Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.gadling.com/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[10 best natural spas around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/22/10-best-natural-spas-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/22/10-best-natural-spas-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/22/10-best-natural-spas-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

hot springs Who doesn't love a great spa experience? While a traditional Swedish massage or hot stone treatment is always relaxing, why not try something different and 100% natural?

All over the world, there are regions featuring geothermal pools, hot springs, and water heated by volcanic activity that also contain healing and curative properties. And this isn't something new; even the Incas and the Romans enjoyed taking a dip in these natural spas. Minerals in the water help to alleviate ailments and diseases like asthma, psoriasis, muscle pain, acne, arthritis, neuralgia, and more. And not only is it healthy, its relaxing too.

For a closer look at some of the world's most amazing natural spas check out the gallery below.

[flickr photo via snowpeak]

Gallery: Best Natural Spas Around the World

Pamukkale, TurkeyBanos del Inca, PeruBlue Lagoon, IcelandSanta Rosa de Cabal, ColombiaGlenwood Hot Springs, Colorado

10 best natural spas around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelBudgetTravelecotourismgeothermal poolsGeothermalPoolshealthhot springsHotSpringsluxury travelLuxuryTravelrelaxationspasthermal poolsThermalPoolsWed, 22 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Changi Airport, Singapore: budget-friendly experiences during your layover]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/changi-airport-singapore-budget-friendly-experiences-during-yo/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/changi-airport-singapore-budget-friendly-experiences-during-yo/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/changi-airport-singapore-budget-friendly-experiences-during-yo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

changi airport While layovers are often times boring and filled with endless hours of watching the clock, Changi Airport in Singapore believes that airport experiences should be memorable. Not only that, the airport also caters to the budget-traveler with an array of free activities for people of all ages. Next time you're in transit at Changi Airport, make sure to:

Take a free tour of Singapore- For those with a layover longer than five hours, the airport offers a choice of taking a historical or cultural walking tour of the city. Bookings can be made at the "Free Singapore Tours Registration Booth" in Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

Enjoy free Wi-Fi at over 500 internet stations around the airport.

Say a prayer and enjoy some peace in one of the airport's four prayer rooms (Terminal 1, 2, 3, and the Budget Terminal).

Go to the movies. There are literally big-screen theaters with spacious and comfortable seats showing the latest box office hits in Terminals 2 and 3.

Get your game on in Terminal 2 with complimentary Xbox 360, Playstation 3, MTV Booths, and LAN Gaming.

Go for a hike in one of the various gardens or trails located in the airport, some of which include a rooftop cactus garden, a Sunflower & Light Garden, and the world's only Butterfly Garden.

Keep up-to-date with news, sports, and entertainment in one of the many television lounges dispersed throughout the airport.

Pamper yourself for free at one of Changi Airport's many foot and calf massage stations.

Get creative at one of the many designated interactive art zones where you'll be able to create your own masterpiece.

Learn about aircraft transportation at the Aviation Gallery located in Terminals 2 and 3.


[flickr photo via edwin.11]

Changi Airport, Singapore: budget-friendly experiences during your layover originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airportsasiabest airports in the worldBestAirportsInTheWorldbudget travelBudgetTravelchangi airportChangiAirportsingaporeTue, 21 Feb 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A timelapse journey through the American Southwest]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/a-timelapse-journey-through-the-american-southwest/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/a-timelapse-journey-through-the-american-southwest/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/a-timelapse-journey-through-the-american-southwest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While I don't think anybody would dispute that the American Southwest is beautiful, this timelapse video by Henry Jun Wah Lee of Evosia Studios takes the region to a whole new level of breathtaking. Without using words or special effects, the Los Angeles-based filmmaker brings the landscape to life with dancing fog, vibrant sunrises, detailed rock formations, and curvacious craters that appear to flow like a woman's skirt. The photographer's mission in his work is to inspire people who spend their time in cities to get out and re-connect with nature. Through this video, you'll get to explore the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, North Coyote Buttes, the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons, Rattlesnake Canyon, the Eastern Sierras, Vermillion Cliffs, Yosemite National Park, Grand Staircase Escalante, and the December 2011 Lunar Eclipse.

So how did he create such a stunning masterpiece? Jun Wah Lee explains it took, "a little bit of luck, a lot of traveling and sleepless nights, and a lot of practice!"

A timelapse journey through the American Southwest originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>american southwestAmericanSouthwestgrand canyonGrandCanyonlandscapelunar eclipseLunarEclipsenaturerattlesnake canyonRattlesnakeCanyontimelapsetravel videoTravelVideovideoyosemiteTue, 21 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Museum Secrets learns the art of Viking warfare]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/museum-secrets-learns-the-art-of-viking-warfare/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/museum-secrets-learns-the-art-of-viking-warfare/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/21/museum-secrets-learns-the-art-of-viking-warfare/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

When's the last time you engaged in Viking sword fighting during your travels? Apparently, there are some people who are trained professionals in this skillful yet dangerous art form, like Kelle Longbow and his son Gernot. In fact, Museum Secrets got the chance to talk to the two fight choreographers and see the proper technique for Viking fighting in the exclusive video above.

According to BBC History, "Laws of the late Viking period show that all free men were expected to own weapons, and magnates were expected to provide them for their men." Swords, battle axes, and spears were popular, with elaborately decorated swords symbolizing high status and wealth. Surprisingly, the Vikings had no professionally elected army, although the bonds between the men and their leaders were strong enough to hold them together. In the end, the goal was to capture or even kill the opposing leader.

Although the current sport uses dull blades and doesn't involve death, the risk of injury is apparently still pretty high, as Viking warfare is based on hitting the enemy. Luckily, you can only strike on the upper arms, shoulders, torso, and knees to upper thighs.

To get a better idea of Viking warfare, check out the video above. Museum Secrets airs on Thursdays at 10 PM ET/PT on History Television Canada and for international viewers, more short videos are available at www.museumsecrets.tv.

Museum Secrets learns the art of Viking warfare originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelgermanysportsunique experiencesUniqueExperiencesvideoviking warfareVikingWarfareTue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hotel packages for art and culture enthusiasts]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/20/hotel-packages-for-art-and-culture-enthusiasts/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/20/hotel-packages-for-art-and-culture-enthusiasts/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/20/hotel-packages-for-art-and-culture-enthusiasts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

hotel villa magna Hotel Villa Magna
Madrid, Spain

Hotel Village Magna is a 5-star luxury hotel located in the center of Madrid. Until December 2012, the property will be helping travelers get to know the art and culture of the city through their Prado Package, which includes a private guided tour of the Museo Nacional del Prado, a museum featuring fine European art from the 12th-19th centuries. Not only that, but once the tour is over visitors will be seated for a gourmet, butler-service meal in one of the exhibition rooms where live music will accompany breathtaking art and sumptuous cuisine. Once back at the hotel, the package treats guests to stay in the Royal Suite where unlimited Cava will be provided, as well as a daily buffet-breakfast for two, private car service to and from the museum and airport, and a late check-out of 4PM.

Packages start at $14,575 per night. Call +0034915 871 234 or E-mail villamagna@villamagna.es to book.

Continue reading Hotel packages for art and culture enthusiasts

Hotel packages for art and culture enthusiasts originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accommodationsartculturehotelsluxury travelLuxuryTravelMon, 20 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New dark tourism sites open all over the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/20/new-dark-tourism-sites-open-all-over-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/20/new-dark-tourism-sites-open-all-over-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/20/new-dark-tourism-sites-open-all-over-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Dachau For those who are unfamiliar with the term, "dark tourism" refers to visiting sites associated with grief, tragedy, or death. While some people may debate the ethics of visiting these types of sites, they often provide educational, enlightening, and even life-changing experiences for those who do. When I was in Munich, Germany, I took a day trip to see Dachau Concentration Camp (shown right) and learned a lot about the site and the Holocaust in general that I had not known before. While it wasn't an easy experience, I did see the value of visiting such a site for the awareness factor as well as to stop these past tragedies from happening again.

Although dark tourism first gained prominence between the 18th and 19th centuries, the interest in these types of sites is still growing. Here are some new dark tourism sites open all over the world, as well as some that have garnered an integral status throughout the years.

New

Napoleonland
France

Napoleonland, which will be created to honor military leader and politician Napoleon Bonaparte, is expected to be completed by 2017. It will be a theme park that will include shops, museums, hotels, and restaurants. While this may sound fun, the site of the attraction will reside on the very spot where Napoleon's troops fought and defeated the Austrian army about 200 years ago. A water show resembling the Battle of Trafalgar, a ski run containing the frozen bodies of dead soldiers, a re-creation of Louis XVI literally losing his head on the guillotine, and other war-related and morbid interactive exhibits will all be featured.

Continue reading New dark tourism sites open all over the world

New dark tourism sites open all over the world originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bomb sheltersBombShelterscambodiadark tourismDarkTourismghanahistorysingaporewarMon, 20 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Discovering the wonders of Turkey through photos]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/discovering-the-wonders-of-turkey-through-photos/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/discovering-the-wonders-of-turkey-through-photos/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/discovering-the-wonders-of-turkey-through-photos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

turkey Turkey is a historical country filled with culture, beauty, and natural wonders. In fact, there are many interesting facts that many people may not know that help add to the enchantment and splendor of the country, like the fact that the world's oldest known human settlement can be found in Turkey, two of the seven Wonders of the Ancient World were located in Turkey, and the seven churches cited in the Book of Revelation all resided in Turkey. With such a unique past, it's not surprising that the country holds so many spectacular and amazing sites. Wander inside the Blue Mosque, an enormous complex that was built from 1609-1616, trek through the unworldly Cappadocia region, or check out the ruins in Ephesus, where the Temple of Artemis stands, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

To explore the wonders of Turkey for yourself through photos, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Wonders of Turkey

The Blue Mosque, IstanbulGalata Tower, IstanbulHagia Sofia, IstanbulHagia Sofia, IstanbulTopkapi Palace, Istanbul

Discovering the wonders of Turkey through photos originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancient ruinsAncientRuinsartart and cultureArtAndCultureblue mosqueBlueMosquecappadociacultureephesushagia sofiaHagiaSofiahistoryphotosroman ruinsRomanRuinstravel photosTravelPhotosturkeywonders of turkeyWondersOfTurkeySun, 19 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tips for teaching English abroad without speaking the local language]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/tips-for-teaching-english-abroad-without-speaking-the-local-lang/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/tips-for-teaching-english-abroad-without-speaking-the-local-lang/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/tips-for-teaching-english-abroad-without-speaking-the-local-lang/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

teaching english When people hear I spent a summer teaching English in Thailand, they often assume I speak fluent Thai. The truth is, you don't need to be fluent in the local language to teach English abroad. I'm not saying that it doesn't help, however, it isn't necessarily required, as the goal is creating an environment of English-language immersion.

Teaching English is a great experience for all parties involved, and if it's something you're interested in doing you shouldn't let fear of not speaking the local language fluently hold you back. Not only will you get the chance to have an eye-opening experience and get a unique perspective of the culture, you'll also be helping educate children and getting the chance to share your unique background with them.

To help you get the most of your experience teaching English abroad, here are some tips.

Figure out if you want to get paid or volunteer

When I taught English in Thailand, I volunteered with an affordable organization called International Volunteer Headquarters. Basically I paid a small fee which included having 24/7 support, accommodations, meals, school supplies, and cultural activities like elephant trekking and a weekend homestay experience. A portion of the money also went toward benefiting the local community. You can also search through the SE7EN database for free and low-cost opportunities. The truth is, there are a lot of expensive volunteer programs out there for this kind of project, and while many of them are reputable, there's really no need to spend a fortune to volunteer, especially if you want a truly local experience.

If you're looking to teach English long-term and want to get paid for your work, I would recommend signing up for a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA course, as many schools require that you have a certification. While it's not impossible to get a job without one, you'll have less choices in the positions you can apply for. Some excellent resources for these kinds of jobs include Dave's ESL Cafe, ESL JOBS, and Teaching Opportunities Abroad.

Continue reading Tips for teaching English abroad without speaking the local language

Tips for teaching English abroad without speaking the local language originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celtacultureESLlanguageteaching english abroadTeachingEnglishAbroadtefltesolthailandvolunteervolunteer abroadVolunteerAbroadworking abroadWorkingAbroadSun, 19 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exciting hotel packages for springtime travelers]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/exciting-hotel-packages-for-springtime-travelers/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/exciting-hotel-packages-for-springtime-travelers/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/19/exciting-hotel-packages-for-springtime-travelers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

hotel Wondering where you should travel this spring? Take advantage of one of these season-inspired packages and enjoy fun activities in great locations for a discounted price.

De L'Europe
Amsterdam, Netherlands

The city of Amsterdam is well-known for its flower markets, lush gardens, and picturesque parks. To help visitors experience the natural beauty of the city, De L'Europe is featuring an Enchanted Gardens package from March 22-May 20, 2012. The package includes accommodations in the spacious Deluxe Room, breakfast for two each morning, and two tickets along with an all-inclusive guide to the Keukenhof, where myriad flora and fauna displays will be featured as well as over 7 million flowers including hundreds of tulip varieties.

Packages start at $595 per night based on double occupancy. Call +31 20 531 17 77 or click here to book.

Continue reading Exciting hotel packages for springtime travelers

Exciting hotel packages for springtime travelers originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best hotelsBestHotelshotel packagesHotelPackageshotelsluxury travelLuxuryTravelspringtravel dealsTravelDealsSun, 19 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why you should visit Singapore in 2012]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/18/why-you-should-visit-singapore-in-2012/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/18/why-you-should-visit-singapore-in-2012/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/18/why-you-should-visit-singapore-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

museum There are many reasons Singapore makes a great travel destination, from unique architecture to rich cultural experiences to carefully prepared cuisine. In 2012, the Southeast Asian destination has even more reasons to visit, from exciting new restaurants to the opening of their first river-themed animal park. Here are some reasons to put Singapore on this year's trip itinerary.

New cultural venues

In February, 2011, the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands opened to the public as the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. First there is the architecture of the building (shown right), which is designed to look like a lotus flower in order to metaphorically welcome guests from all walks of life. The museum itself houses more than 50,000 square feet of exhibits for visitors to explore, helping them to better understand the connection between art and science.

The National Art Gallery in Singapore is undergoing a complete renovation and is being relocated to the center of the Civic District. The new visual arts venue will be housed in two adjacent heritage buildings: City Hall and the former Supreme Court building. It will be the largest of its kind in Singapore, and will "focus on the display, appreciation, promotion, research and study of Southeast Asian and Singaporean art, as well as play host to international art exhibitions". The completed project should be done by the end of the year, and until then travelers can still visit the former National Art Gallery, which features an array of local and cultural works.

Continue reading Why you should visit Singapore in 2012

Why you should visit Singapore in 2012 originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art and cultureArtAndCultureasiabudget travelBudgetTravelculturehotelsluxury travelLuxuryTravelsingaporesouth east asiasoutheast asiaSoutheastAsiastreet foodStreetFoodSat, 18 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Getting to know the royal history of Norfolk, United Kingdom]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/17/getting-to-know-the-royal-history-of-norfolk-united-kingdom/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/17/getting-to-know-the-royal-history-of-norfolk-united-kingdom/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/17/getting-to-know-the-royal-history-of-norfolk-united-kingdom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

norfolkNorfolk is a mainly rural county in the United Kingdom that offers many experiences for visitors, such as historical market towns and villages, nature reserves, wildlife, excellent dining and shopping options, unique heritage sites, and, of course, chances to experience the royal history of the area.

Visit Castle Rising Castle (shown right), which dates back to the 12th century and was owned by various members of royalty, Holkham Hall, which was once occupied by Princess Victoria and holds a quirky story, or Sandringham Estate, which celebrates its 150th year of royal ownership this year.

These are just a few of the royal history experiences that are possible in Norfolk. To get a better idea of the royal history, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Norfolk's Royal History

Holkham HallHolkham BeachKing's Lynn Corn ExchangeNorwich CastlePensthorpe

Getting to know the royal history of Norfolk, United Kingdom originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlehikingnature reserveNatureReservenorfolkpalaceroyal sitesRoyalSitesunited kingdomUnitedKingdomFri, 17 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring the street food in Singapore]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/16/exploring-the-street-food-in-singapore/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/16/exploring-the-street-food-in-singapore/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/16/exploring-the-street-food-in-singapore/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

singapore Singapore is an island-nation in Southeast Asia that has a rich culture, especially when it comes to food. Their unique street food culture can be experienced in the numerous hawker centers: open-air food courts housing authentic, carefully prepared cuisine for a budget-friendly price. Sample delicious options like the local favorite Hainanese Chicken Rice (shown right), peanut sauce-laden satay skewers, mildly-spicy laksa soup, and the rainbow-colored desert, Ais kacang, made with ice and topped with beans, corn, fruit, and other delights.

International food expert Anthony Bourdain, the host of the Travel Channel's No Reservations and The Layover, is a huge fan of Singaporean street food. At a recent event held at LAUT in New York, Bourdain described Singapore as one of the best "foodie destinations" in the world and explained how the culture is comprised of "incredible foods with individual personalities."

He continued, saying, "I kind of lost my mind in Singapore. It ruined me from my previous life. When you've had laksa for breakfast there's no going back. You'll never eat Cheerios again. You can't go back to the way you were before."

For a better idea of Singapore street food culture, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Street food in Sinapore

RojakAis KacangCarrot CakeHainanese chicken riceChilli Crabs

Exploring the street food in Singapore originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>&esrc=s&frm=1&source=newssearch&cd=3&ved=0cdwqqqiwag&url=http://asiabudget travelBudgetTravelcarrot cakeCarrotCakechicken riceChickenRicefoodlaksalaut+bourdainlautbourdainsingaporesingapore+foodsingaporefoodsoutheast asiaSoutheastAsiastreet foodStreetFoodThu, 16 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 sexy sites from around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/10-sexy-sites-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/10-sexy-sites-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/10-sexy-sites-from-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

sex Forget castles, churches, fine art galleries, and history museums; the sites on this list celebrate the thing almost everyone has in common, sex. From penis parks to fertility shrines to bondage demonstrations, these sexy sites from around the world will make your trip a bit quirkier and your mind a bit filthier.

Haesindang Park
Samcheok, South Korea

Also known as Penis Park, Haesindang Park is full of totem-pole like penis carvings, which make for interesting hiking scenery, to say the least. The story behind the park is that there was once a virginal young woman who was engaged to be married. One day, she had her fiancée drop her off on Aebawi Rock in the sea to harvest seaweed while he did work on the beach. Sadly, a change in weather brought the woman to an untimely, tragic, and penis-less death. For years following the incident, the villagers were unable to catch fish and, thinking it was because of the dead woman, created a park in her honor where they created these carvings and held religious ceremonies. While many tourists may find this site quirky, it truly is a celebration of sex and penis worship.

Continue reading 10 sexy sites from around the world

10 sexy sites from around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10+sexy+sites+from+around+the+world10sexysitesfromaroundtheworldbudget travelBudgetTravelnaughty+sexy+storynaughtysexystoryoff the beaten pathoff the radarOffTheBeatenPathOffTheRadarpenispenis parkpenis shrinePenisParkPenisShrinephallic statuesPhallicStatuessexsexy sitessexy+sitesexysiteSexySitesunique destinationsUniqueDestinationsWed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jerusalem to host their first International Ice Festival this spring]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/13/jerusalem-to-host-their-first-international-ice-festival-this-sp/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/13/jerusalem-to-host-their-first-international-ice-festival-this-sp/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/13/jerusalem-to-host-their-first-international-ice-festival-this-sp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

jerusalem While Jerusalem, Israel, is well known for its religious traditions and sacred sites, there is actually a lot more for tourists to experience. In fact, this spring the celebration of Passover isn't the only reason to visit the city, as Jerusalem will be hosting their first ever International Ice Festival.

The festival will take place at the Old Train Station Plaza from March 3-April 4, 2012, and will feature an array of activities and highlights, like an ice bar, ice skating, live entertainment, storytelling, and a replica of Jerusalem made entirely of ice. Don't worry about freezing, as coats will be handed out at the entrance to keep visitors warm in the 14 degree Fahrenheit conditions.

For those who would like to turn their visit to Jerusalem into an creativity-inspired vacation, the Jerusalem Arts Festival also takes place in mid-March. Moreover, the Israel Museum features an array of interesting art and culture exhibits.

Admission to the International Ice Festival is 65 NIS (about $18). Click here to purchase tickets.

Jerusalem to host their first International Ice Festival this spring originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artcultureeventsevents in israelEventsInIsraelfestivalsfestivals in the middle eastFestivalsInTheMiddleEasticeice sculptorsIceSculptorsisraeljerusalemmiddle eastMiddleEastthings to do in israelThingsToDoInIsraelMon, 13 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An off-the-beaten path itinerary for southern China]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/an-off-the-beaten-path-itinerary-for-southern-china/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/an-off-the-beaten-path-itinerary-for-southern-china/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/an-off-the-beaten-path-itinerary-for-southern-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

china When planning my trip through China one summer, I decided that I wanted to stay out of the well-known cities and explore smaller villages and lesser known areas where I could find less tourist traps and more cultural fare. While Beijing and Shanghai are both excellent cities to visit, here is an itinerary that will take you off the radar and help you discover nature, minority villages, Chinese traditions, and more. To make planning easier for myself I did this trip through Intrepid Travel, but you can also recreate it for yourself.

First stop: Hua Shan, Ning Ming County

Before coming to China I had been traveling through Vietnam and had entered the country from the Lang Son Province into Guangxi, China. From there you can catch a train or bus via Pingxiang to the mountainous village of Hua Shan, which is located in Guangxi. The journey takes about 2-3 hours.

There is a lot to be experienced in peaceful Hua Shan, which is miles away from civilization, located in the heart of mountains, valleys, forests, and near the Dong and Zhuang minority village. I stayed at a family-run guesthouse called Butterfly Valley, which felt more like a homestay than a hotel, as the family would cook for my group, take us on hikes, and end each night playing Mahjong and singing kareoke with us. It also helps to learn a bit of Chinese as not everyone in the area speaks English.

Take a walk through the countryside and notice the myriad plants and crops, like the gum leaves that locals use to cure a stuffy nose and the various edibles like corn, pumpkin, potatoes, and rice fields. Make sure to visit the minority village, which is dominated by wooden and thatched houses and livestock running around. It's interesting to hear and see the music, dance, and art of the people of the community who are, for the most part, quite friendly and were happy to talk to me via my translator. In fact, the people in Hua Shan in general were very friendly and excited to talk to me. Many of the young girls knew basic English and even asked me to hangout with them to help them practice their language skills. Hiking in the area is also a fun activity, and there are many trails that allow you to explore the various flora and fauna of the area. As the region is completely rural you can literally just wander towards the trees and mountains to find your own paths. If you'd like to see indigenous art, boat trips go out to Mount Huashan where a vivid rock painting of various types of people, animals, and symbols is located. The painting is about 725 wide and 131 feet high, making it a bit of a mystery how it was created.

Continue reading An off-the-beaten path itinerary for southern China

An off-the-beaten path itinerary for southern China originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbudget travelBudgetTravelchengyang villageChengyangVillagechinadazhaigroup toursGroupTourshikinglongji rice terracesLongjiRiceTerracespingansouthern chinaSouthernChinatoursSun, 12 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Valentine's Day inspiration from travel blogging couples]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/valentines-day-inspiration-from-travel-blogging-couples/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/valentines-day-inspiration-from-travel-blogging-couples/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/12/valentines-day-inspiration-from-travel-blogging-couples/#commentsFiled under: , ,

valentine's day Ryan & Laura of Round We Go
As told by Ryan

We're both from St. Louis, but met on a beach in Destin, Florida. I went to study abroad in Ireland and Laura came over to visit and we traveled through Ireland and Scotland. Laura studied in Spain the following year and I went over to visit her. When Laura finished college, we decided to attack a different continent and booked a one-way ticket to South America, traveling Brazil for six weeks, setting up shop in Buenos Aires for five months, moving to Santiago, Chile, and traveling through Bolivia, Peru and Patagonia before returning home to the U.S. We moved to Chicago, worked, saved, and left again, this time on a 14-month trip around the world. We estimate we've spent more time together as a couple than our parents' combined 70 years of marriage.

Funny travel moment: It was one of our first nights in Buenos Aires. Laura had been trying to teach me Spanish words and phrases, although I had no real desire to learn. We were still learning our way around the city when we were heading out one night. Switching subway lines, I stepped onto the train with Laura a step back. The doors closed quickly behind me with Laura still on the other side of them. Looking baffled at each other through the subway doors, I mouthed, "What should we do?" Lucky for us, the Argentine woman next to Laura had understood what I had said, "la proxima parada", in Spanish. Laura got on the following train and greeted me at "the next stop" with a cross between a grin and a scowl. I still have no idea why her Spanish lesson had popped into my head at that moment, but we still laugh about it.

Couples' travel tip: Communication is very important. We are often forced to push ourselves when traveling in ways we don't living comfortably at home. By listening to one another, we've been able to work through problems more quickly and have avoided falling into the same traps, or fights, that couples do.

This Valentine's Day: We'll be at home in Chicago brainstorming a more interesting way to spend Valentine's Day next year!

Continue reading Valentine's Day inspiration from travel blogging couples

Valentine's Day inspiration from travel blogging couples originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>couples travel blogCouplesTravelBlogtraveling as a coupleTravelingAsACouplevalentines dayValentinesDaySun, 12 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Traveler's guide to Tarifa, Spain]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/travelers-guide-to-tarifa-spain/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/travelers-guide-to-tarifa-spain/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/travelers-guide-to-tarifa-spain/#commentsspain When I backpacked through Europe, I was surprised at how few travelers I met who had Tarifa, Spain, on their itinerary. In fact, the only people I met who were planning to go to Tarifa were the backpackers I met when I was in Tarifa. That being said, the small beach-town is absolutely beautiful and has a lot to offer in terms of beaches, adventure, food, and fun.

Getting in

Tarifa is actually the southernmost part of not only Spain, but Europe itself. There is no train that goes directly there, but you can take the train to Algeciras, which is only about 30 minutes away, and then catch a bus from there. What I did was I rented a car and drove from Sevilla to Tarifa. While a bit pricey, I got to see some great scenery (pictured above) like mountains, beaches, palm trees, and beautiful resorts, while also getting to have the unique experience of driving in Spain (luckily, they drive on the right side of the road like in America, so it wasn't too difficult).

Continue reading Traveler's guide to Tarifa, Spain

Traveler's guide to Tarifa, Spain originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EuroCheapo launches budget travel guides for Switzerland]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/eurocheapo-launches-budget-travel-guides-for-switzerland/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/eurocheapo-launches-budget-travel-guides-for-switzerland/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/eurocheapo-launches-budget-travel-guides-for-switzerland/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

eurocheapoWhile Switzerland is not usually thought of as a budget-friendly destination, there are actually many worthwhile hotels, sights, and restaurants that won't cost you a fortune. To help travelers navigate their way around this usually costly country, EuroCheapo has launched budget travel guides for the cities of Zurich and Geneva, marking their first Swiss guides on the site. These guides will not only feature accommodation recommendations and photographs from the editors themselves, but also insider tips on how to explore these cities without breaking the bank.

Says EuroCheapo's founder and editor-in-chief, Tom Meyers, "While it's certainly easy to overspend in Geneva and Zurich, our editors have uncovered many simple ways to make visiting more affordable. Both cities offer delightful inexpensive hotels that will keep your trip budget in check."

EuroCheapo is a free budget travel guide for Europe. To check out the brand new Swiss guides as well as money-saving guides for other European cities, click here.

EuroCheapo launches budget travel guides for Switzerland originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelBudgetTraveleurocheapoeuropefree travel guidesFreeTravelGuidesgenevaswitzerlandtravel guidesTravelGuideszurichThu, 09 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Clever Travel Companion secret-pocket tank top and underwear]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

travel clothing When going abroad, one of the biggest concerns for travelers is keeping their valuables safe from pick-pocketers. While fanny packs may be a decent option, they're also a dead giveaway that you're a tourist, making you an even easier target for getting ripped off. Then there are money belts, which are great fashion-wise, however, tend to get itchy and leave sweat marks when it's hot out. That's why I was excited when I found out about The Clever Travel Companion's line of "100% pick-pocket proof" clothing.

I tried a solid black tank top with hidden pockets, as well as a pair of underwear with pockets. To be honest, with or without the pockets I would definitely buy this tank top. It's not too tight, not too loose, made of 100% cotton, and actually feels like a second skin it's so comfortable. Even after walking around in it for an entire day it didn't stretch out or chafe my skin. The pockets make it that much better, as the zipper is literally right above your stomach, allowing for easy access to all of your important documents while still keeping them safe from thieves. You can wear it as an undershirt or as a shirt on its own.

underwear The underwear, which are actually more like boy-short bathing suit bottoms, are also extremely comfortable and made of 94% rayon and 6% spandex. When I first saw them I was a little worried they'd tug, slide up, or show through my pants; however, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they did none of these things. In fact, I forgot I was even wearing them. What I really like about this product is there are two zipper-pockets right in front, making it really easy to quickly get to your things while also eliminating the nervousness back-pockets cause of never really knowing if your stuff is still there.

The Clever Travel Companion has created an extremely useful yet comfortable set of clothing options for travelers, especially when you also think about the extra accessories you now won't have to pack. Secret-pocket tank tops and t-shirts cost $39.90, while the women's underwear costs $29.90. There are also products for men, including long johns ($39.90) and men's underwear ($29.90).

Gadling gear review: Clever Travel Companion secret-pocket tank top and underwear originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clever travel companionCleverTravelCompanionfashiongadling gear reviewGadlingGearReviewhealthpick-pockettingpickpockettingsafetytravel safetytravel scamesTravelSafetyTravelScamesThu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 things to do in every city you visit]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/08/10-things-to-do-in-every-city-you-visit/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/08/10-things-to-do-in-every-city-you-visit/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/08/10-things-to-do-in-every-city-you-visit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

While every city has its own unique landmarks, culture, and sights to see, there are certain general things you can do in any city you visit to make your experience more memorable. To enhance your next trip, take this checklist with you and try to do each of these things in every city you visit.

food Sample the local cuisine

One way to really get to know a culture is through the food. It's seriously incredible how much cuisine can differentiate from culture to culture, and how much the way food is prepared and eaten, as well as what the food is, can tell you about a community. When visiting Ghana, Africa, I was amazed at how most of the staple foods seemed to come from root vegetables and were eaten without swallowing and without using utensils. While I wouldn't say fu-fu and banku are my favorite foods, I definitely am glad I tried them and got to see the intense preparation that went into making these dishes. Even if you travel to a western country or a place that isn't too different from your own, try a local favorite or something that the area is known for (it will almost definitely taste better than what you're used to anyway). If you're in Maine make sure to have a lobster. Visiting Naples, Italy? Eat a slice of pizza from its birthplace. Traveling to Australia? Vegemite, Tim Tams, and barbequed meats are definite musts.

Continue reading 10 things to do in every city you visit

10 things to do in every city you visit originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelartbudget travelBudgetTravelcultural immersionCulturalImmersiondrinkfoodmarketsmuseumsWed, 08 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST