Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.gadling.com/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Two North Korean diplomats arrested for smuggling]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/20/two-north-korean-diplomats-arrested-for-smuggling/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/20/two-north-korean-diplomats-arrested-for-smuggling/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/20/two-north-korean-diplomats-arrested-for-smuggling/#commentsFiled under: ,

Smoke 'em if you got 'emTwo North Korean diplomats tried to claim diplomatic immunity when they were arrested in Stockholm for smuggling cigarettes.

The man and woman, who were caught driving their tobacco-filled car off a ferry from Helsinki, have been taken into police custody. Apparently, they have diplomatic status in Russia, but no accreditation in Sweden. Also, they allegedly had 230,000 Russian cigarettes.

"If you come to Sweden and commit a crime, you're just like any other foreign national," Sweden's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Cecilia Julin told Reuters.

What on earth two North Korean diplomats need to smuggle Russian cigarettes from Finland to Sweden for, we have no idea.


[via Reuters]

Two North Korean diplomats arrested for smuggling originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diplomatsnorth koreaNorthKorearussian cigarettesRussianCigarettessmugglingswedenFri, 20 Nov 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cool contest for a free trip to Amsterdam]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/cool-contest-for-a-free-trip-to-amsterdam/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/cool-contest-for-a-free-trip-to-amsterdam/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/cool-contest-for-a-free-trip-to-amsterdam/#commentsFiled under:

Lloyd HotelThe Netherlands Board of Tourism and Lloyd Hotel (pictured) have teamed up to bring one lucky winner (and a buddy) to Amsterdam for free -- well, almost free.

This contest is about sacrifice: they want to know what you would give for a trip to Amsterdam ... literally. To enter, visit Holland's Facebook page and "submit a photo and brief description of something you are willing to trade in return for the trip -- a prized possession that invokes the conceptual, almost art-like spirit of Dutch design."

So, what's free airfare, a three night stay (breakfast included), and a free dinner worth to you? A bicycle? Your remote control? That mug your niece made you in pottery class? Choose wisely; the winner's object will be displayed at Lloyd Hotel.

You have until December 7 to enter. Just snap a photo of what you'd trade and upload it -- what have you got to lose?

Cool contest for a free trip to Amsterdam originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amsterdamcontestfree tripFreeTriplloyd hotelLloydHotelnetherlandsThu, 19 Nov 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[In Japan, they bathe in beaujolais]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/in-japan-they-bathe-in-beaujolais/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/in-japan-they-bathe-in-beaujolais/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/19/in-japan-they-bathe-in-beaujolais/#commentsFiled under: ,

1,780 yenThe Japanese love their beaujolais nouveau so much, they're bathing in it.

At the Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Spa, a hot springs spa resort in Hakone, Japan, they've just celebrated the yearly uncorking of the new wine by pouring bottles and bottles of it into an open-air hot spring bath. The result is happy people in hot pink watered wine stinking of booze and loving it. Photo here.

Much like the way chocolate used all over the body in spas delivers endorphins without the calories, bathing in wine surely delivers antioxidants through absorption. It probably also gets you a little drunk, but just in case, they sip the wine while they're in there, too.

This is an annual tradition (this was the fourth of their little bacchanals), so wine lovers, make your reservations for next year.

[via AFP]

In Japan, they bathe in beaujolais originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beaujolaisbeaujolais nouveauHakonejapanwineThu, 19 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How far will a man drive without asking for directions?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/18/how-far-will-a-man-drive-without-asking-for-directions/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/18/how-far-will-a-man-drive-without-asking-for-directions/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/18/how-far-will-a-man-drive-without-asking-for-directions/#commentsFiled under: ,

Barrier Highway in New South WalesHow far will a man drive without asking for directions? In this particular case, the answer was nine hours. Nine hours!

An 81-year-old Australian man named Eric Steward took a wrong turn in New South Wales country town Yass, reportedly on his way to buy a newspaper, and ended up on a major highway. He drove almost 400 miles before pulling off and asking the advice of a policeman at a petrol station.

"This little old man came up to me saying he was lost. He handed me his mobile and asked if I could speak to his wife," Victorian Police Senior Constable Clayton Smith told Reuters.

Steward claims that after taking the wrong turn, he just went with it: "I just went out on the road to have a drive, a nice peaceful drive."

Nine hours.

cough-cough-Typical.-cough

[via Reuters]

How far will a man drive without asking for directions? originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directionsmenroad tripsRoadTripsWed, 18 Nov 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Laptop desk that fits on your steering wheel ...]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/18/laptop-desk-that-fits-on-your-steering-wheel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/18/laptop-desk-that-fits-on-your-steering-wheel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/18/laptop-desk-that-fits-on-your-steering-wheel/#commentsFiled under: ,

What's the easiest way to shut down your computer? Make a U-turn.
The Laptop Steering Wheel Desk has to be the most irresponsible, dangerous, stupidest invention I've seen in a long time. For just $24.95 plus shipping, you can take texting-while-driving to the next level.

Welcome to the most productive road trip ever! Just think, you could blog, work, Skype, play WOW, forward pictures of puppies and read the news -- all from the comfort of the highway. Imagine what you'd get done on the Trans-Canada.

Seriously now ... it's like these "Cyberguys!" who sell it have no heart. Or they couldn't see the forest for the trees. It does say: "For safety reasons, never use this product while driving." But ... yeah. Like that's gonna happen. And they knew it when they made it. Next time you see a typo in a coworker's e-mail, ask them if they were trying to make a left turn.

And now, onto the greatest thing about this product: The user reviews. They are completely hilarious. Good work America, we love you. Some highlights:

"I use it as a 'mini-bar' when the friends and I go out to the bars. I can quickly fix multiple shots of tequila for myself and the friends as we drive from one bar to the next. We also discovered that if you place a pillow on top of it and turn on the cruise control you can catch quick naps on the interstate." -- T. Meadows "TM"

"I loved my Laptop Steering Wheel Desk so much I got one for my 90yr old mother. She is an avid crossword puzzle fan and now she can work on them while she is driving back and forth from bingo at the senior center." -- S. Kelly

"This has been a total lifesaver. It allows me to prop my sheet music against the wheel, allowing me to play the guitar with both hands while driving." -- Brent A. Nelson

Jamie O'Shaughnessy had the following qualm:
"In several accidents that I have had whilst using this, the airbag causes the laptop screen to slam shut. I've suffered several broken fingers because of this. I have started to look around for airbag finger protection but have not yet found any..."

So, you know, get on that, Cyberguys!.

Many thanks to John Middleton for the tip.

Laptop desk that fits on your steering wheel ... originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drivinglaptopsafetyWed, 18 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[7,000 gold-digging Chinese women apply for a matchmaking cruise]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/17/7-000-gold-digging-chinese-women-apply-for-a-matchmaking-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/17/7-000-gold-digging-chinese-women-apply-for-a-matchmaking-cruise/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/17/7-000-gold-digging-chinese-women-apply-for-a-matchmaking-cruise/#commentsFiled under: ,

I love how rich this man is.The JiaYuan matchmaking service in China is hosting a modern-day Cinderella ball. And friends, it's a juicy one.

Basically, they're taking applications to fill 80 spaces: 40 men and 40 women. The men must be worth over $7 million, and the women, well ... "they will be stringently screened for their looks, physique and intellect, with marriage counselors on hand to judge whether they are 'kind, gentle and tasteful,'" organizer Cheng Yongsheng told the Xinhua news agency, according to Reuters.

Apparently, after last year's event (which includes a banquet, a ball, a five-star hotel and a cruise, all over the course of just two days), ten couples began dating and one couple has even gotten married. It's like a reality show without the cameras.

Over 7,000 women in China have reportedly applied. Seven thousand! If you're "kind, gentle and tasteful," maybe you should, too. But you're going to have to speak Chinese to navigate the website, and you're also going to have to admit to yourself that you're a gold-digger.

View Poll


If you're into this, you should also check out Mike Barish's article on Air New Zealand's matchmaking flight.

Continue reading 7,000 gold-digging Chinese women apply for a matchmaking cruise

7,000 gold-digging Chinese women apply for a matchmaking cruise originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chinagold-diggersmatchmakingmatchmaking cruiseMatchmakingCruiseweirdwomenTue, 17 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Goin' straight to the Wild, Wild West]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/16/goin-straight-to-the-wild-wild-west/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/16/goin-straight-to-the-wild-wild-west/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/16/goin-straight-to-the-wild-wild-west/#commentsFiled under: ,

Scenery to soothe the soulCertain kinds of scenery soothe the soul, and for some, whether they're a cowboy or cowgirl at heart, or they just like to ride horses, or they long for that wide-open imagery so unique to America, watching old westerns over and over again doesn't really scratch the itch.

One company that specializes in touring cowboy-worthy destinations is Wild West Vacations & Travel. They lead tours through Montana, South Dakota, and Wyoming, and offer recreational and educational activities like trail rides, cookouts, gold panning, museums, state and national park tours and even candlelight caving.

They have four specific combo tours, specified as "get-aways" or "family vacations" (so couples looking for a rustic romantic western excursion don't have to worry about screaming kids getting up in their business), which range from $2,895 to $3,575 and include 8-10 nights of well-chosen accommodations and a smattering of the exciting activities above, plus a bunch more.

For those of you who are more "choose your own adventure," they can also arrange stays and amenities for you in South Dakota's Black Hills, Montana's glacier region, or Wyoming for Yellowstone or a Deluxe Dinosaur Dig Getaway.

Visit the website for more information.

Goin' straight to the Wild, Wild West originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>montanasouth dakotaSouthDakotaWild Westwild-westWildWestwyomingMon, 16 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jersey's Wild West]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/16/new-jerseys-wild-west/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/16/new-jerseys-wild-west/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/16/new-jerseys-wild-west/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Wild West CityFancy a trip to the Wild West but don't feel like leaving the Eastern seaboard? Take a trip to New Jersey's Wild West City, a theme park in Netcong, New Jersey (right).

At Wild West City, you and your family can stroll down a replica 1880 Main Street (you can even shoot a film there, just get permission), and while there are no rollercoasters, you can take a ride on a stagecoach, a pony, or a train. The $13.50 admission ($12.50 for kids) includes 22 live shows, all the museums and live historical exhibits, a tour of their Barnyard Zoo, and panning for gold. They also have 18 holes of Old West-themed miniature golf if you are in the mood for some quaint anachronistic leisure. Anachrontastic.

Wild West City is currently in their 51st year, and though this season's over, they have a number of post-season events for both families and the 21-and-over set, including a garage sale (they're bound to have some quirky stuff!) and several concerts.

Your trip to the Wild West may be just west of the Hudson River. You'll need a car to get there, but parking is free. It might be worth getting a Zipcar to get your city kids out of the city.

New Jersey's Wild West originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new jerseyNewJerseyWild Westwild-westWildWestMon, 16 Nov 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[5 ways to thwart homesickness]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/13/5-ways-to-thwart-homesickness/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/13/5-ways-to-thwart-homesickness/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/13/5-ways-to-thwart-homesickness/#commentsFiled under:

Homesickness.As every traveler knows, sacrificing the comforts of home can be difficult. Strange foods, inclement weather, and lying in bed at night without the one you miss the most (your dog) can all lead to the ruination of your vacation or trip. Particularly when you're somewhere very different from your usual surroundings, the pangs of craving the ease of your normal routine and the desire to share your new experiences with loved ones back home can be crippling.

It's a good idea to address the possibility that you may get homesick before you leave. Here are 5 ways to thwart homesickness -- things you can do before and during your trip to help stave off the blues.

1. Photographs. This may seem like a no-brainer, but in this digital age, many of us don't carry photographs with us anymore at all. It's nice to have something tactile with you that you can take out on the top of a mountain or on a boat in the middle of the sea. On the flip side, having a hard copy will keep you from sitting in your room stalking your loved ones' Facebook pages.

Continue reading 5 ways to thwart homesickness

5 ways to thwart homesickness originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homesickhomesicknesstop fiveTopFiveFri, 13 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tied to a chair and robbed in a five-star hotel]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/12/tied-to-a-chair-and-robbed-in-a-five-star-hotel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/12/tied-to-a-chair-and-robbed-in-a-five-star-hotel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/12/tied-to-a-chair-and-robbed-in-a-five-star-hotel/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ritz-Carlton Puerto RicoNo matter who you are or how fancy your hotel is, inviting strangers to your room is a risky business. Just ask Robert J. Anello, a New York Lawyer who was staying at the lovely Ritz-Carlton, San Juan in Puerto Rico's posh Isla Verde district (shown). He was tied up in his room with lamp cords and a necktie just before dawn on Monday, and had $800 cash and his two cell phones stolen.

Associated Press reports, "Police say two of the suspects are women whom the victim invited to his room." A 17-year-old girl was reportedly also in the room, but has not been charged.

According to Caribbean Business PR, this is how it went down:

"'It was at his invitation that they gained access to the room,' said Capt. Samuel Luciano, director of the Police Department's Criminal Investigations Corps in Carolina.

'Then they apparently called the other individuals over to stage the robbery,' Luciano said.

According to published reports, the women tied Anello to a chair with lamp cords and a necktie at knifepoint and then let two male suspects into the room. The men then allegedly broke into the hotel room safe and swiped $800 cash, two cellular phones and four credit cards.

A third man allegedly waited outside the hotel in the getaway car. A hotel employee provided a good description of the vehicle and police nabbed the suspects a short time later."

Anello seems to be okay; he declined medical attention, but as you might guess, it's rough press for the Ritz-Carlton. As with hotels anywhere, they get their share of pool-crashers and other unwanted visitors -- it's to their credit that they were able to identify the criminals and help set justice in motion so quickly.

"The safety and security of our guests is our most important priority and we take very seriously the appropriate measures to protect the safety and security of our guests," says Verona Carter, a rep for Ritz-Carlton's Caribbean & Mexico resorts. They can't really help it when guests make poor decisions (like inviting shady teenage girls to their rooms).

All five suspects, Alejandra Alicea Candelario, 18, Emanuel Alicea Candelario, 21, Julio Alicea Candelario, 24, Francheska Agosto Ríos, 21 and Luis Agosto Ríos, 25, have been jailed, and a preliminary hearing is set for November 30.

[via Huffington Post]

Tied to a chair and robbed in a five-star hotel originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>isla verdepuerto ricoPuertoRicoritz-carltonrobberysafetysan juanSanJuanThu, 12 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Man's new best friend could be a robot]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/10/mans-new-best-friend-could-be-a-robot/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/10/mans-new-best-friend-could-be-a-robot/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/10/mans-new-best-friend-could-be-a-robot/#commentsFiled under: , ,

AIDAThe Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is teaming up with Volkswagen to develop the Affective Intelligent Driving Agent, or "AIDA," an expressive in-car robot which just might bring your driving experience into the new millennium.

We've seen major developments in car computer systems over the past few decades (and had quite enough of our GPS systems shouting at us, no?), but never anything on this level. Sweet-faced AIDA will sit on your dashboard and sympathize with you if you've had a bad day. Seriously. She can learn your facial expressions.

"Over time, the project envisions a kind of symbiotic relationship developing between the driver and Aida, where both parties learn from each other and establish an affective bond," reports The Daily Mail. Just watch the guy in the video below scratching AIDA's head. Could a robot be man's new best friend?

AIDA may be able to help you conserve time and energy by suggesting the best routes and anticipating your needs, like noticing before you do that your gas is low, and knowing where you typically go shopping and what traffic conditions are like in that area. It's like something out of a movie -- but now, it's real. There's no official word yet on how AIDA could help with road trips, but with its (her?) ability to read external cues and internet connection, it (she?) will probably be able to tell you where the best rest stops are, which restaurants are nearby, where there's going to be traffic and more.

Does your dog do that?


[via DailyMail]

Man's new best friend could be a robot originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carsMITroad tripsRoadTripsrobotstechnologyVolkswagenTue, 10 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten Most Badass Animals Native to the USA]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/09/top-ten-most-badass-animals-native-to-the-usa/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/09/top-ten-most-badass-animals-native-to-the-usa/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/09/top-ten-most-badass-animals-native-to-the-usa/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Grrrr ... I want Coca Cola!America may seem civilized to you, as you lock your door and hop on the subway or into the car, then hang around indoors all day. When you go to the zoo, there's a disconnect. Ferocious animals seem to be things that exist behind bars. It's easy to forget that this very country is home to some historically human-killing animals that could totally murder you in your sleep. Depending where you sleep. (But they probably won't.)

Here's our list of the Top Ten Most Badass Animals Native to the USA, a little about their habits, and where in the great United States you're likely to be ambushed by one of them.

1. Polar bears. These big, beautiful beasts employ a method called "still hunting," in which the bear sniffs out its prey's home, then crouches by the door until the prey emerges. Then it crushes their skull. Normally, this prey is a seal, but polar bears have also hunted hunters and campers -- this guy while he was sleeping in his tent (warning: graphic). Though polar bears are listed as a vulnerable species (likely to become endangered), they are still roaming Alaska. And they don't just want Coca Cola.

2. Rattlesnakes. Normally, rattlesnakes kill small animals, but anyone who's been to the Southwest knows: if you hear that rattle, you'd best be moving along. And by "moving along," I mean "running for your life." Their hemotoxic or neurotoxic (depending on the type) venom can kill you in horrendous ways, including respiratory paralysis. Check out this story from a guy who was bitten by a rattler when he was 13. Word to the wise: if the snake's rattle gets wet, it won't make any sound, so watch out during the rain. Rattlesnakes have been reported in many states, but keep an extra eye out in California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico. And while you're down there, stay away from fatally poisonous water moccasins (the world's only semi-aquatic viper) and coral snakes, too.

3. Coyotes. Just last month, according to Telegraph.co.uk, woman in Canada was mauled and killed by two coyotes, while "hiking alone on a trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, in Nova Scotia." Coyotes are typically reported in the Southwest, but have also been sighted in Illinois, Wisconsin, Oregon, New Jersey, and all over New England. You can find them living in deserts, forests, plains, or even in icy regions like Alaska. Basically, these guys (and ladies) can live almost anywhere. Their diet is 90 percent mammals, which you may have noticed you are. They'll get you on the ground, then bite/break your neck. According to Wikipedia, coyote attacks have been increasing in California since 1998.

Continue reading Top Ten Most Badass Animals Native to the USA

Top Ten Most Badass Animals Native to the USA originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animalscarnivoresUSAMon, 09 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How to sneak a third bag onto a plane]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/05/how-to-sneak-a-third-bag-onto-a-plane/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/05/how-to-sneak-a-third-bag-onto-a-plane/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/05/how-to-sneak-a-third-bag-onto-a-plane/#commentsFiled under:

Annie Scott in a SCOTTEVESTWe all try to travel light and avoid those pesky baggage-check fees, but it can be difficult to cram all your goods into your suitcase and "small personal item" (which, for most people I know, has become a pretty big bag). So, when I received a SCOTTEVEST/SeV jacket to try, my hope was that it would be the ultimate, wearable, third carry-on of which I've been dreaming.

The "technology-enabled clothing" from scottevest.com has a lot of secret pockets, from attractive casual men's shirts with 3 hidden compartments to superjackets like the Scott Jordan Signature System combo (which our own Scott reviewed last September here), which features a fleece and jacket with a total of 52 pockets, many of them specific to particular items like water bottles or pens, and a patented "Personal Area Network for earbud wire management." The jackets also have a "Weight Management System" which helps distribute the weight of all your worldly belongings evenly on your shoulders.

You probably have the same question I did: "How much can it really carry?" Not only could this jacket potentially save you money at the bag check, but it could also mean no more carrying a bag (or dreaded fanny pack) while sight-seeing, or even replace a backpack on a hike.

I decided to test out the 18-pocket, $120 SCOTTEVEST Women's Essential Travel Jacket by attempting to load everything from my gigantic handbag into it (thus freeing up my hands for a whole other "small personal item"). Check out my findings in the gallery below.

Gallery: Can the SCOTTEVEST be your third carry-on?

The Essential Travel Jacket for WomenThe ChallengeYes!Act casual.It's comfortable, but you'll look a little odd.

How to sneak a third bag onto a plane originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carry-oncarryongearjacketouterwearscottevestsecret pocketsSecretPocketsThu, 05 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten Reasons that Road Trips Suck]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/04/top-ten-reasons-that-road-trips-suck/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/04/top-ten-reasons-that-road-trips-suck/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/04/top-ten-reasons-that-road-trips-suck/#commentsFiled under: ,

Road trip hits the fan.Whether you're trying to save money or shrink your vacation's carbon footprint, you probably know, deep down, that road trips suck. There are definitely good things about the open road; the unexpected detours, the wind in your hair (or exhaust in your face, eyes) ... but for the most part, sitting in traffic in a closed vehicle for untold hours with people you may or may not normally tolerate for long stretches would probably be one of Dante's rings of Inferno, had he thought of it. Road trips suck. Just in time for Thanksgiving, let's go ahead and talk about it. It might make you feel better.

Top Ten Reasons that Road Trips Suck

1. Time. Driving takes forever. You're cramped up in this tiny little space (especially if someone's behind you and demanding leg room of any kind), and even if you speed, you will probably only end up shaving like fifteen minutes off of your trip -- that's if you don't get arrested. A flight from New York to LA is about 6 hours and 45 minutes. The drive? According to Mapquest, it's 42 hours and 45 minutes from Times Square to Laurel Canyon and Sunset Boulevard. And you can never have those 42 hours and 45 minutes back.

2. The whole car has to pull over if one person has to "go." It's not fair. The whole trip has to stop because someone had a Mountain Dew. Rest stops have gotten better over the years, but it's inevitable that you will end up at the one with townies who look like they want to bash your head against the condom dispenser and "Beware Cat Burglar" on the back of the restroom stalls.

3. It wrecks the car. Road trips may stress you out. Well, they also put stress on your car. The miles depreciate its resale value one by one. Your vehicle could also break down, leaving you stranded and having to fly or rent, or worse yet, you could just be stuck knowing that "my car has never run the same since that road trip." A lot of people will tell you to make sure to get your car serviced before your trip. Ever been to an auto body shop that can't find something wrong? Me neither. There goes whatever cash you were saving by not flying.

Continue reading Top Ten Reasons that Road Trips Suck

Top Ten Reasons that Road Trips Suck originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>road triproad tripsRoadTripRoadTripstop 10top tenTop10TopTenWed, 04 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rosetta Stone TOTALe - Can you really learn a language online?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/03/rosetta-stone-totale-can-you-really-learn-a-language-online/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/03/rosetta-stone-totale-can-you-really-learn-a-language-online/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/03/rosetta-stone-totale-can-you-really-learn-a-language-online/#commentsFiled under: ,

Shen me?Rosetta Stone contacted me and (full disclosure) sent me a free trial of their new Totale program. This online-based language learning system includes:
  • Social networking capabilities
  • Coach-led practice sessions
  • Engaging language games and access to native speakers
  • Encouragement from customer success agents
But can you really learn a language online? This is what I set to find out, because quick online language learning would be really helpful for travelers like you and me.

I chose to receive the Mandarin Chinese course, as I have four years of Mandarin under my belt. I wanted to be able to properly assess the way the language was taught. I donned and tested my headset (which they make very easy), and jumped in to Unit 1, Lesson 1.

My immediate reaction was that, firstly, it's really fun. The program uses photos and tries to get you to intuitively understand the subjects, for example, that one photo is of a young girl, and the next photo is a group of adult women. The system says the words in Chinese and displays them on the screen, and you click the picture to which you think the phrase corresponds. If you're right, you get a satisfying "Ding!" of approval. It makes you feel smart.

When it came to the computer recognizing my speech, I was very impressed by the speed at which I could speak and still be understood (and really glad I don't have roommates). One thing that concerned me about the program was the reading/writing. Chinese doesn't use regular letters (though a Pin Yin system of letters is widely used in teaching the language), nor do they even have an alphabet. Could this package teach anyone to read and write? I'll come back to that.

Continue reading Rosetta Stone TOTALe - Can you really learn a language online?

Rosetta Stone TOTALe - Can you really learn a language online? originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>languagerosetta stoneRosettaStonetotaleTue, 03 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Empire State Building colors explained!]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/30/the-empire-state-building-colors-explained/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/30/the-empire-state-building-colors-explained/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/30/the-empire-state-building-colors-explained/#commentsFiled under:

The Empire State Building aglow in a mystery color combinationOn your last visit to New York, did you notice the colors of the Empire State Building? And, when they changed the next night, did you find yourself wondering what the devil was going on?

You're not alone. Most New Yorkers feel the same way -- we look up at the glowing wash of color and go "hmm ... is that ... for a sporting event? Is it a random national holiday today?"

We think about it, we ask each other; but often, we're stumped and never do find out the truth.

No more! Our queries are finally addressed here on WhatColorIsTheEmpireStateBuilding.com. Not only will it tell you what color the Empire State Building is today (in case you're out of town or it's daytime), but it will tell you why.

You can even RSS it. Thank you, internet!

(Today it's orange, black and white for Halloween.)

The Empire State Building colors explained! originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>empire state buildingnew yorknew york cityNewYorkNewYorkCityNYCFri, 30 Oct 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Midnight Rates for last minute guests in NYC]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/midnight-rates-for-last-minute-guests-in-nyc/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/midnight-rates-for-last-minute-guests-in-nyc/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/midnight-rates-for-last-minute-guests-in-nyc/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Affinia ManhattanHere's an interesting idea from the folks at The Affinia Manhattan: Cheaper rates late at night.

NYC commuters know that it's sometimes hard to wrench yourself out of the city in time for that last train, and sometimes, well, you're just too tired to make the trip; or maybe you've had a bit to drink and you'd rather not drive.

Head over to The Affinia, conveniently located right across from Madison Square Garden and close to both Penn Station and Times Square. They're currently offering special rates for rooms booked after 10:00 PM from just $159.00. That's $100 off the regular price -- and what we like about it is that it's fair. Why should you pay the same as a guest who checked in at 3 and took advantage of all the hotel's amenities when you just need a place to crash?

Just show up late at The Affinia Manahttan (371 Seventh Avenue) and ask for the Midnight Rates deal -- go in on it with whichever buddy kept you out so late for extra savings.

Midnight Rates for last minute guests in NYC originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>affiniahotel dealsHotelDealsNYCWed, 28 Oct 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[So, you think you're tough? How about a vertical marathon?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/so-you-think-youre-tough-how-about-a-vertical-marathon/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/so-you-think-youre-tough-how-about-a-vertical-marathon/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/28/so-you-think-youre-tough-how-about-a-vertical-marathon/#commentsFiled under: ,

73 Stories of GloryYou may be able to run 26 miles, but can you climb 73 stories? Singapore's Swissötel is holding its annual vertical marathon next month to, once again, test human strength and endurance.

On November 22, 1,600 stair masters from across the world will gather in Singapore to race up 73 stories of glory. This year's race will include 12 of Singapore's top youth athletes as competitors, and there is an assortment of age and gender groupings for you to try and conquer.

1,336 steps. I don't even do that on a gym machine. The world record is currently held by German stair climber Thomas Dold, who made it to the top in 6 minutes and 52 seconds in 2008.

There's also a little something new this year:

"A brand-new category called the Lovebirds' Challenge will witness more than 80 pairs of lovers taking their relationships to unexplored new heights, with potential marriage proposals awaiting atop the helipad, upon completion of the vertical race."

Would you climb 73 stories to get someone to marry you? That's love.

Adding insult to injury, the run takes place at 7:00 AM (but don't worry, that's 7 PM in New York). Click here for more information.

So, you think you're tough? How about a vertical marathon? originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marathonsingaporeswissotelvertical marathonWed, 28 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten All-Time Scariest Travel-Themed Movies]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/27/top-ten-all-time-scariest-travel-themed-movies/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/27/top-ten-all-time-scariest-travel-themed-movies/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/27/top-ten-all-time-scariest-travel-themed-movies/#commentsFiled under: ,

AHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
Halloween is a-comin'. In the mood for some scary movies? So are we! That's why we've made a list of the Top Ten All-Time Scariest Travel-Themed Movies for you. Don't worry, we won't spoil the endings, just give you the gist and the Netflix links. Watch at your own risk; you may never travel again.

The Top Ten All-Time Scariest Travel-Themed Movies

1. The Exorcist -- It all goes to Hell (somewhat literally) when Father Merrin is leading an archaeological dig in Iraq and pulls Pazuzu out of the sand. Be careful what you dig up on your trips to ancient cities!

2. Psycho -- Gadling does not recommend the showers at the Bates Motel.

3. The Shining -- This Kubrick classic starring Jack Nicholson takes place in a hotel which gets snowed in for the winter. All hotel hallways have a similar look to them, and all will feel a little more dangerous when you've seen what little Danny sees.

4. The Strangers -- The most recent scary flick on our list (2008) stars Liv Tyler and Australian supermodel Gemma Ward. You know that isolated vacation home, or perhaps cabin, that you long to escape to? Watch this first. (Or don't.)

Continue reading Top Ten All-Time Scariest Travel-Themed Movies

Top Ten All-Time Scariest Travel-Themed Movies originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halloweenmoviesTop 10Top TenTop10TopTenTue, 27 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vintage clothes shopping across America - Don't go without these tips]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/26/vintage-clothes-shopping-across-america-dont-go-without-these/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/26/vintage-clothes-shopping-across-america-dont-go-without-these/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/26/vintage-clothes-shopping-across-america-dont-go-without-these/#commentsFiled under: ,

Vintage Clothes Shopping
Some people think the best shopping in America is in New York City. It's true, we have all the Diors and Guccis you could want, but our vintage shopping can be just as expensive as designer shopping, which, if you ask me, just ain't right. Sure, we have used-clothing shops like Beacon's Closet in Brooklyn, and Cheap Jack's (which has truly fabulous vintage clothing, but is not all that cheap), but what most savvy New Yorkers know is that vintage clothes can be bought much more inexpensively in other states, or at least upstate. In New York City, the demand for vintage clothes is high, and sellers know when they have a great item -- and they price it accordingly.

In my travels across America I've always found the very best vintage clothing, shoes and even jewelry in small towns, where the cost of living (and demand) is low. A size 2 vintage dress priced at $150 might sell in a day in New York City, but in the middle of say, southwest Michigan, it might never leave the mannequin in the window. Jewelry enthusiasts might have an eye for a setting that a used-clothing store owner in the middle of Kentucky might not notice; and in some rare cases, designer labels are all but ignored, and you'll find Prada on the same rack as Express. There is no Antiques Roadshow for clothing, but if there were, contestants would flock to tiny shops two hours from nowhere.

Salvation Army and Goodwill are also not to be ignored once you're out in small towns, as in some cases, these are the only places for miles around where people can bring their used stuff.

With that info covered, here are five tips for great vintage shopping -- specifically for those out-of-the-way towns you pass on your way to Grandma's for Thanksgiving.

Continue reading Vintage clothes shopping across America - Don't go without these tips

Vintage clothes shopping across America - Don't go without these tips originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>road tripshoppingvintage-americaMon, 26 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST