Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.gadling.com/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Valentine's Day Travel: World Wide Bus offers free bus tickets from NYC-Boston]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/10/valentines-day-travel-world-wide-bus-offers-free-bus-tickets-f/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/10/valentines-day-travel-world-wide-bus-offers-free-bus-tickets-f/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/10/valentines-day-travel-world-wide-bus-offers-free-bus-tickets-f/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

free bus ticketsIf you're tight on cash this Valentine's Day, it may still be possible to plan a last-minute getaway to New York City or the Boston area. World Wide Bus, which launched last fall, is offering free round-trip bus tickets from Manhattan to Cambridge, or vice versa.

Too good to be true? Well, if you can take time off work, the free tickets are valid for travel on Feb. 14 (Valentine's Day), Feb. 15, Feb. 16, or Feb. 17. I just checked and found that there are still seats left on the 9 a.m. departure from Manhattan, which would put you in Cambridge by 2 p.m. -- that leaves you plenty of time to explore before sitting down to a romantic V-Day dinner.

The company initially set aside 1,000 one-way tickets for this Valentine's Day promotion, but is now aiming to add buses to accommodate any increased demand. Even so, it's best to lock in these free tickets now. There are three daily departures from each city. The nearly five-hour bus ride is made a bit more tolerable with Wi-Fi and power outlets at each seat.

The Deal: The round-trip tickets are worth $30 ($15 one-way).

The Details: Limit two round-trip tickets per customer. You must register in advance of the day you're traveling, and enter each passenger's name on the ticket. Other free routes between Feb. 14-17 include Manhattan to Newton, Mass., or vice versa.

More Info: www.worldwidebus.com

Valentine's Day Travel: World Wide Bus offers free bus tickets from NYC-Boston originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelbus ticketsBusTicketsfreefree ticketsFreeTicketsvalentines dayValentinesDayThu, 10 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[5 best chocolate factory tours around the U.S.]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/28/5-best-chocolate-factory-tours-around-the-u-s/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/28/5-best-chocolate-factory-tours-around-the-u-s/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/28/5-best-chocolate-factory-tours-around-the-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

chocolate factory toursIf you really want to impress a chocoholic on Valentine's Day, consider stopping by one of these chocolate factory tours in San Francisco, New York City, Las Vegas, Hawaii, and Vermont. Most of these tours are free, plus you'll score complimentary samples -- and extra brownie points for creativity.

But even if you can only give your sweetheart a box of chocolates this year, these tours are available year-round (not that you really need an excuse to indulge on your next vacation).

TCHO
Where: Pier 17, San Francisco
Move over, Ghirardelli. TCHO launched a free factory tour just after Thanksgiving. Though each tour includes complimentary samples of chocolate, cocoa nibs, and biscotti, few people will be able to resist buying the best-selling chocolate-covered mango pieces ($4 for four ounces). And for chocolate lovers who can't make it to the factory, TCHO is expected to unveil a virtual tour soon.
When: 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily; factory operation may not be in production on all weekends.
Cost: Free tour. Walk-ins are accepted, but there's a limit of 30 people per tour, so you'll want to reserve tickets through www.brownpapertickets.com.
Info: www.tcho.com

Big Island Candies
Where: Hilo, Hawaii
Large glass windows let you watch rows of workers as they hand-dip macadamia nuts in milk or dark chocolate. More adventurous chocolate lovers may want to try Ika, dried cuttlefish dipped in chocolate. You'll also be able to help yourself to chocolate and cookie samples, all of which you can wash down with a complimentary cup of Kona coffee.
When: Factory operation is viewable 8:30 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays
Cost: Free admission; two-ounce box of chocolate-covered macadamia nuts from $4.
Info: www.bigislandcandies.com

Lake Champlain Chocolates
Where: Burlington, Vermont
The 25-minute factory tour includes free tastings of dark, milk, and white chocolate, plus a featured sample that varies by day. The company's bestseller? Truffles ($2.25 each; $12 for a four-piece gift box).
When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Mondays-Fridays on the hour; in the summer, there is typically a tasting session and a video demo on Fridays instead of the tour.
Cost: Free tour. Walk-ins are accepted; limit 30 people per tour.
Info: 800/465-5909 for reservations; www.lakechamplainchocolates.com

Continue reading 5 best chocolate factory tours around the U.S.

5 best chocolate factory tours around the U.S. originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget-travelbudgettravelchocolatechocolate factorychocolate factory toursChocolateFactoryChocolateFactoryToursfree toursFreeTourstoursvalentines dayValentinesDayFri, 28 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to create a realistic travel budget with Mint.com's planning tool]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/10/travel-resolution-how-to-create-a-realistic-travel-budget-with/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/10/travel-resolution-how-to-create-a-realistic-travel-budget-with/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/10/travel-resolution-how-to-create-a-realistic-travel-budget-with/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A new year often means lofty resolutions, especially when it comes to planning and maintaining a travel budget.

Though there are many personal-finance sites and software out there, this year I'm resolving to use Mint.com's free online tool. You can create plans for saving toward retirement and buying a house, but I'll be primarily using the site for its Travel Goals, which help you set -- and stick to -- realistic travel budgets.

And though the tool obviously doesn't do the hardest part (you still have to save the money), it does track how far or close you are to achieving your Travel Goal.

For example, say you want to go to Hawaii for a week this summer. Once you create a budget by filling in the estimates for airfare, hotel, meals, and other expenses, you can then specify how much you will contribute to that Travel Goal each month.

If you underestimate how much you'd need to save per month, the online tool points out: "Oh no! You aren't saving enough each month to reach your goal on time." The tool then offers you two ways to fix your Travel Goal: increase your monthly contribution in order to reach your desired travel date or postpone your planned date to fit your monthly contribution.

If you stay on track with saving the specified amount each month, Mint.com's budgeting tool highlights (and adjusts) the projected date of when you can afford to take the trip. Save more, and you could afford to take your trip a month or two earlier.

But if you slack on your monthly savings, the date will be pushed back -- a reality check and an instant motivator. Once you mentally equate an unnecessary clothing purchase or an impulse buy to the consequence of delaying your trip by a month, saving becomes a little more real.

Granted, most people will buy plane tickets and reserve hotels with a credit card several months before actually taking the trip; the tool helps track if you'll be able to easily pay it all off after your trip. After all, nothing ruins a vacation more than coming home to bills that you're not financially prepared to handle.

To fund my travels this year, I've linked my Mint.com account to an ING Savings Account labeled Travel Fund.

How do you stay on track with saving up for a vacation?

[flickr image via epSoS.de]

Gallery: How to create a realistic travel budget

Create a travel goalTake a tripPersonalize your goalTrack your progressMonitor your travel budget

How to create a realistic travel budget with Mint.com's planning tool originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budgetbudget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelmint.comtravel budgettravel goaltravel resolutionTravelBudgetTravelGoalTravelResolutionMon, 10 Jan 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Travel Photography: Krome Photos service edits pictures for you]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/25/travel-photography-krome-photos-edits-pictures-for-you/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/25/travel-photography-krome-photos-edits-pictures-for-you/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/25/travel-photography-krome-photos-edits-pictures-for-you/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

travel photographyA funny thing happens to my travel photos after a trip. After uploading select pictures to Flickr or Picasa, my photos often languish unedited (and unseen) on my laptop. I tell myself that when I finally carve out some free time, I'll go back and properly edit the rest of the pictures and create a photo book or scrapbook to remember my vacation.

Unfortunately, the photo folders keep multiplying and I never seem to find the time. Luckily, there's now an affordable online service that can edit your photos for you: Krome Photos.

How It Works
Sign up for a free trial with 25 photo credits and 1GB of storage at www.kromephotos.com. Another special introductory offer gives you 100 photo credits for $2.50. See here for more pricing plans, including monthly subscriptions.

Download the Krome Photo Uploader to your desktop, and upload any photos that you want to be edited. Go off, live life, and about 24-36 hours later, you'll get an e-mail notifying that your photos have received the "Krome Treatment," or the talents of a personal photo editor who may improve your pictures with color correction, red-eye correction, cropping, or other tweaks.

You can accept or reject the photo enhancements; a photo credit is deducted from your account balance if you download or share an edited photo. Though it's nice to have someone else's perspective on your photography, if you don't like how a certain photo is cropped or edited, you can easily undo the Krome Treatment. For each photo that you undo, a photo credit is refunded.

Need help deciding which edited photos to keep? You can click on a Before/After button to see the original picture and edited version side by side.

Continue reading Travel Photography: Krome Photos service edits pictures for you

Travel Photography: Krome Photos service edits pictures for you originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 25 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelphoto editingPhoto editing servicesphoto editing softwarePhotoEditingPhotoEditingServicesPhotoEditingSoftwarephotographyphotostravel photographytravel technologytravel-techTravelPhotographyTravelTechnologySat, 25 Dec 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Authentic New York City souvenirs under $20]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/17/authentic-new-york-city-souvenirs-under-20/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/17/authentic-new-york-city-souvenirs-under-20/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/17/authentic-new-york-city-souvenirs-under-20/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

new york city souvenirsTrying to find authentic souvenirs amid all the mass-produced merchandise can be tough. Here are five affordable New York City souvenirs that make great gifts for foodies -- and any traveler who wants to keep a taste of the Big Apple close at hand.

Shake Shack
Danny Meyer's New York City-based burger empire makes adorable Small Fry onesies for infants and Shake Shack T-shirts for adults -- the silhouettes are a nod to the hour-long waits at the original Madison Square Park location, which even has a Shack Cam webcam to help people figure out when to go.
Cost: $18 each
Where to Buy: At any of the five Shake Shack locations (Madison Square Park, Times Square, Upper West Side, Upper East Side, or Citi Field)

Gimme! Coffee
Ithaca, N.Y.-based Gimme! Coffee has a Manhattan location and an outpost in Brooklyn. Perfect for espresso lovers, this 3-ounce porcelain cup's message is loud and clear.
Cost: $9.95 for a cup and matching saucer
Where to Buy: www.gimmecoffee.com

Broadway gear
You've already paid for expensive Broadway show tickets and hate the idea of paying $20 for a souvenir program. Luckily, you don't have to go home with just the Playbill. Stop at one of the bars in the theater, where you can buy a drink and keep the reusable plastic cup. For example, a Coke in this Wicked commemorative cup costs $5, while a Wicked mug at the souvenir kiosk is $15 (and doesn't include a drink).
Cost: $5 for soda in a souvenir cup
Where to Buy: Broadway theaters, such as Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre (222 W. 51st St.) or The Lion King at the Minskoff Theatre (1515 Broadway)

Magnolia Bakery
Though the cupcake craze seems to ebb and flow, Magnolia Bakery (made famous by Sex and the City) offers a cute alternative to the regular I Heart New York T-shirts. Plus, the shirt will last long after the sugar rush subsides.
Cost: $20 for adults; $15 for teens, toddlers, and infants
Where to Buy: www.magnoliabakery.com

Jacques Torres
Warm up with this deliciously sinful Wicked Hot Chocolate -- it's spiked with cinnamon, allspice, sweet ancho chile peppers, and smoked ground chipotle chile peppers. If you can't resist sampling the hot chocolate at the store, expect to pay $3.25 for a small 8-ounce cup and $4.25 for a large 12-ounce cup.
Cost: $18 per souvenir tin, which makes 8-10 cups each
Where to Buy: At any of the four NYC locations or www.mrchocolate.com

Gallery: Affordable New York City souvenirs under $20

Shake ShackGimme! CoffeeBroadway GearMagnolia BakeryJacques Torres Chocolate

Authentic New York City souvenirs under $20 originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>affordablebudget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelnew york cityNewYorkCitysouvenirst-shirtsFri, 17 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[5 best suitcases for kids and teens for $100 or less]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/09/5-best-suitcases-for-kids-and-teens-for-100-or-less/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/09/5-best-suitcases-for-kids-and-teens-for-100-or-less/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/09/5-best-suitcases-for-kids-and-teens-for-100-or-less/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

best suitcasesIt's hard to say whether these suitcases are meant for the kids or the parents. Adorable enough to entertain kids and stylish enough to appeal preteens, and teens, these five affordable carry-ons may be just the thing to encourage children to roll their own gear through the airport.

Isabella Fiore
Italian designer Isabella Fiore launched a hard-shell suitcase this fall that proves that suitcases don't have to come in boring black. The floral pattern is sophisticated enough for preteens, teens, and adults alike. Bonus: The 20-inch polycarbonate wheelie bag weighs a mere 6.5 pounds -- and with a stylish bag like this, your precocious child may even start looking forward to packing.
Cost: $100 for a 20-inch suitcase; available in white, pink, and blue floral prints
Where to Buy: Dillard's stores

Beatrix New York
With whimsical designs such as a robot, an owl, a monkey, a ladybug, and a dinosaur, I only wish that these 16-inch wheelie bags also came in grown-up sizes. Bonus: The handle is perfectly sized for kids, but the height cleverly extends a bit longer for adults who may need to take over wheeling the bag through the airport.
Cost: $94
Where to Buy: www.dantebeatrix.com

Ecozoo Rolling Series by Ecogear
Ecogear's Rolling Monkey is the latest animal to join the Ecozoo menagerie, which already includes a panda, puppy, pig, and frog. Padded shoulder straps transform the rolling bag into an easy-to-carry backpack.
Cost: $50
Where to Buy: www.ecogear-products.com

Trunki
I recently spotted a pair of the tiger-shaped Trunki suitcases at San Francisco International Airport. The pint-size wheelie suitcases can be filled with toys, games, and other distractions -- and best of all, kids can hitch a free ride by sitting on the hard-case suitcases. And when your flight is delayed, the suitcase is certainly a cleaner place to sit than the airport floor.
Cost: $39.99
Where to Buy: www.melissaanddoug.com

Hello Kitty by FAB NY
The beloved Sanrio character is still going strong after 35 years. And even if your little one eventually outgrows her Hello Kitty obsession or decides that pink isn't for her, the 16-inch wheelie bag is one of the most affordable suitcases of the bunch.
Cost: $39.99
Where to Buy: www.toysrus.com

Gallery: 5 adorable suitcases for kids

Isabella FioreBeatrix New YorkMonkey Ecozoo RollerTrunkiHello Kitty by FAB NY

5 best suitcases for kids and teens for $100 or less originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best suitcasesBestSuitcasesbudget-travelbudgettravelcarryonfamilytravelgearrolling suitcaseRollingSuitcasesuitcaseswheeled luggageWheeledLuggagewheelie bagWheelieBagThu, 09 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to find affordable ski deals this winter]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/03/how-to-find-affordable-ski-deals-over-the-holidays/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/03/how-to-find-affordable-ski-deals-over-the-holidays/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/03/how-to-find-affordable-ski-deals-over-the-holidays/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

ski dealsSkiing isn't the most budget-friendly winter activity, but you can find affordable ski deals if you know when and where to book lift tickets.

Evan Reece, co-founder of Liftopia.com, reveals how to save on lift tickets at popular ski resorts around the U.S.

Buy lift tickets in advance and pick your days carefully.
If you buy a lift ticket through Liftopia at least the day before you plan to ski, you can typically save an average of 35 percent when compared to booking a one-day pass in person at the ticket window. Mid-week lift tickets are generally cheaper, and skiing on Sundays typically costs less than Saturdays. "Many customers will go up for the weekend and intend to ski both days, Reece says. "But they'll end up being tired on Sunday. And faced with a four-hour drive, they'll just say, 'Let's go.'"

Ski on Christmas Day.
When everyone else is preoccupied with opening gifts on Christmas morning, hit the ski slopes and save. Based on last year's data, the average price of all lift tickets booked in advance through Liftopia for Christmas Day skiing was 39.7 percent less than what you'd pay at the window, Reece says. Other bargain days include New Year's Day, Jan. 2, and Super Bowl Sunday.

Continue reading How to find affordable ski deals this winter

How to find affordable ski deals this winter originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget-travelbudgettravellift ticketliftopiaLiftTicketski dealsSkiDealssnowboardingtravel dealsTravelDealsFri, 03 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Topguest travel app review: Check in and earn more airline and hotel loyalty points]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/02/travel-app-review-topguest-rewards-check-ins-with-airline-and-h/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/02/travel-app-review-topguest-rewards-check-ins-with-airline-and-h/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/02/travel-app-review-topguest-rewards-check-ins-with-airline-and-h/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

travel appAre you the type of traveler who checks in on Foursquare when you're at the airport or your hotel? If so, your social media addiction can now translate into extra loyalty points, thanks to the free Topguest travel app.

Topguest rewards your Foursquare or Facebook Places check-ins by linking your hotel or airline loyalty programs with your social media activity. Nothing is posted publicly without your permission, so you can reap the rewards without worrying about divulging your whereabouts.

While in San Francisco for Thanksgiving, I tested out the Topguest app, which has expanded since its summer debut.

After downloading the free app, I was able to add my membership numbers for Virgin America (25 Elevate points for each check-in to a Virgin America terminal, clubhouse or ticket counter) and Hilton HHonors (50 points for each check-in at a Doubletree). Don't know the numbers by heart? I was able to easily copy and paste the loyalty numbers from account statements in my e-mail inbox. Once your accounts are linked, you can just check in on Foursquare or Facebook Places like you normally would.

Continue reading Topguest travel app review: Check in and earn more airline and hotel loyalty points

Topguest travel app review: Check in and earn more airline and hotel loyalty points originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appbudget-travelbudgettravelloyalty programLoyaltyProgramtopguesttravelapptraveltechTravelTechnologyThu, 02 Dec 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Holiday Travel: 5 wacky winter activities and traditions]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/01/holiday-travel-5-wacky-winter-activities-and-holiday-traditions/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/01/holiday-travel-5-wacky-winter-activities-and-holiday-traditions/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/01/holiday-travel-5-wacky-winter-activities-and-holiday-traditions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

winter activitiesSpice up your holiday traditions with one of these wacky winter activities in Paris, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and other cities around the world.

Lighted Farm Implement Parade
Where: Yakima Valley, WA
Holiday parades are a dime a dozen, but this one can't help but make you smile. More than 50 farm implements (as in tractors), trucks, and floats participate in this 21-year-old tradition in Sunnyside, WA.
Cost: Free
When: 6 p.m. Dec. 4, 2010

Roving Snowcat Food Trucks
Where: Mammoth Mountain, CA
Starting Dec. 18, Roving Mammoth snowcat food trucks will serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks (including churros, burritos, and calzones) to skiers and snowboarders on Mammoth Mountain. Non-alcoholic beverages will also be sold, but you'll have to save your après-ski cocktails for after you unstrap your skis and snowboards.
Cost: A one-day ski lift ticket is $92 for adults, $69 for teens, and $46 for kids 7-12; kids 6 and under are free.

Snow Bar
Where: Paris
The Hilton Arc de Triomphe, about a 10-minute walk from the world's most famous arch, has transformed its outdoor courtyard into a winter wonderland. Expect snow makers, a cozy chalet bar with cocktails, and hostesses dressed up like Mrs. Claus.
When: Dec. 2, 2010-Jan. 1, 2011
Cost: Rooms start at 295 euros ($385) per night in December.

Pool-Turned-Ice Skating Rink
Where: Los Angeles
The W Los Angeles-Westwood has once again transformed its pool deck into an ice skating rink. The hybrid ice rink means that if you fall, you won't feel cold or wet. The Snowy Snack Bar also lets you decorate your own gingerbread men or mini holiday cupcakes (add $10 per person).
Cost: $10 for a one-hour session with skate rentals; open to the public
When: Until Jan. 2, 2011

Chocolate Carousel
Where: Las Vegas, Nevada
A life-size (and fully functional) carousel made with chocolate and sugar is part of the annual Holiday Village at the Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas. Alas, the drool-worthy carousel isn't meant for rides, but you can admire the intricate handiwork up close.
Cost: Free and open to the public
When: Until Dec. 25, 2010

[Photo: Courtesy Daily Sun News, Sunnyside]

Gallery: Wacky Winter Activities & Holiday Traditions

A Holiday Light Parade Like No OtherRoving Mammoth snowcatA Pool-Turned-Ice Skating RinkSnow Bar in ParisFour Seasons Las Vegas chocolate carousel

Holiday Travel: 5 wacky winter activities and traditions originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget-travelbudgettravelholidaytraditionsiceskatingwackywinteractivitiesWed, 01 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Do Thanksgiving deals make hotels more appealing than staying at home?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/22/do-thanksgiving-deals-make-hotels-more-appealing-than-home/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/22/do-thanksgiving-deals-make-hotels-more-appealing-than-home/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/22/do-thanksgiving-deals-make-hotels-more-appealing-than-home/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Thanksgiving dealsI'm going home for Thanksgiving for the first time since moving from the San Francisco Bay Area to New York City. And rather than agreeing to sleep on the futon, I'm springing for a hotel room. Does choosing to stay in a hotel make me a bad person since the whole point of the holiday is to be with family?

As much as I love my family, I'm not too crazy about the idea of my 9-year-old niece and 5-year-old nephew rousing me out of bed at 6 a.m. every day. And though my sister tries her best to keep them occupied until I've woken up, the guilt -- and their adorable pleading ("Will you play with me?", "Are you still sleeping?") -- inevitably drives me to get up with the rest of the family.

To be honest, I didn't plan to stay at a hotel over Thanksgiving. But as a Kimpton InTouch loyalty member, I received an e-mail blast several weeks ago for weekend deals. When I discovered that the deal wasn't blacked out over Thanksgiving weekend, I ended up booking three nights at the Sir Francis Drake in San Francisco's Union Square for $109 per night. Is the extra sleep worth that much money? In my case, yes.

Continue reading Do Thanksgiving deals make hotels more appealing than staying at home?

Do Thanksgiving deals make hotels more appealing than staying at home? originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget-travelbudgettravelhotel dealsHotelDealskimptonsan franciscoSanFranciscothanksgivingthanksgiving dealsThanksgivingDealstravel dealsTravelDealsMon, 22 Nov 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[5 best lightweight travel bags for under $40]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/11/5-best-lightweight-travel-bags-for-under-40/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/11/5-best-lightweight-travel-bags-for-under-40/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/11/5-best-lightweight-travel-bags-for-under-40/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

When it comes to traveling with a lightweight bag, not all bags are created equal. Canvas totes that many people use for grocery shopping are often too bulky to pack as a spare travel bag, and many don't have zippers to keep your valuables secure.

Consider packing one of these lightweight bags on your next trip -- each bag costs much less than LeSportsac's $98 classic Travel Tote, and all of these nylon bags are compact enough to fold up until you need them. Let the souvenir shopping begin.

The Reisenthel Mini Maxi Carryall ($15.95, www.reuseit.com) is the most stylish -- and affordable -- of the bunch. To close the bag, use the zipper or the drawstring. Best of all, the bag folds flat into a zippered pouch for tidy storage.

Timbuk2's Hidden Messenger ($30, www.timbuk2.com) is much lighter than the company's signature ballistic-nylon messenger bags. This version, which launched in July, is mostly made with materials from recycled plastic bottles. Stylish, rugged, and good for the environment -- imagine that.

Sea to Summit's Ultra-Sil Sling Bag ($29.95, www.seatosummit.com) debuted this month. The bag (also with a zippered top) has a strap that's long enough to wear diagonally across your body like a messenger bag. When not in use, the bag balls up into its own pouch and can be attached to a key chain or tossed in your suitcase to help corral those last-minute purchases.

The RuMe ALL ($26.96, www.rumebags.com) has simple yet thoughtful touches -- a zip-top closure, outer pockets for a water bottle or an umbrella, and an exterior zippered pocket for stashing a cell phone or subway card. Whether you're putting your bag on the conveyor belt to go through airport security or you're sliding the bag under an airplane seat, the zipper helps ensure that your stuff doesn't go flying.

The North Face's Flyweight Map Bag ($39, www.thenorthface.com), which can also fold up into its own pocket, has an adjustable shoulder strap and its coated nylon fabric can withstand light rain. Perfect for sightseeing, the bag will be available until February, when it will be replaced by the new Flyweight Shoulder Bag ($25).

Gallery: 5 best lightweight travel bags under $40

Reisenthel Mini Maxi CarryallTimbuk2's Hidden MessengerTimbuk2 Hidden MessengerSea to Summit's Sling BagRuMe ALL

5 best lightweight travel bags for under $40 originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>affordablebudget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelgeargift guideGiftGuidelightweightnorthfacetimbuk2totetravel bagTravelBagThu, 11 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Stay at the Hard Rock San Diego hotel in December, get a free hybrid car rental]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/09/stay-at-the-hard-rock-san-diego-hotel-in-december-get-a-free-hy/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/09/stay-at-the-hard-rock-san-diego-hotel-in-december-get-a-free-hy/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/09/stay-at-the-hard-rock-san-diego-hotel-in-december-get-a-free-hy/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Travelers who stay at the Hard Rock San Diego from Dec. 1 to 30 will get a free hybrid car rental during their stay. Considering that the fees for renting a car can quickly add up, this affordable deal gives you more for less.

The "I'm Dreaming of a Green Christmas" package starts at $149 per room per night. The one-day hybrid car rental (either a Toyota Prius or a Nissan Altima Hybrid from Enterprise-Rent-A-Car) is worth at least $70.

Perfect for families, the Hard Rock San Diego hotel is about a 10-minute drive from the San Diego Zoo, a 15-minute drive from SeaWorld, and a 40-minute drive from LEGOLAND in Carlsbad.

Details: Book at least 24 hours in advance. Mention promo code GREEN or check availability at www.hardrockhotelsd.com/greenxmas. Limit one 24-hour car rental per stay.

Stay at the Hard Rock San Diego hotel in December, get a free hybrid car rental originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget-travelbudgettravelcar rentalcar rental dealsCarRentalCarRentalDealsfamily travelFamilyTravelhard rock hotelhard rock san diegoHardRockHotelHardRockSanDiegotravel dealsTravelDealsTue, 09 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to keep your house plants alive when you travel]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/04/how-to-keep-your-house-plants-alive-when-you-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/04/how-to-keep-your-house-plants-alive-when-you-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/04/how-to-keep-your-house-plants-alive-when-you-travel/#commentsFiled under: ,

There are pet sitters, of course, but do you hire someone to water your house plants while you're on vacation?

Since I live in a New York City apartment building, I don't usually bother asking anyone to pick up my mail or to water my plants when I'm gone. I hate to inconvenience friends, so unfortunately, I pay the price with dead plants (and stolen newspapers).

Though I rarely travel for longer than a week, I've killed two potted basil plants since June and recently had to throw out an orchid plant, which had shriveled up during my absence and was beyond salvation.

After feeling like a terrible person for neglecting my orchid, I was happy to come home from a recent trip and find that my two Clearly Good soil-free plants were still very much alive. Sadly, the rest of my plants looked a little parched. (R.I.P. orchid).

Small enough to sit on a windowsill, the Clearly Good plants help brighten apartments or office cubicles without the mess or maintenance of typical potted plants -- and the leafy plants look a little more cheerful than, say, a cactus. The see-through vases also clearly indicate the water level, which only needs to be replenished once every 10 days.

These Clearly Good plants, which were introduced at select Lowe's retail stores in August, are being rolled out to Lowe's stores nationwide over the coming weeks.

Price: $12.98 each

Where to Buy: Go to lowes.com to find a Lowe's location near you. According to a Lowe's spokesperson, the Clearly Good plants will become available for online purchase sometime next year.

Have you found other hardy house plants that can survive when you're on vacation? Feel free to share.

[Photo by Amy Chen]

How to keep your house plants alive when you travel originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lowesplantstravel tipsTravelTipsThu, 04 Nov 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to travel overseas with an iPod touch]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/25/how-to-travel-overseas-with-an-ipod-touch/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/25/how-to-travel-overseas-with-an-ipod-touch/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/25/how-to-travel-overseas-with-an-ipod-touch/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Rather than face exorbitant cell-phone roaming charges, my travel companion and I recently traveled to Europe with just an iPad and an iPod touch. Though that meant that we could only look up restaurants or things to do when we were in a free Wi-Fi spot, I enjoyed the break from my inbox. And rather than being tethered to Facebook updates, we both paid more attention to the scene at hand -- though as soon as we landed at JFK, my travel partner immediately turned on his iPhone to check Facebook.

Over the course of eight nights, I stayed in six hotels that all had free Wi-Fi access. Here's what I learned about traveling overseas with the fourth-generation iPod touch:

The iPod touch is an affordable way to stay connected while on the road. For the newest 8GB version with FaceTime, the iPod touch starts at $229, compared to the iPad's $499 starting price tag. Since there is no data plan for the iPod touch, you don't have to worry about incurring a monthly bill. Also, since both devices are light and compact enough to carry, I didn't have to fret about leaving a laptop in our luggage, which we left with the hotel's front desk during the day before moving on to the next one. Though I normally travel with a netbook in order to back up digital photos and clear memory cards, I solved the memory problem by bringing 18GB's worth of SD cards, which was more than enough even when shooting RAW files.

Sometimes the iPod touch was able to log on faster than the iPad. For whatever reason, we sometimes couldn't get the iPad to connect right away. Having two devices that could access the Internet also proved invaluable when plotting our next destination. I used the iPod touch to check simple things like the weather, the time (I still don't wear a watch), and the train schedule. I also downloaded the free Oanda currency converter app, which I used to calculate exchange rates. Conversely, we used the iPad for booking hotels and travel entertainment.

Continue reading How to travel overseas with an iPod touch

How to travel overseas with an iPod touch originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budgetbudget travelbudget-travelBudgetTraveltravel technoloyTravelTechnoloywifiMon, 25 Oct 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Travel Technology: No Netflix streaming outside the U.S.]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/24/travel-technology-no-netflix-streaming-outside-the-u-s/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/24/travel-technology-no-netflix-streaming-outside-the-u-s/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/24/travel-technology-no-netflix-streaming-outside-the-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

During my recent European vacation, I left my netbook at home and instead relied on my iPad for travel entertainment and on-the-road research.

With no individual in-flight entertainment screens aboard my Delta 767 flight, I was especially grateful for the TV episodes that I had downloaded onto the iPad. Other than the fact that my iPad kept toppling over when the person in front of me shifted in his seat, it was like having a personal seat-back entertainment system.

It is easy, however, to forget that the tools that I rely on for domestic travel aren't always readily available for international travel. For example, instead of forking over $8 for the hotel's pay-per-view channel, I often use my Netflix account to stream movies in my hotel room. (After spending hours walking around during the day, I find it relaxing to fall asleep while streaming a movie or some TV shows.)

Unfortunately, when I logged into my Netflix account from my hotel room, I received this message: "Watching instantly is not available outside the U.S. We noticed that the computer that you are using is not located within the 50 United States or the District of Columbia. Due to studio licensing reasons, movies are available to watch instantly only in those locations."

I ended up downloading more episodes from iTunes, which was painfully slow using the hotel's Wi-Fi.

As it turned out, Netflix wasn't the only travel tool that was unavailable on my trip -- I couldn't access Yelp in many cities (I kept getting the message that there were no nearby restaurants even though that clearly wasn't the case). Interestingly enough, Foursquare had a few check-ins -- unfortunately many check-ins appeared to be several months old, so I didn't feel like I could trust that as a travel resource.

Lessons Learned: Had I known that I wouldn't be able to use my Netflix account while overseas, I could've saved time by downloading extra movies and TV shows before I left on my trip. I also should've done more advance research on where to eat instead of assuming that Yelp restaurant reviews would be available. Instead, I had to resort to Google searches, old New York Times travel articles -- and following the crowds (a travel tip that never seems to let me down).

[Photo by Amy Chen]

Travel Technology: No Netflix streaming outside the U.S. originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 24 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelfacebookipadnetflixtravel technologytravel technology tipsTravelTechnologyTravelTechnologyTipsSun, 24 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New York City: 5 best restaurants for affordable brunch]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/10/new-york-city-5-best-restaurants-for-affordable-brunch/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/10/new-york-city-5-best-restaurants-for-affordable-brunch/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/10/new-york-city-5-best-restaurants-for-affordable-brunch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Brunch in New York City is a classic weekend experience, but ordering $20 eggs benedict at Jean-Georges' Nougatine or $18 brioche French toast at Pastis doesn't fit into everyone's travel budget. Here are five affordable brunch alternatives to help start your day off right.

1. Le Pain Quotidien, Central Park

I know Le Pain Quotidien is a chain, but it's not like its Belgian Waffle dusted with powdered sugar ($4.95) is settling for an Egg McMuffin. There's even a Waffle Window at the Central Park location, which opened in May near Sheep Meadow. The Central Park location will be open until November and then re-open in the spring.

2. Cafeteria (Chelsea)

An oldie but goodie, Cafeteria delivers solid brunch options at reasonable prices. The Silver Dollar Pancakes ($10) come with fresh berries and sweet Chantilly cream. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, this Chelsea favorite also draws a late-night crowd.

Continue reading New York City: 5 best restaurants for affordable brunch

New York City: 5 best restaurants for affordable brunch originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 10 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>affordablebrunchbudget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelnewyorkrestaurantsSun, 10 Oct 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Washington, D.C. hotel booking tips for the Oct. 30 rally]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/28/washington-d-c-hotel-booking-tips-for-the-oct-30-rally/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/28/washington-d-c-hotel-booking-tips-for-the-oct-30-rally/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/28/washington-d-c-hotel-booking-tips-for-the-oct-30-rally/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Like thousands of people who are either fans of Jon Stewart and/or Stephen Colbert, I'll be D.C.-bound for the Oct. 30 rally. And like so many travelers, I intend to keep costs low for the spontaneous trip. Or at least I'll try to.

Here are 3 strategies to help you (and me) stay on a budget:

Tip #1: Cash in any frequent-flyer points, hotel loyalty points, or other rewards that you've accrued.

The day after Stewart announced the rally, I checked the meager balance of my Starwood Preferred Guest account and was thrilled to see that I had actually earned a free night from a previous promotion. (Spending two nights at the Element Hotel near Houston earlier this summer had qualified me for a free weekend night.) I was skeptical about my chances of redeeming the points but called the 800 number anyway. I could hardly believe it when I found out that yes, I could redeem the points and better yet, I had enough to nab one of the last rooms at the W Hotel (the going rate at the time about $300; that hotel has since sold out).

Tip #2: Check B&Bs, but expect a two-night minimum.

Before I could crow too loudly about my free night, I learned that the rally would start at noon. My plan to take an early Amtrak train down to D.C. was derailed when I saw that all the morning train tickets from New York City had sold out. The only tickets left meant that I would arrive at Union Station well after the rally started.

Because I'd dawdled when it came to booking, I'm now forced to head down on Friday night and pay for an extra night's hotel. And that's when I ended up with the same problem that many travelers are facing: many D.C. hotels in convenient locations are already sold out, or the only remaining rooms are well over $300 per night. So much for traveling on a budget.

I did manage to find some $150 rooms at www.bedandbreakfast.com, but was disappointed to see that many required a minimum stay of two nights. I wasn't about to cancel my existing hotel reservation in order to book two nights at a B&B... which leads me to Tip #3.

Continue reading Washington, D.C. hotel booking tips for the Oct. 30 rally

Washington, D.C. hotel booking tips for the Oct. 30 rally originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelbudget-travelBudgetTraveld.c.jon stewartJonStewartstephen colbertStephenColbertwashington dcWashingtonDcTue, 28 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hotel booking tips: 5 things you need to know before reserving group rates]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/03/hotel-booking-tips-5-things-you-need-to-know-before-reserving-g/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/03/hotel-booking-tips-5-things-you-need-to-know-before-reserving-g/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/03/hotel-booking-tips-5-things-you-need-to-know-before-reserving-g/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While in Los Angeles for my brother's wedding, I was looking forward to staying at the Westlake Village Inn. But unfortunately, things went downhill even before we could check in.

Though the wedding itself was held off-site at a country club, a block of rooms were reserved at a discounted rate. With the group rate, I decided to treat myself to a suite with a king-size bed and gas fireplace (a little out of place in sunny L.A. but charming nonetheless).

But as I learned, hotels that cater to weddings and other special events can sometimes be under-staffed, leading guests who are not part of the event to fall through the cracks.

Here are 5 things you should know before reserving a group rate, which isn't necessarily the best deal.

1. Your room might not be ready at check-in. Plan accordingly.

My family arrived promptly at check-in, which was at 3 p.m. The wedding rehearsal started at 5 p.m. at an off-site location. My family disbanded to shower and change, but my room wasn't ready. So I left my cell phone number with the front desk so someone could notify me as soon as it was. I killed some time at one of the hotel bars, but an hour later, it was clear that the front desk wasn't going to call.

While walking back to the lobby, I called the front desk, was put on hold, and then informed that my room was ready. By then I was already standing outside the lobby. But somehow during the few minutes when I hung up the phone and appeared again at the front desk, I was then told that my room still wasn't ready. Sloppy service, but not a big deal, right?

After sorting out the confusion, I asked the front-desk manager what caused the delay. She told me that the hotel was fully booked the previous night and that "housekeeping just didn't make it." Hmm. You'd think that a hotel that caters to large wedding parties would anticipate the demand and be prepared with all hands on deck.

2. Group rates may equal inadequate service.

Under any other circumstances, these are minor inconveniences at best, but when you're trying to get ready for a special event, you really do need the hotel to fulfill its end of the bargain. Or you may need to lower your standards.

After receiving my room key, I asked what the hotel typically offered guests whose rooms were not ready by check-in. Rather than apologizing for not having the room ready, the front-desk manager asked rather snottily: "What do you want? A bottle of wine or something?"

After I responded that I would accept anything that the hotel typically offers, she handed me one drink coupon even though there were two people staying in the room. I accepted the voucher, but didn't end up redeeming it because we had already wasted an hour at the bar.

By the time I brought my luggage to the room, it was 4:15 p.m. -- no time to shower. I threw on a dress, changed my shoes, and left the hotel annoyed but more concerned about not being late.

Continue reading Hotel booking tips: 5 things you need to know before reserving group rates

Hotel booking tips: 5 things you need to know before reserving group rates originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelhotelshousekeepingFri, 03 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New York City restaurant grades: would you eat at a place with mice?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/29/new-york-city-restaurant-grades-would-you-eat-at-a-place-with-m/http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/29/new-york-city-restaurant-grades-would-you-eat-at-a-place-with-m/http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/29/new-york-city-restaurant-grades-would-you-eat-at-a-place-with-m/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

I was in the East Village last night and encountered my first sighting of New York's new restaurant grading system.

Starting last month, every New York City restaurant is now required to post a letter grade that corresponds to its health-inspection score. (Los Angeles has already successfully implemented the system.)

Based on the new system, a restaurant is awarded an A for scores between 0-13, a B for 14-27, and a C for 28 and higher. (Each health-code violation earns a certain number of points, so lower scores equal fewer violations.) Though all signs must be posted in a place that's visible to people walking by, I found that the Department of Health also has a handy online tool that lets you look up restaurants by name.

So I started inputting a few of my favorite restaurants, and my stomach started turning when I saw the history of violations, including "evidence of mice or live mice present in facility's food and/or non-food areas." Surprisingly, some of the affordable restaurants that I searched for did better than the fine-dining type of places. Though many of the restaurant inspections in my search were completed as recently as in May, most of the corresponding letter grades haven't yet been posted so you can only see recent health-code violations.

Perhaps it's better not to think about it, but I have the feeling that I'll be periodically checking up on my favorite places as the final letter grades are awarded and publicly posted. Otherwise, I'm going to have to finally learn how to cook.

Of course, this makes me wonder if health-code violations will just become relative: If I really love a restaurant but it only gets a B, does that mean that I should find a new favorite? Or will B become the new standard?

View Poll



[Photo by Amy Chen]

New York City restaurant grades: would you eat at a place with mice? originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 29 Aug 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget-travelhealth inspectionHealthInspectionrestaurant ratingsrestaurant reviewsRestaurantRatingsRestaurantReviewsSun, 29 Aug 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Test driving the Zipcar iPhone app]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/27/test-driving-the-zipcar-iphone-app/http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/27/test-driving-the-zipcar-iphone-app/http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/27/test-driving-the-zipcar-iphone-app/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

My brother got married last weekend in Los Angeles, which meant that I had to fly out Thursday night and back to New York City on Sunday. Rather than deal with getting off a long flight and renting a car from the airport -- I didn't think navigating an unfamiliar city at midnight when your body thinks it's 3 a.m. was the best idea -- I cabbed it to my hotel and retrieved a Zipcar the next morning.

I'd also been meaning to test out the Zipcar iPhone app, which lets you unlock your rental straight from the phone. This seemed like the perfect time to give it a whirl.

Here's what I learned:

Make sure you still bring your Zipcar membership card. Once you activate the app, you need to unlock the car first with your membership card by waving it over the designated area on the windshield. Next, you have to enter your membership number into your phone. Don't know your number? It's on your membership card. Though these preliminary steps seem to defeat the purpose of ditching the membership card, your iPhone is now all set to start unlocking and locking your car.

Using the iPhone app to unlock the car isn't always the most efficient. There were a few times when it took longer to unlock the car with the iPhone -- as in, it was much faster for me to open my bag, dig out my wallet, and wave the key over the windshield. Once the novelty wore off, I ended up using the keycard about half the time and the iPhone app for the other half.

Zipcar isn't necessarily the cheapest option, but it can be more convenient.
My two-day rental cost about $180, including gas and insurance. And unlike major car rental agencies where you reserve a certain vehicle class, Zipcar lets you call dibs on a specific make and model, so I knew exactly what I was getting. The last time I was in L.A., I used Zipcar to rent a Mini Cooper. Unfortunately no Minis were available on this trip, so I settled for the Toyota Prius.

Zipcar requires a $50 membership, which I auto-renew each year. Unfortunately, I've only used my membership once so far this year, so I haven't yet maximized the value. If I factor in the membership cost, the two-day $180 rental increases to $230 -- pricey. Tack in the $50 cab ride to and from the airport, and you're looking at $330. But I've long believed that traveling on a budget isn't always about finding the cheapest price -- it's also picking the smartest option to reduce your stress level. And since I was traveling to my brother's wedding, I figured it was worth paying a little extra money to preserve my sanity.

The Bottom Line: Consider the Zipcar app as an alternative to your keycard, not a total replacement. I will say the app is good for at least one thing -- making sure that I didn't leave my cell phone in the car (or lose it).

[Photo by Amy Chen]

Test driving the Zipcar iPhone app originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelcar rentalCarRentaliphone appIphoneApptravel technologyTravelTechnologyzipcarzipcar iphone appZipcarIphoneAppFri, 27 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST