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[Post-quake life in Tokyo: 6 weeks after]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/24/post-quake-life-in-tokyo-6-weeks-after/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/24/post-quake-life-in-tokyo-6-weeks-after/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/24/post-quake-life-in-tokyo-6-weeks-after/#commentsFiled under: ,

One of the absurdities of the modern media cycle is that news stories seems to drop off the radar well before they reach a conclusion. While there are still occasional mentions of the situation here in Japan, for the most part the media has moved on to Libya, Osama Bin Laden, Governor Schwarzenegger and the scandals at the IMF.

Six weeks after the fact, the situation in Japan has most definitely not reached a neat and tidy conclusion. This past week saw the decommissioning of the Hamaoka nuclear plant, the release of pictures from Fukushima capturing the moment that the tsunami waves first hit and the anticipated resignation of TEPCO's disgraced CEO.

Clean-up efforts are still underway up north, and it is going to be months if not years before all the debris is removed. The longer-lasting questions will be to what extent Japan can expect a future public health crisis, and whether or not agricultural capacity can resume to previous levels. Japan's commercial production will also continue to suffer from disrupted supply chains and lack of consumer demand.

Here in Tokyo, the economic gears continue to churn and life goes on as best it can. In fact, to the casual visitor it can appear as if nothing catastrophic really ever happened at all. With that said, please indulge me for a few hundred words as I give a quick update on post-quake life here in Tokyo.

Continue reading Post-quake life in Tokyo: 6 weeks after

Post-quake life in Tokyo: 6 weeks after originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 24 May 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>tokyoTue, 24 May 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Walking the streets of Tirana]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/23/walking-the-streets-of-tirana/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/23/walking-the-streets-of-tirana/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/23/walking-the-streets-of-tirana/#commentsFiled under: ,

Everyone has their own intimate reasons for traveling, be they discovering new places or simply leaving behind old ones. For me however, it's about finding yourself somewhere that you previously couldn't have imagined. The clichéd word for this type of travel is "off-the-beaten path," though the experiences it yields are anything but cliché.

Several years ago, I landed in Athens intent on traveling overland through the Balkans en route to Vienna. While this was never a major tourist route to begin with, I did manage to visit some of the better-known sites: the hilltop monasteries in Meteora, the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia and the up-and-coming Montenegrin Riviera. Along the way, I took a slight detour into a country that I knew next to nothing about: Albania.

What little information I could remember from history class was the following bizarre account. During the Cold War, the Communist leader of Albania was a deranged paranoid by the name of Enver Hoxha. Fearing annihilation from above by Western powers, he charged his military engineers with the task of building almost one million concrete bunkers across the whole of Albania.

The Iron Curtain has long since fallen, but I confess that my image of Albania hadn't changed with the times. As such, you can imagine my surprise upon arriving in the whimsically-colorful capital city of Tirana. Take a look at the gallery below, and then continue reading to learn how this once grey and gloomy city earned its multi-hued stripes.

Gallery: Walking the streets of Tirana

Painted Buildings, TiranaPainted Buildings, TiranaPainted Buildings, TiranaPainted Buildings, TiranaPainted Buildings, Tirana

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Walking the streets of Tirana originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 23 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>albaniatiranaMon, 23 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Prague in pictures]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/20/prague-in-pictures/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/20/prague-in-pictures/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/20/prague-in-pictures/#commentsFiled under: ,

Today's featured summer travel destination has undergone a massive transformation in recent decades. Once regarded as an isolated capital on the red side of the Iron Curtain, it is now the sixth most visited European city behind London, Paris, Rome, Madrid and Berlin. Having escaped the destructive aerial bombing campaigns of World War II, it is also one of the most immaculately preserved European cities.

We're talking of course about Prague (Praha), the capital of the Czech Republic.

The former preserve of shoestringing backpackers in search of cheap lodging and copious amounts of beer, Prague has undergone a miraculous transformation from an industrial center to a full-fledged service economy. The city is now home to most major global travel brands, in addition to the first ever Michelin-starred restaurant in post-Communist Europe (Allegro).

For architecture fans, Prague is akin to a living museum. The medieval city center, home to one of the largest castles in the world, is nothing less than picture perfect at every angle. On that note, take a quick look at some of the gallery images below, and then keep reading to learn more about one of our favorite cities in Europe.

Gallery: Prague in pictures

Continue reading Prague in pictures

Prague in pictures originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 20 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Czech RepublicCzechRepublicpragueFri, 20 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer Travel: Athens to Meteora]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/10/summer-travel-athens-to-meteora/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/10/summer-travel-athens-to-meteora/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/10/summer-travel-athens-to-meteora/#commentsFiled under: ,

You don't have to be an accountant to know that Greece's spreadsheets are in need of some serious financial overhaul. Some would argue that the country is essentially bankrupt, and that nothing short of a European bailout and/or a return to the drachma can save it from total economic ruin.

The silver lining on the ominous storm cloud is that Greece has the potential to be one of the world's top tourism destinations. The cradle of Western civilization, Greece is an ancient land replete with ruined cities of yore. It also has stunning natural spaces, from rugged highlands and fertile vineyards to sandy beaches and turquoise seas.

The Greek islands already attract their fair share of backpackers, cruise shippers and package holiday travelers alike. But the government's vision is to spread the profitable fruits of tourism into the Greek hinterlands. A tough order indeed, especially given the lack of funds needed to operate struggling museums, historic sites and national parks.

In the spirit of optimism however, we're going to use today's blog to highlight one of our favorite Greek itineraries, namely the northern road from Athens to Meteora.

Gallery: Athens to Meteora

Archaeological Park, AthensArchaeological Park, AthensThe Parthenon, AthensThe Parthenon, AthensTown of Kalampaka

Continue reading Summer Travel: Athens to Meteora

Summer Travel: Athens to Meteora originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 10 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>athenseuropegreecemeteoraTue, 10 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer Travel: Turkey's Aegean coast]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/09/summer-travel-turkeys-aegean-coast/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/09/summer-travel-turkeys-aegean-coast/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/09/summer-travel-turkeys-aegean-coast/#commentsFiled under:

There must be something in the human brain that draws our species to the coast, be it a primitive desire to hunt and fish, or a hedonistic drive to worship the sun and sea. Either way, life always seems better near the water.

One of our favorite coastlines may not be as fashionable as the French Riviera, nor as romantic as Italy's Cinque Terra. But what it lacks in glitz and glam, it more than makes up for in cultural and historical relevance.

On that note, let me draw your attention to Turkey's Aegean coast, a strip of land in the southwest corner of ancient Anatolia, also known as Asia Minor. It borders the Aegean Sea, and was part of both the Hellenistic and Roman Empires.

With a pedigree stretching back more than two millennia, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Turkey's Aegean coast is home to some serious heavyweight attractions. We're talking specifically about the foundation stones of the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), the ruined Roman city of Ephesus, the Basilica of St. John and the House of the Virgin Mary.

Gallery: Turkey's Aegean Coast

Ruins of the Temple of ArtemisRuins of the Temple of ArtemisColonnaded Street, EphesusThe Library, EphesusPelicans at Ephesus

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Summer Travel: Turkey's Aegean coast originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>turkeyMon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer Travel: Exploring Cappadocia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/06/summer-travel-exploring-cappadocia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/06/summer-travel-exploring-cappadocia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/06/summer-travel-exploring-cappadocia/#commentsFiled under:

Disclaimer: Today's summer travel destination isn't exactly the most widely recognizable corner of the world. In fact, some of you seasoned travel vets out there might be scratching your heads and searching for the nearest world map. But we're guessing that after a few hundred words or so, we'll have you dreaming about a trip to Cappadocia.

We're not talking about the small town of the same name in Central Italy, but rather an ancient region of eastern Anatolia, and part of modern Nevşehir Province in Turkey. Cappadocia, pronounced something akin to Kapadokya, is distinguished by its spectacular landscape of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings and expansive underground cities.

Accessible by either bus or plane from Istanbul, Cappadocia is one of the undeniable highlights of any Turkish grand tour. The centerpiece is Göreme National Park, which was designated in 1985 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and protects rock carvings dating back to the Roman era. Another major draw is the town of Ürgüp, where you can bed down in a Flintstone-esque hotel carved right out of the rock face.

Have we captured your full attention yet? If not, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Exploring Cappadocia

Goreme National ParkGoreme National ParkCappadocian VillageTroglodyte DwellingsTroglodyte Fortress

Continue reading Summer Travel: Exploring Cappadocia

Summer Travel: Exploring Cappadocia originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 06 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cappadociaturkeyFri, 06 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer Travel: Spotlight on Istanbul]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/04/summer-travel-spotlight-on-istanbul/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/04/summer-travel-spotlight-on-istanbul/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/04/summer-travel-spotlight-on-istanbul/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ask most travelers to list their favorite European cities, and they'll most likely feedback with the classics: Paris, Rome, Venice, Florence, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Munich and many others. But one destination that doesn't always make the list is not only the largest metropolitan city proper in Europe, but also the former capital of both the Roman and Ottoman empires.

Need a hint?

We're talking about ancient Byzantium, medieval Constantinople and modern Istanbul. Turkey's capital city, not to mention its financial hub and cultural center, is built on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait. As such, it is the world's only bi-continental city, located literally and figuratively at the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

Any time of year, Istanbul charms and enchants with its skyline of elegant minarets rising from the slopes of seven hills. But summertime heat awakens denizens from their winter slumber, imbuing the streets with vigorous life. Alfresco cafes brew cardamom-infused coffee, while waterside bistros serve up the fresh catch of the day.

With a material history dating back to the Byzantines, Istanbul is a veritable living museum of architectural stylings. You can easily spend a week exploring each of the city's distinct neighborhoods, and check-off several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the process. So, without further ado, let's shine a much deserved spotlight on Istanbul.

Gallery: Spotlight on Istanbul

The Blue MosqueBlue Mosque, IstanbulCalligraphy, IstanbulHagia Sophia, IstanbulTraveling Istanbul by Boat

Continue reading Summer Travel: Spotlight on Istanbul

Summer Travel: Spotlight on Istanbul originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 04 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>istanbulturkeyWed, 04 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer Travel: Planning a dive holiday]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/02/summer-travel-planning-a-dive-holiday/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/02/summer-travel-planning-a-dive-holiday/http://www.gadling.com/2011/05/02/summer-travel-planning-a-dive-holiday/#comments

Summer travel typically evokes images of lying idly on a beach without a care in the world. But we at Gadling are always keen to buck the trend and focus on active and experiential travel. In keeping with this theme, today's column aims to get you out into the open water with a steel cylinder of compressed air strapped to your back.

If you want to catch a glimpse of the underwater world, then all you really need is a mask, fins and a snorkel. But to truly immerse yourself in what lies below, you will need to use SCUBA gear, not to mention first undergoing some structured training. Fortunately, planning a dive holiday is fairly easy regardless of your experience level.

Intrigued? Keep on reading.

If you're new to the sport, we'll first outline how you can easily get certified in just a few days. We'll also give you some suggestions on how to find a reputable dive operator, and how to go about choosing your locale. And if you're a seasoned vet - or you're aspiring to be - we'll finish by outlining ways of taking your passion to the next level.

Continue reading Summer Travel: Planning a dive holiday

Summer Travel: Planning a dive holiday originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 02 May 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 02 May 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What I learned about earthquake preparedness]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/28/what-i-learned-about-earthquake-preparedness/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/28/what-i-learned-about-earthquake-preparedness/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/28/what-i-learned-about-earthquake-preparedness/#commentsFiled under: ,

When the Great East Japan Earthquake struck on March 11th, I was working from home here in Tokyo. Having grown accustomed over the years to frequent tremors, I foolishly proceeded to ignore the early warning signs. But when the low rumble grew into intense shaking, I quickly realized that it was time to enact my exit plan.

In 20/20 hindsight, it was not a very good exit plan.

I grabbed my wallet, keys and cell phone, slipped on a comfortable sweatshirt and managed to dig out my running shoes from the closet. Before leaving the apartment, I turned off all the gas, and filled a backpack with a flashlight, batteries and a few cans of tuna. Mind you that all of this took place in just under a minute.

Once outside, I followed the crowds of startled people to a nearby park where we would in theory be safe if buildings started to collapse. Fortunately - at least for those of us in Tokyo - we were spared from the worst. Regardless, the whole encounter made me realize that earthquake preparedness is not something to be taken likely.

This is what I learned...

Continue reading What I learned about earthquake preparedness

What I learned about earthquake preparedness originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanThu, 28 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer Travel: A week in the Holy Land]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/25/summer-travel-a-week-in-the-holy-land/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/25/summer-travel-a-week-in-the-holy-land/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/25/summer-travel-a-week-in-the-holy-land/#commentsFiled under: ,

With the summer holidays rapidly approaching, it's safe to say that many of us are suffering from serious bouts of wanderlust. Fortunately we at Gadling have the cure, namely a heaping dose of pure, uncut travel advice. Side effects may include flight bookings, hotel reservations and the loss of a few clean passport pages.

Every year, travel experts (myself included...) seem to tout a *new* destination that somehow seemed to escape all prior notice. But today we're here to tell you that one of the hottest summer destinations has in fact been around for a long, long time. Rather than keeping you guessing, we'll just spill the fava beans and come right out and say it.

Geopolitics aside, Israel is an awe-inspiring place to visit.

In one tiny strip of land, you'll find ancient cities, a mélange of cultures, stunning natural environments, rich cuisine and decent value for your dollar. Israel's compact size also means that you can tick off a long-list of sights in a relatively short period of time. And, you'll find that English is widely spoken, which makes independent travel very feasible.

Gallery: Pictures from the Holy Land

Dome of the Rock, JerusalemChurch of the Holy Sepulchre, JerusalemOld City Walls, JerusalemAl-Aqsa Mosque, JerusalemWestern Wall, Jerusalem

Continue reading Summer Travel: A week in the Holy Land

Summer Travel: A week in the Holy Land originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>israelmiddle eastMiddleEastMon, 25 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer Travel: How to plan an African safari]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/22/summer-travel-how-to-plan-an-african-safari/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/22/summer-travel-how-to-plan-an-african-safari/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/22/summer-travel-how-to-plan-an-african-safari/#commentsFiled under:

With the summer holiday season just around the corner, it's never too early to start planning your escape from the office. Whether you're interested in jetting off to a foreign locale, or exploring your own neighborhood during a 'stay-cation,' the summer holiday season is an opportunity to break from the norm and take advantage of the favorable weather.

Of course, we at Gadling are all about encouraging readers to push the travel envelope and seek out the unconventional. There is absolutely nothing wrong with kicking back in an all-inclusive resort for a week - and trust us, we've been known to do that from time to time! But the most rewarding travel experiences generally come from those that require a bit more forward planning.

On that note, this post is all about how to plan an African safari. Rather than celebrating exotic wildlife and pristine parks, we're going to focus on the nitty-gritty details. From composing an itinerary and selecting an operator to setting a budget and knowing what to expect, we hope to educate and inform while being clear, concise and encouraging.

Continue reading Summer Travel: How to plan an African safari

Summer Travel: How to plan an African safari originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AfricasafariFri, 22 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Summer travel: European beach destinations]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/21/summer-travel-european-beach-destinations/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/21/summer-travel-european-beach-destinations/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/21/summer-travel-european-beach-destinations/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

With the summer holiday season just around the corner, it's never too early to start planning your escape to the beach. For many Americans, this means balmy Floridian shores, the sun-kissed Californian coast, far-flung Hawaiian islands or hedonistic Caribbean resorts.

But if you're looking for a slice of culture alongside your generous helpings of sea and sand, then consider escaping to one (or several) European beach destinations. A quick jaunt across the pond is all that separates you from basking in glorious Mediterranean climes.

The French Riviera is arguably the most glamorous destination on the continent, but the surprising diversity of European beaches easily caters to travelers of all budget levels. Therein lies the real appeal as you can seek out whatever wave-lapped strip of land that happens to take your fancy.

On that note, we're proud to kick off our summer travel round-ups by highlighting five European beach destinations that we can't stop thinking about. Although this list is by no means exhaustive, we're hoping that it inspires you to dig out the swimsuits from your closet's nether regions.

Continue reading Summer travel: European beach destinations

Summer travel: European beach destinations originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>croatiaeuropefrancegreecespainThu, 21 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Other Mexico: San Cristobal de las Casas]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/14/the-other-mexico-san-cristobal-de-las-casas/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/14/the-other-mexico-san-cristobal-de-las-casas/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/14/the-other-mexico-san-cristobal-de-las-casas/#commentsFiled under: ,

All this week, Gadling will be bringing you coverage of the *other* Mexico. Beyond the margarita-fueled coastal tourist traps lie ancient ruins, colonial cities and culinary hot spots. So, leave your preconceived notions at home, and get ready to head south of the border to explore the other side of Mexico.

In 2003, Mexico's Secretariat of Tourism (SECTUR) unveiled the Magical Villages Program. This promotional campaign highlights destinations that offer visitors a 'magical' experience through historical and cultural beauty and richness. One such place that fulfills these characteristics is San Cristobal de las Casas.

Located in the Chiapas highlands at an elevation of nearly 7000 feet, San Cristobal has always been thought of as a rather remote and mysterious place. Enclosed by dense pine forests, and accessed only by serpentine mountain roads, San Cristobal is anything but an easy-to-reach destination for the time-pressed traveler.

But that is exactly why you should it seek out.

In light of its re-discovery by shoestringing backpackers in the 1970s, San Cristobal now boasts stately accommodations, swanky restaurants and an intoxicating bohemian chic. It is also home to a proud indigenous community, and very briefly served as the launching point of the failed 1994 Zapatista uprising against the Mexican government.

Gallery: San Cristobal de las Casas

Streetscape, San Cristobal de las CasasStreetscape, San Cristobal de las CasasStreetscape, San Cristobal de las CasasPlaza Mayor, San Cristobal de las CasasCrucifix, San Cristobal de las Casas

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The Other Mexico: San Cristobal de las Casas originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MexicoThu, 14 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Other Mexico: Mayan Ruins at Palenque]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/13/the-other-mexico-mayan-ruins-at-palenque/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/13/the-other-mexico-mayan-ruins-at-palenque/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/13/the-other-mexico-mayan-ruins-at-palenque/#commentsFiled under: ,

All this week, Gadling will be bringing you coverage of the *other* Mexico. Beyond the margarita-fueled coastal tourist traps lie ancient ruins, colonial cities and culinary hot spots. So, leave your preconceived notions at home, and get ready to head south of the border to explore the other side of Mexico.

We'll be the first to confess that prying yourself away from the powder-perfect beaches of Cancun is no easy task. And even if you do manage to put down the Corona and find some proper cloths, the sweaty interior of the Yucatan isn't exactly the most relaxing of destinations.

Local tour operators feel your pain - and can quickly sense your padded wallet - which means that day-trips to the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza are cheap and easy to arrange. Not to discount one of the New7Wonders, but the hordes of spring breakers and package travelers definitely detract from the hidden wonder of this ancient site.

For those of you jaded by mass tourism, fret not as there are (in our humble opinion) equally impressive Mayan ruins just a bit further south in Chiapas. Palenque, with an archaeological history dating back to 100 BCE, is quite literally all alone in the middle of the deep jungle.

Gallery: Mayan Ruins at Palenque

Temple of the Inscriptions, PalenqueTemple of the Inscriptions, PalenqueThe Palace, PalenqueThe Palace, PalenqueThe Palace, Palenque

Continue reading The Other Mexico: Mayan Ruins at Palenque

The Other Mexico: Mayan Ruins at Palenque originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MexicoWed, 13 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Other Mexico: Slow food in Oaxaca]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/12/the-other-mexico-slow-food-in-oaxaca/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/12/the-other-mexico-slow-food-in-oaxaca/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/12/the-other-mexico-slow-food-in-oaxaca/#commentsFiled under: ,

All this week, Gadling will be bringing you coverage of the *other* Mexico. Beyond the margarita-fueled coastal tourist traps lie ancient ruins, colonial cities and culinary hot spots. So, leave your preconceived notions at home, and get ready to head south of the border to explore the other side of Mexico.

Mexican food in one form or another is enjoyed the world over. Not to discount the deliciousness of cheese nachos and mega-burritos, but finding truly authentic Mexican food can be a challenge. Indeed, first-timers in Mexico are often astonished to discover that real Mexican food is unlike anything they've grown accustomed to eating back home.

Just as cuisine varies from region to region in France, Italy and Spain, the Mexican culinary landscape takes into account climate, proximity to the sea and historical roots. It can take the form of a hearty soup of corn and beans, a martini glass full of marinated ceviche or a masterfully blended sauce served over a fine cut of meat.

When it comes to slow food, one region that steals the stage is Oaxaca (pronounced wa-HA-ka). Located in southern Mexico between the Pacific Ocean and the highlands of Chiapas, Oaxaca is a veritable foodie paradise of indigenous eats, French-style sauces and some truly amazing mescal.

Gallery: Slow food in Oaxaca

Oaxacan Fruit MarketFresh Limes and Garlic ClovesOaxacan-style String CheeseOaxacan-style Soft CheeseOaxacan Moles for Sale

Continue reading The Other Mexico: Slow food in Oaxaca

The Other Mexico: Slow food in Oaxaca originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MexicoTue, 12 Apr 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Other Mexico: 48 hours in Mexico City]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/11/the-other-mexico-48-hours-in-mexico-city/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/11/the-other-mexico-48-hours-in-mexico-city/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/11/the-other-mexico-48-hours-in-mexico-city/#commentsFiled under: ,

All this week, Gadling will be bringing you coverage of the *other* Mexico. Beyond the margarita-fueled coastal tourist traps lie ancient ruins, colonial cities and culinary hot spots. So, leave your preconceived notions at home, and get ready to head south of the border to explore the other side of Mexico.

The statistics on Mexico City are impressive. Reportedly the fifth largest urban agglomeration in the world, the Distrito Federal (Federal District) or simply D.F. is an alpha global city home to nearly 20 million souls. It is the eighth richest city in the world, accounting for nearly 35% of Mexico's gross domestic product (GDP).

Mexico City is also steeped in history. Founded by the Aztecs in 1325 as the floating island metropolis of Tenochtitlan, it was razed by the Spanish in 1521 and rebuilt as a major New World administrative center. In 1824, independence from Spain led to the official designation of the modern Federal District.

Yet despite this rich pedigree, a surprising number of foreigners imagine Mexico City to be nothing more than a narco-fueled criminal cesspool. And on that note, allow me to do a bit of much-need PR work by kicking off '48 hours in Mexico City.'

Gallery: Mexico City

Teotihuacan, MexicoPyramid of the Sun at TeotihuacanPyramid of the Moon at TeotihuacanCemetery at TeotihuacanOlmec Head, Museo Nacional de Antropologia

Continue reading The Other Mexico: 48 hours in Mexico City

The Other Mexico: 48 hours in Mexico City originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mexicoMexico CityMexicoCityMon, 11 Apr 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Post-quake life in Tokyo]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/09/post-quake-life-in-tokyo/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/09/post-quake-life-in-tokyo/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/09/post-quake-life-in-tokyo/#commentsFiled under: ,




As a Tokyo-based writer, I've written no less than four books on Japan in addition to countless blogs, newspaper articles, magazine features and reference texts. While I hesitate to use the word expert, I consider myself to be profoundly knowledgeable about the country that I've lived in for the last five years.

Yet despite these credentials, I have struggled for weeks to summarize any clear thoughts about the recent Great Tohoku Earthquake. Even as I finally sit down now and haphazardly hack away at my keyboard, what follows is little more than a scattered and solitary perspective on post-quake life in Tokyo...

With that said, I do hope that my brief narrative offers some perspective on the present mood here, albeit through the eyes of a resident foreigner. I've also made a conscientious effort to remain objective in the hopes of cutting through all the fears, paranoia and criticisms that reside in the media as of late.

Continue reading Post-quake life in Tokyo

Post-quake life in Tokyo originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 09 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanSat, 09 Apr 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nobu to open hotel in Las Vegas]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/10/nobu-to-open-hotel-in-las-vegas/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/10/nobu-to-open-hotel-in-las-vegas/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/10/nobu-to-open-hotel-in-las-vegas/#commentsFiled under: ,

When it comes to sushi on this side of the Pacific, few American-based restaurants can compete with the likes of Nobu. Capitalizing on this celebritydom, chef Nobu Matsuhisa has recently announced plans to open up his first Nobu-branded boutique hotel in Vegas.

With 26 restaurants on five continents - three of which have been awarded highly-coveted Michelin stars - you'd think that Nobu and his partner Robert De Niro would be content to rest on their laurels. On the contrary, the Nobu Hospitality group is currently preparing to make an aggressive expansion into the boutique hotel market.

And what better place to inaugurate a new entertainment venture?

The answer is none other than Las Vegas, Nevada. According to a recent press release, the oldest tower at Caesar's Palace is set to undergo a renovation by the same interior design team that brought you City Center.

The resulting transformation will thereafter be known as the Nobu Hotel Las Vegas.

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Nobu to open hotel in Las Vegas originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>las vegasLasVegasnobuThu, 10 Mar 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[48 Hours in Bangkok]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/09/48-hours-in-bangkok/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/09/48-hours-in-bangkok/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/09/48-hours-in-bangkok/#commentsFiled under: ,

Since its emergence as an R&R destination for American servicemen during the Vietnam War, Bangkok has had an infamous reputation as a hedonistic den of sin. But look beyond the tired stereotypes to discover the increasingly swish and stylish capital of a booming Asian tiger.

Fueled by manufacturing and heavy industry, Thailand is currently experiencing an annual GDP growth rate of 7.8%. If you're not easily swayed by numbers, just step off the plane in Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), a soaring steel and glass behemoth of modern engineering.

Make no mistake about it. Thailand is on the rise.

The red-light district of Patpong may still be earning a quick baht, though Bangkok is anything but a one-trick pony. On the contrary, the city is flush with investment, boasting a new subway system, luxury shopping complexes, elite hotels and cosmopolitan restaurants.

Even Khao Sahn Road, SE Asia's legendary backpacker ghetto, is all-grown up. Peddlers selling banana pancakes and pad thai now share the streets with fashionable bistros, health and beauty spas, quaint B&Bs and child-friendly entertainment options.

As a nod to this impressive urban transformation, Gadling is proud to present '48 Hours in Bangkok.'

Continue reading 48 Hours in Bangkok

48 Hours in Bangkok originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bangkokthailandWed, 09 Mar 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Big in Japan: Bullet train set to beat domestic rail speed record]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/08/bullet-train-set-to-beat-domestic-speed-record/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/08/bullet-train-set-to-beat-domestic-speed-record/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/08/bullet-train-set-to-beat-domestic-speed-record/#commentsFiled under: ,

With the possible exception of the perfectly conical Mt. Fuji and the humble cherry blossom, there is perhaps no greater symbol of Japan than the shinkansen (新幹線) or bullet train. Racing across the archipelago at veritable race car speeds, the bullet train is the technological manifestation of performance, precision and elegance.

The statistics behind the bullet train are certainly impressive.

First debuting in 1964, the bullet train now runs along more than 1,500 miles of high-speed track. The rail system connects most major cities on the islands of Honshu and Kyushu, with planned extensions to Hokkaido starting in 2015.

Although world-speed records for conventional rail belong to the French TGV and the Chinese CRH, the Shinkansen is anything but a slow workhorse. The Nozomi superexpress, which runs between Tokyo and Hakata, reaches speeds of up to 180 mph. But there is a new bullet train in town that is about to change everything.

On that note, allow me to introduce you to the Hayabusa (はやぶさ) or Peregrine Falcon.

Continue reading Big in Japan: Bullet train set to beat domestic rail speed record

Big in Japan: Bullet train set to beat domestic rail speed record originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bullet trainBulletTrainJapanTue, 08 Mar 2011 10:00:00 EST