On 2nd September 2009, four of us did the 2.8 km. Wildflower Walk
at Mullewa (pronounced ‘Mull a
war’), a town 452 km. north of Perth & 99
km east of Geraldton, Western Australia and having a population of
about only 1,200. It is renowned for its carpets of 'everlastings'
and the wreath flower during the wildflower season from July to
November. 'Everlastings' are so called as once cut they last for a
long time. This is a remake of a clip uploaded before, with added
musical soundtrack created using Apple's 'Soundtrack' software.
after dancing and singing at a beach near Cartagena on a sunny
Sunday these children had my fish and chips...well done boys !!
Isla Cana Azuero manglar and laguna near Pedasi on the way to
Tonosi take a boat from the shore cross the manglar and laguna and
arrive to the island take a horse rideing and arrive to the beach
Baxta and his friends make like Lawerence and hit the infamous
sands of the Rub Al Khali in the hard driving and humblest car on
the road - the KIA Picanto.
Stopovers at a tea room at Perenjori and later at Wubin, both small
Western Australian towns, sometime in September 2009. We were on
our way to the monastic town of New Norcia after our heady
discovery of the wreath flowers at the outskirts of Morawa. This is
a remake of an earlier video, with an added music track created
using Apple's 'Soundtrack' software.
Kings Park & Botanic Garden Perth WA when wildflowers - waxes,
daisies, everlastings .... - were in season. Video taken sometime
in mid-September 2009. Music track created using Apple's
'Soundtrack' software.
In September 2009, we were in Western Australia for the wildflowers
season. Our 2,000 km road trip took us to Cervantes to see The
Pinnacles, Jurien Bay, Port Denison-Dongara, Geraldton, Mullewa for
the Wild Flower Walk, Morawa, Perenjori, the monastic town of New
Norcia, Mandurah, Margaret River, Busselton, Augusta, Cape Leeuwin,
Pemberton, Walpole and the Valley of the Giants TreeTop Walk,
Albany and its Wind Farm and neighbouring Torndirrup National Park
for The Natural Bridge and The Gap, the Porongurups, and back to
Perth in time to see The Wildflowers Festival at Kings Park and
Botanic Garden. Music tracks created using Apple's 'Soundtrack'
software.
This toyshop window display caught my attention when I was at
Singapore Changi Int'l Airport Terminal Two beginning 2010.
Practically, the whole of the grinning (and some grimacing) gang
was there - Stitch Minnie Pooh Hello Kitty Babes as well as some
meanies & baddies. Clip shot by digital camera in video mode.
Music created using Apple's 'Soundtrack' software.
Recently, I attempted the 9-km walk among The Southern Ridges in
Singapore. I managed to cover substantially Mount Faber Park and
Telok Blangah Hill Park. Rain and darkness prevented me from going
further to Kent Ridge Park. Still, I enjoyed myself tremendously
feeling close to nature and revelling in the views from Henderson
Waves and Forest Walk. Music tracks created using Apple's
'Soundtrack' software. Video update: Alkaff Mansion is set to
reopen by end 2010 with an Italian makeover featuring a
Tuscan-themed restaurant & pizza place & will have 2 ornate
European-style fountains out front
Camping the desert wonderland of Dubai.
Captain and Clark travel to Thailand to get blessed by a Buddhist
monk with a sak yant, or mystical tattoo.
Bali trip Nov 2007 featuring Kuta beach in the early morning, Kuta
town at night, Barong and Legong dances at Batubulan to the
accompaniment of Gamelan music, Pura Taman Ayun at Mengwi, artistic
Ubud, refreshing Bedugul, and Pura Tanah Lot. Video made from 2007
raw footages with slightly different selections from video uploaded
nearly two years ago, now with music tracks created using Apple's
'Soundtrack' software. Original Gamelan music is retained for
Barong and Legong dances
The biennial Singapore Garden Festival was held recently from 15 -
22 July 2010. Spread over 2ha of indoor space, it showcased 31
gardens and floral displays by award-winning designers from 17
countries. More than 250,000 tropical and temperate plants were
used for these displays in the event organised by the National
Parks Board, Singapore. Forming part of the Festival too was the
Singapore Orchid Show 2010. Music track created using Apple's
'Soundtrack' software.
An interpretation of Rick Eckersley’s
‘Fantasy Gardens’ category
display of ‘The Last Australian
Garden’ at the Singapore Garden Festival 15
– 22 July 2010. According to a write-up in the
Festival’s Official Show Programme, Rick
Eckersley came from a sheep grazing farm background in southern
Australia before moving into the creation of beautiful gardens. The
environmental theme he explores here –
juxtaposing rural farming implements & materials and rugged
natural plantings against the ‘pure, delicate
forms of exotic garden plants’ -
‘is a provocative insight into the land and how
it is managed’. Here it is ably explained and
interpreted by one of the Show’s
representatives.
Video taken 11 June 2010 showing Marina Bay Sands and the Helix
Bridge and Singapore City night skyline. Music track created using
Apple's 'Soundtrack' software.
Captainjohn explores the ghoulish side of the beautiful, historic
Scottish city of Edinburgh as he introduces us to the famous 1800's
body snatchers...Burke and Hare
The land of the thundering dragon had always been on my wish list
of places to visit. This last November I got to visit the Himalaya
Kingdom of Bhutan . Bhutan is considered one of the last Shangri-La
in the world. But it comes with a price
Lonely Planet author Tim Hornyak gets away from the
city’s concrete bustle to explores
Singapore’s natural side at a national park and
at Singapore zoo. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is an oasis of
tropical forest that inspires deep breathing and reverent
whispering but it’s the macaque monkeys that
steal the show.
Art + culture + food + fashion + music. It's no surprise Melbourne
is the cool capital of Australia. This video shows you why.
How you can avoid too much pressure on your wallet whilst having a
great time in Sydney.
The Blue Mountains is Sydney's greatest recreation area for people
who prefer the bush to the sea. They are part of the Great Dividing
Range, which stretches from Gippsland region of Victoria in the
south to the tropical rainforests of north Queensland. The Blue
Mountains are so named because, from Sydney, they look blue. They
are clad in vast forests of eucalypts (commonly called gum trees),
which in the hot sun discharge a fine mist of eucalyptus oil from
their leaves. The mist refracts light, which makes the haze look
blue at a distance. That same oil makes the Australian bush as
volatile as a pine forest in a bush (forest) fire. The vapour
explodes, causing the fire to race through the canopy.
How to get a great meal deal whilst travelling in Melbourne
Captainjohn and an unusual sidekick tour the ancient Roman City of
Umm Quay and Jerash with a stop at Ajloun castle in Amman, Jordan
Traveling the ring road around Iceland is an adventure that every
traveler needs to make. I traveled 1800 k in one week and saw some
of the most incredible scenery I've ever seen anyone in the world.
This was truly a Destination Unknown
Conoce del nuestra mano la Semana Santa en Granada: sus gentes, sus
procesiones y como se vive. Travel with us to the Granadian Holy
Week in Spain: people, procesions y general feeling.
Nestled in the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia,
award-winning Whistler is frequently rated the Number One Ski
Resort in North America, but the resort is just as lively in the
summer.
On My trip to Bhutan I would discover a land of incredible beauty,
a diverse culture, and my friend Tshering taught me how the world
can actually learn a few lessons from this tiny Himalayan Kingdom
of Bhutan
I thought Baguio would be just another village up in the mountains
(yes we went to quite a few villages during our vacation to the
Philippines!) but I was pleasantly surprised with what Baguio had
to offer. Learn more about the indigenous Filipinos known as the
igorots at the Botanical Gardens (I love that we had to pay to take
a photo with them :P) or view panoramic shots of the mountainside
from Mines View Park or maybe get inspired to join the Armed forces
by checking out the Philippine Military Academy. And there's loads
more to do, its a great tourist destination. I will definitely head
back up there when I get the chance.
On our family trip to the Philippines, we headed to Saud beach in
Pagudpud, a beach often overshadowed by the more popular beaches in
Boracay and Cebu BUT it was voted one of Asia's top 10 beaches in
2007 by respected Australian Travel Writer and Photographer John
Borthwick. What he said about Saud Beach: "On the northwest coast
of Luzon, little-known Saud Beach at Pagudpud is a 2km arc of
blindingly pure sand bordered by the blue of the South China Sea.
It's like an uncluttered version of that famous Philippines shore,
White Beach, on Boracay Island. Beat the developers, the
hair-braiders and sarong-floggers - head to Pagudpud now". From the
beach we could see the Bangui Windfarm, this place as well as Cape
Bojeador Lighthouse was recommended by our resort clerk so we
decided to head out ...
We stopped for breakfast at one of the most bizarre family
restaurants called Isdaan in Gerona. A restaurant where you'll find
yourself surrounded by a collection of statues of giant humanoids,
Buddhas and even a T-Rex. It's probably more famous for its tacky
decor & entertainment, than for its food! Have a laugh with the
singing & dancing chefs (who gave us their rendition of
'Igilling Gilling' from the popular Filo show Wow Wow Wee) or
relieve stress by throwing crockery at the Taksyapo Wall (dubbed
the "Wall of Fury!") or take on the San Kilo bridge challenge. It
was about 7am so the wall of fury wasn't open. Shattered we
couldn't give you a demo...ah maybe next time!
Captainjohn takes on a tour of Dublin just in time for the Saint
Patricks Day celebration...
St. Thomas is a mountainous island of incredible beauty. We only
had nine hours to visit . So with no time to waste we headed off
and discovered two of St. Thomas's premier attractions Magens Bay
& shopping.
On the fourth day of our cruise we arrived in St. Lucia. We took
off to meet some locals and visit one of the icons of our world
,the Pitons. At the end of the day I knew I found a place that I
like to return to.
There is No other island in the Caribbean that can you boast about
the diverse of cultures that you will find on the beautiful island
of St. Martin/ St.Marrten.
A section of Tokyo called Akihabara, also known as Electric City.
Aside from being THE place for electronics, it also brings out the
geeks, or "otaku" as they are called, from the woodworks. Aside
from the "electric maids," other young costumed girls - cosplay -
are out there performing to be the next Ayumi Hamasaki (a Japanese
version of Britney Spears). A very surreal place indeed.
While traveling across Cambodia, I made a stop in the capitol of
Phnom Penh. I asked my tuk-tuk driver to take me to a shooting
range, where I'd heard there was an assortment of assault rifles to
choose from. So on this rainy day, I shot my first AK-47 and a
friend I met shot a 50 caliber machine gun.
http://www.deliberateindustries.blogspot.com
Early October in Toronto means only one thing: Nuit Blanche! This
all night art festival features bright lights, wild exhibits and
even blindfolded wrestlers!? Take a look for yourselves and enjoy.
A visual journey through Bhutan with Wanderlust and Lipstick with
leader and owner, Beth Whitman.
Lonely Planet author, Tim Hornyak, shows off the culinary
highlights of his home town Montreal, Canada. Forget high end
cuisine - there are particular local specialties brought to the
city by immigrants from around the world. Tim takes on a teetering
smoked meat sandwich from Schwartz's, bagels from the St. Viateur
bakery and a serious-looking mountain of gravy-smothered fries
called 'Poutine' from La Banquise.
Lonely Planet author Tim Hornyak revels in the geekiness and
kookiness that is Tokyo’s Electric Town -
Akihabara. A warren of electronics, computer and anime stores,
it’s a haven for the Otaku,
a Japanese term used to refer to people
with obsessive interests, particularly manga, and video
games.
One of the best off the beaten path destinations in Morocco is the
town of Azemmour located along the Atlantic coast just north of El
Jedida. It is a small town with few tourists that feels like the
real Morocco. There is an exceptional riad here in which to make
your base while visiting this overlooked yet charming town. The
Portuguese built the town tow miles inland along the Oum er Rbia
river as a fortified trading post in 1513. Except for two riads
there are no tourists restaurants or facilities. One of the riads,
however, is reason enough to stay in Azemmour. The Riad Azama is an
18th century traditional home handsomely restored with 6 rooms
located around a lovely court yard. This is one of the most
beautiful Riads we have seen in Morocco.
The High Line is New York City's newest and most unique public
park, built on an abandoned elevated freight railway that ran from
1934 to 1980 through Manhattan's West Side. The High Line opened in
June 2009, with restored Art Deco railings, concrete pathways,
seating and an otherworldly landscape inspired by the wild flowers,
grasses and trees that took hold during the decades the railway was
abandoned.
Discover the Ancient Ruins of Palmyra, Syria. Once a stop over town
for travellers crossing the Syria Desert, also known as the 'Bride
of the Desert'.
3 days. 5 people. 3500km. 50,000 photos Want to come to Central
Australia? Travel from Alice Springs to Coolum via Mt Isa in 24min.
Sunrises, vistas, towns, forests, highways, night driving and the
weather. Shot 20-22 December 2009 with a Canon 5Dmk2. Original
soundtrack composed for film. The full 1080HD 3pt version is on
Youtube A full length 640x360 version is on Vimeo Sorry for the
small vid here, limited by the max file size.
"Real polar bears swim in salt water", the locals at Birch Bay,
Washington argue with pride. This beach-resort town just below the
Canadian border about 100 miles north of Seattle may be small in
size, but big in personality when it comes to celebrating the
holidays! Get ready to "dive in" with Julius Reque as he and
hundreds more welcome the New Year with a cold splash - Polar Bear
style!
As an independent traveler one of the last things I thought I would
ever do in my travels is take a cruise. There was many questions to
be answered As I set off on this journey with my wife and son. We
were about to find out cruising isn't what it used to be.
On the third day of our Carnival Cruise we had planned to visit the
sites of Bridgetown Barbados. Unfortunately my hangover would not
go away so I did the next best thing and headed off to relax on a
beautiful white sand beach.
Is there skiing in Iraq? We were determined to find out.
Captain and Clark find themselves on the front lines of an ancient
festival in the Middle East.
Wayang Kulit is Balis beautiful form of musical theatre. It is
designed around shadow and light. These romantic tales from ancient
Hindu mythology are synchronized to the rhythms of the gamelan.
Puppets cast shadows on a huge screen illuminated by candle or bulb
light.
This is Destination Unknown China, With Music by the Dama LLamas. I
hope you enjoy it as much as i did filmimg in China.
Claire Bushey couldn't stop thinking about the handsome actor she
met on a trip to England. Then she did something she'll always
regret.
The travel-themed show had won every year since the reality TV
category was added. This year’s upset winner? Top Chef.
The Canadian Coast Guard removed 110 passengers from a cruise ship
stranded in the Arctic Ocean this weekend. The ship was exploring
the Northwest Passage when it got hung up on an unmapped
rock—presumably, we’ll see more of these incidents as
the passage becomes increasingly viable, so Canada, keep your
icebreakers sharp.
Fascinating story in the New York Times about how language shapes
our thoughts and feelings. Here’s but one interesting nugget:
In a different experiment, French and Spanish speakers were asked
to assign human voices to various objects in a cartoon. When French
speakers saw a picture of a fork (la fourchette), most of them
wanted it to speak in a woman’s voice, but Spanish speakers,
for whom el tenedor is masculine, preferred a gravelly male voice
for it. More recently, psychologists have even shown that
“gendered languages” imprint gender traits for objects
so strongly in the mind that these associations obstruct
speakers’ ability to commit information to memory. For some
reason, all this reminds me of Al Shamshoon.
What was it? A battle? A shot over the bow? Maybe, looking back, it
was just a misfire. But it got L.A. Mexican foodies pretty excited
for a few days. At a talk in Orange County last week, Pulitzer
Prize-winning restaurant critic Jonathan Gold—a hero of ours
who has made a career of championing great hole-in-the-wall ethnic
restaurants in SoCal—took a shot at PBS TV host and
restaurateur Rick Bayless. The chef, whose Frontera Grill in
Chicago gets rave reviews, just designed the menu for a new upscale
Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles, Red O—his first project in
the region. Now, L.A. loves its homegrown Mexican food. It’s
a source of pride. So the arrival of Bayless earlier this year was
bound to raise eyebrows. The Los Angeles Times gave Red O a
favorable revie...
Anyone who has ever tried to learn even a few words of Chinese will
appreciate the difficulty of the task. It turns out it was a
serious challenge even for a woman with a Ph.D. in linguistics and
six languages already under her belt. That would be Deborah
Fallows, author of the new book, Dreaming in Chinese: Mandarin
Lessons in Life, Love and Language. NPR just profiled her. My
favorite passage from the radio piece concerned her attempt to
order take-out Taco Bell, of all things: Her tones weren’t
very good at that point, though, so Fallows’ request for
“takeout”—dabao—was met with a blank stare
from the Taco Bell employee. Fallows tried saying dabao with every
combination of tones she could think of—rising tones, falling
tones—and when t...
Adam Richman takes questions after The Big Ugly Burger challenge.
Bert cavorts with flightless birds and then samples an ostrich
burger.
Intimidator rises 232 feet then races over a mile of twists at 75
mph.
Get a lesson in a "Who's Who of American Jazz" during your trip to
Kansas City.
Sam tries the luge, finds a new favorite dish and dances with the
Peranakans.
Adam Richman takes questions after the Ultimate Destroyer
Challenge.
Anthony Bourdain gets a lesson in Roman cuisine and culture.
Sam shares how to find the best bite in the food hawker centers.
Tony discusses ethics and favoritism in the food industry with
Michael Ruhlman.
LA's food trucks went gourmet, but only one set of wheels is doing
it in heels.
Everything is on wheels here, even food. See LA's recipe for mobile
munchies.
Sam shares her favorites from Japan, including a sushi breakfast
and geishas.
Anthony Bourdain heads to the beach outside of Beirut to visit Chez
Maguy.
You don't have to be a metalhead to crave burgers from LA's Grill
'Em All.
Endure a whole-new breed of lockdowns in Ghost Adventures' third
season!
Adam Richman visits the Fun Town Amusement Pier for some fun by the
shore.
Adam Richman discusses his Ludicrous Wings Challenge in New Jersey.
Find out the history behind Detroit's delicious staple -- the Coney
Island Dog.
Sam advises staying at a home-stay to fully experience the Balinese
culture.
Anthony Bourdain answers a common question about traveling to
Paris.
Anthony Bourdain talks about ratitude and traveling back to Paris.
Anthony Bourdain recaps some of his best moments from the past 100
episodes.
Anthony Bourdain talks about his favorite things to do in Paris.
Adam Richman gets a lesson in Syracuse history at The Salt Museum.
Anthony Bourdain and the crew dish on their beloved Diane Schutz.
Zak encounters the violent spirits that infest a gold-rush mining
town.
Zak, Nick and Aaron confront ghosts who have terrorized them for 2
years.
Zak encounters malevolent spirits aboard this World War II-era
vessel.
Zak investigates Spooky Hollow, where the ghosts have a taste for
men.
A new homeowner discovers murderous spirits near a bloody sink.
Set off on a vampire vacation inspired by
literature’s greatest blood suckers in
Transylvania, New Orleans and Forks, WA.
Take a haunted tour to learn about the ghosts that linger in these
historic American cities.
Here are some tips to make the most of your leaf-peeping road trip.
Dubai’s luxury hotels pamper guests with tony
rooms, refined international food and extra-special amenities.
Bottoms up as we take a tour of Scotland’s best
distilleries where malt masters carry on the
country’s age-old whisky tradition.
Reykjavik is known for its vibrant nightlife with dozens of diverse
bars and clubs in the city center, ranging from cozy pubs to
rocking mega-clubs.
Discover Travel Channel's picks for America's top 10 treasure
hunting hotspots.
Nantucket is as much a sanctuary for wildlife as it is a getaway
from daily life, perfect for weekend travel.
We’ve pulled together 4 popular road trips
through Napa and Sonoma counties that touch upon the
region’s greatest offerings.
Palm Springs is a must-visit for cinephiles, history buffs,
architecture enthusiasts, those with an appetite for tasty treats
and more.
Leave your sense of doubt at home, and let yourself be mystified
and thrilled at the country’s best magic shows.
New Orleans is a city for foodies with fine dining and historic
cafes all around the city serving distinctive Creole and Cajun
dishes.
From city escapades to beach vacations, here are our picks for the
sweetest and sexiest Valentine’s Day
adventures.
The best way to experience Jamaican cuisine is to get out from your
resort and dine with the locals. Here are some of the
island’s best spots for classic Jamaican fare.
Surrounded by water on all sides, Italy has a unique coastline with
nooks and crannies that create quiet swimming coves and picturesque
seascapes.
Take a break from the traffic and crowds, and appreciate the
unspoiled beauty at 5 of the country’s
least-visited national parks.
For the city-dwellers and vacationers among us, urban parks provide
the perfect respite.
These top 10 luxury shopping spots are filled with enough high
fashion and designer labels to make shopaholics and style mavens
swoon.
Set off from Phoenix for a road trip to Sedona past a dazzling
display of nature and history framed by towering red rocks.
Head to the hills for a cool summer vacation at one of North
America’s great mountain resorts or national
parks.
Hyannis, the former vacation destination for the iconic Kennedy
clan, is the gateway to Cape Cod with its historic Main Street,
pleasant beaches and bustling harbor.
Take a culinary tour of Italy's most delectable regional dishes.
Amidst South Africa’s natural wonders are a
series of beaches with striking turquoise waters and sparkling
white sandy shores. The beaches span 4 distinct areas, each with
its own personality.
Explore Alaska on an RV road trip, seeing Denali, Fairbanks, Valdez
and everything in between.
The Czech Republic -- split into Bohemia in the west and Moravia in
the east -- is loaded with fascinating off-the-radar towns,
villages and historical sites.
The long lines at Bangkok’s outside food carts
let you in on the locals’ secret
–- tasty street food is a national culinary
treasure at a fraction of the price of fancier restaurants.
The Pacific Northwest is known for its open spaces, and its vast
beauty is easily explored by car.
The beaches along the Eastern Mediterranean range from glitzy and
glamorous to perfectly secluded hamlets. Here’s
our selection of the best beaches in Croatia, Greece, Turkey and
Montenegro.
Cruise the Road to Hana, and enjoy the winding roads, 1-lane
bridges and stunning landscapes.
A weekend road trip along Route 66 promises encounters with an
abundance of restaurants, kitschy attractions, photo ops, gift
shops and more.
If only there was a remote control that could slow down these
waning summer weeks as we cross the threshold into the final days
of summer. Looking for ways to savor these blue-sky days? Take ...
Summer is obviously the official season for barbecuing and there
are lots of new grills, advanced technologies and fancy tools help
us create the perfect meal. But step back to a time when barbecuing
involved ...
There is an ancient critter living in Oregon that is pretty well
known in some circles. Care to guess what species it
might be? Let me offer you some hints: this species lives in rivers
but it ...
Editor’s Note: Our Cheese and Chocolate
Cuisinternship Winner, Lisa Graff, recently completed her week long
adventure in Southern Oregon at Rogue Creamery and Lillie Belle
Farms. We’ll be posting her recaps over the
next several ...
The mighty Columbia River is rich with natural and cultural
histories and I explore it by sea kayak via the little known Lewis
and Clark Wildlife Refuge. Could there be a better escape from a
simmering, ...
Editor’s Note: Our Cheese and Chocolate
Cuisinternship Winner, Lisa Graff, recently completed her week long
adventure in Southern Oregon at Rogue Creamery and Lillie Belle
Farms. We’ll be posting her recaps over the
next several ...
You may know all about the “usual places to
go†in Oregon—Multnomah Falls,
Portland and Mount Hood. RV campers willing to take a closer look,
however, can find pockets of adventure hidden in the ...
This week, my adventures across Oregon takes me to a place that
used to be a true hot zone of volcanic eruptions, magma flows and a
birthplace of mountains – evidence
that’s obvious not only ...
As the days grow shorter and the temperature slowly drops, get out
and see color change before your eyes at
Oregon’s urban and rural forests. From bright
reds to deep yellows, leaves of maples, dogwood, ...
Editor’s Note: Our Cheese and Chocolate
Cuisinternship Winner, Lisa Graff, recently completed her week long
adventure in Southern Oregon at Rogue Creamery and Lillie Belle
Farms. We’ll be posting her recaps over the
next several ...
Bring a warm sweater. Even in July and August the evening air grows
chilly in the mountains. And bring a hat or sunscreen, as the
atmosphere is thinner at high altitudes. Glaciers can be blinding
in the sun, so be sure to bring sunglasses, especially for
high-altitude excursions. Good walking shoes or hiking boots are a
must, whether you’re tackling medieval cobblestones or
mountain trails.
Whereas smoking laws are fairly strict in North America, the right
to puff in France is upheld in many public places. A few hotel
properties or restaurants may be willing to accommodate your
preferences if you need a little breathing room by giving you a
table in an empty area.
There’s a good chance you might not find it there when you
get to baggage claim. Rarely, travelers are even ordered to check
the larger of their carry-ons at the gate and not given time to
transfer valuable items—which then go missing. Be sure your
expensive things are in your smallest carry-on.
If you’re driving down the interstate looking for a place to
refill your gas tank, avoid the exits that have just one or two
stations. You’ll save money at exits with three or more
stations, as competition helps drive down prices.
Most parks have been planned specifically to appeal to a broad
range of interests, so apart from wild rides there are gentle ones
that please young children, older travelers, and more sedate types.
Plus, many attractions in many theme parks are completely
accessible to people who use wheelchairs or who have other
disabilities.
If you lease your car, or have some other reason to avoid putting a
lot of miles on your own vehicle, you may want to consider using a
rental car for long road trips. A rental car with unlimited miles
can pay for itself if you drive it for a couple of thousand miles
instead of using your own vehicle.
If you are what you eat, then most Cape Codders would be a clam . .
. or maybe a lobster roll. It should go without saying that a land
named for a type of fish would abound with opportunities to sample
tasty seafood, and Cape Cod does not disappoint.
If you’re traveling with a laptop or other electronics that
must be X-rayed separately, make sure you can easily remove such
items from your bag without having to pull everything else out,
too. Packing neatly—and not overstuffing—also decreases
the time it takes to inspect your carry-on’s X-ray image. And
finally, having your bags searched at a security checkpoint will be
quicker and much more tolerable if your bag is tidy.
Fall is just around the corner, and it's time to hit the books!
Here's our selection of hot new titles that should be on every
traveler's back-to-school list.
In Germany, this tradition of spa going, whether for curing the
body or merely beautifying it, has been popular since Roman times.
More than 300 health resorts, most equipped for hot mineral, mud,
or brine treatments, are set within pleasant country areas or
historic communities. The word Bad before the name of a town
usually means it’s a spa destination.
Try to settle your dispute with the front-desk personnel, but if
you’re still not satisfied, ask to speak to the general
manager. Keep in mind that it’s the job of the front-desk
staff to solve problems without involving the general manager. Use
this knowledge to your advantage in disputes over small matters. If
your problem is a big one, though, cut to the chase and demand an
audience with a person in authority.
List each item as it’s packed, and stow the complete
itemization in the suitcase. The arrangement will help you repack
at the end of the trip, and give you the peace of mind of knowing
everything that came is going back home.
By far the most expensive places to buy snacks and toiletries when
traveling are the convenience stores attached to roadside gas
stations. Try to buy groceries at discount department or grocery
stores before you leave. Members of warehouse superstores, like
Costco and Sam’s Club, can save a huge amount by stocking up
on bulk foods and even toiletries at these places. Best bets
include bottled water, crackers, cookies, chips, trail mix, sports
bars, nuts, and breath mints, as well as aspirin and pain
relievers, antacid tablets, laundry detergent, and film. These
shopping clubs also usually have the cheapest gas prices around,
and many are just off major interstates or along other
well-traveled roads; before you hit the road, research the
locations of some on your route.
With over 50 miles of sandy shores—more than any other
Hawaiian island—Kaua‘i is a beach bum’s dream.
It’s easy to give in to "Hawai‘i time" and spend your
trip relaxing on the sand. Here are some of our top places to park
your beach towel.
It’s great fun for the savvy shopper. Do haggle—with
histrionics at the seller’s first asking price but with a
polite, positive attitude throughout, and never with finger
pointing (use your whole hand instead). That said, be prepared to
be grabbed, pushed, followed, stared at, and even have people
whispering offers in your ear. Personal space and privacy
aren’t valued in the same way as in the West, so the invasion
of them is common. Also, many Chinese love to touch foreign
children, so make sure any younger traveling companions are aware
of and prepared for this.
Fatourechi, the creative director and owner of Genetic Denim,
shares his knowledge of L.A. and beyond.
The Australian island, known for its otherworldly beauty and
back-of-beyond remoteness, has a new luxury hotel.
The question I always ask myself when I'm about to go on a trip -
where will I get coffee? - can now be answered online.
The excellent article on the Greenbrier resort in West Virginia,
“Nothing Boutique About It†(Aug.
15) by Dwight Garner, made an important omission.
With pent-up demand comes a new level of austerity as vacationers
search for frugal ways to get away.
There isn’t a lot of glamour to business
travel, but sometimes a trip can bring nice surprises while
you’re still on the plane.
A new Yellowstone visitor center looks out on Old Faithful as if
the geyser were the altar of a new form of cathedral.
A business trip can create an opportunity for a family vacation,
but it may require some careful planning
Boeing is conducting training at its sprawling Customer Experience
Center to show how it is preparing to put its much-delayed 787
Dreamliner airplane into service.
Tour operators said that they were confident they could reschedule
flights, but many customers feared they would not get promised
refunds.
This memoir of traveling Europe is not shy about reporting on sex,
drinking marathons or personal humiliation.
No money for Venice or Machu Picchu? Try hitting the literary hot
spots of Pottsville and Scranton.
Zacatecas, a colonial city north of Mexico City, has an arts scene
that suggests a population of more than its 120,000 residents.
A review of Las Margaritas, a typical, well-chosen, under-$15 hotel
room.
My trip has been made immeasurably more enjoyable, and measurably
cheaper, because I'm multilingual.
The Prince of Wales will be opening to the public his historic
Clarence House, all in the name of sustainable living.
American Airlines and its regional affiliate, American Eagle, are
offering a 20 percent discount to any customers affected by the
sudden shutdown of Mexico's largest airline, Mexicana.
"My husband and I are traveling to Venice in December for six days,
then heading on to Naples. Could you give me some tips to keep down
my expenses?"
Perched above Tokyo Station, this hotel tries hard to recreate a
resortlike feel, high above the city’s chaos.
Once breakfast is out of the way, it is always lunchtime and always
dinnertime — and sometimes teatime as well.
Credit cards, particularly magnetic striped American-issued ones,
aren’t as widely accepted abroad as ad
campaigns suggest.
An increasing number of hometown chefs are celebrating
Colorado’s farmers, ranchers, cheese makers and
foragers.
Low-key Sonoma County combines a freethinking tradition with
upscale shops, galleries and Old World restaurants.
State fairs still rumble to life each year, celebrating
half-forgotten American traditions and deep-fried everything.
Japanese whiskey has come a long way, but enthusiasts have to
search to find specialist bars offering domestic drams.
The discovery of an underground hot spring has turned Spreewald
into a spa destination.
We've gathered this selection of culinary hot spots from around the
globe -- not just the finest dining establishments but some of the
best local markets, cooking schools, seafood shacks, and vineyards.
One of you wants nightlife and scuba diving, the other wants to lie
in a hammock and eat ceviche every day. Your perfect destination is
the Caribbean, but how to choose just one island when there's so
much to choose from?
Ten perfect escapes from the waters off Rhode Island to the remote
South Pacific and on to the waters east of Africa.
From primitive chapels to gold-leafed basilicas, see the eleven
best religious buildings in Spain. Spain - Travel and Tourism -
Basilica - Chapel - Travel Guides
Ojai, a tiny town about an hour north of Los Angeles, brims with
farms, citrus groves, lavender fields, and 100-year-old olive
trees. Los Angeles - Ojai California - United States - Olive -
California
All-you-can-fly passes from JetBlue and Sun Country, plus what you
need to know about emergency medical evacuations. Sun Country
Airlines - JetBlue Airways - Health - Sun Country - Airline
Insider tips that save you time and money not only help you make
fast friends with Mickey, but keep you from getting taken for the
wrong kind of ride. Disneyland Paris - Disney - Recreation - Theme
Parks - Disneyland Resort
This Eat, Pray, Love-themed package includes six nights in Bali, a
spa treatment, and connections to the best-selling memoir. Bali -
Eat Pray Love - Indonesia - Asia - Travel
Stay at a Tuscan villa, book an Ireland fly-and-drive package, or
choose from three more deals in Costa Rica, New York City, and
California. Costa Rica - Central America - California - New York
City - Travel and Tourism
A traveler changes hotels after the Wi-Fi promised on the
Hotels.com website turns out to be incorrect. Should he be
compensated for the misleading hotel description? Hotels.com -
Website - Hotel - Travel and Tourism - Lodging
Everything you wanted to know about the history of cruise ports in
New York City, Seattle, San Diego, Tampa, and Galveston. San Diego
- Seattle - New York City - California - Counties
Nickelodeon-themed cruises aboard two Norwegian ships, a Cunard
sale, and more cruise discounts from top agencies. Cunard Line -
Cruise - Ship - Travel - Recreation
Traveling to the Caribbean in the summer or fall always sounds like
a good idea -- until you remember that hurricane season lasts from
June to November. Keep these 5 travel tips in mind before you book
that Caribbean beach vacation. Caribbean - Tropical cyclone -
Leeward Islands - National Hurricane Center - hurricane
Labor Day discounts from Frontier, a Brazil sale from American
Airlines, and why local carriers can save you money on inter-island
Hawaii flights. Hawaii - American Airlines - United States - Hawaii
Island - Travel
Spend autumn in London with this affordable vacation package, which
includes airfare and six nights' hotel. London - Hotel - England -
Travel and Tourism - Maps and Views
There are successful ways to complain, and then there are the
things you should never say to a travel company. Here are 5 tips on
what not to do. Travel - Recreation - Travel Agents - Magazines and
E-zines - Travel and Tourism
I’ve written before about my experience visiting the Leaning
Tower of Pisa, and even about how to avoid the lines by buying
tickets to climb the tower in advance. But what I haven’t
done is posted the most useful visitor’s information. So,
without further ado… Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower is
simply the bell tower for the [...]
Mobster undone by love of mamma’s cooking When the police are
on the hunt for suspected mobsters in Italy, there's no better spot
to stake out than Mamma's house. Why? Because sooner or later,
every Italian man comes back to Mamma's for the food. Such is the
case with one suspected member of the Camorra who [...]
If you’re as directionally-challenged as I am, the idea that
you’d need a “how to” article for getting lost
might seem a bit ludicrous. But hear me out. Venice, unlike most
other cities, gets better as you get lost-er. And because Venice is
both relatively small and almost always crowded, getting lost can
be a little [...]
Italian court throws out topless sunbathing complaint A mother of
two boys, aged 12 and 14, claimed that the sight of a topless
large-breasted woman applying suntan lotion at a beach near Rome
"troubled her sons." I can't help but think the boys would have
used a different word there. (via @michellefabio on Twitter) Jailed
Mobsters Sent [...]
When I’m at home during the summer months, I start each
Saturday at my local farmer’s market, and as long as my
favorite stand has strawberries I typically come home with several
containers. There are several stands at my local market that have
strawberries, but my favorite stand has one variety that no other
stand [...]
A travel podcasting and blogging friend of mine, Chris Christensen,
is the man behind the popular Amateur Traveler podcast – and
when he graciously offered to put together a cute Italy map with
links to all the Italy episodes from the Amateur Traveler, I
thought that sounded like a fine addition to WhyGo Italy. On each
[...]
As the soccer season in Italy is about to get started this weekend,
arguably the best soccer tournament anywhere – the Champions
League – has already begun. The Champions League for
2010-2011 has three Italian teams among the contenders (sadly, the
fourth Italian squad was eliminated in the playoff round). There
will be games held [...]
Unlike some of the great cities in the world, where the tourist
attractions are all concentrated in one or two specific and compact
areas so that – if you feel like it – you can hoof it
from one sight to the next without ever having to figure out the
public transportation system, Rome is [...]
There’s a lot of talk lately about the exact pizza place in
Naples where “Eat Pray Love” author Elizabeth Gilbert
(and consequently Julia Roberts, playing Gilbert in the “Eat
Pray Love” movie) had her transformative experience –
let’s call it a pizza-gasm. The Naples pizzeria featured in
“Eat Pray Love” is, as you may already know, [...]
Mushroom hunter “massacre” claims 18 lives in Italy
Okay, that title is clearly designed to draw you in, and it works
– but there isn't someone out killing mushroom hunters. It's
that mushroom hunters have gotten either careless or are trying to
be too stealthy for their own good (or a combination of both),
which has [...]
I received a phone call last night from a dear friend in Java
bellowing that she is going to lose all her money (Rupiah) in the
bank because the Bank of Indonesia governor stated there is scope
for a possible Rupiah denomination. This is mainly because of the
Rupiah’s performance against the US dollar o
[...]
I have this penchant for wandering around cemeteries and when we
were in Lombok recently I noticed a Chinese Cemetery not far from
Senggigi on the way to Ampenan. Located north of Jalan Pabean, this
extensive but pretty cemetery is a constant reminder to those
Chinese who suffered and died during the Suharto purge in [...]
Last month I talked about the directional temples on the island of
Bali, their importance and their significance to the Balinese. The
numerous facets of Balinese culture are truly amazing. These
temples are worth visiting even if it’s just
for the experience; even better if there is a temple celebration
going on. Besides the directional temples, [...]
One of the nicest temples you can visit and, one
that’s on the regular tourist track, is Pura
Luhur Uluwatu Temple. It is one of Bali’s six major temples
collectively known as Sad Kahyangan Jagat. This temple down on the
Bukit Peninsula is especially great to visit during the Galungan
festival [the most important event [...]
Indonesians celebrate the proclamation of independence from 350
years of Dutch colonial rule. Festivities abound in cities and
villages alike, organized by the government, neighbourhood
community associations and organizations.
‘Selemat Hari Raya
Kemerdekaan’ The Indonesian Declaration of
Independence was officially proclaimed at 10.00 a.m. sharp on
Friday, August 17, 1945. The declaration marked the start of the
[...]
For visitors to Bali one of the most varied areas in culture, arts
and antiquities is Central Bali. The area not only encompasses the
vibrant ‘art colony’ of Ubud and its
surrounding areas, it is an area rich in all the traveller would
want to see and experience on their visit to the island. Central
Bali [...]
At the moment Bali is buzzing with tourists and
it’s a great time to visit this beautiful
island. The weather is perfect and even better, the exchange rates
for most currencies is higher than it has been. Besides that,
Australians have a plethora of airlines vying for your bum on one
of their seats on [...]
Pura Taman Ayun was built in 1634 by the the Raja, I Gusti Agung
Anom. The kingdom of Mengwi was powerful enough to control large
parts of Badung, Tabanan and Gianyar from the first part of the
17th Century to the latter part of the 19th Century. The temple is
surrounded by a moat and [...]
Much has been said in recent months [mostly complaints] about the
Immigration desks at Ngurah Rai International Airport and their
lack of ‘speed’ in
processing newly arrived tourists. Despite assurance from the
immigration department that this process would be vastly improved,
as yet, it still remains the same. Getting excited upon arriving in
Bali and looking [...]
When I first heard about this klenteng or Chinese temple I became
excited at the prospect of viewing a Chinese temple I have yet to
visit already having seen all on the island of Bali. My aspirations
were soon dashed when we ended up at a small temple in Denpasar
down by the river. It [...]
The White Heather Hotel is a great place to stay when visiting the
rugged, rustic Isle of Skye. It is well located near the Skye
Bridge, offers good value, and is well run. And the breakfast is
wonderful.Contributor: Nancy MillerPublished: Aug 16, 2010
These days, many upscale hotels and resorts offer their own lines
of luxury home items that you can either buy while you're at the
establishment, or order later through their online stores. Here's a
quick look at some of the items you can buy.Contributor: Kathryn
(Kathy) McKenzie NicholsPublished: Aug 16, 2010
The Hermitage Hotel is a nine story brick building that has been
around ever since 1910.Contributor: TyeshiaPublished: Aug 16, 2010
The Russell Court Hotel is a nice hotel if you're interested in
partying all night. For sleeping, I'd recommend looking
elsewhere!Contributor: Maura NicholsonPublished: Aug 16, 2010
When you're going to another state or a foreign country for a short
business trip, it's perfectly acceptable to have impersonal hotel
accommodations so that you can be assured of utmost
comfort.Contributor: Max TrentonPublished: Aug 18, 2010
Who would think of staying in a jail voluntarily, unless it is now
a luxurious Boston hotel. The Liberty Hotel, located in Boston's
historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, was formerly a jail.Contributor:
Charles FredeenPublished: Aug 18, 2010
Many inexperienced individuals, when dealing with hotels and their
banquet/ food and beverage department, falsely believe that there
is no urgency to agreeing to terms. In the last three decades, I've
witnessed how costly this can be.Contributor: Richard
BrodyPublished: Aug 18, 2010
CCRA Travel Solutions is accepting enrollment & re-enrollment
applications for its 2011 Hotel Negotiated Rate Program. In
addition to gaining access to 3 channels for the price of 1, hotels
will also benefit from 2 new, free marketing programs.Contributor:
Carly RedgersPublished: Aug 18, 2010
Reconnect with your customers through your custom made postcards
designs! Make them feel special and remembered by sending postcards
out for occasions worth celebrating.Contributor: Mina
PalenciaPublished: Aug 18, 2010
Be prepared when checking into a hotel and follow these tips for
quick and easy check-in when you arrive.Contributor: Abby
WillowPublished: Aug 19, 2010
There are many magazine articles stating that hotels will lower
their prices for you if you just ask. Learn the truth and how to
REALLY get a cheaper stay.Contributor: Abby WillowPublished: Aug
19, 2010
When staying at a hotel, it is important to know what your credit
or debit card is being used for. Before you hand over your card,
find out what it may or may not be used for.Contributor: Abby
WillowPublished: Aug 19, 2010
Upscale La Jolla attracts visitors to the San Diego area who want
the best on a weekend getaway. Why not stay at the #1-rated hotel
in the area - a boutique hotel at reasonable prices.Contributor:
Sandra EssaryPublished: Aug 20, 2010
This pet friendly motel offers convenience and amenities. The
indoor corridor and friendly staff made our stay pleasant and
welcoming.Contributor: Gayle CrabtreePublished: Aug 20, 2010
The Red Roof Inn is one of the cheapest hotels in the Pensacola
area. In this review I discuss the pros and cons of this hotel, as
well as why you may be better off staying somewhere
else.Contributor: Leanne CPublished: Aug 21, 2010
This article will provide information on Denver's historic and
famous Brown Palace Hotel and Spa. Enjoy this Forbes 4 star and AAA
4 diamond rated hotel and all it's amenities. Listed Top 500 World
Hotels.Contributor: Veronica ReynoldsPublished: Aug 23, 2010
They flew planes into the Twin Towers in NY and now extreme
Islamists have come up with a new way to kill in
Somali.Contributor: Radell HunterPublished: Aug 24, 2010
To get the best possible service (and often times price) here are
the definite don'ts when you are checking in.Contributor: Abby
WillowPublished: Aug 24, 2010
After watching a show on surviving in the wilderness, I realized my
best hope for staying alive is staying indoors.Contributor: Donna
CavanaghPublished: Aug 24, 2010
If you're off to the Emerald Isle, consider checking out this
diamond in the rough.Contributor: Orrin P. FremontPublished: Aug
24, 2010
Louisville's 21c Museum Hotel recently announced that it plans to
build boutique hotels in three additional locations, including one
in the Northwest Arkansas community of Bentonville.Contributor: Kay
MathewsPublished: Aug 24, 2010
Things to do to ensure you have the best room, regardless of which
hotel you stay in.Contributor: Sid HattangadiPublished: Aug 25,
2010
Davenport Hotel restored to its former glory.Contributor: Jo
AdamsonPublished: Aug 26, 2010
Quality accommodations at an affordable price, what more can you
ask for?Contributor: Mazy KellerPublished: Aug 26, 2010
On a last minute trip to Albuquerque, New Mexico, this hotel
exceeded most of my expectations. Here is why...Contributor: J
LissPublished: Aug 26, 2010
Sometimes you just feel lost and without hope...Contributor: Jennie
CamilePublished: Aug 26, 2010
Review of the hostel Hotel Villa Santa Elena in Varapaz
GuatemalaContributor: Chris WarePublished: Aug 26, 2010
This review of the Toluca Hotel One in Toluca Mexico describes the
amenities and service of this hotel that is close to the Toluca
International Airport and other important locations.Contributor:
Lori FranksPublished: Aug 27, 2010
Bally's in Tunica, Mississippi is the place to stay while in the
Tunica area.Contributor: Mazy KellerPublished: Aug 30, 2010
There is a nationwide epidemic of bed bug infestations. You need to
prevent the carrying of bedbugs to your home by inspection of your
hotel room and taking commonsense precautions even if no bed bugs
are found.Contributor: Stewart LodgePublished: Aug 30, 2010
By: Gizelle Lau, TripAtlas.com It’s the picture of a perfect
Mediterranean getaway – but on a recent visit to Miami, I
discovered that there’s much more to this island than just
quiet beaches and luxury villas. Located just a stone’s throw
from South Beach in Miami, Fisher Island is not only one of the
most [...]
by Carmen Magtibay, from the Shirts-And-Travel Online Store A trip
to San Diego can both be fun and easy on the budget.Â
For vacationers who do not want to spend a lot of money on theme or
animal parks, below are seven alternatives to consider:
1. Balboa Park A 1,200 acre urban cultural park near
[...]
Please welcome guest blogger, Angelina Khoo, from
www.makingthesamedifference.blogspot.com I’m still scratching
my head to how I could go live in a country where people have so
little can produce food that brings my tastebuds to life. In Buenos
Aires, I fell in love with foods that I am not usually into in
North America. When [...]
Please welcome today’s guest blogger, Marcelo, from
wanderingtrader.com Sicily has forever been in turmoil, occupied by
great empires throughout time. Every culture that has
ruled Italy has left its mark. When you look around
you can see the detail in every city that leaves traces of the
ancient civilizations that once ruled the important trade [...]
You stapled a co-worker to the side of your cubical wall for
drinking the last cup of coffee without brewing a new pot. The last
in-flight movie you watched was Jurassic Park. You suddenly realize
that you’ve been at your desk for more than
three hours, without any recollection of waking up, your 78 minute
[...]
