disaster.The three major organisations representing cruise lines have agreed that the passenger safety briefing, or muster drill, must take place immediately rather than within 24 hours as currently required under maritime law.When the Costa Concordia ran aground off the Italian coast on 13 January,…

• Win a Mr & Mrs Smith hotel gift card worth £250

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:51 am

  For your chance to win a Mr & Mrs Smith hotel gift card worth £250 just tell us your dream destination

• Lake District 'hate triangle' absorbs playgoers in icy Cumbria

  Alan Sykes

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:21 am

  Strong stuff at the Theatre by the Lake, whose annual audience has risen from 20,000 to 130,000 over the last decadeKnives in Hens was the Scottish playwright David Harrower's first play, written in 1993 when he was only 27. It enjoyed immediate success and has been performed in 25 different countries. Not so much a love triangle as a hate one, the scene is set in a pre-industrial rural society, with a ploughman, his wife and the village miller as the only characters. This is no bucolic bliss: along the cool sequestered vale of their lives are hints of paedophilia and bestiality to go…

• Baby-friendly hotel in Normandy

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:15 am

  An 1870s chateau in Normandy manages to be family-friendly and easy-going, yet with a dash of opulence and glamourWalk into Le Castel, a country house in the rural west of Normandy, and the first impression is of opulence. Chandeliers hang from the double-height ceiling, with doors leading out on to a terrace and a blindingly green expanse of lawn. The period furniture is dotted with vases of flowers and candelabras. There is even a baby grand piano. Then smaller details come into focus – a half-full pack of wet wipes on a window sill; an infant seat pushed next to the dining table, the rug…

• 

  Lonely Planet blog

• Winter from your window: our top 20 picks

  Javier Panero

  3 Feb 2012 | 5:42 am

  Lonely Planet’s Winter from your Window competition, where we encouraged our followers to submit pictures of what they could see from their windows via our Facebook page, closed recently. We have had a great response, with a total of 411 pictures submitted between the 16th and 31st of January. The standard of the competition was so high, we have had to mull it over for several days – some members of the judging panel even consulted with their pillows before reaching a conclusion… Some of you interpreted “taking a picture from your window” loosely, so we got some…

• Travel Adventures competition – Terms & Conditions

  Javier Panero

  31 Jan 2012 | 8:21 am

  Thanks for entering Lonely Planet’s Travel Adventures competition. Here’s some important stuff you should know. Who’s running the show? The promoter is Lonely Planet Publications Pty Limited (ABN 36 005 607 983) of 90 Maribyrnong Street, Footscray, Victoria 3011 Australia.  Our friends at Nokia at Nokia House,  Keilalahdentie, 02150, Espoo, Finland are our promotional partner. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. You understand that you are providing your information to Lonely Planet, and not to Facebook. Information about…

• 30 travel terms that don’t exist but should

  Andy Murdock

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:15 pm

  The Oxford English Dictionary contains over 600,000 unique words – surely enough to describe any situation, one would think. But as any traveler knows, the world has a way of confronting us with sights and experiences that can leave even the smartest among us at a loss for words. Sometimes we’re limited by our vocabularies, but often the word we need to describe what we’ve seen and done simply doesn’t exist…yet. Thankfully, languages can evolve and grow to meet our needs, so here are 30 highly useful brand-new travel words and phrases to liven up your next…

• Get answers from the Book of Everything

  Javier Panero

  20 Jan 2012 | 4:27 am

  Have you ever found yourself slogging up the side of a mountain, silently wishing you had known how to shed a few pounds from that backpack before starting out? Or perhaps you once wound up at a posh English country house for the weekend, but didn’t know the correct etiquette for pouring and passing the port after dinner? To travel is to ask questions of the world around you. Confronting the unknown is one of the reasons we do it, right? The questions that exercise travellers’ minds embrace everything from the general (what colour are the buses in Africa?) to the specific (is that my…

• Top 5 most suggestive US state tourism slogans

  Robert Reid

  18 Jan 2012 | 1:46 pm

  The USA’s least-visited state, North Dakota raised eyebrows recently, with a ‘flirty’ tourism ad ‘aimed at Canadians’ that suggested Fargo nightlife could lead to ‘legendary’ status in amorous matters del noche. The shot, one of 10 new ads, showed three women stopping on a Fargo sidewalk to chat with two guys — drinking beer! — with the caption: ‘Drinks, dinner, decisions. Arrive a guest. Leave a legend.’ Wink-wink, nudge-nudge, know-what-I-mean? After some viewers found it ‘sickening,’ North Dakota Tourism took…

• 

  Just Checking In

• Rewards Points Benefit Charitable Organizations!

  6 Feb 2012 | 3:51 pm

  As a Priority Club Rewards member, I was pretty stoked to see that PCR points could be donated as charitable contributions to organizations like the Red Cross to assist in urgent relief efforts in places such as Japan and New Zealand.Kudos to IHG and Priority Club Rewards.  For those business travelers who rack up so many rewards points that they don't know what to do with them, or for those members who enjoy the perks IHG hotels provide Priority Club members, but typically don't do much in the way of redeeming points, here's a fantastic option for you! Details on the Red Cross and…

• Happy Holidays from Landmark Hotel Group!

  24 Dec 2011 | 4:03 pm

• Happy Hotel People

  23 Nov 2011 | 8:00 am

  Meet the staff of the Candlewood Suites Virginia Beach, as well as the senior management team of the Landmark Hotel Group, and a video that has become quite a hit with Candlewood Suites Virginia Beach guests... as well as anyone else who's had the chance to view it!

• 10 Years After

  9 Sep 2011 | 10:10 pm

• Summer is for Reruns

  3 Aug 2011 | 8:28 am

  I had a co-worker suggest the other day that someone come up with a list of vocabulary words hoteliers use. I told him it had already been done, so thought I'd share it here in the form of a "rerun" from a post I put up in December 2007 called "L-I-N-G-O."Happy learning!

• 

  LandLopers

• News and Deals: February 9, 2012 – TSA to expand PreCheck program to speed up airport security lines, Mexico looks for rebound in US tourists, American Airlines creditors want to talk merger and Journey to the unknown with ‘mystery’ travel

  Matt Long

  9 Feb 2012 | 6:21 am

  TSA to expand PreCheck program to speed up airport security lines ‎Los Angeles Times A program that lets preapproved air travelers zip through faster security lines will be expanded this year to 35 of the nation’s largest airports, Transportation Security Administration officials announced Wednesday. The pilot program, dubbed PreCheck, lets travelers who get TSA clearance avoid what have become the most annoying steps of post-9/11 screening: removing shoes, belt and coats. Continue Reading Mexico looks for rebound in US tourists msnbc.com After a few years in which drug-fueled…

• Travel Snobbery and the Importance of Being a Corny Tourist in Paris

  Matt Long

  8 Feb 2012 | 10:55 pm

  You may have noticed that if I like something, I tend to write about it a lot. You only need search the site for posts on Jordan and New Zealand to see the results of my travel affection. Well my first, and still dearest, travel love hasn’t been well represented here, a fact that causes me some concern lest you think I have fallen out of love with what is arguably the best city in the world – Paris. We were last there again in December and as we left the city on the snazzy Thalys train, I began to think about what makes Paris so special not just for me, but for millions of people…

• News and Deals: February 8, 2012 – Air France advises fliers to postpone travel, Maldives crisis triggers tourist cancellations, Plastic water bottles banned at Grand Canyon and Egypt expects tourist numbers up despite clashes

  Matt Long

  8 Feb 2012 | 5:29 am

  Air France advises fliers to postpone travel  Los Angeles Times Air France said it would cancel almost half its long-haul flights Tuesday on the second day of a strike by French pilots, flight attendants and other workers. The airline advised passengers to postpone their trips until after Friday. Passengers who have tickets to fly during the strike, scheduled to end Thursday, can change their plans to fly later this month without incurring a penalty or change fees, Air France said. They may postpone their travel as late as April 23 if the same fare is available; otherwise, they would have to…

• The Cartoon Walk – Looking for the 9th Art in Brussels

  Matt Long

  7 Feb 2012 | 10:55 pm

  I couldn’t help but notice that her clothes were pretty small for what was a well formed physique. What was even more strange was that she was a cat. Cartoon cat actually and just one of the many ways in which Brussels pays homage to the 9th art, the comic strip. Brussels didn’t invent the comic strip, but it may as well have. Since the 1920s, Belgian artists have been on the forefront of cartoon art from Tintin to the Smurfs and countless others throughout the years. Brussels pays homage to this love affair in a variety of ways, but the most obvious is the cartoon art found…

• News and Deals: February 7, 2012 – 3 cruise ships disinfected after norovirus outbreaks over the weekend, US Travel To Cuba Grows As Restrictions Are Eased, Gabon: Surfing hippos, lacking tourists and Economy fliers at no greater risk for clots

  Matt Long

  7 Feb 2012 | 5:48 am

  3 cruise ships disinfected after norovirus outbreaks over the weekend Washington Post A third U.S.-based cruise ship with an outbreak of stomach illness has sailed again after being decontaminated in South Florida. The vessel Ruby Princess sailed Sunday from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades. It was one of three cruise ships that docked in Florida and Louisiana over the weekend with outbreaks of norovirus. Continue Reading   US Travel To Cuba Grows As Restrictions Are Eased NPR Cuba is the only country in the world the U.S. government restricts its own citizens from visiting. Americans…

• 

  Indie Travel Podcast

• Auckland lantern festival in photos

  Craig Martin

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:00 am

  We’ve just entered the year of the dragon, and it marks the first full cycle of the Chinese new year for the Auckland lantern festival, held in Albert Park each year. This year’s lantern festival seemed twice as big and twice as busy for us… at least alongside the food stalls which showcase the best of Asia’s streetfood traditions. Here’s some of our favourite shots from the evening — taken between polishing off dumplings, running into friends, and enjoying the live music. Click any image to enlarge. [Show as slideshow] What now? Take a look at more…

• Ayutthaya, Thailand, by bike and boat

  Linda Martin

  6 Feb 2012 | 11:00 am

  Ayutthaya, one of Thailand’s ex-capitals, is located about 90 minutes’ drive from the present capital, Bangkok. It’s packed with remnants from its glory days, and makes a great day trip from Bangkok, especially if you hop on a bike as we did. We caught a minivan from Bangkok central and were met at the Ayutthaya end by our guide Nhoi from Ayutthaya Boat and Travel. After a quick stop at the office to pick up bikes and another guide, we were off. The first stop was at one of the most beautiful information centres I’d ever been in, full of intricate models and…

• Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

  Linda Martin

  3 Feb 2012 | 11:00 am

  Rio de Janeiro’s famous statue of Christ the Redeemer is located on the top of Corcovado mountain. It’s a symbol of the city and of Brazil, and a visit to the top of the hill to see it up close is a must-do on the itinerary of most visitors to the city. Many tourists visit by organised tour, usually as part of a day tour that takes in some of Rio’s other sights — such as the Selarón steps, the cathedral and the Sugar Loaf. You can visit independently by catching the Trem do Corcovado (Corcovado train) for R$36, by hiring a car or taking a taxi — or you can just…

• Carnival in Rio de Janeiro – the world’s biggest party

  Craig and Linda

  1 Feb 2012 | 5:06 pm

  Carnival, or Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is one of the world’s biggest parties. This week we speak with Joel Ward from Freedonia Post about his experiences learning to samba and enjoying a few drinks in Rio. To listen, hit play below or look for episode 226 in iTunes: The basis of carnival A lot of people think Carnival only happens in Rio, but that’s not true. The whole thing is rooted in the Catholic religious calendar — this is the beginning of the Lent period of fasting, and if you’re going to fast for 40 days, you might as well party like anything to kick it…

• Win $75 in travel prizes!

  Craig and Linda

  1 Feb 2012 | 12:01 am

  This month, you can win $50 worth of Urban Adventure day tours in one of over 100 cities, plus $25 of Indie Travel books to help you plan your trip! Use the entry form below to enter the draw. a Rafflecopter giveaway You need javascript enabled to see this giveaway. How to win… It’s easy! Fill in the three mandatory entries by clicking “Do it!” on each one, then: ‘Like’ Indie Travel Podcast on Facebook – then click “Enter!” ‘Like’ Urban Adventures on Facebook – then click “Enter!” Answer the simple question…

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  Bizarre Foods

• Seattle’s Best

  Andrew Zimmern

  3 Feb 2012 | 11:59 am

  Seattle is one of the great food towns on the planet, and visiting in the summertime is something that food lovers should check out for themselves. In our show we covered a lot of familiar territory, but there are a few things to clarify, on screen, and off. First…yes, the cow placenta was real. It tasted like liver. I have wanted to try this for a decade, but with placenta, freshness counts. This was the first birthing in a clean enough environment at the right farm (thanks George!) and I was thrilled. Like the colostrum, this is a traditional superfood that is part of our ethnographic…

• There’s no place like NOLA

  Andrew Zimmern

  30 Jan 2012 | 11:15 am

  Is there any city in America that evokes such a profound salivary response as New Orleans? Just listen to the name, and you can taste it. Every time I visit New Orleans, I’m reminded of how truly special this city is. From the amazing food to the robust music scene, there is serious passion pulsating through the Big Easy. A mix of influence from Europe, Africa, the West Indies and the American South, you can’t really put your finger on what New Orleans feels like. It’s unlike anywhere else in the US, or the world for that matter. Bringing Bizarre Foods America here was a…

• Minnesota Nice

  Andrew Zimmern

  20 Jan 2012 | 10:58 am

  Bizarre Foods America, your time has come. The need for Americans to see themselves as we really are (talking ‘bout you Kardashians!), the desire I have to make the unfamiliar familiar, and the bloodlust for the type of insider information that is actionable makes this the best season of Bizarre Foods ever. I mean really, how many of you went to Maun Botswana and from there to the Aha Hills like I told you to? Now there are no excuses, especially since we kick off the series in the Twin Cities– the place I’ve called home since 1992. I leaned on lots of friends and family, former…

• All-New Season: Bizarre Foods America!

  Andrew Zimmern

  16 Jan 2012 | 5:25 pm

  Hello World, we are back. See our air dates below for the FIRST HALF of our most amazing season yet. We went All-American for a few reasons. First, after 5 years on the road overseas I wanted to see if my theories about food and culture applied at home the same way they do in far off lands. I wanted to see if Darwins theory about islands as preservation points applied to inner cities and the immigrant experience. I wanted to see if social change and entrepreneurism could solve the food crisis in our country. I wanted to see if I could get a good bowl of laksa in the Midwest. I wanted to show…

• From Texas Field to D.C. Table

  Andrew Zimmern

  18 Nov 2011 | 11:40 am

  As you’ve probably noticed on BF, it’s not always about sitting down and enjoying a meal. Sometimes you gotta work for your dinner. That’s when you look to the folks at Broken Arrow Ranch– an artisanal producer free-range venison, antelope, and wild boar meat. The family-owned business out of Texas Hill Country is serious about their meat, field harvesting only truly wild animals. I was thrilled to hit the field with these guys, hoping to track a deer. After a full day of hunting, I ended up getting the beautiful sika deer (pictured above)– an Asian species that…

• 

  nerd's eye view

• The Castaways at Urban Coffee Lounge

  nerd's eye view

  8 Feb 2012 | 3:34 pm

  We’re doing it again. At the Urban Coffee Lounge in Kirkland, Friday, February 10th. Event details on the Facebook. “Like” us to find out where we’re playing next. Oh, and we have a snappy new website.

• Guest Post: More Than a Travel Writer

  nerd's eye view

  8 Feb 2012 | 8:14 am

  On a recent flight to New York City, my seat mate asked me what I did for a living. Still high from the release of my first book, I was all too happy to tell him I was a bona fide, true blue, working American writer. Two days post-release, I’m not afraid to say I was feeling pretty darn giddy about it. We chatted about the book for a few minutes before he asked, “So how does one get to write a book these days?” “Oh, well, I’m a freelance writer,” I started to explain. “Before the book, I wrote for magazines, mostly science and a lot travel stuff…” “Wait—you’re a travel…

• The Bubble Waffle Lady

  nerd's eye view

  6 Feb 2012 | 1:36 pm

  We were in Richmond, BC in January and one of the places our guides (the stellar ladies of Richmond PR, thanks Kristen and Stacey!) took us to Mrs. Ma’s bubble waffle stand in the Parker Place food court. Mrs. Ma was quite the waffle show-woman, delighted to show off for us gringos. Plus, the waffles? Yummy. Warm, a little eggy tasting, and sweet and crunchy, nothing short of a perfect snack on a cold afternoon.

• Guest Post: Welcome to the Jungle

  nerd's eye view

  6 Feb 2012 | 10:08 am

  When the plane starts to head for the ground, I crane my neck to see what’s ahead. Seated in the co-pilot’s seat of a six-seater bush plane, all I can see is the same thing I’ve been looking at for the entire 45 minute flight, a vast pincushion of endless green forest canopy. We skim the treetops and finally, seconds before hitting the ground, I see the grass landing strip. A couple of bumps, and we have arrived in the tiny village of Quehueri’ono in Ecuador ’s Amazon rainforest. My husband and I are here to spend five days at Huaorani Ecolodge, a community project organized by…

• Guest Post: Chasing Mardi Gras Indians

  nerd's eye view

  4 Feb 2012 | 8:00 am

  An emerald sedan sped past with a black man standing in the passenger seat—the yellow feathers of his headdress streaming out the sun roof. “Follow that Indian!” Glen swung a quick U-turn on Rampart Street, the northwest division between the French Quarter and the Tremé—the nation’s oldest African American neighborhood. The car now headed east towards the Faubourg Marigny, another boundary of the Quarter. We’d been up since 8 a.m. searching for Mardi Gras Indians in New Orleans on an unseasonably warm March 19th—St. Joseph’s Day. A newspaper had published the parade schedule,…

• 

  About.com France Travel

• Last Minute Ski Deals from UK Companies

  5 Feb 2012 | 5:01 am

  The snow has been falling and the slopes on the French ski resorts are top quality. But a slow start to the season meant that many people held off booking or went elsewhere. So there are plenty of bargains out there, even over the half-term holidays. Here are a few suggestions from some small specialised companies in the U.K. Even if you don't use them this time, it's worth keeping their details for future ski holidays:...Read Full Post

• Little Dunkerque's Mighty Carnival

  1 Feb 2012 | 3:39 am

  For many of us, carnivals are usually associated with the south of France, and Christmas markets with the north. But both Christmas markets and carnivals are celebrated throughout France with equal gusto so wherever you are, you'll find one....Read Full Post

• Strasbourg's February Fleamarket

  29 Jan 2012 | 2:12 am

  Shopping in French fleamarkets is a particular pleasure. Some cities specialize in gathering dealers together at fixed dates. Strasbourg has four brocantes or fleamarkets a year and the next two in February and April (7th and 8th) give you the chance to seek out all sorts of old items, some valuable, some possibly less so except in terms of the pleasure that an old set of cutlery, grape scissors or a vintage frock might give you ....Read Full Post

• P&O Ferries Massive New Ferry

  26 Jan 2012 | 8:52 am

  When P&O commissioned its two massive new ferries, the company had no idea that its main rival, SeaFrance, would go into liquidation. But what timing for P&O. Until a new ferry company takes over SeaFrance or sets up a rival, the considerable freight and passenger traffic is using P&O and its expanding fleet....Read Full Post

• Sooo British in Strasbourg

  23 Jan 2012 | 2:57 am

  From November 2011 to May 2012, during the period of the UK Presidency of the Council of Europe, Strasbourg is celebrating all things British. So if you want British style, and art, and architecture, film, food, dance and, well, British culture generally, then the Alsatian capital is the place to visit....Read Full Post

• 

  Hotels

• Family Fun Night with Shrek and Friends at the Gaylord Hotels

  Jodi Grundig

  7 Feb 2012 | 4:05 pm

  The Atrium at the Gaylord National I’ve raved before about how much I love the Gaylord Hotels, and I’m so thrilled that they’ve recently partnered with Dreamworks to create a more family-friendly experience at their hotels. Now, they are offering Family Fun Nights with Shrek and Friends on special nights in February and March 2011.  These nights are the perfect way for kids to really enjoy themselves in a family vacation experience! The Family Night Nights start at $99 per person, double occupancy, and include the following: Accommodations at a Gaylord Hotels resort for a…

• Modern Luxury at AVIA Long Beach, California

  Jill K. Robinson

  7 Feb 2012 | 11:40 am

  Relax in an AVIA Long Beach Grand King room Tired of staying in the same big hotels with no personality? On your Long Beach vacation, snag a room at the AVIA Long Beach, and enjoy living well without depleting your bank account. The boutique hotel’s 138 rooms include crisp linens, Italian-cotton coverlet, McCartan-designed furniture and lighting fixtures, complimentary wired and wireless Internet, MP3 docking station, large bathroom with walk-in shower and waterfall shower head, coffeemaker and flat-panel TV. My room, a Grand King, included a seating area and office space, so I could get my…

• February Break Family Getaway Package at the Ocean Edge Resort

  Jodi Grundig

  6 Feb 2012 | 7:20 pm

  The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort Are you still looking for something to do with your family for February school vacation (which is in just two short weeks here)?  It’s probably too late to book a flight somewhere, but if you are driving distance to Cape Cod, the February Break Family Getaway Package at the Ocean Edge Resort in Brewster is a great family vacation option.  Today, in Massachusetts, the temperature was in the 50s, so it’s entirely possible that the temperature in February will be above average! The February Break Family Getaway package is available February 17-26,…

• Valentine’s Weekend at the Sea Crest Beach Hotel on Cape Cod

  Jodi Grundig

  31 Jan 2012 | 8:41 am

  The Sea Crest Beach Hotel Most people don’t think of Cape Cod, Massachusetts as a great winter vacation spot, but for Valentine’s Day weekend, it may be the best spot around.  Even in the winter, it’s incredibly scenic, and February should be a nice and quiet time for a romantic weekend.  In addition, the weather here in Massachusetts has actually been unseasonably warm – so you should be able to walk around town without needing to be completely bundled up. The Sea Crest Beach Hotel in North Falmouth, MA, is offering an “Escape to the Cape” getaway on…

• Unveiling of The Verve, Crowne Plaza Natick

  Jodi Grundig

  30 Jan 2012 | 10:26 am

  Violet Thorn at the Verve, Crown Plaza Natick Last week, the Crowne Plaza in Natick, Massachusetts, right across from the Natick Mall (the largest indoor mall in New England), revealed their metamorphosis into The Verve, Crowne Plaza Natick.  The 18-month, $25 million renovation turned the standard business hotel into a Metrowest Boston hotspot. The lobby bar, once a standard hotel bar, has been rebranded to Violet Thorn, a flashy bar which is more reminiscent of Vegas than Metrowest Boston.  The old steakhouse restaurant has been completely transformed into the Pantry, a retro restaurant…

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  Family Travel

• Stay Clear of the Perils of Winter Driving

  2 Feb 2012 | 7:06 pm

  Never underestimate the potential dangers of winter weather driving. With a little forethought you can protect yourself, your family and other drivers.

• Indoor Adventure Sports Destinations

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:09 am

  Tired of the cold weather? Try these family-friendly travel destinations that bring outdoor sports indoors.

• Consider These Issues Before Vacationing With Friends

  3 Jan 2012 | 7:19 pm

  Vacations with friends should be fun. Several issues should be discussed prior to the trip to create a more likely successful memory.

• Holiday Festivities at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, CA

  6 Dec 2011 | 10:20 am

  For family friendly holiday celebrations in Southern California, the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offers festive Christmas and New Year's Eve activities.

• Seven Reasons Why Babies Should Fly in Car Seats

  27 Nov 2011 | 3:39 pm

  Babies under age two can usually fly without cost if carried on a parent's lap. Flying with a baby on a parent's lap saves money, but may compromise safety.

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  Cheapest Destinations Blog - Travel the World!

• Europe’s Crisis Takes Down 2 Airlines (so far…)

  tim

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:17 am

  The past couple weeks haven’t been so hot for airline passengers in Europe. On January 30, Spain’s SpanAir abruptly shut down, leaving some 22,000 ticket holders stranded. It had been propped up with nearly $200 million in subsidies, a situation that was hard to justify given Spain’s precarious financial condition. At least Spain still has [...] Related posts:A Rundown on Mexican Budget Airlines Bargain Travel Time in Hungary How do you feel about extra airline fees?

• Escaping a Thieves Market, Veering off the Irish Tourist Trail, and Losing Yourself in the Yukon

  tim

  5 Feb 2012 | 9:30 am

  The February issue of Perceptive Travel is now out, fresh off our racking up a record six best travel writing awards from the North American Travel Journalists Association. We could just kick back and bask in the glow of our medals, but no, we’re going to keep cranking out interesting, unique, offbeat travel stories for [...] Related posts:Three Versions of Paradise in Oahu, Ireland, and Colombia The Happiest Country, the Driest Landscape, and the Most Loved Dog in the World Tranquilandia, Outback Pubs, and a Hang Gliding Leap of Faith

• Best Travel Blog (This One)

  tim

  2 Feb 2012 | 1:55 pm

  Sometimes this Cheapest Destinations Blog gets picked in some readers poll or an individual writer gives me a shout-out. But for the second year in a row I’ve been named one of the top travel blogs by the North American Travel Journalists Association. This one’s judged on writing and usefulness, not just how many people [...] Related posts:At Post #997, This Blog Rocks A Blog with Quality Writing and Staying Power Turns 4 Early Reviews for Travel Writing 2.0 Book

• Cheap Travel News and Views, Early 2012

  tim

  31 Jan 2012 | 9:13 am

  Time to check in with the travel news and blogosphere to bring home some timely news and tips for travelers on a budget. I’m quoted in this article from Kiplinger Personal Finance: Your guide to bargain travel in 2012. (If you prefer, here’s just the airfare part of it at the Chicago Tribune instead.) If [...] Related posts:Pricing News from Cheap Destinations – September 2011 Travel Safety in Perspective: USA vs. Mexico Can You Still Do Vegas on the Cheap?

• Consumers Finally Win One: Real Airfare Prices

  tim

  27 Jan 2012 | 8:43 am

  Despite the millions airlines poured into lobbying against it, as of yesterday the U.S. Department of Transportation has mandated that all flights operating in the U.S. must display the entire airfare up front in the booking process. If an airline advertises a sale price, it must be the real total price, not “before taxes and [...] Related posts:Which Airline Fees Do You Want to Know Up Front? How do you feel about extra airline fees? A Rundown on Mexican Budget Airlines

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  Travel the Home Exchange Way

• Happy 200th birthday, Charles Dickens!

  Home Base Holidays

  7 Feb 2012 | 6:30 am

  Follow in his footsteps on a home exchange in England Today marks an important international literary celebration: Charles' Dickens 200th birthday. As well as being a prolific author, Charles Dickens was a social commentator whose observations on the vast divide between the rich and the poor are unfortunately still relevant in the 21st century. A well known quote from David Copperfield is as apt today as it was in 1849: 'Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen six, result happiness. Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pound ought and six, result misery.' I…

• How to find family friendly home exchange offers

  Home Base Holidays

  4 Feb 2012 | 5:31 am

  In a recent Q & A post below, Must a family live in a super luxurious home to home swap?, we gave some ideas on how to find homes for exchange most likely to be suitable for families with young children. The starting point is to limit search results to members who have indicated 'children welcome' in their offers. Note the little icon to the left beside these listings in search results. You will also see the number and ages of children in full listings. Although many homes will be safe for young children (grandparents who regularly have their grandchildren to stay for instance), most…

• Home Swappers, the Home Exchange Newsletter, February 2012

  Home Base Holidays

  3 Feb 2012 | 4:19 am

  The February issue of Home Swappers Newsletter is now available. Topics: Featured listing: Victorian London townhouse near Notting Hill Home Base Holidays exclusive: join Global Home Exchange for just $1 Under 6 months to go to the 2012 Olympics: time to plan a home swap! Trip report: home exchanges and house sitters - tips for newcomers Household insurance during a home swap Read articles on home exchange in this issue in full and in previous issues of Home Swappers Newsletter, in the Newsletter Archive. Subscribe to receive the newsletter as published.

• Home exchange Q & A: Must I live in a super luxurious home to home swap?

  Home Base Holidays

  28 Jan 2012 | 5:15 am

  Q: My partner and I live in Blackheath, which I think is a lovely area in South London. We live with our two young sons (3 years and 9 months). I belong to a popular online group for mums and saw an advert for their home swap service. This sounded ideal but when I checked their site all the homes were ridiculously posh (like really really luxurous!) plus it was so expensive to join especially when I doubt anyone on the site would want to stay in my normal (but nice!) home. A friend suggested that I check out your site as she'd had good experiences with Homebase. It's really good to see that…

• Beautiful 17th century thatched cottage (40minutes from London!)

  Home Base Holidays

  26 Jan 2012 | 10:51 pm

  Beautiful 17th century thatched cottage surrounded by a charming and tranquil garden. The setting is rich in wildlife, perfect for walking, cycling, fishing and horse-riding. Many good pubs nearby for food and drink. Excellent transport links to London (40 mins by train to Kings Cross), the historic town of Saffron Walden is a 15 minute drive and Cambridge is a 30 minute drive. Exchange Request: UK, Open to offers View full Home Swap listing…

• 

  Twitter Travels

• Journey to the West: Yosemite National Park

  admin

  23 Jan 2012 | 3:59 pm

  People are always eager to tweet their experiences, especially when it comes to traveling. With so many popular travel destinations and modes of transportation, sometimes it’s a little overwhelming trying to plan that perfect vacation. If you’re looking for a trip centered on nature and natural wonders, then there’s one sure place you should go: Yosemite National Park in California. This massive park covers over 750,000 acres, spreading across the majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range. Every year, close to 3.7 visitors come every year from all over the United States. You could be one of…

• Tweet This!

  admin

  1 Dec 2011 | 1:00 pm

  We established this site to catalog interesting tweets and, in general promote the world of the twitters as it pertains to travel.  It’s always a work in progress and we’re always open to new ideas.  Hit us up…contribute…read our stuff…do it all…and thank you!  

• 

  Moms Minivan Blog

• Rolling Reviews from the Backseat – Dr Doom’s Fear Fall

  Road Trip Mom

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:42 am

  Road Trip review from Big Bro, one of Road Trip Mom’s kids! The most thrilling ride for me  at the Universal Studios Theme Park was in the Islands of Adventure park, and it is called Dr. Doom’s Fear Fall. You enter the ride with your party and are isolated from the other riders.  Before the ride begins, a scary voice comes on and tells you that all safety protocol will be ignored.  Then shoots you straight up into the air at what seems like a million miles an hour, and as soon as it gets to the top it shoots you downwards faster than gravity can pull you. I had a great deal of fun…

• Rolling Reviews from the Backseat: Rip Ride Rock-It Rollercoaster

  Road Trip Mom

  30 Jan 2012 | 9:39 am

  By The Back Seat Reviewer — Road Trip Mom’s Daughter! On my recent trip to Universal studios, one of the most thrilling and original rides in the park was the Hollywood Rip Ride Rock-It. This bright red roller coaster covered in dazzling florescent lights could be seen from anywhere in the park. The fun starts the moment you get to the front of the line. Immediately after you sit down and pull your seat belt across your lap, you have 30 seconds to choose a song from a variety of music. Choices range from music by Fergie, to songs like I Will Survive; so everyone can get a song…

• Rolling Reviews from the Backseat: Dragon Challenge

  Road Trip Mom

  19 Jan 2012 | 9:58 am

  By The Back Seat Reviewer — Road Trip Mom’s Daughter! Don’t miss the Dragon Challenge Roller Coaster in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando.  As you walk through the Forbidden Forest trail, past Hagrid’s Hut, Ron’s beat up old car, and visit the Goblet of Fire, you can catch a glimpse of the two dragons. Choose either the red or the blue dragon and strap in!  The best seats are either the front half or the very back. Your feet dangle off as you ride your dragon through twists and turns. The scariest part is when you flip upside down and…

• Cute Kids Luggage

  Road Trip Mom

  17 Jan 2012 | 12:20 pm

  This kids’ luggage is Cute As A Bug! There is even more cute luggage at PolkaDottedLuggage.com ________________________________ All material copyright ©MomsMinivan.com

• Geography Car Game

  Road Trip Mom

  12 Jan 2012 | 10:42 am

  Here’s a car game you can play without any materials at all.  It’s a geography game that I found on Education.com, which also has a lot of other games and printable materials for kids — great stuff for road trips. The geography game is super easy to play.  You simply take turns naming different cities, states or countries around the world. The only catch is that when it’s your turn, your geography point must begin with the same letter that the last person’s ended. Simple!  If you have an atlas in the car, this game will have your kids scouring through it and…

• 

  Rick Steves: Blog Gone Europe

• Thoughts on Good Travel: Eat the Cheese, Smell the People

  Rick Steves

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:02 pm

    These Sicilians are evangelical about their cheese. If I didn’t stop the car and get out, I would never have met them. When we travel, it’s important to balance our desire to stick to a set itinerary with the freedom to embrace spontaneity. It takes discipline to let serendipity trump carefully laid plans. For me, a fundamental goal in my travels is to have meaningful contact with local people. When an opportunity in this regard presents itself, I jump on it. Driving by a random cheese festival in Sicily? Stop the car. Get out. Eat cheese. Experience it. Hiking through England’s…

• Making and Selling Great Guidebooks: The Focus of Our Annual Publisher’s Summit

  Rick Steves

  6 Feb 2012 | 7:10 pm

  With about 40 guidebooks selling strongly across the US, our publisher (Avalon Travel) makes time each year to come up to Edmonds for a summit and brainstorming conference. We’re so thankful to have a partnership where we combine our talents with theirs. After a festive party at my house with a dozen of my staff and a dozen of their staff actually talking about something other than making–and selling–great guidebooks, our Avalon friends have flown back to their home office in the Bay Area. They left us feeling synchronized and stoked for a great 2012. You, my traveling…

• Rick Steves’ Road Trip USA: 20 Cities in 20 Days this March

  Rick Steves

  2 Feb 2012 | 6:07 pm

  For 30 years, I’ve spent all my travel time overseas…mostly in Europe. Finally, it’s time I saw the good old USA. On March 3rd, I’m setting off on a 20 cities in 20 days road trip, giving talks in mostly smaller cities and towns — all the way from Seattle, Washington to Tallahassee, Florida. I’ve never been so excited about an upcoming trip — not only to be bringing my travel lessons to smaller cities, but to actually be driving across the entire USA. For the last few years, I’ve noticed that every time I’m hired to give a talk in a “smaller market” — places like Fort…

• Marijuana Policy Behind the Scenes: My Notes from a Drug Policy Reform Conference

  Rick Steves

  31 Jan 2012 | 5:04 pm

  With a group of respected and caring citizens, I have co-sponsored Initiative 502 in Washington State (New Approach Washington), which will legalize, tax, and regulate the sale of marijuana for adults. We worked very hard last year to gather more than 350,000 signatures. Last month, we turned them in, and last week, our state government certified that we had gathered enough good signatures. This means that (unless our legislature simply accepts the initiative outright), I-502 will be on the ballot in November of 2012. I’m working with a wonderful group of activists who (like their…

• My USA Today Editorial Promoting Study Abroad

  Rick Steves

  29 Jan 2012 | 12:00 pm

  Something I feel very strongly about is the value of students incorporating a little world travel into their university experience. That’s why I’ve been working as a spokesperson for NAFSA: Association of International Educators. As a kind of teacher myself, my personal interest in this is to support teachers in their work by offering my Europe 101: History and Art for the Traveler and Travel as A Political Act books, and Rick Steves’ Europe DVDs, as tools to bring an international prospective into their classrooms. That’s why I’m selling these items to educators at…

• 

  Guidespot - Fresh Guides

• Moving Company One Austin

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:24 pm

  We know that relocating your Apartment, home or office is not an easy task and that is where Apartment Movers One Austin comes into the picture and help you find the best Movers in Texas.

• Tracy Chappell State Farm Insurance

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:37 am

  Excellent Rates on many types of insurance including Auto Insurance, Renters Insurance, Life Insurance, Business Insurance, & More. Save up to 35% on auto insurance. Discount rates without discount service.

• John Couture State Farm Insurance

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:54 am

  Excellent Rates on many types of insurance including Auto Insurance, Renters Insurance, Life Insurance, Business Insurance, & More. Save up to 40% on auto insurance. Discount rates without discount service.

• Charley Benson State Farm Insurance

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:16 am

  Excellent Rates on many types of insurance including Auto Insurance, Renters Insurance, Life Insurance, Business Insurance, & More. Save up to 40% on auto insurance. Discount rates without discount service.

• Michael Jewell Farmers Insurance

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:00 am

  Excellent Rates on many types of insurance including Auto Insurance, Renters Insurance, Life Insurance, Business Insurance, & More. Save on auto insurance. Discount rates without discount service.

• 

  Travel Guides

• New Hotels: A roundup of room rates and packages

  Randy Colt

  5 Feb 2012 | 1:41 pm

  The past week was very important for some of the newest hotels which just opened their doors for their guests. Here are some of the hotels which recently opened and their current room rates: Tryp by... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Qantas to distribute movies in-flight thru iPads

  Randy Colt

  5 Feb 2012 | 1:31 pm

  Australian airline Qantas is the newest carrier to try innovative ideas to deliver in-flight entertainment to travelers. The national airline of the Land Down Under will be making use of Q Streaming... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Congestion hot spots in London mapped ahead of the 2012 Olympics

  Randy Colt

  5 Feb 2012 | 1:24 pm

  A newly launched website called GetAheadofTheGames by Transport for London layouts the transport network of London which will be most likely affected by the upcoming Olympic Games. The website was a... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Adventure Travel with a dose of Charity

  Randy Colt

  3 Feb 2012 | 3:47 pm

  If you have been feeling guilty about spending too much money on vacations but still couldn’t fathom a long break without the routine adrenaline rush, you might want to consider giving back. Aside... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Budget hotels: Best London hotels that will not hurt your pocket

  Randy Colt

  2 Feb 2012 | 5:01 pm

  London travel on a budget is possible, believe it or not. You get to book a room in these cool hotels without sacrificing your taste and style. Here are some of the best budget London hotels where... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• 

  HOTELMARKETING.COM

• Hilton on hotel search marketing trends

  markus.busch@hotelmarketing.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:05 am

  With TripAdvisor becoming less dominant/ reliable, brands are beginning to regain some lost influence and the correct management of both mobile and mapping technology will be key to increasing any brand’s online reputation, says James Harrower, search marketing manager, International at Hilton Worldwide.

• TripAdvisor revenue up 30% in first quarter as a public company

  markus.busch@hotelmarketing.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:04 am

  After spinning off from Expedia and debuting on the NASDAQ in December, trip reviews site TripAdvisor posted fourth quarter 2011 revenues of $137.8 million, a 30% increase over fourth quarter 2010. Full year 2011 revenues were $637.1 million, a 31% increase over full year 2010.

• In spite of economic concerns, consumers plan to travel more, increase travel budgets

  markus.busch@hotelmarketing.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:03 am

  Travelocity’s annual “Traveler Confidence Report” reveals a majority of consumers, 53 percent, plan to travel more in 2012 than they did in 2011 despite a lack of confidence in the state of the economy.

• Wyndham launches new site to drive direct business

  markus.busch@hotelmarketing.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:02 am

  The new site is part of Wyndham Hotel Group’s Direct Strategy designed to recapture business by driving more bookings through the company’s own channels. The strategy calls for improved brand websites, and enhanced alternative sell, a distribution model enabling Wyndham Hotel Group brands to be sold on sister websites.

• Groupon will ‘trash your brand’, says BA and Tui

  markus.busch@hotelmarketing.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:01 am

  Two of the UK’s biggest travel companies have dismissed discount-deals site Groupon as of no interest, “appalling” and a way to “trash your brand”. The danger with Groupon is that you allow someone to subsume and ultimately trash your brand.

• 

  Kathika Travel Website

• Mobile Working Options for Frequent Travelers

  traveldesk

  3 Feb 2012 | 12:18 pm

  For frequent travelers, some things are non-negotiable. Certain products and services simply make working while on the road simpler and more organized. According to a report released last year by Norm Rose of Travel Tech Consulting Inc., 16 percent of travelers surveyed currently use smartphones to book trips. That figure rises to 18 percent among the 18 to 35 year olds and to 33 percent among frequent travelers. It should come as no surprise that today’s travelers rely on Internet connectivity to get things done and meet deadlines when on the road. Staying connected is critical to…

• One Surefire Way to Save Money When Traveling

  traveldesk

  10 Jan 2012 | 12:23 pm

  If there’s an easy, effortless way to save money on travel expenses, why doesn’t everyone take advantage of it? It has to be because they don’t know coupon codes are readily available. Sure, everyone sees the field where you can enter a promotion code. They’re on every e-commerce website. Yet many, if not most, people think those are reserved for people who were issued coupons and codes. This is not so. Anyone can find coupon codes for almost anything, and they will almost always cut a bit off the bill. Anyone booking travel should do this without fail. How does…

• Tips for Finding Cheap Flights and Hotels

  traveldesk

  9 Jan 2012 | 12:06 pm

  We all want to travel, but many of us don’t have the budget to do so frequently. That is, we didn’t have the budget to do so, until the internet. Online services have changed the face of travel. What was once a tedious and multistep process has become — simpler, at least. No one would really call it simple. And complex might be better, too. The more services you try, the more chances you can find to save. There are quite a few services that can help you find hotel and airline rates that enable you to travel even with a small budget. Best flight prices The greatest…

• Alaska Airlines Baggage Restrictions, Luggage Charges and Carry on Luggage

  Chris Bibey

  15 Apr 2011 | 4:57 am

  As a passenger on an Alaska Airlines flight it is important to be aware of baggage restrictions, luggage charges, and carry on luggage policies. These details will determine how you pack for your trip, and what you do when you arrive at the airport.  Alaska Airlines charges $20 for the first, second an third bag. Each bag over this will be assessed a fee of $50 each. Alaska Airlines also charges for oversize and overweight baggage. A bag is considered oversize if bigger than 62 linear inches and overweight if heavier than 50 pounds. Alaska Airlines allows each passenger to carry on one bag…

• Visiting the St. Louis Arch

  traveldesk

  29 Dec 2010 | 12:30 pm

  Known as the St. Louis Arch, Gateway Arch, and Gateway to the West, this famous piece of architecture is at the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial on the banks of the Mississippi river in downtown St. Louis, Missouri. The arch is part of the park’s celebration of the westward expansion of the country between 1803 and 1890. It was designed by competition winners Eero Saarinen and Hannskarl Bandel in 1947, but construction didn’t begin until 1963. While the structure was completed in October of 1965, it wasn’t opened to the public in 1967, twenty years after the design was…

• 

  Been-Seen

• privacy policy

  Svirksts

  7 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am

  under construction.

• terms of service

  Svirksts

  7 Feb 2012 | 8:29 am

  under construction.

• Places to Stay in Sayulita, Mexico: Casa Brava

  Maria

  3 Feb 2012 | 12:12 pm

  We don't know what the weather's like where you are, but we're freezing over here! While we wait for winter to melt into spring, we're warming ourselves up by planning a summer getaway. This year, we'll be heading down to Sayulita, Mexico, a village located about 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. A longtime favorite for surfers (they've been catching waves there since the 1960s,) Sayulita has plenty to offer the casual tourist. To name a few: a tented Sunday market with wares made by local and traveling craftsmen, an amazing selection of street food in the bustling…

• High Design + High Tech = Hi Matic

  Maria

  1 Feb 2012 | 12:55 pm

  High tech meets high design in Hi Matic, an "urban eco lodge" from French designer Matali Crasset and hoteliers Philippe Chapelet and Patrick Elouarghi, the same team behind the Hi Hotel in Nice. Located in the lively Parisian neighborhood between the world's hippest cemetary, Père Lachaise, and the trendy Place de la Bastille, one might easily mistake Hi Matic for a hostel. The practical block shapes and twee colors are definitely youthful. But Hi Matic is not a budget hotel or a youth hostel. It's a new sort of technophile bed and breakfast placed square…

• Fold World

  Maria

  31 Jan 2012 | 1:21 pm

  Folding is an art form, a way of turning a plain piece of paper into an object of beauty. But the art of folding is used throughout the design world for a variety of purposes. We've discovered an exciting group of designers, architects, and artists who have incorporated folding into their designs in fresh and unconventional (yet practical) ways. Once we started researching, we found out that almost everything can fold: houses, bicycles, furniture, tents, trailers, and even boats. Great design fills our needs before we even know we have them. Case in point: the plethora of folding bikes…

• 

  MiceChat

• Mineral King: The Rest Of The Story

  Fishbulb

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:10 pm

  We continue on our trek to the Mineral King Resort, Walt Disney’s final project.  You have heard some of the story, now hear it from the people whom were actually there.  Diane Disney Miller, Ron Miller and David Price all chime in and share their personal accounts. Plus, we want to know what you think about this proect which almost was.

• Disney Discussions, Theme park news and more

  Fishbulb

  8 Feb 2012 | 8:53 am

  Is it worth it to travel to the Tokyo Disney Resort just for the unique rides? Will Transformers live up to the hype created by the Super Bowl ads? Does the Magic Kingdom in Florida look better from the sky? All is answered in today’s MiceChat round up. We have trip reports from Disneyland, Walt Disney World, the Orlando theme parks and points abroad. All this plus new videos from the MiceTube. So, let’s get to reading, you don’t want to be the last one in the discussion.

• From the Mouth of the Mouse – Tom Sawyer Speaks!

  Fishbulb

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:57 am

  Meet Tom Nabbe.  As a little boy he would ride past the Disneyland construction site while on his paper route in hopes of visiting one day.  Little did he know he would be cast as one of the most iconic face characters in the park and become a personal friend to Walt Disney.  Read how it all happened here and of his fateful first visit to the brand new park.

• Manning In The Magic Kingdom, Unfortunate Habits, Universal Construction and more

  Fishbulb

  7 Feb 2012 | 1:34 am

  Eli Manning visits the Magic Kingdom, Heroes have habits at Epcot, and we get a birds-eye view of the Fantasyland expansion all right here in the later Orlando Parkhopper. We don’t just breeze through the Disney parks, no sir. We also stop by Universal and Islands of Adventure for a look at old amity, Despicable me and the upcoming Mardi Gras celebration. All this, news about Fast Pass changes, and a new Communicore Weekly and Kevin Yee right here!

• Dateline Disneyland — Romance and Ragtime, Cars Land and Construction

  AndyCastro

  6 Feb 2012 | 6:37 am

  Disneyland continues its off-season with a number of big and small refurbishments, including the major six-month Matterhorn Bobsleds project.  Meanwhile, work continues on projects along Main Street, U.S.A. as the Disneyana collectibles shop reopens after getting some work done.  Over at Disney California Adventure, new details continue to emerge on Buena Vista Street as that project and the major new Cars Land expansion gear up for a mid-June grand opening.  Meanwhile, on Paradise Pier the Midway Shops continue to get new facades.  Nearby in Pacific Wharf, the Ghirardelli Chocolate…

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  Latest Activity on Outdoor Baby Network

• The CampyMom is now a member of Outdoor Baby Network

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:49 pm

  The CampyMom is now a member of Outdoor Baby Network

• Status posted by Mountain Mama

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:15 am

  Status posted by Mountain MamaHere's a chance to win a Wizbang hat! (AWESOME hats!)…

• Mountain Mama replied to Mountain Mama's discussion 'Babywearing in the great outdoors.'

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:14 am

  Mountain Mama replied to Mountain Mama's discussion 'Babywearing in the great outdoors.'

• ReBecca Hunt-Foster replied to Mountain Mama's discussion 'Babywearing in the great outdoors.'

  7 Feb 2012 | 1:49 am

  ReBecca Hunt-Foster replied to Mountain Mama's discussion 'Babywearing in the great outdoors.'

• ReBecca Hunt-Foster updated their profile

  7 Feb 2012 | 1:43 am

  ReBecca Hunt-Foster updated their profile

• 

  A Luxury Travel Blog

• Top 10 luxury hotels on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

  James Dutton-Smith

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:26 am

  As the host of the recently announced 2018 Commonwealth Games, the world’s attention will turn towards Australia’s Gold Coast. It was the 42 kilometres of uninterrupted beach that first drew travellers to the region. However today, while the beach remains as a family favourite, it’s the theme parks, a 24-hour casino and a thriving nightlife that have firmly put the Gold Coast on the tourist map. Here’s a top 10 list of luxury accommodation on the Gold Coast. Palazzo Versace Arguably the most opulent accommodation option on the Gold Coast, Palazzo Versace is the world’s first…

• Free iPad with Powder White March ski breaks

  Paul Johnson

  9 Feb 2012 | 6:40 am

  Longer, sunnier days and blissfully emptier slopes are no longer the only reasons to ski in March. Book a week in a selected chalet in one of the ‘big five’ ski resorts of Val d’Isere, Courchevel, Verbier, Meribel and St Anton through the independent ski holiday provider Powder White and you’ll receive a free iPad 2 (16GB/Wi-Fi version). Keen skiers can use their new toy to download Powder White’s favourite ski Apps to help make the most of their holiday including: Ski Tracks, which allows skiers to track their day; Mammut Safety App, a clinometre, compass and…

• Top 3 luxury, boutique and eco-chic hotels in The Gambia

  Kathryn Burrington

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:32 am

  The Gambia in West Africa has been a popular destination for many years for seekers of winter sunshine. It is the smallest country on mainland Africa and is surrounded on three sides by its big brother, Senegal, with a small strip of coastline along which a thriving tourist industry has developed. Justifiably known as ‘the smiling coast of Africa’, The Gambia enjoys spacious sandy beaches that are never crowded; it is politically stable and the official language is English so there’s no communication problem. Plus if you are travelling from the UK it’s just 6 hours flying time away…

• Gourmet food on cruise ships

  Neil Page

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:03 am

  There is a common misconception that you’ll leave a cruise ship at least 5lbs heavier than you were when you boarded, and although this isn’t necessarily true, there is a very good reason for it. Most cruise ships have at least 10 different dining options, some up to 20, and what with one of them being an all you can eat buffet, its easy to see why some people do carry a little extra weight after a cruise. But as I said, there are plenty of other options, and we’re not talking buffet style – we’re talking top-notch, lip-smacking gourmet food. The gourmet food…

• Top 10 new luxury hotels for 2012

  Carole Booth

  30 Jan 2012 | 10:03 am

  Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives Having opened in December 2011 Jumeirah Vittaveli is already gathering outstanding reviews and it’s little wonder with the Beach Villa lead-in room types spanning an interior of a whopping 184 sq m. It’s space, comfort and luxury all the way as each villa comes with its own private L-shaped swimming pool with furnished sun deck, fully stocked wine cellar, exclusive stretch of beach, massage and dining Sala and a host of in-room gadgets like the Apple media centre and BOSE sound system with iPod and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. Deep breaths……

• 

  Vacations Blog

• Winter Vacations Extended Six Weeks!

  Whit Honea

  2 Feb 2012 | 6:41 pm

  You probably woke up this morning thinking that spring was on your doorstep and it was time to start planning vacations accordingly (ah, spring break). Well, guess what, winter isn’t going anywhere. Punxsutawney Phil, the world’s cutest weather forecaster, has seen his shadow and as such six weeks of winter has been added to the calendar. The famous groundhog lives in Punxsutawney, PA, and has been looking at shadows for years, so he knows what he’s talking about (squeaking?). What are you going to do with more winter? Another ski trip? Ice fishing? Take the kids sledding?

• Beaches Turks & Caicos Upgrades the Family Vacation

  Britt Reints

  2 Feb 2012 | 9:00 am

  Pool in the Caribbean Village at Beaches Turks and Caicos When I was a kid, our family vacations usually consisted of long car rides and gas station food serving as bookends for a holiday spent with grandparents. In really good years, we got to add state parks or a visit to the regional amusement park to the mix. I was just happy to be out of school and sleeping in a house where I couldn’t get grounded. I had no idea what I was missing. Today’s family vacations have been given a major upgrade by all-inclusive resorts like Beaches Turks and Caicos that cater to families. The…

• Spring Training in the Valley of the Sun

  Jodi Grundig

  1 Feb 2012 | 10:53 am

  Spring Training in Phoenix Although it’s still football season here in New England (go Pats!), I’m excited for baseball season to start.  While my beloved Red Sox don’t play in the Cactus League, many other great teams do.  If you are looking for a March getaway, and want to catch some great spring training games, consider visiting the greater Phoenix area. Last year, I had the opportunity to visit Phoenix during spring training, and I had such a great time that I decided to visit this year with my family.  We are visiting in March, and plan to check out several games.

• Super Bowl 46 or Bust!

  Whit Honea

  31 Jan 2012 | 8:29 pm

  This Sunday, February 5, is Super Bowl Sunday. It’s like a holiday. The big game will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana at the Lucas Oil Stadium, which is a fantastic piece of kinetic architecture (that means it has moving parts). Indianapolis is second only to Washington, D.C. in the number of monuments within the city, and it also features two natural waterways that run through it. Basically, it’s a pretty town. The New York Giants will be playing the New England Patriots. Despite the Patriots playing in the same division as the Indianapolis Colts (AFC) I’m guessing that…

• Floating With Jellies at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium

  Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

  31 Jan 2012 | 5:31 pm

  Jellyfish Although their bodies are composed of 95 percent water, jellyfish remain some of  the most fascinating and diverse sea creatures.  They also prose real creative challenges for researchers, which is why the elaborate exhibit, “Jellies” at the Shedd Aquarium through May 28, provides such a rare glimpse into the world of these see-through sea animals. The sprawling show invites visitors to dive into the world of sea jellies, exploring natural history, anatomy and life cycles with videos, life-sized models and of course, hundreds of translucent jellies representing …

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  Discovering Puerto Rico

• Puerto Rico Road Trips

  Coqui

  7 Feb 2012 | 12:00 pm

  The fastest way (usually) to drive around Puerto Rico is to take the toll roads (autopistas). This is fine if you want to just get from A to B as quickly as possible, but if you have the time, I urge you to explore the roads beyond the autopista. You won’t be disappointed and will be rewarded with; great drives, awesome views and the chance to discover some of Puerto Rico’s better kept secrets. To get you started here are a few routes to check out: PR143 Barranquitas to Toro Negro (part of the Ruta Panoramica) The Ruta Panoramica crosses the heart of Puerto Rico from east to west,…

• Ponce Carnival 2012

  Coqui

  31 Jan 2012 | 11:31 am

  Held every year during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday, the Ponce Carnival in Puerto Rico is a HUGE celebration attended by thousands of locals and visitors to the island. This year’s event takes place from February 15th to 21st. The Carnaval de Ponce as it is known locally is one of the oldest carnivals, with its roots dating back to 1858. It marks the beginning of Lent and the week long celebration culminates with a fake funeral procession and the Burial of the Sardine. Like the recent San Sebastian Street Festival, one of the highlights of the Ponce Carnival is the Vejigantes. The…

• Street Food, Coffee, a 10k run and more: Puerto Rico February 2012

  Coqui

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:41 am

  February 2012 in Puerto Rico is a pretty good month if you like coffee, eating street food and running, as the month brings us the first ever Puerto Rico Street Food Festival, the World’s Best 10K run and the Maricao Coffee Festival. Puerto Rico Street Food Festival (Feb 4-5) Head to the Hiram Bithorn Stadium, near Plaza Las Americas February 4 -5 and check out some of the best food trucks Puerto Rico has to offer. Always wondered what a Tripleta is; then head to the Puerto Rico Street Food Festival to find out. Admission is $8 with food samples costing around $1 – $4, with plenty of…

• Joyuda: A Must For Seafood Lovers

  Coqui

  19 Jan 2012 | 11:26 am

  Joyuda on the west coast of Puerto Rico has been on my radar ever since arriving in Puerto Rico. Why? Because whenever I have asked for recommendations on great seafood restaurants, the number ONE answer I get is; ‘You have to check out road 102 in Joyuda’. So that’s exactly what I did a few weeks back when my sister was visiting from England. We set off early in the morning and checked out a few beaches around Cabo Rojo and then made a beeline for PR 102 for a late afternoon lunch stop. PR 102 runs along the west coast of Puerto Rico for about 11 miles from Cabo Rojo north to Mayaguez,…

• 2012 San Sebastian Street Festival, Old San Juan

  Coqui

  10 Jan 2012 | 3:53 pm

  This week, the 2012 San Sebastian Street Festival (Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastián) will turn Old San Juan into one HUGE street party. The four day event kicks off on Thursday January 12 at 5pm and ends late on Sunday January 15 (well actually Jan 16 at 2am). Visitors and people from all over the island will descend in their thousands to experience at first hand the largest festival in Puerto Rico. San Sebastian Street and beyond The balconies along San Sebastian Street will be filled with people taking advantage of the high vantage points as the parades and throngs of people stream along…

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  Johnny Jet

• Hertz First to Trial Wireless EV Recharging

  Johnny Jet

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:46 pm

    – Hertz is First Car Rental Company to Pilot Plugless Power for EV Recharging – Hertz is implementing the first wireless charging system for electric vehicles (EVs) in the car rental industry.    Hertz has the most diverse fleet of EVs for both rental and carshare. “Hertz is committed to its Global EV program, introducing electric vehicles into our rental fleet on three continents – North America, Asia and Europe,” commented Mark P. Frissora, Hertz Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.  “We’re excited to participate in Plugless Power’s pilot program so that we…

• Air New Zealand Plays Cuddle Cupid with Five Days of Twitter Giveaways

  Johnny Jet

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:51 pm

  Airline Spreads the Love through Valentine’s Twitter Contest Move over, Cupid. This Valentine’s Day, Air New Zealand is giving lovebirds the gift of cuddle. From February 9 through 13, Air New Zealand will offer daily Twitter giveaways better than any box of chocolates or dozen roses: roundtrip airfare to Auckland or London on the Skycouch, the seat that turns economy class into cuddle class. Air New Zealand will ask sweethearts to tweet their answers to a daily question about romantic travel via a contest page on the Trazzler website. Each day, Trazzler editors will select the entrant…

• Girls Night IN!

  Johnny Jet

  8 Feb 2012 | 3:55 pm

  Smack in the middle of everything two girls in a Manhattan mood could ever want, Hyatt’s 48 Lex is just the place to kickback between shopping.  Like a perfect espresso, 48 Lex is energetic chic served in a stylish cup. Check-in is just a taste of the cool to come.  There’s no check-in counter or line to stand, no forms or index cards. Instead, we’re greeted by a sharply-dressed 48 Lex host toting a lap-top with all our 411– including our dinner reservation– ready for me to verify and we’re swiftly on our way to the room.  Is this what they mean by a “New York…

• Los Angeles Times Travel Show Hits 21% Increase in Attendance

  Johnny Jet

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:17 pm

  The Los Angeles Times’ 14th-annual Travel Show and inaugural industry conference, January 27-29, convened more than 24,300 celebrity speakers, travel professionals, industry leaders, members of the media and consumers at the L.A. Convention Center, smashing the previous attendance record by more than 21 percent and officially making it the must-attend Southern California travel event of the year.  RELATED: Here’s my story from this year’s show. “The 2012 Travel Show surpassed our wildest attendance expectations and it’s enormously gratifying to have our first…

• Travel News: Week of February 9, 2012

  Johnny Jet

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:54 am

  Week of February 8, 2012: Chicago Tribune Ways to save on your next trip to Hawaii Smartest cities on the globe More From Chicago Tribune Travel* Los Angeles Times Romantic getaways Hollywood finds romance in travel Travel updates for 2012 More From L.A. Times Travel* New York Times Texas Road Trip, Part I: Barbecue, Dr Pepper and Tortilla-Tossing Single in the Caribbean Avoiding Baggage Fees 36 Hours: Park City, Utah More From N.Y. Times Travel* USA Today Aruba offers the New England Patriots a consolation vacation Alaska Air adds Philadelphia, drops Miami for Fort Lauderdale How to avoid…

• 

  Inkwatu

• Iconic memory

  Hilton Kean Jones

  16 Jan 2012 | 4:56 pm

  Countless childhood trips from Illinois down to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Florida, and New Orleans and always, even more than the water, this was the image that I identified with the deep South. Yes, I know, moss is bad for the tree and it’s full of chiggers! Nevertheless… Most images link to larger images. click on larger image for closeup Copyright © 2012 Inkwatu. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement. Please contact legal@inkwatu.com…

• Year ’round Holiday decorations

  Hilton Kean Jones

  30 Dec 2011 | 10:26 am

  I think I will leave up my holiday decorations year ’round. Why not? They make me feel good. Long, long ago, there used to be a small, downtown cafe in St. Pete that was decorated with year ’round Christmas tree lights strung around the ceiling. I could almost swear it was where the Central Coffee Shoppe is now, but not certain. That was more than 30 years ago. This particular decoration, pictured above, is my favorite, even after all these years. Thank you, Nathan. I think I may drag out my Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Easter Bunny decorations, too, while I’m at it. Most…

• Homegrown lettuce from a neighborhood garden

  Hilton Kean Jones

  20 Dec 2011 | 4:36 pm

  A friend brought me a great gift today: fresh lettuce she picked herself from a plot she maintains in a community garden at the end of her street. Although I, personally, lack the drive for such industry, I’m certainly glad she doesn’t! Isn’t it great to know where your food comes from? The word, “community,” in that phrase really strikes a resonant chord with me. There’s something “right” about it being grown by real people, not a monolithic corporation in some distant state or country. This salad has got to be fresher than anything on earth.

• Happy Holidays!

  Hilton Kean Jones

  13 Dec 2011 | 7:20 am

  Most images link to larger images. click on larger image for closeup Copyright © 2012 Inkwatu. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement. Please contact legal@inkwatu.com so we can take legal action immediately.Plugin by Taragana InkwatuDelightsNearAndFar

• Variation on a Butternut Squash Soup Zack Shack recipe

  Hilton Kean Jones

  5 Dec 2011 | 9:47 am

  A fellow blogger (he publishes Zack Shack) and friend has posted several recipes that have made my mouth water. Recently, Zack had a recipe for Brined Turkey Butternut Squash Soup that I simply had to try since I only recently learned how to cook winter squash. To me, it seemed that the heart of Zack’s recipe was the use of lite creamed cheese instead of cream, which is what typical recipes call for. In checking around online, I noticed some additions that I had laying around that I wanted to use up: carrots and apples. I took that idea from this AllRecipes recipe: Butternut and Apple…

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  Travel Happy

• Snapshot: Phanom Rung Temple Doorway, Early Morning

  Chris Mitchell

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:19 am

  Originally posted at Travel Happy Title: Snapshot: Phanom Rung Temple Doorway, Early Morning

• Snapshot: Phanom Rung Temple, Buriram, Just After Sunrise

  Chris Mitchell

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:32 am

  A Travelhappy Snapshot – photos from living in Bangkok and my travels around Thailand, Asia and everywhere else Originally posted at Travel Happy Title: Snapshot: Phanom Rung Temple, Buriram, Just After Sunrise

• Snapshot: Sunset over the Mekong River on the Thailand-Laos border, as seen from Tohsang Khongjiam Resort

  Chris Mitchell

  7 Feb 2012 | 6:48 pm

  A Travelhappy Snapshot – photos from living in Bangkok and my travels around Thailand, Asia and everywhere else Originally posted at Travel Happy Title: Snapshot: Sunset over the Mekong River on the Thailand-Laos border, as seen from Tohsang Khongjiam Resort

• Snapshot: Instructions For Sliding Door

  Chris Mitchell

  7 Feb 2012 | 6:23 pm

  A Travelhappy Snapshot – photos from living in Bangkok and my travels around Thailand, Asia and everywhere else Originally posted at Travel Happy Title: Snapshot: Instructions For Sliding Door

• Snapshot: Spirit House Market, Surin, Thailand

  Chris Mitchell

  7 Feb 2012 | 4:22 am

  A Travelhappy Snapshot – photos from living in Bangkok and my travels around Thailand, Asia and everywhere else Originally posted at Travel Happy Title: Snapshot: Spirit House Market, Surin, Thailand

• 

  Hawaiimagazine.com | HAWAII Today

• And the winner of HAWAII Magazine’s Honolulu Festival Flyaway sweepstakes is…

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:21 am

  And the winner of HAWAII Magazine&rsquo;s Honolulu Festival Flyaway sweepstakes is&hellip; Congratulations to Ashleigh Allred of Salt Lake City, Utah — the winner of our HAWAII Magazine’s Honolulu Festival Flyaway sweepstakes.Ashleigh’s name was drawn at random from more than 10,000 sweepstakes entries submitted through our Facebook page over the last three weeks. Her prize?• Complimentary Hawaiian Airlines round-trip airfare for two passengers between Oahu and one of Hawaiian Airlines’ gateway cities on the U.S. Mainland.• Five-days/four nights…

• Top 5 favorite Hawaii music artists (ever): HAWAII Magazine Facebook poll results

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:16 am

  Top 5 favorite Hawaii music artists (ever): HAWAII Magazine Facebook poll results We’ve counted your picks from our latest HAWAII Magazine Facebook Ohana poll question: Who is your favorite Hawaii music artist? Ever. The top five vote-getters are on the pages ahead. Your picks specified more than 50 artists, ranging from innovative newcomers with recent hits on pop charts to iconic late artists remembered for setting music trends and recording Hawaii classics in decades past. Among the runners-up to the top-five vote-getters were beloved late musicians, such as slack-key guitarist Gabby…

• Spooky new TV series debuting tonight includes Hawaii-filmed episodes

  7 Feb 2012 | 6:18 am

  Spooky new TV series debuting tonight includes Hawaii-filmed episodes Several episodes of a spooky-looking new ABC television series called The River, which premieres tonight, were filmed in Hawaii.  The pilot episode for The River was filmed in Puerto Rico, as was the pilot for Off the Map, an ABC series than moved to Hawaii during 2010. Off the Map, a medical drama about doctors working is a remote South American village, premiered in January 2011 and was canceled by ABC last spring. Production...

• Punahou School Carnival, a longtime Oahu tradition, under way this weekend

  3 Feb 2012 | 11:25 am

  Punahou School Carnival, a longtime Oahu tradition, under way this weekend Dozens of jumbo-sized tents and tarps have popped up on Punahou School’s manicured grounds in the Manoa Valley area on Oahu. About a week ago, the big-and-bulky midday rides arrived. And by sunrise this morning, scores of alumni as well as students and their parents were busy patrolling the transformed campus and making final preparations for the annual Punahou School Carnival(2012 theme: To Carnival and Beyond: A Futuristic Fantasy, presented by the Class of 2013.) The carnival will be under way today until 11…

• Big Island’s 19th annual Waimea cherry blossom fest celebrates Hawaii-Japan ties

  2 Feb 2012 | 7:41 am

  Big Island&rsquo;s 19th annual Waimea cherry blossom fest celebrates Hawaii-Japan ties The Big Island’s annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival marks the blooming of the area’s historic cherry trees with a Japanese tradition called hanami, which translates as “cherry blossom viewing party.” After a seasonal winter chill in the upcountry area east of the Kohala Coast, cherry trees typically bloom in February. The 19h annual Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival, slated for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sat., Feb. 4 at various sites in the Waimea ...

• 

  Uncornered Market

• Istanbul Without the Carpet: A Tale of Two Visits

  Audrey Scott

  7 Feb 2012 | 12:22 pm

  This is a story about two different visits to Istanbul, the utter pointlessness of posing as a Canadian when you’re American, and the secret to experiencing Istanbul without being offered a carpet. “Were you sold a carpet?” “No, not even once.” After our most recent visit to Istanbul, I’m surprised both by the number of times I’ve been asked that question and how pleased I am to offer my answer. When buying carpet is not your focus, but discovering the people and neighborhoods of Istanbul is, there’s an art to making it work and choosing strategically where and how…

• Panorama of the Week: Santo Domingo – Oaxaca, Mexico

  Daniel Noll and Audrey Scott

  3 Feb 2012 | 12:15 am

  Just when you begin to think every church is the same and you’ve seen it all, you enter yet another that surprises. Your jaw drops, you narrow your gaze to tune into the detail, you arch your back to admire the ceiling. Such was our experience today at Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church in Oaxaca, Mexico. At Iglesia Santo Domingo, Baroque defines the style, while golden certainly defines the tone. And to give you a sense of the scale of time, the church’s construction began in 1572 and took over 200 years to complete. 200 years! Everywhere we turned, we were drawn into pockets of…

• Zen and the Art of Laundry on the Road

  Daniel Noll

  30 Jan 2012 | 5:00 am

  This is story about five-sided underwear, a laundry detergent named BARF, socks that smell like goat cheese, and jeans that have never been washed. Oh, and it’s an answer to “What do you do about laundry while traveling?” The other day, Audrey and I walked into a laundry service here in Oaxaca, Mexico and after a confounding exchange we discovered that they don’t accept underwear. You heard right: NO UNDERWEAR! Now try to imagine the charades that yielded that understanding, before we read the sign: It has been said that the only guarantees in life are death and taxes.

• Panorama of the Week: Grand Central Terminal, New York

  Daniel Noll

  27 Jan 2012 | 2:02 am

  One part transportation hub, another part monument to the human experiment, Grand Central Terminal is said to be number six on the world’s most visited places list with 21,600,000 visitors each year. Hitler sent spies to sabotage it, Croatian nationalists attempted to bomb it and visions of the future once conspired to demolish it. (I ache just thinking about that last bit. In a rush to the future, be careful what you replace and how you replace it. I’m thinking Penn Station here.) But Grand Central Terminal (Grand Central Station or Grand Central, if you like) still stands in all…

• How Travel Beats the Media Fear Machine

  Daniel Noll and Audrey Scott

  22 Jan 2012 | 6:15 pm

  Do you ever question what popular news media have to say about what’s going on in other parts of the world? Our travels have taken us through places perceived – often inappropriately — as dangerous: Central Asia, the Caucasus, Burma (Myanmar), Jordan, Bangladesh. Add to that our recent travels to Iran, and to Egypt and Greece amidst protests. And now we’re in Mexico for a few months, another place high on the perceived danger meter. Do we proceed blindly? No. Are we adrenaline junkies, danger seekers? Not really. We do our research, connect with locals and expats on the…

• 

  The TSA Blog

• TSA Pre✓™ Pilot to Expand to 28 of the Busiest US Airports

  Blogger Bob

  8 Feb 2012 | 1:01 pm

  Earlier today, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Administrator John S. Pistole announced the expansion of TSA Pre™ to 28 additional airports across the country following the success at seven pilot locations. Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Atlanta, Detroit, Miami, and New York JFK. As part of the initiative’s expansion, TSA Pre™ will be rolling out at the following 28 airport locations this year:- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)- Boston Logan International…

• TSA Week in Review: Coral Covered Explosively Viable Cannonball

  Blogger Bob

  3 Feb 2012 | 5:31 pm

  Cannonball: A cannonball was discovered in checked baggage at Ft Lauderdale (FLL). Nothing malicious here, just a diver who found the old projectile near a 1750-1800 era shipwreck. It was determined that the coral covered cannonball was explosively viable which triggered an evacuation of the checked baggage area and a visit from a TSA explosives specialist and a Broward County bomb tech. Cannonballs found on the ocean floor can retain their explosives and have been known to detonate on their own. The bomb tech took possession of the item for further identification, diagnostics, and safe…

• Travel Tips for Fans Traveling to Super Bowl XLVI

  Blogger Bob

  2 Feb 2012 | 2:50 pm

  40,000 or more additional passengers are expected at Indianapolis International Airport (IND) during game week, more than 70 additional commercial flights and 30 charter flights. Arrivals will increase the entire week before game day. We thought it might be helpful to put together a little list with some helpful hints related to things football fans might want to know. Super Bowl Information: For extended airport operating hours, Super Bowl travel accommodations, special airport amenities, etc., please visit the Host Committee’s website. Body Scanners: Contrary to what you may have heard,…

• TSA Week in Review: Leave Your Throwing Stars at Home, Grasshopper

  Blogger Bob

  27 Jan 2012 | 9:00 pm

  Concealed Razorblades: Two razorblades were found concealed in the frame of a carry-on bag at Sacramento (SMF) Leave Them at Home: A throwing star was found in a carry-on bag at Baltimore (BWI) and another found in a passenger’s bag traveling out of Lexington (LEX). Either leave these at home or pack them in your checked baggage, but be sure to check state laws before packing them,Grasshopper. $22,373: A passenger at Jackson (JAX) turned in an abandoned bag to a TSA supervisor. The bag made its way back toits owner along with the $22373.00 that was inside it! West Side Story?: Four…

• Passengers who Refuse Screening are Denied Access to the Secure Area

  Blogger Bob

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:23 pm

  Earlier today, Senator Rand Paul raised some questions about the screening process after going through one of TSA’s millimeter wave body scanners that use automated target recognition (ATR) technology. The ATR software displays the same generic image for all passengers to further protect passenger's privacy. The benefit of automated target recognition is that when a passenger alarms, the officer can look at the generic image to see where the alarm is and then do a targeted pat down to clear the area. For example, if the alarm shows that something might be in your cargo pocket, the officer…

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  Travel Savvy Mom: Family Friendly Hotel, Resort, Suite Reviews » blog

• Sidetracked! The “Dancing” Horses Show

  Jamie Pearson

  6 Feb 2012 | 4:46 am

  Visiting the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art with kids _________________________________________________________________________________ side·track (sīd´trăk): n. 1. A diversion from the main course.  2. A detour taken with children that you would never, ever take without them. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Who: Travel Savvy Mom founder Jamie Pearson, her husband, and their children (then 6 and 8.  Yes, it took [...]

• Sidetracked! Ziplining at Selvatica

  Kayt Sukel

  30 Jan 2012 | 4:18 am

  Swing through the Mayan Riviera with a family-friendly excursion at Selvatica _________________________________________________________________________________ side·track (sīd´trăk): n. 1. A diversion from the main course. 2. A detour taken with children that you would never, ever take without them. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Who: Chet, myself and a  group of 20 fellow travelers aged 4 to 62. What and Where: Who [...]

• Sidetracked! Le Reptilarium in Normandy, France.

  Jamie Pearson

  23 Jan 2012 | 4:06 am

  Most people don’t go to France to see alligators.  We are not most people. _________________________________________________________________________________ side·track (sīd´trăk): n. 1. A diversion from the main course.  2. A detour taken with children that you would never, ever take without them. _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Who: Travel Savvy Mom founder Jamie Pearson, her husband, and their children (then 1 and [...]

• Sidetracked! African Safari Wildlife Park

  travelsavvymom

  16 Jan 2012 | 5:44 am

  A taste of Africa, except in Ohio ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ side·track (sīd´trăk): n. 1. A diversion from the main course. 2. A detour taken with children that you would never, ever take without them. __________________________________________________________________________________________ Who and What: My good friends Todd and Diana and their two children who take really cool trips, but refuse to be [...]

• 4 Fun Washington, D.C. Family Photo Ops

  Debbie Abrams Kaplan

  12 Jan 2012 | 11:02 am

  Come home from our nation’s capital with more than just memories When you visit Washington D.C., you’re going to take a lot of family pictures. They may as well be in good places. Here are four funny shots to consider. 1. Newseum The top floor of this fabulous museum has a balcony, where you get [...]

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  Cleared for Takeoff - The Triporati Blog

• SFO’s New Yoga Room

  Darya Mead

  8 Feb 2012 | 4:23 pm

  I don’t know about you, but unless you have a streamlined, super business traveler routine for trip preparation and packing, (a la George Clooney in the film Up in the Air) you often wind up at the airport with slight back spasms. I always travel with my yoga mat and often head to the back of the plane in-flight to stretch out and realign. Now you can actually use all that post check-in extra time at the San Francisco Airport to center yourself and work out the travel kinks. The City by the Bay has opened a yoga room in terminal two. If you don’t carry your own mat, mats are provided in…

• Great Travel Reading

  Larry Habegger

  17 Jan 2012 | 5:31 pm

  One of the great pleasures of travel is reading about places, whether on the road, before you go, or after you’ve returned. The UK’s daily Telegraph recently posted a list of great expat travel books, both memoirs and novels, to get you started dreaming or reminiscing. World Hum canvassed its contributors and fans for their favorite travel books, and the list that resulted could build a great library of travel literature. And of course a reliable source for superb travel reading is Travelers’ Tales, whose annual Best Travel Writing collections take you all over the world and…

• New Year’s Resolutions Affect Travel in 2012

  Darya Mead

  3 Jan 2012 | 2:27 pm

  I hate New Year’s resolutions. I like the idea of starting fresh, having goals, plans and renewed energy, but the cliché focus on resolutions is tired, in my opinion.  Yet, when I read this quote from Jay Leno, it got me thinking… “Now there are more overweight people in America than average-weight people. So overweight people are now average…which means, you have met your New Year’s resolution.” As Americans waistlines expand, there are so many ripple effects. From healthcare to clothing, design considerations to travel safety, more personal bulk means…

• Upstate New York Winter Wonderland?

  Darya Mead

  22 Dec 2011 | 7:02 am

  As I once again dig through bins of snow gear to prepare for a trek to the Sierras, I think about growing up on the East Coast. My mom hails from Upstate New York. That fact, combined with the brutal winters and my family’s enthusiasm for all things ski, skate and sled related, has shaped my winter wanderlust. We are headed to a house, inaccessible by road in winter. Set on 100 acres of land, the generosity of the owners allows us to live out my alpine fantasies.  We snowshoe or ski one mile into the house, carrying backpacks and pulling a sled full of all our gear, food and an…

• Sundarbans Dolphins

  Darya Mead

  6 Dec 2011 | 4:31 pm

  The Sundarbans, in Bangladesh is a natural wonder. The largest coastal mangrove in the world, it covers nearly 1500 square miles. Endangered Bengali tigers draw tourists during the dry winters. In the summer time, monsoon rains bring unpredictable flooding. This inhospitable environment is also home to the extremely rare and endangered Ganges river dolphins and Irrawaddy dolphins. Local fishermen do not target them, but they often unintentionally get caught up in their nets. Now, to help protect the beautiful beasts the Bangladesh government is declaring three areas in the southern Sundarbans…

• 

  The World Wide Will

• Medjet Update: Fake Drugs and the International Traveler

  World Wide Will

  23 Jan 2012 | 10:42 am

  By: John Gobbels MedjetAssist VP/COO Travelers in need of medications while abroad can often fall into a common trap of paying for fake drugs, but some new technology should help curb the number of travelers who fall victim to these scams. The new technology called Mobile Product Authentication was developed by Dr. Ashifi Cogo, a [...]

• Saying Hello to Jim Furyk. Saying Goodbye to Coach. – Letter from the President

  World Wide Will

  23 Jan 2012 | 10:41 am

  By: Roy Berger, MedjetAssist President/CEO Sometimes you just get lucky. It happened to us at MedjetAssist a few months ago! As we began to formulate our 2012 marketing plans the idea of a national company spokesperson was brought to the front burner. The challenge was finding the right personality. Our focus the past few years [...]

• Andrew Harper Announces The Winners of His Annual Grand Awards

  World Wide Will

  23 Jan 2012 | 10:38 am

  Andrew Harper is pleased to announce his 2012 Grand Award winners, a carefully vetted compilation of his favorite hotels, resorts, restaurants and travel experiences from the past calendar year. Each of the properties reviewed possess exceptional character, a commitment to classic hospitality and a profound sense of place. Mr. Harper does not make his evaluation [...]

• Restaurant Week in NYC

  World Wide Will

  19 Jan 2012 | 10:53 am

  I love food. I like cooking it and I like eating it. So you can imagine how excited I was when I learned that during a business trip to New York I was going to be arriving smack dab in the middle of Restaurant Week. And, not just any Restaurant Week but the 20th Anniversary [...]

• Holiday Travel Packing Tips

  World Wide Will

  8 Dec 2011 | 8:09 am

  Holiday travel is definitely upon us. One way to make your travel experience more pleasurable is to pack properly. Here are a few of my favorite packing tips: Medjet Card: Of course your number one carry-on should be your Medjet card. Nothing gives you peace of mind when you travel like having a team of [...]

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  Galavanting Women's Travel Magazine & Web Series

• Infographic: Best Places in Europe to Ski on a Budget - 559

  4 Feb 2012 | 11:17 am

  As this winter’s ski season continues, Expedia came out with a fun infographic on the best places in Europe to ski on a budget. The infographic covers popular destinations in Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Spain, Andorra, Bulgaria, France, and Slovenia, even including the best value après ski activities (including beer prices!). Have a look and let us know what you think. Are they spot on, or are there any great places missed that are your favorites? (Infographic courtesy Expedia.co.uk. Click for a larger image.)

• Flats, football, fannies and double-fisting: Speaking American vs. English

  25 Nov 2011 | 2:58 pm

• Beat the Travel Funk with Travalo!

  12 Oct 2011 | 1:45 pm

• Come on, Irene: Hurricane Irene expected to affect travel plans - 558

  26 Aug 2011 | 9:33 am

  Hurricane Irene makes landfall on the East Coast. Image courtesy of National Weather ServiceAs 600-mile wide Hurricane Irene begins making its way upwards to the East Coast, travelers should be ready to make plans. The storm has already hit the Bahamas and is expected to reach the US as early as Saturday. According to CNN, American Airlines has already canceled 126 flights, with other carrier following suit. Many travelers Caribbean travelers can change their flights without incurring fees: Major airlines — including US Airways, American Airlines, United Airlines, Continental Airlines,…

• Room with an Orbital View - 557

  22 Aug 2011 | 8:48 am

  Russia’s Soyuz spacecraft on its way to launch. Photo by spatlanHere at Galavanting, we’ve made no secret about our obsession with space travel (alright, my obsession). And, surprise, surprise, here’s some more news about touring the final frontier. According to Reuters, several Russian companies unveiled plans to develop that country’s space tourism industry. One such company, Orbital Technologies, hopes to build an orbiting hotel by 2016. The hotel will accommodate seven guests for five days at $1 million a pop. Orbiting at 217 miles above the Earth, “the hotel…

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  Vagablond

• Louis Roederer Cristal Brut 1990 “Methuselah”: A rare name in champagne world

  Bhavesh Bhatia

  8 Feb 2012 | 11:13 pm

  Undoubtedly, champagne is the most exclusive beverage among drinks, and is seen as a sign of rich society and style. Among champagnes, the price of a bottle of the Louis Roederer Cristal Brut 1990 “Methuselah” is higher than many other exclusive brands of champagne because this 6-l bottle (with a gold label) is priced at $17,625. Its price and appearance along with its ecstatic taste makes it one of the exclusive champagne brands on earth. It is said that only one of these elegant and classic styled bottles was available which was auctioned at this whopping price in 2005. The auction was…

• Satiate your taste buds with Pernod-Richard Perrier-Jouet champagne

  Bhavesh Bhatia

  8 Feb 2012 | 6:25 am

  To get the taste of heavenly delight, you need to be in Eastern France to experience the royal ecstasy of the Pernod-Richard Perrier-Jouet champagne because this champagne, priced at $50,000, is available only in this region. This is a timeless drink for the ultra rich of the world who are wealthy enough to afford this price for a set of this French drink. A set contains one dozen bottles to satiate your taste buds. This is a true representative of your style and class. Wine connoisseurs from rich societies all across US, Britain, France, Switzerland, China, Japan and Russia crave this…

• Four Seasons Alexandria, the glamorous destination in Egypt

  Bhavesh Bhatia

  6 Feb 2012 | 11:36 pm

  The azure blue Mediterranean Sea in front of the magnificent 29 storey building of Four Seasons Alexandria, situated at San Stefano, outlines this outstanding landmark on Alexandria beach. This glorious Egyptian styled building allows guests to explore another part of this historic region. Every room is attached with a well furnished patio to offer a panoramic beauty of the legendary blue water body surrounding the hotel and the beautiful cityscape which becomes more attractive during the night. Guests can relax in these balconies and enjoy the cool sea breeze. All the 118 lavish and highly…

• Dinner served by a robot waiter at Hajime Restaurant

  Bhavesh Bhatia

  5 Feb 2012 | 11:32 pm

  Sit and relish a Japanese dinner tonight at Hajime Restaurant, an exceptional restaurant in Bangkok. With an eye soothing interior decoration, an expertise combination of grey and dark brown color with flecks of yellow and white shades fills the entire dining area. As a guest enters this restaurant, the person will not find any human waiter to order the menu, which is the most amazing part of this eating hub. Robots are there to serve guests with their orders at the respective table and to entertain diners with Asian music. Authentic Japanese cuisine is displayed on the computerized menu card…

• Happy Hacking Keyboard Professional HP Japan priced at $4,240

  Bhavesh Bhatia

  5 Feb 2012 | 11:28 pm

  A keyboard is an input device of a computer and common people generally use any keyboard that is compatible with their desktop computer. When we think of buying a keyboard we think of soft touch well laid out keys. Nowadays, some prefer wireless keyboards so that they can sit and use this input device by setting it as they like. But an ordinary person never thinks of spending a few thousand dollars to get a keyboard. However, the wealthy always prefer to lead a luxurious lifestyle, and for them PFU Ltd. has launched an expensive keyboard to mark the grand celebration of its 10th anniversary.

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  Travels with Children by minnemom

• Diana: A Celebration — at Mall of America in Bloomington, MN

  minnemom

  4 Feb 2012 | 3:02 pm

  Last evening, I attended the media preview of Diana: A Celebration, an exhibition that opens today at Mall of America.  It was interesting to learn more about Princess Diana and to see pieces of her life, including her famed wedding dress with its 25-foot train. Fans of Diana will delight in seeing artifacts from her childhood, viewing some of the beautiful gowns she wore on various occasions, and ooohing and aahing at the wedding dress that was viewed by an estimated 1 billion people when she married Prince Charles. The exhibit begins with family jewels–tiaras and bracelets and…

• The Works: New Location in Bloomington, MN

  minnemom

  2 Feb 2012 | 1:15 pm

  Since discovering The Works science/technology museum several years ago, it’s been on of our family’s favorites.  We’ve attended special events and camps as well as during regular hours, and our kids always ask to go back again. Earlier this winter, The Works moved from its old location in Edina down the road a few miles to Bloomington.  We visited the new location in December and found all of our old favorites, plus some new exhibits and activities. Location The Works’ new location is at 9740 Grand Ave S in Bloomington.  From 35W, take the 98th Street exit and go a…

• Amazing Mirror Maze at Mall of America

  minnemom

  2 Feb 2012 | 10:49 am

  We’ve explored many of the sites and attractions at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, in the past.  Recently we decided to explore something we hadn’t seen yet:  the Amazing Mirror Maze. Amazing Mirror Maze is located on the third level of MOA between the north food court and Sears.  After paying admission of $7.95 + tax, less if you use a coupon, you’ll be given foodservice gloves to wear and safety/behavior instructions (no running, keep your hands out in front of you) before being allowed into the maze. Once inside, there are mirrors all around, and…

• And That Has Made All the Difference

  minnemom

  18 Jan 2012 | 11:33 am

  One of my favorite unexpected things about writing this blog is the connections I’ve made with other travelers, especially regarding little-known but beloved places. In May of 2009, I took my children on a tour of North Dakota.  At the last-minute, I decided to take the Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway between Bismarck and Dickinson instead of the faster and mostly parallel Interstate 94.  It’s one of the best travel decisions I’ve made. Along the byway, we traveled through small towns, found a ghost town, and saw unique, beautiful old buildings, some of which are no longer…

• Vacation Planning Basics

  minnemom

  5 Jan 2012 | 10:56 am

  Our family is blessed to be able to take vacations, whether they be for a couple of days or a longer period of time, several times a year.  With this experience, vacation planning has become second nature, and is one of my favorite pastimes. For families who aren’t able to get away as often, the idea of planning a vacation may be overwhelming.  Deciding where to go, when to go, and how much to budget for the trip requires careful thought, especially if schedules or money are tight. These are the steps I take when planning a vacation.  Perhaps some of them will be useful for families…

• 

  iKangaroo

• France: It’s Groundhog Day? No, it’s Jour des crêpes!

  Chris

  29 Jan 2012 | 7:00 am

• Naples, Italy in a minute

  Chris

  2 Sep 2010 | 5:07 am

• That’s right! iKangaroo is on Foursquare

  Chris

  3 Aug 2010 | 5:24 am

  Going to Paris or Rome?  We have built up quite a list of places to try in both places and are adding more and more all the time.  We are finding the cheapest happy hours, most interesting and budget conscious restaurants and a lot more worthwhile tips that will save you time and money.  Don’t be afraid of crazy phone bills for using data roaming because we are tagging all the free WiFi spots we can find.  If you do not have the Foursquare app yet download it now and friend iKangaroo.

• iKangaroo’s iPhone apps

  Chris

  3 Aug 2010 | 4:26 am

  iKangaroo has just released a series of iPhone apps.  Our first installment is a companion to Dan Brown’s Angels & Demons.  For only $2.99, compared to €70+ for a guided tour) this app will help you experience the thriller like never before while you follow the action of the book and movie on your iPodTouch or iPhone.  Our app uses audio explanations complete with pictures and maps to provide the richest experience possible when visiting and navigating among the featured sites. Angels & Demons, Dan Brown’s book about a plot to destroy the Vatican, has been made into…

• Bizarre Foods Paris Part 1: Foodie Walking Tour

  Chris

  28 Jul 2010 | 9:44 am

  By Sarah– Paris, France While back in the States I stumbled upon a travel show about Paris and its different foods. I thought, ummmm?  I live in Paris.  I like food.  I want to try different things.  I wonder how easy and expensive it would be to follow this itinerary?   So the seed was planted and a plan was made, we had decided to let a TV show be our guide. The program, Bizarre Foods Paris with Andrew Zimmern, featured a mixture of shops, restaurants and other food experiences. We downloaded the show on iTunes and after few viewings and careful note taking we loaded up the…

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  Luxury Travel

• Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:57 pm

  The Kohala Coast on Hawaii's Big Island has several luxury resorts to choose from, but the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel is the most affordable.

• The Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel in Los Angeles

  7 Dec 2011 | 11:51 am

  A boutique hotel near a busy freeway and Sunset Blvd, the Luxe is a quiet oasis where you'd least expect it. Its west side location is ideal for travel.

• Outrigger Reef on the Beach Hotel in Waikiki, Oahu

  3 Nov 2011 | 9:39 am

  Right on the beach in Waikiki, the Outrigger Reef outclasses other area hotels of its type. Hawaii vacations are more affordably luxurious with stays here.

• The SLS Hotel -- Beverly Hills' Coolest Place to Stay

  19 Oct 2011 | 2:16 pm

  A hip luxury hotel in the heart of America's most famous luxury city, The SLS Hotel of Beverly Hills fits right in with its upscale neighborhood.

• Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa

  12 Oct 2011 | 9:47 am

  Bangkok Marriott Resort and Spa is a haven of tranquility in the centre of the City of Angels.

• 

  Travel Blog - Mr & Mrs Smith Boutique & Luxury Hotels

• Romantic hotels for Valentine’s Day: a dozen things that are better than roses

  Sarah

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:02 am

  Organised romance: what an arousal-squashing concept. Discerning lovers should bypass all the pink and sickly tack for some unabashed indulgence – from helicopter rides to ladies in lakes – at our romantic hotels. Mr & Mrs Smith built a business around the art of seduction, so who better to entrust with your night(s) of passion? We’ve selected our top 12 Valentine’s Day hotel offers, sure to get you cooing and canoodling. To kick-start our research into romance, we dropped into the Kensington Hotel’s Aubrey Restaurant to test-drive their Valentine’s Day menu. (We don’t…

• February finds: new Smith hotels in Fiji, Cambodia, Bali and London

  Sarah L

  7 Feb 2012 | 6:41 am

  In an attempt to shake off that northern cold snap, and ease back-to-work woes in the south, we’re dishing up a host of hot new Smith hotels in Fiji, Siem Reap, Bali and London. Honeymoon hotspot Namale Resort & Spa (above), in Fiji’s tropical north-east, is home to oceanfront bures, pampering treatments and a raft of activities. Jungle-meets-beach getaway Matangi Private Island Resort makes romance easy, with its dreamy treehouse boudoirs and serene spa. Pristine private-isle escape Vomo Island Resort in the Mamanucas is a rarity: a sophisticated island stay that welcomes…

• Inside Austin: top TX restaurants

  Juliet

  6 Feb 2012 | 12:07 pm

  March 9–18 Austin will be bursting with live music during South by Southwest. Whet your appetites for SXSW by celebrating this Texan city’s other all-sensory delights with a whirlwind tasting tour of its food trailers and star chefs… Tweet us your #EatinginAustin tips @smithhotels Dieters, look away now. ‘Keep Austin Weird’ was the turn-of-the-millennium bumper-sticker campaign that coined the slogan for a community that prizes all things locally owned and independent. With that in mind, we plotted up at a table in San José Lounge with a couple of Lone Star beers, and a…

• The James New York: hotel of the week

  Lucy

  3 Feb 2012 | 11:27 am

  Valentine’s Day advances… For those seeking a more art-full way to declare their devotion, what could be better than whisking your beloved away for a romantic rendezvous at The James New York, stylishly situated right in the beating heart of Downtown’s art scene? Style Skyscraping scenester Setting Southwest SoHo Why this week? Why not sneak away for a seductive stay on the 14th, or bank some brownie points by booking a mid-March break? To lend a hand, the helpful hoteliers at the James New York are offering Smith members an exclusive Smith offer, including breakfast and two tipples in…

• Listen up! TuneSmith’s musical recommendations for February

  Anthony

  3 Feb 2012 | 9:40 am

  As we segue into springtime, our TuneSmith’s taken to the decks with tracks ancient and modern. For February, he’s picked out Sam Genders’ superb, synthy sideline and dug out a cxhest of hidden treasures from the glory days of R’n'B… ALBUM OF THE MONTH Black Light by Diagrams When? You’re tempted into synth Why? This is machine-made pop of the human kind If you’ve ever caught yourself smiling along to the pared-down folk of Kings Of Convenience, the quirky pop of Gruff Rhys, the jerky rhythms of Metronomy or the warming songs of Elbow, you should schedule a slot…

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  Fun Things to Do - Cool Places to Go

• Maui

  Julie

  3 Feb 2012 | 5:47 am

  Source: deliciousbaby.com via Julie on Pinterest

• Grand Canyon, Arizona

  Julie

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:43 am

  Source: adamschallau.photoshelter.com via Julie on Pinterest

• Sorrento, Italy

  Julie

  25 Jan 2012 | 3:07 pm

  Source: weheartit.com via Ashley on Pinterest

• England

  Julie

  21 Jan 2012 | 2:57 pm

  Source: bluepueblo.tumblr.com via Dan on Pinterest

• Taj Mahal, India

  Julie

  20 Jan 2012 | 5:41 am

  Source: theplanetd.com via Julie on Pinterest

• 

  davidlansing.com

• A ferry to the sex and death museum

  david

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  The Museum of Old and New Art in Hobart as seen from the ferry. I got a rental car to drive out to MONA, the very strange Museum of Old and New Art about 20 minutes up the River Derwent, but then the concierge at my hotel said there wasn’t much parking available at the museum and that, for $15, you could take the ferry there, so what the hell; I took the ferry. While I was waiting for the boat to arrive, I went into a shop along the wharf and bought a polar fleece jacket just to keep me warm on the short trip over the water. I also thought about getting a wool hat but didn’t. I guess the…

• Fish Frenzy

  david

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  Fish Frenzy on the Elizabeth Street Pier. Photo by David Lansing. I was supposed to have dinner last night at Smolt, a swanky Hobart restaurant in equally swanky Salamanca Square. It’s small plates with a Spanish-Italian influence—housemade pickles, jamon Serrano, potato gnocchi with wild mushrooms—that sort of thing. Which all sounds swell. My only problems with it is that, one, I didn’t feel like dressing up and going someplace hip, and, two, it’s a joint venture with one of Tasmania’s biggest salmon farmers, Tassal. So they’re also pushing Tassal salmon ceviche and Tassal…

• Sleeping in the old jam factory

  david

  7 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  The old brick walls and wooden beams in my room were once part of the IXL Jam factory. We’re motoring around the Huon Valley south of Hobart, Sally and I, passing by roadside stalls selling cherries and peaches and raspberries and apples. Lots and lots of fruit. Sally, who runs a food and wine tour company called Herbaceous Tours, tells me that the acres of fruit trees and berry farms we are passing through are nothing compared to what they used to be around here. “Did you know that the hotel you’re staying at, the Henry Jones, used to be a jam factory?” she asks. I did not. “For a…

• Wallaby, goat, and rabbit

  david

  6 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  The medallions of wallaby at Henry's in the Henry Jones Art Hotel. Photos by David Lansing. As I was walking through the hotel lobby Saturday afternoon, the concierge called me over. He had an envelope with my name on it, a note from Chef Andre. It said: “Ross’s wallaby has arrived. Will prepare it for your dinner tonight in Henry’s.” Well, I’d asked for this but I have to say that now it was coming to fruition, I had mixed emotions. On the one hand, I’m always excited about trying things I’ve never had before–like wallaby. On the other hand, I had agreed to…

• Searching for mutton bird oil

  david

  3 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  Busy Sullivans Cove in Hobart with The Henry Jones Art Hotel in the middle. The Orion pulled in to Macquarie Wharf in Hobart while we were having our breakfast; we disembarked around nine this morning. I had to walk all of about a hundred yards to the Henry Jones Art Hotel where I’m staying for a couple of days. It just so happened that as I was checking in, the executive chef, Andre Kropp, came out of the hotel restaurant, Henry’s. I introduced myself and asked if, by any chance, Ross O’Meara had sent over the wallaby he’d promised me. Andre said this was the first he’d heard of…

• 

  Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

• The Weekly Photo: Bath, England

  NomadicMatt

  5 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am

  Looking out from the Roman baths in Bath, England

• Phnom Penh, I Love You!

  NomadicMatt

  4 Feb 2012 | 9:00 am

  It was 2007 and I was only meant to be in Phnom Penh for three days. I had less than a month in Cambodia before I moved to Thailand and I wanted to explore as much as possible and get off the tourist trail a bit. But three days became four, and four became seven, and seven became ten. Every day, I woke up and thought to myself “I’ll get the bus tomorrow” and rolled over and went back to bed.I’d walk out of my room into the common area overlooking the lake and slink down next to my friends. “What movie are we watching today?” I would ask. Later, we’d go out for lunch, relax…

• The Tragic Death of Phnom Penh’s Lake

  NomadicMatt

  1 Feb 2012 | 2:00 pm

  In my close to six years travel the world, my days on the lake in Phnom Penh, Cambodia still remain some of my favorite. I had come for a few days and stayed for a few weeks. I spent my days in the famous Number 9 Guesthouse on the lake, watching movies, having a few cold beers, meeting fellow travelers from around the world, and watching the sun set over the lake. We had a perfect view as the bank of the lake faced due west. At night, my friends (all of whom also got “stuck” in the city) and I would eat cheap Indian food, play poker, and head to our local haunt – The Drunken Frog.

• How Much a Holiday in Thailand Costs

  NomadicMatt

  30 Jan 2012 | 2:00 pm

  Thailand can be as expensive or inexpensive a country to visit as you want it to be. This is a country where you can stay in $3 USD per night rooms or $1000 USD per night resorts. Twenty cent street food or 300 dollar gourmet dinners. Thailand really runs the gamut. When my friends came to visit last December, they budgeted $1,700 USD for their 3 week trip. “No problem,” I said, “that’s more than enough for Thailand. This country is cheap.” But what I realized as I traveled with people on a limited time frame, is that there is big difference in budgeting for a…

• The Weekly Photo: St. Stephen’s Basilica

  NomadicMatt

  29 Jan 2012 | 8:15 am

  The inside of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, Hungary

• 

  The Word From The Timeshare Crusader

• Of Course Consumers Are Confused

  Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:21 am

  Yesterday I received two postcards from the same company claiming to take my timeshare off my hands for only $585, although "some" may be higher.  The postcard had the Better Business Bureau's logo on it.This joins the pile of other postcards and mailers from other companies, the list of phone calls from companies claiming "no upfront fees" and of course the Facebook and other ads from similar companies.I often marvel at the fact that so many timeshare owners are taken for a ride over and over again, oftentimes costing them thousands of dollars each time.But then I thought about it and…

• OK People, We Have A Whole Year To Get Our Act Together

  Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader

  6 Feb 2012 | 8:29 am

  30 second spots on yesterday's SuperBowl were going for about $3.5 million.  There are about 1,500 timeshare resorts in the United States.  I'll need a full :60 seconds to tell a really compelling story.Do the math...if every US timeshare resort coughed up about $5,000 (or roughly twice the cost of the special assessment that DRI recently levied on each of its Popui owners...sorry, I digress) the timeshare industry would be able to reach a huge audience with a positive, truthful message.Add to that the media buzz that these SuperBowl ads generate and the You Tube replays and we…

• Another Fake RCI Meeting

  Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader

  3 Feb 2012 | 4:25 pm

  Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to stop.  Here is the latest information that RCI has sent out about fake RCI meetings taking place in the Bradenton, Florida area: Dear____,RCI has learned that a third party has invited certain RCI subscribing members residing in the Bradenton, Florida area to an "RCI update" meeting at a local Perkins restaurant some time this week.  RCI has not arranged for these meetings or contracted with any party to provide an update at such meetings on RCI's behalf.  Please exercise caution if you are contacted by anyone claiming to be related to RCI and…

• What We Do and Why We're Different

  Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader

  31 Jan 2012 | 8:46 am

  I've received LOTS of e-mails lately from confused consumers asking what Timeshare Insights does and how we differ from other companies/organizations out there.WHAT WE DOWe educate, we write, we consult and we sometimes (oftentimes) rant  We DON'T sell, rent, buy, broker, list, transfer or represent any timeshare or any timeshare company.  We DON'T get a commission or kickback from any company we may recommend a consumer use.  We DON'T play favorites.We gather information from many places in an attempt to make things clearer for the consumer.  We also work with timeshare…

• Two Important Meetings

  Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader

  30 Jan 2012 | 8:16 am

  On Sunday, February 12th, the Orlando area meeting of the National Timeshare Owners Assocation will be meeting.  On Sunday, March 18th, the first meeting of 2012 will be held by the Florida Timeshare Ownes Group.Why do I keep harping on these meetings?  Because there are over 4 million timeshare owners in the United States and the combined attendance at these meetings will be no more than 250.Really?  250 people interested enough in finding out more about timeshare, new ways of using their timeshare, exchanging information about resorts increasing annual fees, resorts going…

• 

  GoNOMAD Website RSS Feed

• A Cruise to Iceland and then to West Greenland: Spectacular Scenery

  6 Feb 2012 | 9:12 am

  A cruise through the icebergs and to see the incredible scenery of West Greenland and Iceland.

• Namibia: A Horseback Safaria across the desert

  6 Feb 2012 | 9:10 am

  It's billed as a challenge to anyone who knows how to ride. After riding in Kenya and Botswana, Dina Bennett decided to challenge Namibia's desert on a horseback safari.

• Contemporary Art in Languedoc-Roussillon, France

  3 Feb 2012 | 4:01 pm

  Kent St. John admires contemporary art and visits the charming seaside village of Sete in Languedoc-Rousillon, France.

• Sleeping in England's Treehouse Hotels

  30 Jan 2012 | 3:10 pm

  Here are four hotels in the trees....tree house accommodations all over England.

• Do Travel Writers Go to Hell? You decide!

  30 Jan 2012 | 9:09 am

  Thomas Kohnstamm goes to Brazil and is assigned to review 100s of hotels and resorts. How does he possibly do this on his meager Lonely Planet wages? How does any travel writer do this? Find out in this really hilarious book.

• 

  Travellious.com

• Desktop Calendar: February 2012

  kelly

  31 Jan 2012 | 6:16 pm

  I'm just back from a trip to the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, home to lovely beaches, including this one in Las Terrenas. Now that I'm home in chilly Seattle, I'm wishing I had stayed put, but staring at this photo warms me up a bit and allows me to daydream about my next beach adventure. In the coming weeks, I'll be sharing my experiences and ideas for trips to the Dominican Republic. But until then, check out these old beach posts for inspiration. Choose the size that best fits your screen. I've also added an iPhone wallpaper this month that works well on your lock screen,…

• Forget The Guidebook: Los Angeles

  austin

  31 Jan 2012 | 10:01 am

  We think the web is full of great "travel guides," created by people who live and love the places we visit. Before you shell out a dime on a mass-produced book, check out these great blogs and websites before your next trip to Los Angeles, and get a taste of the city as locals see it. Image: Kansas Sebastian. Los Angeles, California is a huge city. It's hundreds of square miles of neighborhoods, highways, and beautiful sunshine. It's also home to countless foodies, music fans, taco trucks, and relentless lovers of their home city. To help you plan your next visit to the city of Angels, I've…

• Artsmart Roundtable: Frescoes, Wall Art, and the Test of Time

  kelly

  30 Jan 2012 | 12:58 pm

  Art Smart Image: Binder.donedat. Many people, when they first stand in front of a fresco, think that they're looking at a work straight from the hand of the artist. While there is some truth to that though, what many don't realize is that there are many other hands that have worked, manipulated, and restored the painting over the years. The next time you're standing in front of a fresco, admire the genius of the artist, but also think about the many ways that the painting has survived throughout the years. read more

• CES 2012 Travel Tech Roundup

  austin

  16 Jan 2012 | 9:55 am

  Image: jaymiheimbuch. CES, the yearly technology extravaganza in Las Vegas, offers the gadget and gear lover an almost endless array of new toys to drool over. This year seemed focused on thin laptops, sleek tablets and smart TVs. But what about tech for the traveler, especially ones who already have all the laptops and tablets that they could want? I went searching through the products released at CES and found a few that could help keep your devices powered and connected while you're on the road, even better than ones I've seen in the past. Keep reading to see what I found. read more

• Ten Travellious Destinations for 2012

  kelly

  12 Jan 2012 | 5:52 pm

  Recently, I've been going crazy at the daily announcement of yet another "hot places to travel in 2012" list. Everyone is doing them and I can't help but wonder, what purpose do they serve? Are they the work of lazy journalists who aren't quite ready to ramp up to serious work in a post-holiday coma? Or are tourism boards pleading with the powers that be to get their name front and center? It's probably a mix of things and unless you're concerned with being travel trendy, they do little to inspire your travel plans. Not wanting to be left out of the list making phenomenon and wanting to take…

• 

  Dawn on the Amazon Captains Blog

• No Bush Meat Or Endangered Species Served At Dawn on the Amazon Cafe

  Captain Bill

  17 Jan 2012 | 2:18 pm

  I’m madder than hell that bush meat is sold illegally in 90% of the restaurants in Iquitos! Travelers pay me to see wild life. Not to eat it! The Dawn on the Amazon Cafe never has and will never serve jungle animal meat, or any endangered species such as paiche. Please support the restaurants that do not serve bush meat or endangered species. If you read the menu of the restaurant you are in and there are choices such as caiman, lagarto, alligator, turtle, tortuga, tortoise, turtle eggs, majas, agoute, peccary, wild pig, deer, venado, armadillo, carachupa, capybara, ronsoco, tapir,…

• Great Amazon Raft Race One Of The Greatest Races To Watch Live, Lonely Planet

  Captain Bill

  12 Jan 2012 | 12:51 pm

  I was pleased to learn that Lonely Planet, one of the most prestigious travel guides in the world, recognized that the Great River Amazon Raft Race is one of the greatest races to watch live. Those of us in Iquitos where the Great Amazon Raft Race is based have known that for 13 years. I expect the 2012 race, will be the greatest raft race ever. The Great River Amazon Raft Race is in good company. Among Lonely Planet’s other top ten greatest races to watch are the Tour de France from the finish line at Champs-Élysées, Paris, the Dakar Rally, in Chile and Argentina, (and now Peru), the…

• Iquitos, One Of Lonely Planets Top Ten Best Value Destinations

  Captain Bill

  10 Jan 2012 | 11:12 am

  Three cheers, 21 gun salute, Lonely Planet gave Iquitos more love by naming our charming city to their Top Ten Best Value Destinations for 2012. Best value does not mean cheapest because Iquitos shares the list with Japan, Northeastern United States, and San Fransisco. Last year Lonely Planet included Iquitos in their list of Top 10 Cites To Visit In 2011. This year Iquitos is one of the top ten value destinations. Lonely Planet also gives Dawn on the Amazon more love with the live link for Iquitos going to Dawn on the Amazon Tours and Cruises. Thank you Lonely Planet. I love you too. Here is…

• Happy New Year In The Golden Age

  Captain Bill

  31 Dec 2011 | 1:22 pm

  Many of us believe 2012 will be the beginning of a new golden age of enlightenment and prosperity. Let’s start now to create our renaissance. Create your Happy New Year… Happy New Year Bill Grimes reporting from Iquitos Peru. Bookmark This Post

• Iquitos Police In Case Of Trouble

  Captain Bill

  28 Dec 2011 | 2:21 pm

  Iquitos police in case of trouble… Morona Police Station, Iquitos Calle Morona 120, Iquitos. Telephone: (065) 23-1123. Attention: 24 hours. Punchana Police Station Av. de la Marina/28 de Julio. Telephone: (065) 25-1970. Attention: 24 hours. Tourism Police – POLTUR Iquitos. Calle Sargento Lores 834. Telephone: (065) 24-2081. Attention: 24 hours. Iquitos Police In Case Of Trouble Bill Grimes reporting from Iquitos Peru for you. Bookmark This Post

• 

  Common Sense and Whiskey

• The Katherine Gorge, Australia's Northern Territory - Wednesday HDR

  Bill

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:46 am

  Here's the photogenic Katherine Gorge in Australia's Northern Territory. There was about a half day stop on the Ghan train between Darwin and Adelaide, and the only way to get in in that amount of time was with a kind of paddle boat thing with twenty or so others. With a little determination, you could get out ahead of the others in time to set your tripod down and fire off a few photos without getting Phil and Marge from Brisbane in the picture. As usual, it's multiple shots with a Nikon D-700, combined in Photomatix, finished with Nik plug-ins and CS5. There are 354 more HDRs…

• Common Sense and Whiskey, the Book - Tibet, Chapter Eleven

  Bill

  7 Feb 2012 | 10:26 am

  Here is Chapter Eleven of Common Sense and Whiskey, the book. We're publishing each chapter here on the blog (Track down previous chapters here). You can order the entire book at Amazon.com, at BN.com, or direct from EarthPhotos Publishing. Here's the Kindle version (just $6.99). Click these photos to make them bigger. More photos and additional commentary are available at A Common Sense and Whiskey Companion. And here's the China Gallery at EarthPhotos.com. 11 TIBET Ashray Raj Gautam waited in the dark before dawn. Men worked under the hood of his Toyota Corolla while we…

• New Affiliations

  Bill

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:37 am

  You can now read CS&W as part of Open Salon and we're on Scribd.com, too. I'll share Chapter One of Common Sense and Whiskey, the book (Amazon.com, BN.com, Kindle), at both places today. Meanwhile, later today we'll publish Chapter Thirteen of Common Sense and Whiskey, Tibet, here on the blog.

• The Vatican, Rome - Wednesday HDR

  Bill

  1 Feb 2012 | 8:48 am

    Here's an HDR combined from three exposures, not exactly hand held, but propped up on the wall at the Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome. That's the Tiber River on the left, and the dome in the background, center, is the Vatican. Click it to make it bigger. There are 354 more HDRs here at EarthPhotos.com. Shot with a Nikon D-700, made HDR in Photomatix, finished with Nik plug-ins and CS5.

• Friday Photo Quiz #140 - Where in the World?

  Bill

  27 Jan 2012 | 8:14 am

  It's a UNESCO World Heritage site in a formerly war torn land. Can you name the city? The country? The answer is below. And a good weekend to all from Common Sense and Whiskey and EarthPhotos.com. And the answer is ..................................................... it's Dubrovnik, Croatia. When Croatia declared its independence from the former Yugoslavia, Yugoslavia’s federal army attacked in October 1991.  Cultured Traveler says, "The walls that have encircled Dubrovnik for more than 700 years, one of the most beautiful and strongest fort systems in Europe, could not…

• 

  Writing Travel

• The year is new, everywhere, every day, and not just for dragons

  Lanora @WritingTravel

  25 Jan 2012 | 9:53 pm

  Chinese New Year reminds me that a new year can start any day of one's life. Here are a few of my favorite sites celebrating this week's beginning of the Year of the Dragon. Based in Taiwan, Carrie Kellenberger shares her experience of last year's Year of the Lion Lunar New Year Celebrations in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia Borneo. From Malaysia, Wilson Ng & Rachel Ting's PlacesandFoods.com blog features their Neroteca Meatilicous Chinese New Year 2012. Alas, no dragon meat appears among the many carnivorous treats.  In Southern California, Kayte Deioma lists all the Los Angeles-area Chinese…

• Passports with Purpose almost halfway to goal, six days to go

  Lanora @WritingTravel

  10 Dec 2011 | 5:37 pm

  Don't forget to add your ten bucks (or more) to help Passports with Purpose reach our $80,000 Room To Read fundraising goal. Prize entries close at 11:59PM PST on Friday, December 16. Besides the two prizes featured here on Writing Travel thanks to the generous donations of Authentic Seacoast Resorts and Think Tank Photo, there are dozens of other super travel-related prizes you could win for only $10.00. Just a few of the many great donations: Bike and cruise the coast of Thailand. Raft and camp the Lower Salmon River. Spend nine days in Costa Rica or eight days in the wilderness of the…

• Super prizes for Passports with Purpose 2011 fundraiser donated by Think Tank Photo and Authentic Seacoast Resorts of Guysborough, Nova Scotia

  Lanora @WritingTravel

  30 Nov 2011 | 3:25 am

  Passports with Purpose 2011, the travel bloggers fundraiser, begins today, November 30, and runs through December 16 with the aggressive goal of raising $80,000 to build not one but two libraries for children in Zambia in partnership with Room To Read. For more information about how to donate and possibly win one of the valuable prizes secured by the dozens of participating travel bloggers, check out the PwP donation page. I'm delighted to be promoting two prizes this year. Authentic Seacoast Resorts is again donating a getaway to their properties on the scenic eastern shore of Nova…

• Wednesday Window: Galerie Christian Bergeron, Old Quebec City

  Lanora @WritingTravel

  23 Nov 2011 | 11:20 am

• Guitar serenade, Algonquin Mill, Carollton County, Ohio

  Lanora @WritingTravel

  22 Nov 2011 | 10:00 pm

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  Hole In The Donut Cultural Travel

• PHOTO: PeruRail Vistadome train offers panoramic views of Sacred Valley on ride to Machu Picchu

  Barbara Weibel

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:05 pm

• PHOTO: Riding the train through the Sacred Valley from Cusco to Machu Picchu

  Barbara Weibel

  7 Feb 2012 | 8:30 pm

• Safe Passage at the Border between Ecuador and Peru

  Barbara Weibel

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:06 am

  As my time in Ecuador grew to a close I vacillated over the best way to make the border crossing into Peru. Although it was possible to take a bus directly south from Cuenca to Peru, the trip would have required an eight to ten-hours bus ride to Zumba, changing to a Chiva (open sided bus) for the ride to the border town of La Balsa, a stop at the immigration offices to get stamped out of Ecuador, and finally a 2.5 hour ride in a colectivo (local pick-up truck with bench seats) to the town of San Ignacio. At that point I would still be on the eastern side of Peru, far from my intended…

• PHOTO: Taiwan cultural dancers perform at the LA Times Travel Show 2012

  Barbara Weibel

  6 Feb 2012 | 8:30 pm

• PHOTO: Sunset turns the buildings of the Getty Museum in Los Angeles shades of peach and gold

  Barbara Weibel

  5 Feb 2012 | 6:30 pm

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  Spot Cool Stuff: Travel

• The Best View in the Alps

  Spot Cool Travel Stuff

  9 Feb 2012 | 9:58 am

  When the world’s highest climbing cable car brings you to the highest mountain in the Alps you know you are in for an amazing view. But maybe not this amazing. The scene from the summit of Aiguilles de Chamonix, a jagged mountain high in the middle of the Mont Blanc massif, is the single most spectacular in the whole of the Alps. It might be the best mountain view that doesn’t involve hiking, flying or driving available anywhere. Here’s how to make the trip: click image to open full size in new window: The trip to the panoramic view atop the Alps starts in lovely, if…

• The Luxurious Boat-Room Resort

  Spot Cool Travel Stuff

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:10 am

  The Dhoni has been a central feature of life in the Maldives for nearly as long as there’s been a recorded history of people living there. Traditionally, Dhonis were small sailing vessel built from coconut palm wood. Today, a Dhoni (pronounced: “doh-nee”) comes in a variety of sizes and is as likely to be powered by an engine as it is by the gentle trade winds that grace the Maldives. Travel around that archipelago of tropical islands south of India and you’ll see Dhonis everywhere. People fish in them. Children ride to school in them. Merchants sell their goods from…

• The Mystery of the Crooked Forest

  Spot Cool Travel Stuff

  17 Jan 2012 | 11:21 am

  The Crooked Forest is a place we could almost have listed in our review of travel places that look like Dr. Seuss illustrations if weren’t tinged with such creepiness. The forest is more like the sort of place a band of weary heroes would have to traverse towards the end of a dark fairy tale. Or maybe it would work best for a scene in a mystery novel. That would be apropos since the trees here are in themselves a mystery. Here’s what is known: • Sometime in the early 1930s, someone planted about 400 trees near the town of Greifenhagen in what was then Germany. • Something…

• A New York City Night Out, Mad Men-Style

  Spot Cool Travel Stuff

  9 Jan 2012 | 4:03 pm

  The “swinging ‘60s” might be so last millennium, but partying like Mad Men’s purveyor of cool, Don Draper, is about as current as it gets. In honor of the new season of the cool AMC show Mad Men, here’s your guide to a retro night out in New York City, from kitschy New York bars to lounges specializing in Old Fashioneds and Mint Juleps: Oak Bar go for an aperitif The ‘60s were all about having a freewheeling, party-time attitude. The best way to channel that era today s by heading to an elegant bar for a very potent cocktail. First up, visit the Plaza Hotel for the city’s…

• Have Bag Will Charge Gadgets

  Spot Cool Travel Stuff

  9 Jan 2012 | 3:41 pm

  A handful of companies have been working on bags with built-in batteries capable of charging gadgets on-the-go. Most of those efforts have relied on slow and fussy solar panels to charge the bag. A few others are either very expensive or don’t work well. One very promising battery bag from Quirky, a cool online store of crowdsourced products, spent a year available for pre-order but never went into production. Which is why Spot Cool Stuff is thrilled that there’s one company is getting the bag-with-built-in-battery right: Powerbag. Read the rest on our technology review blog

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  Brilliant Tips from BrilliantTrips.com

• The Kimberley – Hidden Treasure in Remote Australia

  Chris

  5 Feb 2012 | 7:57 am

  From the saltwater Bardi culture, pristine beaches, rugged red cliffs of Cape Leveque and the multicultural city of Broome to the surreal rock scape of the Bungle Bungle beehives and the hidden waterfalls and palm oases of Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge, the Kimberley is like no other place on earth. Located in the northern [...]

• Akaroa – New Zealand’s Only French Settlement

  Chris

  2 Feb 2012 | 10:14 am

  The charming township of Akaroa sits at the edge of a pleasing harbor inside the eroded crater of a gigantic, extinct volcano. Akaroa is located an hour and a half drive southeast of Christchurch on Banks Peninsula, the South Island’s most impressive volcanic feature. The peninsula has two prevailing craters which form Lyttelton and Akaroa [...]

• Sapa, Vietnam – The Alps of the North Sea

  Chris

  30 Jan 2012 | 10:22 pm

  Sapa is an astonishingly picturesque village near the Chinese border in northwest Vietnam. An old French hill station nestled among the Hoang Lien Son Mountains, Sapa is one of the most scenic mountain locations in Vietnam. Often referred to as the “Tonkinese Alps” or the “Alps of the North Sea,” the Hoang Lien Mountain Range [...]

• The San Telmo Antiques Fair

  Chris

  23 Jan 2012 | 12:22 am

  Known for its bohemian charm and historic appeal, the quaint and funky Buenos Aires barrio of San Telmo is full of energy every day. However, on Sundays, it truly comes to life. Every Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, the Plaza Dorrego is home to the San Telmo Antiques Fair. To call this an [...]

• Dog Sledding in Canada

  Chris

  20 Jan 2012 | 12:29 am

  If you're looking for an outdoor winter experience that's out of the ordinary, try a Canadian dog sled adventure. A truly unique outdoor winter activity, dog sledding is Canada’s traditional and oldest mode of winter transportation. Most people find the feeling of commanding their own dog sled team along trails through pristine valleys and over mountain ridges to be very inspirational. A truly Canadian activity in every way, dog sledding is a fun and interesting way to enjoy winter landscapes and is also a pretty good physical workout.

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  The Elite Travel Gal

• Luxury Hotels I LOVED in 2011

  22 Jan 2012 | 9:47 am

  Some hotels just do everything right. Or nearly everything. And, as we roll into another busy year of booking luxury travel for some of the coolest people on the planet, I've been reflecting on those properties I personally visited in 2011 that top my list of winners. These are the hotels that have earned a spot on my "top of mind" list, for various reasons ranging from impeccable service to ultra-cool design to impressive renovations to tiny details that wow every time.There are of course, SO many phenomenal hotels we love, and will add to future lists as we revisit them this year or in the…

• An Optimistic Take on 2012

  6 Jan 2012 | 5:08 pm

  While I don't agree with the title "Travel Agents Set to Bounce Back in 2012" of this article written by Adam Leposa, it's always refreshing to read anything that validates what it is we at Elite Travel International do for our clients! I've long believed that even our most tech-savvy and sophisticated clients fully understand and appreciate my expertise and continue to witness how our extensive worldwide connections benefit them as they jetset around the globe. An excerpt of the article is below in case you missed the link on my Facebook page or Twitter feed. According to Adam Leposa of…

• Acqualina Resort and Spa: Miami Nice!

  27 Nov 2011 | 6:09 pm

  When a 12-year old kid says "I want to live in this hotel" as he is leaving, you know it has to be a special place. Such was the case with my nephew, who joined me for a post-Thanksgiving weekend on the beach at Acqualina Resort and Spa in Sunny Isles (near Miami), FL. He's not the only one who feels this way! I too, found myself thinking I could easily live here in our huge one-bedroom oceanview suite with its incredible beach views, gourmet kitchen (perfect for preparing Sunday brunch en suite), a bathroom the size of many hotel rooms, and a staff that simply couldn't be nicer. From Rodrigo…

• Virtuoso Travel Mart = My Fashion Week

  16 Sep 2011 | 12:27 pm

  A few weeks ago, I returned from the annual Virtuoso Travel Mart in Las Vegas where I had the chance to meet with hundreds of top luxury hotels and travel companies....in person, one on one....and hear about the latest, greatest openings, renovations, excusive promotions and unique opportunities for our jet-setting clients. In essence, Virtuoso Travel Mart to someone like me who eats, breathes, sleeps luxury travel is akin to New York Fashion Week for the fashionistas. It's the ultimate "Travel Buyer's Market" and an incredible way for me to find out what's hot and happening in the luxury…

• Summer in the Mountains

  8 Aug 2011 | 8:56 pm

  In between booking incredible summer and fall vacations for our clients, I made an executive decision to take a much-needed, long weekend break to a hot new property I've been dying to see before it even opened. A huge fan of its sisters at the beach in Laguna and close by in Beverly Hills, I had no doubt that I'd fall in love at first sight with Montage Deer Valley. My hunch was 1000 percent correct, the newest Montage resort did NOT disappoint. With its wonderful setting just minutes from downtown Park City, Utah and slopeside in Deer Valley amidst a backdrop of seemingly endless mountains,…

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  Lifecruiser

• Travel Photo: Prague Bankomat

  Lifecruiser

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:42 pm

  I captured this bankomat photo on an unknown street in Prague, Czech Republic. Bankomat means ATM. Though I doubt it that you can get out any money from this one… My guess is that it used to be an ATM there before and that someone were having a bit fun here… ha ha… ©Lifecruiser Love Fun Travel Photos Copyright © 2012 Lifecruiser. This Feed is for personal non-commercial use only. If you are not reading this material in your news aggregator, the site you are looking at is guilty of copyright infringement. Please contact Captain Lifecruiser at lifecruiser.com so we…

• Swedish Tourist Organisation STF Mobile Site

  Lifecruiser

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:55 pm

  The Swedish Tourist Organisation STF’s mobile site mobil.stfturist.se is used by many travelers to find a budget stay for the night, but perhaps most Swedish travelers or at least those who understand Swedish? However I believe that it’s simple enough to use even without knowing Swedish. The most useful feature is that you have the choice to search for a budget stay (boende) with the help of the GPS navigator in your mobile phone, making it very easy to find a hostel nearby where you happen to be at the moment. Very useful indeed if you ever come to Sweden! Explanations of the…

• Lennons Love and Peace Wall Prague

  Lifecruiser

  7 Feb 2012 | 2:00 pm

  There is a very special wall in Prague in Czech Republic: John Lennon’s Love and Peace wall. It’s called that because from the beginning in the eighties it had a portrait of Lennon and has since then been filled with words and graphics from Beatles songs, many times as a political message. This is a wall that is highly alive, people goes there all the time, either to read or to write upon it. Layers and layers of public messages. The authorities has tried to paint over all the drawings, but somehow it resurrects… It has become a bit tourist attraction of Prague. A symbol of…

• Prague Ghostly Dripstone Wall

  Lifecruiser

  6 Feb 2012 | 2:00 pm

  When we were in Prague we spotted the strangest wall I’ve ever seen: the Grotesquery, an artificial and truly ghostly dripstone wall, looking like it were inside a limestone cave. Just the fact that the wall is dark, makes me think it’s extra ghostly and if taking a closer look at the dripstone wall, you can spot animals and monsters as well as some faces here and there. The dripstone wall was made by Italians in the 17th century and is located in the Wallensteins garden below the Prague castle. We did not take any more pictures from the garden - the wall took all our attention!

• Mediterranean Dream Cruises

  Lifecruiser

  5 Feb 2012 | 4:10 pm

  Going on a Mediterranean cruise is a dream of mine right now, when sitting in a chilly location with snow. I just can’t choose which one of all the extremely tempting Med Cruises I would choose before the other… I want them all. Just the thought of being cruising on the Mediterranean Sea excites me! Photo by Tambako Feeling the freedom in the picture above? Me too - and the salty sea breeze that always make me feel more alive. The Mediterranean Sea might be my favorite sea so far. So wonderfully bright and clear. There are so many interesting and beautiful countries around Europe…

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  The Longest Way Home | Travel Blog

• Everest Base Camp Trek Day 2: First glimpse of Mount Everest

  Dave from The Longest Way Home

  7 Feb 2012 | 4:55 pm

  First look at Mount Everest on the Everest Base Camp trek, we won't be seeing that again for a while! (click to enlarge)A view of Mount EverestToday we make an attempt at reaching Namche Bazaar which is a popular trading village along the Everest Base Camp Trek trail. The trail is all up with a few little flat stretches. Last night I slept well under big thick blankets. This morning there was no water due to frozen pipes so it looks like my two weeks of no washing is about to begin. Tea Tree oil is my savior. As are pancakes, big ones.It also helps that there is no one around. No…

• Everest Base Camp Trek Day 1: The trek, the Yak, the boots

  Dave from The Longest Way Home

  5 Feb 2012 | 4:46 pm

  A hair raising flight over with, it's straight into the mountains from Lukla!Welcome to the start of the Everest Base Camp trek!Arriving in Lukla is akin to arriving into a trekkers paradise. On the first day of the Everest base camp trek fresh cold mountain air fills your lungs as the last bastion of trekking stores tempt you with what you might have forgotten.Moreover ones mind is filled with imaginary visions of all those who’ve gone before you. And, yes. This is the same path that they too took.Those heading to the peak walk the same walk. There is something about this notion…

• Everest Base Camp Trek Day 1 The Arrival: Everything you need to know about flying to Lukla

  Dave from The Longest Way Home

  1 Feb 2012 | 4:36 pm

  This is the tiny airstrip you will land on, basically a cliff face. And, the sun is not up over the mountain yet on the first flight!How to get to Mount Everest Base Camp (Day 1)Choices in starting an Everest base camp trekThere are actually several ways to reach Everest Base camp. Because there are in fact two base camps!North Everest Base camp located in Tibet. Tibet permit and a permit from the Chinese government needed. Can be reached by jeep during the summer seasons.South Everest Base camp – Located in Nepal. Permit needed, and bought on the way. Yes, this is the popular…

• The importance of documenting your experiences in life with a journal

  Dave from The Longest Way Home

  29 Jan 2012 | 4:23 pm

  Bhaktapur Durbar Square Nepal - what was it like to travel Nepal then compared to now, or should we even care? Would a persons journal matter?The lost of art of writing for yourselfI’ve just finished writing my winter Everest Base Camp trek for a series starting later in the week here. During the trek I hand wrote into a little notebook. I’ve gone through quite a few notebooks over the past decade. Keeping a journal has helped from planning to daily diaries that’s been both a chore and a resource in writing everything down.Upon transferring my Everest trek journal over…

• Colorful boats from The Philippines

  Dave from The Longest Way Home

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:20 pm

  Colorful boats known as Banka's of a sandbar island in The PhilippinesColorful boats from The Philippines are also known as BankasIf you ever go to The Philippines make sure you get time for some island hopping. You’ll be treated to a ride on one of these colorful boats in The Philippines also known as “Bankas”.Facts about Bankas:Bankas come in different sizes and can transport anywhere between 1 and 20 peopleThe boats can be both motorized, or simply have a man with a paddleThey are not just for tourists, they are genuinely used for local activities such as fishing, and…

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  My Itchy Travel Feet

• Dining like a local in Madrid

  Donna Hull

  7 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

   Alan and I are boomers who like nothing better than to dine with the locals, like we did on our road trip through Northern Italy. To us, it’s an excellent way of experiencing another culture. Today, Nicole Jewell, an ex-pat living in Madrid, who blogs at Pass the Ham?, shares her suggestions for Madrid dining like a local. Someone once told me that there are more than 400,000 bars and restaurants in Madrid. I don’t know if this number is accurate, but after living here for six years, I can tell you that this city is packed with great restaurants offering a range of choices from…

• Saturday’s scene: beyond Sydney

  Donna Hull

  3 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  Sydney Opera house A Sydney to Los Angeles cruise is next on our boomer travel schedule. Alan and I are boomers who can’t get enough of small ship cruising. After Virgin Australia whisks us across the Pacific, we’ll be ready to spend a couple of days exploring Sydney from our headquarters at the Four Seasons Sydney before cruising the Pacific on Seabourn Odyssey. Since this is our second trip to Australia’s Harbor City, we’ll be looking for adventure beyond the opera house and zoo. Here’s hoping that the weather won’t be as steamy as last time. Once we…

• Sponsor News for January and February

  Donna Hull

  1 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  Wow! Our first two months of 2012 have been so busy that we’ve had to combine sponsor news for January and February. Be sure to check out the health assessment from REAL Powered by Humana. It’s cool. With the start of the new year comes the opportunity for new beginnings. Why not start this year off on the right track? Get some help with your health goals with this Exercise and Nutrition Planner from your well-being experts, REAL Powered by Humana. Do you have a travel product or service that appeals to our baby boomer audience? Your company could be highlighted on this page.

• New Mexico Backroads Adventure

  Donna Hull

  30 Jan 2012 | 2:00 am

  Jennifer will discover handprints on her New Mexico backroads adventure Last week at the My Itchy Travel Feet page on Facebook (you have clicked the like button, right?) Jennifer asked, “I’m no Boomer, but I’m interested in taking a road trip to New Mexico. We’ve done Taos and Santa Fe, any hidden gems that you or your readers suggest we check out this spring?” Alan and I thought it would be fun to create a New Mexico road trip for Jennifer to a secret destination. Well, it’s not really a secret but does involve driving the backroads of New Mexico to an…

• Saturday’s scene: waiting for carnival

  Donna Hull

  28 Jan 2012 | 2:00 am

  Carnival costume in Rio de Janeiro What does a well-dressed boomer wear to carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil? How about one of the costumes from the Carnival Museum? When our Regent Seven Seas Navigator cruise ended in Rio, after sailing across the Atlantic from Cape Town, we had the entire day to tour with a private guide before our plane left for the U.S.  Madson Arajúo proudly showed us the sites of his hometown, including the Sambadrome. When our van parked along the concrete runway bordered by towering concrete stands, I thought we were at a racetrack. But Madson assured us that…

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  The Circumference - Inspired Travel!

• Kanamara Matsuri the Japanese Penis Festival

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:50 pm

  Japan. Published on February 09, 2012 by Vanessa BoiserThe StoryWhen people talk about traveling to Japan, stories are often recalled of scarlet sunrises over Mount Fuji or Cherry Blossom filled picnics. A diverse country, Japan combines old and new, and once a year on the streets in Kawasaki, it even goes a little crazy during the Kanamara Matsuri Festival! The Kanamara Matsuri Festival, also known as the Pink Penis Parade or Festival of the Steel Phallus, is a yearly fertility festival held at the Kanamara Shrine in Kawasaki, Japan. The festival originated during the Edo period (1603 -…

• Jeep Safari to Spot Wild Horses in Mongolia's Hustai National Park

  3 Feb 2012 | 9:47 pm

  Mongolia. Published on February 04, 2012 by Lydia SchrandtThe StoryIt's summertime in the Mongolian steppe, and at such a northern latitude, we must wake early to beat the sunrise. Even in mid-July, the predawn air is crisp and cool in Mongolia's Hustai National Park, home of the last surviving wild ancestor to the domestic horse. We begin emerging from out traditional Mongolian gers, bleary eyed with cups of steaming milk tea in hand. As the horizon begins to brighten, we caravan out of camp on a jeep safari to spot the world's last wild horses. The takhi horse, native to the rolling green…

• Ward Off Evil at the Setsubun Festival in Kyoto

  25 Jan 2012 | 8:16 am

  Japan. Published on January 25, 2012 by Vanessa BoiserThe StoryMake sure bad luck isn't lingering in your future by celebrating the Japanese Setsubun Festival. Held on the first day of the spring season, it was once thought to be a New Year's Eve of sorts which no one wanted to start off on the wrong foot. Also called the "Mame maki", locals began to throw beans to drive away evil spirits or "Oni" thought to abound during a change in season. Despite being one of the lesser-known Japanese Festivals, people still celebrate it at shrines and at home as part of centuries of tradition. Every year…

• Sample Traditional Chinese Street foods at the Donghuamen Night Market in Beijing

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:47 am

  China. Published on January 24, 2012 by Lydia SchrandtThe StoryChina is a veritable foodie's paradise with a unique culinary tradition in every province. Beijing is no exception. One of the best ways to sample some traditional Chinese street foods is at the Donghuamen Night Snack Street in Beijing. The long stretch of road is lined with vendors selling everything from the mundane noodles to the strange, unusual, and sometimes a bit disgusting, but all for a good price. Once the sun goes down, join the throngs of Chinese and international tourists who flock to Donghuamen to fill their bellies…

• Join Zasuul's in Encouraging Wrestlers at Mongolia's Naadam Festival

  23 Jan 2012 | 8:58 am

  Mongolia. Published on January 23, 2012 by Vanessa BoiserThe StoryOne strong personality comes to mind when thinking of Mongolia, Genghis Khan. The rule of Khan was legendary. He conquered almost half the globe and united the then fighting Mongols into a powerful army. On a softer side, Mongolia is a wonderful mixture of cultures from all over Asia, particularly China. Its vast regions team with Buddhist temples, and its snow capped mountains seem to graze the sky with splashes of green. Still maintaining its legendary power and culture, Mongolia's wild mixture of life old and new, is nowhere…

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  Boldly Go Solo

• Wandering solo in Richmond, Virginia, discovering black history

  Ellen Perlman

  5 Feb 2012 | 6:16 pm

  Green and white awnings and a small sign are all that distinguish the Richmond home of Maggie L. Walker from neighboring duplexes that have been carefully restored to their appearance circa 1925. What distinguished Walker in her day was her skill at overcoming all the obstacles society could place before a black woman living under Jim Crow segregation laws. But wait. Maggie who? The answer to that is in the story I wrote on Walker...

• Cross-country skiing on the beach, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

  Ellen Perlman

  29 Jan 2012 | 2:06 pm

  My tale of cross-country skiing on the beach in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, just south of Portland, is in The Washington Post today. A year later, that trip still feels magical. A beautiful inn. Fabulous skiing. Great food. It may be difficult to replicate the experience at the moment, due to the lack of snow this year. But it's something worth keeping on the "bucket list." I'm hoping that there will be snow somewhere in late...

• Israel for first-timers

  Ellen Perlman

  19 Jan 2012 | 1:06 am

  Boker Tov, (good morning) No time, no time. I've been in Israel for almost four days, seeing and learning a zillion things, so there's no time to post here. I've been to the Western (Wailing) wall and to the Temple Mount. To old Jerusalem and, as of last night, "new" Tel Aviv. Yad Vashem, Israel's Holocaust musesum, was a profound experience but too short a visit. There was one day in Jerusalem that I heard...

• The Christmas 11. Holiday hiking for those looking to get out of the house

  Ellen Perlman

  26 Dec 2011 | 3:11 pm

  The "11" refers to the number of miles. While others were unwrapping presents or scarfing down turkey or perhaps banging forlornly on the doors of closed stores, 20 of us gathered for a Christmas Day hike. A long one. It was hosted by the Wanderbirds, a hiking club that more typically hires a bus to drive hikers from the Washington, D.C., area to the Shenandoah Mountains for day-long, scenic hikes. The hike was one of...

• Top 20 "Lost in Translation" signs sent to Lonely Planet's photo contest

  Ellen Perlman

  11 Dec 2011 | 4:56 pm

  Somewhere along the line I traveled with someone who taught me the fun of photographing silly signs documenting the hilarious mangling of the English language by non-English speakers. No, these photographs never get blown up, matted or framed. But they're good for a laugh and for showing other people. I'm sure many people would appreciate being amused by someone's vacation photos, more so than having to ooh and aah over some beautiful sunset that they...

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  almost fearless

• Found In Translation: Week 2 (VIDEO)

  Christine Gilbert

  9 Feb 2012 | 5:36 am

  After my first week of Mandarin study, I give an update on how it’s going and Cole does his best Tigger impression as he leaps from couch to coffee table and back. Total study time this week: 27 hours Written characters memorized: 33 This week’s big verbal test: hiring a nanny in Mandarin If you are unable to see the video, click here.

• How to be Zen in China

  Christine

  6 Feb 2012 | 10:47 pm

  Okay, so I’m really beginning to enjoy China but these things keep happening to me. I’m fully aware of how stupid it sounds. I mean how many times can I say, “I swear it’s not me but…” before even my in-laws are emailing me travel advice? When people who have never left the US think they could handle China better than you, then maybe you should stop being so honest. “Maybe I could just write a post about dumplings or something,” I wonder. Dumplings! They are seriously wonderful pillows of heaven, but alas, no dumpling stories today, just the…

• TV Counts as Cultural Immersion (Right?)

  Christine

  5 Feb 2012 | 7:43 am

  Weekly photo: Where is Cole? Location: Beijing, China watching 喜羊羊与灰太狼 on youku.com The nanny starts on Tuesday, a Hebei-transplant who doesn’t speak any English but who is sweet and can at least pretend to understand my slightly mispronounced and wrong-toned Mandarin.  I consider her hire a big milestone for me, not only did I conduct the interview in Mandarin (with prepared notes) but managed such niceties as “would you like something to drink?” (no, she did not) and “please have a seat” (she did).  When I’m watching chinese cartoons…

• Found In Translation: Week 1 (VIDEO)

  Christine

  1 Feb 2012 | 7:35 am

  The only way to really talk about learning a language, is to talk about it.  I can’t imagine writing, “I am now super fluent in Mandarin” in six months, and having that suffice.  ”It’s amaaaazing.  Too bad there isn’t technology that will let you see me speaking this language or track my progress as I learn.” Oh crap.  Right.  We do have the equivilant of a traveling film studio because of our work on the documentary.  So here goes. Cole and I are learning Mandarin together.  I’m studying with a tutor,…

• And Then We Found An Apartment

  Christine Gilbert

  30 Jan 2012 | 2:23 am

  A friend said this to me via email, “You know, you’re not selling Beijing to me. You really aren’t. To be fair I never had much of a desire to go there before, but now? Not at all.” Okay, does this do it for you? That’s not an overexposed shot, that’s the view from my desk. According to BeijingAir right now it’s “unhealthy” levels. Last night it was perfectly clear and rated “good”. It comes, it goes, and after a month of living here, it’s as much a part of our life as the weather. Is it sunny out? How’s the air? I…

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  CityTrex

• Charles Dickens, still alive at 200

  Burton Sauls

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:01 pm

  Bleak House by Charles Dickens, presented by Robert R. Googins A local Dickensian will help celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens (1812-1870) with his excellent take on a masterwork of literature. Click the player to raise your IQ a few points by hearing an expert on an author that's as relevant today as in the 1800's: About 14 minutes or click here to hear it in QuickTime on your smart phone, iPad, etc. Bob Googins is a member of the Dickens International Fellowship and teaches a course on "Charles Dickens and the Law" at OLLI. This is one of several podcasts…

• Let's Try Shoofly!

  Burton Sauls

  7 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm

  Shoofly Kitchen Fresh and Affordable Food on the Fly Click for directions, menu, and to see just how great this place is. Close to USCB, too. . . (hint hint). Work it in. It's hereby deemed a Books Sandwiched In tradition . . . so now you have to.

• Charlie Frost brings another cultural activity to Beaufort

  Burton Sauls

  1 Feb 2012 | 4:55 pm

  Hidden in Plain View by Jacqueline L. Tobin and Raymond G. Dobard, reviewed by Charles D. Frost Click the player, hear a superb instructor share a story of secrets: About 12 minutes or click here to hear it in QuickTime on your smart phone, iPad, etc. Charles D. Frost has been Minister of Music at Sea Island Presbyterian Church, Beaufort, SC, since 2001. Mr. Frost serves on the Executive Committee of the Lowcountry Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Beaufort Orchestra, as well as Keyboardist for the orchestra. He is also Music Director…

• Artist Deanna Bowdish to present!

  Burton Sauls

  23 Jan 2012 | 4:22 pm

  "Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Steig Larrson, presented by Deanna Bowdish Click the player and listen to a real live dynamo (& stick around for the last 60 seconds): About 9 minutes or click here to hear it in QuickTime on your smart phone, iPad, etc. Deanna Bowdish is a wonderful artist and the owner of The Gallery in beautiful Beaufort, SC, an top arts town that has benefited greatly from her unique voice and creative style. Deanna serves on several business and civic boards, and has made a commitment to educate the community about the importance and necessity of the arts in all…

• Superintendent of the Beaufort County School District to scintillate.

  Burton Sauls

  19 Jan 2012 | 4:13 pm

  "That Used to be US", by Thomas Friedman, presented by Dr. Valerie Truesdale Valerie Truesdale has served as superintendent of the Beaufort County School District since 2007. Dr. Truesdale is perfect to discuss the sense of urgency needed in education in our country. Hear her call for collective action on a large scale, with a favorite quote for a "can-do, get it done, everyone pull together, whatever it takes attitude". Click the player and hear the January 23 preview: About 5 minutes or click here to hear it in QuickTime on your smart phone, iPad, etc. Monday January 23, 2012 Noon to 1:00…

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  The Mother of all Trips

• The Freedom Trail then and now

  Mara

  3 Feb 2012 | 6:44 am

  Click on the image to see a full-sized version. What a difference 8 years make! The photo on the left is from our 2003 stay in Boston; on the right see our 2011 recreation of that special moment. Next week I’ll share our story of walking the Freedom Trail (this photo comes right in the middle), including a separate post about visiting the Old South Meeting House, which was one of our favorite places along the path. I’ll finish up our Boston trip by writing about the New England Aquarium. For Photo Friday at Delicious Baby. Want more information on visiting Boston with kids? Check…

• How do you bring history to life for kids?

  admin

  2 Feb 2012 | 11:06 am

  I have always liked history, and as fortune would have it, I married a man who shares that interest. Maybe it’s because I enjoy stories, but to me there’s something so amazing in the idea that at every point in recorded time ordinary people have been going about their day-to-day business with the same kinds of concerns that we have today. And I’m fairly ecumenical in my tastes – want to share the history of the ball bearing? The pencil? Cheese? I’m all eyes and ears. But just because I’m a sucker for pretty much any kind of diorama, interactive display, or…

• Breakfast and books in Beantown

  admin

  1 Feb 2012 | 11:25 am

  We’re a breakfast-loving family, so much so that we often eat that meal twice when we’re on the road – once in our hotel room at whatever ridiculously early hour the boys decide to rise – and then again later in the morning once we’ve headed out to explore. Since we often skip a sit-down lunch in favor of a snack on the go, this “second breakfast” is an important meal. My criteria for it are fairly straightforward: It needs to be big. It needs to be good. And it never hurts when the bacon is fine and the coffee finer. Trident Booksellers and Café in Boston…

• Have you ever been in a family travel pickle?

  admin

  26 Jan 2012 | 7:45 am

  It was 10 p.m. and the only movement was a state police car creeping along the shoulder past a seemingly interminable line of cars and trucks. The bullhorn stuck out the window was supposed to be telling us what was going on, but the voice that emerged, loud though it was, was also unintelligible and I prayed silently that it wouldn’t wake up the boys who were both fast asleep in the back seat of our car. Until we reached this crowded stretch of highway, our trip been as smooth as glass. As planned we’d picked the boys up right after school and hit the road. I had snacks, dinner,…

• Family fun at Fenway

  admin

  24 Jan 2012 | 1:12 pm

  My father, who died at the end of 2010, was a lifelong Red Sox fan. Summer evenings he’d stand in his chef’s whites at the stove in his restaurant, a bandana tied around his forehead to catch sweat, and an earpiece in one ear. He’d alternately grimace or smile while he sautéed salmon and you could tell from his face that the game was as vivid in his imagination as if he were sitting in one of Fenway’s green wooden seats. Tommy inherited my father’s name, his long legs, and his passion for baseball, and although the Phillies rule the airways at our house, when we…

• 

  transient travels

• nearly 17 million children in America struggle with hunger, you can help

  susan

  6 Feb 2012 | 12:08 pm

  I am thrilled to be part of the committee that will once again make Taste of the Nation Boston happen on April 19th. This incredible event will – as always – raise the critical funds needed to support Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign, which is dedicated to ending childhood hunger by making sure kids get the healthy food they need every day. Since 1988, Taste of the Nation has raised more than $73 million for organizations in the United States, Canada and abroad, including more than $1.4 million in Boston alone.   Right now we’re offering 20% off…

• you speak the truth willy wonka

  susan

  3 Feb 2012 | 8:11 am

  I’m one of those lunatics that grabs her iPhone from her dresser first thing in the morning and whilst still lying in bed, checks her email, Twitter, Facebook, you name it. This little find had me crying with laughter for some reason….   Why yes, Willy Wonka, I do go on many adventures. In fact, this weekend I’m headed to New York for another girls weekend trip. Can’t wait to tell you how it goes. Happy weekend everyone! What are your plans? Isn’t there a football game or something?

• winter and a giveaway winner

  susan

  25 Jan 2012 | 10:03 pm

  It’s that time of year when I wake up and leave my house for work in the dark and by the time I return, it’s even darker. The only bright side is I get to see the sun rise on the train each morning. Winter in New England can be dreary, even when you come across some unexpected spring-like days like we had this week. While I’ve always been one to love having all four seasons, this time around, I’m already ready for Spring. Who knows, maybe if we had more snow I’d appreciate just how pretty a winter in New England can really be. Until then… How’s…

• a day in pompeii at the museum of science

  susan

  23 Jan 2012 | 11:00 pm

  One of my favorite parts of travel is being able to experience the everyday of another place because it’s different. There are cultures and rituals that aren’t my own, that strengthen my perspective. What’s more rare though, is being thrown into a time machine that takes me to a place that’s both far away and from long ago, to see the everyday of a people that make me realize, we’re not all really that different. That was my experience at A Day in Pompeii at the Museum of Science. The exhibit was simply amazing. Bringing you back to 79 AD, the 13,000-square-foot…

• canvas your travel memories: a giveaway

  susan

  18 Jan 2012 | 10:10 pm

  There was a canvas photo of me, my brother and my sister that hung over the couch in the Maine house where we vacationed as kids. We’re smiling, and a little sunburned. Whenever I see a canvas print I think of that photo and I’m back inside that little house – which once defined travel for me in a way – settling in after a long day of swimming or figure skating on the pond. When Easy Canvas Prints contacted me to see if I wanted a new print of my own, I was excited to recreate that same feeling with a new memory. I jumped right to my honeymoon photos and chose one from…

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  Travel Wonders of the World

• Rock Art and Red Soil (Gundabooka, Australia)

  Mark H

  8 Feb 2012 | 3:40 am

  The rocky plateau of Mt Gundabooka rises awkwardly in a protrusion of rust coloured rock and olive green bush a few hundred metres above scrubby arid plains, the mountain visible for vast distances around. Fifty kilometres south of Bourke, it represents an important landmark for the Ngembe Aborigines or Stone People, a meeting place for millennia for various tribes and a source for shelter, food, medicines, tools and water. Cliffs, gorges and ancient waterways mark this ancient remote land estimated at nearly 400 million years of age.Over 40,000 hectares of Gundabooka National Park is broken…

• The Unmissable Sights of London

  Mark H

  6 Feb 2012 | 9:41 pm

  guest post by Central London ApartmentsThere’s a definite feel-good factor in and around London in 2012 as the countdown continues to this summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games, prompting many tourists to head to England’s capital city for a spot of sightseeing and to soak up the culture. For those looking to book short-term accommodation London has something to suit every budget located all around the following must-visit places.London Eye Did you know that the most popular paid-for attraction in the UK is the London Eye? Why? Well, the views from being inside one of the 32 all-glass…

• Photo of the Week: Charcoal Cooler (Cobah, Australia)

  Mark H

  4 Feb 2012 | 3:11 pm

  Continuing the journey in Outback Australia, the photo of the week shows an early evaporative cooler used to counter the harsh heat. This charcoal cooler and others using similar principles were used in the heat of outback Australia as a refrigerator from the late 1800s through to the mid-1900s, when electricity or generators were not around. Water in a tray under the fridge is drawn up through the charcoal by the chimney at the top cooling (and de-odourising) everything inside.Based on the invention of the Coolgardie Safe which relies on wet hessian bags for a cooling effect, various cooler…

• Games Around the World: Pass the Pigs

  Mark H

  1 Feb 2012 | 10:49 pm

  For the last two years on the first of the month, Travel Wonders has featured a drink of the month, iconic to a certain country or region. This year in a similar manner, I am going to feature games around the world identifiable with a certain place or country.I am starting the series with a favourite game that I have owned for over twenty years that has travelled with me on most of my journeys and visited all seven continents. It is called Pass the Pigs and simply requires two rubber pigs.It has provided many hours of simple entertainment in meeting new people in new countries, killing time…

• Three Top Mountain Spas

  Mark H

  30 Jan 2012 | 1:19 pm

  guest post by Spa BreaksSpa hotels of all descriptions are synonymous with relaxation, tranquillity and stunning views. However, mountain spas take all those attributes and amplify them tenfold. Surrounded by an imposing yet beautiful range of snow-capped peaks, you’re able to treat yourself in comfort in a well-heated spa while gazing upon the Alps, Rockies or other alpine haven. Holidaying in a spa hotel takes you away from the stresses of urban living. With that in mind, which mountain spas are the best to visit? Here are three of the very finest. Aqua Dome, AustriaNestled in the Tirol…

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  BEAT OF HAWAII

• Ten Percent Off Hawaiian Airlines

  Jeff

  7 Feb 2012 | 3:46 pm

  There’s another Hawaii travel deal this morning that makes it possible to spend less on a Spring Break Hawaii vacation. Hawaiian Air is fighting back after today’s excellent sale from... Please click link above. Mahalo for subscribing to Beat of Hawaii!

• Bay Area to Kauai or Big Island $139 Each Way

  Jeff

  7 Feb 2012 | 12:44 pm

  Here’s a great Hawaii airfare sale this morning, that includes almost all of Spring Break and then some. I’ll keep watch to see if it expands further or to other airlines. The sale is... Please click link above. Mahalo for subscribing to Beat of Hawaii!

• 12-Day West Coast to Hawaii Cruise $67+/Day

  Jeff

  6 Feb 2012 | 2:08 pm

  The recent cruise ship tragedy in Italy has certainly impacted the industry. With bookings down at the moment, here’s an opportunity to take advantage of a short-term window for a great Hawaii... Please click link above. Mahalo for subscribing to Beat of Hawaii!

• Hawaii Airlines Tap Gourmet Tastes and Money

  Jeff

  2 Feb 2012 | 4:56 pm

  There are new food and beverage options in the skies flying towards Hawaii this week. Some of these are free and others are not. Together with baggage and other ancillary fees, there’s clearly... Please click link above. Mahalo for subscribing to Beat of Hawaii!

• Free VIP Alerts Giveaway | Get Hawaii Travel Deals First

  Jeff

  1 Feb 2012 | 3:33 pm

  If you don’t already know about VIP Alerts, it’s our way of quickly informing you of Hawaii deals from your chosen city. Now, you can win free VIP Alerts for an entire year, so... Please click link above. Mahalo for subscribing to Beat of Hawaii!

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  NileGuide Travel Blog

• Postcard Perfect: St. Basil’s Catherdral, Moscow, Russia

  Rachel Greenberg

  1 Feb 2012 | 4:45 pm

  When Ivan the Terrible wanted to commemorate the siege of Kazan and capture of the surrounding area, he had an incredible church constructed in the very center of Moscow. Unlike any other building built in Russia at the time, the church was colorful, whimsical, and detailed in a way no one had ever seen before. It was named the ‘Cathedral of the Protection of Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat’. Lucky for us the church has survived since 1561 and goes by a much simpler name these days – St. Basil’s. Located on Red Square, the church has been an UNESCO World Heritage site…

• Postcard Perfect: Gyeongbokgung Palace, South Korea

  christinegarvin

  31 Jan 2012 | 5:39 pm

  Gyeongbokgung Palace, the royal residence in South Korea, is located in Seoul and was nearly destroyed in the 20th century by the Japanese government. This ”Palace of Shining Happiness” is slowly being restored, with 40% of the original buildings standing or being reconstructed as of 2009. This photo highlights the changing of the guard, a colorful event filled with beautiful flags and costumes. Though at this point, the guard change may be more for tourists rather than being official, the custom provides a view into the history of the country’s rich history.  

• 10Best.com Re-Launches with All-New Content, Rich Photo Slide Shows & Improved User Experience

  NileGuide Staff

  31 Jan 2012 | 12:34 pm

  DECEMBER 1, 2011 – SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Travel planning site 10Best.com, acquired less than a year ago by NileGuide.com, has completely re-launched its website to provide travelers with an improved, industry-leading, inspirational experience.  Chief among the site’s new features is an abundance of rich travel photo slide shows, populated by thousands of beautiful new images.  With this re-launch, 10Best.com added more than 100,000 new photos and increased photo sizes by 70%.  The result:  A compelling browsing experience that satisfies the yearning in every traveler to dream…

• Recipe: Traditional Tom Kha Gai (Thai Coconut Soup)

  Rachel Greenberg

  30 Jan 2012 | 6:32 pm

  The incredible mix of sweet, tangy, and sour make Tom Kha Gai one seriously addicting soup. Along with the distinctive Thai flavor, tender chicken and creamy broth provide this perfect-for-cold-weather dish a hearty texture. Aside from a few specific items, most of the ingredients can be found at any well stocked grocery store. If you’re lucky enough to have an Asian market in your city, stop by first to pick everything up at once. And although the recipe list looks long, once everything is chopped up the cooking process is super fast and easy – and all in one pot. Enjoy! Image:…

• Postcard Perfect: Chinese New Year, Pier 27, San Francisco

  Rachel Greenberg

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:22 pm

  We fell in love with this image of an artisan preparing herself for the Chinese New Year celebrations in San Francisco. Pier 27 on the Embarcadero is where all the float and parade materiel is storied before the big day, and we can only imagine the excitement and nerves before the hours-long parade hits city streets. San Francisco’s Chinatown is the largest in North America and represents the biggest community of Chinese outside of Asia. Its iconic buildings and vibrant community are prized by the city of San Francisco, and their Chinese New Year parade has everything from…

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  About.com New England Travel

• A Lighthouse Table for Two

  8 Feb 2012 | 3:45 pm

  Want to treat your favorite lighthouse lover to a one-of-a-kind romantic experience? The Newburyport Rear Range Light in Newburyport, Massachusetts, is the only lighthouse in America with a dinner table ...Read Full Post

• Delightfully Delicious New Deals

  7 Feb 2012 | 4:33 pm

  New additions this week to Kim's New England Deal Sheet:Chase winter blues away with an overnight package at Rhode Island's Howard Johnson Inn Newport Area that includes dinner and a show at Newport Blues Cafe;Take your Valentine to Fleming's Prime Steakhouse in Boston, Providence or West Hartford and get a free $25 gift card;...Read Full Post

• 8 Places to Celebrate Mardi Gras in New England

  6 Feb 2012 | 3:45 am

  What do New Orleans and New England have in common? Well... they both start with "New" and have the same number of letters. Oh, and they both have fabulous Mardi ...Read Full Post

• It's Time to Get Your Tanglewood Tickets

  2 Feb 2012 | 8:40 pm

  Tickets are on sale for the 75th anniversary season at Tanglewood, the Boston Symphony Orchestra's summer home in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts. There's no better place in all of ...Read Full Post

• New England Winter Fun That's Free or Cheap

  31 Jan 2012 | 3:12 pm

  New additions this week to Kim's New England Deal Sheet:Spend a Sunday cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or driving between New Hampshire inns and savoring chocolate treats at each during the annual Chocolate Festival;...Read Full Post

• 

  See what's new at Dad's Guide to WDW

• When to go to the Magic Kingdom

  8 Feb 2012 | 4:57 pm

  Lots of great info on your site. But many of the other sites say NOT visit Magic kingdom first? Any ideas? We will be traveling early March this year staying

• World Showcase - take a trip around the World

  8 Feb 2012 | 1:59 pm

  The World Showcase in Epcot gets a little better all the time. Grab some good food and have some fun.

• Free Dining at Disney World Fall 2012

  7 Feb 2012 | 7:59 pm

  Hi Dad! Do you expect free dining to come back for the fall? No Free Dining during ...Photo by Scott R SmithDad's Free Dining is DeadYep, I've said it

• Wilderness Lodge vs. Animal Kingdom Lodge

  6 Feb 2012 | 8:17 pm

  We are trying to decide between staying at the Wilderness Lodge or Animal Kingdom Lodge with our 6 and 4 year olds. The only question/concern with the

• Easter or August for Walt Disney World

  5 Feb 2012 | 1:35 pm

  Hello. I've been a fan for a long time and now I need help. I like to think that I know a lot about Disney, but I'm just not sure what to do this time.

• 

  tripwolf travel blog - your travel guide

• How to Celebrate Carnevale in Italy

  Eva

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:11 am

  Valentine’s Day is almost a distant memory (please let it soon be a distant memory), which can only mean one thing here in Italy: Carnevale is on its way. I might not get “real” Halloween in this boot-shaped country, but by golly, at least I get Carnevale. In the Catholic tradition, Carnevale is the celebration [...]

• Where (and How) to Waltz in Vienna

  Miruna Corneanu

  8 Feb 2012 | 10:49 am

  What would be more romantic than dancing a waltz in Vienna for Valentine’s Day? St Valentine’s Day is waiting just around the corner impatient to revive February’s frozen gloomy days and I am sitting in my kitchen fancying the perfect romantic break.  Digging into my memories, there are not many things that reflect true romance [...]

• Wallace Collection: free art in London

  Megan Eaves

  7 Feb 2012 | 5:20 am

  A lot of the museums in London are free and I love it. I find that one visit usually isn’t enough for me to really take in a museum, plus my feet start to hurt and, after about an hour, my brain has absorbed all it can. So being able to go back multiple times [...]

• Virginia Wineries

  deannanmc

  6 Feb 2012 | 9:30 am

  When most people think of American wines, their thoughts gravitate toward California–specifically Napa and Sonoma. Nothing wrong with that; California turns out an excellent product. On the opposite coast, however, is Virginia. While not as prolific as California, Virginia’s wineries turn out several complex and tasty varieties amid scenic surroundings that are just as lovely [...]

• Five Ways to Improve Your Long-Haul Flight Experience

  Eva

  2 Feb 2012 | 12:51 pm

  You’ve always longed to visit Tahiti, but that coconut-perfumed dream never includes the utter, abject misery of being stuck on a plane for close to an entire day. Don’t let fear of confined spaces, boredom or blood clots keep you from taking that exotic trip; there are things you can do to make your long-haul [...]

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  Destination Guides - Southpoint.com Blog

• Roatan Water Adventures

  25 Jan 2012 | 1:19 am

  I understand now why Roatan is so popular with divers and has some of the...

• Western Caribbean Cruise

  9 Jan 2012 | 1:34 pm

  After one of our writers had such a great time aboard the Carnival Elation cruise to Cozumel (and just returned...

• New Orleans requires tour guides be licensed

  14 Dec 2011 | 12:05 pm

  Shame on you city of New Orleans. New Orleans city officials there are now requiring that every tour guide undergo an...

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  Fascinating Travel Destinations Blog

• Jan 24, Around Kyushu

  23 Jan 2012 | 7:11 pm

  A tour around Kyushu takes you on a fascinating island holiday with a variety of attractions and activities, thermal calderas and onsens, historic cities... and much more you can read about here.

• Jan 24, Sightseeing Around Kuching

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:26 pm

  Sightseeing around Kuching is easy in a relatively compact city, where many of the interesting atractions are clustered together. With museums, historic buildings and fascinating culture, Kuching is a

• Jan 24, Ancient Nara Traditional Japan

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:14 pm

  Ancient Nara is a city of tradtional Japanese heritage buildings,some of the oldest wooden building in the world.Use this guide to Nara sightseeing to plan your tour of this historic city.

• Jan 23, Cambodia Culture

  23 Jan 2012 | 5:58 pm

  Cambodia culture was very visible on the Road to Siem Riep.As we drove we saw every day life in Cambodia - preesented here in a travel story and pictures.

• Jan 23, Africa Overland - An Experience of a Lifetime

  23 Jan 2012 | 5:50 pm

  Stories of overland through Africa. These snippets from my diary are written to share the thrills, spills, and adventure good and bad we experienced travelling from Johannesburg to London.

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  My Several Worlds

• ESL Educators Guide: Teaching & ESL

  Carrie

  22 Jan 2012 | 9:43 am

  Classroom in Central Jakarta, Indonesia Flickr Photo by Shanghai Daddy This month’s ESL Educators Blog Carnival is an open discussion for our participants. I’m opening this page up to my readers as well, so if you’ve got an interesting ESL article that you’d like to share, please get in touch with me via the Contact Page and I will add your URL, a short blurb about your article and an author box to this post. Don’t forget to check out last month’s carnival, which was published on Go Teach Abroad focused on Engaging Women in the ESL Classroom. Tax Guide for Overseas…

• Lunar New Year Celebrations in Kota Kinabalu

  Carrie

  19 Jan 2012 | 4:17 am

  Lunar New Year celebrations are almost upon us here in Taiwan. I’ve commented before on how this holiday is celebrated in Taiwan, so this year I thought I’d comment on celebrations for Lunar New Year in Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia Borneo, which was where we spent the holidays last year. The Lunar New Year is the most important festival in the Chinese Lunar Calendar, luring thousands of friends and families to participate in games and watch Lion and Dragon dances, martial arts demonstrations and other fun events. We witnessed no less than three lion dances in various areas throughout…

• Travel Taiwan: Orchid Island

  Stephanie

  5 Jan 2012 | 10:05 am

  This guest post was written by Stephanie A Long. Apart from a few dolphins that had been keeping pace, the only thing to see since we had passed Green Island was blue meeting blue on the distant horizon. The sunlight’s warmth and the deck chair’s swaying and rocking had made my eyelids heavy. I hadn’t realized that I’d drifted to sleep, though, or that the 4 hour journey could already be nearly over. And so, when a light touch to the shoulder woke me, it seemed to me that the wild, jungle-covered cliffs filling the world off to port had magically burst up out of the…

• The Essential Guide to Celebrating Chinese New Year in Beijing, China

  Carrie

  3 Jan 2012 | 7:04 am

  Combine the wonders of this exotic Asian destination with one of the biggest celebrations on earth and you’ve got yourself a trip of epic proportions. No one does Chinese New Year better than Beijing, China. A celebration filled with color, energy, food, and history, Chinese New Year in Beijing hosts a number of fascinating local events to make your journey truly unique and unforgettable. MSW offers you an essential travel guide to some of the best attractions, activities and restaurants in Beijing during Chinese New Year. Beijing Chinese New Year Winter Attractions Fireworks Each year,…

• Photo Essay: Where I Traveled To In 2011

  Carrie

  30 Dec 2011 | 9:54 pm

  2011 was another great year for travel for a gal like me. After taking on the role of President of Reach To Teach Recruiting earlier this year, I expected that my travel time would go down, but my new position ended up bringing me a lot more travel opportunities than I was anticipating. Here’s a list of the incredible places that I traveled to in 2011. Shanghai, China Revisted! Shanghai is one of those cities that never fails to intrigue me. This is a city that I’ve visited for business and for pleasure in the last 18 months. No matter what I’m doing while in Shanghai,…

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  Lanzarote Information - Anything and everything about Lanzarote

• Bruce Springsteen Concert in Gran Canaria, 15th May 2012

  Jules

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:40 am

  Tickets went on sale this morning for the Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band concert in Gran Canaria. Bruce starts his tour in the States through March and April before performing six concerts within Spain. The first concert is in Seville, followed by Gran Canaria and two dates in Barcelona when he travels to Germany, returning to play in San Sebastian and Madrid later in the tour. This concert in the Canary Islands is a recent addition to the Wrecking Ball Tour, it was only announced once the promoters could ensure the transport of the set to provide the same quality of production as…

• Teguise Campaign Against Abandoned Hotels

  Jules

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:10 am

  Oswaldo Betancort, the Mayor of Teguise is stepping up his campaign to resolve the issues surrounding the abandoned hotel building sites in the resort of Costa Teguise. He commented on a local radio station that it was unacceptable to go to international tourism fairs to sell our primary resort of Costa Teguise, when the first impression that visitors have is these tombs that we all know. There are eight plots of land causing concern, these skeleton hotels have been left in an abandoned state for several years causing an eye sore for the resort. The Mayor is planning to hold a series of new…

• Jobs in Lanzarote, Cafe Aroma

  Jules

  9 Feb 2012 | 1:44 am

  Cafe Aroma are looking for someone currently living in Playa Blanca to join their team. This cafe offers British style sandwiches, homemade cakes and fresh salads to eat in or take away. Situated in the Centro Comercial Papagayo, close to Playa Dorada in the centre of Playa Blanca they need a flexible, reliable and experienced person to work 15 hours a week. Open from 9am to 5pm, the new member will be expected to work a 10 hour shift during the week to manage their busy lunchtimes and prepare the delicious range of sandwiches. Please send your CV by email to cafearoma@gmx.net to apply for…

• St Valentine's Day in Lanzarote 2012

  Jules

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:29 pm

  We know that lots of you love Lanzarote, so where better to celebrate with the one you love on Valentine’s day or as they say locally Día de San Valentín. Here’s our guide as to what’s happening in Lanzarote to celebrate Valentine’s day in 2012. Valentine’s Night at the San José Castle or Jameos del Agua The Centres for Art, Culture and Tourism in Lanzarote have announced two special romantic evenings to celebrate St Valentine’s. Each venue will have live music and a meal where every lady will receive a rose. €35 per person Tickets can be booked through the website or direct…

• Arrecife Carnival 2012

  Jules

  8 Feb 2012 | 9:30 am

  The programme of events has been released for the Arrecife Carnival which starts from this Friday 10th February. The Grand Carnival Parade will be held on Monday 20th February, the floats will depart from the football ground, along the Vía Medular from 6pm onwards. The theme for this year is Vikings if you want an idea for your fancy dress costume although anything goes so dress up and join in the fun. Friday 10th February 20:00 Inauguration of the carnival with Juan Medina Guzmán and Villa Pipol Batucada band in the José Ramirez Cerdá park. Saturday 11th February 12:00 Buenos Aires…

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  Luxury Travel Tips and Vacation Ideas

• Villa Offers for Rentals in Akumal Mexico – Up to 25% Off

  Amy

  9 Feb 2012 | 5:45 am

  These top luxury villas in Akumal Mexico are now available for a special 25% off throughout 2012. With beachfront villas and beautiful pool terraces, these are fantastic vacation homes for any type of holiday - whether it's a family vacation or a romantic getaway in the Yucatan. Akumal is a top luxury vacation destination and it's only better with these special villa rental offers.

• London 2012 Olympic Games Travel Guide

  Amy

  3 Feb 2012 | 3:00 am

  Check out this luxury travel guide for London 2012 Olympics. With the opening ceremony just a few months away, it’s already time to start planning your vacation in London for the 2012 Summer Olympics. This summer, London transforms into a hub of excitement and culture, becoming the veritable center of the world. Simply put, it’s the place to be.

• New York City Travel Guide – Insider Travel Tips

  Amy

  2 Feb 2012 | 5:00 am

  This insider guide New York City aims to compile an in-the-know travel guide for the city that never sleeps. We’ve revamped our list of the best restaurants in New York and added a few hidden gems that are certainly off “the beaten path.” Check out the top picks for this insider guide in New York City.

• Luxury Vacation Offers for Sardinia Luxury Pool Villa

  Amy

  1 Feb 2012 | 6:20 am

  There is a special luxury villa in Sardinia that is now offering special promotions to further enhance your luxury vacation experience. This summer, you can take advantage of special rates for a week stay in the lovely villa rental Ginestra.

• New Caribbean Pool Villa in Turks and Caicos

  Amy

  31 Jan 2012 | 2:30 am

  Rent the new Turks and Caicos villa Blanche at a special discount. The fully-staffed private villa has a pool and private chef at home and it's considered one of hte top Caribbean villas available for rent. Villa Blanche is a fantastic vacation home with five bedrooms, infinity pool and top luxury vacation amenities.

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  Lori Henry

• Dine Out Vancouver at Wild Rice

  Lori Henry

  27 Jan 2012 | 12:58 pm

  It’s that time of the year again when January rolls around and we feel a bit bloated from the holidays and New Years Eve shenanigans. In comes Dine Out Vancouver, an annual festival for food lovers that helps get us out of the cozy house and into restaurants we haven’t tried yet, or favourites that we can’t get enough of. Each participating restaurant in Vancouver (this year there are a record 231) offers a fixed-priced menu of $18, $28 or $38, each course paired with wine. Last night I started off my Dine Out Vancouver experience at Wild Rice, a fusion Chinese restaurant on the edge of…

• Losing my passport in New Zealand

  Lori Henry

  14 Dec 2011 | 9:01 am

  "Solace in the Wind" by English sculptor Max Patte on the Wellington waterfront. Always a hit. The last time I walked by this 2-metre high iron man he was dressed in a toque and knitted underwear. The trip was a success: I had spent the month of November on the North Island of New Zealand attending the SATW convention in Wellington, did a post-trip to hike and mountain bike in Tongariro National Park, and then spent the remaining weeks travelling from Paihia and Auckland in the north, down to Rotorua and then Whakatu, near Napier, doing research for a book. I drove myself to the…

• Introducing Melena Rounis, Cirque du Soleil dancer

  Lori Henry

  17 Nov 2011 | 9:01 am

  Although I’ve been dancing for over 27 years, I’ve never (ever) been all that flexible. I would marvel at the bendy girls in class, stuck at just being able to do the plain ol’ splits. One of the stretchiest of all the girls in class was Melena Rounis. In fact, she ended up joining Cirque du Soleil in the spring of 2008 down in Las Vegas, joining the cast of The Beatles LOVE show at The Mirage Hotel and Casino. Still with the company, she dresses in rainbow leg warmers and starts the show off in the song “Get Back,” does some Locking on top of a VW Beetle during “Drive My Car,”…

• My new ebook about Churchill, Manitoba in northern Canada

  Lori Henry

  24 Oct 2011 | 10:01 am

  Lori Henry about to snorkel with beluga whales in Churchill, Manitoba. Photo by John Zada. She seemed to smile up at me, her almost four metre/13 foot-long body sashaying gracefully beneath my own outstretched limbs. Her small eyes looked at me curiously before she blew bubbles that rushed up and hit me in the mask. I jolted upwards and my head shot out of the water. That beluga whale was playing with me! I treaded water momentarily before plunging my head back into the Churchill River so I could continue snorkelling with the friendly whales. Those who know me know that I have a passion for…

• Thai massage and Songkran in Bangkok and Hua Hin, Thailand

  Lori Henry

  27 Sep 2011 | 10:01 am

  I was invited to Thailand this spring by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to celebrate Songkran (Thai New Year). I was lucky enough to see the Joe Louis Puppet Theatre perform (the country’s “only troupe that still performs the Hun Lakhon Lek Thai traditional small puppet play and remains the sole guardian of this dying art form”) during a New Years event in Bangkok, and had breakfast at the Sukhothai Hotel, three tables away from famous French actor, Jean Reno. While I wasn’t celebrating Songkran on Khaosan Road in Bangkok (see video below), I was hard at work trying out many Thai…

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  Telluride Inside... and Out

• TELLURIDE,A CREATIVE DISTRICT?: TELLURIDE ARTS PUSH

  Kate Jones

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:17 am

  If necessity is the mother of invention then it is no wonder that Telluride, with its breathtakingly beautiful, rugged mountains permeated with precious metals, bright sunshine and light powder, and a boom and bust economy, has been an incubator of creative ideas for more than a century. Then and now, Telluride is defined by an...

• MOUNTAIN VILLAGE GAMES TO BENEFIT TASP

  admin

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:10 am

  The Mountain Village Winter Games return February 11 to benefit the Telluride Adaptive Sports Program; athletes converge on snow-packed soil for some winter adventure on skies, snowshoes and bikes. (Editor’s note: TASP recently completed its 12th annual “Expand Your Horizons” camp. See the video below for a quick view of the four-day event. Photo credits:...

• LLAMA LIVE: EMMITT-NERSHI BAND

  Eliot Muckerman

  8 Feb 2012 | 8:25 am

  It’s has to be one of the greatest things to happen to bluegrass since the mandolin: Drew Emmitt and Bill Nershi teamed up to form the Emmitt-Nershi Band. And here’s more good news: Their quartet plays the Llama on Sunday, February 12. Nershi, a former longtime Telluride local and Emmit are household names among bluegrass...

• TNCC: FOLLOWING UP, FOLLOWING THRU

  Kris Holstrom

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:45 am

  Community Response to Building Common Ground #1 plus Transition Our Way The Telluride-based New Community Coalition and the Wilkinson Public Library were thrilled to have such a fantastic turnout and post-presentation dialogue at last week’s Building Common Ground and Green Business Roundtable gatherings. Thursday evening, January 2, saw the Program Room filled to the gills....

• GREG STUMP: BUMPS, BALLET, CAMERA, ACTION

  Susan Viebrock

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:30 am

  He won his first competition at Sugarloaf in 1970 at age nine. In 1978, he took the Junior National Championships at Copper Mountain, Colorado. His strengths: bumps and ballet. When he won the North American Freestyle Championships at Edelweiss Valley, Ontario, Greg Stump became the first ever international amateur freestyle champion. Stump’s prowess caught the...

• 

  Taking off Travel blog

• Pinterest and Travel Planning

  Sharon Hurley Hall

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:32 am

  I’d promised myself I wasn’t going to get hooked on yet another social media site so when Pinterest first came out, I hung back and waited to see whether it was worth it. At first, I didn’t get the sudden Pinterest mania, but then all of a sudden I was hooked. Anyone who’s ever created a vision board will see the appeal immediately. And anyone who’s thought of creating one but decided it was too difficult doesn’t have that excuse any more. Pinterest is simply a great way to collect the stuff that interests you and I think it could also be a great tool for…

• 10 Fun Facts about Mardi Gras

  Sharon Hurley Hall

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:30 am

  Mardi Gras is coming! A month of festivities comes to a head on February 21st and one of the best places in the world to celebrate it is right here in the US – in New Orleans. Outside of Rio, this is one of the biggest parties anywhere and you won’t want to miss out. Here are some interesting facts about Mardi Gras. The name Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday, a day of feasting before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday. This day is also known as Shrove Tuesday. Depending on where you are, Mardi Gras celebrations can span more than a month, either starting on Twelfth Night or being…

• Great Places to Propose on Valentine’s Day

  Sharon Hurley Hall

  7 Feb 2012 | 7:20 am

  If you haven’t made any Valentine’s Day travel plans yet, then it’s not too late, but you’ll have to move fast if you still want to make it a day to remember. It seems that about 10% of all engagements happen on this day, but where are you going to be when you pop the question? AskMen has a list of the top 10 places to propose. These include where you had your first date, Las Vegas (where you can probably get married at the same time), on top of a mountain and Cambodia (really?). Of those, my favorite is the first date one, but then since many women have first dates in…

• Travel News – 6 February 2012

  Sharon Hurley Hall

  6 Feb 2012 | 5:24 am

  It’s Monday – did you get the result you wanted at last night’s SuperBowl? Whether you’re heading for the parade or looking to put it all behind you, check out our round-up of the latest travel news. Travelers From Memphis Frustrated by High Air Fares A WMCTV report suggests that high air fare prices out of Memphis International Airport are costing the city in more than one way. The report says there are fewer conventions in the city, business travel has been reduced and some 35% of locals are driving to other airports to pick up cheaper flights. There has been a 9%…

• 10 Places American Tourists Should Visit in 2012

  Sharon Hurley Hall

  3 Feb 2012 | 5:04 am

  10 Places American Tourists Should Visit in 2012 by Anna Dewinter Travelers might think of visiting Great Britain for the Olympic Games 2012, or to experience the sights and sounds of London – one of America’s favorite destinations. However, there are other destinations that are sometimes overlooked and that definitely deserve a visit in 2012. A European Tour: Four Special Cities Start with Dublin, Ireland’s fascinating capital city, made famous by writer James Joyce, and take a guided tour to see the Book of Kells and visit the Guinness Storehouse, home to the global brand. Whilst…

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  Costa Rica Vacations Blog

• Corcovado Ranger Stations

  7 Feb 2012 | 2:15 pm

  Five Corcovado ranger stations you need to know about before exploring Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica

• Corcovado National Park

  7 Feb 2012 | 11:12 am

  National Geographic says that the Osa Peninsula containing Corcovado National Park, is the most biologically intense place on the planet. Hype to sell a magazine or reality? We will let you decide!

• Costa Rica Map

  7 Feb 2012 | 8:49 am

  You can see from this Costa Rica map just how tiny Costa Rica is but within its borders are more butterflies than in the African continent and 20% of the world animal and plant species

• Visiting Corcovado Park Costa Rica

  5 Feb 2012 | 2:04 pm

  Thinking about visiting Corcovado Park Costa Rica? Complete info about making a reservation, when to travel, what to bring

• Animals of the Peninsula Osa

  5 Feb 2012 | 9:39 am

  Costa Rica's Peninsula Osa is one of the last remaining wilderness areas in Central America protecting 140 kinds of mammals, nearly 500 bird species and 100+ different kinds of trees every 2 acres.

• 

  The Travel Word

• What is Slow Travel? Here’s What We Think

  editor

  7 Feb 2012 | 3:23 pm

  “Slow down.” This is the simple message of the Slow Movement. In today’s high-speed world of fast food, jet planes and instant communication, we are losing touch with ourselves, with each other, and with the earth, says the Slow Movement. Like ‘slow food’ and ‘slow media,’ ‘slow travel’ is a part of the movement. It’s a reclaiming of what has been lost in today’s hyper pace of life and travel. It’s a state of mind while travelling. It’s a personal approach. Today, to launch a couple of weeks of focus on Slow Travel…

• Irresponsible Tourism and the Forest Fire in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

  editor

  6 Feb 2012 | 10:27 am

  More than 16,000 hectares (nearly 40,000 acres) were destroyed by a fire that forced the closure of Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park between December 29, 2011, and January 4, 2012, and caused permanent environmental damage in one of the most beautiful places in the world. The Torres del Paine (Towers of Paine) are the most famous peaks of the Paine massif in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, a park that covers 181,414 hectares (448,284 acres) of unique landscapes and is a UNESCO-recognised Biosphere Reserve. Photo © Hernán Torres The park is one of the nature tourism meccas…

• Video Spotlight: Playing for Change – Stand by Me

  admin

  5 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  It’s another classic YouTube hit this week on Video Spotlight. The video featured below looks set to break the 40-million-views mark this year. And rightfully so. This clip, produced by the Playing for Change (PFC) movement, combines a number of delightful human characteristics in a way that just makes you feel downright happy. Musical talent, individual artistic interpretation and diverse locations all come together to produce one of the all-time great covers of Ben E. King’s classic ‘Stand by Me’. By making use of a bespoke mobile recording studio, the Playing for…

• Global Basecamps Ilkurot Village Community Projects Promote Education for Maasai Children in Tanzania

  laurel

  3 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  This article was published by our friends at The International Ecotourism Society, who have agreed to its republication here. View the original article on their Your Travel Choice blog. Global Basecamps, in collaboration with Maasai Wanderings, contributes to a variety of ecotourism and community outreach programs in Tanzania. In 2004, Maasai Wanderings visited a Maasai village called Ilkurot (which means “dusty place”) just north of Arusha, and saw that the schools were in desperate need of supplies and repairs, and there was no nursery school. Global basecamps and and Maasai Wanderings…

• Astonishing Antalya, Turkey, Brings the Turkish Riviera to whl.travel

  laurel

  1 Feb 2012 | 2:00 am

  MESAJIN TÜRKÇESİ İÇİN AŞAĞIYA BAKINIZ / SEE BELOW FOR THIS MESSAGE IN TURKISH On Turkey’s pristine south coast, nestled between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, the city of Antalya has long been a favourite holiday destination. Dubbed the new Turkish Riviera, the flanking seaboard offers a rich blend of things to see and do in Antalyaand environs, from exploring Roman ruins to hiking or kayaking deep canyons. Hadrian's Gate in Antalya, Turkey, is widely believed to have symbolised Roman triumph in the region. Photo courtesy of Unlimited Holidays With 630 metres of…

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  YouTube Videos

• TIME TRAVEL?! (NEW SERIES!) - Darkest of Days

  IIJERiiCHOII

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:10 pm

  TIME TRAVEL?! (NEW SERIES!) - Darkest of Days I picked up this game because it got horrible reviews and its turning out to be hilarious! SHOW SOME LOVE! Thanks for watching! ---------------------------------------------- T-Shirts: jericho.spreadshirt.com Facebook www.facebook.com G+: plus.google.com Twitter: www.twitter.com TIME TRAVEL DARKEST OF DAYS TIME TRAVEL DARKEST OF DAYS TIME TRAVEL DARKEST OF DAYS From: IIJERiiCHOII Views: 10677 491 ratings Time: 09:54 More in Gaming

• stabbing victim found at Travel Inn

  wane

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:15 am

  stabbing victim found at Travel Inn Stabbing victim found at Travel Inn From: wane Views: 1 0 ratings Time: 00:17 More in News & Politics

• Never Shout Never - Time Travel (Official Video)

  NeverShoutNever

  21 Sep 2011 | 12:55 pm

  Never Shout Never - Time Travel (Official Video) www.nevershoutnever.com http www.twitter.com © 2011 WMG Never Shout Never's Official video for 'Time Travel' Be sure to comment, subscribe and like. Pick up the new album on iTunes: glnk.it Lyrics: Nothing is real I know this cause I made a deal With the devil He told me that I was just wasting my time on the moon So I flew to the sun Lost track of my soul on the run Suffering 12 degree burns I learned that the sun was no fun So I went back to earth Tripped and fell in the glorified dirt Honestly, gravity sees me as a liability…

• MOVE - STA Travel Australia

  STATravelAU

  4 Aug 2011 | 7:52 am

  MOVE - STA Travel Australia STA Travel Australia sent 3 of our mates, Rick Mereki, Andrew Lees and Tim White on an amazing trip around the world. A 6 week journey of a lifetime crammed into one epic minute. www.statravel.com.au www.statravel.com.au http www.twitter.com Original music by Kelsey James. itunes.apple.com From: STATravelAU Views: 1023083 10069 ratings Time: 01:00 More in Travel & Events

• EAT - STA Travel Australia

  STATravelAU

  4 Aug 2011 | 7:26 am

  EAT - STA Travel Australia STA Travel Australia sent 3 of our mates, Rick Mereki, Andrew Lees and Tim White on an amazing trip around the world. A 6 week journey of a lifetime crammed into one epic minute. www.statravel.com.au http www.facebook.com www.twitter.com Original music by Kelsey James. itunes.apple.com From: STATravelAU Views: 290840 2465 ratings Time: 01:04 More in Travel & Events

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  Gourmet Traveller 88

• My recent whereabouts & Carrot Coriander Soup Recipe

  admin

  4 Feb 2012 | 5:22 pm

  Feeling pretty bad that I cannot post regularly lately, one of the reasons is that I have finally decided to take some German lessons. I have always had phobia to learn German due to previous ...

• Dinner @Enoteca, Eden Amsterdam Manor Hotel

  admin

  30 Dec 2011 | 6:12 pm

    Vitello Tonnato @Enoteca Lobby @Eden Amsterdam Manor Hotel Happy New Year to you all!!! It’s been quite some time since I blogged about iEat-Out mainly because having a small kid, you really have to sacrifice a lot ...

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  About.com Adventure Travel

• First Winter Teva Mountain Games This Weekend

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:48 am

  Vail's first Winter Teva Mountain Games start this weekend.  Even if you're not an extreme athlete, there's an event for you - the Seven Wonders of Vail.  This Colorado Mountain town is an adventurer's paradise, summer or winter....Read Full Post

• Seeking a Company That Offers Luxury Safaris?

  6 Feb 2012 | 2:19 pm

  Which boutique, family-owned company puts together luxury African safaris and lodges its guests in many of the properties on Travel + Leisure's "World's Best" list of the top 20 properties in the world? With this company, guests travel in style, and move from location to another in chartered bush planes....Read Full Post

• Pad Your Body to Protect Yourself From Crashes

  2 Feb 2012 | 1:18 pm

  Wish I had been wearing CrashPads shorts under my pants when I slid into a pile of rocks and did a number on my leg while mountain biking in Scotland.  This protective sports apparel comes in garments designed to help protect bodies playing specific sports, from skiing and snowboarding to mountain biking, soccer and horseback riding.  You can buy off-the-rack choices or have custom garments made at CrashPads....Read Full Post

• Top 10 Types of Adventure Check-Up

  30 Jan 2012 | 2:56 pm

  Here's the latest "Top 10 Types of Adventures" list. Let me know if you think other types of adventure travel experiences should be added to the list. Photo: (c) Lois Friedland

• Are You an Adventure Philanthropist?

  28 Jan 2012 | 12:48 pm

  So what's an adventure philanthropist?   Roadmonky says it's a traveler who likes to combine adventures with a chance to give back to local communities you're visiting.  On a Roadmonkey trip you'll see how much fun it is to combine adventure and volunteering....Read Full Post

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  About.com Africa Travel

• Like Downton Abbey? You'll Love These Books About Keen-ya...

  8 Feb 2012 | 5:09 am

  I have spent the past three months immersed in the colonial lives of the first white settlers in Kenya (or "Keenya" as they liked to call it). It started off with a re-read of Beryl Markham's excellent West with the Night, and I just got carried away with the genre. If you loved watching "Out of Africa" or "White Mischief" and have become enchanted with the Edwardian drama Downton Abbey, you may enjoy reading the list of books below. They are ranked in order of my personal preference. Beryl Markham -- West with the Night (beautifully written autobiography) Elspeth Huxley -- The Flame Trees of…

• Planning a Safari Online

  6 Feb 2012 | 3:13 am

  Many of us plan and book our trips online, so why should a safari be any different? The main problem with booking a safari yourself, is that there are so many variables to take into consideration. I usually end up recommending that people plan their safari about a year in advance and use a travel operator that specializes in Africa. Because unless you really know your African geography, weather patterns, animal behaviors and airline options, you can go horribly wrong. But what's my advice when a safari specialist creates their own online safari planner? I was just dabbling with one designed…

• Quarter Finals of the Africa Cup of Nations

  3 Feb 2012 | 12:40 pm

  The 2012 Africa Cup of Nations has been a fantastic tournament so far, African soccer at its most compelling, muddy and entertaining. The biggest surprise of the first round has to be co-host nation Equatorial Guinea's spectacular start. Who said lightning doesn't strike twice? The Nzalang Nacional (National Lightning) beat a shocked Libyan side 1-0 and, then went on to crush Senegal 2-1. You can credit a home crowd advantage, and even the million dollar payout by the President's son. But whatever the reason, the lowest ranking team in the tournament outplayed their opponents to make it…

• Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt?

  2 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am

  Protestors are getting tear gassed in Cairo tonight. They are angry about the terrible loss of life during a soccer match in Port Said that killed 74 people. Protestors have in fact been quite active in Cairo since January 26. So, I've had a few people ask me "is it safe to travel to Egypt right now"? I was asked the same question a year ago, because the streets of Egypt were ablaze, and the US Department of State had not yet issued an official "Travel Warning". That's what happens when there's politics involved. However, being cautious before saying "don't go" is smart since many Egyptians…

• Valentine's Day - A Blooming Business for Africa

  31 Jan 2012 | 3:14 am

  Valentine's day is not widely celebrated in Africa, except by the more affluent urban folks. But Africa is very much involved in our Valentine's day celebrations. More than 70% of all cocoa beans are grown on African soil, so your Valentine chocolates are likely to have originated in Africa. And around 800 million flowers will be making their way from Kenya's Lake Naivasha region to markets throughout Europe for the Valentine's day rush. Flowers are Kenya's biggest export earner, and growers employ more than 70,000 people. (In the US, the 200 million roses shipped for February 14th, come…

• 

  About.com Amsterdam Travel

• All About Dutch Tourist Visas

  7 Feb 2012 | 3:00 am

  A United Arab Emirates national recently wrote in to ask me how s/he could obtain a Dutch tourist visa - a question that's on the minds of potential visitors from dozens of countries worldwide.  Here's the lowdown on which nationalities need a tourist visa to enter the Netherlands, and how to obtain one.

• Practical Tips: What Souvenirs Am I Allowed to Take Home?

  6 Feb 2012 | 3:00 am

  Visitors to Amsterdam usually want to take home a piece of the city, either to relive their memories later on or to share a taste of the city with friends and loved ones back home. But not all souvenirs are equally smiled upon by each country's customs officials. For American readers, here is a list of which Dutch products can and can't be imported into the U.S. - from cheese (pasteurized is fine) to tulips (subject to conditions).

• February in Amsterdam

  1 Feb 2012 | 3:00 am

  Dress warm and have your umbrella at the ready in February, Amsterdam's coldest month of the year - but don't let the winter chill deter you from all the fantastic events that happen both in Amsterdam and in day-trip-friendly cities, like the De Koninck Blues Festival in Delft (February 10-11) and the Ice Sculpture Festival in Roermond, near the southeastern city of Maastricht (now until February 27).And don't miss the opportunity to treat your Valentine to chocolates from some of Amsterdam's best chocolatiers! Read more about February in Amsterdam....Read Full Post

• Focus On: The Plantage

  29 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  Just a 30-minute walk from Central Station - or a 15-minute ride on tram 9 - is a leafy district whose name translates to "Plantation", and which started off in the 17th century as a residential zone where no one wanted to live. But that didn't mean that no one wanted to spend time there; rather, it became a fashionable entertainment district that reached its peak before the Second World War. Nowadays, the district is associated with nature, history and culture, not to mention plenty of family-focused fun. Read more about the Plantage neighborhood in Amsterdam.

• Focus On: The Eastern Docklands

  28 Jan 2012 | 3:00 am

  Just east of Amsterdam Central Station, the Eastern Docklands spread out over several interconnected islands of various shapes and sizes, each of which have their own special attractions. Family-oriented museums, spectacular city views, iconic architecture and more await visitors who make their way to this northeastern nook of the city. Read more about Amsterdam's Eastern Docklands.

• 

  Redefine Anywhere

• Choose your own romantic adventure

  CNN.com - Travel

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:53 pm

  Remind yourself why you and your mate chose each other with a new adventure around your shared interests.

• China skirting African corruption in direct aid

  Travel News

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am

  China last month sent a senior official to symbolically hand over the keys to a nine-story twin tower to house Uganda's president and prime minister, a gift from Beijing.

• Grand Canyon’s Historic Red Horse Cabin Reopens for Overnight Guests

  Travel News

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:16 am

  Xanterra South Rim L.L.C., operator of lodges, restaurants and activities in Grand Canyon National Park, has completed restoration and rehabilitation of the "Red Horse Cabin," the oldest building at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

• Falardeau returns to theatre where he worked as usher as an Oscar nominee

  Travel News

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:06 am

  Phillippe Falardeau was dreaming of a political career rather than a career as an Academy Award-nominated director when he worked as an usher at the National Arts Centre.

• Iraq seeks to clamp down on security contractors

  Travel News

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:57 pm

  Iraq's Deputy Interior Minister Adnan al-Asadi speaks to Reuters during an interview in Baghdad February 8, 2012.

• 

  orlandoescape.com

• Destination birthday parties for kids in Orlando

  Robyn

  6 Feb 2012 | 4:00 am

  Dave and Busters on International Drive is one of many venues in Orlando where kids can celebrate their birthdays. Dave and Busters on International Drive is one of many venues in Orlando where kids can celebrate their birthdays. For your child’s next birthday, you can reinvent the wheel with a typical pizza and cake at the indoor bounce house party, or you can create a memory to last a lifetime at one of Orlando’s many hotels, resorts and entertainment venues. The choices are endless and can accommodate a wide variety of group sizes—and parent budgets. A day at the theme park is a…

• Airlines at Orlando International Airport

  Robyn

  30 Jan 2012 | 4:00 am

  Orlando International Airport hosts a wide variety of domestic and international carriers. Orlando International Airport (OIA) is one of the most tourist-friendly airports in the country, with a Hyatt hotel inside the airport, gift shops representing all of the major theme parks, and enough domestic and international airlines to attract visitors from around the world. OIA has two terminals—A and B—and is a major hub for Southwest Airlines in Terminal A. Most international flights arrive and depart through Terminal B, although some airlines based out of Canada or Mexico can be found in…

• Orlando Vacation Bucket List

  Robyn

  23 Jan 2012 | 4:00 am

  It's the ultimate Disney cuisine--the smoked turkey leg, which is available at all Disney parks and water parks. Whether it’s your first trip to Orlando or your fifth, there are certain things that should be on your bucket list for a visit to Orlando. No matter how many trips it takes to complete this list, here are some of the top things to add to your Orlando vacation bucket list: 1. Take a photograph in front of the iconic Cinderella castle at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. 2. Dine on an oversized smoked turkey leg at any of the Disney World theme parks. You might want…

• Best Orlando Theme Park Rides for Older Kids

  Robyn

  16 Jan 2012 | 4:00 am

  A ski resort set in sunny Florida--the Summit Plummet at the top of Blizzard Beach's Mount Gushmore is a popular attraction for older kids and teens. Once kids have reached or exceeded the height limit for all of the major theme park roller coasters, rides with abundant stroller parking don’t seem to cut it anymore. For families with older kids and teens, here are the best  theme parks and rides to “graduate” to on your next Orlando vacation. While Disney World is best known for mild rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and It’s a Small World at Magic Kingdom, the…

• Best Orlando Area Theme Parks for Young Children

  Robyn

  9 Jan 2012 | 4:00 am

  Children of all ages are delighted by Magic Kingdom's evening parades. If you think your toddlers and preschoolers are too young for the Orlando area theme parks, think again. Children of all ages will find plenty of attractions that will delight them, and with free admission for children under three at most parks, there is no added expense to bring your wee ones along. That being, some Orlando area theme parks are more entertaining for the stroller crowd than others. Theme parks cater to young families, so all of the basics for feeding, diaper changing and stroller parking will be…

• 

  USA Travel Guide

• Top 10 Spring Break Destinations for 2012

  Kelly

  7 Feb 2012 | 2:24 pm

  Spring Break is fast approaching and we have the ideal locations for some time honored debauchery. Related posts:Spring Break 2009 Beach Destinations – North Carolina Spring Break Destinations – Skiing in Salt Lake City Top 10 Spring Break Destinations for Families

• White River State Park in Downtown Indianapolis

  Tammi

  31 Jan 2012 | 10:15 am

  A refreshing combination of nature, culture, music and more, White River State Park is a naturist’s retreat smack in the middle of downtown Indy. Visitors can explore 250 acres of lush greenery, trails and waterways as well as lively festivals, music and exhibits. No matter the season, WRSP (yeah, we’re on an acronym basis) [...] Related posts:Top American Zoos – Indianapolis Zoo in Indianapolis, IN Things to Do in Orange County – Crystal Cove State Park America’s Parks – Mount Diablo State Park in California

• 2012 Chocolate Lovers Festival in Fairfax, Virginia

  Tammi

  25 Jan 2012 | 9:07 am

  I realize loyal readers might feel completely inundated with wine, chocolate and Valentine’s Day related blogs but, ‘tis the season, right? I’ll hit you with just one more and then I promise to leave it alone till next year. March 3-4 Fairfax, Virginia is hosting the 2012 Chocolate Lover’s Festival featuring events like the Taste [...] Related posts:Civil War 150th Anniversary – Fairfax, Virginia Oregon Truffle Festival – January 27-29, 2012 Old Town Food & Wine Festival in Alexandria, Virginia

• Top 10 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Dallas, TX

  Kelly

  24 Jan 2012 | 8:58 am

  Valentine's Day doesn't always have to be sweet sentiments on construction paper hearts and chalky conversation hearts. Check out how Dallas is celebrating. Related posts:New & Improved – Dallas Zoo in Dallas, Texas Dallas ScareGrounds – Dallas Haunted Houses Celebrate News Year’s Eve in Anchorage, Alaska

• San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

  Tammi

  23 Jan 2012 | 12:04 pm

  Barbeques, rodeos, ten-gallon hats and farmer’s tans! Yes ladies and gentleman, it’s almost time for the 62nd annual San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo! If you’re planning on being in town February 9-26, this celebration of rural pride is certainly not to be missed. Related posts:Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo 2010 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo (and Bar-B-Que Contest) Spring Break Family Vacations – San Antonio, TX

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  News and Views from Cheapflights.com

• Where’s the snow? Ski destinations with powder

  Cheapflights Media

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:20 am

  After an early season dearth of it, ski resorts are finally getting snow. With the white stuff from heaven comes skiers’ salvation. Here’s a mid-week snapshot of what’s happening in three of the country’s most popular resorts: Aspen/Snowmass As of Wednesday, Feb. 8 Snowmass reported a 51-inch base top, Aspen Mountain 29 inches, Aspen Highlands 52 inches, and Buttermilk 34 inches. There’s more do at Aspen than downhill skiing. Strap on a pair of far less sexy snowshoes and make your way through a magical fir forest, then down along a meandering creek. Learn about the wonders Mother…

• Kid’s stuff: Four fabulous children’s museums

  Cheapflights Media

  9 Feb 2012 | 11:04 am

  Let the kids roam ... at awesome museums You’ve just flown a thousand mile to see family, kids in tow, TSA behind you. You’re in search of some way – any way – of diffusing all that pent-up energy they have. If you’re headed for Dallas, Raleigh, Birmingham, or Greenville, SC we have the magic potion: a trip to a really good children’s museum. Ever wonder why the sky’s blue? The Dallas Children’s Museum has the answers. The museum focuses a child’s natural curiosity, waters their imagination. They can build cities, cook a four-course meal, and be a cowboy – all in a single…

• New Orleans walking tours: Vampires and voodoo

  Cheapflights Media

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:56 am

  Haunted tours .. in a haunted story Yearn to walk on the wild side, along the path less traveled? Strap on your Nikes and take a stroll through the shadowy streets of the Big Easy – but be sure to bring along some friends. There’s power in numbers, the kind of numbers a knowledgably led walking tour can muster. Haunted History Tours knows the path, both popular and hidden. Pack your most potent lucky charm and venture to the heart of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, New Orleans’ oldest city of the dead. See the tomb of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Revel on the musty mystery of the place. Wrap…

• Seattle’s Museum of Flight flies high

  Martin Clinton

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:25 am

  Planes of all types ... hanging from the ceiling Planes, planes, planes. If you’re an aircraft aficionado, aviation enthusiast, or just enjoy looking up at jets racing across the sky, nothing compares to seeing them up close in the context of their history. The Museum of Flight in Seattle does just that. More than just a collection of historic aircraft, the museum is dedicated to explaining all aspects of human-powered flight, from the Wright Brothers, to the original barn where Boeing got its start, to the space program. There are even easy-to-understand explanations of the scientific…

• Waiting to Board with Brendon Lang

  Cheapflights Media

  9 Feb 2012 | 8:20 am

  Brendon Lang is a China travel addict who has been living and traveling in China for more than eight years. He’s recently started blogging about travel in China at China Travel Go to help and encourage others to visit and experience an incredible country. Cheapflights: What first intrigued you about China? Brendon Lang: The language, history and extreme contrast between China and Australia intrigued me most in the beginning. Both written and spoken Chinese are fascinating and Chinese writing was like an indecipherable puzzle just waiting to be solved. I am a history buff so China’s rich…

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  Geotraveler's Niche

• The newest travel magazine in town – WildJunket

  Lola

  30 Jan 2012 | 6:35 am

  I love when dreams come true. I also love visionaries who actively pursue their dreams and paths without being swayed by (in my opinion) unnecessary peripheral noise or static. That’s how amazing success stories are born. For fellow travel writer, blogger, and friend, Nellie Huang, it was starting up her own magazine, and what an impressive start it’s been. We all waited with bated breath to see just how the new magazine would look and feel when Nellie announced last year that it was indeed in the works, and I couldn’t be more excited for her. Professionally laid out,…

• Postcard: Winter in Stockholm’s Archipelago

  Lola

  24 Jan 2012 | 1:19 pm

  Now it truly feels like winter here…

• Postcard: Sinning before Lent with semlor

  Lola

  16 Jan 2012 | 3:49 am

  Technically, I’m not supposed to be eating this crazy looking pastry (semlor) before the end of the month/early February, but the beau and I dug in anyways.

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  Isabelle's Travel Guide Blog

• Favorite Blogger of the week

  31 Jan 2012 | 4:44 am

  Every week I'll have a Favorite Blogger on my website with his or her own travel story.

• Angkor temples in Cambodia

  26 Jan 2012 | 6:17 am

  Part 2: I traveled to Southeast Asia mainly to visit the Angkor temples in Cambodia. They had been haunting my dreams for the better part of 2011...

• Visiting Angkor Wat and more

  24 Jan 2012 | 4:34 am

  I traveled to Southeast Asia mainly for the reason of visiting Angkor Wat and the other temples. While Angkor Wat is beyond impressive, there are approximately one thousand temples at Angkor.

• Interview with a Hotel Concierge

  9 Jan 2012 | 6:20 am

  I always wondered what weird requests hotel concierges get. So when I got the opportunity to interview a hotel concierge, I took it. Read on if you want to know too.

• Featured Destination Jordan

  15 Dec 2011 | 1:21 am

  Jordan has so much to offer and to give travelers a chance to learn more about it, I`m putting the destination Jordan in the spotlight.

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  Ciao Bambino Blog

• It’s True, A Kid-Friendly Boutique Hotel in Marrakech

  Amie from Ciao Bambino

  9 Feb 2012 | 10:02 am

  Marrakech is a well-known haven for incredible luxury boutique hotels.  I was determined to find a kid-friendly version of one while planning our family trip to Morocco in October. Boutique Souk, a popular upscale concierge and trip planning service, introduced us to the Beldi Country Club. We are grateful for this recommendation —the Beldi is a gem for families who want an intimate hotel experience with a strong sense of place. Although the Beldi has just 27 rooms, the property is set on acres of spectacular gardens. To say there is room for kids to roam is an understatement as the Beldi…

• Disney World Plans? Why Families Are Choosing Disney Vacation Club Rentals

  Glen from SellMyTimeShareNow.com

  9 Feb 2012 | 3:49 am

  This is a sponsored post SellMyTimeShareNow.com. Every parent knows that once their children reach a certain age the demands for a trip to Disney World soon follow.  Do not attempt to ignore these requests.  Your children have been sold on this trip from a very early age with every Disney film they watch and every magical commercial they have seen, and their pleas will only increase in volume and frequency until you inevitably cave in. So save yourself and your spouse from the days, weeks and years of begging and pleading by making your next family trip to Disney. Photo courtesy of…

• Navigating Skiing in Zermatt with Kids

  Amie from Ciao Bambino

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:21 am

  The Matterhorn is ever-present in good weather. One never tires of this view! If you’re dreaming of an incredible Swiss ski experience, Zermatt, home of the Matterhorn, delivers. Insane mountain scenery paired with an old-style European village transport visitors to a winter paradise. Winter and summer months alike, I always urge friends and family enjoying Swiss vacations to experience Zermatt, at least for a night or two. Located just a few hours via car or train from both Geneva and Zurich, Zermatt is surprisingly easy to access given the remote location. As always, knowing tips and…

• Family Dream Vacation in Key West

  Dana Rebmann

  6 Feb 2012 | 2:03 am

  This post is sponsored by HomeAway, offering the largest selection of worldwide vacation home rentals online. As my kids get older, our vacations are changing. Though my tween and teen are always up for a good adventure, time to relax and just hang out as a family is inching higher up on the wish list. The trick then becomes getting just the right balance. Too much down time can quickly turn into boredom. Photo courtesy of WayneConcepts on Flickr Growing Bigger & Wiser As a family of four, we’re by no means a big family, but now that my girls are close to full grown size, being packed…

• A Perfect Castle to Visit with Kids in France

  Amie from Ciao Bambino

  3 Feb 2012 | 10:35 am

  Elizabeth Thorpe of Poshbrood shared her exciting plans to go to Dordogne over Spring Break with me last night; our conversation reminded me how much I adore this region of France. It’s not widely known as a tourist destination — surprising, as the Dordogne is brimming with wonderful attractions and scenic villages to explore. Our last visit was with three boys under 11. In addition to our fantastic farmhouse dinners and zip-line adventure, we all adored the village and castle of Beynac above the Dordogne River. This stunning attraction is an excellent subject for this week’s…

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  Texas Parks, Travel & Recreation

• 02-09 | 176th Anniversary of Texas Declaration of Independence Celebra

  tpwdnews

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:16 pm

  ---Quote (Originally by Texas Parks & Wildlife Department)--- WASHINGTON, Texas - Historical re-enactors portraying Texas heroes Col. William B. Travis, Gen. Sam Houston and Davy Crockett will help lend an authentic air to the Texas Independence Day celebration March 3-4 at... - WildTexas.com

• Frio River

  oldude51

  8 Feb 2012 | 1:03 pm

  I know its early in the season and with the drought last summer there wasn't too much action there.....but in my opinion any day on the frio is a good day......river flowing or not.......lol..... but has anyone been around that area lately....whats the level like......any news....the sites i keep... - WildTexas.com

• 02-08 | Texas State Parks Want You to Take A Hike

  tpwdnews

  8 Feb 2012 | 10:00 am

  ---Quote (Originally by Texas Parks & Wildlife Department)--- AUSTIN - Periodic mild winter days present a great opportunity to lace up your hiking boots or simply slip on your sneakers and hit a variety of trails snaking through dozens of Texas State Parks. ---End Quote--- *Read the complete... - WildTexas.com

• 02-08 | Migratory Bird Report No. 24

  tpwdnews

  8 Feb 2012 | 8:04 am

  ---Quote (Originally by Texas Parks & Wildlife Department)--- Weekly migratory bird hunting reports are posted from early September through early February. ---End Quote--- *Read the complete article (http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/newsmedia/releases/?req=20120208a)* :: TPWD news release... - WildTexas.com

• Big Bend National Park - Mountain Lion Attack

  Shannon

  7 Feb 2012 | 11:53 am

  Source: Big Bend National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (http://www.nps.gov/bibe/index.htm) Updated: February 6, 2012 Closures in High Chisos due to a recent mountain lion attack: - Window Trail is closed - Pinnacles, Boulder Meadow, and Juniper Flat campsites are closed These... - WildTexas.com

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  Family travel, entertainment, mom blog | Theme Park Mom (Leigh Caldwell)

• Win a $50 Walmart gift card and help a friend!

  ThemeParkMom

  28 Jan 2012 | 9:09 am

  My blogging friend Lolo of Crazy About My Baybah has been working hard the past few weeks to become a Mamavation Mom. If you’re not familiar with Mamavation, it’s an online support community to help moms get fit and healthy. Here’s Lolo talking about why she wants to be a Mamavation Mom: Becoming a Mamavation Mom is so important to Lolo, and she has made it to the finals in the selection process. Now she needs our help! Please go to Mamavation and vote for @MyBaybah to be the next Mamavation mom. It only takes a second! To thank you for your tweets, facebook posts, votes,…

• #HotFlash giveaway: Win $200 from Global Resort Homes today

  ThemeParkMom

  26 Jan 2012 | 11:00 am

  Global Resort Homes provides vacation rentals at several resort communities around Orlando. And let me tell you, these are the NICE resort communities – the premier ones in the area. Global Resort Homes has rentals close to all the attractions, as well as to the Orange County Convention Center. I have long been a proponent of vacation rentals – they are often around the same price as a hotel, and they offer full kitchens, plenty of room to spread out, and the kids won’t be kept awake having to sleep in the same hotel room with a snoring Dad. (And you can crawl in with the…

• Stan Lee to appear in Universal’s ‘new’ Spider-Man ride

  ThemeParkMom

  25 Jan 2012 | 11:30 am

  One of the new attractions at Universal Orlando Resort this year is actually an update to one of the most popular rides there – The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. Universal has re-animated the ride in 4K High-Definition, and you’ll wear new high-tech 3D glasses to ride. There are also technological upgrades to the audio and lighting systems. And there was a big surprise in Universal’s media announcement today: Stan Lee! The co-creator of Spider-Man will appear in a cameo on the ride. But Universal execs wouldn’t give any details about how or where Lee would appear.

• Disney Cruise Line adds homeport in Miami, European itineraries

  ThemeParkMom

  24 Jan 2012 | 10:57 am

  Disney Cruise Line has introduced some new, exciting itineraries for 2013. For the first time ever, there will be sailings from Miami, and the European cruise offerings have been greatly expanded. I am already counting my pennies and trying to decide which one to save up for. You can start booking these cruises on Jan. 26. Here’s the news release from Disney Cruise Line: In 2013, Disney Cruise Line will offer new itineraries, including an expanded portfolio of European cruises with new destinations such as Venice, Italy, and the Greek Isles. In addition, Disney Cruise Line will utilize…

• Quick giveaway: $100 AMEX gift card! #hotflash

  ThemeParkMom

  20 Jan 2012 | 4:00 pm

  I’ve teamed up with some other bloggers tonight to have another Hot Flash Giveaway! One lucky reader will win a $100 gift card from American Express or Amazon, or $100 to their Paypal account! The flash giveaway starts NOW and runs through midnight EST – tonight only! Entering is easy-peasy through the form below. The winner will be selected within 24-48 hours of the end of the giveaway. They will be notified by e-mail and on this post – so check back here to see if you’ve won! a Rafflecopter giveaway You need javascript enabled to see this giveaway.Thanks to…

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  BootsnAll Travel Articles

• Indie Traveler Interview: Tony Wheeler

  khammel

  9 Feb 2012 | 2:03 am

  On Monday, BootsnAll announced a project that we, together with travel writer and vagabonding expert Rolf Potts, have been working on. The Indie Travel Manifesto is a community-curated statement about a particular style of travel - the kind that emphasizes slowing down, interacting with and learning about the local culture, and seeing the world around you in shades of gray, not black and white, right or wrong.  As part of the Manifesto creation, we asked some of our favorite indie travelers to give us their thoughts on travel and how indie travel helps them better understand themselves and…

• Indie Traveler Interview: Rick Steves

  khammel

  8 Feb 2012 | 2:03 am

  On Monday, BootsnAll announced a project that we, together with travel writer and vagabonding expert Rolf Potts, have been working on. The Indie Travel Manifesto is a community-curated statement about a particular style of travel - the kind that emphasizes slowing down, interacting with and learning about the local culture, and seeing the world around you in shades of gray, not black and white, right or wrong.  As part of the Manifesto creation, we asked some of our favorite indie travelers to give us their thoughts on travel and how indie travel helps them better understand themselves and…

• Indie Traveler Interview: Pico Iyer

  khammel

  7 Feb 2012 | 2:03 am

  On Monday, BootsnAll announced a project that we, together with travel writer and vagabonding expert Rolf Potts,  have been working on. The Indie Travel Manifesto is a community-curated statement about a particular style of travel - the kind that emphasizes slowing down, interacting with and learning about the local culture, and seeing the world around you in shades of gray, not black and white, right or wrong.  As part of the Manifesto creation, we asked some of our favorite indie travelers to give us their thoughts on travel and how indie travel helps them better understand themselves and…

• the Indie Travel Manifesto

  admin

  6 Feb 2012 | 2:03 am

  Over the last few weeks, we’ve been talking a lot about the idea of "indie travel." Today we're announcing our Indie Travel Manifesto. Indie Travel Manifesto Narrated by: Rolf Potts; Music by: Mokhov - Halcyon Days; Photos by: Evan Cohan, Olivia Raymer, Adam Seper, and Jessica Spiegel Read. Read it on the homepage in statements or via the download page and the pretty PDF. Vote. Give your favorite few statements votes up or ones that you don’t like thumbs down. Discuss. Love or hate a particular statement? Add your thoughts to the page on that value. Sign. If this statement makes you…

• How to Deal With Street Harassment in Foreign Countries

  admin

  3 Feb 2012 | 2:03 am

  It’s unfortunate that women should expect street harassment in many of the places they travel, but it is often the reality. That’s not to say that such harassment does not take place at home—it certainly does, and sometimes more frequently. But at least in one’s own culture the rules concerning how to respond are more familiar. A victim usually knows whether it is acceptable to verbally confront a harasser, and what authorities can be sought for assistance. This is usually not the case in a foreign country. Traveling in a new environment where the social decorum is unfamiliar will…

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  Luxury Travel Nightlife & Restaurant Reviews

• Exclusive Interview with the Creator of Cirque du Soleil, Deborah Colker

  journeypod

  2 Feb 2012 | 2:21 pm

  journeyPod.com sat down last week with Deborah Colker, Creator of Cirque du Soleil’s “Ovo.” She is the first woman in Cirque du Soleil’s 25-year history to craft an entire production from the ground up, from creation and direction to choreography. Read on…

• Chef’s Corner with Chef Jason Bowlin of Catch at Casa Del Mar

  journeypod

  31 Jan 2012 | 12:22 pm

  Catch at Casa Del Mar offers a menu from Executive Chef Jason Bowlin that is a stone’s throw away from reeling it in yourself.  Read on…

• Chattanooga: Top Destination for any Season

  journeypod

  18 Jan 2012 | 4:28 pm

  If you’re looking for the perfect Southern getaway, Chattanooga proves to be beautiful and inviting during every season. Read on…

• Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show

  journeypod

  18 Jan 2012 | 11:06 am

  journeyPod.com was front and center at the 7th Annual Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show January 14-15,  2012.  Read on…

• Season’s Top Destinations for 2012

  journeypod

  8 Dec 2011 | 4:06 pm

  With winter fast approaching, it’s time to leave the cold behind and celebrate the start of 2012 with a splurge at a luxe resort. Read on…

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  WordPress.com News

• New Themes: Splendio and Suburbia

  Michelle Langston

  7 Feb 2012 | 12:00 pm

  Happy Tuesday! We’ve got two unique free themes for you today, and they are quite a study in contrasts. Our first theme, Splendio, dazzles with an unconventional yet stylish design from Design Disease that pops out of the box — literally. How you use this theme is limited only by your imagination! It comes loaded with features: six widget areas (one in the right sidebar and up to five in the footer), featured header images, and a custom background. In addition, there’s a showcase page template (pictured in the screenshot above) that includes a featured slider for sticky posts,…

• Post Videos from Your iPhone or iPad

  Gary

  3 Feb 2012 | 5:01 am

  Would you like to post videos to your blog while you’re on the go? Are you interested in a photography theme that’s also video-friendly? Well, look no further, because we have some news for you. The VideoPress upgrade, which allows you to upload and embed your own videos on your blog, now comfortably handles videos from iPhones and iPads. You can shoot vertically or horizontally, and we’ll take care of rotating it for you so that your video looks great when it’s published on your site. If you don’t already have VideoPress on your WordPress.com account, head on…

• New Themes: Currents and Debut

  Takashi Irie

  2 Feb 2012 | 2:00 pm

  Today, I’m excited to introduce the latest additions to our collection of premium themes. Designed by Andy Rutledge, Currents, is a responsive, minimal yet attractive premium theme from WooThemes. Currents is perfect for news driven sites. The phrase, “less is more” couldn’t be more true. This clean and minimal design maximises your reader’s focus on the content. Having said that, the theme is packed with many customization options — a wide featured post slider, custom news areas, six alternative color styles, and more. Together, all of these features help…

• Import from Tumblr in 3 Easy Steps

  Peter Westwood

  2 Feb 2012 | 6:06 am

  We’ve recently noticed that a fair number of you have been bringing your tumblelogs over from Tumblr to WordPress.com using one of the variety of Tumblr to WXR conversion tools which exist on the web. We thought you would appreciate an easier way to import your content, so we bring you 3 easy steps to import your content. Authenticate with Tumblr To bring your tumblelog’s content to WordPress.com, head to Tools → Import in your WordPress.com dashboard and look for the Tumblr importer. If you don’t already have an account here on WordPress.com then head over and sign up…

• Chrome Users: Try the WordPress.com Extension

  Christopher Finke

  27 Jan 2012 | 1:54 pm

  Want to receive WordPress.com notifications instantly, even when you’re not on WordPress.com? Add the new WordPress.com extension for Chrome and as soon as you get a new follower or a new like on one of your posts, a notification will appear in your browser: Simply click the icon to view your latest WordPress.com notifications: Start following new blogs without visiting WordPress.com The Chrome extension also makes it easy to follow sites from your WordPress.com account by displaying a Follow button whenever you’re browsing a site that has an RSS feed. Clicking the Follow button…

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  Ontario-Travel-Secrets Blog

• Feb 9, Escape to the Tropics without Leaving Ontario

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:28 pm

  Can't afford to escape to the tropics this winter? How about flying south to the tropical paradise known as Bird Kingdom? This wonderful land of cuckoos and palm trees is located in Niagara Falls Ontario. For more info: Bird Kingdom

• Feb 8, Cure for the Antique Bug

  7 Feb 2012 | 9:56 pm

  Got that antique roadshow bug? Here are the best places to go antiquing in Ontario: Antiques

• Feb 7, Does Ontario have an anthem?

  6 Feb 2012 | 9:57 pm

  Yes it does! at least an unofficial one! And here are the words... A Place to Stand

• Feb 6, Family Day Ideas

  5 Feb 2012 | 8:20 pm

  Looking for things to do with the kids on Family Day weekend in February? I've got some ideas for animal lovers, arts lovers, your budding scientists and archeologists! Check here: Family Fun

• Dec 28, Distillery District Toronto. Hype or reality?

  28 Dec 2011 | 3:08 pm

  Distillery District Toronto. Does it live up to the hype? Toronto Distillery District has attracted an enormous amount of press in recent years…

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  Travel Blissful

• Mind on Music: Sing It Forward

  Erica Johansson

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  Sing It Forward – Vince Vaccaro & St James Music Academy from Vancouver Is Awesome TV on Vimeo.

• Flea Markets & Boutique Shopping in Sardinia

  Erica Johansson

  6 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  Charming Sardinia on where to shop locally for handicrafts and jewelry.  Cagliari, Sardinia's capital. Written by Luke of Charming Sardinia Situated in the Mediterranean Sea between Italy, France, Spain and Africa, Sardinia has long been a strategic trading and service post for conquering empires. This means the island’s culture and goods are an intriguing hybrid of influences, making this proud autonomous region not just a great place for the tourist, beach goer, or hiker, but for the eager shopper as well. While the bigger cities in Sardinia do have larger outdoor gallerias, the true…

• Communication Coach on How to Make Every Flight Friendly

  Erica Johansson

  5 Feb 2012 | 6:00 am

  Roshini Rajkumar, Communication Coach and founder of Roshini Performance Group, offers communication strategies to make your next flights as pleasant as possible, both for yourself and the other passengers. Contribute to a friendly atmosphere up in the air with Roshini’s advice. Written by Roshini Rajkumar Airplane Etiquette 101 Use your indoor voice. Be aware of how much you drink as to not get tipsy or drunk. Share the armrest. The rule tends to be the passengers on the aisle and window each get one armrest; the poor soul in the middle gets two. If you are on an aisle or window, lean that…

• A Bite-Size Guide to Greece’s Many Islands

  Erica Johansson

  3 Feb 2012 | 6:00 am

  From Rhodes and Kos via Zakynthos and Corfu to Mykonos, Santorini and Crete, Matthew Nunn shares the beauty of Greece. Written by Matthew Nunn  With over a thousand islands and in excess of 200 inhabited, it’s a small wonder there’s any Mediterranean Sea left. Despite what may be happening in Greece today (economically), nothing can take away what happened in Greece in the past. This history as well as the outstanding natural beauty has Greece tipped as one of the most popular travel destinations of 2012. Despite being bound by a strong cultural and historical heritage, many people…

• Nothing Says I ‘Love You’ Quite Like a Valentine’s Break in Budapest

  Erica Johansson

  1 Feb 2012 | 6:00 am

  Catherine Luther suggests a handful of experiences in the Hungarian capital for a romantic February 14th. Written by Catherine Luther When booking a romantic Valentine’s getaway for that special someone, you may initially consider conventional destinations such as Paris, Rome, or Venice. There’s no doubt that these old faithful’s tick all the right boxes for an intimate weekend away, but have you contemplated Budapest? Considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Budapest remains to be an untapped treasure for even the most seasoned city break traveller. Check out these…

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  Travel Blog - Tripbase

• The History of Rail Travel

  Reannon Muth

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:03 pm

  Trains played a huge role in the Industrial Revolution in the US and Europe and enjoyed a 100-year reign as the preferred mode of transportation for urbanites, the military and even the postal service. Then the aviation industry soared into the spotlight and rail travel, much like ship travel, receded into the background. Is there a light at the end of the tunnel for rail travel? Or is it too late? 1) Ancient Trains Long before the Japanese bullet train or the Swedish eco-friendly ‘green’ train or even Thomas the Tank Engine, there was the ‘wagonway’; a wooden cart that was pulled…

• Don’t Make These 6 Mistakes in Rome

  Jo Fitzsimons

  2 Feb 2012 | 9:54 am

  Rome is one of the most remarkable cities in the world. From the ancient Colosseum to the Vatican, Rome deserves the millions of visitors that flock to her decadently marbled streets each year. With all of the promise that the Eternal City holds, make sure you have an unforgettable visit for the right reasons. Here are 6 mistakes to avoid when you head to Rome: 1) Visiting in the Summer months Crowds in Rome can be colossal in the summer. Photo by Tostie14. June, July and August are popular months to take vacations and Rome might seem like the perfect location for one. However, between the…

• 8 Steps to Finding Your Dream Travel Job

  Kayla Washko

  26 Jan 2012 | 10:38 am

  There’s good news for all you armchair travelers and travel addicts: your itch to explore the world could become more than just a hobby. If you’ve always dreamed of sipping your morning coffee in an Italian café or closing deals in a Japanese skyscraper, these 8 tips will help make your dreams a reality: STEP ONE: Analyze Yourself Knowing your skill set is the first step to finding any job, but especially one that could take you halfway around the world and put you outside your comfort zone. Are you a people person or do you prefer to work alone? Are you good at managing multiple tasks…

• 6 European Courses to Expand Your Musical Horizons

  Lane F. Narscil

  19 Jan 2012 | 11:10 am

  Do you want to travel to Europe? Always meant to learn to play an instrument? Why not combine both? Life is too short for regrets or wishing and not doing what you want to do. So, while you are traveling, why not also educate yourself musically? There are several universities and organizations that offer you the chance for a summer, semester or gap year to study music in Europe. Here’s a list of 6 music programs in European cities that will challenge your spirit of adventure and expand your musical horizons: 1) IES Abroad : Vienna, Austria Study and practice the oboe or classical vocal…

• 9 Things I Learned Tracing My Roots in Romania

  Maya Strasser

  12 Jan 2012 | 10:39 am

  Last Summer my parents, my sister and I embarked on a trip we’d been talking about for years; a family roots trip to Romania. Our road-trip route took us from Vienna through Hungary and Transylvania. My parents were both born in Romania and spent some of their childhood there. Both families waited for years for their laissez-passers, and the chance to leave Communist Romania for Israel. My mother is from a small town in Transylvania called Reghin (emigrated at 9), and my father (emigrated at 13), from a city called Timişoara. Here are some of the things I learned from my trip: 1) My…

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  Stuck in Customs

• Patrick Rothfuss

  Trey Ratcliff

  9 Feb 2012 | 12:02 am

    Trey’s Variety Hour #22: Patrick Rothfuss – The Name of the Hangout Don’t forget you can subscribe for free in iTunes: http://goo.gl/ZAKd8 (or other options at http://twit.tv/tvh) if you want to get these first, or have them available later on your computer, iPhone, or iPad. This show was a very special one for me (sounds like a very special episode of Blossom, when she gets a visit from Aunt Flo), but you’ll probably detect this while watching. During the first bit, we talked about art, sharing, the human condition, and unexpected benefits of creating art in a…

• Old London From Above

  Trey Ratcliff

  7 Feb 2012 | 11:01 pm

    New Show – Subscribe Now The podcast of the latest show should come out today.  You’ll get it first if you are subscribed at http://twit.tv/tvh or iTunes Link: goo.gl/ZAKd8.  And tell your friends! This most recent show was a little bit different…  a conversation with another artist outside of the realm of photography that is very influential to me. Daily Photo - Old London From Above It’s a long walk to the top of St. Paul’s.  And by long walk, I should throw in that there are a lot of stairs.  But, after you finally arrive, you’re greeted…

• Featured in Android Market and Google TV

  Trey Ratcliff

  6 Feb 2012 | 11:53 pm

    Featured on Google TV and Android Market! Our Android App (Photo Voyages of Trey Ratcliff) is now featured — very exciting.  And, even better if you don’t want to pay, there is a Free version that with a nice collection of about 50 photos or so.   It works great on your Android and your Google TV!  And yes, it even works on the new color Kindle, once you enable it to run other apps.   Daily Photo – Home in the Hillside Is it okay if I do two Iceland photos in a row?  I hope so, because I’m very excited about this one too. Some of these places you…

• The Beginning of Time

  Trey Ratcliff

  5 Feb 2012 | 11:01 pm

    Patrick Rothfuss Tonight! Are you a fan of Pat? Join us tonight for the live hangout at 7 PM PT on Live.TWIT.tv. EG Video – I’ll Save you $4000 So, instead of buying that ticket, I promised you could watch my video for free, and here you go.  I took a risk with this one, and I hope there are bits in here that are of interest.  Enjoy!  (and yes, I’ll be returning to Monterey this year…maybe I will see some of you there!) Daily Photo – The Beginning of Time I spent most of this weekend working on this photo.  One common question is, “How long do…

• The Old Temple of Lore

  Trey Ratcliff

  4 Feb 2012 | 11:18 pm

     1 Million Downloads! 100 Cameras in 1 for the iPad (iTunes Link) and for the iPhone have passed 1 million downloads!  That’s awesome – thanks so much and thanks for telling your friends!  We just put up another update that fixed a few problems with rotation and memory issues.  Also, thanks for all the great ratings…  I appreciate you taking the time to do those. Daily Photo – The Old Temple of Lore The shapes of many SE Asian temples mimic the closed lotus flower.  Once I found this out, it was incredibly obvious and I saw them everywhere.  I did try to…

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  We Blog The World

• Philly: Graffiti Decorates Graffiti Bar

  Christian Carollo

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:14 am

  PhillyChunkPack, 2011, the graffiti-inspired mural on a wall above Graffiti Bar on 13th Street, is a contemporary scene of cartoon-like characters painted with bright, acrylic spray paint.

• Resilient on the Farm, Okra’s Got Some Southern Charm and

  Danielle Nierenberg

  8 Feb 2012 | 6:28 pm

  By Kate RosenbergOkra, also known as lady’s fingers or gumbo, is among the most popular indigenous vegetables grown in Africa and Asia. This uniquely-shaped pod vegetable is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, with the most common of the okra species, Abelmoschus esculentus, particularly popular in tropical Africa, Southeast Asia, and Brazil, and another ...

• Family Farmers Take The Stand

  Danielle Nierenberg

  8 Feb 2012 | 5:22 pm

  By Leah Baines On January 31st, family farmers will begin the first stage of a court case filed against agro-business powerhouse, Monsanto. The goal of the case, Organic Seed Growers and Trade Association (OSGATA) vs. Monsanto, is to protect the 300,000 organic and non-GMO American farmers from the genetic trespass of Monsanto’s genetically modified seeds, which ...

• Nashville’s Thistle Farms: Cultivating an Alternative to the Streets

  Danielle Nierenberg

  8 Feb 2012 | 3:45 pm

  By Molly TheobaldThe thistle is the perfect symbol for Magdalene, a two-year private rehab facility for women with criminal histories of prostitution and drug addiction in Nashville, Tennessee. The thistle flower, says Penny Hall, a former prostitute and resident of the facility, “comes up out of the concrete, and it transforms in to a beautiful ...

• Discover the Magical El Brujo – The Tattooed Mummy of Cao

  Lainie Liberti

  8 Feb 2012 | 3:37 pm

  The Moche Mummy – the Lady of Cao The story of El Brujo and Lady of Cao as told by archaeologists is of one magic and intrigue. The historical pyramid and the female mummy have continued to intrigue historians even up to today. They from part of cultural traditions of the Peruvian people and as the years go by, more and more people have an interest to learn the secrets that have not been uncovered for many years now. Located just close to the sea, the El Brujo pyramid stands still ...

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  PlumpJack Blog | Wine, Restaurant, Hotel Lifestyle Management Blog | PlumpJack Luxury Life

• Sunday Bloody Sunday

  PlumpJack

  3 Feb 2012 | 5:43 pm

  Is there a better day than a Sunday to drink a Bloody Mary? I don’t think so. Saturday nights are usually full of action (and sometimes multiple alcoholic beverages), and whether you’ve worked a long weekend or been out for some drinks with your friends, why not unwind and brighten your day with a delicious, tomato-based libation to go along with your lunch at PlumpJack Cafe in Squaw Valley, USA?As a barman at PlumpJack on Sunday mornings for more than six years, I’ve had my hand in making a lot of bloodies. Our long-standing and locally-famous PlumpJack Bloody is hard to beat. When the…

• Hilary Newsom's Valentine's Day Wishes

  PlumpJack

  1 Feb 2012 | 3:43 pm

  A few of my favorite things for Valentine’s Day, if I actually celebrated it, would be the following...An Open Letter to My Husband of 11 Years...Geoff, I hope you’re reading this?My darling Geoff,If we have someone to watch the girls and can spring for a getaway, I would love a trip to The Carneros Inn, where I can indulge in one of my favorite dishes at FARM, the renowned lobster risotto with a glass of Billecart Salmon Rose. The next day, a couples massage at the spa, would be a nice bonus. But if you had staying closer to home in mind, I am always a BIG fan of the ridiculously…

• January: Napa Valley Restaurant Month

  PlumpJack

  10 Jan 2012 | 4:03 pm

  It’s Restaurant Month in Northern America’s most celebrated food and wine destination. And we are very, very happy. For the month of January, whether you live in Napa or plan on visiting, PlumpJack has the inside scoop on great offers and culinary delights that you won’t want to miss. 50 of Napa Valley’s restaurants and hotels welcome the New Year with Restaurant Month, including our two restaurants at The Carneros Inn.The Boon Fly Café will feature a special three-course prix-fixe dinner Monday- Thursday for $20.12.FARM will feature a selection of half-priced wines by-the-bottle on…

• Hilary's Hit List

  PlumpJack

  5 Jan 2012 | 11:34 am

  PlumpJack's President, Hilary Newsom's Guide to a Ski Town For those of you, who can’t possibly think of Squaw Valley for anything other than skiing, think again! I am living proof of this since I have skied maybe 9 hours in the last nine years. In those 9 years I still manage to travel to Squaw frequently for both business and pleasure. While my husband and kids conquer KT 22, I take this time to rediscover what I love most about North Lake Tahoe and especially Squaw Valley. Here is my “Hit List,” I hope you find the time to experience some of my favorite things.Always Time to Shop –…

• Celebrate the New Year Dining with PlumpJack

  PlumpJack

  29 Dec 2011 | 6:52 pm

  Need to make last minute plans for New Year’s Eve? Whether you’re in the San Francisco Bay area, Napa or Tahoe, we’ve got just the place for you…NAPA:New Year’s Eve Dinner at FARMThe first seating will feature a six-course menu and will begin from 5:30 to 6:30pm. $125 per person. The first seating is a two hour seating.The second seating will feature an eight-course menu and entertainment. The dinner will begin from 8:00pm to 9:00pm. Entertainment and dancing featuring Dizzy & Grover: 8:30pm- 12:30am. $175 per person. Click here to view the menu.To make a reservation, please…

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  Business Travel Destinations

• How to Hire Catering Companies

  Rob Hard

  30 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am

  Stacy Ziegler, CPCE, CMP, an active member of the National Association of Catering Executives and director of sales at Bold American Catering, Atlanta. Courtesy image. Let’s say you’re charged with planning a corporate meeting, casual reception, formal dinner or maybe a wedding. You want to host the event at a venue that doesn’t have its own catering staff. You have the concept and theme in mind, and you even know that you want to have a plated meal, buffet or passed hors d’oeuvres. Before you hire catering or contact catering companies to work the event, it’s helpful to have…

• Track Airline Flights

  Rob Hard

  17 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am

  There are plenty of reasons to explain flight status delays, including causes by the carriers themselves, weather, the national aviation system, security and simply late arriving aircrafts. But that doesn’t comfort the late traveler who may have been limited to whatever flight he or she selected — they simply stay focused on the importance of getting off the plane where they’re headed in the most timely manner possible. And it also explain the popularity of tools to help track airline flights. We have recently compiled the flight status data of 10 popular airlines, and have…

• Air Tran Flight Status

  Rob Hard

  15 Jan 2012 | 1:50 pm

  More than 15% of Air Tran Airways flights arrived late between December 1, 2010 and November 30, 2011, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). So this reinforces the importance of checking the Air Tran flight status when booking your flight or before heading to the airport. Air Tran Airways had a total of 249,110 flights during this time period. BTS tracks the flight status of airlines in depth, so let’s take a look at the flight status of late arriving flights for Air Tran more closely: Total flights arriving late: 37,708 Average departure delay:…

• Alaska Air Flight Status

  Rob Hard

  15 Jan 2012 | 1:45 pm

  Less than 12% of Alaska Air flights arrived late between December 1, 2010 and November 30, 2011, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). So this reinforces the importance of checking the Alaska Air flight status when booking your flight or before heading to the airport. US Airways had a total of 409,759 flights during this time period. BTS tracks the flight status of airlines in depth, so let’s take a look at the flight status of late arriving flights for Alaska Air more closely: Total flights arriving late: 143,667 Average departure delay: 41.79…

• American Airlines Flight Status

  Rob Hard

  15 Jan 2012 | 1:40 pm

  Nearly 20% of American Airlines flights arrived late between December 1, 2010 and November 30, 2011, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). So this reinforces the importance of checking the American Airlines flight status when booking your flight or before heading to the airport. American Airlines had a total of 540,950 flights during this time period. BTS tracks the flight status of airlines in depth, so let’s take a look at the flight status of late arriving flights for American Airlines more closely: Total flights arriving late: 106,382 Average…

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  A Postcard a Day

• Tall ships

  8 Feb 2012 | 5:27 pm

  The text on the back of the card says this was the "meeting of great sailing ships (August 1994)".  The card itself was sent in 1999 so the publishers were certainly making the most of their photo opportunity.  Of course it's very understandable, with such beautiful ships. The background shows the walled city of St Malo which is in Brittany in north western France.  During the middle ages, it was a fortified island and declared independence from France.  The people there called themselves "Malouins".  Interestingly, if you follow the news about the dispute…

• Not just a staircase

  7 Feb 2012 | 5:31 pm

  Not just a spiral staircase, but a double spiral, the twin spiral staircase at Graz in Austria.  It is in the castle complex in the north-east corner of the city walls.    The staircase, originally created by Peter Parler, was built between 1499 and 1500.  It isn't the only one of its type nor the oldest to be found, but it's important because of the quality if its design and detailing. Graz is the second largest city in Austria, after Vienna, and its historic centre is a World Heritage Site.

• Jongmyo, Seoul

  6 Feb 2012 | 7:53 am

  The Jongmyo shrine, sometimes spelled Chongmyo, is thought to be the oldest royal Confucian shrine.  It is devoted to services in memory of the kings and queens of Korea of the dynasty which lasted from the 14th to the early 20th century. The building dedicated a room for each king and his queen and was continually expanded lengthwise from west to east.  During the the Seven Year War with Japan in the 16th century it was burnt down, but rebuilt soon after. It is the longest traditional building in Korea. The rituals as shown on the postcard are performed by musicians…

• A bumper bundle from Russia

  5 Feb 2012 | 6:07 am

  Not one but three map cards arrived from Russia this week, all from the same person.  They are all by the artist Daria Gerasimova, the third being very like the style of the "cat map" that arrived a few months ago.  This time there is a horse galloping over a map of Tomsk.  A long time ago, I was taught something about Omsk and Tomsk in a history lesson at school.  Sadly, only those two names remain and nothing about their significance. On the envelope were two stamps out of the se-tenant strip commemorating the 300th anniversary of the Moscow Post Office. The founder of…

• Boys and dogs

  4 Feb 2012 | 7:59 am

  Would you like a piece? Now, sit nicely for me!  Both these postcards came from a collection given to me by a Dutch friend which, I believe, were all cards sent to her brother.  I tried Google translate, which I normally find reasonably accurate, for both these cards but it made little sense.  I guessed the first (and may well be very wrong) but the second involved far too much guesswork so I decided not to attempt it.. Both were sent in May 1938, to the same child and from the same people.  I can't imagine why they sent two cards unless it was because they couldn't choose…

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  Chris Around The World: A Journalist's Travels on the Road

• California Dreaming: Big Sur

  Chris

  9 Feb 2012 | 4:00 am

  My California Dreaming series continues with a look at Big Sur.This stretch of coastal California has inspired writers, travelers and thinkers for more than a century. Authors such as Henry Miller and Jack Kerouac found inspiration in the forested coast, which was sparsely populated until the famed Route 1 became a state highway in 1939.Big Sur also played a big role in developing “New Age” California culture. The Esalen Institute, founded in 1962, hosted East-meets-West classes and seminars that attracted big name lecturers: Timothy Leary, Carlos Castaneda,  Deepak Chopra,…

• California Dreaming: Carmel by the Sea

  Chris

  6 Feb 2012 | 4:36 am

  “California Dreaming/On such a winter’s day.”One of the best things about moving to the West Coast has been my newfound proximity to California. At the Los Angeles Travel Show a few weeks ago, I learned that California is the number one state that American leisure travelers want to visit. It seems to be for me: I’ve gone to California six times in less than two years. From Los Angeles to Monterey to Napa Valley, I’ve enjoyed it all – and I always look forward to my next trip down.During February, I’m going to focus on California, and some of the…

• Photo Friday: Village near Tonle Sap Lake, outside of Siem Reap, Cambodia

  Don Faust

  3 Feb 2012 | 5:00 am

  This week’s Photo Friday (#FriFotos) theme is VILLAGES.  Pictured is a small (and very wet) village near Tonle Sap Lake, not far from Siem Reap Cambodia.Photo Friday: Village near Tonle Sap Lake, outside of Siem Reap, Cambodia is a post from: Chris Around The World: A Journalist's Travels on the Road

• Ask Chris: Renting a Campervan, New Zealand

  Chris

  2 Feb 2012 | 5:56 am

  Question: My husband and I are taking your advice—we’re going to campervan through New Zealand!  We’re flying in and out of Auckland, and we’ll have 10 days total.  Your blog post was very helpful, but I have a few additional questions. Do you recommend your campervan company?How did you know where to go?  Did the campervan company provide a concierge or planning service?  Is it easy to find the national campervan parks?How did you book your excursions?  Which excursions/activities would you recommend doing?Which places/towns/sites do you recommend visiting?We are planning to…

• February 2012 Desktop Calendar Wallpaper

  Chris

  31 Jan 2012 | 4:03 am

  Get your free February 2012 Desktop Calendar Wallpaper!  Pictured are snow monkeys soaking in the baths at Jigokudani monkey park in the Japanese Alps.  Choose the size that best fits your screen resolution.1024×768 | 1280×800 | 1280×1024 | 1440×900 | 1600×900 | 1600×1200 | 1680×1050 |1920×1080 | 1920×1200 | iPad | iPhone 4Next wallpaper coming February 29!Like this photo?  Friend us on Facebook for real-time photos, taken around the world.February 2012 Desktop Calendar Wallpaper is a post from: Chris Around The World: A…

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  The Q Family Adventures Travel Blog

• A Hawaiian Family Adventure

  Amy @ The Q Family

  2 Feb 2012 | 9:05 am

  Even though you spend every day with your family, there’s something about taking a trip together that just brings everyone closer. Being away from hectic daily life allows you to have more enjoyable... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Top Family Friendly Things to Do with Kids in Singapore

  Amy @ The Q Family

  27 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  Summer break is still months away but it’s never too soon to start planning. And actually most experienced family travelers probably map out their next summer vacation and start booking their... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Phuket With Kids: 5 Family Favorite Moments in Phuket

  Amy @ The Q Family

  25 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  With the gloomy sky and low temperature we are experiencing in Atlanta, I am yearning for the warm breeze and salty smell of the ocean we had many years ago in Phuket. It had been over 5 years since... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Travel Tips: How to Plan a Family Ski Trip on a Budget

  Amy @ The Q Family

  23 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am

  There is no doubt that family ski vacation is expensive. There is no sugar coat about it. There is only a small window each year for you to enjoy this winter sport and there are only handful of ski... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

• Keystone Ski Resort with Kids: Wonderful Stay for Family at River Run Village

  Amy @ The Q Family

  20 Jan 2012 | 9:03 am

  With the amount of family ski trip posts, I hope you won’t get bored about this. We have so much information to share about our first family ski trip experience that I know other families who... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

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  Travelanthropist

• Travel to the Philippines to Help Rebuild the Batad Rice Terraces

  travelanthropist

  2 Feb 2012 | 1:12 pm

  As a result of a series of typhoons, the Batad Rice Terraces in Ifugao, a World Heritage site since 1995, are in danger. The Batad community will be open to voluntourists, who will be able to help as well as have a taste of traditional Ifugao life and culture.

• Places to Go and Not Go in 2012

  travelanthropist

  10 Jan 2012 | 12:41 am

  Looking for the ultimate travel experience for 2012? Here are a few destinations to add to your list or keep off your list!

• How to Find 500,000 Places to Stay in Over 175 Countries

  travelanthropist

  13 Dec 2011 | 8:34 am

  Social travel site Tripping.com, which connects travelers with local people for tips or even homestays in over 175 countries, recently announced the launch of a new search engine that aggregates listings from the world's top vacation and short-term rental sites.

• 10,000 Free Round-Trip Airfares to Japan

  travelanthropist

  11 Oct 2011 | 5:05 pm

  Tourism to Japan has dropped significantly because of concerns about safety and the strong yen. Would a free round-trip airline ticket to Japan entice you to go? In a grand effort to lure foreign travelers back to their country, the Japan Tourism Agency has proposed...

• International Chefs Arrive in S. Africa to Support Hungry Children

  travelanthropist

  7 Sep 2011 | 12:56 pm

  The plight of starving children in South Africa is not going unnoticed. About 250 chefs from 44 countries have gathered in South Africa, along with 700 local chefs, to volunteer their time and expertise to a huge fundraising drive.

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  Atlas Cruises and Tours Blog

• Panama Increasing in Popularity with Travelers

  Sue Lobo

  9 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  In the not too distant past, when considering a trip to Central America, Costa Rica was, for many, one of the first places to come to mind. Fewer people were likely to think of Costa Rica’s close neighbor Panama, which until recently may have been one of the best kept secrets for tourism. With its spectacular scenery, interesting history and a recent economic boom, there are a number of reasons this beautiful country, situated between Costa Rica and Columbia, is an excellent place to visit.Panama, with its two oceans, 500 rivers, lush rainforests, and mountains, offers breathtaking…

• Preventing Norovirus Infection While Traveling on a Cruise

  Sue Lobo

  8 Feb 2012 | 12:29 pm

  It is important to note that Norovirus is not exclusive to cruise ships. With more and more cruise ships outbreaks in recent years, awareness of Norovirus has increased, but before you reconsider a cruise vacation because of all of the news reports, there are some things you should know. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, but it does not limit itself to cruise ships. It is almost as common as a cold, with over 22 million cases reported annually by the CDC. Many times it is called a stomach flu or food poisoning. Norovirus spreads quickly whenever large amounts…

• World’s Most Romantic Hotels

  Sue Lobo

  8 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  Love is in the air, with Valentine’s Day just around the corner.  Trip Advisor just released their list of Travelers’ Choice Romantic hotels in both the United States and abroad. This list was based on millions of reviews from travelers around the world. In the U.S., Hawaii has 2 of the top 10 hotels, and California has 3. Perhaps the most surprising result was the #2 spot being taken by Starfish Manor Oceanfront Hotel in Lincoln City Oregon, and the Inn of the Dove in Bensalem, Pennsylvania was number 3. As far as romantic hotels internationally, 2 of the top 10 were in Bora…

• Crystal Cruises Announced NFL Legends Cruise

  Sue Lobo

  7 Feb 2012 | 4:51 pm

  If you are missing football already, ultra-luxury cruise line Crystal Cruises announced an “NFL Legends” Themed cruise.  Scheduled motivational speakers are: Coach Don Shula: Hall of Famer who holds the most wins in National Football League history as coach of the only undefeated NFL season record-holders, the Miami Dolphins, as well as the Baltimore Colts. Larry Csonka: Bowl MVP and Hall of Fame All-Pro running back for Shula’s undefeated Miami Dolphins and the NY Giants.   Jim Tunney: “The Dean of NFL Referees,” with thirty years’ experience as a pro…

• Globus Tours GoParks Partnership

  Sue Lobo

  7 Feb 2012 | 1:03 pm

  For 2012, the Globus family of brands, which includes Globus tours, Cosmos tours, Avalon Waterways and Monograms Vacations, entered into an exciting new partnership with the National Park Foundation (NPF), the official charity of the US National Park Service. This partnership, called GoParks! will offer one-of-a-kind tours and travel packages for those who are interested in experiencing America’s beautiful National Parks. As an added incentive, when any traveler books a US National Park vacation through Globus, Cosmos or Monograms, a significant percentage of the proceeds will go to the…