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[Video: 'No Kitchen Required' In New Zealand, 'When Maori Attack']]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/10/video-no-kitchen-required-in-new-zealand-when-maori-attack/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/10/video-no-kitchen-required-in-new-zealand-when-maori-attack/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/10/video-no-kitchen-required-in-new-zealand-when-maori-attack/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Here at Gadling, we've been keeping tabs on the new BBC America reality show "No Kitchen Required," which is taking cooking competitions to new highs (and lows). Battling for fame and glory are award-winning chef Michael Psilakis of New York's Fish Tag and Kefi; private executive chef Kayne Raymond; and former "Chopped" champ Madison Cowan.

The chefs hunt and gather ingredients to prepare regional cuisine in various locations, including Dominica, Belize, Fiji, Thailand, South Africa, Hawaii, New Mexico and Louisiana. The show is a cross between "Survivor" and "Top Chef," with a dash of over-the-top, Bear Grylls-style drama thrown in, but it's all in good fun and provides a fascinating cultural and culinary tour of little known destinations and cuisines.

Here, we have a teaser clip from New Zealand that features the chefs watching a haka, or traditional Maori warrior dance, prior to having the local community judge their respective meals. Here's hoping they didn't give anyone food poisoning.

Video: 'No Kitchen Required' In New Zealand, 'When Maori Attack' originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bear grylsBearGrylscelebritycooking classescooking competitioncooking showsCookingClassesCookingCompetitionCookingShowscuilnary tourismCuilnaryTourismcultural tourismcultural travelCulturalTourismCulturalTravelforaginghakahangiHawaiiihunting and gatheringHuntingAndGatheringindigenous foodsindigenous peopleIndigenousFoodsIndigenousPeoplelocal foodsLocalFoodslocavoresLouisianamao zedongmaoriMaoZedongNew MexicoNew Ze foodNewMexicoNewZeFoodnokiareality showsRealityShowsregional foodsRegionalFoodssurvivorTue, 10 Apr 2012 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC America Launches 'No Kitchen Required' (Or: 'Top Chef' + Adventure Travel)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/03/bbc-america-launches-no-kitchen-required-or-top-chef-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/03/bbc-america-launches-no-kitchen-required-or-top-chef-travel/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/03/bbc-america-launches-no-kitchen-required-or-top-chef-travel/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With another "Top Chef" season behind us, foodies now have a new culinary competition show to look forward to: BBC America's "No Kitchen Required." A combination of "Top Chef" and an adventure travel show, NKR keeps the chefs static while changing location each week. And instead of the focus on a tournament style competition, the focus lies on the challenges presented by each new destination.

The three chefs involved -- Michael Psilakis, Madison Cowan and Kayne Raymond -- need to find and prepare their food in situ while on location, whether that's in the jungle, the Arctic or wherever their crew lands. They're judged by local experts and though there's a winner each week it's a fairly friendly competition.

The kind folks at BBC America sent over a screener of NKR to Gadling Labs this weekend and we took a look. There are some distinctive similarities to "Top Chef." There's a beautiful, slender host, the timed cooking and judging is identical and the frustrating production is similar to many of the unscripted series choking the market. Where "No Kitchen Required" really excels is in its cast and the narrative. The chefs are really positive and respectful, throttling down the drama to focus on the destination and the local culture. The story weaves through the location and the audience can learn not only about the food, but also about the history and the landscape of the setting. For this travel writer, those virtues make "No Kitchen Required" volumes better than "Top Chef."

"No Kitchen Required" airs tonight on BBC America at 10/9C. Check out the exclusive clip above for a taste of the series premier.

BBC America Launches 'No Kitchen Required' (Or: 'Top Chef' + Adventure Travel) originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBC AmericaBbcAmericacaribbeandominicano kitchen requiredNoKitchenRequiredTue, 03 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New BBC America cooking show combines travel and adventure]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/02/new-bbc-america-cooking-show-combines-travel-and-adventure/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/02/new-bbc-america-cooking-show-combines-travel-and-adventure/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/02/new-bbc-america-cooking-show-combines-travel-and-adventure/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

It was only a matter of time before all the eating of rats and scorpions on "Survivor" grew tiresome. Perhaps that's why producer Kevin Greene and "Chopped" producer Chachi Senior created a new cooking series for BBC America that combines exotic locales with dodgy outdoor adventures. There's just one little catch: there's no kitchen.

"No Kitchen Required" takes 2008 Food & Wine "Best New Chef" Michael Psilakis of New York's Fish Tag and Kefi, private executive chef Kayne Raymond (aka the resident beefcake), and former "Chopped" champ Madison Cowan, and drops them into ten remote locations to perform some serious hunting and gathering.

After being plunked down in Dominica; Belize; New Zealand; Fiji; Thailand; Hawaii; New Mexico; Louisiana, and Florida, each chef is handed a knife ("Pack your knives and go," is not a sentence you'll hear uttered on this series) and a few key ingredients. They're then left to fish, hunt, forage, and otherwise scrounge up the remaining ingredients to "create a locally-inspired meal that will be judged by the community."

Despite the gimmicky and somewhat contrived nature of the challenges, there's a lot to love about this show. It's fun, innovative, and despite my raging addiction to "Top Chef," I'm happy to see a cooking show that finally requires the use of local/seasonal ingredients (let's hope there's no blow-darting of endangered monkeys or serving of shark fin). Weaving the regional and cultural element into the concept is genius. Braised nutria, anyone?

The series premieres April 3rd.

[Photo credit: (C) Gilles Mingasson for BBC AMERICA]

New BBC America cooking show combines travel and adventure originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCchinacookbook of the dayCookbookOfTheDaycooking classesCooking-Mama-LtdCookingClassesculinary travelCulinaryTravelcultural foodsCulturalFoodsfishingflightfood showdownfood showsFoodShowdownFoodShowsforaginghawaii five-oHawaiiFive-ohuntingjunglelocal foodLocalFoodLouisiana oil spillLouisianaOilSpillNew Mexiconew tv showsNewMexicoNewTvShowsreality seriesreality show castingRealitySeriesRealityShowCastingregional foodsRegionalFoodsTop ChefTopCheftropicsFri, 02 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The world's most ethical tourism destinations]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/18/the-worlds-most-ethical-tourism-destinations/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/18/the-worlds-most-ethical-tourism-destinations/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/18/the-worlds-most-ethical-tourism-destinations/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

ethical tourism destinationsEach year, non-profit organization Ethical Traveler conducts a survey of the world's developing nations, analyzing their progress toward promoting human rights, preserving their environment, and developing a sustainable tourism industry. The study, run by Ethical Traveler's all-volunteer staff, factors in country scores from databases like Freedom House, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and the World Bank, then dives into actions that governments have taken to improve circumstances within their countries in the previous year.

The top countries are celebrated in Ethical Traveler's annual list of the Developing World's Best Ethical Tourism Destinations, with the hope that increased tourism will help those countries continue to improve. "Travel and tourism are among the planet's driving economic forces, and every journey we take makes a statement about our priorities and commitment to change," they say. "Ethical Traveler believes that mindful travel is a net positive for the planet. By choosing our destinations well and remembering our role as citizen diplomats, we can create international goodwill and help change the world for the better."

This year's list includes Argentina, the Bahamas, Chile, Costa Rica, Dominica, Latvia, Mauritius, Palau, Serbia, and Uruguay. Explore these countries more in the slideshow below.

Gallery: The world's most ethical tourism destinations

ArgentinaMauritiusLatviaPalauUruguay


[Flickr image via Lisandro M. Enrique]

The world's most ethical tourism destinations originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentinabahamaschilecominicaconscious travelConsciousTravelcosta ricaCostaRicadeveloping worldDevelopingWorldethical tourismethical travelerEthicalTourismEthicalTravelerfreedom houseFreedomHousehuman rightsHumanRightslatvialistmauritiuspalauserbiasustainable tourismSustainableTourismuruguayWed, 18 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling's favorite destinations for 2011]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/07/gadlings-favorite-destinations-for-2011/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/07/gadlings-favorite-destinations-for-2011/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/07/gadlings-favorite-destinations-for-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

gadling favorite destinations 2011

We travel a lot, to destinations both well-known and unfamiliar. In our defense, it is our job to travel like mad, to explore the world and then write about our discoveries.

Though most travel writers find something or other of interest in most places we visit, there are always those personal favorites that rise above the rest. This year, we decided to scribble our favorites down for you. Some of these spots we're tipping for greater coverage in 2011, while others are simply tried-and-true favorites that we can't stop raving about to our friends and the various publications that allow us to write for them. Over the course of this week, we'll weigh in on our favorite hotels, airlines, gadgets, apps, and websites.

So, without further ado: Gadling's favorite destinations for 2011.

Mike Barish. St. Kitts. I genuinely enjoy how locals and visitors frequent the same beach bars and restaurants. During evenings on the strip, I'd recognize staff members from my hotel doing the same thing I was doing: enjoying the ocean breeze with a cocktail and some jerk chicken.

Kraig Becker. Everest Base Camp, Nepal. For adventure travelers, a visit to Everest Base Camp is one of the best treks in the world. The 12-day hike isn't just about the destination, however, as you walk in the shadow of the Himalaya each day, passing through sleepy mountain villages steeped in Sherpa culture along the way. The scenery, and altitude, is a breathtaking once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Continue reading Gadling's favorite destinations for 2011

Gadling's favorite destinations for 2011 originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aitutakibogotabolognaBulgariaburgundycarowindscayman islandsCaymanIslandscharlottechinacolombiacook islandsCookIslandsCotopaxidominicadrome-provencalecuadorEthiopiaEverestBaseCampfinlandfrancegenevagenoahanoiHelsinkiItalian RivieraItalianRivieraitalyJapanko changKoChangkyotoLaoslimaluang prabangLuangPrabangmassif centralMassifCentralMexicoNepalnicaraguaparisperuPositanoromeSayulitaShanghaiSt. KittsSt.KittsswitzerlandtelluridethailandtrinidadTrinidadAndTobagotuscanyViennavietnamZambiaTue, 07 Dec 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten budget-friendly Caribbean destinations]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/22/ten-budget-friendly-caribbean-destinations/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/22/ten-budget-friendly-caribbean-destinations/http://www.gadling.com/2010/11/22/ten-budget-friendly-caribbean-destinations/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ten budget-friendly Caribbean destinations
If you get all your information about the Caribbean from travel magazines, you might find yourself convinced that a night's stay in the region will set you back somewhere in the neighborhood of $500. The Caribbean's super posh reputation has its roots in the region's tourism history; until relatively recently, tourism in the Caribbean was largely restricted to the very rich. And as one might expect in a region that has historically catered to the rich, there are lots of impossibly exclusive luxury properties in the Caribbean today.

But these resorts do not and should not define tourism in the region. There are many spots across the Caribbean where costs are low and the quality of experiences on offer is high. Here are ten destinations where low hotel rates, exciting activities, and compelling local culture make for real budget-friendly value.

If you find this post interesting, be sure to check out Gadling's archive of budget-friendly travel stories.

1. Carriacou, Grenada. North of the main island of Grenada is the laid-back island of Carriacou. There are some great beaches on the island (see above for evidence.) A fantastically budget-friendly place to stay is the lovely Green Roof Inn (from $40 for one; from $70 for two) north of Hillsborough, the island's main settlement.

2. Havana, Cuba. Day-to-day expenses in the Cuban capital can be quite cheap. Casas particulares (owner-occupied bed-and-breakfast establishments) can be found for about $30 for two, and meals can be cobbled together for very little. Cultural events are astoundingly cheap, and reasonable taxi rates can be negotiated. For a listing of good casas particulares, check out CubaParticular and Casa Particular.

3. Big Corn Island, Nicaragua. It is often forgotten that the Caribbean Sea extends to Central America. Big Corn Island off the coast of Nicaragua presents a fascinating mélange of English-speaking Creoles and Spanish- and Miskito-speaking transplants from the mainland. Though undeniably hardscrabble, Big Corn Island has some beautiful territory and some unbelievably cheap hotels. Try Princesa de la Isla (from $60, with excellent Italian meals on offer) and Martha's Bed and Breakfast (from $50). These are, by the way, among the most expensive places to stay on the island.

4. Saba. Referred to by locals as the "Unspoiled Queen," Saba is one of the most beautiful and least well-known corners of the Caribbean. A mountain jutting out of the sea, it has no beaches and few obvious tourist draws beyond diving. Visitors discover cute villages full of houses with gingerbread trim, lush hiking trails, and outstanding views. Check out the Ecolodge Rendez-Vous (from $75) and El Momo (from $50 for one; $65 for two).

5. Anegada, British Virgin Islands. It takes a concerted effort to get here, but once on this furthest-flung of the BVIs, accommodations can be quite reasonable. The limestone island boasts some of the loveliest beaches in the entire region, yet has seen surprisingly little tourist development. Neptune's Treasure offers double rooms starting at $110 in high season.

Continue reading Ten budget-friendly Caribbean destinations

Ten budget-friendly Caribbean destinations originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anegadabig corn islandBigCornIslandbonanzabritish virgin islandsBritishVirginIslandsbudget travelbudget-travelBudgetTravelcaribbeancarriacou-islandcubadominicagrenadaGuadeloupehavanamarie galanteMarieGalanteMontserratnicaraguasabaMon, 22 Nov 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Three extraordinary Caribbean hotels for under $150]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/21/three-extraordinary-caribbean-hotels-for-under-150-per-night-of/http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/21/three-extraordinary-caribbean-hotels-for-under-150-per-night-of/http://www.gadling.com/2010/07/21/three-extraordinary-caribbean-hotels-for-under-150-per-night-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Yes, the Caribbean is awfully hot right now. And yes, faithful watchers of weather, hurricane season is indeed upon us. But for the next several months, visitors to the Caribbean will benefit from low-season rates that make the region a great value for cost-conscious travelers. With very few exceptions, low season in the Caribbean lasts until mid-November at the earliest and mid-December at the latest.

Here are three very special Caribbean hotels that are set apart from the pack. All offer double rooms in low-season for $150 per night or less. Uncommon care is taken by the proprietors of these three hotels to create remarkable, unique, and locally-grounded environments. All are hugely successful at their mission.

1. Hotel Mocking Bird Hill, Port Antonio, Jamaica.

Tucked into the hills above Port Antonio, Hotel Mocking Bird Hill feels like a hidden treasure. It's surrounded by fabulous greenery and operates along comprehensively eco-friendly principles, with local staff, reliance on solar energy and rainwater harvesting, anaerobic wastewater treatment, and the absence of in-room air-conditioning. (On the last count, don't worry. At this altitude air-conditioning is not essential.) There's a swimming pool here for guests who don't want to schlep down to the coast's beaches. The hotel's restaurant, Mille Fleurs, which sources much of its bounty locally, is unequivocally fantastic. Doubles begin at $138 per night in the off-season. Mocking Bird Hill may close for a week or two in September.

2. Papillote Wilderness Retreat, Roseau, Dominica.

On Dominica, quite possibly the greenest and least exploited island in the Caribbean, another exquisite eco-resort can be found: Papillote Wilderness Retreat, a true labor of love. The resort stretches over a hillside that doubles as a well-maintained botanical garden. The grounds boast mineral springs (one hot and one cold) for soaking. Rooms are simple but cheerful, and make the most of Papillote's natural setting. The hotel's restaurant is top-notch and stocked more often than not with local produce. Hotel staff teem with knowledge about the island's history and ecology. They can assist in organizing hikes and other tours of the island led by able local guides. Doubles begin at $115 per night. Note that Papillote will be closed in September and the first three weeks of October.

3. Auberge Les Petits Saints, Terre-de-Haut, Guadeloupe.

This beautifully furnished hotel, with an aesthetic somewhere between ornate country estate and neon-pastel riot, offers lovely views over the island of Terre-de-Haut (see above) in Guadeloupe's Les Saintes archipelago. There really is a feel of antique abandon here, which is delightful through and through. There is a pool on the property, as well. This is France, albeit overseas France, and the in-house restaurant is of course very good, with a mouthwatering Basque tasting plate and fanciful cocktails as standouts. The cozy restaurant terrace twinkles with lights and conversations at night and is without question a really special place to spend an evening. Doubles begin at €110 (currently $141) per night during low season.

(Image: Alex Robertson Textor)

Three extraordinary Caribbean hotels for under $150 originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budget-traveldominicaGuadeloupejamaicales saintesLesSaintesport antonioPortAntonioRoseauWed, 21 Jul 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trade Mocked]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/04/10/trade-mocked/http://www.gadling.com/2010/04/10/trade-mocked/http://www.gadling.com/2010/04/10/trade-mocked/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

You were a cheerleader, you dated a cheerleader, or you hated the cheerleaders. As I recall, that's how high school worked.

Thanks to travel PR, that same primeval paradigm lives on long after graduation. That miniskirts-shouting-slogans thing still works, whether you're a used car salesman, Miley Cyrus on VH1 or the tourist board of a small Balkan nation. When it comes to selling your destination in today's busy world of busy people, a country's name just isn't enough--just like school spirit, you need colors, a pep band, a mascot, a brand and most important--a cheer.

It's tragic but true: tourist boards don't trust their country's name to inspire appropriate thoughts in your brain. Toponyms are too open-ended and too untrustworthy--also, way too obvious. For example, what's the first thing that pops into your head when I say . . . Monte Carlo? How about Australia? The Bahamas? Kuwait? The Gambia?

Whatever you're thinking, it's not enough. Tourist boards want you to choose their destination over all others, then allocate all of your vacation days to them and then come spend your money on very specific things--like miniature golf by the sea or hot air balloon rides across the prairie. In short, they want your school spirit so much they're churning out cheers to fill up all the Swiss cheese holes in your mental map of the world.

Like a good cheer, a good destination slogan is simple and so memorable it sticks in your head like two-sided tape. Sex sells, but then so does love: "Virginia is for Lovers", Hungary offers visitors "A Love for Life", Albania promises "A New Mediterranean Love", while the highlighted "I feel Slovenia" spells out sweetly "I Feel Love". Meanwhile, Bosnia & Herzegovina call themselves "the Heart Shaped Land" and Denmark's logo is a red heart with a white cross. Colombia and Dubai have red hearts in their logo. Everybody else uses sunshine.

Continue reading Trade Mocked

Trade Mocked originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 10 Apr 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingcountriesPRpublic relationsPublicRelationstourismtrademarksSat, 10 Apr 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a trip to Dominica by showing off your adventurous spirit]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/17/win-a-trip-to-dominica-by-showing-off-your-adventurous-spirit/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/17/win-a-trip-to-dominica-by-showing-off-your-adventurous-spirit/http://www.gadling.com/2010/03/17/win-a-trip-to-dominica-by-showing-off-your-adventurous-spirit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As far as travel contests go, they don't come much easier than this one. Wend Magazine, Adventure Dominica, and Ahnu footwear are joining forces to send a lucky winner, and their guest, off on a tropical escape to the island paradise of Dominica. They're offering up airfare for two from the U.S. or Canada and five days/four nights stay at the Calibishie Cove Hotel, one of the top eco-lodges on the island, not to mention all the sun and surf you can take in while you're there.

To win, you simply need to submit a photo that best captures your adventurous spirit. The photo can be from practically any place or any activity, but it needs to show off your adventurous side in the best way possible. For instance, perhaps you'll need to dig up that photo of you hiking the Inca Trail or kayaking the Grand Canyon. What ever it is, find it, and send it to contest@adventuretodominica.com and if your image is selected, you'll be on your way to a vacation you won't soon forget.

Like the rest of the Caribbean, Dominica has plenty of beaches and sun to go around. But it is also an excellent destination for adventure travelers looking for a tropical location to explore. The island has miles of hiking trails that wind through lush rainforests teeming with wildlife and over a thousand species of flowering plants, while hundreds of beautiful rivers flow by, fed by the more than 300 inches of annual rainfall there. And when you grow tired of exploring above the surface, simply head below for something completely different. Dominica is a great diving and snorkeling destination too, with plenty of marine life and colorful coral reefs to explore.

So, dig up that photo and send it off today. It just might earn you that warm weather escape you've been dreaming of, and although spring is officially just around the corner, it never hurts to have a little fun in the tropical sun.

Update: Adventure Dominica has a posting on this contest too. You can find it by clicking here. As mentioned, the rules are simple and straight forward.

Continue reading Win a trip to Dominica by showing off your adventurous spirit

Win a trip to Dominica by showing off your adventurous spirit originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelcontestcontestshikingphotographphotographsscuba divingScubaDivingWed, 17 Mar 2010 08:38:00 EST<![CDATA[The 11 coolest flags in the world?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/08/the-11-coolest-flags-in-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/08/the-11-coolest-flags-in-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/08/the-11-coolest-flags-in-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

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

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

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ak-47bear with axeBearWithAxebeheadedbenin empireBeninEmpireflagsgreenlistnational emblemNationalEmblemsymbolsyaroslavl oblastYaroslavlOblastThu, 08 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Where on Earth? Week 46 - Roseau, Dominica]]>http://www.gadling.com/2008/02/22/where-on-earth-week-46-roseau-dominica/http://www.gadling.com/2008/02/22/where-on-earth-week-46-roseau-dominica/http://www.gadling.com/2008/02/22/where-on-earth-week-46-roseau-dominica/#commentsFiled under: ,



Not Central America, but close. This picture was actually taken just outside of the center of Roseau, the capital of Dominica, when I was visiting the Caribbean island during Christmas 2006; a holiday season full of steel drums, reggae music and fried plantain. Much less developed for tourists, Dominica is one of the Caribbean islands that doesn't boast flocks of foreigners lounging on sandy beaches, cocktails in hand. Instead it's referred to as the Nature Island and high on the list of hikers, scuba divers and other outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.

Where on Earth? Week 46 - Roseau, Dominica originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>RoseauFri, 22 Feb 2008 09:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Carnival celebrations around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2008/01/28/carnival-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2008/01/28/carnival-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2008/01/28/carnival-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Vibrant music, zesty dancing, bright colors and more fun and absurdity than a lot of people can handle. Carnival anyone? For the pre-Lent partying season our minds tend to automatically think of New Orleans and Rio, but the event is in fact celebrated around the world. A few places to spice up a dreary winter before Lent kicks in:

Dominica: A small and happy island almost hidden in the Lesser Antilles, Dominica is not to be forgotten during Carnival season. Here, the local Creole expression, More Fete Less Twaka (more party less talk), rings true. Soca competitions, a Carnival beer garden, some street jams and a Miss Dominica Pageant. What more could you want from an early winter Caribbean vacation?

Munich: The Munich Carnival, or "Fasching," is often referred to as Germany's "Fifth Season," when the local population truly lets loose. People crowd the streets, pretzel vendors run abound and beer runs freely. Think Oktoberfest but with confetti, masquerade balls and elaborate parades.

Venice: This year's theme, Sensation: 6 sensations for 6 neighborhoods, says it all. Venice has been enjoying its celebrations for centuries, and through the years it has evolved into a well-known time for wild festivities. The main feature: masks. If you don't have your own, not to worry, there are plenty of mask makers throughout the city ready to take your order.

Rijeka: Croatia's biggest carnival was once one of the most important in Europe. Around 150 carnival groups from a dozen different countries attract over 120,000 visitors. One of the days is designated as children's carnival, attracting 6,000 little ones. And don't forget to check out the Zvoncari groups: men dressed up in animal skins, complete with horned masks, frantically dancing to the eerie sound of clanging bells.

Goa: India might not be the first place you would expect to find Carnival, but introduced by the Portuguese who ruled Goa for over 500 years, the celebration is still enjoyed today. Although primarily a Christian event, the Goa Carnival has absorbed many Hindu traditions, making it an extravagant event a true sight for the eyes.


Carnival celebrations around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CarnivalMardiGras2008Mon, 28 Jan 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Independence days and elephants]]>http://www.gadling.com/2007/11/30/independence-days-and-elephants/http://www.gadling.com/2007/11/30/independence-days-and-elephants/http://www.gadling.com/2007/11/30/independence-days-and-elephants/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

I've whipped out my International Calendar to see what might be left to tell about November before it slips away from Eastern Standard Time in a few hours. What I see is a whole lot of independence days and a slew of other politically geared occasions.

  • Nov. 1--Antigua-Barbuda gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1980.
  • Nov. 3--Dominica gained independence from the UK in 1978. Panama gained Independence from Colombia in 1903 and Micronesia gained independence from the U.S. in 1980.
  • Nov. 9--Cambodia gained independence from France in 1953.
  • Nov. 11--Poland gained independence in 1918; Angola gained independence from Portugal in 1975.
  • Nov. 18--Latvia gained independence from Russia in 1918; Morocco from France in 1956.
  • Nov. 25--Suriname gained independence
  • Nov. 28--Mauritania gained Independence from France in 1968 and Albania gained Independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912, Panama gained independence from Spain in 1821 and East Timor gained independence from Portugal in 1975.
  • Nov. 30-Barbados gained independence from the U.K. in 1966

Other than these, Tonga has had Constitution Day (Nov. 4); Russia, Revolution Day (Nov. 7); Brazil, Republic Day (Nov. 15); and Vanuatu has had National Unity Day, (Nov. 29)

My favorite happening of the bunch of events that occurred this month, though, is the Surin Elephant Round-Up in Thailand.

Independence days and elephants originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatre at Sea Cruise: Top-Notch Actors and the Amazon]]>http://www.gadling.com/2007/09/11/theatre-at-sea-cruise-top-notch-actors-and-the-amazon/http://www.gadling.com/2007/09/11/theatre-at-sea-cruise-top-notch-actors-and-the-amazon/http://www.gadling.com/2007/09/11/theatre-at-sea-cruise-top-notch-actors-and-the-amazon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lately, I've been thinking I ought to go on a cruise. Geek Cruises perked up my interest. So did finding out I could get credit to renew teaching certification on another. Here's the cruise of cruises--possibly the right combination of reasons to take in some luxury, see the world and have a wonderful time being entertained by the best.

Regent Cruises has an intriguing option for taking a vacation and maximizing a holiday experience. Theatre at Sea Cruise (a venture between The Theatre Guild Broadway and the cruise line) involves traveling 1,000 miles of the Amazon in Brazil (plus trips to Barbados, Puerto Rico and Dominica) with stars like Edward Asner, Patricia Neal and Eli Wallah who put on plays at night--one at the 1890s Manus Opera House. From what I read, the cruise on the Regent Seven Seas Mariner (February 21-March 4) sounds like the line between audience and actors are blurred. The actors don't disappear between the times the curtain goes up and down. Instead, the after the play parties are for everyone. The thing I also like about this cruise is that Brazil is an integral part of the experience. Along the way, the tour takes in ports beyond just the usual beach and shopping fare--there are two stops at indigenous villages, although I do wonder what the people in the villages think when a bunch of tourists traveling by luxury liner descend on them.

If you are looking for luxury and creative energy that crackles, this might be it. When I opened the email from The New York Times Ticket Watch expecting to find discount tickets to a show on Broadway, I sure felt energized finding this offering instead. If someone can swing this, I say, go for it. If you can't make this one, how about the Around the World Tour on the Queen Victoria in 2009?

Theatre at Sea Cruise: Top-Notch Actors and the Amazon originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Broadway performancesBroadwayPerformancesluxury travelLuxuryTravelpuerto ricoPuertoRicoRegent Cruise LineRegentCruiseLineTheatre Guild BroadwayTheatreGuildBroadwayTue, 11 Sep 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hand Laundry Around the World]]>http://www.gadling.com/2007/05/22/hand-laundry-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2007/05/22/hand-laundry-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2007/05/22/hand-laundry-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

When searching for an image for my post on travel washing machines, I saw several shots of people doing laundry the old fashioned way--by hand. Here is one of them.

This shot, posted on Flickr, was taken by abrinksy in Udaipur, India. There is something about laundry that makes people get an urge to whip out their cameras. Here are other photos that caught my eye...

Continue reading Hand Laundry Around the World

Hand Laundry Around the World originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 22 May 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flickr shots of laundryFlickrShotsOfLaundrypeople doing laundryPeopleDoingLaundryTue, 22 May 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Contest Time: Win a Trip to Dominica]]>http://www.gadling.com/2006/12/03/contest-time-win-a-trip-to-dominica/http://www.gadling.com/2006/12/03/contest-time-win-a-trip-to-dominica/http://www.gadling.com/2006/12/03/contest-time-win-a-trip-to-dominica/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

contest
It is time for another one of my random travel contest discoveries found out there on the web. I was lured to the new and very visually pleasing Dominica tourism site from an advertisement found on Nat Geo and further stumbled upon this great opportunity to win a trip to what they call, "The Nature Island." If you have not heard, American Airlines/American Eagle has added flights to Dominica, so the winner should expect to be shipped into paradise on American, but not without answering a few simple questions. Now for the all Carib guru's out there the contest quiz might be easy breezy like a summer wind drifting through the lush green leaves of the palm, but those just wanting a little Atlantic Ocean fun and sun with only a small amount of knowledge on Dominica will probably need to surf around the site for the answers. Questions include: What is the capital of Dominica? How many waterfalls can be found there and which type of whales frequent the waters? There are 10 questions in all, the contest is open until March 31, 2007 and winners are notified by April 30, 2007. So if your gut feeling is telling you you'll be relaxing on the beach with a cocktail in hand this summer this could be your ticket in. Be sure to read the official contest rules.

Contest Time: Win a Trip to Dominica originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 03 Dec 2006 21:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestsSun, 03 Dec 2006 21:38:00 EST<![CDATA[La Robe Creole Restaurant]]>http://www.gadling.com/2005/12/26/la-robe-creole-restaurant/http://www.gadling.com/2005/12/26/la-robe-creole-restaurant/http://www.gadling.com/2005/12/26/la-robe-creole-restaurant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Dominica's La Robe Creole Restaurant is more than a website dedicated to what seems to be one of the country's best family owned restaurants. (Both Washington Post and Fordors give great reviews.) A trip to the website will not only give you a visual taste of what your palate has in store, but provides comprehensive background information on the country in a glossary full of terms. Visitors planning a trip to the Caribbean island can also use the La Robe Forum to find out cultural and creole language information. Want to experience Carnival in Dominica? Fine information about the event here too.Play La Robe's Game Quiz and score points while trip planning.

Returning to the more important topic of food, they offer basic burgers to island fav's like chicken roti and callaloo soup. Those looking for light selections can have a small feast on delicious fish au gratin, accras, and shrimp in coconut flakes. For the picky eater, take a look at the food photo gallery, which may not cure your being picky overnight, but could help you decide what to order. Everything looks incredibly tempting, especially the fruit. Mmm.

La Robe Creole Restaurant originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 26 Dec 2005 22:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 26 Dec 2005 22:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Watching the Whales]]>http://www.gadling.com/2005/06/24/watching-the-whales/http://www.gadling.com/2005/06/24/watching-the-whales/http://www.gadling.com/2005/06/24/watching-the-whales/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

whale

Not too long ago I posted a bit about my experience seeing a bunch of porpoises while I was out fishing. It was totally cool. They surrounded the boat and I reached out and patted their silvery backs.

In California whale watching is big. that's because there are so many of these meandering cetaceans in the off the coast in the Pacific. Having grown up in California, I've seen humpbacks around the waters since I was a kid. And when you see them, it's often the case that they are being tailed by whale-watching boats. Whale watching is pretty fun, if there are whales to see. And especially if the whale seem intent on entertaining. Here is an article about the best places to do whale watching. Of course California is there, but so are the Azores, Dominica and Orcas Island up in Washington. This last one is also a favorite of mine because the whales you see are often killer whales, and if you've ever been out kayaking and seen an Orca, well, there's nothing quite like it.

Watching the Whales originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 24 Jun 2005 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 24 Jun 2005 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Eco Fun for Divers and Land Lubbers Alike]]>http://www.gadling.com/2005/04/12/eco-fun-for-divers-and-land-lubbers-alike/http://www.gadling.com/2005/04/12/eco-fun-for-divers-and-land-lubbers-alike/http://www.gadling.com/2005/04/12/eco-fun-for-divers-and-land-lubbers-alike/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Eco Wonderlands

MSNBC has a great story up right now from Sport Diver magazine about 10 amazing "eco wonderlands" which will excite divers and land lubbers alike. Their top choices include the waters and wilds of Dominica, Tobago, Belize, the "Maya Riviera" and good old American Maui. There's also the usual suggestions on "must dos" and interesting lodging.

Eco Fun for Divers and Land Lubbers Alike originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 12 Apr 2005 21:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Tue, 12 Apr 2005 21:48:00 EST<![CDATA[The Beau Rive]]>http://www.gadling.com/2005/04/10/the-beau-rive/http://www.gadling.com/2005/04/10/the-beau-rive/http://www.gadling.com/2005/04/10/the-beau-rive/#commentsFiled under: , ,

"Escape for Real," is the motto of this lovely six guest room hotel located on Dominica's east Beau Rivecoast. In short, the Beau Rive will offer accommodation for the senses. Listen to the birds, the sea, the forest and let your eyes feast upon the island's beauty with ocean views from every room. When touring the Beau Rive's web site at first you may want turn your nose up at the cost and what it has to offer, but it makes tons of practical sense. Don't go looking for mini-bars, cable TV, or room service at all hours of the night, because in striving to be different the Beau Rive does without them. Instead you can walk through the citrus and spice gardens or on the forest trail to the Richmond River. Think of it as paying for your own piece of paradise that hasn't been tourist invaded and real down-to-earth hospitality from the staff.

Before you go, check out some interesting facts about the island provided by Dominica's Tourism site found here.

The Beau Rive originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 10 Apr 2005 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sun, 10 Apr 2005 15:59:00 EST