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[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 free things to do in Barcelona, Spain]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/04/10-free-things-to-do-in-barcelona-spain/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/04/10-free-things-to-do-in-barcelona-spain/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/04/10-free-things-to-do-in-barcelona-spain/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

barcelona Barcelona, Spain, is full of fun things to do and interesting sites to explore. Luckily, the city features many experiences for the budget traveler with free museums, walking tours, beaches, parks, museums, dance shows, and more. Use this list to help you save money while still experiencing the best the city has to offer.

Walk down Las Ramblas

Las Ramblas is the most famous street in Barcelona, and often the first stop on many tourists' to-do list. Not only is the street lined with restaurants, bars, cafes, theaters, and shops; it's also home to various street entertainers, performance art, and colorful markets, making the street both fun and aesthetically pleasing. I love seeing all of the people dressed in ostentatious costumes trying to act like still sculptures (Note: Some of them look really real. I actually leaned on one not realizing it was a person!). Las Ramblas is also a bit historical, as the famous native painter Joan Miró, who died in 1983, helped to create part of the street. You can see one of his mosaic creations on the ground of the main center walkway.

Continue reading 10 free things to do in Barcelona, Spain

10 free things to do in Barcelona, Spain originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>antonio gaudiAntonioGaudiarchitectureart galleriesArtGalleriesbarcelonabeaches in barcelonaBeachesInBarcelonabudget travelBudgetTraveldancefree flamenco shows in barcelonafree tapasfree tapas in barcelonafree things to do in barcelonaFreeFlamencoShowsInBarcelonaFreeTapasFreeTapasInBarcelonaFreeThingsToDoInBarcelonamuseumsspaintagoSat, 04 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The ultimate guide to Carnival in Rio: parties and parades]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/03/the-ultimate-guide-to-carnival-in-rio-parties-and-parades/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/03/the-ultimate-guide-to-carnival-in-rio-parties-and-parades/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/03/the-ultimate-guide-to-carnival-in-rio-parties-and-parades/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

carnival rio de janeiro

What's Carnival in Rio de Janeiro without its lively parties and parades? Now that planning, packing, and logistics are taken care of, it's time to think about the important stuff: your social calendar. In this second installment of the ultimate guide to Carnival in Rio, we'll walk you through some of the main events.

Continue reading The ultimate guide to Carnival in Rio: parties and parades

The ultimate guide to Carnival in Rio: parties and parades originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandablocobrazilcarnivalcopacabanacopacabana palace hotelCopacabanaPalaceHotelfat tuesdayFatTuesdaymardi grasMardiGrasparaderiorio de janeirorio scalaRioDeJaneiroRioScalasambasambadromesambodromosouth americaSouthAmericaultimate guide to carnivalUltimateGuideToCarnivalFri, 03 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: From steel town to scenic city]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/pittsburgh-pennsylvania-from-steel-town-to-scenic-city/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/pittsburgh-pennsylvania-from-steel-town-to-scenic-city/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/pittsburgh-pennsylvania-from-steel-town-to-scenic-city/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

pittsburghWhile many people still visualize Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to be an old steel city, the hilly town has certainly changed a lot in the last 30-40 years. My first impressions when arriving were that the lit up hillsides, public art, modern architecture, colorful bridges, scenic rivers, diverse restaurants and lively club scene made Pittsburgh seem a lot more eclectic and trendy than industrial. If you're visiting Pittsburgh, here is a guide to help you navigate the best the city has to offer based on your preferences.

For a mix of history and food

Visit the Strip District. The area was home to many industrial innovations (it's where Andrew Carnegie began doing business in the iron and steel industry) as well as a once booming produce industry, a legacy that can still be tasted through ethnic food shops, cafes, markets, and restaurants. Use Penn Avenue as your main focal point, and veer off as necessary. Make sure to stop in the Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. for traditional Italian groceries and natural alternatives to processed cheeses, sauces, soups, and meats, as well as Mon Aimee Chocolat for unique varieties of organic and artisanal chocolate. For those who love vino, Dreadnought Wines offers glasses and accessories as well as specialty wines and educational classes, like "Cooking with Wine" and "High Brows and Low Brows- Can You Taste the Difference?". A stop in Penzeys Spices is a delight for the nose as visitors can walk around and sniff the many herbs and seasonings out on display, as well as ask questions about the products and get free recipes. Want to educate yourself on the city's history and culture? A visit to Senator John Heinz History Center allows you to explore Pittsburgh's past and present through six floors of exhibits on local sports, companies, heroes, innovations, artifacts, and more. My favorite parts were sitting in an old-fashioned trolley and walking through a life-sized replication of a traditional early-1900's home.

For a list of businesses in the Strip District, click here. To keep up to date with events in the area, click here.

Continue reading Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: From steel town to scenic city

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: From steel town to scenic city originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artarts and cultureArtsAndCulturebest cities in the united statesBestCitiesInTheUnitedStatesethnic restaurantsEthnicRestaurantsfunky coffee shopsFunkyCoffeeShopsnightlifepennsylvaniapittsburghpittsburgh penquinspittsburgh steelersPittsburghPenquinsPittsburghSteelerssportsvegetarianTue, 31 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The ultimate guide to Carnival in Rio: planning, packing and logistics]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/the-ultimate-guide-to-carnival-in-rio-planning-packing-and-log/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/the-ultimate-guide-to-carnival-in-rio-planning-packing-and-log/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/the-ultimate-guide-to-carnival-in-rio-planning-packing-and-log/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Attending Carnival in Rio de Janeiro tops many a bucket list, and for good reason. Not only is Rio Carnaval one of the world's sexiest festivals, it's also an important cultural event for the people of Brazil. Last year, more than 4.9 million people participated in the week-long festival of parades, parties, and carousing in the streets, and the number is expected to increase yet again this year.

In short, Carnival in Rio is an event of epic proportions, and trip preparation can be as much of an adventure as the festival itself. The hotels are overpriced, the tickets are sold out, and it's tough to tell the real advice from the travel agents trying to sell you on a package. This guide, compiled from my research and paired with tips from Brazilian friends, will hopefully provide a starting point for planning your own Carnival adventure. If you think anything's missing, please share your knowledge in the comments!

Continue reading The ultimate guide to Carnival in Rio: planning, packing and logistics

The ultimate guide to Carnival in Rio: planning, packing and logistics originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airbnbbandasbloccosbrazilcarnavalcarnivalcostumesfat tuesdayFatTuesdayfestivalfestivalsGaleão International AirportGaleãoInternationalAirportjessica maratiJessicaMaratimardi grasMardiGrasnightlifepartyriorio de janeiroRioDeJaneirosambadromesamodromosouth americaSouthAmericaultimate guide to carnivalUltimateGuideToCarnivalvisaTue, 31 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Athens nightlife: desperate pensioners on the hustle]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/athens-nightlife-desperate-pensioners-on-the-hustle/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/athens-nightlife-desperate-pensioners-on-the-hustle/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/31/athens-nightlife-desperate-pensioners-on-the-hustle/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Athens nightlifeGiorgis looked like he didn't have long to live.

Aged about 70, he was a tall man who appeared shorter because he stooped so much that his head hung almost below his shoulders. He was thin and walked with a limp that showed he suffered from sciatica. His clothes--yellow sweater, gray trousers, and brown dress shoes--were old and faded but immaculately clean. His gray hair was neatly combed over watery blue eyes that scrunched up when he coughed, which he did often.

"It's this cold weather," he told me. "People my age always cough like this when it gets cold."

Giorgis was in denial. I know plenty of old people who don't cough like that. There was death in that cough.

I met him on my first night in Athens while standing in front of the Parliament building watching the Evzone Guards. A few other tourists gazed at the guards' famous uniforms of a white skirt, white hose, and shoes with big pompoms. Their costumes may look odd but there was no mistaking that these were real soldiers. I'm six feet tall and every one of them towered over me. They looked in the prime of health.

Giorgis did not.

"I'm an oil engineer," he said. "I work in Saudi Arabia for a big company."

Looking at his clothes I doubted that. I acted interested, though, and answered the usual questions about where I was from and what I was going to see in Greece. He made some hints about knowing some good spots for Athens nightlife. I doubted that too. After a time I was thinking of saying goodbye and moving on. Giorgis must have seen something in my body language.

"What, you don't like talking to Greek people? We don't have to talk."

Ah, The Line! I've heard it from La Paz to Damascus. It's a guilt trip. You go wherever they want just to prove you don't hate their people. Well, as usual I wasn't fooled but went along anyway. I'm too curious for my own good. Falling for The Line has never gotten me into serious trouble and has led to some interesting stories. Giorgis didn't look dangerous. I wouldn't follow him down any dark alleys, but other than that I'd let him take the lead.

"We'll go to a bar," he announced. "I know a good one."

He limped off at a remarkable pace. I hurried to keep up as he coughed his way down the street. I figured him for an alcoholic. He sure looked in a hurry to get to that bar.

Continue reading Athens nightlife: desperate pensioners on the hustle

Athens nightlife: desperate pensioners on the hustle originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AthensAthens nightlifeAthens tourismAthens travelAthensNightlifeAthensTourismAthensTraveleconomic crisisEconomicCrisisGreeceGreece nightlifeGreece tourismGreece travelGreeceNightlifeGreeceTourismGreeceTravelGreekGreek economyGreek pensionersGreek pensionsGreekEconomyGreekPensionersGreekPensionsnightlifepastinperilpensionpensionersprostitutesprostitutes in Athensprostitutes in GreeceProstitutesInAthensProstitutesInGreeceprostitutionrecessionTue, 31 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Utah town hopes to benefit from celestial sightseeing]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/29/utah-town-hopes-to-benefit-from-celestial-sightseeing/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/29/utah-town-hopes-to-benefit-from-celestial-sightseeing/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/29/utah-town-hopes-to-benefit-from-celestial-sightseeing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Thought to be one of the best places on earth to view the annual solar eclipse on May 20, the small town of Kanarraville, Utah is hoping to draw a considerable number of "astrotourists" this spring. Defined as those willing to travel to study astronomy or observe the sky, astrotourists are common in the region, where dark nighttime skies make stellar stargazing spots.

"I heard of the concept two years ago," Bonnie Oldroyd, a representative from the Cedar City-Brian Head Tourism Bureau told The Daily Spectrum. "I thought, 'What the heck is astro-tourism?' I did some research and found out we have astro-tourism."

It's estimated that around 5,000 of these astrotourists will descent upon the town in order to see the moon pass between the sun and the earth, leaving just a ring of light from the sun. Considering Kanarraville has a population of merely 300 people, the uptick in tourism is a pretty big deal. Public safety workers will deal with traffic and parking around popular viewing areas, and the tourism bureau is working with nearby hotels to provide special "eclipse packages" for the date. The rest of Southern Utah--besides the areas affected by lights from Las Vegas--might see increased tourism as well.

Would you--or have you--ever planned a trip around stargazing? Hopefully the clouds don't roll in and ruin it all.

[Photo by makelessnoise / Flickr]

Utah town hopes to benefit from celestial sightseeing originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 29 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astrotourismeclipseFlickrKanarravilleSci/Techutahwhy we travelWhyWeTravelSun, 29 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Austin landmarks in Austin High]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/28/10-austin-landmarks-in-austin-high/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/28/10-austin-landmarks-in-austin-high/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/28/10-austin-landmarks-in-austin-high/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Austin landmarks in Austin High, the movie, aren't difficult to find. The city's tried, true, and loved spots make special appearances in scenes throughout the recently released, for lack of a better genre, stoner comedy. It's a comedy (and it really is funny, I think) depicting a community in support of the legalization of marijuana; a popular cause in Austin. I caught the film during the Austin Film Festival back in the fall. One of the things I liked most about the movie was that, for me, it really felt like Austin. The landmarks representing Austin in the film are good ones. So good, in fact, that I decided to dedicate this post to giving you the run-down of some of my favorite landmarks in the film. And so, here it goes, my favorite 10 Austin landmarks featured in Austin High.

Continue reading 10 Austin landmarks in Austin High

10 Austin landmarks in Austin High originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 Austin landmarks10AustinLandmarksAustin HighAustin High the movieAustin landmarksAustin landmarks in Austin HighAustinHighAustinHighTheMovieAustinLandmarksAustinLandmarksInAustinHighlandmarks in austinLandmarksInAustinnew comediesNewComediesstoner comedystoner filmstoner movieStonerComedyStonerFilmStonerMovieSat, 28 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video of the day: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque projections]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/27/video-of-the-day-sheikh-zayed-grand-mosque-projections/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/27/video-of-the-day-sheikh-zayed-grand-mosque-projections/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/27/video-of-the-day-sheikh-zayed-grand-mosque-projections/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Projections from Obscura Digital on Vimeo.

Ready to see a beautiful video that will brighten your afternoon? Then check out this gorgeous video featuring the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Projectors, 44 to count, came together form a combined brightness of 840,000 lumens. The images from these projectors covered a 600 foot wide and 351 foot high surface on the building. Mostly floral patterns were projected alongside filigree-type designs, creating a stunning imagery any visitors undoubtedly enjoyed. Were you lucky enough to see this display first-hand? Please tell us about it in the comments if so.

Continue reading Video of the day: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque projections

Video of the day: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque projections originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand mosqueGrandMosquemosquemosque artmosque imagesmosque videoMosqueArtMosqueImagesMosqueVideoprojections on mosqueProjectionsOnMosqueprojectors on mosqueProjectorsOnMosquesheikh zayed grand mosqueSheikhZayedGrandMosqueunited arabunited arab emiratesunited arab mosqueUnitedArabUnitedArabEmiratesUnitedArabMosqueFri, 27 Jan 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Boombox Party in NYC Saturday]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/20/boombox-party-in-nyc-saturday/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/20/boombox-party-in-nyc-saturday/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/20/boombox-party-in-nyc-saturday/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Want to go to a Boombox Party in NYC this Saturday night? Of course you do. I do. I don't know if a last-minute flight from Austin to NYC will be worth the Boombox Party experience for me or not, but something tells me it just may be. So, suffice it to say that if you'll already be in New York this weekend because you're visiting or living there, you should embrace this new kind of impromptu party. What is a Boombox Party? It's a portable and battery-powered party, basically. Started by two guys out of Vancouver, the parties invite thousands of people to carry boomboxes around and dance. A DJ carrying an FM radio transmitter in a backpack has the boombox carriers tune into his master FM broadcast. The result is a mobile, synchronized sound system. The party can, and probably will, go anywhere and everywhere. Subways, city blocks, parks--who knows. The location for Saturday night is TBA, but it will start at 9pm. The theme is Strictly Business, meaning, of course, you must wear business attire.

Follow the party-throwers on Facebook and find out tonight where the NYC Boombox Party will be held. And if you hear the party outside your window in NYC and you're annoyed, just remember: you're in the city that never sleeps.

Continue reading Boombox Party in NYC Saturday

Boombox Party in NYC Saturday originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boom boxBoomBoxboombox partiesboombox partyboombox party in nycBoomboxPartiesBoomboxPartyBoomboxPartyInNycgoing out in nycGoingOutInNycnyc partiesnyc partyNycPartiesNycPartyparties in nycPartiesInNycparty in nycPartyInNycwhat to do in new yorkwhat to do in nycWhatToDoInNewYorkWhatToDoInNycFri, 20 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Secret supper prohibition-era restaurant pops up in Vancouver, Canada]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/18/secret-supper-prohibition-era-restaurant-pops-up-in-vancouver-c/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/18/secret-supper-prohibition-era-restaurant-pops-up-in-vancouver-c/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/18/secret-supper-prohibition-era-restaurant-pops-up-in-vancouver-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

popup restaurant For three evenings only, Swallow Tail Canada will once again be hosting their Secret Supper Soiree in Vancouver, British Columbia, in Canada. While guests can expect a classy 1930's-inspired underground bar, murder mysteries, transportation in a timeless double decker bus, and tastings of wines that are not available on the market, they will not know the location of the speakeasy until the night of the event.

The creators of the prohibition-era pop-up event are telling guests to meet at Pacific Central Station and from there will be picked up and taken backwards in time. To make the event more realistic, participants are also being asked to wear their fanciest speakeasy attire. Once at the secret location, a five-course tasting menu by Chef Andrea Carlson of Bishops as well as one Pims Cup and three wine tastings from local wineries will be offered.

Says Chef, Sommelier, and Owner of Swallow Tail Canada, Robin Kort, "I used to be a swing dancer, so I'm really enamored by the 1930s and that whole speakeasy era. It embodies what Swallow Tail is, too. It's underground, exclusive, and secret. I like that vibe."

Dates for the event are January 21, January 28, and February 4 at 4PM. Click here to purchase tickets.

Secret supper prohibition-era restaurant pops up in Vancouver, Canada originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>events in canadaEventsInCanadapop uppopupprohibitionsecret supperSecretSupperspeakeasyswallow tail canadaswallow tail secret supperSwallowTailCanadaSwallowTailSecretSupperunique eventsUniqueEventsWed, 18 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Will Scam for Food in Burma]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/will-scam-for-food-in-burma/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/will-scam-for-food-in-burma/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/17/will-scam-for-food-in-burma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Will Scam for Food in BurmaIt was my first night in Yangon, the southeast Asian metropolis formerly known as Rangoon, and I was standing in a dank, dark back street arguing with a 16-year-old boy over his fee for oral sex. Well, sort of. He had propositioned me. And while I wasn't interested, I was appalled when he told me how little he'd do it for. So I began lecturing him that he should charge more. Not that I know the going international rate for such things. I swear. It just seemed low for doing such an intimate thing to a complete stranger. Why I didn't talk him out of the nightly practice completely is beyond me. Then again, my mind at that moment was in full-on negotiating mode.

It all began when I had arrived in Myanmar two hours earlier. As I was checking in to my hotel, I was told the price of the room and pulled out my wad of $20 bills (there are no ATMs in Myanmar, so one must arrive with a bulk of cash). I put three bills down on the counter and the team at reception began scrutinizing the notes like avid baseball card collectors inspecting a Honus Wagner card. They discussed among each other, spitting out a slew of Burmese and then shaking their heads from side to side. The oldest member of the money-scrutinizing triumvirate stepped forward and informed me my money was no good. "See this," he said, pointing to the tiniest of creases in the crisp $20 bill. "No good." I protested, saying that anywhere else in the world these were perfectly valid twenty dollar bills. "You don't understand," he said. "This is Myanmar."

I have to confess: I had heard the warnings that they only exchange perfectly crisp, blemish-free American dollars here and it wasn't until the day I was leaving--having already withdrawn $500 in cash from my bank the day before--that I realized I should take it all back to the bank and get brand new bills. The problem, though, was that by the time I got around to it, the banks were closed. I had no choice but to get on my flight that night, hoping that the guidebooks and friends who had been here were grossly exaggerating.

They weren't.

Continue reading Will Scam for Food in Burma

Will Scam for Food in Burma originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featurefeaturesTue, 17 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Upscale dining made affordable during New York's Winter Restaurant Week 2012]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/16/upscale-dining-made-affordable-during-new-yorks-winter-restaura/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/16/upscale-dining-made-affordable-during-new-yorks-winter-restaura/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/16/upscale-dining-made-affordable-during-new-yorks-winter-restaura/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

new york restaurant week It's that time of year again; when top restaurants from all over the city offer affordable prix-fixe menus for Restaurant Week. This winter, however, diners have 20 days to take advantage of the special.

On weekdays from January 16-February 10, patrons will be able to order a 3-course lunch for $24.07 or a 3-course dinner for $35 from some of their favorite restaurants. While this may sound too good to be true, it isn't, with eateries of all different cuisine styles and star ratings participating.

No matter what type of food you're craving, there is a restaurant for you. Here are some of the more upscale venues to take advantage of during the event:

Upscale dining made affordable during New York's Winter Restaurant Week 2012 originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best restaurants in new yorkBestRestaurantsInNewYorkbudget travelBudgetTravelnew yorkNewYorknyc restaurant weekNycRestaurantWeekrestaurant weekRestaurantWeekwhere to eat in new yorkWhereToEatInNewYorkMon, 16 Jan 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 sexy festivals from around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/14/10-sexy-festivals-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/14/10-sexy-festivals-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/14/10-sexy-festivals-from-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

burlesqueWhile sexy can mean different things to different people, sometimes there is just no disputing. From naked bodies covered in paint to scantily clad burlesque dancers to artistic bondage shows, there is a festival out there that will fulfill your idea of what sexy is.

New Orleans Burlesque Festival
New Orleans, Louisiana

The New Orleans Burlesque Festival takes place in New Orleans every year during mid-September. For three days, guests are treated to naughty striptease numbers, spicy parties, and, of course, tons of sexy burlesque dance shows. And you don't only get to watch these hot acts, you get to learn them too, as the festival hosts an array of workshops, like the Stockings and Garter Workshop which will teach you how to sensually remove your hosiery, and Bumps and Grinds, where you will learn sultry, stage-worthy dance moves.

Continue reading 10 sexy festivals from around the world

10 sexy festivals from around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burlesque dancersBurlesqueDancerscarnivaldance festivalsDanceFestivalserotic festivalsEroticFestivalsmajor world eventsMajorWorldEventspenis festivalPenisFestivalphallus festivalPhallusFestivalriorio carnivalRioCarnivalsexsex festivalsSexFestivalssexiest festivals around the worldSexiestFestivalsAroundTheWorldsexy festivalsSexyFestivalsunique festivalsUniqueFestivalsSat, 14 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Getting 'Sweet Revenge' in New York's West Village]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/07/getting-sweet-revenge-in-new-yorks-west-village/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/07/getting-sweet-revenge-in-new-yorks-west-village/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/07/getting-sweet-revenge-in-new-yorks-west-village/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

sweet revenge Located in the West Village of New York, at 62 Carmine Street, is a sweet shop that puts a new spin on wine pairing.

Walking into Sweet Revenge, you will become instantly immersed in the warmth of freshly baked desserts, the cozy ambiance of the small room, smiling servers, and intimate lighting set by tiny Christmas bulbs. And, you won't see anybody with a sweet Bellini or a full-bodied Malbec.

Instead of pairing wines with traditional cheeses and meal courses, Sweet Revenge features an extensive list of gourmet, internationally-inspired cupcakes, each offering a wine and beer suggestion next to it. Four signature options are always available, including:
  • Sweet Revenge- Peanut butter cake with a ganache center and peanut butter fudge frosting paired with Juan Benegas Malbec, Argentina, or Weihenstephaner Hefe Weiss, Germany
  • Pure- Mexican vanilla cake with Mexican vanilla buttercream paired with Principato Pinot Noir, Italy, or Kwak, Belgium
  • Dirty- Valrhona chocolate cake with dark chocolate truffle paired with Pinotage, South Africa, or Kopparberg Pear Cider, Sweden
  • Crimson & Cream- Raspberry red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting paired with a Raspberry Bellini or Belhaven, Scotland

Continue reading Getting 'Sweet Revenge' in New York's West Village

Getting 'Sweet Revenge' in New York's West Village originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 07 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beerbeer and cupcake pairingBeerAndCupcakePairingbest restaurants in new yorkBestRestaurantsInNewYorkcupcake and wine pairingCupcakeAndWinePairingdessert and wine pairingDessertAndWinePairingfood and wine pairingFoodAndWinePairinginternational restaurantsInternationalRestaurantsnew yorknew york cityNewYorkNewYorkCitysweet revengeSweetRevengewest villageWestVillagewineSat, 07 Jan 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Portland nights time-lapse]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/04/video-portland-nights-time-lapse/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/04/video-portland-nights-time-lapse/http://www.gadling.com/2012/01/04/video-portland-nights-time-lapse/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



I love Portland and I love time-lapse videos and so, suffice it to say, I really love this Portland nights time-lapse video. This was the first time-lapse video made by Lance Page. Aside from the footage at the beginning of the video, this video was shot entirely at night. Page says on his blog that this was an excellent way for him to learn the relationship between shutter-speed and time-lapse. When he describes making the video in a blog post, he informs readers and viewers that he even had a few run-ins with the police throughout the filming--all through which he was, I'd say, clearly triumphant. I've never made a time-lapse video nor have I studied film seriously. But I have been to Portland. I have been to Portland at night even! And this time-lapse truly captures the look and feel of what I love so much about Portland, especially Portland nights.

Continue reading Video: Portland nights time-lapse

Video: Portland nights time-lapse originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lance pageLancePageoregonportlandportland at nightPortland nightsportland nights time-lapseportland oregonportland time lapseportland time-lapseportland timelapsePortlandAtNightPortlandNightsPortlandNightsTime-lapsePortlandOregonPortlandTime-lapsePortlandTimelapsetime lapsetime-lapseTimeLapseWed, 04 Jan 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Boulder's mixology scene the place for holiday spirit(s)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/21/boulders-mixology-scene-the-place-for-holiday-spirit-s/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/21/boulders-mixology-scene-the-place-for-holiday-spirit-s/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/21/boulders-mixology-scene-the-place-for-holiday-spirit-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

mixologyBy now, we're well into the Third Wave of the mixology craze. Cosmopolitans begat new types of martinis begat the revival of pre-Prohibition-era cocktails (which begat bartenders donning suspenders or dapper suit vests).

The revival of classic cocktails and trending toward intelligent, seasonally-driven mixology made with craft-distilled spirits has been driven by America's mania for all things artisanal and/or local.

Ignore the pretentious b.s. that muddies the waters of the food and wine et al. industries. You'll find that most consumers, chefs, farmers, and food artisans are merely interested in the provenance of certain ingredients, and the traditional methods used to produce or prepare products like cheese, charcuterie, boutique wine, craft beer, and distilled spirits. This is a good thing. And, I might add, who doesn't appreciate a great meal or well-made beverage?

That, in a nutshell, is why Boulder, Colorado has been making headlines as one of America's most progressive dining destinations. As a former resident, (I've said it before, I'll say it again: I move. A lot.), I can attest that Boulder is on the cutting edge of conscious eating. But where it really shines, in my opinion, is its mixology scene.

Bonus: Boulder's best drinking spots are located on or just one block off of Pearl Street, which runs through the heart of downtown and the pedestrian mall. This time of year, Pearl is aglow with fairy lights adorning the trees, and (if you're lucky) snowfall: it's a wonderful place to spend the holidays. If you like to imbibe, try a glass (or three) of good cheer at any of the restaurant/bars following the jump.

Continue reading Boulder's mixology scene the place for holiday spirit(s)

Boulder's mixology scene the place for holiday spirit(s) originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barsbeerBoulderBoulder barsBoulder restaurantsBoulderBarsBoulderRestaurantsChristmascocktailsColoradoColorado restaurantsColoradoRestaurantscommunal diningCommunalDiningcraft beercraft cocktailsCraftBeerCraftCocktailsdistilleriesfarmers marketsFarmersMarketsfine dining restaurantsFineDiningRestaurantsgastropubsholiday entertainingHolidayEntertaininglocal foodLocalFoodrestaurantsseasonal drinksseasonal foodSeasonalDrinksSeasonalFoodwinewine pairingwine tastingWinePairingWineTastingwinter sportsWinterSportsWed, 21 Dec 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[10 free things to do in Sydney, Australia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/20/10-free-things-to-do-in-sydney-australia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/20/10-free-things-to-do-in-sydney-australia/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/20/10-free-things-to-do-in-sydney-australia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

blue mountains While Sydney, Australia, is often thought to be one of the most expensive cities in the world, it is not impossible to travel there on a budget. Planning out some free activities for your trip can help curb your spending but still allow you to experience the city. To help with the trip preparation, here is a list of 10 free things to do in Sydney, Australia.

Hike the Blue Mountains

The area of the Blue Mountains is located in the central areas of the Sydney Basin and contains myriad hiking trails for people of all athletic abilities. You can do short strolls, intense all-day hikes, or longer treks that involve camping in the wild. Diverse flora and fauna inhabit the area, and deep valleys, jagged cliff faces, dark caves, streaming rivers, and dense rainforests help to diversify the scenery. There are also unique rock formations, like the Three Sisters, Orphan Rock, and Kings Tableland. So where did the Blue Mountains get its name? The area is covered in Eucalyptus Trees, which give off a mist of Eucalyptus Oil that appears as a blue haze under the sunlight. When you look from a distance, the mountains seem to be enveloped in blue smoke.

Click here for detailed directions on how to get to the Blue Mountains by car, train, and coach bus.

Continue reading 10 free things to do in Sydney, Australia

10 free things to do in Sydney, Australia originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art in australiaArtInAustraliaaustraliabudget travelBudgetTravelculture in australiaCultureInAustraliafree things to doFreeThingsToDosydneysydney botanic gardenssydney marketssydney nightlifesydney opera housesydney parksSydneyBotanicGardensSydneyMarketsSydneyNightlifeSydneyOperaHouseSydneyParksTue, 20 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Want a beautiful night sky? Go to the Isle of Sark]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/14/want-a-beautiful-night-sky-go-to-the-isle-of-sark/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/14/want-a-beautiful-night-sky-go-to-the-isle-of-sark/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/14/want-a-beautiful-night-sky-go-to-the-isle-of-sark/#commentsFiled under: , ,

beautiful night sky
Few things are as beautiful and awe-inspiring as the sky on a clear, dark night. The problem is, most of us live in cities or towns and the lights blot out all but the brightest stars and planets.

The Isle of Sark, one of the Channel Islands, has decided to become the place to go for skygazers. Early this year it was named the world's first Dark Sky Island by the International Dark-Sky Association. The little island, with a population of only about 600, decided to put itself on the map by altering their lighting to reduce what astronomers call "light pollution". It helped that there are no streetlights, cars, or paved roads on Sark.

The Isle of Sark hopes "astro-tourism" will bring the local economy a big boost, especially during the winter. The island has been promoting tourism for some time. Being a small and somewhat remote member of the Channel Islands, it provides an experience most visitors to Europe miss. It offers some rugged hiking, caves, and a beautiful 17th century mansion. The dark skies, however, are what will really give the Isle of Sark a chance to stand out among the tough competition for tourists.

Of course this isn't the only remote spot with dark skies. Twelve years ago I visited Isla del Sol on the Bolivian side of Lake Titicaca. Like the Isle of Sark, there was no public lighting or cars. In fact, there was no electricity at all. At night it was so dark I needed a flashlight to keep from getting lost on my way to the outhouse. The starry sky was the most brilliant I've ever seen and I've never forgotten it. Has anyone out there been to Isla del Sol more recently? Is it still that dark at night?

Photo courtesy Forest Wander, which has lots of beautiful free nature photography.

Want a beautiful night sky? Go to the Isle of Sark originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amateuer astronomersAmateuerAstronomersamateur astonomyAmateurAstonomyastro-tourismastronomersastronomybeautiful dark skybeautiful night skyBeautifulDarkSkyBeautifulNightSkyBoliviaChannel IslandChannel Island tourismChannel island travelChannel islandsChannelIslandChannelIslandsChannelIslandTourismChannelIslandTraveldark skiesdark skydark sky movementDarkSkiesDarkSkyDarkSkyMovementInternational Dark-Sky AssociationInternationalDark-skyAssociationIsle of SarkIsleOfSarkLake TiticacaLakeTiticacaSarkstar partiesstar partyStarPartiesStarPartyUKUK tourismUK travelUkTourismUkTravelWed, 14 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a musical trip to Colombia with The Original Sound of Cumbia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/07/take-a-musical-trip-to-colombia-with-the-original-sound-of-cumbi/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/07/take-a-musical-trip-to-colombia-with-the-original-sound-of-cumbi/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/07/take-a-musical-trip-to-colombia-with-the-original-sound-of-cumbi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I made my first visit to Colombia this past February and was immediately fascinated with the place. Everything from the rough-around-the-edges charm of Bogota, to the exotic tropical fruit juices, to the vibrant nightlife left me craving more. Today on Spotify I found an album that brought all of those Colombian travel experiences rushing back - a just-released compilation called "The Original Sound of Cumbia."

What's Cumbia, you say? Well, it's a musical style uniquely typical of Colombia, an infectious blend of trumpets, drums and accordions that combines the influence of indigenous tribes, Spanish colonists and rhythms brought from Africa by slaves. Basically it's the type of music that will have you dancing around your desk and shaking your hips to the pulsing, catchy tunes. Sound interesting? Well The Original Sound of Colombia is exactly what you need to get started. Created by the musical experts at Soundway Records, the 2-disc album collects some of the genre's greatest hits from all the way back in 1948 all the way up to 1979. The meticulously selected songs chart the rise of this elegant, catchy, fun and joyous sound as it evolved from peasant party music to the official soundtrack of Colombia.

Many music-lovers are guilty of banishing non-American and non-European bands to a catch-all genre called World Music. Before you write off The Original Sound of Cumbia as just another collection of music from some strange South American country, give it a listen on Spotify or buy the CD from Soundway. Even if you've never been to Colombia, we promise it will have you dancing circles around your laptop while you book the next flight down to Bogota.

Take a musical trip to Colombia with The Original Sound of Cumbia originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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