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: An ultra high resolution look at the American Southwest]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/07/video-an-ultra-high-resolution-look-at-the-american-southwest/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/07/video-an-ultra-high-resolution-look-at-the-american-southwest/http://www.gadling.com/2011/12/07/video-an-ultra-high-resolution-look-at-the-american-southwest/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Time lapse photographer and filmmaker Tom Lowe has been working on his new and innovative creation for over two years now. The video is actually a clip of his soon-to-debut film, TimeScapes, which showcases the beauty of the American Southwest using Canon RAW and Epic Red still cameras. Because the movie was filmed and edited at 4K resolution, which is four times greater than regular high definition, the moments and places really come to life on the screen.

Watch sunsets at Salton Sea, coastlines, Redwoods, and waterfalls in Big Sur, and meteor showers at Bristlecone take on a life of their own as firefalls, eclipses, cultural dances, lakes, mountains, starry skys, concerts, and unique landscapes are shown like never before.

To see a stunning preview of what's to come, as well as hear music by John Stanford, check out this video:

TimeScapes 4K from Tom Lowe on Vimeo.

Video: An ultra high resolution look at the American Southwest originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelamericaamerican southwestAmericanSouthwestart and cultureArtAndCulturebudget travelBudgetTravelfirefallshigh definition filmsHighDefinitionFilmsmetero showersMeteroShowersnational parksNationalParksphotographytimescapestimescapes 4kTimescapes4ktravel filmstravel gearTravelFilmsTravelGearusavideowaterfallsWed, 07 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tickets for the Nomading Film Festival in New York go on sale Friday]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/10/tickets-for-the-nomading-film-festival-in-new-york-go-on-sale-fr/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/10/tickets-for-the-nomading-film-festival-in-new-york-go-on-sale-fr/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/10/tickets-for-the-nomading-film-festival-in-new-york-go-on-sale-fr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

After a successful run this past June, the Nomading Film Festival is returning to New York this summer, June 23, 2012. Nomading Film Festival is an event that showcases stories caught on film during peoples' travels, giving new talent a chance to share their stories and viewers a chance to travel all over the world without leaving Brooklyn.

The really early bird tickets will be sold at a very discounted price this Friday, November 11, 2011. Not only that, but travelers of all ages from all over the world can begin submitting their travel videos (must be under 15 minutes). Until April 30, 2012, submissions are only $10, and selected filmmakers will be notified by May 15, 2012. Prizes, such as trips, flights, and gear, are awarded in three categories:
  • The nomad I want to travel with
  • The most enlightening trip
  • Simply put, that trip makes me want to travel, now!
Guest speakers, workshops, games, and music will also be part of the fun. For more information, visit their official website. To get a better idea of what to expect, check out one of Nomading's travel-inspired films:

Tickets for the Nomading Film Festival in New York go on sale Friday originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbudget travelBudgetTravelevents in new yorkEventsInNewYorkfilm festivalFilmFestivallive musicLiveMusicluxury travelLuxuryTravelnew yorkNewYorknomadnomading film festivalNomadingFilmFestivalsummer eventsSummerEventstravel conteststravel filmstravel videosTravelContestsTravelFilmsTravelVideoswin tripsWinTripsThu, 10 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Travel photography: How to make a tripod that fits in your pocket]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/03/travel-photography-how-to-make-a-tripod-that-fits-in-your-pocke/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/03/travel-photography-how-to-make-a-tripod-that-fits-in-your-pocke/http://www.gadling.com/2011/11/03/travel-photography-how-to-make-a-tripod-that-fits-in-your-pocke/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

homemade tripodFor those out there who don't want to spend a lot of money on fancy equipment or hate lugging around a heavy tripod during your travels, there is a solution that costs less than $3 and fits right in your pocket. Travel blogger Alex from the Travel Noodle gives photographers instructions on how to create a string pod, which is essentially a tripod made of string.

The supplies you will need include:
  • A piece of string that is a little bit longer than your own height
  • a 1/4" eye bolt (this will work for most cameras, although you may want to confirm the size of your camera's tripod socket at the hardware store)
  • A large washer
You will begin by tying one end of the string to the eye bolt and the other end to the washer. Next, screw the eye bolt into the tripod socket of your camera. Then, with the string attached, drop the washer to the ground and stand on it. Now, with the string nice and taut you can begin taking excellent travel photos without having to worry about the dreaded camera shake.

Travel photography: How to make a tripod that fits in your pocket originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbudget travelBudgetTravelcheap gearcheap travel gearCheapGearCheapTravelGeardo it yourselfDoItYourselftravel photographtravel planningTravelPhotographTravelPlanningtripodThu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Preferred Pride hotel program caters to LGBT travelers]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/23/preferred-pride-hotel-program-caters-to-lgbt-travelers/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/23/preferred-pride-hotel-program-caters-to-lgbt-travelers/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/23/preferred-pride-hotel-program-caters-to-lgbt-travelers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

preferred pride hotelsNearly 100 preferred hotel group members have joined together to create Preferred Pride, a network of independently owned and operated hotels that cater to the needs of the LGBT community. In addition to being "gay welcoming", these hotels offer equal opportunity employment and are active in their efforts to support the LGBT community.

Certain requirements exist for hotels to be able to join Preferred Pride. Hotels must be either TAG Approved (Community Marketing's Travel Alternative Group) or be a member of IGLTA (International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association).

The Preferred Pride program was created in order to bring together a diverse group of hotels from around the world who are committed to the LGBT community, as well as a way to learn more about what this community needs in order to have a more enjoyable travel experience.

Preferred Pride hotel program caters to LGBT travelers originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bisexualbudget travelBudgetTravelgaygay friendly hotelsgay hotelsgay travelGayFriendlyHotelsGayHotelsGayTravellesbianLGBTtransgenderSun, 23 Oct 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New York on a budget: Your free day in New York]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/18/new-york-on-a-budget-your-free-day-in-new-york/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/18/new-york-on-a-budget-your-free-day-in-new-york/http://www.gadling.com/2011/10/18/new-york-on-a-budget-your-free-day-in-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

new york on a budgetVisitors to New York often think that to experience the culture of the city they will have to pay a fortune. To disprove that theory, here is an itinerary that will allow you to enjoy a free afternoon (well, you might have to pay $2.25 for the subway).

The walk begins in Rockefeller Center. Take the F, D, M, or B to to the 47th-50th St. Rockefeller Center stop, the N or the R to 49th St., the 1 to 50th St., or the 6 to 51st St. Begin your day by exploring the many shops, cafes, and studios in Rockefeller Center (tip: visit Rain to sample South African bath and body items and get free advice on how customize your perfect scrubs). Stroll through the Channel Gardens and Promenade and admire nature and art. There are also traces of art and history located around the entire Rockefeller Center, including oil paintings, stone statues, bronze sculptures, and more. Another fun free thing to do is to sit in on a live taping of the show. If you haven't made arrangements in advance, you can try to get standby tickets when you are there. If it is winter, enjoy the feeling of Christmas in the air by watching ice skaters and characters in costume move around the giant lit-up Christmas tree that New York is so famous for.

Continue reading New York on a budget: Your free day in New York

New York on a budget: Your free day in New York originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art galleries in new yorkart in new yorkArtGalleriesInNewYorkArtInNewYorkaustrian cultural forumAustrianCulturalForumbudget travelBudgetTravelcentral parkCentralParkcheap eatscheap restaurants in new yorkCheapEatsCheapRestaurantsInNewYorkfree art in new yorkfree museums in new yorkFreeArtInNewYorkFreeMuseumsInNewYorkmuseums in new yorkMuseumsInNewYorknew yorknew york on a budgetNewYorkNewYorkOnABudgettrump towerTrumpTowerTue, 18 Oct 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Travel sizes and the 3-1-1 rule: new study suggests shift in consumer behavior]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/15/travel-sizes-and-the-3-1-1-rule-new-study-suggests-shift-in-con/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/15/travel-sizes-and-the-3-1-1-rule-new-study-suggests-shift-in-con/http://www.gadling.com/2011/08/15/travel-sizes-and-the-3-1-1-rule-new-study-suggests-shift-in-con/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

travel sizesThe TSA's 3-1-1 rule has been in place for only five years, but it may have forever changed travel behavior.

The rule limits passengers to one quart sized zippered bag and liquid or gel items of no more than 3.4 ounces in all carry-on luggage.

Prior to the 3-1-1 rule's implementation, 18% of the respondents considered themselves to "not at all" purchase travel sizes prior to the 3-1-1 rule, 59% did "sometimes," and 23% considered themselves regular users.

Slightly over 40% of the survey respondents currently use travel-sized products 41% one to four times per year, 34% use them five to eight times, 14% use them nine to 12 times and 11% use them more than once per month.

As might be expected, the "regular" users of travel-sized items reported little shift in behavior and the regular and occasional users reported upticks in usage.

What was of particular interest was that their usage was fairly evenly split amongst purchasing branded travel sized items, and transferring their existing large sizes into empty travel sized containers. One could surmise that there were different factors that went into the choice to convert existing large sizes into empty bottles:

Continue reading Travel sizes and the 3-1-1 rule: new study suggests shift in consumer behavior

Travel sizes and the 3-1-1 rule: new study suggests shift in consumer behavior originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 fl oz3-1-1-rule3FlOzminimus.biztravel sizetravel sizedtravel sizesTravelSizeTravelSizedTravelSizestsaMon, 15 Aug 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Apoc Neoshell Jacket from Westcomb]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/28/apoc-neoshell-jacket-from-westcomb/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/28/apoc-neoshell-jacket-from-westcomb/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/28/apoc-neoshell-jacket-from-westcomb/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

At the intersection of breath ability, waterproofing, and lightweight material lies the holy grail of outer wear. It's the quest for that fabric that brought us Gore-Tex and Triple Point Ceramic and any number of branded fabric names.

Now there's NeoShell by Polartec, a breathable waterproof fabric that claims to be "100% more breathable than the best waterproof breathable on the market in active conditions". Westcomb, a Canadian outerwear company is using NeoShell for their not yet on the market Apoc jacket, and at first blush, it looks to be good stuff. Here's a little more propaganda, directly from the NeoShell site:

Waterproof technology has remained about the same since the very first hard shell. Breathability is achieved through diffusion: moisture and heat create enough pressure that moisture vapor finally passes through the fabric.

Soft shells trade waterproofness for greater breathability by making use of convection: a constant exchange of air allows more moisture vapor to escape. Now, Polartec(R) NeoShell(R) delivers the best of both worlds.

I noticed the difference in weight right away -- the Apoc is absolutely a few ounces lighter than my Goretex shell, I could feel it. The fabric is slightly softer, slightly smoother, it's got a little bit more drape. The jacket folds up to very small; you can easily stuff it in your pack or suitcase.

There's just one thing missing from this very nice jacket. I prefer two way zippers, that way you can open the jacket from the bottom, too. That's all I've got for criticism -- I like everything else, the feel of the fabric, the cut of the jacket, the sharp acid green color. Don't want the green? You can get it in blue, gray, red, yellow, or black.

The rest of the Apoc jacket shows a really nice attention to detail. There are deep zippered pockets for your stuff. There's a bicep pocket for your lift ticket or lip balm. There's an inside pocket for your wallet and phone; it includes a pass-through for your headsets. All the seams are taped and lie flat. My favorite detail is that the collar is lined with a very light, fleecy material where it hits your face when it's zipped all the way up.

Pair this jacket with a lightweight down sweater or shirt, and you are set for almost any weather. It's not on retail racks yet, look for it as the the 2011 summer wanes.

Apoc Neoshell Jacket from Westcomb originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breathable fabricBreathableFabricclothingcoatGoreTexjacketmaterialneoshelloutdoorPolartecshellweatherproofTue, 28 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sexy titanium travel accessories from Snow Peak]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/03/sexy-titanium-travel-accessories-from-snow-peak/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/03/sexy-titanium-travel-accessories-from-snow-peak/http://www.gadling.com/2011/06/03/sexy-titanium-travel-accessories-from-snow-peak/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The spork is one of those things you really shouldn't leave home without. Yeah, it's dorky and has funny name, but it's your friend when you want a yogurt from the corner market and all you have to eat it with are those stir sticks in the hotel coffee condiment package.

And the refillable coffee or other beverage canister, well, are you really still taking your coffee to go in a throw away paper cup? It's not like you can't find those refillable things as swag at every other conference you attend, right?

Say you're not too uptight to reuse your own coffee container, but you don't want one that says "large software company" or "weird beverage with additives" on the side. Say you want something that's mad stylish, sexy even. Say you want your spork to express the fact that you are traveling light, practical, and know your metallic elements. Snow Peak has the gear for you and it's dead sexy stuff, too.

Here's what hot about the spork: The colors, for starters, those yummy brushed metal colors. They're not painted, the color is bonded to the metal through some kind of crazy magic, so while yeah, they'll fade over time, they'll still hold that shiny blue, that that glowing purple, that sparkly green.There's a punchhole on the handle so you can put it on your key ring. And really, it's pretty. Also, for now, there's no mention of the mighty spork on the TSA's prohibited items list -- I checked.

Continue reading Sexy titanium travel accessories from Snow Peak

Sexy titanium travel accessories from Snow Peak originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bottlescannistercoolerdrinkinggearpacking lightPackingLightrefillablesporksporkstravel mugTravelMugutensilsFri, 03 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top five travel gadgets NOT to take on your next trip (and what to pack instead)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/23/top-five-travel-gadgets-not-to-take-on-your-next-trip-and-what/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/23/top-five-travel-gadgets-not-to-take-on-your-next-trip-and-what/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/23/top-five-travel-gadgets-not-to-take-on-your-next-trip-and-what/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

gadget, gadgets
I'm in the throes of packing for a two-month journey to Ethiopia. I try to pack light, other than the inevitable pile of books. While some tech freaks pack a lot of travel gadgets, I find these to be more of a hindrance than a help. Here are five things that you might want to leave behind if you're heading out for some adventure travel.

GPS
Yes, these are handy, but they can break with rough handling and are very attractive to thieves.
What to bring instead: A compass. It's cheaper, much less likely to break or be stolen, and with a good map is just as useful. It also makes you notice the terrain more and become more aware of the lay of the land.

Ereader
Ebooks certainly save space, and many travelers like ebooks, but ereaders are far more stealable than some tattered old paperback. Plus you need to recharge your device and you can't give or exchange books with the locals.
What to bring instead: A paperback or three. Preferably something you don't mind trading or giving away.

IPod
Music is fun to have on the road, but it cuts you off from the sounds around you. I want to hear the muezzin's call, the chatter of foreign languages, the local tunes blasting from shops and cafes. My playlist is part of my life back home, so I don't need it while I'm away. I can listen to it when I get back.
What to bring instead: Nothing.

Continue reading Top five travel gadgets NOT to take on your next trip (and what to pack instead)

Top five travel gadgets NOT to take on your next trip (and what to pack instead) originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureadventure traveladventure travel tipsAdventureTravelAdventureTravelTipsappappsbookbookscompasscompassescomputercomputerscomputingebookebooksereaderGadgetsgearGPSiPhoneiPhone appiPhone appsIphoneAppIphoneAppsipodiPodsKindlelaptoplaptopsmusicNooktranslation softwareTranslationErrorstranslationsTranslationSoftwaretraveltravel geartravel techTravelGearTravelTechWed, 23 Feb 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Books! Travelers share what to read on the road]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/22/books-travelers-share-what-to-read-on-the-road/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/22/books-travelers-share-what-to-read-on-the-road/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/22/books-travelers-share-what-to-read-on-the-road/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

book, books
There's nothing like a trip for catching up on your reading. Even if you've filled your schedule with dawn-to-dusk sightseeing, there are still quiet moments at the hotel or by the pool, not to mention those long flights. So what's best to read while traveling? On Saturday I'm heading to Harar, Ethiopia, for two months, so this has been on my mind. I asked a bunch of seasoned travelers what's in their pack. Their suggestions fall into several overlapping categories.

Disposable
Most agree it's best to bring books you don't feel the need to bring back. Not only does this give you a chance to pick up something unexpected at a book exchange, it also frees up space for souvenirs. You can also give reading material away, as Catherine Bodry explains, "I always treat myself to magazines at the airport (People, Runners World, Oxygen, Nat Geo Traveler, etc.) and I usually stockpile a few issues of the New Yorker from the weeks prior to a trip. They also make great gifts if I'm headed to a censored country like China!"

Entertaining
Some people go for light, unchallenging reads. Annie Scott Riley says, "I'll finish anything I'm already reading; usually fiction, but anything I start on vacation has to be just for fun. For example, the Chelsea Handler books, anything Dave Barry, Chuck Klosterman. I guess I like some pop culture commentary to assess what I'm getting away from."

Educational
Many well-heeled travelers bring books that teach them about the places they'll see. Mike Barish says, "While in Hawaii earlier this month, I read Blue Latitudes about Cook's voyages in the Pacific Islands." Laurel Kallenbach says, "It can be nice to read Yeats in Ireland, Shakespeare in England. I lived for a few weeks in the French village of Ferney-Voltaire, so I read Voltaire's Candide there--and then toured the author's castle."

Variety
Many people like to have a variety of books. Mary Jo Manzanares finds her ereader handy. "Before leaving I load it up with a bunch of books from a variety of genres, then I can pick and choose what to ready while on the road. I like a variety of reading--something light for the airplane or on the beach (a mystery or chick lit), something historical when I'm on site, and I can also read blogs, magazines, and newspapers on it as well. Last year while staying in the middle of a vineyard in Tuscany I saw that one of my favorite authors had just released his new book--just a minute later I was able to download and read it. Best of all, I can take all this reading with me and take up no space at all."

Continue reading Books! Travelers share what to read on the road

Books! Travelers share what to read on the road originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bookbooksebookebooksereaderereadersEthiopiaHararKindleliteraturenookreadingresearchtravel readtravel readingtravel readstravel writingTravelReadTravelReadingTravelReadsTravelWritingwritingTue, 22 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What's in your pack: Scott Carmichael]]>http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/22/whats-in-your-pack-scott-carmichael/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/22/whats-in-your-pack-scott-carmichael/http://www.gadling.com/2011/02/22/whats-in-your-pack-scott-carmichael/#commentsFiled under: ,

whats in your pack

It has been several years since we last visited our "What's in your pack" segment here on Gadling. As times (and gadgets) have changed, it is time to breath some fresh air into the feature, and we'll start with yours truly.

Lets get something out in the open - I'm a total gadget freak. My gadget needs go way, way beyond the usual "laptop, camera, charger", and it isn't uncommon for my gadgets to take up more than half the weight of the crap I carry on a trip. Of course, what I carry does vary for each trip, so I've collected the kind of stuff I'll carry on an average trip.

Continue reading What's in your pack: Scott Carmichael

What's in your pack: Scott Carmichael originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcallpodchargepodchargergeariphoneipod tochIpodTochluggagepalm prePalmPrepelicantechnologytekkeotekkeontom bihnTomBihntravel-techTue, 22 Feb 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What to pack in a carry on - ten things Gadling readers actually use]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/15/what-to-pack-in-a-carry-on-ten-things-gadling-readers-actually/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/15/what-to-pack-in-a-carry-on-ten-things-gadling-readers-actually/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/15/what-to-pack-in-a-carry-on-ten-things-gadling-readers-actually/#commentsFiled under: ,

What to packSo, you've got yourself the ultimate carry on for your upcoming air travel. Now, you have to figure out what to pack in it.

For those of us who check a bag, it can be hard to decide what, exactly, to bring on the plane with us. Valuables and documents are a must, for safety, but do you really need that computer cable? Do you need Bandaids? Did you splurge on a stupid gadget you'll never use? Traveling light is key; it's no fun lugging a full, heavy carry on around. We asked our readers on Facebook what they actually use during their flights. Take a look at this list before you overpack and weigh yourself down.

Ten things Gadling readers actually use from their carry ons:

1. Kindle - Marsha, Christine, Martha and Max

2. Book and/or magazine - Saadia, Amy, Karen, Despina, Norma and Nicole

3. Noise canceling or other headphones - Christine, Arun, Norma and Shelby

Continue reading What to pack in a carry on - ten things Gadling readers actually use

What to pack in a carry on - ten things Gadling readers actually use originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carry oncarry on bagsCarryOnCarryOnBagsfacebookgadling readersGadlingReaderspackingpacking tipsPackingTipswhat to packWhatToPackWed, 15 Dec 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cruise survival kit: What you need to be totally prepared]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/14/cruise-survival-kit-what-you-need-to-be-totally-prepared/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/14/cruise-survival-kit-what-you-need-to-be-totally-prepared/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/14/cruise-survival-kit-what-you-need-to-be-totally-prepared/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

cruise survival kitCarnival Inspiration finally docked in Florida at 8:30 p.m. last night after being held out at sea due to weather conditions. A bunch of other Carnival ships are sailing modified itineraries for weather-related issues. Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas was tossed around in bad Middle East weather.

News from the cruise industry lately has been all about weather-related delays, modifications of itineraries, disabled ships, braving storms and compensation to passengers for their troubles. With that in mind, cruise packing lists are being updated with a number of items normally found on lists for camping or backpacking. Start with these for your cruise survival kit:

Satellite phone
For as little as $24.95 a week you can rent global Iridium Satellite Phones from Satellite Phone.com. They can provide the lifeline you want when power goes out. Call rates of between $.99 and $1.59 a minute might sound expensive sitting on dry land but that will quickly be a bargain if you are the only one able to communicate with the outside world.

Lots of backup power
When the ship loses power the clock starts ticking on your cell phone or camera battery. What could be a timely call home (if and when you can catch a signal) to let friends and family know you are OK might not happen without plenty of backup power. iPhone users know Mophie.com is the place to go. Brookstone has a universal battery that works for phones and cameras.

Survival food
The passengers aboard Carnival Splendor, the ship by an engine room fire, have a lesson for us: Bring food. When lavish buffets and gourmet dining come to a screeching halt because the power got knocked out or the buffet lines thrown around by angry seas, some high protein snacks will come in handy. Think canned nuts, peanut butter, or other survival food high in calories that won't take up a lot of space in luggage.

The right luggage
Now, more than ever, its a good idea to have only one piece of luggage that you can keep with you at all times. Cruise lines allow passengers to skip checking luggage if they can carry it on and off the ship without assistance. On Carnival Inspiration, held at sea for so long, guests who held on to their luggage were the winners. Durable Victorinox has some great choices.

The odds are you will have a totally safe and care-free cruise vacation. But savvy travelers know that being prepared for anything that might come your way is a good idea.

Cruise survival kit: What you need to be totally prepared originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backup powerBackupPowercarnivalcarnival cruise lineCarnivalCruiseLineCruisecruise survival listCruise vacationCruiseSurvivalListCruiseVacationmophiepacking listPackingListroyal caribbeanRoyalCaribbeansatellite phoneSatellitePhonetravel weatherTravelWeathervictorinoxweather-related cruise itinerary modificationWeather-relatedCruiseItineraryModificationTue, 14 Dec 2010 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the Day (12.7.10)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/07/photo-of-the-day-12-7-10/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/07/photo-of-the-day-12-7-10/http://www.gadling.com/2010/12/07/photo-of-the-day-12-7-10/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

I love travel gear shots. I'm always curious to know what people consider essential items & what tech gadgets people can't live without on the road. This photo was taken in 2005 and at first glance, seemed pretty outdated.

These days, it's rare to see a camera that shoots on DV tapes, a Powerbook, or an iPod without a touchscreen (gasp)! It just makes me wonder what we'll consider outdated in 5 years from now - laptops? Full-sized SLR's? Guide books / printed materials altogether?

This photo was taken in Canada by Flickr user Jon Rawlinson. Thanks for sharing what was in your bag Jon! If you'd like to share your travel essentials leave a comment below or take a quick photo and post it in our Flickr Group - we may just include it as our next Photo of the Day.

Photo of the Day (12.7.10) originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleCameraEuropeGadgetsGuide BookGuideBookiPodJon RawlinsonJonRawlinsonPackingPhoto of the dayPhotoOfTheDayPowerbookSLRTechTechnologyTravel GearTravelGearWhats in your bagWhatsInYourBagTue, 07 Dec 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Gadling: What to do when you can't fit everything into your luggage]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/08/ask-gadling-what-to-do-when-you-cant-fit-everything-into-your/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/08/ask-gadling-what-to-do-when-you-cant-fit-everything-into-your/http://www.gadling.com/2010/10/08/ask-gadling-what-to-do-when-you-cant-fit-everything-into-your/#commentsFiled under:

The closing of the suitcase.

In this day and age, when we have to pack so carefully -- in smaller suitcases -- to avoid checking our luggage, it's just not fair when we get to the end of a trip and the dang suitcase won't close. Are we supposed to bring a huge suitcase packed halfway and pay for checking baggage twice? Robbery.

There are a couple of options you have when you find yourself in this quandary. You can ship the extra gear, which can be costly. Or, you can bring (or buy) a collapsible bag (like a duffel) in your suitcase and check it, filled with your dirty clothes and shoes, on the way home. If you have a lot more stuff than you can pack, these may be your only options.

Still, there are other ways of getting what you want: all your stuff on the airplane with you, free of charge.

Continue reading Ask Gadling: What to do when you can't fit everything into your luggage

Ask Gadling: What to do when you can't fit everything into your luggage originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askgadlingpackingsuitcaseFri, 08 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BYO-Spa - June Jacobs luxe beauty products for travelers]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/16/byo-spa-june-jacobs-spa-collection-travel-kit/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/16/byo-spa-june-jacobs-spa-collection-travel-kit/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/16/byo-spa-june-jacobs-spa-collection-travel-kit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

June Jacobs Travel Kit
You can only buy certain products in that "Travel Items" aisle in the drugstore, and they're not the best ones. Isn't it time that a decent spa company came out with a line of luxurious, skin-friendly products you can get safely through TSA?

June Jacobs, known for rich, protective botanical products infused with antioxidants and anti-aging agents, has released a Flight Friendly Skin Care collection, consisting of a Face Travel Kit ($100), Body Travel Kit ($95) and Intensive Age Defying Travel Kit ($165). Those prices may seem steep, but for small versions of so many great products, you'll find it's actually a deal. And, unlike those drugstore products, June Jacobs' products contain no parabens, preservatives, synthetic dyes or sulfates.

The Face Travel Kit, pictured above, contains the following elegant, crave-worthy potions:
  • Creamy Cranberry Cleanser
  • Pore Refining Oatmeal Scrub
  • Aroma Mineral Mist
  • Advanced Cell Repair Serum
  • Skin Amour Day Shield SPF 15
  • Ultra Light Citrus Moisturizer
  • Cooling Cucumber Eye Gel
  • Lip Renewal
One splurge on this package, and you're likely to be more beautiful when you travel than when you're home. Fortunately, these are all just mini versions of products available in full sizes from JuneJacobs.com. Even if you're not traveling, dipping into one of these kits is a cost-effective way to try out the June Jacobs line.

Thank you, June Jacobs, for recognizing that luxury beauty consumers also tend to be travelers.


[Photo by Annie Scott.]

BYO-Spa - June Jacobs luxe beauty products for travelers originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beautyJune JacobsJuneJacobsspatraveltravel beautyTravelBeautyThu, 16 Sep 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 things Gadling readers always forget to pack]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/13/top-10-things-gadling-readers-always-forget-to-pack/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/13/top-10-things-gadling-readers-always-forget-to-pack/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/13/top-10-things-gadling-readers-always-forget-to-pack/#commentsFiled under:

Hard to know what you forgot ...Don't you feel silly when you forget to pack something obvious? Well, there's no need to. It's evidently a species-wide problem: intelligent, gainfully employed and generally responsible people just can't seem to get it together when packing. Our brains were clearly not designed for this type of "everything I need goes in a little box" situation.

We asked our readers on Facebook what they always forget to pack and got a response that made us smile in commiseration: a slew of really obvious things, most of which we've forgotten ourselves at some point. Read and enjoy our Top 10 favorites; you're likely to recognize your own folly in there somewhere.

Top 10 things Gadling readers always forget to pack

1. "Toothpaste or a toothbrush. Apparently, dental hygiene is not as important to me as my tech gear." -- Amber

2. "Deodorant. ALWAYS. I have bought deodorant in about 20 different countries." -- Andrew

3. "Socks." -- Susan

4. "Toothbrush and one shoe." -- Jamie

5. "My phone charger!" -- Mari

6. "I've had to buy a comb and round brush multiple times this year -- I either forget to take them with me, or forget to bring them home. Good thing I have short hair and can get away with finger combing for single night stays!" -- Kristen

7. "Contact solution." -- Aimet

8. "My cord to download pics from my camera!" --Amy

9. "My razor." -- Elva (Runner up: "fingernail clippers" by Lisa.)

10. "Bottle of whiskey." -- Justin (Thumbs up to Justin for identifying an underacknowledged essential.)

See? You're not the only one who can't remember to pack anything!

So, you think what you forgot is stupid? Visit the Gadling Facebook Page to join in the conversation!



[Photo by Foxtongue via Flickr.]

Top 10 things Gadling readers always forget to pack originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Facebookpackingpacking tipstop 10top tenMon, 13 Sep 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Women adventurers heed the Call of the Wild]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/12/women-adventurers-urged-to-heed-the-call-of-the-wild/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/12/women-adventurers-urged-to-heed-the-call-of-the-wild/http://www.gadling.com/2010/09/12/women-adventurers-urged-to-heed-the-call-of-the-wild/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

With the adventure travel market continuing to grow at an astonishing rate, women only adventures have become an increasingly popular option as well.These trips generally offer all the same wild and challenging options that any other adventure vacation would, with perhaps a few creature comforts added in for good measure.

One of the top travel companies that specializes in women's only travel is Call of the Wild, based out of Mountain View, California. The company first began organizing adventure vacations back in 1978 when founder Carole Laitmer was unceremoniously fired from her secretarial job. In order to make ends meet, she soon began organizing guided trips for women into the High Sierra Mountains of California, and the rest is, as they say, history.

Now in its 32nd year of business, Call of the Wild continues to organize some of the best adventurous getaways both domestically and abroad. For instance, some of their upcoming trips include hiking around Lake Tahoe to enjoy the Indian Summer, trekking in the the shadow of Mt. Everest in Nepal, and a weekend of snowshoeing in Sequoia National Park. Other trips will take clients to Peru, New Zealand, Guatemala, and beyond.

But just because you're traveling to remote corners of the globe doesn't mean you can't pamper yourself at the same time. One of the hallmarks of any Call of the Wild trip is the gourmet cuisine and the company puts a great deal of thought, and effort, into planning a wide variety of healthy and delicious meals on all of their trips. Even their backpacking excursions offer fantastic meals on the trail thanks to fresh ingredients that are dehydrated prior to departure, and combined to make surprisingly tasty backwoods offerings. The ladies on these trips all agree, an amazing meal after a long and challenging day of trekking, can make everything feel better.

Many of Call of the Wild's clients return for multiple trips, and often report making good, life-long friends on their journeys. These vacations allow them to get closer to nature and escape the daily grind, while putting some much needed adventure into their lives. For a complete list of Call of the Wild adventures and to choose one that best fits your style of travel, click here.

[Photo credit: Call of the Wild]

Women adventurers heed the Call of the Wild originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 12 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelEveresthikingMount EverestMountEverestmt everestMtEverestSequoia National ForestSequoiaNationalForesttrekkingTrekkingInNepalwomenwomens healthwomens only travelWomensHealthWomensOnlyTravelSun, 12 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Make your trip more luxurious with balls. Aromatherapy massage balls.]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/12/make-your-trip-more-luxurious-with-balls-aromatherapy-massage-b/http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/12/make-your-trip-more-luxurious-with-balls-aromatherapy-massage-b/http://www.gadling.com/2010/08/12/make-your-trip-more-luxurious-with-balls-aromatherapy-massage-b/#commentsFiled under: ,

t spheresThere was a time when you could bring whatever pampering cosmetic you wanted with you on your travels, but now, in the days baggage fees, bringing along a little luxury for yourself isn't so easy. One thing you can bring with you: balls. Aromatherapy massage balls, that is.

T spheres, or "tranquility spheres," makes little aromatherapy balls you can throw in your carry-on to ensure you have a relaxing, rejuvenating massage on your trip -- the catch is, you have to give it to yourself. Some t spheres techniques include:
  • Place a ball between your shoulderblades and lean back into a chair. Take deep breaths to trigger the pressure point for a mild to intense sensation.
  • Roll yourself up and down the ball a little bit. This will provide more relief for you.
  • Place the ball on the side of your spine. Breathe a few times. Then move it to the other side. Breathe.
  • Place the ball behind your sacrum.
  • Roll the ball under your foot to alleviate arch, heel and ball-of-the-foot pain.
These are just a few examples of the things you can do with a little scented t sphere. The goal is to increase circulation and help you relax. Scents include Rose Geranium for Inner Beauty and Peppermint Perk Up, and tiny Pep Up Mint balls for feet. In theory, you could use these right on the plane, but it would probably freak your neighbor out, and it's not really fair to impose a scent on a closed-in space like that.

I haven't tried the balls myself, but they've got Rita Wilson, Coldplay and Brooke Shields singing their praises, so for people who travel a lot, these little balls just might be worth it to have on-hand for emergency self-massage. Or something. They cost $20 to $35 plus shipping and handling and can be purchased here.

Make your trip more luxurious with balls. Aromatherapy massage balls. originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aromatherapybrooke shieldsBrookeShieldscoldplayluxurymassagerita wilsont spherestranquility spheresTSpheresThu, 12 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five tricks to get the most out of your travel wardrobe - without compromising style]]>http://www.gadling.com/2010/04/29/five-tricks-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-travel-wardrobe-withou/http://www.gadling.com/2010/04/29/five-tricks-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-travel-wardrobe-withou/http://www.gadling.com/2010/04/29/five-tricks-to-get-the-most-out-of-your-travel-wardrobe-withou/#commentsFiled under:

Closet ClothesIf you pack smart, you can pack less. That can save you money -- you can take a smaller bag and not have to check it -- and give you more space for souvenirs and the free toiletries provided to you. Even Donald Trump steals the slippers from his hotels. Win, win, win.

Still, I am not one to condone wearing the same thing every day in the interest of saving space. On the other end of the spectrum, you don't have to pack a totally different outfit for every day you're going to be gone (or two, if you're planning on dressing up for dinners). There is a happy medium. Here are Five tricks to get the most out of your travel wardrobe while still being impeccably well-dressed.

1. Pick a color scheme and stick with it.
If everything you pack matches, you can pack less. If you have two pairs of pants or pants and a skirt, two shirts and two jackets or sweaters that all go together reasonably well, that's 2^3 outfits (eight). That's right. Math.

2. Basic clothes, eye-catching accessories.
You can get away with wearing those basics twice if the eye-catching part of your ensemble is the tie or scarf (or statement jewelry). And you can fit a lot of ties and scarves in a suitcase.

Continue reading Five tricks to get the most out of your travel wardrobe - without compromising style

Five tricks to get the most out of your travel wardrobe - without compromising style originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>packingPackingTipsThu, 29 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST