Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/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[Relaxing At The World's Highest Beer Spa In La Paz, Bolivia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/relaxing-at-the-worlds-highest-beer-spa-in-la-paz-bolivia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/relaxing-at-the-worlds-highest-beer-spa-in-la-paz-bolivia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/relaxing-at-the-worlds-highest-beer-spa-in-la-paz-bolivia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

adventure brew hostel At 11,975 feet above sea level, the city of La Paz in Bolivia is pretty high. In fact, it is the highest "de facto" capital city in the world. Because of this, it's not uncommon to experience some kind of reaction to the altitude. To help your body relax, backpackers can enjoy the world's highest beer spa at The Adventure Brew Hostel.

This hostel has many opportunities for experiencing Bolivia's beer culture. Along with having their own on-site microbrewery, giving guests a free beer each night and featuring a rooftop lounge, their beer spa allows for a unique outdoor experience.

"The beer spa came as an idea some six years ago. It was the result of having lots of leftover beer from Sayabeer brewery," explains Remo Baptista, creator of the beer venue. "We built two old hot tubs with brick chimneys - we can heat the water with wood under it - filled it with 20 liters of beer plus water and voilà!"

Continue reading Relaxing At The World's Highest Beer Spa In La Paz, Bolivia

Relaxing At The World's Highest Beer Spa In La Paz, Bolivia originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 17 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beerbeer spaBeerSpabudget travelBudgetTraveldrinkshealthla pazLaPaznightlifeThu, 17 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Bolivian Mennonites' Photography Exhibition Begins In New York]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/15/bolivian-mennonites-photography-exhibition-begins-in-new-york/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/15/bolivian-mennonites-photography-exhibition-begins-in-new-york/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/15/bolivian-mennonites-photography-exhibition-begins-in-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bolivian Mennonites photo exhibitionUnless you've followed the horrifying story of the serial rapists who wrecked havoc in the community in 2009, you might not know that the small South American country of Bolivia is home to a large community of Mennonites. Photographer Lisa Wiltse traveled to the isolated colony of Manitoba to capture the conservative community, who shun cars, electricity, and other modern conveniences, and live by a strict religious code. Many of the Mennonites do not speak Spanish, and women typically only speak low German, as the founders of the religion did in the 16th century.

Wiltse's photographs are a rare glimpse into an insular culture. If you are in New York City tonight, you can attend a reception and slideshow of Wiltse's work, moderated by the co-curator of The Half King's photography series. The art exhibition will be on display in the bar until July, and some of the photos can be viewed on the artist's website.

Photo courtesy The Half King. "Bolivian Mennonites" will be on display May 15 - July 9 in New York.

'Bolivian Mennonites' Photography Exhibition Begins In New York originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 15 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boliviabolivian mennonitesBolivianMennonitesexhibitionmanhattanMennonitemennonitesnew york cityNewYorkCityphotographyportraitsSouth AmericaTue, 15 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How To Survive Bolivia's Death Road]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/03/how-to-survive-bolivias-death-road/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/03/how-to-survive-bolivias-death-road/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/03/how-to-survive-bolivias-death-road/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

death road"This is the most dangerous road in the world. Don't become part of the landscape," advised Oscar, a biking guide from Vertigo Biking Co. Bolivia.

On a sunny Wednesday right outside of La Paz in Bolivia, I found myself adorned from head to toe in cycling gear, standing at the summit of a 40-mile downhill road. While technically called Old Road, the path is more commonly known as Death Road, even by locals. While I've written about numerous travel destinations with menacing names, such as Devil's Tooth in Bolivia, Death Valley in Chile and Hell's Gate in New Zealand, the name Death Road should be taken very literally.

The road was originally built by prisoners of war from Paraguay in 1932. Before 2006, Death Road was the only connection between La Paz and the jungle. According to Oscar, before this time there were about 25 cars per year and about 2 bikes per year that would fall over the edge. The terrain is rough and the road is narrow, so there isn't very much space to move over. Along the trail you can even see memorials dedicated to lost lives, like an area called "The Balcony," where several politicians were killed. If you climb down the steep valleys - which I don't advise - you can still see some buses that fell over the edge. Even knowing these facts, I knew it was something I had to experience for myself. It's kind of like flying; yes, people die on airplanes, but a majority of fliers survive the journey. I knew if I kept a positive attitude and focused, I too could survive Death Road.

Continue reading How To Survive Bolivia's Death Road

How To Survive Bolivia's Death Road originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTraveldeath roadDeathRoadla pazLaPazThu, 03 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Visiting The Devil's Tooth In La Paz, Bolivia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/02/visiting-the-devils-tooth-in-laz-paz-bolivia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/02/visiting-the-devils-tooth-in-laz-paz-bolivia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/02/visiting-the-devils-tooth-in-laz-paz-bolivia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

horseback riding When loud, traffic-heavy, protest-passionate La Paz gets to be too much, one way to escape while not even leaving the city is to visit the Devil's Tooth, or Muela del Diablo. While this may sound scarier than ingesting smog and crazy drivers, seeing the site on horseback is actually quite serene.

Devil's Tooth is an inactive volcano that is approximately 492 feet high. According to our guide, it got its name because indigenous people believed it looked like the tooth of Satan. The journey also allowed us to take in sweeping city views and Moon Valley, or Valle de la Luna. The valley gets its name from its unusual rock formations.

What I really loved about the area was how much culture there was. Along with stunning landscapes, there are indigenous women wearing traditional bowler hats working outside, children herding sheep and playing soccer, and small schools and homes residing on the hills. The trip really allowed for a glimpse into local life in Bolivia.

In the middle of the tour - once you get to the best lookout point of the trip - the group stops for an included lunch of fruit, a ham and cheese sandwich, and chocolate and flavored milk. The guides are Spanish speaking, but usually speak a little bit of English, too. Either way, talking isn't necessary to enjoy this trip. You can book through most travel agencies in La Paz. Expect to pay about $50.

For a more visual idea of the experience, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Visiting The Devil's Tooth, Moon Valley And The Countryside Of La Paz, Bolivia

Devil's Tooth

Visiting The Devil's Tooth In La Paz, Bolivia originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 02 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbackpackingcountryside in la pazCountrysideInLaPazdaytrips from la pazDaytripsFromLaPazdevils toothDevilsToothhorseback ridingHorsebackRidingla pazLaPazmoon valleyMoonValleyWed, 02 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cheesey Street Foods Of Latin America]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/cheesey-street-foods-of-latin-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/cheesey-street-foods-of-latin-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/cheesey-street-foods-of-latin-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

With the possible exception of Argentina, most people don't associate Central or South America with cheese. Like all of Latin America, these countries are a mix of indigenous cultures, colonizing forces, immigrant influences, and varied terroir, climatic extremes, and levels of industrialization. They possess some of the most biologically and geographically diverse habitats on earth. As a result, the cuisine and agricultural practices of each country have developed accordingly.

The use of dairy may not be particularly diverse in this part of the world, especially when it comes to styles of cheese, but it's an important source of nutrition and income in rural areas, and a part of nearly every meal.

While writing a book on cheese during the course of this past year, I tapped into my rather obsessive love of both street food and South America for inspiration. As I learned during my research, the sheer variety of cheesey street snacks from Mexico to Tierra del Fuego are as varied as the ethnic influences responsible for their creation. Read on for a tasty tribute to queso.

Arepas: These flat little corn or flour cakes from Colombia, Venezuela and Panama may be grilled, baked, boiled, or fried. They're usually stuffed or topped with a melting cheese, but may also feature meat, chicken, seafood, egg, or vegetables.

Anafres: Essentially Honduran nachos, composed of giant tortilla chips, refried beans and melted cheese. Named for an anafre, the coal-fired clay pot the dish is served in.

Pupusas: This Salvadorean staple is similar to an arepa: a thick, griddled corn cake stuffed with meat, cheese-usually a mild melting variety known as quesillo-chicarrones (pork cracklings), or queso con loroco (cheese with the buds or flowers of a vine native to Central America).

Continue reading Cheesey Street Foods Of Latin America

Cheesey Street Foods Of Latin America originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentinean foodArgentineanFoodasasdosbrazilian foodbrazilian street foodBrazilianFoodBrazilianStreetFoodbreaking newsBreakingNewscentral american street foodCentralAmericanStreetFoodCentralParkcheesecheese breadCheeseBreadcolumbian foodColumbianFoodcomedycornculinary travelCulinaryTravelEcuadorean foodEcuadoreanFoodempanadasEmpanadasEmpanadafood marketsfood on a stickFoodMarketsFoodOnAStickhdtvindigenous foodsIndigenousFoodsmasamexican street foodMexicanStreetFoodperuvian foodperuvian street foodPeruvianFoodPeruvianStreetFoodprovoletaquesadillassalvadorean foodSalvadoreanFoodsouth american cheeseSouthAmericanCheeseSouthKoreastreet foodStreetFoodvenezuelan foodVenezuelanFoodFri, 27 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Vagabond Tales: Salar De Uyuni, The Weirdest Place On Earth]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/23/vagabond-tales-salar-de-uyuni-the-weirdest-place-on-earth/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/23/vagabond-tales-salar-de-uyuni-the-weirdest-place-on-earth/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/23/vagabond-tales-salar-de-uyuni-the-weirdest-place-on-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Right now, as you read this, there are pink flamingos and wild llamas running amok on the shores of a red lake in Bolivia. In a land far, far away, people are watching the sunrise amidst steaming geysers while dodging puddles of boiling mud. There are hot springs where you can bathe nude at 15,000 ft, hotels made entirely of salt, and rocks that look exactly like trees.

No, this isn't peyote week in the Vagabond Tales office. I'm speaking of a real place, a place where I've been. It's a place I'm officially labeling as the weirdest place on Earth. In addition to all of the other oddities this is also the world's largest salt desert, and, as you might expect, this is a terrible place for your car to break down.

At 4,633 square miles Bolivia's Salar de Uyuni is a vast sea of salt larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined. Traffic is minimal and the roads are always shifting. If you get lost out here or lose your way you don't simply call AAA or check your GPS. These don't exist here in the southwestern hinterlands of Bolivia. If you get lost in the Salar de Uyuni, you start hoping that you aren't going to die.

Gallery: Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Land Cruisers in the moonscapeWild llamas and pink flamingos at 16,000 ft.A hotel made entirely from saltDriving through open white nothingnessSurfing on a water bottle

Continue reading Vagabond Tales: Salar De Uyuni, The Weirdest Place On Earth

Vagabond Tales: Salar De Uyuni, The Weirdest Place On Earth originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelBolivia salt flatsBoliviaSaltFlatsbudget-travelsalar de uyuniSalarDeUyuniUyuni salt flats tourUyuniSaltFlatsTourvagabondtalesMon, 23 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tips For Backpacking South America]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/17/tips-for-backpacking-south-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/17/tips-for-backpacking-south-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/17/tips-for-backpacking-south-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

south america Backpacking South America is a worthwhile adventure I recommend everyone to have at least once in their lives. Before I arrived on the continent, I was unsure of what to expect. To help prepare you before you go, here are some things I wish I had known before I left for my trip.

Know the Exchange Rate

The exchange rates vary considerably from country to country in South America. For example, while travelers can spend a lot of time in Bolivia and Peru, stretching their dollar very far, popular tourist cities in Brazil, Chile and the Galapagos Islands can be expensive. If you're on a budget, look up which cities are the most affordable beforehand. For example, I noticed in Argentina that the farther south I went - basically the farther into Patagonia - the
more expensive things cost. For example, my usual chicken sub went from being 10 to 15 Argentine Pesos ($2 to $3) in Buenos Aires to 45 to 60 Argentine Pesos ($10 to $14) in Bariloche.

Moreover, don't always think "roughing it" will save you money. Making use of the shelters on the "W" circuit in Torres del Paine and camping your way through the Inca Trail to Macchu Pichu are quite expensive. In fact, one night in a "refugio" in Torres del Paine will cost about $40 to $60 - and that only includes the mattress. Camping in the park is free if you bring your own gear; however, this can be tricky as the hike is difficult at times and you will have to carry your own
equipment. Moreover, to trek with a good company for the Inca Trail will cost about $500 to $650 for the trek.

Continue reading Tips For Backpacking South America

Tips For Backpacking South America originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbackpackingbudget travelBudgetTravelhikingsouth americaSouthAmericaTue, 17 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Holistic Healing Practices From Around The World]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/15/holistic-healing-practices-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/15/holistic-healing-practices-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/15/holistic-healing-practices-from-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

licorice rootNowadays, it seems like there's a pill or shot to cure every illness. But do we really know how safe these unnatural remedies are? Throughout my travels and by talking with locals from other cultures, I've learned there are many natural treatments that are also effective in promoting good health. For those who've ever wondered about the holistic secrets of other cultures, here are some answers.

Turkey

In Turkey, the trick to staying healthy is mesir paste. The concoction was invented in Manisa during the Ottoman Empire, when the wife of Sultan Yavuz Sultan Selim and mother of Suleyman the Magnificent became very ill. No doctor was able to find a cure, until one created a unique spice blend that seemed to bring the woman back to life. The mixture is a blend of 41 different spices that form a thick paste, and is used as a general cure-all and tonic. Some of the paste's ingredients include black pepper, cinnamon, licorice root (shown above), coconut and orange peel. The country is so proud of their natural remedy, they celebrate a Mesir Festival in Manisa each year.

Continue reading Holistic Healing Practices From Around The World

Holistic Healing Practices From Around The World originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget travelBudgetTravelculturedrinkecotourismfoodhealthholisticholistic remediiesHolisticRemediiesnatural remediesNaturalRemediesnaturewellnessSun, 15 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Witches' Market, La Paz, Bolivia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/24/video-witches-market-la-paz-bolivia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/24/video-witches-market-la-paz-bolivia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/24/video-witches-market-la-paz-bolivia/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Bolivia is an exciting adventure travel destination offering challenging mountain treks, interesting dishes like roast guinea pig and mysterious ancient ruins.

One of the most popular, and certainly the strangest, attraction is the Witches' Market in the capital La Paz. Here you can find mummified llama fetuses, aphrodisiacs and herbal remedies. Many of the spells are based on the ancient traditions of the Aymara people. You can also get your fortune told or get cured by one of the many yatiri, or witch doctors. There's Catholic paraphernalia too. In many regions of South America traditional beliefs merged with the Catholicism brought by the Spanish to create a hybrid tradition.

Check out this video where an intrepid traveler braves the Witches' Market and learns all about how to gain love and money, especially money. This is part one of three, so make sure to see the rest!

Video: Witches' Market, La Paz, Bolivia originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureadventure destinationadventure destinationsadventure vacationAdventure Vacationsadventure-travelAdventureDestinationAdventureDestinationsadventuresAdventureVacationAdventureVacationsAymaraAymara cultureAymaraCultureBoliviaBolivia tourismBolivia travelBoliviaTourismBoliviaTravelBrujaBrujascatholicismfolk magicfolkloreFolkMagicfolkwaysla PazLa Paz tourismLa Paz travelLaPazLaPazTourismLaPazTravelmagicmarketmarketsMercado de las BrujasMercadoDeLasBrujasshoppingSouth AmericaSouthAmericaspellspellstraditional marketsTraditionalMarketsWitchWitchesWitchesBrewSat, 24 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gallery: A guide to South American cocktails]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/08/gallery-a-guide-to-south-american-cocktails/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/08/gallery-a-guide-to-south-american-cocktails/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/08/gallery-a-guide-to-south-american-cocktails/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,


Margaritas, Cuba libres, piña coladas and mojitos are drinks with Latin American origins that have become staples at bars across America. But what about the drinks being mixed up further south? Whether you want to know what to order up at the bar during your next trip to South America or you are looking for a way to raise the bar at home, these mixed drinks will leave you thirsty for more.

Gallery: Cocktails in South America

CanelazoPisco SourGrappamielFernet & CokeCaipirinha

Gallery: A guide to South American cocktails originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alcoholargentinaboliviabrazilchilecocktailscolombiadrinksecuadorfood and drinkFoodAndDrinknightlifeperusouth americaSouthAmericauruguayWed, 08 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 best national parks in South America]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/15/10-best-national-parks-in-south-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/15/10-best-national-parks-in-south-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/15/10-best-national-parks-in-south-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



In South America, there are myriad diverse landscapes, unique flora, and endemic fauna to experience. With so many destination options on the continent, however, it can sometimes be hard to decide exactly where to go. National parks can provide beautiful and educational experiences in nature and, depending on where you visit, you can experience enormous glaciers, white sandy beaches, tropical rainforests, gushing waterfalls, jagged limestone cliffs, and hot thermal springs, sometimes all in one place. If you love birdwatching and wildlife viewing, South America is also home to many rare species that cannot be found anywhere else, like the giant tortoises of the Galapagos Islands or the spectacled bear in Peru. To help you plan your next trip to South America, or just to give you some inspiration from nature, check out the gallery below.

[Photo by Samuel Rochas, Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA-3.0]

Gallery: Best National Parks in South America

Cotopaxi National Park, EcuadorTorres del Paine, PatagoniaIguazu National Park, ArgentinaFernando de Noronha Martime National Park, BrazilCanaima National Park, Venezuela

10 best national parks in South America originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelcotopaxinational parksNationalParkssouth americaSouthAmericatorres del paineTorresDelPainevolcanovolcanosSun, 15 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bolivian president vetoes Amazon road]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/29/bolivian-president-vetoes-amazon-road/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/29/bolivian-president-vetoes-amazon-road/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/29/bolivian-president-vetoes-amazon-road/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bolivia votes down plan to build Amazon road. Bolivian President Evo Morales signed a law on Tuesday that forbids the construction of a new road through the Amazon Rainforest. The road was seen as a threat to the ecosystem of one of Bolivia's more popular national parks and a tribe of indigenous people that live there.

The new road was to be funded by Brazil and would have been approximately 177 km (109 miles) in length. But the Confederation of Indigenous Peoples of Bolivia, and a number of environmental groups spoke, out against the plans, and as a result, Bolivia's Legislative Assembly created a law halting construction on the project. The road would have passed through the Isiboro Sécure National Park and Indigenous Territory, but Morales' signature ensures that will never happen.

This story is similar to the plans to build a road across the Serengeti in Tanzania, which drew heavy criticism from conservationists and scientists alike. The government in that country said the route was necessary to promote economic development, but it was also seen as a major threat to the wildlife as well. Eventually the plans were abandoned in order to leave the Serengeti's ecosystem intact, but unlike Bolivia, it took months for the Tanzanian government to change their plans.

The road through the Amazon would have likely brought an economic boost to Bolivia as well, and that country could sure use one. But the government there recognized the value of their natural resources and didn't want to do anything to put those resources, or their people in danger. As a result, they made the hard, but correct, choice to resist the easy money in favor of protecting their environment for the future.

Bolivian president vetoes Amazon road originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 29 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelamazonAmazon jungleAmazon Rainforestamazon roadAmazonJungleAmazonRainforestAmazonRoadSat, 29 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 unique experiential hotels from around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/09/30/10-unique-experiential-hotels-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2011/09/30/10-unique-experiential-hotels-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2011/09/30/10-unique-experiential-hotels-from-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

A trend in the travel world that is becoming increasingly popular is the "experiential" hotel. Many travelers are no longer looking for a basic room in a premier location, but instead for an experience that will allow them to get to know an (often remote) area, or at least have their hotel be something they'll never forget. From staying in mines in the deepest hotel suite in the world to getting in touch with nature in a tree-top accommodation, these ten unique hotels are must-stays for the experiential traveler.

SnowHotel in Finland is an experiential hotel made entirely of snow and ice The SnowHotel
Location: Ylläsjärvi. Finland

This hotel is an experiential property located in the Snow Village, a compound of snow and ice making a restaurant, bar, lobbies, sculptures, walls, slides, and, of course, the SnowHotel. Stay overnight in a room made completely of snow and enjoy the illuminated ice art that surrounds you. Rooms range from double igloo rooms to "furnished" ice suites.

The Sala Silvermine
Location: Sala, Sweden

The Sala Silvermine is not for the claustrophobic. Stay in the deepest hotel suite on Earth. Once you arrive, you will be given a guided tour of the mine, once Sweden's largest producer of silver, which is 155 meters underground. After the tour, guests are given a goodie basket of fruit, biscuits, cheese, chocolate, and wine, which can be a romantic touch in the dim, candle-lit room. Prepare to rough it a little as the toilets are located 50 meters from the room, while the showers are above ground in the hostel.

Safari Land Tree Top Hotel in IndiaSafari Land Farm and Guest House Resort
Location: Tamilnadu, India

Often called the Tree House Resort, Safari Land will really get you in touch with nature. Safari Land is specifically designed with wilderness lovers, bird watchers, and environmentally conscious. Guests will stay in tree houses perched above 4,000 feet high hills. Look down and you will see a tranquil stream pouring down the hill. Look forward and your view will be of the Blue Mountains in India. And for those who want to have a rustic experience but still enjoy some comforts of home, electricity, toilets, and hot water are available.

La Balade des Gnomes
Location: Heyd Nr Durbuy, Wallonia, Belgium

La Balade des Gnomes is an experiential hotel for those who have a big imagination. With a fairy-tale theme in mind, the rooms are extremely detailed and over-the-top. Sleep in a boat under twinkling lights while floating in a swimming pool or opt for the enormous Trojan Horse Suite where you will literally be staying inside a trojan horse.

Palacio de Sal
Location: Uyuni,Bolivia

Those with high sodium levels, beware! The Palacio de Sal is, exactly as the name states, made entirely out of salt. Not only are the walls, ceilings, and floors made out of salt, but also the furniture. And, it doesn't stop there. Salt artwork and a salt golf-course are also part of the experience.

Controversy Tram Inn
Location: Hoogwoud, Netherlands

Guests of the Controversy Tram Inn can experience sleeping in a railcar converted into a 5-room Bed and Breakfast, each with a unique theme. A double bed, shower, sink, and toilet are also included. Next to the experiential hotel live the owners, Frank and Irma Appel, who also live like their guests, sleeping in a London double-decker bus in their living room and eating in a kitchen that is now a French Van.

Diver at Jules Undersea Lodge in FloridaJules Undersea Lodge
Location: Key Largo, Florida

Imagine having to dive underwater to get to your room? If you stay at Jules Undersea Lodge, this becomes a reality, as guests dive 21 feet to get to this completely submerged experiential hotel. Meals and luggage are handled in waterproof suitcases, and the food is actually hot. Each room holds a 42-inch round window so that guests can check out the many species of sea life swimming in the lagoon. If you're into diving, the hotel provides unlimited tanks for their guests to explore the sea.

Propeller Island City Lodge
Location: Berlin, Germany

With rooms designed by German artist Lars Stroschen, staying here is like sleeping in a giant work of art, with upside-down rooms and flying beds. Everything you find in the Propeller Island City Lodge is custom-made and one-of-a-kind. Rooms range from mild to extreme and have the ability to alter your sense of reality. Be prepared for surprises everywhere you turn.

Wigwam experiential hotel in Holbrook, ArizonaWigwam Motel
Location: Holbrook, Arizona

The Wigwam Motel is one of the last standing Wigwam hotels left from a 1950's chain. In 2002, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guests have the opportunity to stay in one of 14 authentic-looking teepees. Making the stay more experiential is the fact that it is located in close proximity to a number of Native American Reservations. Unlike Indian-style teepees, however, guests at Wigwam can enjoy double-beds and air-conditioning.

The Boot Bed 'n' Breakfast
Location: Tasman, New Zealand

Remember the childhood nursery rhyme The Old Woman Who Lived in the Shoe? Well picture that, but a lot more luxurious. This giant boot is located on 6 acres of gardens, courtyards, and well-manicured property. With private outdoor seating, a spiral wooden staircase, a cozy fireplace, and fresh flowers in rooms made for two, it is easy to see why the Boot Bed 'n' Breakfast is the perfect romantic experience for couples. Still, if you're single and still want to see what it's like to sleep in a giant shoe, make the trip anyway.

10 unique experiential hotels from around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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I think it's when we started hand feeding piranhas to wild black caimans that the reality of the situation really set in. Although this was part of a 4-day "guided tour", I sat there and watched an overzealous Israeli man nearly get his right hand bitten off.

Slightly nervous, I jokingly asked a local guide from an adjacent tour if anyone has ever actually lost their hand. Without breaking his gaze from an even larger predator lurking in the muddy waters behind us, he claimed that last year there had only been 5. Not sure what to make of his blunt response, I couldn't help but remind myself that this is Bolivia, and here, there are no such things as rules. Two days later, this same guide would temporarily remove some alligator eggs from the toothy mother just to get a rise out of her.

The 40-minute flight from the capital city of La Paz to the jungle outpost of Rurrenabaque should have been an indicator of what we were getting ourselves into. Even now I'm still not sure which element of the flight was more disconcerting: landing on a dirt runway that's covered in livestock, cramming 8 people into an aircraft where you sit directly behind the pilot, or passing through the clouds in the Cordillera Real section of the Andes-the first time in my life I've actually been looking up at mountain peaks from the window of an airplane.

Oh, and I'm sharing the aircraft with my wife. Who's afraid of flying. And if that's not enough, this is our honeymoon.

Gallery: The Bolivian Pampas

Feeding alligators in the Bolivian Pampas

Continue reading Las Pampas, Bolivia: 3 days on South America's most dangerous tour

Las Pampas, Bolivia: 3 days on South America's most dangerous tour originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 10 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Backpack BoliviaBackpackBoliviaBeni RiverBeniRiverBolivia eco-lodgesBolivia PampasBoliviaEco-lodgesBolivian PampasBolivianPampasBoliviaPampasMadidi National ParkMadidiNationalParkPampas TourPampasTourRurrenabaque Pampas TourRurrenabaquePampasTourSat, 10 Sep 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Black Tomato launches Epic Tomato, an ambitious new adventure offshoot]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/26/black-tomato-launches-epic-tomato-an-ambitious-new-adventure-of/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/26/black-tomato-launches-epic-tomato-an-ambitious-new-adventure-of/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/26/black-tomato-launches-epic-tomato-an-ambitious-new-adventure-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


For years Black Tomato has delighted old travel hands with its inventive, bespoke itineraries to various corners of the globe. The company is especially good at showcasing beautiful destinations not yet well-known to most travelers beyond the surrounding region. Among others, Belgrade, the Carpathian foothills, the Kuronian Spit, and Bhutan have all been embraced by the company.

This morning, Black Tomato launched Epic Tomato, which showcases a selection of hardcore adventure experiences to very hard-to-reach places. These adventures are scheduled for lengths of between four to 21 days, and are grouped into five categories: Polar, Desert, Jungle, Mountain, and River. They are all led by serious expert guides, some with SAS (British special service) military backgrounds.

Bolivia's Apolobamba mountain range, Mali's Dogon region, the Star Mountains of Papua New Guinea (see above), the Mosquito Coast of Honduras, and East Greenland are just a few of the destinations reached by Epic Tomato tours.

Epic Tomato's frankly epic experiences don't come cheap. At the bottom end of the scale, three adventures come in at £5995 ($9660): 14 days in Papua New Guinea's East New Britain and Duke of York Islands; a 21-day trek in Tibet and Nepal; and eight days in Chilean Patagonia. At the very high end: 12 days on Canada's Ellesmere Island for £67,495 ($108,720).

Black Tomato launches Epic Tomato, an ambitious new adventure offshoot originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 26 Feb 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antarcticablack tomatoBlackTomatocanadaChilechilean patagoniaChileanPatagoniaellesmere islandEllesmereIslandepic tomatoEpicTomatolondonNepalpapua new guineaPapuaNewGuineatibetSat, 26 Feb 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bolivia campaigns to legalize coca]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/20/bolivia-campaigns-to-legalize-coca/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/20/bolivia-campaigns-to-legalize-coca/http://www.gadling.com/2011/01/20/bolivia-campaigns-to-legalize-coca/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

Four Loko, meet Coca Colla. CNN reports that Bolivia has launched a campaign to legalize coca, a native plant that has been used for medicinal purposes and as a mild stimulant by the indigenous peoples of the Andes for thousands of years. And yes, coca does contain trace amounts of cocaine. The leaves are used in purified forms of the narcotic, which is what led the United Nations to ban coca in the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotics Drugs. The Bolivian government would like the ban amended to make coca a controlled, but not illegal, substance.

Coca leaf is considered saced amongst Andean peoples, and historically has been used to combat everything from altitude sickness to rheumatism (it has anaesthetic properties). The leaves are also used as a digestive aid, and to suppress hunger, thirst, and fatigue. Coca is traditionally chewed or used or as a tea, but now, coca-infused energy drinks are taking the market by storm. Las year, Coca Colla was introduced; it was such a hit that a new beverage, Coca Brynco, debuted this week.

Bolivian president Evo Morales--a former union leader for coca growers--is on a mission to convince the rest of the world of coca's legitimate non-addictive uses. Bolivian Foreign Minister David Choquehuanca has embarked this week on a tour of Europe, hoping to convince EU leaders to support the campaign. The U.S. is not onboard the coca train, and filed a formal objection to legalize it on Wednesday. January 31st is the deadline for all UN members to cast their votes.

Continue reading Bolivia campaigns to legalize coca

Bolivia campaigns to legalize coca originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altitude sicknessaltitude sickness curesAltitudeSicknessAltitudeSicknessCuresAndesAphrodisiacsBolivian PresidentBolivianPresidentbotanycocaCoca Collacoca cultivationcoca plantationscoca useCocaCollaCocaCultivationcocaineCocaPlantationsCocaProductionCocaUsecures for altitude sicknessCuresForAltitudeSicknessenergy drinksEnergyDrinksethnobotanyfatigueherbal remediesHerbalRemediesInca TrailIncaTrailindigenous communitiesindigenous peoplesIndigenousCommunitiesIndigenousPeoplesjet lag cureJetLagCureMacchu PicchuMacchuPicchumate de cocaMateDeCocamedicinal herbsmedicinal plantsMedicinalHerbsMedicinalPlantsnarcotic traffickingnarcoticsNarcoticTraffickingnatural remediesnatural stimulantsnatural stiumulantsNaturalRemediesNaturalStimulantsNaturalStiumulantsportersQuechua peopleQuechuaPeopletrekkingtrekking in AndesTrekkingInAndesUnited NationsUnitedNationsThu, 20 Jan 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling's 2011 New Year's travel resolutions]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/29/gadlings-new-years-travel-resolutions/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/29/gadlings-new-years-travel-resolutions/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/29/gadlings-new-years-travel-resolutions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

New Year'sIt's that time of year again. A time when we all make certain promises to ourselves, in an attempt to make our lives more organized, our bodies stronger or leaner. We vow to spend more time with loved ones, give back to others, or ditch that cubicle job. And some of us...well, we just want to keep on traveling, any way we can manage to finagle it.

In the spirit of New Year's, I asked my fellow Gadling contributors about their travel resolutions for the coming year, and came up with some of my own. Our goals are all over the map (no pun intended), but a common theme emerged. Despite our love of exotic adventures, most of us want to spend more time exploring in our own backyard (that would be the United States). That, and invent musical underwear.

Leigh Caldwell
  • Go on my first cruise.
  • Spend a weekend somewhere without Internet access, and, if I survive that...
  • Celebrate the Fourth of July with my family in Banner Elk, North Carolina, home of the quintessential small-town Independence Day. There's a three-legged race, a rubber ducky race down a mountain stream, and a parade filled with crepe paper, balloons, and every kid and dog in town.
McLean Robbins
  • Quit my "day job" so I can do this full-time.
[Photo credit: Flickr user nlmAdestiny]

Continue reading Gadling's 2011 New Year's travel resolutions

Gadling's 2011 New Year's travel resolutions originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 has been declared the International Year of Biodiversity to help raise awareness of the vast numbers of species that exist on our planet and the challenges that now threaten many of them with extinction. There is no place on the planet that exemplifies the concept of biodiversity like the Amazon jungle, which is home to thousands of different animal species and tens of thousands of plants. But as striking as those numbers are, a new report indicates that we're still discovering new species at a surprising rate.

The World Wildlife Fund recently released a comprehensive study entitled Amazon Alive: A Decade of Discoveries 1999-2009 which details some of the amazing plants and animals that have been found in the rainforest over the past ten years. During that time frame, a total of 637 plants, 257 fish, 216 amphibians, 55 reptiles, 16 birds and 39 mammals have been discovered in the Amazon basin. Those numbers represent one new species of plant or animal has been found every three days for the bast decade!

Amongst the new species that were discovered between 1999 and 2009 are a breed of pink river dolphin that exist only in Bolivia and a new species of anaconda that stretches four meters in length and is a master at hiding amongst the trees. Biologists have also found a bald species of parrot that is spectacularly colored and a large, blue-fanged spider that preys on birds.

In the report the WWF also emphasizes how important it is to protect these species and the rainforest in general. The Amazon plays an important role in our planets ecosystem, and in recent years it has come under threat from massive deforestation efforts.

With a new species found every three days, this is just the tip of the iceberg for what has been uncovered in the Amazon over the past ten years. These kinds of reports are a great reminder about how amazing our planet is, and how much we still have to learn about it. It is also a good reminder of why we should take good care of it as well.

[Photo credit: Chris Funk]

New report says Amazon reveals one new species every three days originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelamazonAmazon jungleAmazon RainforestAmazonJungleAmazonRainforestanimalsbiodiversityplantsWildlifeworld wildlife fundWorldWildlifeFundThu, 28 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 souvenir hats from around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/23/top-10-souvenir-hats-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/23/top-10-souvenir-hats-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/23/top-10-souvenir-hats-from-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ever notice how every airport, tourist trap, and hotel gift shop is trying to sell you some kind of hat? That's because a hat is local. In a globalized world where McDonald's is universal and Duty Free in Dubai sells the exact same sunglasses and chocolate as Duty Free in Detroit, it's nice to know that there are certain things (like hats) that you can still only find in certain far-flung destinations. Once upon a time, the hats hanging in the back of your closet said loads about where you've been and what you're been up to, especially if you have the real deal. Read and learn:

Fez This red felt hat may be named after the tourist-loving Moroccan city of Fes, but it's traditionally found all across the former Ottoman empire as well as much of the Muslim world. Worn by: dancing monkeys, Muammar al-Qaddafi, bellhops in Cairo. Cheap knock-offs: The Shriners and some Istanbul bazaars. The Real Deal: Moroccan hatmakers, markets in Cyprus and the Balkans, the Turkish army.
Panama hat A finely handwoven straw hat still made in Ecuador, even though Panama takes all the credit. Worn by: Teddy Roosevelt,Panama Jack, and the poor laborers who dug the Panama Canal. Cheap knock-off: Paper imitations are made in China and sell for little while lesser-quality imitations are made and sold all over Panama for under $30. The Real Deal: Like sheets, what counts in authentic Panama hats is thread count. The tighter the weave, the better the quality (real Panama Hats will hold water and have more than 1,000 fibers per square inch). Hats must be made in Ecuador from the toquilla plant and have a black silk band around the base. Buy at fine shops in Panama, in Ecuador, or else for several thousand dollars at Christie's in London.

Continue reading Top 10 souvenir hats from around the world

Top 10 souvenir hats from around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andesauthenticatorberetbuyoutFelipe MassaFelipeMassahathatsknockoffnon laNonLaPithHelmetshapkashoppingsouvenirsouvenirswoolFri, 23 Jul 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten outdoor destinations with everything!]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/19/ten-outdoor-destinations-with-everything/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/19/ten-outdoor-destinations-with-everything/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/19/ten-outdoor-destinations-with-everything/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Who says you can't have it all? For many travelers vacation time is limited. Those in search of adventure want to maximize that short window of travel time. Here are ten cities where adventure-seekers can expand their options with a range of heart-pounding choices.

Buena Vista, Colorado
Buena Vista translates to "beautiful view." It's easy to understand why the name stuck. Nestled into the central Colorado highlands, this Colorado town just might be the hidden adventure gem of the Rockies. Peak-baggers have twenty 14ers within roughly an hour-and-a-half drive from Buena Vista, making it a perfect base camp for high-altitude hiking. Ski Cooper, Monarch and Aspen are all close by for a winter sports fix and the class III-V Arkansas River provides thrilling whitewater rafting all summer long.

Cape Town, South Africa
South Africa is considered by many to be the adrenaline capital of the world. Cape Town has no shortage of blood-pumping options. Traditional sports like sea kayaking and mountain biking are epic here, but there's also more unique endeavors like sand boarding. If that's still not enough to get adrenaline junkies excited, there's always the shark cage diving experience.

Continue reading Ten outdoor destinations with everything!

Ten outdoor destinations with everything! originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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