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[Would You Let A Website Choose Your Travel Destination?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/would-you-let-a-website-choose-your-travel-destination/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/would-you-let-a-website-choose-your-travel-destination/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/would-you-let-a-website-choose-your-travel-destination/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

beach Set to launch November 1, GetGoing is a new website that takes the hassle out of trip planning and budgeting while giving sizable discounts.

Travelers simply input their travel dates and what kind of trip they want, and the site searches hundreds of destinations, including ones they may not have thought of that could be a great fit. Users can input information about the region, like Europe or Asia, or interest, like history, beach or culture. From the generated list of 10 possible trips, users then choose their top two choices, as well as times, stopovers and prices. GetGoing will then choose one the trips and handle the booking.

So, why would one use this service? Along with less thinking on your part, GetGoing promises airfare discounts of up to 40% when you use their services.

Still sound crazy? Not to co-founder and CEO Alek Vernitsky, who explained to NBC News, "Giving somebody the option of selecting two destinations instead of one fits with how people think about vacations. People naturally think in terms of options - do I want to go here or there?"

Using the flip-a-coin philosophy, the company is able to leverage the fact their clients aren't married to certain dates or destinations, allowing them to get great deals on remaining seats. For now, GetGoing will offer flights from 12 U.S. airports and trips to about 2,000 destinations. Future goals include adding similar offerings for accommodations and local getaways.

Would you use GetGoing's new travel service?

[Image via Shutterstock]

Would You Let A Website Choose Your Travel Destination? originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealsdiscountsgetgoingnewstechnologytrip planningTripPlanningWed, 24 Oct 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[8 Million Bats Fly To Zambia For Annual Migration]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/8-million-bats-fly-to-zambia-for-annual-migration/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/8-million-bats-fly-to-zambia-for-annual-migration/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/8-million-bats-fly-to-zambia-for-annual-migration/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

bat For travelers who want to get away from the fake blood and costumed zombies this Halloween, there is more authentic experience to be had at Zambia's Kasanka National Park. The spectacle is said to be the world's largest mammal migration, with 8 million straw-colored fruit bats arriving from the Congo to eat the wild musuku fruits in the park.

During the migration an overwhelming amount of bats spiral through the skies, screeching and colliding as they return each year to settle in the fruit trees, covering them until there is no longer visible bark. The most memorable time to watch is at sunset, when the bats fly out to find food, creating a thick straw blanket in the sky.

Said Jim Holden, President of African Travel, Inc., in a press release, "The annual migration of millions of bats from the Democratic Republic of the Congo across the border to Kasanka National Park is an astonishing sight. Africa is full of such natural wonders, and most of them are not well known, as with this natural occurrence."

For a visual idea of the bat migration, check out the gallery below. If you're interested in seeing the bat migration for yourself, visit the African Travel, Inc. website to book a tour.

Gallery: Zambia's Amazing Bat Migration



[Image above via Shutterstock; Gallery images via Shutterstock, Kathy Richardson, Frank Willems / Kasanka Trust]

8 Million Bats Fly To Zambia For Annual Migration originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africabat migrationBatMigrationbatshalloweenzambiaWed, 24 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Still Have Unused Vacation Days? Fall Is A Great Time To Use Them]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/still-have-unused-vacation-days-fall-is-a-great-time-to-use-the/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/still-have-unused-vacation-days-fall-is-a-great-time-to-use-the/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/24/still-have-unused-vacation-days-fall-is-a-great-time-to-use-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

office job According to the most recent American Express Spending & Saving Tracker, U.S. employees have an average of eight unused vacation days this fall. Not only that, but 38% of workers are expected to lose them completely. While some people don't know they can use them this late in the year, others are stressed out with work and don't know if they can take the time away from the office.

"Many workers get caught up in their busy schedules, and before they know it, the year is winding down and they think it's too late to use their vacation days. The truth is, it's not too late," Lesley Trudelle of American Express Travel explained to Gadling. "Others can feel they have too much going on to allow themselves a vacation away from work and everyday life, but it is so important to allow time away from your desk to de-stress."

In fact, a study done earlier this year showed nearly 60% of workers said losing paid vacation time decreased their well being. Additionally, subjects reported feeling revitalized, energetic and more productive after using their vacation days. If you still have some left, know autumn is a great time to use these unused vacation days.

Why Use Them Now?

Because fall is shoulder season in most places and there are fewer crowds, travelers can take advantage of more deals. It also tends to be less expensive, allowing you to take advantage of luxurious amenities for a discounted price. Weather can be more reliable, with less rain, lower temperatures and less humidity. Although November is still fall, in many places it's not even considered shoulder season but off-season. This means you'll enjoy quick service, quieter sightseeing and cheaper travel, many times by hundreds of dollars.

Continue reading Still Have Unused Vacation Days? Fall Is A Great Time To Use Them

Still Have Unused Vacation Days? Fall Is A Great Time To Use Them originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autumnbudget travelBudgetTravelfallshoulder seasonShoulderSeasontravel tipsTravelTipsvacation daysVacationDaysWed, 24 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Urban Park Allows Visitors To Travel To More Than 50 Countries]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/urban-park-allows-visitors-to-travel-to-more-than-50-countries/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/urban-park-allows-visitors-to-travel-to-more-than-50-countries/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/urban-park-allows-visitors-to-travel-to-more-than-50-countries/#commentsFiled under: , ,

superkilen
Do you wish you could travel more but don't have the time to visit as many places as you would like? If you can get yourself to Copenhagen, you'll be able to travel to over 50 different countries without leaving their newest urban park project, Superkilen.

Commissioned by the city of Copenhagen and RealDania, the concept of the "Super Park" was developed by SUPERFLEX as well as architectural firms Bjarke Ingels Group and Topotek1. According to The Atlantic Cities, the park runs through the diverse neighborhood of Nørrebro and has three sections, Red Square, Black Market and Green Park. While Red Square embodies modern city life with sports, music and a cafe, Black Market takes a classic approach by featuring fountains and benches. Green Park is where people go for picnics and dog walking. The unique twist on the concept is each area is dotted with various pop and cultural artifacts from the community members' home countries.

Instead of having Superkilen reflect just Danish culture with local benches, plants and playgrounds, the park is curated to represent nationalities from all over the world. For example, you may find an Islamic-tiled fountain from Morocco, neon Communist signs from Russia or a bench from Ethiopia. In total, there are over 100 artifacts from over 50 countries.

If you're visiting the park and want to know more about the objects, you can download Superkilen app which tells the story of each artifact.

[Image via Superkilen]

Urban Park Allows Visitors To Travel To More Than 50 Countries originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artcopenhagenculturecurated parkCuratedParksuperkilenurban parkUrbanParkTue, 23 Oct 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blood Rain Predicted To Fall In The United Kingdom This Halloween]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/blood-rain-predicted-to-fall-in-the-united-kingdom-this-hallowee/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/blood-rain-predicted-to-fall-in-the-united-kingdom-this-hallowee/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/blood-rain-predicted-to-fall-in-the-united-kingdom-this-hallowee/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

blood rain Blood rain just before Halloween? While it may sound like a festive prank, forecasters are really predicting this bizarre weather occurrence.

The phenomenon is actually a mix of red dust from the Sahara Desert blowing toward Europe. However, because it's supposed to rain, the dust will most likely mix with the precipitation causing red raindrops, or blood rain.

Other predictions include the blood rain spattering and staining cars to mixing with snow to create a gruesome winter wonderland.

"The warm air has been drawn from a long way south down in north Africa and is spreading north," London's Met Office forecaster Emma Sharples told news.com.au. "But there is going to be a sharp contrast in weather as a cold snap sweeps across the country from Friday, which is likely to bring snow to Scotland and the north of England."

This isn't the first time the U.K. has experienced blood rain. Throughout history it has been noted, and in earlier times was used to presage unfortunate events. In fact, as early as 685 the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle recorded "there was a bloody rain in Britain. And milk and butter were turned to blood. And Lothere, king of Kent, died."

Let's hope this year's blood rain is nothing more than an uncanny incidence.

[Image via Shutterstock]

Blood Rain Predicted To Fall In The United Kingdom This Halloween originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood rainBloodRainhalloweenlondonunited kingdomUnitedKingdomweatherTue, 23 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Where To Get New York's Best Hot Chocolate This Winter]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/where-to-get-new-yorks-best-hot-chocolate-this-winter/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/where-to-get-new-yorks-best-hot-chocolate-this-winter/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/where-to-get-new-yorks-best-hot-chocolate-this-winter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

hot chocolate While New York has many worthwhile offerings during the holidays - seeing the tree at Rockefeller Center, ice skating at Bryant Park, browsing the many holiday markets - the bitter cold of the city makes it important to know where to go for a hot beverage. Home to many cozy bars, restaurants and cafes, you'll have numerous options, including R Lounge in the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel.

Chilly travelers can take in 360-degree views of Times Square and beyond while sipping special hot chocolates relating to the month's holiday and season, each served with a complimentary sweet. There will also be ongoing chef selection choices including Milk Hot Chocolate, Dark Hot Chocolate and White Hot Chocolate made with homemade marshmallows, fresh fruit, chocolate shavings and various other toppings. If you're in the mood to get a bit tipsy, you can add Grand Marnier, Rum, Franjelico or Baileys to any cocoa.

In November, cinnamon churros are served with beverages like Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate, Mexican Spiced Hot Chocolate and Hot Apple Cider. If visiting in December, you'll get a free piece of peppermint bark as well as Peppermint Hot Chocolate, Gingerbread Hot Chocolate or Mulled Wine. In January, seasonal flavors include Frozen Hot Chocolate, Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Mocha Hot Chocolate served with peppermint meringue and chocolate ganache. And in February, meringue cookies come with cocoas like Lavender Hot Chocolate, Strawberry White Hot Chocolate and Hot Chocolate With Coffee.

Hot chocolates are $8, or $18 when you add liquor.

[Image via R Lounge]

Where To Get New York's Best Hot Chocolate This Winter originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cocoadrinksholidayshot chocolateHotChocolatenew yorkNewYorkseasonalTue, 23 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What You Need To Know To Successfully Hike The Inca Trail]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/what-you-need-to-know-to-successfully-hike-the-inca-trail/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/what-you-need-to-know-to-successfully-hike-the-inca-trail/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/23/what-you-need-to-know-to-successfully-hike-the-inca-trail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

machu picchu

For those looking to hike the Inca Trail in Peru, there is a lot of conflicting information when you search the web. To help you prepare and do it right, here is a guide on how to successfully hike the Inca Trail.

Why Hike To Machu Picchu

If you're just looking to see Machu Picchu, you don't necessarily have to hike, as there are also bus and train options. That being said, I personally recommend hiking to it if you are physically able to do so. By hiking the Inca Trail, you're immersing yourself in the world of the Incas that much more by traversing the same path they did hundreds of years ago. You'll visit numerous other ruins along the way, making the information your guides give you more visual. And, the sense of pride you'll feel once you reach Machu Picchu on foot will be well worth any of the harder sections of the trek.

Getting In

Fly into Cuzco, Peru. This is where tour companies leave from, and where you'll have your orientation the night before the trek.

Continue reading What You Need To Know To Successfully Hike The Inca Trail

What You Need To Know To Successfully Hike The Inca Trail originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelAncascochacuzcogadventureshikinginca trailincasIncaTraillaresllama pathLlamaPathperusalkantaytourstravel tipsTravelTipsTue, 23 Oct 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aurora Expeditions Offers Free Polar Bear Photography Workshops In The Arctic]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/22/aurora-expeditions-offers-free-polar-bear-photography-workshops/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/22/aurora-expeditions-offers-free-polar-bear-photography-workshops/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/22/aurora-expeditions-offers-free-polar-bear-photography-workshops/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

polar bear For any traveler whose bucket list includes visiting the Arctic, Aurora Expeditions is giving you a reason to cross it off in 2013: free polar bear photography workshops.

From August 5 to 18, 2013, cruise, passengers will explore the Arctic areas of Spitsbergen and eastern Greenland before docking in beautiful Isafjordur, Iceland. During the trip, they will have the opportunity to take complimentary polar bear photography classes with Moab Master photographer Joshua Holko and professional wildlife and nature photographer Daniel Bergmann. All levels are welcome, and participants will also get the chance to take pictures of walruses, Arctic fox and reindeer. Prices for this trip start at $7,748 per person, with the trip departing from Longyearbyen in Svalbard.

The company will be also be offering a free wildlife photography workshop aboard their 54-passenger "Polar Pioneer" cruise to Antarctica from November 9 to 23, 2013, with opportunities to photograph seals, whales and penguins. The journey departs from Patagonia's Ushuaia and ends in the Falkland Islands, giving photographers special access into areas usually restricted to scientific research. Passengers will also explore the Lemaire Channel, the Gerlache Strait and the geothermal Deception Island. The 14-night sail/fly voyage starts at $9,990 per person.

To learn more about Joshua Holko's photography, click here.

[Image via Shutterstock]

Aurora Expeditions Offers Free Polar Bear Photography Workshops In The Arctic originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antarcticaarctic cruisesArcticCruisesphotographypolar bearsPolarBearswildlife photographyWildlifePhotographyMon, 22 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Farm-To-Table Restaurants In Vancouver, Canada]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/22/10-farm-to-table-restaurants-in-vancouver-canada/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/22/10-farm-to-table-restaurants-in-vancouver-canada/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/22/10-farm-to-table-restaurants-in-vancouver-canada/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

diva at the met During a recent visit to Vancouver, Canada, it was apparent many restaurants are trying to create sustainable, farm-to-table menus. It's a great city if you're an eco-conscious traveler due to the many options for any price level. To help guide you, here are some top picks for morally conscious cuisine in Vancouver.

Diva at the Met
645 Howe Street

I'm not sure there are any other restaurants in the city that take creative sustainability to the level Diva at the Met does. Chef Hamid Salimian and his team enjoy foraging when they can, even for the organic matters like stones, driftwood and torched bark that make up the snack plates. Chef Salimian visualizes what most can not even fathom, while remaining as organic as possible. For example, a slice of chicken bacon from a biodiverse farm might be brined and smoked for days and come on a stone slab, while a squid ink-infused mussel bread will be topped with roe and made to look like coral. Seafood comes from Ocean Wise-certified providers, while produce comes from farms with high crop biodiversity. In terms of farms, most of their produce comes from North Arm Farm, Sapo Bravo, Glourish Organics and Cherry Lane Farm. Although an upscale restaurant, meals can be affordable, with prices ranging from $19 to $38 for an entree, to the five-course tasting menu at $55 and the seven-course tasting menu at $75.

Continue reading 10 Farm-To-Table Restaurants In Vancouver, Canada

10 Farm-To-Table Restaurants In Vancouver, Canada originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british columbiaBritishColumbiacibo trattoriaCiboTrattoriadiva at the metDivaAtTheMetedible canadaEdibleCanadafarm to tableFarmToTablefoodla pentolaLaPentolaocean wiseOceanWiseorganicrestaurantssushisustainablevancouverMon, 22 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[London Bartender Makes World's Oldest And Most Expensive Cocktail]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/21/london-bartender-makes-worlds-oldest-and-most-expensive-cocktai/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/21/london-bartender-makes-worlds-oldest-and-most-expensive-cocktai/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/21/london-bartender-makes-worlds-oldest-and-most-expensive-cocktai/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


World-renowned mixologist Salvatore Calabrese has recently broken the Guinness World Record for making the world's most expensive cocktail, "Salvatore's Legacy."

The video above shows Calabrese creating the concoction in London at Salvatore at Playboy, using the world's most expensive and oldest spirits. The total price of the drink is $8,830. Supposedly, the "world's leading cocktail expert" had to get creative and modify his recipe after a customer dropped and smashed a $77,480 bottle of cognac.

Curious as to exactly what's in it? According to The Atlantic Cities, the recipe calls for "40 mL of 1788 Clos de Griffier Champagne Cognac, 20 mL of 1770 Kümmel herbal liqueur, 20 mL of 1860 Dubb orange curacao and two dashes of Angostura Bitters, a combination that involves a collective 730 years."

Check out the video above to see the lavish libation being made by Calabrese.

London Bartender Makes World's Oldest And Most Expensive Cocktail originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 21 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boozecalabresecocktailsexpensiveexpensive cocktailExpensiveCocktailluxury travelLuxuryTravelplayboy clubPlayboyClubsalvatore calabreseSalvatoreCalabresevideoworld recordWorldRecordSun, 21 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Traveler's Guide To Quirky Indiana]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/21/travelers-guide-to-quirky-indiana/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/21/travelers-guide-to-quirky-indiana/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/21/travelers-guide-to-quirky-indiana/#commentspork tenderloin Want to make your trip to Indiana more unusual? Simply add some of these quirky activities to your itinerary.

Follow The Tenderloin Trail

Indiana is famous for deep fried pork tenderloin sandwiches. In fact, they have a food trail that winds through the state called the Tenderloin Trail. The route hits the restaurants serving the best tenderloin sandwiches in Indiana. For example, The Mayberry Cafe in Danville offers a flavorful pork tenderloin sandwich the size of your head. Additionally, the eatery immerses guests in quirky nostalgia, as it used to be featured on the old Andy Griffith TV show. You'll see a vintage squad car outside, while re-runs of the show play on a continuous loop inside. For a full list of Tenderloin Trail eateries, click here.

Continue reading Traveler's Guide To Quirky Indiana

Traveler's Guide To Quirky Indiana originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 21 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sun, 21 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yelp Uses Public Shaming To Dissuade Fake Reviews]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/20/yelp-uses-public-shaming-to-disuade-fake-reviews/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/20/yelp-uses-public-shaming-to-disuade-fake-reviews/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/20/yelp-uses-public-shaming-to-disuade-fake-reviews/#commentsFiled under: ,

Yelp

While social travel review sites like Yelp and TripAdvisor can be helpful for trip planning, one constant criticism is how easily it is for business owners to write or pay for fake reviews of their establishment to boost its rating. In Yelp's latest effort to discourage this kind of manipulation, they will be publicly shaming these businesses by displaying warning signs to readers (shown above).

The travel site is putting on their detective hats and watching for suspicious activity by business owners. For example, if many reviews are being submitted from the same Internet Protocol (IP) address, this can be an indicator. Once they find these "rogue solicitations," they warn users. According to Digital Trends, the alert will stay active for 90 days and will be removed after this period, as long as the business quits gaming the system.

"We want to make sure consumers are making informed decisions," said Eric Singley, Yelp's VP of Consumer & Mobile Products. "Yelp's automated review filter is working around the clock to flag these types of biased reviews, and we believe that you deserve the right to know when this type of activity is taking place behind the scenes."

Although this new idea has only been in place for a couple days, it's already working. For example, a Texan business owner who had purchased 200 positive online reviews was caught in Yelp's filter due to its overly "impressive results."

Mr. Singley notes that, while Yelp does have to be aware of these scams, for the most part their travel community is full of honest business owners.

For more information, check out Yelp's official blog post on the new initiative.

[Image via Yelp]

Yelp Uses Public Shaming To Dissuade Fake Reviews originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 20 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>newsscamssocial mediaSocialMediatravel scamsTravelScamsyelpSat, 20 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Remote Travel Destinations From Around The World]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/20/10-remote-travel-destinations-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/20/10-remote-travel-destinations-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/20/10-remote-travel-destinations-from-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

easter island

As technology and transportation advance, the world becomes smaller and smaller; however, that doesn't mean there aren't still out-of-the-way destinations with well-preserved history and culture worth exploring. Although tricky to get to, these 10 remote spots are worth the journey.

Easter Island

One of the most famous remote islands in the world, Easter Island, a special territory of Chile, is well known for its iconic moai statues (shown above). Located 1,289 miles from the closest inhabited island and 2,400 miles from Chile, it's one of the world's most isolated inhabited islands. To get there, flights run to and from Santiago, Chile, Lima, Peru and Tahiti, although check with LAN Airlines ahead of time as they don't run daily from each location.

Continue reading 10 Remote Travel Destinations From Around The World

10 Remote Travel Destinations From Around The World originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 20 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelculturedeception islandDeceptionIslandeaster islandEasterIslandhistoryremote destinationsRemoteDestinationsscuba divingScubaDivingSat, 20 Oct 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bizarre Trampoline Bridge Proposed In Paris, France]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/bizarre-trampoline-bridge-proposed-in-paris-france/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/bizarre-trampoline-bridge-proposed-in-paris-france/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/bizarre-trampoline-bridge-proposed-in-paris-france/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Visitors to Paris may soon find themselves bouncing across the River Seine on a giant inflatable bouncy bridge. According to news.com.au, the idea was proposed by Paris-based architectural firm Atelier Zündel Cristea (AZC) during a local design competition.

"Our intention is to invite its visitors and inhabitants to engage on a newer and more playful path across this same water," AZC writes on their website. "We propose, now, a distinctive urban feature: An inflatable bridge equipped with giant trampolines, dedicated to the joyful release from gravity as one bounces above the river."

Not only that, but the structure is more environmentally friendly than putting up a new traditional bridge. The bizarre bridge features enormous trampolines in the middle of three 98-foot-round sections, with everything being held together with a cord. When the right amount of tension is present, the sides of the structure flip up to keep walkers, or bouncers, from tumbling over the side.

We're not sure how safe this is, but it sure looks like fun.

[Image via AZC]

Bizarre Trampoline Bridge Proposed In Paris, France originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 19 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>architecturebizarrebridgesparisFri, 19 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How To Stay In A Castle On Your Next Trip]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/how-to-stay-in-a-castle-on-your-next-trip/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/how-to-stay-in-a-castle-on-your-next-trip/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/how-to-stay-in-a-castle-on-your-next-trip/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

castle When trying to make your travels extra special, the accommodation can really make or break the ambiance of your vacation. Vacation rentals can help with this by allowing you to stay in all types of unique properties, from the bizarre and architecturally innovative to luxurious and historical castles.

While some of these properties feature rich history, others are more modern with medieval architecture and luxurious amenities. Either way, these castle vacation rentals will make you feel like a king or queen.

For a more visual idea of some top castle vacation rentals from around the world, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Castle Vacation Rentals

Bath Castle, Bath, EnglandAldourie Castle, Loch Ness, ScotlandAl Jafar, Western Sicily, ItalyCastle of Ventura, Tuscany, ItalyThe Castle On Saint John Island, St John, Caribbean


[Image above via Airbnb; Gallery images via FlipKey, HomeAway, OwnerDirect, Airbnb, Gary Heatherly, Cottages and Castles, Think Sicily, Beautiful Places]

How To Stay In A Castle On Your Next Trip originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 19 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlesluxury travelLuxuryTravelvacation rentalsVacationRentalsFri, 19 Oct 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TSA Removes X-Ray Body Scanners From Major Airports, But Some Will Remain]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/tsa-removes-x-ray-body-scanners-from-major-airports-but-some-wi/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/tsa-removes-x-ray-body-scanners-from-major-airports-but-some-wi/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/19/tsa-removes-x-ray-body-scanners-from-major-airports-but-some-wi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

tsa For all those who are against having to go through X-ray body scanners at airport security, you'll be happy to know some are now being removed. During the past few weeks, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been quietly switching them out for safer radiation machines.

While the main goal of the change is to speed up the lines at security checkpoints in major airports, the transition will also lead to less passengers being exposed to radiation.

So far these X-ray machines, called backscatters, have been replaced at Boston Logan International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, Chicago O'Hare, Orlando and John F. Kennedy in New York.

One concern people have with the backscatters is the fact that the radiation has been linked to cancer at higher levels. Moreover, the machines produce images of passengers' naked bodies. The new millimeter-wave scanners help these problems by instead emitting low-energy radio waves similar to those in cellphones, as well as producing generic cartoon images instead of the person's actual body.

Continue reading TSA Removes X-Ray Body Scanners From Major Airports, But Some Will Remain

TSA Removes X-Ray Body Scanners From Major Airports, But Some Will Remain originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 19 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airportairport securityAirportSecuritybody scannersBodyScannershealthnewssafetysecuritytsax-raysFri, 19 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Best Underground Bars In New York]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/18/10-best-underground-bars-in-new-york/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/18/10-best-underground-bars-in-new-york/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/18/10-best-underground-bars-in-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

the vault at pfaff's

New York offers many experiences for the traveler looking for a quality libation. As the weather gets colder and the streets get more crowded, try warming up away from the masses at one of these cozy, underground spaces.

The Vault At Pfaff's
643 Broadway

Located underground at Broadway and Bleecker in NoHo, The Vault at Pfaff's is a neighborhood bar and lounge inspired by Charles Pfaff's original beer cellar. The space played host to numerous actors and literary legends in the 1850s, such as Walt Whitman and Mark Twain. The bar pays homage to its history with refined touches like menus on newsprint, while also keeping the space modern with stylish interiors. On the menu, expect handcrafted cocktails, world-class wines, Champagne, beer and upscale bar bites like mahi mahi ceviche, filet mignon medallions and truffle mac and cheese.

Continue reading 10 Best Underground Bars In New York

10 Best Underground Bars In New York originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 18 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barscocktailsnew yorkNewYorkrestaurantsunderground barsUndergroundBarsThu, 18 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Cultural Experiences To Have In Buenos Aires, Argentina]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/17/10-cultural-experiences-to-have-in-buenos-aires-argentina/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/17/10-cultural-experiences-to-have-in-buenos-aires-argentina/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/17/10-cultural-experiences-to-have-in-buenos-aires-argentina/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

graffiti Traveling to Buenos Aires in Argentina? Add these experiences to your itinerary for a better view of local culture.

Graffiti Walks

Walking around Buenos Aires, it will immediately become clear the city has close ties with the arts, specifically graffiti. While many associate street art with vandalism, the works adorning the streets in Buenos Aires are created by talented and thought-provoking artists, many who are trying to send messages about politics and government. Porteños, or the people of B.A., are very passionate about politics, and you can often see protesting happening on Avenida de Mayo and in Plaza de Mayo. The city's graffiti is a symbol of these amorous locals. You can either wander around on your own or opt for a Graffitimundo Graffiti & Street Art Tour.

Continue reading 10 Cultural Experiences To Have In Buenos Aires, Argentina

10 Cultural Experiences To Have In Buenos Aires, Argentina originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 17 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artbuenos airesBuenosAirescultureestanciagraffitilive musicLiveMusictangowineWed, 17 Oct 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring Zion National Park In Autumn]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/14/exploring-zion-national-park-in-autumn/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/14/exploring-zion-national-park-in-autumn/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/14/exploring-zion-national-park-in-autumn/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

zion national park

As summer nears its end and fall is just upon the horizon, travelers are beginning to think about where to go to check out vibrant autumn foliage. One recommendation I have is to visit Utah's oldest national park, Zion.

The end of September is usually when the temperature begins to drop to a more bearable number in the 70s. Luckily, it's also when the flowers turn a rainbow of colors and the already beautiful park is enhanced with bright hues of purple, red, green, orange, yellow, blue and pink. If you want the best views of changing shades, hike to the higher areas where the colors tend to change first. It'll also reward you with a more encompassing view of the park. Think about starting in Springdale, skipping the highway, and taking the SR 9 to Virgin, then up to Kolob Terrace Road, viewing every layer of the mountains, canyons, forests and rivers until you reach over 7,500 feet.

For a visual idea of autumn in Zion, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Autumn In Zion Natonal Park, Utah



[Images via Shutterstock]

Exploring Zion National Park In Autumn originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 14 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autumn travelAutumnTravelecotourismfall foliagefall travelFallFoliageFallTravelhikingphotographyseasonsutahzionzion national parkZionNationalParkSun, 14 Oct 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New System Makes Hailing A Wheelchair-Accessible Taxi Easy In New York]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/13/new-system-makes-hailing-a-wheelchair-accessible-taxi-easy-in-ne/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/13/new-system-makes-hailing-a-wheelchair-accessible-taxi-easy-in-ne/http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/13/new-system-makes-hailing-a-wheelchair-accessible-taxi-easy-in-ne/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

accessible dispatch When people envision New York, what often comes to mind is the busy streets and the sea of yellow taxis; however, out of the approximately 13,000 cabs in NYC, only 233 are wheelchair accessible. So, in a city where, by law, you must hail a taxi on the street, how is someone who is disabled supposed to get one?

In order to help with the problem, a new system created by Metro Taxi has launched. Called Accessible Dispatch, the company uses a GPS system to tracks each of the 233 wheelchair-accessible taxis. These can be ordered by: No advance reservation is required, and the taxis will be able to take any passengers from Manhattan to any of the five boroughs, Westchester and Nassau counties and the three regional airports. There are no extra fees, as passengers pay the metered rate starting from when they get in to the vehicle to when they get dropped off. Additionally, all drivers who operate these taxis have been specially trained in wheelchair assistance, boarding and de-boarding conduct, as well as disability awareness and passenger sensitivity.

"This is an entirely new kind of service," said Taxi and Limousine Commissioner David Yassky, "and it is a real and tangible reflection of our dedication to making quality taxicab service available to all those who want it."

[Image via Accessible Dispatch]

New System Makes Hailing A Wheelchair-Accessible Taxi Easy In New York originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 13 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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