This year’s MTV Spring Break in Las Vegas was one for the record books. Check out this e

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sive interview with Wiz Khalifa at the beautiful Palms Resort and Casino.

MTV plays host for thousands of college students as it brings its official Spring Break bash to Las Vegas for the first time to the Palms Casino Resort March 6 – 9. MTV kicked off Spring Break at the Palms with explosive pool-side performances by DJ Pauly D from “Jersey Shore,” Snoop and Wiz Khalifa. Ne-Yo shocked the crowd and joined Pitbull on stage for a surprise appearance and performance.

Thanks to Logitech, we now have the video surveillance technology to be able to monitor what goes on at our homes while away. How you may ask? Easy, through an app on your phone! Amazingly enough, Logitech is able to sync cameras around your home to your mobile device through a proprietary application. Whether you’ve got a monitor on your safe, or your beautiful home garden. You’ll be able to know everything that’s going on while you’re away.

For the parents out there, worried that there kids may be throwing the party of the century while their away, should fear no more. Just imagine if Ferris Bueller’s parents had this technology!

As we continue to move towards more innovation in electronics, technology and surveillance, it’s nice to know that everyone will be a little more safer in the future.

Imagine sinking into a plush massag

ing chair, flipping a handy switch that’s within easy reach, and being carried away on a sweet symphony of sound that surrounds you in a cocoon of quality. Even better, this magical room that could make any audiophile weep with joy can accompany you wherever you go.

Now, imagine you own this room. Think that this magical place could only be located in Fantasyland? Hardly. Turn off your imagination and start your engines, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to your new Hyundai Equus, taking not only the luxury car market by storm but also the entertainment world.

Your passengers will appreciate the convenient reading lights that are positioned at perfect angles so as not to blind the driver, and your backseat drivers will be so distracted by the DVD player that they’ll completely forget to add their “helpful” comments to your driving. The only thing that could make the Equus more entertainment-friendly was if there were a DVD player up front for the driver, but nobody’s been able to develop a way to enjoy a movie and drive safely as of yet, so this feature had to fall by the wayside.

It should go without saying at this point, but we like to reiterate for emphasis: if you suddenly develop a strong desire to read the owner’s manual for your Equus, you’ll find it neatly saved and ready for your perusal in the iPad that comes complete with the car. If you’re looking for the very apex of entertainment wrapped up in a luxury class car package, what could be more purposeful than an iPad?

In short, for the discriminating customer who’s looking for not only the best in luxury car living, but also for a machine that can deliver entertainment as well as it can deliver style and performance, the Hyundai Equus is the sure path to automobile-driven happiness.

Our friends from TravelInsurance.orgare helping our readers beware of the top pickpock

eting cities of the world. If you’re planning on traveling to any of these cities in the near future, be sure to pay special attention to the tips provided below.

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The company, Olialia (pronounced “Ooh-la-la”) plans to entice tourists by employing only blondes and offering direct flights to the island on planes crewed by, surprise-surprise, more blondes. The company is already run and staffed by blonde women, and has a variety of business interests, from selling food products to operating a limo service to running parties at popular Lithuanian nightclubs.

Plans for the exclusive resort have been met with much criticism, though, which is to be expected. A news story on the planned resort published in September in Minivan News, an independent news site for the Maldives, generated a numerous comments from readers.

“This sounds more like Hitler’s Nazi super racial thing,” wrote one reader identified as Ali. “I suppose those Maldivians who work there will be wearing blond wigs and blue contact lens too.”

“If indeed this racist and sexist idea is for real, I hope it is killed off right away,” wrote Khadheeja. “There is so much we can tolerate in the name of tourism.”

Should the proposal for the “Island of Blondes” gets the go-ahead, the resort could open as soon as 2015. Olialia’s managing director, Giedre Pukiene, said that she wants to break the stereotype that blonde women are less intelligent. “Our girls are very smart and they have degrees,” she said. “All of them want to do something with their lives. They have lots of business ideas.” Yeah, so do most Playboy bunnies.

The Maldives is a group of more than 1,000 islands in the Indian Ocean. About 200 are inhabited. Personally, I don’t see what the big deal is. There’s nothing wrong with an “Island of Blondes,” but there has to be balance in the force. Following that there should be an “Island of Brunettes, Redheads, Moms, Baldies, and Midgets.” Each with their own separate island, of course. These days, you got to do what it takes to stay on top and attract customers. Having an island full of blonde women is a genius idea, and no, don’t even try and play the race card. You can play the fantasy card, that’s okay. I’ll buy that, since chances are if this whole thing happens, the bulk of the customers are going to be single men looking for a good time, and finding that when they get there, Lithuanians are no different from blonde women anywhere else in the world. They know they’re hot, but you ain’t getting any.

tel employees to a strange phenomenon that is happening at the new Vdara Hotel & Spa in Vegas, but guests aren’t laughing.

The hotel, owned by MGM Resorts International, magnifies and reflects the sun’s rays onto an area of the pool, which causes temperatures to rise to the point where they can melt plastic cups, and singe human hair.

“My head was steaming hot. In fact, my hair felt like it was burning … I could actually smell my hair burning,” said Bill Pintas to NBCs Today Show, a recent guest to the Vdara and Chicago lawyer and businessman.

The design flaw in the massive glass skyscraper causes the suns rays to bounce off the curved glass and heat up a 10-by-15-foot area of the pool deck. Although architectures of the hotel foresaw this blunder, they thought they solved it by placing a high-tech film on the glass windows. They were wrong. Currently the area is heated for 90-minutes around noon, and until they can come up with a permanent solution to the problem, the hotel will place thick umbrella’s, shade structures, or maybe even some large plants to shade the area. They’re not quite sure yet.

“The sun is constantly moving, not only across the sky during the day, but it changes with the seasons,” said Gordon Absher, a spokesman for MGM. “We’re dealing with a moving target.”

The Vdara opened in December of 2009, so in their defense this was the first summer for them to recognize the problem, but something tells me that this little “death ray” of theirs isn’t exactly going to be a selling feature. Sure it’s only on a small portion of the pool deck and for a limited time, but rectifying the problem with large plants doesn’t do much to instill my faith in the customer service at the Vdara. I mean, what are they going to do if I find a cockroach in my room? Put a glass over it and say, “Problem solved?”

I’m sure it’s a lovely hotel, but for my next trip to Las Vegas, I won’t be staying at the Vdara Hotel & Spa. I’ll stick with blue chips like the MGM Grand or Bellagio, thank you very much.

The Consumer Travel Alliance, Business Travel Coalition and American Society of Travel Agents on Thursday delivered a petition to the Transportation Department with 50,000 signatures from consumers who want airlines to spell out fees more clearly. 50,000? That’s something major support for a government ruling. Not only does the petition require airlines to disclose baggage and other fees, but it also calls for refunds of fees and reimbursement for expenses when bags are lost or not delivered on time. Airlines would also have to give notice when baggage fees are increased, and notify passengers buying tickets whether they must pay to check up to two bags.

The travel industries efforts began two weeks ago with the “Mad as Hell About Hidden Fees” petition, and claims that fees can boost ticket price by 26 percent when one bag is checked, and by 54 percent when a passenger checks two bags and chooses a seat with extra legroom. 54 percent for extra legroom? That’s outrageous, but we pay it; often with no questions asked.

The group wants all travel outlets to have the information on fees and fares, including third-party websites like Expedia and Orbitz. “Airlines should be able make a fair profit and set fares and fees that allow them to do so, as long as travelers can see and compare all of those fees in advance,” said Paul Ruden of the American Society of Travel Agents.

With airlines in the second quarter making $893 million on baggage fees, $594 million from reservation change fees, and $618 million from charges for things like frequent-flier sales and transporting pets, it only makes sense that airlines start displaying these fees so people know what they are getting into before they buy. In today’s economy it sometimes feels like they are taking advantage of the consumer rather than helping them save money. With fees prominently displayed, it will allow for smarter shopping, and the possibility of you keeping a few dollars in your pocket.

golf-getaway to South Carolina? Then look no further than ideeli.com, the United States’ fastest growing, members-only online shopping site, who recently announced an addition of a dedicated travel category to its growing e-commerce platform. Couple that with two high profile travel executives in the way of Peter Manice and Andrew Bradick to spearhead the initiative, and you’ve got a match made in heaven for ideeli’s “Travel Tuesdays.”

“Travel is an essential component of our members’ ‘ideel’ lifestyle,” says Paul Hurley, CEO and founder of ideeli. “We are excited to now offer such carefully vetted and editorially-driven travel experiences on a regular basis. “

Those travel experiences will bring ideeli’s nearly three million members a selection of curated weekly travel offers at privileged prices of between 30% and 60% off. Not a bad deal at all. With a focus on exclusive pricing at luxury and boutique properties worldwide, ideeli will augment these travel experiences by including members-only perks such as complimentary room upgrades, spa and restaurant credits, and other amenity packages. New travel offers will be featured every Tuesday, and each sale will run for up to six days or until sold out, so you have to be one of the early birds if you want to get in on some these great deals ideeli is offering.

For example, they’ve already had a group-buy deal on ideelACCESS which included $50 for a $100 credit toward any of the 600+ properties in the Mr. and Mrs. Smith luxury hotel network, exclusive packages to Lake Austin Spa (Texas), The Venetian (Las Vegas) and Cabo Azul (Mexico), and a giveaway to a 4-night stay at the Banyan Tree Mayakoba, a 5-star star property in Playa del Carmen valued at up to $4500.

To celebrate the new Travel Tuesdays, ideeli is hosting a “Putter’s Paradise Giveaway” that includes a two-night stay at The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, a 5-star oceanfront hotel and spa in South Carolina.

“We’ve developed travel products that not only offer value and excitement for our members, but also a series of effective solutions for the travel industry,” says Peter Manice. “By utilizing our many tools for member engagement – from flash sales to giveaways to group buy events – travel suppliers can deliver brand-friendly content and drive traffic to their core channels, all while generating incremental booking activity from our audience of nearly three million engaged and affluent members.”

ing worse than coming back from vacation with a cold (maybe drinking the water in Mexico, but that’s for another time). With the holiday season creeping up on us, and with the constant change in the weather, our bodies are about to be susceptible to everything from the common cold to the flu. Health risks are a big factor when traveling, and no matter what you do there always seems to be something you come down with, right? Thankfully the good folks at USANA Health Sciences have come up with a “Healthy Travel Pack” that will help you stave off disease while promoting a healthy immune system at the same time.

USANA Health Sciences is the world’s leader in leader in health and nutrition, and their Healthy Travel Pack includes products that are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, leading to not only a healthy immune system, but digestive track, and stress reduction; and we all know how much stress traveling can cause, right?

The Healthy Travel Pack includes such products as Hepacil DTX, which is the world’s first bi-layered tablet developed by Nutritional Hybrid Technology, and used to promote healthy liver function and protection again oxidative stress. Healthy liver function is a must, especially around the holidays when Thanksgiving and Christmas causes us to sometimes drink alcohol a little more than we normally would. Let’s face it, nothing goes better with a nice turkey dinner than a good bottle of wine, and having a healthy liver will help to prevent some of the after affects your body might feel.

Also included in USANA’s Healthy Travel Pack are probiotics which boost the immune system and promote a healthy digestive system. Fibergy Plus, a gluten, dairy and soy free blend that contains 12 grams of dietary fiber, and promotes good digestive health as well as reduces risk of heart disease; and digestive enzymes, which helps relieve occasional upset stomach, indigestion, heartburn, gas, and bloating after eating a large meal. Large meal? Oh yeah, it must be coming up on Thanksgiving.

No matter where you’re going to be traveling to this upcoming holiday season, taking care of your health should be your number one priority. Whether you’re jetsetting across the globe, or driving across the country to visit your parents, the holiday travel season leaves you wide open to all sorts of diseases. Having a USANA Healthy Travel Pack will give you all the stuff you need to keep your immune system high, so you don’t have to worry about the traveling blues.

a top

of the line hotel, this exotic beach locale promises a very special vacation to its guests.

Ideal for leisure or business travelers, the Canary Hotel boasts of being the only luxury boutique spot to offer full service to its guests in downtown Santa Barbara. So where does the name come from? Straight from the Canary Islands, whose natural beauty served as the main inspiration in the design of the hotel after the hotel group traveled to the Islands in search of a new theme for its next destination. Peace and tranquility is what you can expect when you stay at the Canary Hotel — it’s been built right into the name of the place.

The hotel combines the look of classic Spanish architecture and interior design with a unique flair for the Moroccan. Rooms are adorned with four post beds, native paintings on the walls, hardwood floors underfoot and the comforts of home all around, like an IPod dock or wireless Internet. The beautiful beaches of Santa Barbara’s coastline are just a relaxing walk away, about a mile from the Canary Hotel. And the sun shines all year long, so take the vacation any month in the calendar and enjoy a romantic beach getaway. The hotel also features the impeccable dining available in the local favorite Coast Restaurant and Bar, when guests get hungry and don’t want to go far for an amazing meal.

Canary Hotel Santa Barbara
31 West Carrillo
Santa Barbara, California 93101
Phone 805.884.0300

(Image Via: Canary Hotel)

or even learn about the solar system, all for free at more than 1,300 museums across the country as Smithsonian Media sponsors “Museum Day.”

Participating museums include Chicago’s Alder Planetarium and the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Hammond Museum in North Salem, and the Autry National Center in Los Angeles, just to name a few. All you have to do is go to Smithsonianmag.com and print out your tickets to get into your select museum for free. While Museum Day is good for two people per household (the rest have to pay), it is a great way to spend time with the kids, and learn about history and culture at the same time.

For example, one of the participating venues includes the Savannah, Georgia birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low. The home saw the birth of Low in 1860, and she later went on to start the Girl Scouts in 1912. It is one of Savannah’s most visited historic attractions, and visitors can get in for free this Saturday to see a little piece of American history.

Last year Museum Day saw more than 300,000 people visit the more the 1,300 participating venues, and with the economy being the way it is these days, and with people looking for inexpensive entertainment for the family, expect an even bigger turnout this year. Nothing says inexpensive like “free.”

Not only is Museum Day a good time to perhaps travel to different locations across your state, but it’s also a great way to learn about some of your local history as well.

“I have encountered many local residents that, for various reasons, have never visited the Ava Gardner Museum. With the free admission on Museum Day, our community will be given the opportunity to discover not only the history of a remarkable woman, but also realize the true asset Johnston County has in the Ava Gardner Museum,” said Jessica Meadows, Executive Director of the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield, North Carolina.

There’s less than a week left to plan for Museum Day, so start jotting down all the places you’re going to visit. Remember, to find a museum near you and to print out your free passes, visit Smithsonianmag.com for all the information you need to get started on Museum Day 2010.

Known as the largest People’s Fair in the world, Oktoberfest, in Munich attracts six to seven million people a year, who consume over one million gallons of beer! Munich has been celebrating Oktoberfest since 1810 when Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildurghausen. This year is the 200th anniversary of Oktoberfest in Munich and is expected to be the largest (and the craziest) to date.

These are 5 things you can’t miss in Munich during Oktoberfest:

5. Explore Marienplatz

Known as the heart of Munich, Marienplatz is a large open square and a great place to sight-see, shop, eat and of course relax and drink beer in one of the endless outdoor venues. You can find the Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall, and Peterskirche, the oldest church, in the area here.
Rent a cruiser bike and this is a great spot to start your exploration of the rest of Munich’s city centre.

4. Visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle

Located near Hohenschwangau and Füssen in southwest Bavaria, outside Munich, Neuschwanstein Castle is a great place to view the Bavarian countryside and gawk at the Disney-like wonder. Crowds are drawn to the amazing views, majestic architecture (it is the most photographed building in Munich), mysterious death of the commissioner “Mad King Ludwig” and the following created by the 60 million people who have visited it since 1886.

3. Check out the English Garden

Even bigger then NYC’s Central Park, the English Garden provides an oasis away from the none-stop activity of Oktoberfest. But don’t worry, you can still get a beer! Stop at the Chinese Tower and enjoy live outdoor music and a cold brew at this favorite outdoor beer garden. Make sure to check out the river surfers on your way back to the Oktoberfest grounds.

2. Eat at a traditional Bavarian restaurant

A favorite is the half chicken from one of the beertents. Maybe anything taste good after two liters of beer… but this is the juiciest chicken you will ever eat! Also, make sure not to miss the giant pretzels, Schneiders Aventinusbierbtratl (Schneider’s Beer Roast), Portion Schweinshaxe (Port Knuckle) and of course Wiener Schnitzel.

1. Check out the Beertents

The beertents on the Oktoberest grounds are the number one thing that cannot be missed in Munich during Oktobferfest! Check out this site for a description of the 15 beertents:
http://www.oktoberfesttours.com/beer_tents.html. Among the best and most well known, these are recommend: Hippodrum seating over 4000 people and it has some of the best entertainment on the Oktoberfest grounds, Hofbräu Festzelt, sister tent to the famous Hofbräuhaus in Marienplatz is pure craziness, and the only beer tent at Oktoberfest that will serve you a cold beer without being seated, and of course Schottenhamel which seats over 10, 000 people and is the location of the Official Tapping of the Keg on Opening Day.

To get the most out of the beer tents, be sure to learn the words to Ein Prosit. When everyone in the beertent stands on their bench and belts out the words to Ein Prosit, you will want to sing along! Ein Prosit ein Prosit gemüdlichkeit, Ein Prosit ein Prosit gemütlichkeit… einz, zwei, drei, suffa! It means: A toast, a toast, that cosy feeling… A toast, a toast, good vibes…one, two, three chug it down!

Be sure to dress like a local! While Dirnlds and Leferhosen can be expensive, there are discount and second stores all over Munich! Surprisingly the airport stand (outside arrivals in terminal 2) has great deals (Dirndls for 49 Euro). Also check out the street across from the Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) for more discount shops.

Wondering how to fit it all in? Can’t imagine planning it all? Ludus Tours, STA travel and a ton of other companies offer trips that include everything mentioned above in their Oktoberfest tours!

Arrive in Munich on Friday, explore Marienplatz, the City Centre, and English Garden by bike, enjoy authentic German food at a local restaurant, visit Neuschwanstein Castle, and enjoy the craziness of a beertent all in time to head home Monday!
The tours are great for individuals, families, and corporate groups. 24-7 Ludus Guide assistance is included! For an unforgettable experience check out Ludus Tours!

Ludus Guides at a Traditional Bavarian Restaurant

(Post Via Victoria Whyte: For more information e-mail Victoria)

Pushing Mediterranean style in every detail, the Korakia Pensione offers travelers a getaway from the real world like no other. According to their literature, the hotel combines “the silhouette of Tangier with a whisper of the Mediterranean.” In a word, mesmerizing. Breakfasts are fully cooked for guests and complimentary everyday. That is where the retreat into heaven begins in Palm Springs. And guests will dine in the Moroccan courtyard that highlights the style and character of the hotel.

Of course as with all Palm Springs hotels, the pool is also complimentary, but this getaway location offers yoga and a full spa suite as well. For the bookish looking to unwind, there is a host of vintage books in the Korakia Pensione library lounge. And for the game-inspired, why not play a game of bocce or head into downtown Palm Springs for some furniture or antique shopping. For those inclined to combine a little bit of exercise with their vacation, the hotel offers free bicycles for you to take that trip into downtown. Moroccan tea is offered every afternoon as you return to your hotel after a jaunt about town in the day, and the pools are lit and heated at night for you unwind even further after a long hard day relaxing. Guests will be surprised with the detail here — poolside loungers at night will be treated to classic or foreign films being screened outdoors as you frolic in the heated water.

Awards? Sure, those too. Forbes Traveler has named this hotel, officially, among the “Sexiest Hotels in America.”

Korakia Pensione
257 S. Patencio Road
Palm Springs, California 92262
Phone: 760.864.6411

(Image Via: Korakia Pensione)

Bears, wolves, and cougars call the woods around this trail home. Yet adventurers come from all over the world to hike the 48-mile route, which was built decades ago as a seaside trail to aid troubled ships that came in from the fickle Pacific waters offshore.

Mount Huashan Trail, China

With one mistake on the Mount Huashan trail, you will certainly fall to your death. This treacherous mountain trail, near Huayin, is used by wandering monks, Chinese students on vacation, and tourists alike. Ladders, cables, ledges, temples atop ridgelines, and impossible-looking staircases cut into rock define this unique and dangerous route.

Rover’s Run, Anchorage, AK

According to the Alaska Fish and Game department, a “few dozen” brown bears roam the area around Rover’s Run, a popular mountain-biking trail in the outskirts of Anchorage.

Devil’s Path, Catskills, NY

Said to be the toughest hiking trail in the East, this east-to-west voyage in the Catskill Mountains of New York traverses the spine of the mountain range an is just two hours north of Manhattan.

Peek-a-boo Gulch, Utah

Peek-a-boo Gulch is a slot canyon that cuts through sandstone bedrock as a narrow slit. Walls squeeze in on both sides. Hikers face interlinked potholes, tunnels, drops, fins of rock, and arches of stone silhouetted on blue sky.

Route up Pacaya Volcano, Guatemala

A trek uphill to see steam vents and rivers of lava on Guatemala’s Pacaya Volcano is a popular tourist hike, since it’s near Guatemala City. But after a shower of volcanic rock killed a reporter this spring, Pacaya National Park closed the trail.

Kokoda Track, Papua New Guinea

For various tragic reasons, four hikers died in separate incidents on the Kokoda Track during the 2009 trekking season. The trail runs for 60 extremely remote miles overland through Papua New Guinea’s Owen Stanley Mountain Range, climbing to more than 7,000 feet. A journey on the trail—which was the site of a World War II battle between Japanese and Australian forces—takes 4 to 10 days for most groups.

El Caminito del Rey, Spain

this cliffy route near Málaga has been closed for years. But it remains one of the world’s most famous dangerous paths. Built into the cliffs above a narrow river gorge in the district of Málaga, the El Caminito del Rey path was originally for hydroelectric power plant workers. It has three-foot-wide walkways hundreds of feet off the ground. Concrete sections have collapsed, leaving steel beams and rotting ledges exposed. Old cables bolted to the cliff provide some grip as trespassing hikers make their way along the route.

The secret to a great Portland experience is to tap into the purity of the friendly vibe that the city has to offer. Staying at a place like the Bluebird Guesthouse will jumpstart that effort, landing you squarely in the center of one of the city’s best neighborhoods for the cool factor, without sacrificing any of the warmth that Portlanders are so proud of.

Located in the Division neighborhood in the Southeast, you’ll be walking distance from many of the city’s best bars and restaurants, and just blocks away from other local shopping and eating streets, including Hawthorne, Belmont and Stark. And because Portland is so reasonably sized and well laid-out in terms of transportation, a trip into downtown is only going to be about fifteen minutes away by car, and just a little bit farther on a bike.

The Bluebird features just a modest seven guest rooms, all of which are seated on the grounds of an original and charming 1910 Arts & Crafts House. There, you’ll find much of the original flavor of the architecture and grounds, effortlessly mixed in with vintage furniture and a pleasing palette of colors. There is an available kitchen for guests to prepare meals in, and a basic continental breakfast is offered to guests each morning. Rooms also include free wi-fi and Internet access, free street parking all day long, laundry and plenty of informational material on the city, and all there is to do on your stay in Portland.

Bluebird Guest House
bluebird guesthouse | 3517 se division st. | portland, oregon 97202
503.238.4333 | toll free 866.717.4333

(Image via: Bluebird Guest House)

The Breakfast: Decadent Greek Fare with views over the Aegean Sea.

The Bed: Three gorgeous, airy rooms at the 1864-built Captain’s House are set high up on a hill in the village of Oia, at the northern tip of Santorini.

Blackberry Farm, Tennessee

The Breakfast: Southern food from the soul grown right on property at this 4,200-acre Smoky Mountain farm estate.

The Bed: Over-looking mist-shrouded ridges and the green, rolling foothills of the Smoky Mountains, you will swear you have been magically transported to Little House on the Prairie

Hôtel Le Meurice, Paris

The Breakfast: Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno’s romantic breakfast for two at Le Meurice includes a bottle of pink champagne Veuve Clicquot, a selection of luscious house-made pastries C’est Magnifique!

The Bed: Set in an elegant 18th-century building across from Paris’s famed Tuileries gardens and even more vaunted Louvre, have hosted historic A-listers ranging from Orson Welles to Queen Victoria.

Post Ranch Inn, California

The Breakfast: At your treetop or cliffside room overlooking the Pacific, your breakfast table is set up on your private balcony. Chef Craig Von Foerster’s morning menu includes freshly baked scones paired with local black-sage honey and blackberry-lavender jam, orange-brioche cinnamon rolls, and eggs Benedict with braised slab bacon and local chanterelles.

The Bed: The Bed: Set on a 1,200-foot cliff right over the roar and whip of the Pacific, the Post Ranch Inn’s 39 rooms epitomize luxe rusticity.

Soho House, New York City

The Breakfast The must try: The Arnold Bennett Omelette—for which Ferguson pairs slightly smoked haddock with whipped cream, eggs, and hollandaise sauce, all gratinated under a grill until it’s golden brown.

The Bed: The 24 rooms in this hotel, set in Manhattan’s chic Meatpacking District, share a building with an exclusive members-only club, and are famously hard to come by.


Marqués de Riscal, Spain

The Breakfast: Right in the heart of the Rioja wine region, every meal even breakfast is infused by local viticulture.This means starting the morning with a glass of Laurent-Perrier Alexandra Rosé 1997 Champagne and a selection of Beluga and sturgeon caviar.

The Bed: Built on the grounds of a 3,200-acre winery that’s been in operation since 1858, the Marqués de Riscal’s curving, asymmetrical, titanium-paneled building was created in 2006 by architect Frank Gehry.

Described in a word as “charming,” the Hotel Vintage Park was built in the very center of downtown Seattle, and features a unique dedication in style and name to each room in the hotel. Celebrating the state of Washington’s wine country, every room has been dedicated to a local vineyard or winery, creating an ambiance of local culture and flavor, uniquely Seattle and sure to make your stay a special one.

Boasting a recent inclusion on “Travel + Leisure’s ‘Best 500 Hotels in the World’” list, Seattle’s Hotel Vintage Park makes its home in the financial district of the city, offering radiant views of the cityscape and jaunts out to shopping and retail all within a few blocks. If you’re in town for business and looking for a bump up in luxury for your stay, then this might be the place, considering Hotel Vintage Park is located near the Washington State Convention and Trade Center. In town for theater or other leisure activities? You’ll be close to that too, just blocks away from the 5th Avenue Theater.

The Hotel Vintage Park is home to Tulio, a restaurant and dining experience distinguished by its Zagat rating, and offering private dining for special events like weddings or retirement parties. Every room comes included with high speed Internet access, free to special Loyalty members. In the evenings, enjoy specially hosted wine hour, featuring select wines that emanate from the state of Washington. Additionally, for the eco-conscious, the hotel is also Green Seal Silver Certified for Seattle, Washington.

HOTEL VINTAGE PARK
1100 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
Reservations: (800) 853-3914

(Image via: Hotel Vintage Park)

While there are over 100 destinations to choose from — ranging all across the Americas (North and South) — all of which offer excellent deals, we here at the Adventure Worthy offices feel we’d be remiss if we didn’t recommend at least one hotel for our readers. So, here’s what caught our eye: a warm, tropical stay at the all-inclusive Allegro Cozumel in, well, Cozumel, Mexico. Regular price? $221. Special Hotels.com Labor Day weekend price? $106. And it’s on the beach! Not bad.

To qualify all you need to do is book your stay through Hotels.com by September 6. Pretty simple. For a full list of participating hotels, simply click on through.

Below are some of our favorite photographs of Maho Beach captured by photographer Thomas Prior.

(To see all the images check out: MyModernMet, Photos Via: Thomas Prior)

Specializing in a melange of Moroccan and French fare, Cafe Gitane’s unique dishes are not to be missed. However the real joy in this cozy cafe is sipping a glass of bordeaux or shot of espresso while sitting at one of the sidewalk tables and ogling the fashionista traffic.

La Esquina, Soho

This little gem has more to offer than overpriced tacos. Ask the bouncer guarding the kitchen to go downstairs and you will be pleased to find a dimly light dungeon that looks like something straight out of eyes wide shut. Be sure to bring your dancing shoes for this trip.

Strawberry Fields, Central Park

Strawberry Fields is a landscaped section in Central Park dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. It is named after the song “Strawberry Fields Forever”. This historical Conservancy is a NYC must see. While you’re there, take in the sights and sounds of the rest of the park. This detour is a nice break from the bustling city.

Panna II, East Village

I love Indian food and Little India, a stretch of restaurants on 7th Street in the East Village, is the perfect place to dine. Panna II is the best of the bunch. Be warned there will be dozens of friendly hosts trying to get you into their respective dining establishments, but walk up the stairs to Panna II and you will surely be in for a treat. Oh and this restaurant is BYOB. Pick up a bottle of “cost efficient” wine on your way in.

Whole Foods, Union Square

Yes I realize there are Whole Foods all over the country but this one is quite special. Head upstairs, buy a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy the view of Union Square park. You can get lost for hours watching people go in and out of the subway, shop and perform. Sometimes the best reason to visit New York is to stop and people watch. So take a breather from sightseeing and enjoy!

Tokyo 7, East Village

This is certainly not your grandmother’s consignment shop! Filled with designer labels: vintage Gucci, Prada, Fendi ….(need I go on?) this place is a fashion lovers dream. Tokyo & may be a little more expensive than your average thrift shop, but the finds are more than worth it.

Rai Rai Ken, East Village

This tiny noodle bar only seats 10, and is about as narrow as a hallway. But the Japanese food cooking in this little place is out of this world. Known especially for their ramen Rai Rai Ken is not for the faint of slurping.

Not too long ago I found myself with a stopover in Nadi, Fiji. I decided to make the most of it and extend my stay by two weeks. The mainland was in flux because of a military coup (or plans of one) so I chose to stray away from Nadi. I met a wonderful Canadian travel agent who told me to go to the smaller island groups along the west of the two main islands. She told me about fancy resorts, party boats, secluded islands with power only two hours a day and tiny islands that you can walk around in less than fifteen minutes. I chose one of the sporty islands in The Mamanuca group and five of the smaller more isolated ones in The Yasawa group.

Here are some of my favorite moments:

Our Main Means of Transport

I knew we would have to take boats to get around obviously, but I didn’t know I would have to trot out in knee deep waters during high tide to get to the boats. Luckily the waters were warm and I had help with my bags.

Beachcomber

This island you can walk around in less than fifteen minutes. It is full of vibrant entertainers and guests. It also has a 100 bed bunk for the backpackers and budget tourists along with a few bungalows. You can kayak to other small islands, snorkel, learn to dive, and jet ski! The food is great and the fruit is plentiful and delicious.

The Bungalows

My humble accommodations on the water. All you really need is a comfy bed with a mosquito net and you’re set.

The Local Chief

At one point I was the only tourist on the grounds. There were three hotels total on the island and five tourists. The local village chief invited us down for a kava ceremony to welcome us.

The Local School

The principal invited us out to view traditional dances and visit with the school kids. It was by far the best day in Fiji being able to learn about the culture and hang out with the kids.

The Locals Of Course!

The locals in the islands are very very kind. I spent my days learning local crafts, playing volleyball, teaching them how to play cards, and trying to spearfish (mostly watching in awe at the cook catching my dinner!) On the mainland it’s a bit of a different story. You have to be careful of people trying to sell you overpriced or even non existent tours. Even the taxi drivers will try to take to you for a ride…. literally. They will sometimes make unexpected stops to restaurants and shops on the way to your destination, which in turn hand them a commission for each sale made.

The Nature!

The snorkeling and diving in Fiji is just unbelievable. You can get up close to so many vibrant underwater fish, snakes, and shell fish.

Meeting Other Travelers

The best part about traveling for me is meeting people. Whether it be the locals or other world wanderers, it’s what I look forward to the most.

BULA!

(All Photography By: Aysha Manori)

It all starts with the segmentation of hours that the Glendon provides. The restaurant offers two Happy Hour sessions; the first one lasts from 4pm to 7pm and the second session runs from 10pm to 12am. College kids can mingle with after-work drinkers and enjoy half-price appetizers, $6 wines, $5 well drinks and $4 beers. The second Happy Hour provides an opportunity for late-night heads to eat and drink on the cheap in a chill, spacious (high ceilings), well-furnished, well-located spot. The Glendon is open till 2am and they serve food until the place closes, which is another bonus for lovers of late-night fun. There’s also a lounge located upstairs for people who want more of a lamping atmosphere.

Lunch is served from 11am to 3pm and dinner runs from 5:30pm to 10pm. The lunch crowd is mixed, but you’ll find a bit of an older crowd during dinner (and some pretty amazing food as well).

Master Chef Nick Jacobs has crafted a simple menu with creative apps and can’t-miss entrees. I had a chance to try a few things on the menu, and the results were decidedly pleasant. Here’s a quick rundown of the few dishes that I sampled:

Garlic Fries – $8

The Glendon Garlic Fries were mellow, but still sharp. Not overbearing like the G-Fries you get at Gordon Biersch. The biggest perk with these is the Aioli dipping sauce action. The spicy red pepper Aioli was cash-money tangy and the Garlic Aioli, while it might sound like garlic overkill, was a creamy complement to the well-crafted fries.

Tijuana Grilled Corn on the Cob -$7

Oh man, this is a can’t miss app. For seven bucks you get two cobs covered in Quesco Fresco cheese, Turkish Paprika and lime. This is a rich and refreshing (the lime was a really nice touch) treat for any time of the day. But plan your meal accordingly. These indulgent, somewhat-filling cobs will put a dent in the available real estate of your grumbling stomach.

Manhattan – $11

I got a thing for Manhattans, man. They may not look like the manliest beverage, but when made correctly, Manhattans are the perfect drink. The Glendon makes their Manhattans with Woodford Reserve Bourbon. They don’t throw too much bitters in there, and the whole concoction is really balanced and efficient.

Sliders with Salad – $11

You know a place is firing on all cylinders when they serve you sliders with a salad and the salad is so good that you almost forget about the mini beef treats that share the same plate. This small salad was hearty with just the right amount of dressing, and the sliders were simple, chunky and served in a moist bun with just the right amount of grilled onions. It makes for an uncomplicated combo that’s impossible not to devour.

Mac and Cheese – $11 (Add Bacon for $2 or Crab $4)

Forget your Kraft crap and Velveeta funk, this Mac and Cheese is downright classy! I got the mac with crab combination and it was ridiculous. You got a crunchy top, spicy/salty inside and a sweet and creamy finish. With jalapenos, a three cheese Bechamel Base and a Pankou Parmesan crust, this is just a good app to share or pound all by yourself.

Filet Mignon – $34

After sampling all these fine apps, I had a feeling that the Filet Mignon was going to be pretty damn good. It was. This tiny little hockey puck of flavor is shielded by a crisp outer shell and a juicy, no-teeth-required-to-chew interior. There’s a little bit of Mushroom Bearnaise sauce on top. It wasn’t dry and it wasn’t drenched. Just the right amount of sauce to top off the meat. The plate also comes with smashed red potatoes and sautéed spinach with caramelized onions.

So long story short, this place is good. Smart concept, great location, amazing food (seriously), comfortable atmosphere, it’s got all that. You want to eat and grub on the cheap during Happy Hour? Go for it, dude. $4 beers and half-off apps.  You want a place where you can take a girl and order from a wine menu that lists out options by first date, second date, third date and fourth date? Done. Whether you’re a college kid, a working stiff, a West LA adult or someone who just appreciates tasty food, The Glendon delivers on all fronts. It caters to many and alienates none. Go check the place out.

Damascus has been a center for cultural achievement for decades and spans the most impressive historical developments to date. It is the oldest city in the world to be consistently inhabited and it is not hard to believe, as it only takes a brief walk down the city’s center to behold sculptures from antiquity to Medieval fortresses and distinctly Islamic mosques and courtyards. Situated at a crossroads of the three major religions, it reflects the immersion of these faiths over millennium and remains one of the few cities to offer such a peaceful coexistence. In fact the old town of the city is divided into districts which surround the important artifacts for Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Add in the fact that Syrian hospitality is a renowned spectacle in itself and it makes for a very rewarding journey. It is no wonder then, that Damascus is regaining a reputation among budget travelers eager to explore a new terrain and immerse themselves in a unique and extraordinary culture.

These are five things you must not miss on a short trip to Damascus:

1. Marvel at the Architectural Beauty of the Ummayad Mosque

The Ummayad mosque is undoubtedly the highlight of the sights in Damascus, an architectural feat for which people journey hundreds of miles merely to witness. It is the oldest and largest surviving mosque, with a striking courtyard and architectural simplicity and elegance. It not only bears significance to Muslims for the direct connection to the Prophet Muhammad and his kin, but also holds importance to Christianity as it was built on a basilica dedicated to John the Baptist, and still encompasses the shrine that contains his head. In addition, just behind the mosque can be found the tomb of Salah ah Din (Saladin), the famed conqueror of the Crusader era. (Just note that you may need to bring some covering clothing to enter – My tank top and tattoos were not permitted uncovered.)

(Image via Jamil Karim)

2. Gaze at the City from Atop Mount Qassioun

Jebel Qassioun offers a stunning view of the city from it’s elevated position, and this is a favorite spot for locals and families to relax and watch the sunset over Damascus. The city is illuminated at night, and the florescent green lighting is a sight to behold. There are a few cafes and restaurants at the viewpoint that serve food and alcohol, though at a slightly elevated price. It can be an entertaining and quite vigorous hike for those looking to attempt it in the daylight. For others, taxis are easily accessible. (For any risk takers out there, I suggest trying the infamous “Bear Beer” that is sold at cafes atop the mountain. Yes that is the name of the beer, and no it is not Syrian. But I have a hard time believing that a country that does celebrate alcohol publicly would actually purchase such a concoction willingly.)

(Image via Top7Guide )

3. Hone Your Haggling Skills at Souq al-Hamidiyya

This indoor street is fascinating spectacle on its own, and one can easily spend hours trying to navigate its nearly endless maze of stalls and shops. Specializing in everything from exotic spices to jewelry, clothing and sweets, this-bazaar like arena is a shopper’s paradise, and a sight that encapsulates the cultural undertones of an age old tradition. (You honestly will not know where one section ends and the next begins – I was browsing stalls laden with desserts and pastries when I suddenly found myself standing amidst a butcher’s paradise of hanging meats with no recollection of how.)

(Image via Damascus-Online)

4. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth with the Finest Exotic Chocolates from Ghraoui

The Ghraoui chocolatier, found at the far end of the Souq, is considered by many to be the finest source of chocolates in the world. With fine rich textured chocolate combined with exotic Middle Eastern fruits and nuts, it is uniquely Syrian, and uniquely delicious. According to the NY Times: “Ghraoui’s fawakeh mujaffafa come in octagonal silver gift boxes, and they look almost jewel-like: perfect miniature apricots, figs and even eggplants resting in individual paper nests. The fruits are picked while they are still tiny and carefully boiled in sugar syrup, then dried in the sun so they maintain their color and shape.” How can you resist? A personal favorite of mine was the pistachio and dark chocolate apricots.

(Image via Ghraoui)

5. Take a Night Out

While hardly the nightlife capital of the region like neighboring Beirut, Damascus has it’s share of places to grab a quick drink. While it is rare to see the locals engaging in such activity in public, the Christian Quarter of Old Town Damascus has a series of small bars to frequent, as do many of the newer upscale hotels and resorts. Or if one is in the mood for a nargileh (hookah) there is an abundance of restaurants and cafes which provide high quality flavored tobacco to smoke at a very reasonable price.

(Image via Luxique)

(Lead image via jemasmith)

As the plane was approaching the gate an unruly passenger got up before the seat belt signs were off and attempted to get her baggage out of the overhead compartment. Steven approached her and asked her to please be seated. The passenger was insistent and pulled the luggage, which knocked Steven in the head. He asked her to apologize and she refused and instead started to swear at him. Slater walked up the aisle and got on the intercom to address the passenger publicly.

To the passenger who called me a motherf***er, f*** you.”

He added, “I’ve been in the business 28 years. I’ve had it. That’s it.”

He grabbed two beers, pulled the emergency chute and ran down to the employee parking lot to flee. He was later arrested at his home in Queens and charged with a slew of minor charges. Police talked to a former flight attendant and neighbor about the matter, who was proud of Slater “Enough is enough — good for him,” she said. “If he would have called me, I would have picked him up.” As news has being circulated around the web we’re seeing that this is just the case. People are showing great support for Slater, there’s even a fan page on Facebook with well over 7,000 members!

As a traveler I have to admit I tend to forget to really appreciate those working in the tourism and hospitality industry, they don’t have it easy having to deal with the likes of us day in and day out. Next time you fly be nice and be patient!

Only a few minutes from the action-packed downtown of Santa Cruz, the Bay Front Inn is situated on Pacific Avenue in a beach town that is among the nation’s most eclectic. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers vacationers plenty of fun-filled days for families and couples alike. If you’re just looking for some lazy days lying on the beach, then Santa Cruz is also the place to make your vacation happen.

Guests will be treated to free continental breakfasts, wireless Internet, parking and more. If you forget your own laptop and need to make an urgent online transaction, the hotel offers free use of their computer and printer, as well. If you’re on the road in your car, or can’t leave home without the family dog, then never fear. The Bay Front Inn allows pets! That’s correct — pet friendly hotels when you hit the beach. Or better, stay around the hotel’s pool and lounge in even more comfort without having to do more than walk out of your room. Room rates are listed as affordable, and there are studios with kitchens, as well as flat screen televisions, patios, air conditioning and more.

Bay Front Inn
325 Pacific Ave.
Santa Cruz, CA
831.423.8564

(Image Via: Bay Front Inn)