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[Photo Of The Day: Indonesian Dancers]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/photo-of-the-day-indonesian-dancers/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/photo-of-the-day-indonesian-dancers/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/photo-of-the-day-indonesian-dancers/#commentsFiled under: , ,



There's a wonderful sense of pattern and repetition in today's photo by Flickr user don.wright. Shot at a dance ceremony in Banda Aceh, the largest city on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, the photo's subjects each carry a unique expression that adds personality and charm. Some break into a bashful smile, some are expressionless, some - like the woman in the center of the frame - look deep in thought. I wonder what they're all thinking?

Taken any great photos during your own travels? Why not add them to our Gadling group on Flickr? We might just pick one of yours as our Photo of the Day.

Photo Of The Day: Indonesian Dancers originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banda acehBandaAcehdanceislammuslimsilhouettesumatraveilSun, 20 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[8 Languages You've Never Heard Of (And Who Actually Speaks Them)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/18/8-languages-youve-never-heard-of-and-who-actually-speaks-them/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/18/8-languages-youve-never-heard-of-and-who-actually-speaks-them/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/18/8-languages-youve-never-heard-of-and-who-actually-speaks-them/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



As anyone who follows my articles here on Gadling knows by now, I don't travel to relax poolside at a resort or sip a fancy drink with coconut oil. I travel because this world is a fascinating place.

While everyone has their own travel philosophy and reasons for wanting to get away, I know that for many travelers, one of the greatest joys of travel is experiencing other cultures and peeking into corners of the world, which are far removed from our own. This could range from immersing yourself in a culture with a different religion, cuisine, or something as simple as driving on the other side of the road.

More often than not, however, one of the largest indicators that we "aren't in Kansas anymore" is traveling to a place with a language that is different from our own. With linguists estimating there are over 7,000 languages spread across the globe, there is little to no chance of any traveler ever having the opportunity to properly experience them all. Furthermore, as Gadling blogger Kraig Becker points out, there are still uncontacted tribes in parts of the Amazon where we don't even know what language they speak yet.

Though situations like these are encouraging, the sad reality is that the majority of indigenous languages is critically endangered and will most likely not survive the next generation. According to the United Nations and UNESCO, not only does an indigenous language go extinct every two weeks, but up to 90% of the world's languages are likely to disappear in the next century if current trends continue.

While the Economist reports that recent advances in technology may actually be able to aid in the rescue and rebirth of languages, the fact of the matter remains that thousands of global languages are dying at a terrifying rate.

So, in a nod to the fascinating beauty of global tongues, here is a rundown of eight languages that you've probably never heard of, and are lucky if you ever hear.

Continue reading 8 Languages You've Never Heard Of (And Who Actually Speaks Them)

8 Languages You've Never Heard Of (And Who Actually Speaks Them) originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 18 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Anal languageAnalLanguageAnus languageAnusLanguageKet languageKet peopleKet SiberiaKetLanguageKetPeopleKetSiberialanguages youve never heard ofLanguagesYouveNeverHeardOfMelpa languageMelpaLanguageobscure languagesObscureLanguagesrare languagesRareLanguagesSamiSilbo GomeroSilboGomeroTaushiro languageTaushiroLanguageweird languagesWeirdLanguagesXhosaYoron languageYoronjimaYoronLanguageFri, 18 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Extraordinary Islands To Visit On Your Next Vacation]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/10/10-extraordinary-islands-to-visit-on-your-next-vacation/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/10/10-extraordinary-islands-to-visit-on-your-next-vacation/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/10/10-extraordinary-islands-to-visit-on-your-next-vacation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

vacation islands

Summer is the time of island vacations. It is time to put as much distance between you and the real world as possible. It is time to stand outside of your everyday life and to see how it all looks from a paradise perspective. Here is a collection of islands for escape - places to recharge, gain perspective and explore. From an island in the land of the gods to a tropical Amsterdam at the edge of an ocean trench, each of these ten destinations provides something extraordinary.

Gallery: 10 Islands To Visit Next

SantoriniSantoriniSantoriniGili TGili T

Continue reading 10 Extraordinary Islands To Visit On Your Next Vacation

10 Extraordinary Islands To Visit On Your Next Vacation originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 10 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaborneoCorsicafrancegalapagosGiliIslandsGR 20Gr20greeceindonesiaislandislandsmalaysiamaldivespalauperhentianperhentian islandsPerhentianIslandssantoriniscuba divingScubaDivingSt. CroixSt.CroixtasmaniaUS Virgin IslandsusviUsVirginIslandsvacationvacation islandsVacationIslandsvirgin islandsVirginIslandsThu, 10 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unusual aphrodisiacs from Asian countries]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/03/unusual-aphrodisiacs-from-asian-countries/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/03/unusual-aphrodisiacs-from-asian-countries/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/03/unusual-aphrodisiacs-from-asian-countries/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

balut Wondering how to get you or your partner more in the mood for sex? Instead of opting for expensive pills or unnatural remedies, why not learn from the Asian culture and try one of these libido-boosting aphrodisiacs? From dangerously poisonous fish to fertilized duck embryo or snake's blood, it is clear some people really will try anything to have good sex. While these odd ingestants may be useful for people in Asia, I'm thinking that others may want to stick to increasing their libido the old-fashioned way: getting drunk and watching porn.

Balut

Balut is a common finger food in Southeast Asia and is literally an almost-developed duck embryo that is boiled alive and eaten in the shell. If you want to try this delicacy for yourself, head over to the Philippines, where it is most common, or Vietnam, Laos, or Cambodia. It's a very popular food to enjoy at bars while drinking a beer, which makes me wonder if it's the Balut making people horny or the alcohol.

Continue reading Unusual aphrodisiacs from Asian countries

Unusual aphrodisiacs from Asian countries originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aphrodisiacsasiacambodiadog meatDogMeatindonesiajapanpenisphallicphotossexsexythailandtiger penis soupTigerPenisSoupunusual traditionsUnusualTraditionsvietnamweird foodsWeirdFoodsSat, 03 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tranquil travel hits Bali as the entire island falls silent during Nyepi]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/02/tranquil-travel-hits-bali-as-the-entire-island-falls-silent-duri/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/02/tranquil-travel-hits-bali-as-the-entire-island-falls-silent-duri/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/02/tranquil-travel-hits-bali-as-the-entire-island-falls-silent-duri/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

nyepi While many cultures around the world celebrate their New Year with fireworks, parades, and loud parties, the island of Bali in Indonesia takes a different approach. In fact, travelers looking to enjoy some peace and quiet in a beautiful setting should consider taking a trip to the island on March 23 to take part in the Balinese New Year, or Nyepi, "Day of Silence".

During Nyepi, the entire island of Bali falls silent in an effort to cleanse and purify. In fact, shops aren't allowed to open, vehicles and machinery may not be used, work is forbidden, electricity must remain off, and even the Bali airport closes down.

Just because the island falls silent, however, does not mean you shouldn't visit. In fact, an array of cultural activities and package deals are offered in honor of Nyepi, making it the perfect time to visit Bali.

bali AYANA Resort and Spa

For those who would like to experience Nyepi for themselves, the luxury, cliff-top AYANA Resort and Spa allows guests to stay on the property and continue to use the restaurants, spa, and other facilities during the event as long as noise is kept to a minimum. They also take part in the festivities that lead up to the day of silence, including creating a giant paper mache figure called ogoh-ogoh (shown above). On the night before Nyepi, locals from all over the island come out to show off their own ogoh-ogohs, which tend to resemble skeletons and monsters, while live bands play in the background. It is believed that those taking part in this cultural ceremony confront their own negativity and purge it from their souls.

Rates start at $239 per night plus taxes and gratuities. Email reservation@ayanaresort.com or click here to book.

Continue reading Tranquil travel hits Bali as the entire island falls silent during Nyepi

Tranquil travel hits Bali as the entire island falls silent during Nyepi originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baliceremoniesceremonycultureday of silenceDayOfSilenceeventshotelsindonesianew years celebrationsNewYearsCelebrationsnyepiphotostraditiontraditionstravel dealsTravelDealsFri, 02 Mar 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the day: Lombok landscape]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/24/photo-of-the-day-lombok-landscape/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/24/photo-of-the-day-lombok-landscape/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/24/photo-of-the-day-lombok-landscape/#commentsFiled under: , ,

lombok landscape

Sometimes you want to look at a pristine landscape completely devoid of humans. Other times, as in this wonderfully verdant Lombok landscape snapped by Flickr user Bernard-SD, the inclusion of a human being is an engaging detail. This blue-shirted fellow, after all, allows viewers to imagine themselves within the scene itself.

And there are certainly worse prospects than imagining oneself wandering Indonesia's Lombok island. Situated east of Bali--still Indonesia's biggest tourism draw--Lombok boasts rural charms and beautiful beaches both.

Upload your photos of landscapes (peopled by solitary humans or otherwise) to the Flickr Gadling Group Pool. We pick our favorites from the pool to be future Photos of the Day.

Photo of the day: Lombok landscape originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>indonesialomboklombok landscapeLombokLandscapephoto of the dayPhotoOfTheDayFri, 24 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video of the day: Bali, Indonesia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/video-of-the-day-bali-indonesia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/video-of-the-day-bali-indonesia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/video-of-the-day-bali-indonesia/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BALI, JE T'AIME! from artisland on Vimeo.

Now seems as good a time as any other to take a trip to Bali. To sprawl out on the sands and relax in the waters under the sun amid such beautiful culture certainly seems like a dream as the intensity and work load that come with every new year continues to pile. Luckily for all of us not currently embarking on a voyage to Bali, Andrew Melikov put this gorgeous 'Postcard from Bali' type video up on Vimeo. Complete with images of local artisans, droplets of water on blades of grass, crashing waterfalls, gentles breezes making the vegetation dance, children climbing trees and flying kites, this video effectively captures a vacation destination on film beyond the resorts wherein so many tourists find themselves confined.

Continue reading Video of the day: Bali, Indonesia

Video of the day: Bali, Indonesia originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BaliBali moviebali vacationBali videoBaliMovieBaliVacationBaliVideoIndonesiamovie of BaliMovieOfBalitraveling to Balitraveling to indonesiaTravelingToBaliTravelingToIndonesiavacationing in baliVacationingInBalivideo of BaliVideoOfBalivisit BaliVisitBalivisiting BaliVisitingBaliwhere to go in BaliWhereToGoInBaliWed, 15 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring the diverse scenery of East Java, Indonesia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/22/exploring-the-diverse-scenery-of-east-java-indonesia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/22/exploring-the-diverse-scenery-of-east-java-indonesia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/22/exploring-the-diverse-scenery-of-east-java-indonesia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

indonesia The area of East Java in Indonesia is home to beautiful and diverse landscapes that include beaches, volcanoes, mountains, plantations, lakes, natural reserves, and a lot more. There are also many natural, cultural, and adventure activities to partake in, like scuba diving, hiking volcanoes, surfing, witnessing traditional ceremonies, hearing folklore stories, learning the cultivation process of tea, and photographing wild animals like zebras and cheetahs.

To get to East Java you can fly into its capital, Surabaya, via their international airport, Juanda Airport (SUB).

If you'd like to explore East Java from the comfort of your computer chair, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: The diverse scenery of East Java, Indonesia

Karanggongso BeachBromo MountainAndung Biru Tea PlantationNglirip WaterfallMandara Giri Temple

Exploring the diverse scenery of East Java, Indonesia originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbeachesbest beaches in indonesiaBestBeachesInIndonesiadivingeast javaEastJavahikingindonesialandscapenational parksNationalParksnatural reservesNaturalReservesphotossacred sitesSacredSitesscuba divingScubaDivingsnorkelingspiritual sitesSpiritualSitessurfingtempleswildlife in indonesiaWildlifeInIndonesiaSun, 22 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The diverse diving destination you probably haven't heard of: Raja Ampat]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/the-diverse-diving-destination-you-probably-havent-heard-of-ra/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/the-diverse-diving-destination-you-probably-havent-heard-of-ra/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/the-diverse-diving-destination-you-probably-havent-heard-of-ra/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

raja ampatLocated off the northwest point of the Bird's Head Peninsula on the island of New Guinea in Indonesia is Raja Ampat, an archipelago full of diverse habitats. The name literally means "Four Kings" and is a great destination for adventure travelers who want to get off-the-beaten path and explore a location with more fish, coral, and invertebrate species than anywhere on the planet.

To experience Raja Ampat, travelers can catch a connecting flight from Jakarta or Bali to Sorong. While Sorong is not actually in Raja Ampat, most Raja Ampat resorts pick up their guests here and transport them to the facilities. If you plan on scuba diving, liveaboard dive boats pick up guests in Sorong and motor them to the dive areas. While Raja Ampat is not typically a tourist destination, it should be as there is a lot do in terms of exploring the waters and marine life, from kayaking and snorkeling to diving and beach combing.

I got the chance to speak with Burt Jones, who has spent the last three years in Raja Ampat doing photography diving tours for Secret Sea Visions and consulting for Conservation International. He explained to me how, while Raja Ampat is full of life and beauty, it is also in need of help, especially because not a lot of people have heard of it.

"If we, as a people, can save any place on the planet, Raja should be high on the priority list," he explains. "It has the highest marine biodiversity of any tropical reef system on the planet, but fewer than 8,000 people visit Raja Ampat yearly. Part of our job [at CI] is to promote tourism within the region so that it will be considered as a viable local income resource. Most Raja Ampat villages profit very little from their land's natural resources: timber, fishing or mineral wealth. And, exploiting these resources damages the environment while sustainable marine tourism promotes environmental protection and directly benefits local people through jobs. In our books, we explain local customs and encourage traveling divers to stop by receptive villages where casual contact can enrich both hosts and visitors."

For more information on diving in Raja Ampat or taking a tour with Secret Sea Visions, click here. And, to get a better idea of just how beautiful Raja Ampat really is, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Raja Ampat

Raja AmpatRaja AmpatRaja AmpatRaja AmpatRaja Ampat

The diverse diving destination you probably haven't heard of: Raja Ampat originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelecotourismindonesiamarine lifeMarineLiferaja ampatRajaAmpatscuba divingScubaDivingsnorkelingTue, 17 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[6 art classes to try in Bali]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/19/6-art-classes-to-try-in-bali/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/19/6-art-classes-to-try-in-bali/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/19/6-art-classes-to-try-in-bali/#commentsFiled under: , ,

art classes bali

There's no better place in Indonesia to take art classes than in Bali, an island known around the world for its artistic tradition. Indeed, it seems that everywhere you look, you find traces of man-made beauty. From the ornamentation on the temples to the etchings on the sidewalks to the attention and care given to daily offerings set out on the street, art oozes from every crack.

When you're surrounded by so much beauty, it's natural that you'll want to flex your own creative muscles. Thankfully, Bali has an array of art classes intended to give visitors an introduction to traditional craft.

1. Batik making
The Indonesian art of batik involves a complex process of wax application and painting on fabric. Museum Puri Lukisan in Ubud holds private courses for Rp. 450,000 (about $50). Create your own work from scratch, or choose from a number of traditional templates. All materials are included, as well as a delicious Balinese lunch and entrance to the museum, which houses a collection of contemporary art.

Continue reading 6 art classes to try in Bali

6 art classes to try in Bali originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart classesart classes baliArtClassesArtClassesBaliasiabalibali center for artistic creativityBaliCenterForArtisticCreativitybatikceramicscreative classesCreativeClassesindonesiaislandjessica maratiJessicaMaratilife model drawingLifeModelDrawingmuseum puri lakisanMuseumPuriLakisanpaintingpranatos art galleryPranatosArtGallerysari api ceramics studioSariApiCeramicsStudiosilversmithingsketchingstudio perakStudioPeraktextilesthreads of lifeThreadsOfLifeMon, 19 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[5 best floating markets around Asia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/08/5-best-floating-markets-around-asia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/08/5-best-floating-markets-around-asia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/08/5-best-floating-markets-around-asia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

floating market When traveling, it's always fun to head over to the local open-air markets and gain some insight into the culture and their products. To make the browsing experience even better, some markets forgo street stands and set up shop right in the water. To see this for yourself, checkout this list of the five best floating markets around Asia.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Ratchaburi, Thailand

While there are myriad floating markets in Thailand, one in particular stands out for the rest. The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located about 60 miles southwest of Bangkok and is best experienced early in the morning before the crowds arrive and the heat gets unbearable. The market is very colorful and lively as merchants paddle down the canal in their canoes selling fresh fruit and vegetables which are usually grown directly by the seller. The market also has some history behind it, as Damnoenssaduak was the name of the canal made by military soldiers and local people during King Rama IV's reign. Back then there weren't rivers and canals, making transportation quite limited. This was a concern for the king in terms of the country's economic growth, and the result is the canal that is now home to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.

Continue reading 5 best floating markets around Asia

5 best floating markets around Asia originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>&esrc=s&source=newssearch&cd=3&ved=0ceeqqqiwag&url=http://www.gaair+asiaairasiaamsterdam flower marketAmsterdamFlowerMarketbest+markets+in+asiabestmarketsinasiabudget travelBudgetTraveldamnoensaduakdialog+of+banjarmasins+floating+marketdialogofbanjarmasinsfloatingmarketfloating marketsFloatingMarketsthailandunique marketsUniqueMarketsThu, 08 Dec 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Holiday gifts for food (and drink)-loving travelers]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/16/holiday-gifts-for-food-and-drink-loving-travelers/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/16/holiday-gifts-for-food-and-drink-loving-travelers/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/16/holiday-gifts-for-food-and-drink-loving-travelers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

gifts for food loversHoliday shopping is easy if the people on your list like to eat and/or imbibe. If they're into travel--be it armchair or the real deal--the options are endless This year, think beyond the predictable bottle of wine or pricey "artisan" cookies and give reusable, portable, eco-friendly gifts or small-batch edibles that are the taste equivalent of a trip abroad.

As for where to get these items, look at farmers and flea markets, street fairs, specialty food shops, wineries/distilleries, and boutiques. One of my favorite spots to shop: foreign supermarkets.

For the green at heart

An inflatable wine bag is ideal for wine and spirit-loving travelers. They're multi-use and work equally well for olive oil, vinegar, or other fluid specialty products.

A logo tote bag (preferably made from recycled materials) from a specialty food shop, winery, etc. is great for practical recipients. A co-worker recently brought me a signature navy blue number from Neal's Yard Dairy, a famous cheese shop in London. In two months, it's traveled to South America and across the U.S., doing time as a souvenir satchel, laundry and grocery bag, and all-purpose carry-on. When I don't need it, i just roll it up and stash it in my duffel bag or day pack. Love it.

Gift a wine key (opener) salad tongs or bowl, chopsticks, or other kitchen utensils made from local, sustainable materials such as wood, antler, bone, bamboo, or shell. Do a quick online search or ask (I've said it before, I'll say it again: phrasebooks) about the origins of said object. If you have any qualms about the eco-aspect, don't buy it and let the shopkeeper know why.

[Photo credit: Flickr user noramunro]

Continue reading Holiday gifts for food (and drink)-loving travelers

Holiday gifts for food (and drink)-loving travelers originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antique mallsAntiqueMallsantiquesBarack ObamaBarackObamabeerbreweriescarbon footprintCarbonFootprintchristmas presentsChristmasPresentscocktailscookingcooking ingredientsCookingIngredientscookwareculinary travelCulinaryTravelcustomsdistilleriesecofriendly giftsEcofriendlyGiftsendangered speciesEndangeredSpeciesfarmers marketsFarmersMarketsflea marketsFleaMarketsFood co-opsfood giftsFoodCo-opsFoodGiftsgift ideasGiftIdeasgreen giftsGreenGiftsholiday foodholiday giftsHolidayFoodHolidayGiftshoneyjamkitchen gadgetsKitchenGadgetskitchenwarelocal foodLocalFoodlocavoresNew Mexican foodNew MexicoNewMexicanFoodNewMexicopicklespreservessouvenirsspiritsstreet fairsStreetFairssupermarketssustainable agricultureSustainableAgriculturetravel souvenirsTravelSouvenirsvintage storesVintageStoreswinewineriesWed, 16 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Seven Wonders of Natural World revealed amidst controversy]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/15/new-seven-wonders-of-natural-world-revealed-amidst-controversy/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/15/new-seven-wonders-of-natural-world-revealed-amidst-controversy/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/15/new-seven-wonders-of-natural-world-revealed-amidst-controversy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Amazon is one of the new seven wonders of the natural worldAfter four years of hype and fanfare, the new seven wonders of the natural world were unveiled last Friday, honoring some of the most amazing landscapes on the planet. But as the competition drew to a close, dark clouds of controversy formed, casting a shadow over the entire affair.

The selection process for the new seven wonders began back in 2007, when 440 natural wonders, from 220 countries, were first submitted for consideration. Over the course of several rounds of voting and judging, that number was eventually reduced to 28 finalist. The seven winners were selected from that list following months of online voting.

According to the preliminary results, the new seven wonders include the following: the Amazon Rainforest (South America); Halong Bay (Vietnam); Iguazu Falls (Argentina/Brazil), Jeju Island (South Korea); Komodo National Park (Indonesia); Puerto Princesa Subterranean River (Philippines) and Table Mountain (South Africa).

The organizers behind the new seven wonders are quick to note that this list is for the provisional winners, as they are currently conducting a recount of the votes to ensure that the correct wonders have been named. The results are now being independently verified and they expect to confirm the winners in early 2012.

On the eve of the announcement of those winners, disturbing stories began to emerge about how organizers were attempting to collect millions of dollars from the nations that were home to the finalists. When the search for the new wonders first began more than four years ago, countries were required to pay a $199 entry fee, but as the selection process narrowed the candidates, some countries were asked to pay large sums of cash to aid in a world-wide marketing campaign. The Indonesian government claimed, for example, that the organizers wanted $10 million to cover licensing fees and an additional $47 million to host the official closing ceremony. Earlier, the Maldives withdrew from the competition altogether when costs to participate spiraled upwards towards $500,000.

Continue reading New Seven Wonders of Natural World revealed amidst controversy

New Seven Wonders of Natural World revealed amidst controversy originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelamazonAmazon RainforestAmazonRainforesthalong bayHalongBayiguazu fallsIguazuFallsJeju IslandJejuIslandkomodoPuerto PrincesaPuertoPrincesaseven wonders of the natural worldSevenWondersOfTheNaturalWorldTable MountainTableMountainTue, 15 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Traveler Q & A: Pavia Rosati]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/02/traveler-q-and-a-pavia-rosati/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/02/traveler-q-and-a-pavia-rosati/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/02/traveler-q-and-a-pavia-rosati/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

pavia rosatiPavia Rosati is the founder of Fathom, a recently debuted travel website. Fathom is smart and beautifully designed. It's full of exciting short briefs about various destinations across the globe.

Rosati, as you'll see from her answers below, is an experienced editor and an avid traveler. Her enthusiasm for Fathom's subject matter is palpable and infectious. We love Fathom and can't wait to see how it's going to develop.

Q: Good day, Pavia Rosati, and welcome. How would you describe your occupation?

A: I am the founder and CEO of Fathom, a new travel website. It's my job to help connect you to places and experiences you didn't know you were going to love.

Q: Tell us about Fathom.

A: Fathom cuts through the clutter of the online travel space with stories and destination guides that are as practical as they are inspiring. People typically go to a travel website for one of two reasons: They know they're going to London, and they need to know where to stay and what to do. Or they think, "I have two weeks off...I like nature...Where should I go?" Fathom addresses both needs through two main sections: Guides and Postcards. Guides have quick information about the basics: hotels, sites, restaurants, and itineraries. Postcards are inspiring travel stories organized around the passion points of travel with a "I Travel for the ..." theme: I Travel for the Food, I Travel for the Thrill, I Travel for the Kids. We aren't motivated by what's expensive or what's trendy. We're interested in what's special and what's awesome. Sometimes that's a three-Michelin star lunch at Le Meurice; sometimes it's a five-euro falafel at L'As du Fallafel.

Q: What are you trying to do with Fathom that hasn't been done by other travel sites?

A: I wanted to create the one-stop travel website that I could never find. You know how the best travel guide is the email you get from a friend who lives there, detailing what you need to do and know? That's the spirit that motivates us. I used to spend 80 hours researching dozens of sites to boil my findings down to an essential nugget of information. Fathom aims to deliver that nugget. I don't want to wade through a list of 200 shops in Buenos Aires; I want 20 that are amazing. I want to know what locals know. I want pre-edited links to the best articles, websites, and online resources. Perhaps most importantly, Fathom recommendations are not driven by a mega travel agency's vast and impersonal database; our recommendations are personal and special.

Q: How do you anticipate Fathom developing? For example, will the city guides grow in number?

A: Absolutely. It's a big world, and we want to get everywhere. Postcards are updated continually, and we will launch several new guides every month. Reader feedback will be critical: We've had a lot of requests for Amsterdam since launching, so look for that soon. We want more Postcards from Fathom readers, a community we call the travel-proud. This fall, we'll launch Boutique, with our favorite travel products; Traveler Profiles, based on the popular Fathom Questionnaires; and My Itineraries, so readers can save the places they want to go.

Q: How did your decade at Daily Candy prepare you for this endeavor?

A: First and foremost, it's where I met my partner, Jeralyn Gerba, Fathom's editorial director. We had one priority at DailyCandy: We had to delight our readers every day. To achieve this, we had to be trustworthy, we had to recommend quality places, and we had to deliver information readers wanted in a way they wanted it. And it helped if we had a great time doing it. These are excellent editorial priorities. By the way, before DailyCandy, I spent four years running the Entertainment Channel at AOL. That taught me a thing or two about building and serving a big audience.

Continue reading Traveler Q & A: Pavia Rosati

Traveler Q & A: Pavia Rosati originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>africaargentinaasiacambodiacanadacaribbeanChilechinacolombiaeuropefathomfranceHong KongHongKongindonesiaitalyJapanLaoslondonNetherlandsnew yorkNewYorkNorth AmericaNorthAmericaparispavia rosatiPaviaRosatiportugalShanghaisouth americaSouthAmericaSri LankaSriLankasyriatokyounited kingdomunited statesUnitedKingdomUnitedStatesvietnamZambiaTue, 02 Aug 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A video of Bali's elegant details]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/28/a-video-of-balis-elegant-details/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/28/a-video-of-balis-elegant-details/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/28/a-video-of-balis-elegant-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Bali is like sand in a fist. It is tough to get a handle on. I always come back from the island dumbfounded with my inability to properly explain what makes it so special and extraordinary. The pervasive culture and feel is difficult to communicate with language; its character escapes the calculated classification of words. This video is a collection of the elegant details that make Bali such an enchanted place. I think Stephan Kot does an excellent job showcasing this beautiful "Island of the Gods" - far better than I could ever do with words.

Continue reading A video of Bali's elegant details

A video of Bali's elegant details originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiabalibalineseindonesiavideoThu, 28 Apr 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 types of travel theft (and how to be safe)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/11/top-10-ways-travelers-get-robbed-travel-theft-safety/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/11/top-10-ways-travelers-get-robbed-travel-theft-safety/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/11/top-10-ways-travelers-get-robbed-travel-theft-safety/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

travel theft

In many large cities of the world, thieves hunt travelers from the shadows. They watch you take pictures at monuments, eat tapas at an outdoor cafe, and if you are unlucky, they will follow your steps with excited eyes as you fall into one of their traps. A few weeks ago while visiting Quito, thieves dumped a bucket of crap on me from a rooftop and then jumped me for my camera. It was horrible.

Fear-mongering aside, travelers are chosen as targets because they are not completely in tune to their surroundings. Maybe you are jet lagged, or you just ate a dangerous meal that has left you weak with intestinal anxiety, or you are lost in an uncomfortable part of Paris - these are all circumstances where you are in a vulnerable state and therefore a target of thieves. Like hyenas hunting for weakened game, thieves seek out confused tourists and map clenchers with wayward eyes.

These crooked opportunists have many breeds: child gangs in Italy looking for sincere mid-westerners, Vietnamese on scooters scoping for a wallet in an extended hand, and fake European police officers searching for rubes to shake down. While your trip will likely pass without incident, it is ideal to be prepared. If you know what to look for, then you can watch for danger signs and situations to avoid. Being a safe traveler is being a smart traveler. Here are ten common hustles to watch out for.

Continue reading Top 10 types of travel theft (and how to be safe)

Top 10 types of travel theft (and how to be safe) originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europerobberysouth americaSouthAmericathiefthievestravel insurancetravel safetytravel thefttravelers robbedTravelersRobbedTravelInsuranceTravelSafetyTravelTheftways travelers get robbedWaysTravelersGetRobbedMon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dreaming of Bali - A guide to Indonesian food]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/05/dreaming-of-bali-a-guide-to-indonesian-food/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/05/dreaming-of-bali-a-guide-to-indonesian-food/http://www.gadling.com/2011/04/05/dreaming-of-bali-a-guide-to-indonesian-food/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Pizza lovers, did you know Indonesians adore Pizza Hut? True, your typical Indonesian pie probably has more crispy fish pieces, shrimp and corn on it than you're used to back home. And you probably won't find avocado milkshakes as an option at the soda fountain back in Grand Rapids. But the Indonesians in Bali are lovers of pizza much like you and I, dear reader, and unashamedly so.

At this point, more experienced travelers are probably scratching their heads. Who travels to Indonesia and writes about American fast food?? But the truth be known, this odd love for all things pizza illustrates a surprising fact: Indonesians are cultural chameleons when it comes to eating. This immense island nation is a place criss-crossed by trade winds of diverse culinary origin, bringing together influences and ingredients from places as far-flung as China, The Netherlands, India and even Mexico.

Whether you're just visiting Bali or making a larger exploration of the Indonesian archipelago, expect to be surprised by Indonesia's spicy, exotic, and altogether unexpected blend of delicious eats. A taste of the tropics, and a taste of home at the same time. Ready to dig in? Keep reading below to begin your exploration of Indonesian (and Balinese) cuisine.

Continue reading Dreaming of Bali - A guide to Indonesian food

Dreaming of Bali - A guide to Indonesian food originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anthony bourdainAnthonyBourdainayam gorengAyamGorengbabi gulingBabiGulingbalibandacoconutcoffeecurrydreamingofbalidurianes apokates campurEsApokatEsCampurfried chickenFriedChickenjavakangkungnasi campurnasi gorengNasiCampurNasiGorengno reservationsNoReservationsnutmegold country buffetOldCountryBuffetpadangpizza hutPizzaHutrendangricesambalseafoodsumatrateaTue, 05 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Are you ready for a once in a lifetime cycling holiday?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/25/are-you-ready-for-a-once-in-a-lifetime-cycling-holiday/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/25/are-you-ready-for-a-once-in-a-lifetime-cycling-holiday/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/25/are-you-ready-for-a-once-in-a-lifetime-cycling-holiday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Enjoy a once in a lifetime cycling holiday in 2012Pedalers Pub and Grille may sound like a place where you'd stop for some grub after a long day riding your bike, but in actually, its an adventure travel company that specializes in cycling holidays to some of the best destinations on the planet. To celebrate their 25th anniversary, the company has just announced a new tour that will take riders on an eight month, six continent odyssey that will truly be a once in a lifetime experience.

The trip will begin with a "get acquainted" ride through Vermont, which will give everyone who signs up for the tour a chance to get to know one another before the real excitement begins. That shakedown cruise will also give travelers an opportunity to work out the bugs of the trip, such as learning what to carry with them on their daily rides, how to pack and unpack the bikes, and how to endure the rigors of the open road.

From there, the route will take cyclists across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, South America, and Central America, before eventually returning to the United States. In all, they will ride will through nearly 30 countries, including Ireland, France, Italy, Egypt, Kenya, India, Nepal, New Zealand, Peru, Costa Rica, and more. They'll average anywhere form 45-60 miles (80-100km) per day on mostly paved roads with the occasional dirt track as well.

The Once In A Lifetime Tour won't get underway until June of 2012, which gives you plenty of time to save your pennies. With a price tag of $95,000 the trip doesn't come cheap, but that price does include all accommodations, most meals, all transportation costs, guides, tours, and even a custom built bike.

If you happen to have $100k and 8 months of free time coming your way, you may want to consider joining this trip. If nothing else, it sure seems like it'll live up to its name and truly be a once in a lifetime experience.

[Photo credit: Pedalers Pub and Grille]

Are you ready for a once in a lifetime cycling holiday? originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure cyclingadventure traveladventure-travelAdventureCyclingAdventureTravelbikebikescyclingcycling toursCyclingToursOnce in a Lifetimeonce in a lifetime cycling holidayonce in a lifetime tripsOnceInALifetimeOnceInALifetimeCyclingHolidayOnceInALifetimeTripspedalers pub and grillePedalersPubAndGrilleFri, 25 Mar 2011 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dreaming of Bali - Learning to surf]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/17/dreaming-of-bali-learning-to-surf/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/17/dreaming-of-bali-learning-to-surf/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/17/dreaming-of-bali-learning-to-surf/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There was only one wetsuit top remaining for my first surfing lesson, and it was pink. Not to mention I spent most of my first day on a surfboard coughing up murky brown saltwater from my lungs. Kelly Slater I was not. But despite the humiliations involved in learning to surf for the first time, there are rewards for the patient. For instance the moment you catch your first wave, you will be struck by a feeling of indescribable euphoria and bliss - particularly if you're catching that wave in Bali, one of the world's great surfing hotspots.

Hawaii and California might be more famous with American surfers, but mention the word Bali to anyone with a board and a suntan, and their eyes will widen like saucers, a smile spreading across their face. Bali, it seems, is one of the world's greatest places to surf: a paradise of consistent waves, warm water and some of the world's most legendary surf spots.

But trying to get the hang of surfing, particularly during a short visit to this intriguing island, can be difficult. Which surfing school should you choose? Where are the best places to surf? Will you be able to get up after just a single lesson? The process can feel downright intimidating.

Thankfully, we're here to help. Keep reading below to find out how you can learn to ride the waves in Bali.

Continue reading Dreaming of Bali - Learning to surf

Dreaming of Bali - Learning to surf originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure-travelbalibeachcowabungadreamingofbalihang loosehang tenHangLooseHangTenjimbarankutaobb surf adventuresObbSurfAdventuresprosurfrip curlRipCurlsurfboardswellulu watuUluWatuwannasurfwavesThu, 17 Mar 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dreaming of Bali - The sounds of Indonesia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/10/dreaming-of-bali-the-sounds-of-indonesia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/10/dreaming-of-bali-the-sounds-of-indonesia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/03/10/dreaming-of-bali-the-sounds-of-indonesia/#commentsFiled under: ,



Welcome back to Gadling's newest series, Dreaming of Bali. Visiting the exotic Indonesian island of Bali is truly a feast for the senses. First time visitors and expats alike frequently remark on this island's rich tapestry of exotic stimuli: the brilliant orange glow of a sunset as it slides gently into the sea; the wafting scent of kerosene and crushed chilis at a roadside food stall; the soft vibration of a gong as it's struck in a temple. These are sensory experiences that bury themselves in your subconscious, sticking in your mind long after your return from a journey - they are ultimately the impressions that help to crystallize our understanding of our travels.

Continue reading Dreaming of Bali - The sounds of Indonesia

Dreaming of Bali - The sounds of Indonesia originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobalibukitcall to prayerCallToPrayerdreamingofbaliearfrogsgamelanhearislamjavajimbaranjogjakartalisteningmosquenaturenoisesensessounds of indonesiasoundscapeSoundsOfIndonesiastorytellingtravel sensesTravelSenseswavesyogyakartaThu, 10 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST