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[Photo of the Day (11.8.09)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/08/photo-of-the-day-11-8-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/08/photo-of-the-day-11-8-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/08/photo-of-the-day-11-8-09/#commentsFiled under: ,

Anyone looking for a taste Caribbean colonial charm should head for Puerto Rico's Old San Juan. It's an area with loads of atmosphere - brightly colored pastel mansions, cobblestone streets, and a surprising street art scene. I particularly liked the bold colors and gritty charm of this photo in Old San Juan by Flickr user robertrexdotcom. It reminded me of my visit last year, wandering the quiet streets.

Want your pics considered for Gadling's Photo of the Day? Submit your best ones here.

Photo of the Day (11.8.09) originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 08 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>old san juanOldSanJuanpuerto ricoPuertoRicosan juanSanJuanstop signStopSignSun, 08 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A taste of Seoul, Korea: Three nights]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/05/a-taste-of-seoul-korea-three-nights/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/05/a-taste-of-seoul-korea-three-nights/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/05/a-taste-of-seoul-korea-three-nights/#commentsFiled under: ,



Korean food is hot! "Spicy" is probably the most prominent flavor in Korean cooking, but it's also a sign of the increasing popularity of Korean cuisine. Everywhere you turn these days, it seems like someone is talking about Korean food, from New York's superstar chef David Chang to the insanely popular Kogi food truck in Los Angeles. But for all the buzz Korean food is getting among eaters, many of us know little beyond the Korean basics of barbecue and Kimchi. What exactly do they like to eat in Korea? And why is everyone so obsessed with the food there?

During my recent visit to Seoul, I decided to investigate. Armed with only my camera and an empty stomach, I dived head-first into the sizzling center of Seoul's food scene, curious to discover what Koreans liked to eat. But before I started, I needed to find some help. As any local will tell you, eating in Korea is a communal experience, with dishes passed and shared among friends. To help me navigate my way through the bewildering array of Korean food choices, I met up with three of Seoul's top food experts: Dan from Seoul Eats, Joe of ZenKimchi, and Jennifer from FatManSeoul. Over the course of several meals with my hosts, I began to get a sense of the surprising, subtle and savory flavors that make Korean food so special. Want to get a taste of what Korean food is all about? Join along as we take a big bite of Korean cuisine - click below for more.

Gallery: Eating in Seoul

OdengCorn Ice Cream SandwichShort rib soupGrilled pork bellyGrilling = smokey clothing

Continue reading A taste of Seoul, Korea: Three nights

A taste of Seoul, Korea: Three nights originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bibimbapbulgogicuisineculinaryfoodkorean barbecueKoreanBarbecueseoulsouthbysoutheastThu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[South by Southeast: In Bangkok? Head to the mall!]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/03/south-by-southeast-in-bangkok-head-to-the-mall/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/03/south-by-southeast-in-bangkok-head-to-the-mall/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/03/south-by-southeast-in-bangkok-head-to-the-mall/#commentsFiled under: ,

Bangkok means many things to travelers. The backpacker ghetto of Khao San Road. The sublime temples of Wat Pho and Wat Phra Kaew. The seedy go-go bars of Patpong. But after visiting this crazy Southeast Asian capital for the first time, I'd like to suggest a new highlight in Bangkok: the malls.

You're probably going to tell me I'm a spoiled Westerner, too acclimated to the comforts of home to get my hands dirty with some authentic Thai culture. But, perhaps it's time we all take a closer look at what Bangkok is really like these days. The famed "anything goes" destination of old is still there, hiding down back alleyways and puttering along on Bangkok's diesel spewing tuk tuks. But there's also an entirely new Bangkok under construction. An emerging city of modern mass transportation and shiny new temples of capitalism.

So what is it about Bangkok's malls that makes them so special? Like many malls back home, they've got all the usual amenities - the department stores, the food courts and the electronics boutiques. But there's also plenty that makes Bangkok malls entirely unique: outstanding and inexpensive food courts filled with authentic Thai cuisine, special events and top-notch cultural institutions. Sound interesting? Here's three reasons why you should head to the mall during your next visit to Bangkok. Click below.

Continue reading South by Southeast: In Bangkok? Head to the mall!

South by Southeast: In Bangkok? Head to the mall! originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air conditioningAirConditioningbangkokemporium shopping complexEmporiumShoppingComplexfood courtFoodCourtmallnoodlesshoppingsouthbysoutheastsweatytcdcTue, 03 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the Day (11.1.09)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/01/photo-of-the-day-11-1-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/01/photo-of-the-day-11-1-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/01/photo-of-the-day-11-1-09/#commentsFiled under: , ,


I'm feeling particularly ethereal today, and Flickr user cmvoekel's photo at the Tate Modern in London does a good job of capturing my mood. The geometric patterns of light, the shadows and the silhouettes of the people all suggest a scene that looks downright "otherworldly."

Want your pics considered for Gadling's Photo of the Day? Submit your best ones here.

Photo of the Day (11.1.09) originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abstractlondonmodern artModernArttate modernTateModernSun, 01 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[South by Southeast: The Tao of long-term travel]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/27/south-by-southeast-the-tao-of-long-term-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/27/south-by-southeast-the-tao-of-long-term-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/27/south-by-southeast-the-tao-of-long-term-travel/#commentsFiled under:

Welcome back to Gadling's newest series on Southeast Asia, South by Southeast. Long-term travel is a topic with considerable baggage, both in the travel community and the world at large. For those tied to life's obligations - jobs, children, mortgages - checking out to spend a few months (or years) on the road is irresponsible. For those righteously living out of a backpack on the other side of the world - nodding their heads smugly at their "enlightened lifestyle" - the people back home are afraid to take chances.

But both sides of this debate get it wrong. No matter your perspective on the issue, the decision to take a long-term trip must be grounded in personal circumstances and aligned with reality. To do it any other way is to fall victim to the same old travel cliches.

So what is long term travel really about? And how is it different than a vacation? The answer to this question is complicated - there are as many justifications for long-term trips as their are places to visit. But in order to give some perspective to the topic, let's take a look at some of my own reasons for taking a long-term trip. Whether you empathize with me or think I'm an idiot, it will help explain why long-term travel isn't just "another vacation." Click below to see why...

Continue reading South by Southeast: The Tao of long-term travel

South by Southeast: The Tao of long-term travel originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argumentdebatelocalslong-term travelLong-termTravelluxury of timeLuxuryOfTimephilosophysouthbysoutheastsoutheast asiaSoutheastAsiaspontaneousTue, 27 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the Day (10.25.09)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/25/photo-of-the-day-10-25-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/25/photo-of-the-day-10-25-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/25/photo-of-the-day-10-25-09/#commentsFiled under: ,

A famous landmark need not be the subject of your travel photos. As Flickr user justin fain demonstrates in today's choice, sometimes an alternate perspective is all that's needed to make your photo shine. The wonderful texture of the binoculars, coupled with the blurry silhouette of the lighthouse in the back, lend this image a great sense of depth and visual interest. You almost feel like you're right there on the seaside, ready to take a look for yourself.

Want your pics considered for Gadling's Photo of the Day? Submit your best ones here.

Photo of the Day (10.25.09) originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 25 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>binocularslighthousemacromaineportlandSun, 25 Oct 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[South by Southeast: Welcome to Seoul]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/20/south-by-southeast-welcome-to-seoul/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/20/south-by-southeast-welcome-to-seoul/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/20/south-by-southeast-welcome-to-seoul/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Seoul is not in Southeast Asia. But for a budget traveler like myself headed on to Southeast Asia, this South Korean capital has provided a perfect introduction to my trip. First-time Asian visitors "headed Southeast" often start in Tokyo, the neon Asian mega-capital of food, shopping and nightlife. Yet Seoul matches the urban amenities of Japan's uber-city pound-for-pound, all at a fraction of the price. When you add in Seoul's welcoming and friendly locals, surprising natural beauty and top-notch culinary scene, you've got the makings of a emerging traveler's hotspot.

So if you're planning a visit to Southeast Asia, skip that Tokyo layover and arrange a stopover in Seoul. Not only does South Korean carrier Korean Air offer convenient Asia connections from Chicago, New York, Dallas, Washington DC and Atlanta, it's also a great place to get over your jetlag and pickup last-minute travel supplies before heading onwards. Whether you're just passing through or end up hanging out stay a few days, you'll find yourself surprised and delighted with just how much Seoul has to offer.

Over the past few days here in Seoul, I've found plenty of reasons to justify sticking around. Ready to investigate this tourist-friendly, bustling Korean capital? Let's take a closer look at Seoul and review the basics of your visit? Click below for more.

Continue reading South by Southeast: Welcome to Seoul

South by Southeast: Welcome to Seoul originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bukhansan national parkBukhansanNationalParkdmzfish marketFishMarketfood marketFoodMarketgwangjanggyeongbokgunggyeongdonghong kongHongKongkimchilayovernoryanginseoulsouthbysoutheaststopovertokyoTue, 20 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Thailand Hitler billboard draws controversy]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/19/thailand-hitler-billboard-draws-controversy/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/19/thailand-hitler-billboard-draws-controversy/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/19/thailand-hitler-billboard-draws-controversy/#commentsFiled under: ,

A Hitler billboard in Thailand promoting a local wax museum has locals and foreign governments up in arms. The billboard campaign, which features photos of famous dead people, included a photo of Hitler making the infamous Nazi salute along with the tagline "Hitler is not dead." The ad was part of a promotion for Louis Tussaud's Waxworks, a wax museum based in Pattaya.

Since the billboard's unveiling two weeks ago it has caused a firestorm of complaints, prompting museum officials to have it covered and to apologize for the offense. Both the German and Israeli embassies in Thailand filed formal complaints. Wax museum director Somporn Naksuetrong has emphasized the campaign was not meant to glorify the Nazi leader.

Not surprisingly, this isn't the first Adolf Hitler wax museum incident to draw controversy. In 2008 a German man rushed into the new Madame Tussaud's in Berlin, ripping the head off the museum's Hitler figurine and shouting "Never war again!"

The use of Hitler's likeness, whether as a wax dummy or in advertising, never fails to attract criticism. But that hasn't stopped museums and brands from capitalizing on Hitler to draw attention, a decision that almost always ends poorly. Anyone hoping to draw tourist dollars from Nazi imagery in the future would do well to keep this in mind.

Gallery: Top Ten Strangest Hotel Guest Requests

Can you turn down the ocean?Can I get a New York Cheesecake? From New York?My dog needs her own room. Can I have a bonfire on the terrace?Can you cut holes in my sheets?

Thailand Hitler billboard draws controversy originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adolf hitlerAdolfHitlerbangkokberlincontroversyhitlermuseumnazipattayasalutewax museumWaxMuseumMon, 19 Oct 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the Day (10.18.09)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/18/photo-of-the-day-10-18-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/18/photo-of-the-day-10-18-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/18/photo-of-the-day-10-18-09/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Today's Photo of the Day pick comes to us from Flickr user Walker Starling, who's provided us with a beautiful example of macro photography. The crystal-clear detail of the flower in front is contrasted with the soft focus of everything behind it, creating a beautiful dream-like visual effect. The colors are great too: the soft purple of the petals, surrounded by clumps of punchy yellow and vibrant green all combine to create a beautiful landscape. If you didn't know it was a photo, you might be fooled into thinking it was painted by one of the Impressionists.

Want to have your travel photo considered for Gadling's Photo of the Day? Submit your best shots here.

Photo of the Day (10.18.09) originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 18 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flowersimpressionismmacromonetsoft focusSoftFocuswildflowersSun, 18 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[South by Southeast: How to budget for long-term travel]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/12/south-by-southeast-budgeting-for-long-term-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/12/south-by-southeast-budgeting-for-long-term-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/12/south-by-southeast-budgeting-for-long-term-travel/#commentsFiled under: ,

Welcome back to Gadling's new series about Southeast Asia, South by Southeast. Starting in October, I'll be spending the next four months traveling through this much-discussed destination. But as exciting as it is to travel for several months, you can't just get up and leave overnight. Medical arrangements must be made, backpacks selected and most importantly, you'll need to do some budgeting.

Perhaps the most daunting obstacle for anyone considering this type of long-term trip is deciding how much money to bring. It's not an easy question to answer - search around online and you're likely to find all kinds of responses, ranging from the extravagant to the frugal. So how does one create a budget for long-term travel? And how in the world do you save up the money to make it work? Let's take a closer look at how to do it, in five steps.

1: Decide Where You're Going
The most important factor in your budget is the decision of where to go. Although you don't have to pick a destination when you're planning a trip, it helps to choose regions you want to visit and consider general costs. As a rule of thumb, travel in North America and Western Europe is most expensive, whereas South America, Southeast Asia or Africa are far cheaper. For my trip to Southeast Asia, I took the region's cheaper cost of living into account, deciding I could afford to stay longer and stretch my dollars farther.

It's also worth considering how much you plan to move around. Will you be visiting multiple regions of the world? Or will your trip cover just a few neighboring countries? If you only have a week to see all of Southeast Asia, the flights are going to get expensive quick. But if you're able to take your time, you might be able to save lots of money on cheaper bus, boat and train rides.

Continue reading South by Southeast: How to budget for long-term travel

South by Southeast: How to budget for long-term travel originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ATMbudgetbudgetingcalculatorestimatesfinancesfinanciallong term travelLongTermTravelmoneypreppreparationround the worldRoundTheWorldrtwsouthbysoutheastsoutheast asiaSoutheastAsiaspreadsheetMon, 12 Oct 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the Day (10.11.09)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/11/photo-of-the-day-10-11-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/11/photo-of-the-day-10-11-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/11/photo-of-the-day-10-11-09/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Truly great architecture has its own personality. The best buildings are not merely structures with walls, doors and windows. They tell you something about how they were made and the character of the places they were built. When I saw Flickr user scottmschutlz's playful photo, I immediately knew it was taken at Gaudi's Casa Milà in Barcelona. The fluid curves of the cement and quirky human-like face of this sculpture tip their hat to the whimsical, artistic traditions of this favorite Spanish city.

Want your pics considered for Gadling's Photo of the Day? Submit your best ones here.

Photo of the Day (10.11.09) originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 11 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturebarcelonabuildingcasa milaCasaMilacataloniacatalunyagaudila pedreraLaPedrerasagrada familiaSagradaFamiliaSun, 11 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[South by Southeast: New directions in Southeast Asia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/09/south-x-southeast-new-directions-in-southeast-asia/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/09/south-x-southeast-new-directions-in-southeast-asia/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/09/south-x-southeast-new-directions-in-southeast-asia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



What is it about Southeast Asia that so captivates our attention? For many Westerners, Southeast Asia has attained an identity of exoticism and escape, enchanting travelers as a destination "off the map" of global tourism. It's a myth readily fed by popular culture. From Graham Greene's The Quiet American to Alex Garland's The Beach we're painted a picture of a magical world, unsullied by the realities of real life - and we've taken the bait, hook, line and sinker.

Southeast Asia, we're told, is where we'll go to forge new identities. We'll quit our jobs back home, find a bungalow on the beach in Thailand, and live out our days drinking 25-cent beers, sunning ourselves under a palm tree. Our problems back home? Distant memory. For anyone struggling with the vagaries of career and post-collegiate life, it's a powerful fantasy, bandied about during late-night drinking sessions or anytime life becomes "too much of a drag."

But what's it really like to travel through Southeast Asia, circa 2009? Does our fantasy match the reality? Though plenty is left to explore, the romanticized destination of deserted beaches and bumpy bus rides is experiencing a dramatic shift, further connecting itself to global tourism and the world economy. Luxury boutiques dot the streets of "communist" Vietnam. Thousands of travelers show up for Full Moon Parties on the beaches of Koh Pha Ngan. Even Lonely Planet's hugely popular Southeast Asia on a Shoestring, the defacto "bible" for independent travelers, is nearly 25 years old and 14 Editions in print. How does the region today look after this huge influx of new money and visitors?

Continue reading South by Southeast: New directions in Southeast Asia

South by Southeast: New directions in Southeast Asia originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alex garlandAlexGarlandbackpackerbackpackingdigital nomadDigitalNomadflashpackerflashpackinggraham greeneGrahamGreenelonely planetLonelyPlanetlong term travelLongTermTravelnomadpost-collegequiet americanQuietAmericanrolf pottsRolfPottssouthbysoutheastsoutheast asiasoutheast asia on a shoestringSoutheastAsiaSoutheastAsiaOnAShoestringsxsethe beachTheBeachvagabondvagabondingyellow bibleYellowBibleFri, 09 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The 11 coolest flags in the world?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/08/the-11-coolest-flags-in-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/08/the-11-coolest-flags-in-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/08/the-11-coolest-flags-in-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The travelers here at Gadling have seen a lot of world flags. We've seen the world's flags made out of food. We were also amused by this opinionated list ranking the world's best and worst flags. But we just can't seem to get enough. In fact, in the interest of your ongoing and insatiable need for world flag amusement, we've stumbled across yet another list of the "11 Coolest Flags Ever" and wanted to share it (just because we like you).

This new list has no consistent methodology for selection. And some of the flags represent countries and empires that no longer exist. But leave that aside for a moment and simply admire the sheer visual awesomeness of the flags that were selected. In addition to the bear holding the axe shown above (Yaroslavl Oblast in Russia), this highly scientific list includes a flag with a parrot (Dominica), an flag with an AK-47 and a book (Mozambique) and of course the flag of a guy getting beheaded (Benin Empire - don't mess with them).

Each of these off-the-wall official banners raises an interesting question. What exactly does a flag represent? Does it tell the story of a country's history and/or creation? Do the colors of the flag have symbolic significance? Perhaps flags don't mean anything at all - as you can see from Libya's flag, sometimes you just don't even bother. Make sure to check out the list and leave us a comment if you know of any "cooler" flags, either historical or current.

The 11 coolest flags in the world? originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ak-47bear with axeBearWithAxebeheadedbenin empireBeninEmpireflagsgreenlistnational emblemNationalEmblemsymbolsyaroslavl oblastYaroslavlOblastThu, 08 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Zealand surfer escapes tsunami]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/07/new-zealand-surfer-escapes-tsunami/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/07/new-zealand-surfer-escapes-tsunami/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/07/new-zealand-surfer-escapes-tsunami/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Surfers are constantly on the hunt for the "big one" - that epic wave they'll be able to tell their grand kids about. But for New Zealand surfer Chris Nel, that epic wave turned into a nightmare. Nel was out surfing with five friends in the Samoan Islands last week when a catastrophic 8.3 magnitude earthquake struck, sending a towering tsunami of water rumbling his way.

Before they even realized it, the ocean around them was rushing back out to sea, sucking Chris and his friends along with it. Chris describes the scary feeling of doom as he was pulled towards the giant mass of water, powerless to do anything but ride out the waves. For the next 45 minutes, Nel and his friends struggled to stay afloat in the pounding tsunami surge, worried they would be smashed into the beach or jungle. Finally, the friends caught a lucky break, scrambling to safety back on land in between surges. However, the surf camp where he was staying was completely destroyed. Chris returned to New Zealand wearing nothing but a pair of jeans found in the jungle.

For all the tragedy that came from last week's earthquakes and tsunamis, it's heartening to hear of some good news. Despite the increasing availability of tsunami warning systems in the Pacific Ocean, it's not likely Nel or his friends would have even had time to get out of the water, even if they learned of the wave in advance. Like any outdoor sport, surfing is not without its occasional risk - sometimes you just happen to get lucky.

New Zealand surfer escapes tsunami originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disasterearthquakesurvivalsurvivortsunamiWed, 07 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 travel-themed 80's songs]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/06/top-10-travel-themed-80s-songs/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/06/top-10-travel-themed-80s-songs/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/06/top-10-travel-themed-80s-songs/#commentsFiled under: ,

Something happened to songwriters during the 80's. Synthesizers became required instruments, hair got bigger and most importantly, songwriters were increasingly interested in the theme of travel. Why was travel suddenly such an important subject? Though there's no one right answer, the reasons for the glut of travel-themed 80's songs are many, including the influence of globalization, the rise of international pop stars and, of course, because the bands just wanted to seem cool and more worldly. Isn't that always the best reason?

With so many great travel-themed 80's pop songs out there, it was only natural for Gadling to compile a list of our top ten favorites. After hours of intensive polling, debating and arguing, we're happy to present you with the following gems. How many do you remember? Think you know the best? Take a look below:

80's Travel Song #10: The Bangles - Walk Like an Egyptian

How does one "walk like an Egyptian" you might ask? Well, if you were The Bangles, it involved some awkward imitations of ancient hieroglyphics. Though they never do the dance in their video, the song kicked off a wave of hieroglyphics imitators, all turned sideways in tribute. So did the band ever visit Egypt? Were they avid archaeology buffs? I'm afraid the answer is probably no. But hey, the dance makes you look pretty cool. Make sure to show it off the next time you find yourself on the streets of Cairo!

Continue reading Top 10 travel-themed 80's songs

Top 10 travel-themed 80's songs originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1980s80sb-52sbanglesbig countryBigCountrybilly oceanBillyOceancaribbean queenCaribbeanQueencoming to americaComingToAmericaduran duranDuranDuraneightiesgo-gosland down underLandDownUndermen at workMenAtWorkmurray headMurrayHeadmusicmusic videosMusicVideosneil diamondNeilDiamondone night in bangkokOneNightInBangkokrioroamtop tenTopTentototravel songsTravelSongsvacationwalk like an egyptianWalkLikeAnEgyptianTue, 06 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the Day (10.4.09)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/04/photo-of-the-day-10-4-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/04/photo-of-the-day-10-4-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/04/photo-of-the-day-10-4-09/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



What year is it? Based on a first glance at Flickr user Cazimiro's photo, you could be forgiven for thinking you've been transported to some kind of "space station of the future." The shot was actually taken inside Washington DC's Union Station metro stop, but it feels almost otherworldly. The eerie pink glow of the lights, the blurry silhouettes of passengers and the geometric pattern on the ceiling all lend a sense of visual vertigo to the scene, making it feel at once strange yet familiar.

Want your pics considered for Gadling's Photo of the Day? Submit your best ones here.

Photo of the Day (10.4.09) originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 04 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>subwayunion stationUnionStationwashington dcWashingtonDcSun, 04 Oct 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Is there a Long Tail for travel?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/04/is-there-a-long-tail-for-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/04/is-there-a-long-tail-for-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/04/is-there-a-long-tail-for-travel/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There's been plenty of discussion about author Chris Anderson's Long Tail theory since it was first proposed in 2004. The theory, which suggests selling niche products can be just as profitable for businesses as the huge blockbusters, has been attracting plenty of attention both from its supporters and detractors. Recently Anderson laid out the case on his blog for how the Long Tail applies to travel.

According to the Long Tail, the most popular tourist destinations have always been places like Paris or Tokyo because they were the cities airlines could fly to most efficiently and that had the greatest demand from visitors. But in the last ten years, the growth of low cost carriers and word of mouth recommendation websites like Tripadvisor has changed that model. We're no longer forced to take what our travel agent says at face value. Users online tell us what's worth seeing and the flights have gotten so cheap we're willing to be more risky about where to go. Now instead of Paris or Tokyo, for instance, you're just as likely to hear your friend went to visit Provence or Osaka.

According to Long Tail creator Chris Anderson, the numbers back this up. He cites data from the UK between 1998-2008, when visitors to the "Top 50" travel destinations dropped 10% from 36% to 26%, while visitors to "everywhere else" increased by the same amount. It does take a leap of logic to arrive at Anderson's conclusion - there's nothing here to account for the effects of the economy on travel, and without seeing the Top 50 destinations, it's hard to say what other factors are at play. Still, the implication of the "Travel Long Tail" is striking. More of us seem to be throwing the advice of travel "experts" out the window and setting off on our own, and that's a tremendously exciting trend.

Is there a Long Tail for travel? originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 04 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Following the tragic death of actress Natasha Richardson at Quebec's Mont Tremblant ski resort in 2009, the Canadian company that manages the park is imposing a mandatory helmet rule at all its North American resorts for the upcoming season.

Intrawest, the company that oversees Tremblant and nine other snow resorts across North America, will require helmets for all teen and child skiiers and "recommend" them for other guests. Beginning in 2010, all skiiers and snowboarders at the resorts' freestyle terrain parks will also be required to wear helmets. The new rules will be phased in at Intrawest's resorts in Canada as well as their properties in the United States, including Steamboat and Stratton. In order to better publicize the decision, Intrawest plans to make a number of changes to its website and advertising, updating the imagery to include photos of guests wearing protective headgear.

Say what you will about the wisdom of mandatory helmet laws, but Intrawest's decision just makes sense. Whether you're riding a motorcycle, paddling the rapids or skiing down a hill, it should be natural to wear a helmet during higher risk activities. Richardson's high-profile skiing death only seems to have further pushed the issue to the forefront. Whether this sort of mandatory helmet rule will be extended to other American ski resorts remains to be seen.

Ski resort adds mandatory helmet rule originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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When it comes to fall foliage, New England seems to get all the credit. But Midwestern fans of fall color need not be jealous. Just a few hours north of Chicago, on majestic Lake Superior, road-trippers can experience one of the country's most spectacular autumn displays along the shores of the Great Lakes.

Starting from the bustling Midwestern port city of Duluth and driving Northeast towards the Canadian town of Thunder Bay, visitors will experience an ever-changing landscape of wild natural beauty and scenic autumn views. It's a virtual art show put on by mother nature: vistas of inky-green pine trees punctuated by fiery oranges and glistening yellows, set against towering cliffs and the steely-gray surface of Lake Superior beyond.

Begin your trip in Duluth, one of the largest port cities on the Great Lakes. The city is connected by the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Atlantic Ocean more than 2,000 miles to the East. Along the canal leading to Duluth's harbor, you can watch the massive cargo ships ferrying iron-ore as they maneuver they way in and out of port. From Duluth make your way towards Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, home to a historic lighthouse set above the massive rock formations of the lake.

As you make your way closer to Canada, make sure to stop off at Grand Marais and the Lutsen Mountains, where you'll be spoiled by a wealth of great hiking opportunities. Soon you'll arrive at the final stop in Ontario's Thunder Bay. Perhaps the most famous attraction in the area is the Ouimet Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon" of Ontario and home to two knee-shaking suspension bridges.

Take a Lake Superior leaf tour this Fall originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autumncargo shipsCargoShipsdulutheagle canyonEagleCanyonfallfoliagegrand maraisGrandMaraisgreat lakesGreatLakeslake superiorLakeSuperiorleef peepingLeefPeepinglutsenmidwestminnesotaouimet canyonOuimetCanyonroad tripRoadTripsaint lawrence seawaySaintLawrenceSeawaysplit rock lighthouseSplitRockLighthousesuspension bridgeSuspensionBridgeFri, 02 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese chef publishes insect cuisine cookbook]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/30/japanese-chef-publishes-insect-cuisine-cookbook/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/30/japanese-chef-publishes-insect-cuisine-cookbook/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/30/japanese-chef-publishes-insect-cuisine-cookbook/#commentsFiled under: , ,

One of the great joys of traveling is the chance to eat something new. Whether it's a mouthwatering steak in Argentina or an English breakfast in London, exposure to new cuisine helps us understand the places we visit and people we meet. But of all the foods we'll try when traveling, many people get all squeamish when it comes to insects. Not so fast says Japanese chef Shoichi Uchiyama, whose new bug recipe cookbook aims to give eaters everywhere a fresh look at eating and consuming these "untouchables" of the food world.

Uchiyama, who first became interested in insect cuisine during a workshop in 1998 in Tokyo, has become a devoted advocate of increased consumption of insects by humans. The chef points to the many benefits of insects as food, including their high protein content and the ability for farmers to raise them quickly and cheaply. He also notes that more than 1400 varieties of insects are consumed worldwide, from Africa to Latin America and Asia. Uchiyama's new 256 page cookbook aims to further dispel humans' natural aversion to eating bugs by providing a run-down of how to cook everything from cockroaches in pink vinegar soup, to moth pupae covered in sugar to pizza covered in water bugs.

What do you think? Does a sugar-covered moth-pupae get your mouth watering? Even if you think Chef Uchiyama has gone off the deep end, his enthusiasm and creativity are certainly cause for a second look at that plate of crickets. Have you ever eaten insects during your travels? Tell us about your experience in the comments.

Continue reading Japanese chef publishes insect cuisine cookbook

Japanese chef publishes insect cuisine cookbook originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugbugschefcockroachcuisinedeliciousdisgustingeatingfeastfoodgrossinsectslarvaemothpupaeShoichi UchiyamaShoichiUchiyamawater bugWaterBugWed, 30 Sep 2009 15:30:00 EST