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[Unusual Tourist Attraction: Japanese City Unveils World's Largest Toilet]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/unusual-tourist-attraction-japanese-city-unveils-worlds-larges/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/unusual-tourist-attraction-japanese-city-unveils-worlds-larges/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/unusual-tourist-attraction-japanese-city-unveils-worlds-larges/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

toilets While most travelers spend time visiting sites like churches, castles, parks and museums, Ichihara City in the Chiba Prefecture of Japan is hoping to bring in tourists with a new kind of attraction: the world's largest toilet. In fact, they're so hopeful that the unusual attraction will bring in travelers; they've spent 10 million yen (about $125,945) on the project.

The site, which sits in front of Itabu Station on the Kominato Railway Line, is actually your average-sized toilet; however, it's housed in a giant clear box and sits on an expansive 2,153 square-foot plot of land. While it doesn't provide much privacy on the property, there is a surrounding fence to hide the toilet from outsiders. The city is hoping the beautiful new toilet will provide an enjoyable reprieve for drivers and passengers of the train, as well as attendees of next year's Ichihara Art Festival.

Right now, the lavish restroom is only open to women, although the designer of the toilet, Sou Fujimoto, wants it to be open to the public for everyone to enjoy.

"I could enjoy the spectacular view while still feeling protected," the architect told the Japan Times. "No other toilet would allow you a feeling like that."

[flickr image via Britt Selvitelle]

Unusual Tourist Attraction: Japanese City Unveils World's Largest Toilet originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 20 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artculturedesignichihara cityIchiharaCityluxury travelLuxuryTravelquirkyunusualunusual attractionsunusual sitesUnusualAttractionsUnusualSiteswomens travelWomensTravelworlds largest toiletWorldsLargestToiletSun, 20 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nakation Nation: Nudist Resorts And Beaches Solve Airline Baggage Fee Woes]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/nakation-nation-nudist-resorts-and-beaches-solve-airline-baggag/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/nakation-nation-nudist-resorts-and-beaches-solve-airline-baggag/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/20/nakation-nation-nudist-resorts-and-beaches-solve-airline-baggag/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,

nude sunbatherAnd from the, "OMFG" department comes this information, via press release: The American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) "encourages wholesome family nude recreation ["Nakations"] in appropriate settings such as designated nude beaches and AANR-member resorts, or around the home. Experts have attested that children raised in a social nudist environment grow up with a stronger sense of self-esteem, free of many of the body image issues that trouble the average textile youth."

I'm most disturbed by the terms, "textile youth" and "Nakation." I'm not going to touch those with a ten-foot...never mind. Why I'm so skeeved out by the naked family vacay thing is a bit more convoluted. I like to think that I'm pretty open-minded, and it's true we've become a nation of body dysmorphic, eating-disordered freaks...when we're not morbidly obese, that is.

I have no problem going topless on European beaches, and have often bemoaned the puritanical leanings of Americans when it comes to censorship with regard to nudity on television and in magazines. I just feel that it's potential fodder for a therapist's couch when children and their parents frolic about sans textiles after the toddler stage has passed; I also believe that public nudity past toddler-hood is something that should only be done by consenting adults.

I've been to a nude beach twice. Maybe it's because I didn't holiday in the buff with my family (my eyes, my eyes!) as a child, but I can tell you two things my nude sunbathing didn't accomplish: providing me with a stronger sense of self-esteem, and freeing me of the body image issues that have troubled me ever since I was an average, deprived textiled youth.

Continue reading Nakation Nation: Nudist Resorts And Beaches Solve Airline Baggage Fee Woes

Nakation Nation: Nudist Resorts And Beaches Solve Airline Baggage Fee Woes originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 20 May 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beachesbeaches resortsBeachesResortsbody imageBodyImageclothing optionalclothing optional beachesClothingOptionalClothingOptionalBeacheseating disordersEatingDisordersfamily holidaysfamily vacationsFamilyHolidaysFamilyVacationsnude photosnude resortsNudePhotosNudeResortsnudist coloniesNudistColoniesnudistsPublicNuisanceself esteemSelfEsteemskin cancerSkinCancersummersummer vacationsSummerVacationsSun, 20 May 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How To Stay Sane While Backpacking]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/how-to-stay-sane-while-backpacking/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/how-to-stay-sane-while-backpacking/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/how-to-stay-sane-while-backpacking/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

screaming While travel is often thought of as being a luxurious and fun break from reality, there are times when you'll probably feel like you're losing your mind. Moving around can be exhausting, and being away from home can make you feel scattered. To help you stay sane on the road, here are some helpful tips.

Have Someone To Talk To

Having someone to talk to that is not a complete stranger when traveling is important, especially when you're on the road for long periods of time. Simply hearing the voice of a trusted friend or relative from home at times when you're away and feeling stressed can be a comforting reminder of home. If you don't want to pay for long-distance calls, services like Skype and Viber allow for low-cost and free calling.

Continue reading How To Stay Sane While Backpacking

How To Stay Sane While Backpacking originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbackpackingbudget travelBudgetTraveltipstravel tipsTravelTipsThu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Relaxing At The World's Highest Beer Spa In La Paz, Bolivia]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/relaxing-at-the-worlds-highest-beer-spa-in-la-paz-bolivia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/relaxing-at-the-worlds-highest-beer-spa-in-la-paz-bolivia/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/17/relaxing-at-the-worlds-highest-beer-spa-in-la-paz-bolivia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beerbeer spaBeerSpabudget travelBudgetTraveldrinkshealthla pazLaPaznightlifeThu, 17 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Travel Partners From Hell]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/15/travel-partners-from-hell/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/15/travel-partners-from-hell/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/15/travel-partners-from-hell/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

angryFor those debating whether to travel in a group or go solo, you'll want to read this. Just because you get along with someone at happy hour or Sunday morning spin class, doesn't mean it'll be smooth sailing on the road. After backpacking around the world for five years, both solo and with others, I've had my fair share of unpleasant travel partners. Think about these situations, and decide if your potential travel partner seems laid-back or fits into one of these categories.

The Cheapskate

For the most part, backpackers are budget-travelers by nature. They stay in dorms with 13 other people, forgo tours for the cheaper do-it-yourself version and will walk 15 blocks to save the equivalent of $1.50 on a meal. However, there's a big difference between trying to stretch your dollar, and being downright cheap. When backpacking Europe, I traveled with a girl who talked of nothing but how much her condo cost, and how she couldn't afford to eat or take the subway. She was so cheap; she used to eat the egg yolks from my daily chef's salad as her lunch. We also went to an amusement park in Vienna, but didn't go on any rides because she felt it was too expensive. In my mind, I was wondering why we had even walked the two hours to get there - because she refused to spend money on public transportation - if we weren't going to enjoy it. Before traveling, make sure you're both on the same page about the budget.

Continue reading Travel Partners From Hell

Travel Partners From Hell originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 15 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbackpackingbudget travelBudgetTravelgroup travelGroupTravelsolo travelSoloTravelstoriestravel partnersTravelPartnersTue, 15 May 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Ultimate Wedding Season Packing List]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/11/the-ultimate-wedding-season-packing-list/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/11/the-ultimate-wedding-season-packing-list/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/11/the-ultimate-wedding-season-packing-list/#commentsFiled under: , ,

There comes a time in every man's life when they realize that (1) all of their friends are getting married and (2) all of their vacation days are spent hopping from ceremony to ceremony.

Welcome to wedding season, a period of time that can last anywhere from one summer to one decade... or indefinitely, depending on how popular you are. It involves lots of travel, lots of champagne toasts and lots of cover bands performing "At Last."

Packing for wedding season travel can be particularly tricky, but it improves with practice. Here, a handy list of essentials you may not normally think to bring along, from a wedding season vet.

FOR THE LADIES

An extra pair of flats or fancy sandals. Those heels might match your dress perfectly but they probably won't hold up to an all-night dance party. An extra set of flats or sandals, packed away in your purse, will be invaluable at 1 a.m.

A wrap. A nice, neutral shawl can get a ton of mileage, whether as a cover-up at the ceremony or as a scarf on the plane.

Waterproof mascara. Because love is a beautiful thing.

Continue reading The Ultimate Wedding Season Packing List

The Ultimate Wedding Season Packing List originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 11 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 11 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tips For Staying Fit On The Road]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/02/tips-for-staying-fit-on-the-road/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/02/tips-for-staying-fit-on-the-road/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/02/tips-for-staying-fit-on-the-road/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

paradiseAt home I'm a health and fitness nut working out six days a week and eating a diet high in nutritional value. While this can sometimes be hard to maintain on the road, it isn't impossible. To help you stay in shape while traveling, here are some tips.

Stop Thinking You're On Vacation

Many people often have this idea that when they're traveling they're "on vacation," meaning they can eat whatever they want. Unfortunately, your body doesn't know you're on vacation and your metabolism isn't going to all of a sudden be put into overdrive. While you should absolutely sample all the local foods, do it in moderation. For example, if you're in France and want to sample one of their amazing chocolate croissants, have a small one or cut one in half and have it with fruit. And remember, while different regions have delicious desserts and rich entrees, they have healthy delicacies as well.

Continue reading Tips For Staying Fit On The Road

Tips For Staying Fit On The Road originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 02 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>active travelActiveTraveladventure travelAdventureTraveldancefitness appsFitnessAppshealthhealth appsHealthAppshikinghow to stay fit while travelingHowToStayFitWhileTravelingoutdoorssurfingtai chiTaiChitravel healthtravel technologyTravelHealthTravelTechnologyweight lossWeightLossWed, 02 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[For These Ladies, Paragliders Offered The Ultimate View Of Iceland. (Video)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/01/for-these-ladies-paragliders-offered-the-ultimate-view-of-icela/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/01/for-these-ladies-paragliders-offered-the-ultimate-view-of-icela/http://www.gadling.com/2012/05/01/for-these-ladies-paragliders-offered-the-ultimate-view-of-icela/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Paragliding pilots have the ultimate perch to get out and see the world. For two Icelandic women, a planned camping trip to the highlands of their country turned into one of the most mesmerizing videos I've come across.

In July 2011 two girls borrowed a 4x4, filled it with camping gear and paragliders and drove up to the Highlands of Iceland.

They experienced a new side of their own country, found some extreme flying spots and quaint people, learned how to drive across rivers, up mountains and how to read maps.

4 weeks later, having killed the vehicle, they returned and made this film:


I can think of no better excuse to travel than to take up paragliding and meet other pilots around the world. In fact, I plan to do just that. Stay tuned.

Want to learn to really fly? If you live in the U.S. look up a paragliding school close to you. It's less expensive than you think.

For These Ladies, Paragliders Offered The Ultimate View Of Iceland. (Video) originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 01 May 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campingflyingHighlandshikingIcelandlearn to flylearn to fly a paragliderLearnToFlyLearnToFlyAParagliderparagliderparaglidingpilotsoaringvideowomen pilotsWomenPilotsTue, 01 May 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sleeping In Seattle: The Consequences Of SAD]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/23/sleeping-in-seattle-the-consequences-of-sad/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/23/sleeping-in-seattle-the-consequences-of-sad/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/23/sleeping-in-seattle-the-consequences-of-sad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

depressionI recently mentioned my somewhat reluctant decision to relocate from Seattle when the right opportunity presents itself (A job and nice one bedroom in Berkeley, North Oakland or Boulder anyone? Anyone?).

While my move was precipitated by a layoff in February, I've known for a year that a relocation was necessary, regardless of my affection for my adopted city - despite my beautiful, relatively affordable apartment just two blocks from Lake Union and my peaceful, tree-lined neighborhood full of pretty houses brimming with gardens and backyard chickens. Even though I can walk everywhere, crime is virtually nonexistent and my landlord rocks.

The real reason I'm leaving Seattle is because I suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and arthritis (due to a bizarre infectious disease acquired in Ecuador three years ago). SAD is thought to result from a shift in the body's circadian rhythms, due to changes in sunlight patterns (think of how certain mammals hibernate in winter). Shorter, darker days also increase the amount of melatonin, a hormone linked to the regulation of sleep and waking, released by the pineal gland. Perhaps my being a Southern California native is to blame (although I'm officially a resident of Colorado...it's complicated, I know).

Continue reading Sleeping In Seattle: The Consequences Of SAD

Sleeping In Seattle: The Consequences Of SAD originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arthritisBay AreaBayAreaBerkeleyCaliforniaclimateColoradodepressioninfectious diseaseInfectiousDiseaseLake UnionLakeUnionlight boxlight therapyLightBoxLightTherapymelatoninmovingOaklandpacific northwestPacificNorthwestphototherapyPuget SoundPugetSoundrainrainy climateRainyClimaterelocatingSADSan FranciscoSanFranciscoSeattlesleepingsnowsnowy climateSnowyClimatevitamin dVitaminDweatherMon, 23 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five Things You Can Do On Earth Day To Save Natural Resources]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/21/five-things-you-can-do-on-earth-day-to-save-natural-resources/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/21/five-things-you-can-do-on-earth-day-to-save-natural-resources/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/21/five-things-you-can-do-on-earth-day-to-save-natural-resources/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

earthEarth Day is upon us, and even if you're not planning to celebrate our planet's making it through another year (what global warming?), there are still some simple measures you can take to show your gratitude. Love your Mother, you know?

Whether you're on the road or at home, the following are smart rules to implement every day of the year:
  • Do laundry at night, after peak electricity usage hours and only wash full loads.
  • Use a travel mug when you purchase your morning coffee and carry a reusble water bottle.
  • Stash reusable shopping bags in your car, purse or backpack and desk.
  • Turn the tap off while brushing your teeth, washing your face, doing dishes or shaving.
  • Switch to e-tickets, e-pay, and other paperless forms of commerce; add your name to no junk mail and catalog lists.

[Photo credit: Flickr user kevin dooley]

How to Save Water and Save Money

Five Things You Can Do On Earth Day To Save Natural Resources originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 21 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BPABPA-freecarbon footprintCarbonFootprintcatalogscoffeeconservatione ticketsEarth DayEarthDayecoeco productseco-friendlyecommerceEcoProductsenvironmentenvironmentally friendlyEnvironmentallyFriendlyETicketsgreengreen livinggreen travelGreenLivingGreenTraveljunk mailJunkMaillaundrynatural resourcesNaturalResourcespaperlessplasticplastic bagsPlasticBagsreusable bagsreusable water bottlesReusableBagsReusableWaterBottlessaving water at homesaving water while travelingSavingWaterAtHomeSavingWaterWhileTravelingshopping bagsShoppingBagstravel mugstravel tipsTravelMugsTravelTipswater bottleswater conservationWaterBottlesWaterConservationSat, 21 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Budget Travel Zen: 10 Free/Donation-Based Yoga Studios In The US]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/04/budget-travel-zen-10-free-donation-based-yoga-studios-in-the-us/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/04/budget-travel-zen-10-free-donation-based-yoga-studios-in-the-us/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/04/budget-travel-zen-10-free-donation-based-yoga-studios-in-the-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

free yoga

Knotted shoulders... stiff necks... flight delay anxiety... pent-up aggression toward the armrest-hogger seated next to you on the plane. Travel certainly has its ways of winding you up, and there's nothing like a great yoga class to wind back down. But with trendy studios charging upwards of $25 per class, it can be difficult to find a practice that doesn't exceed your daily travel budget. These ten free or donation-based yoga studios allow you to pay what you can, and many of them come with a welcoming community that can help you stay grounded throughout your trip.

Asheville Community Yoga, Asheville, North Carolina
Based on the concept of Karma Yoga, Asheville Community Yoga is a non-profit organization offering a wide variety of free classes, including vinyasa, ashtanga, hatha, yin, restorative, core and various kinds of flow. The center also offers special workshops like "Spring Detox Hot Flow" and "Yoga for Healthy Knees." Though classes are free for those who truly can't afford to pay, a "Love Offering" of $5-15 per class is requested. 8 Brookdale Rd. Ste. A, Asheville.

Yoga to the People, New York, New York; Seattle, Washington; San Francisco and Berkeley, California
With nine studios in four cities, Yoga to the People believes that the transformative power of yoga should be available to everyone. Studios offer a mix of power vinyasa flow, traditional hot yoga and hot vinyasa classes. Suggested donation is $10 for vinyasa classes, while hot yoga is available for a flat fee of $8. Click here for locations.

Continue reading Budget Travel Zen: 10 Free/Donation-Based Yoga Studios In The US

Budget Travel Zen: 10 Free/Donation-Based Yoga Studios In The US originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ashevilleaustinbostonbudget-travelchicagodonation based yogaDonationBasedYogafree yogaFreeYogalululemonmiaminew yorkNewYorkphiladelphiaportlandsan franciscoSanFranciscotravel yogaTravelYogawashington dcWashingtonDcyogayoga studioYogaStudioWed, 04 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An off-season weekend getaway to Cape May, New Jersey]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/24/an-off-season-weekend-getaway-to-cape-may-new-jersey/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/24/an-off-season-weekend-getaway-to-cape-may-new-jersey/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/24/an-off-season-weekend-getaway-to-cape-may-new-jersey/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

off-season cape may

A few weeks ago I felt the urgent, desperate need to flee New York City.

There was something about the city's noise, its attitude, its frenetic pace that was driving me out of my mind. I felt caged in by the narrow tenement buildings of my Lower East Side streets. A taxi driver honked unnecessarily and I felt the irrepressible urge to slam on his front hood and yell "WHAT THE HELL DID YOU DO THAT FOR?"

It was clear that I needed a break.

My requirements were simple: a place outside of the city where I could unwind with a good book, a fireplace and maybe a bottle of Pinot Noir. My top priority was silence.

I found what I was looking for in Cape May, New Jersey. While in the summer it's a hotspot for vacationing tri-staters, in the winter it's close to deserted. I recruited my boyfriend, rented a car for the three-and-a-half hour drive and booked a room at Congress Hall, a charming Victorian hotel that once served as the summer residence for presidents Pierce, Buchanan, Grant and Harrison. With a friendly yellow exterior, a tiled lobby reminiscent of Havana and a daily schedule of events, the Congress Hall had the look of a coastal resort and the feel of a grown-up summer camp.

But most importantly, in a section of the hotel called the Brown Room, Congress Hall had a fireplace and in front of that fireplace were a scattering of leather armchairs and a bar with an extensive wine list. Behold, the resting place I'd been dreaming of.

Gallery: Off-Season Cape May

Bird's Eye View of Cape MayEarly Sunrise in Cape MayCape May Building FacadesFront Porch at the Inn of Cape MayInn of Cape May

Continue reading An off-season weekend getaway to Cape May, New Jersey

An off-season weekend getaway to Cape May, New Jersey originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 24 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blue pig tavernBluePigTavernbrown roomBrownRoomcape mayCapeMaycongress hallCongressHallfireplacejersey shoreJerseyShorenew jerseyNewJerseyoff-season cape mayOff-seasonCapeMayretreatunited statesUnitedStatesvictorianweekend getawayWeekendGetawaySat, 24 Mar 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A hot date at NYC's Russian & Turkish Baths]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/16/a-hot-date-at-nycs-russian-and-turkish-baths/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/16/a-hot-date-at-nycs-russian-and-turkish-baths/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/16/a-hot-date-at-nycs-russian-and-turkish-baths/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

nyc russian turkish baths

"So what are you doing tonight, Jimmy?"

As I listen to the question, I gasp for air. Steam clouds my eyes as sweat drips down my face. The smell of eucalyptus hangs heavy in the air.

"My wife, she thinks I'm gonna bring her flowers or take her out for sushi," Jimmy says, his voice thick with the swagger of a New York City accent.

"She thinks I'm gonna do one. I'm gonna do both. That's how you make her happy."

The men laugh while the moisture suffocates me. It's Valentine's Day, and I'm in a steam room at the Russian & Turkish Baths in downtown NYC.

Jimmy continues talking, discussing the finer points of his marriage ("Put it this way, when I go to work, at least I'm getting out of the house") and debating the merits of different falafel joints ("You can't say one is the best, that one is only best for you"). When he leaves the room, he drops a gem on two girls chatting about failed relationships: "Without love, we can't have peace."

The Russian & Turkish Baths are an East Village institution, and tonight it's crowded with couples, singles and regulars like Jimmy and his crew, all seeking a hot, steamy respite from the February cold. New Yorkers in varying levels of undress hop from room to room: the mild steam room, the pleasant redwood sauna room, the radiator-heated Turkish Room, the intensely scented Aromatherapy Room. A regular advises us to stay no longer than 15 minutes in each spot and take a plunge in the icy central pool between sessions, which is said to improve circulation.

Then, the regular points us to the largest room, the big Kahuna, the star of the bathhouse: the Russian Sauna room. Here, an oven filled with 20,000 pounds of stones cooked overnight emits a radiant heat that ranges from intense to unbearable. Before we head in, we listen to the splashing of water and whipping of platza oak leaves, and we watch as people emerge with bright red skin, soaked from head to toe and looking like they're about to have a heart attack. I brace myself.

Continue reading A hot date at NYC's Russian & Turkish Baths

A hot date at NYC's Russian & Turkish Baths originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bathhouselife lessonsLifeLessonsmanhattannew yorknew york cityNewYorkNewYorkCitynycnyc russian turkish bathsNycRussianTurkishBathsplatzarussian bathrussian turkish bathsRussianBathRussianTurkishBathssaunaspaturkish bathTurkishBathFri, 16 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Travel Smarter 2012: Travel tips for health and wellness]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/15/travel-tips-for-health-and-wellness-in-2012/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/15/travel-tips-for-health-and-wellness-in-2012/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/15/travel-tips-for-health-and-wellness-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Films like "Contagion" (which I very much enjoyed, and not just because Gwyneth Paltrow bites it within the first 10 minutes) instill a paranoia in the public consciousness about the hazards of air travel. It's true, however, that most public transportation is the equivalent of a mobile petri dish; one can't deny the inherent germiness lurking within. Subsequently, antibacterial hand gel is my new best friend.

There are other quasi-self-inflicted, travel-related maladies: neck and back pain, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), infectious disease, foodborne illness, stress--all of which kind of make you wonder why we travel in the name of relaxation, but I digress.

For many, myself included, part of the thrill of recreational travel is the element of risk involved, even if said danger involves nothing more than scarfing down a few street tacos. Regardless of why you travel, there are always new products on the market designed to make your trip more comfortable, or minimize your chances of getting sick. New research on the hazards and benefits of travel also keep us informed about what we can do to stay healthier on the road.

Below are my picks for making travel in 2012 a little less treacherous:

1. Reduce your risk of DVT
New studies show that choosing the window seat on a long flight can increase your chances of developing DVT. A theoretical DVT risk known as "economy class syndrome" (how's that for an "f-you" to airlines?) has been debated for years, and attributed to the lack of legroom in coach.

Now, however, the American College of Chest Physicians have determined that the real issue is that window-seat fliers have limited opportunities to walk and stretch their legs during lengthy flights, which can lead to potentially fatal blood clots that may travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). There are a number of factors that contribute to one's risk of DVT including age, preexisting health conditions, certain medications, and recent surgery, but even if you don't fit these criteria, you should always try to get out of your seat and/or do some stretching exercises and leg movements once an hour during long flights. In other words, consider the aisle the path to clot-free veins.

Continue reading Travel Smarter 2012: Travel tips for health and wellness

Travel Smarter 2012: Travel tips for health and wellness originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acaiantibacterialantimalarialsantioxidantsbad backBadBackbartonellabartonellosisbug bitesbug repellentBugBitesBugRepellentChiloedeep vein thrombosisDeepVeinThrombosisDVTeconomy class syndromeEconomyClassSyndromeEmergen-Cfree radicalsFreeRadicalsimmune boostersimmune supplementsImmuneBoostersImmuneSupplementslow back painLowBackPainmalariamalarial drugsMalarialDrugsmaquis berryMaquisBerrymeditationmosquitoesneck pillowsNeckPillowsrelaxationsandfliesStress Reductionstress reliefStressReductionStressRelieftickstravel appstravel diseasetravel disease preventiontravel wellnessTravelAppsTravelDiseaseTravelDiseasePreventionTravelSmarter2012TravelWellnessThu, 15 Mar 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Outside magazine's inaugural 'Travel Awards' winners]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/13/outside-magazines-inaugural-travel-awards-winners/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/13/outside-magazines-inaugural-travel-awards-winners/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/13/outside-magazines-inaugural-travel-awards-winners/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

travel awardsWith twenty-three categories and every continent up for consideration, the competition is fierce, but today Outside magazine released its picks for its new Outside Travel Awards. The winners include everything from travel companies and locales to cameras, suitcases, hotels, and apps, road-tested by those in the know (you know, those people).

Amongst the chosen is Seattle-based Mountain Madness, a mountain adventure guide service and mountaineering school, for its new Tsum Valley trek in Nepal, named "Best Trip in the Himalayas." Known in sacred Buddhist texts as the "Hidden Valley of Happiness," the Tsum Valley lies on the edge of the more visited Manaslu Conservation Area, which opened just three years ago to tourism.

Best travel company Geographic Expeditions (GeoEx) has "consistently taken travelers to the most remote regions of the world, from Everest's north side to Patagonia's glaciers to the far reaches of Papua New Guinea. This year its trailblazing new terrain with a 27-day trek to the north face of K2 ($11,450)." Bonus: "the price of every GeoEx trip includes medical assistance and evacuation coverage from Global Rescue and medical-expense insurance through Travel Guard." Not too shabby.

Also making the list: Myanmar is the "Best New Frontier;" Canon Powershot G-12 makes the "Best Camera;" the "Best New Adventure Lodge" is the Singular, outside of Puerto Natales, Patagonia, Chile; and the "Best Eco-Lodge" is the architectural marvel, The Mashpi in Ecuador.

[Photo credit: Flickr user tarotastic]

Outside magazine's inaugural 'Travel Awards' winners originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpine schoolsAlpineSchoolsAmazon BasinAmazonBasinbest gearbest tripsBestGearBestTripsbuddhismcameraschoosing a guideChoosingAGuideclimbing schoolsClimbingSchoolscultural travelCulturalTraveleco lodgesEcoLodgesEverestglacier climingGlacierClimingguide servicesguidesGuideServicesHimalayasindigenous cultureIndigenousCulturejungle lodgesJungleLodgesK2mountaineeringMt EverestMtEverestoutfittersoutside magazineOutsideMagazinePatagoniaPuerto NatalesPuertoNatalesSeattlesuitcasestravel appstravel companiestravel insuranceTravelAppsTravelCompaniesTravelInsurancetrekkingTsum ValleyTsumValleyTue, 13 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Galley Gossip: Even flight attendants deserve the right to choose pants]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/12/galley-gossip-even-flight-attendants-deserve-the-right-to-choos/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/12/galley-gossip-even-flight-attendants-deserve-the-right-to-choos/http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/12/galley-gossip-even-flight-attendants-deserve-the-right-to-choos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Asiana Airlines, flight attendant, stewardessIn a magazine I read years ago, a bigwig working for an international Asian carrier was quoted stating, "Passengers wouldn't dare yell at a flight attendant wearing a dress." It felt like a snide remark directed toward flight attendants in the United States who prefer to wear pants. Instead, it just demonstrated that he hadn't spent much time with U.S. passengers, who are non-discriminating. They are happy to yell both at flight attendants wearing dresses and passengers wearing dresses.

That's a quote from my book "Cruising Attitude: Tales of Crashpads, Crew Drama and Crazy Passengers at 35,000 feet." I'm only sharing it with you because there's been a lot in the news lately about Asiana Airlines. Its flight attendants are upset because they aren't allowed to wear pants (or even glasses!). Their union recently filed a complaint to the human rights commission of Korea. The airline claims the uniform was designed based on hanbok, the Korean traditional dress. The flight attendants understand the airline has an image it wants to pursue, but they also believe the most important function of their job is to assist passengers.

I prefer to wear my skirt over the uniform pants and dress. In fact, I've only worn the pants a handful of times during my career -- and I've been a flight attendant for 17 years! At first, it was the big bulky pleats with the high waist that was a problem for me. Now that the pleats are gone, the pants fit lower on the hips and the ankles aren't tapered, it's the material I have an issue with; it's so thin you can practically see through it!

Continue reading Galley Gossip: Even flight attendants deserve the right to choose pants

Galley Gossip: Even flight attendants deserve the right to choose pants originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airlinesairplanesAsiana AirlinesAsianaAirlinesFlight attendantsFlightAttendantsKoreaUniformsMon, 12 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wellness when traveling now more than a trip to the gym]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/wellness-when-traveling-now-more-than-a-trip-to-the-gym/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/wellness-when-traveling-now-more-than-a-trip-to-the-gym/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/wellness-when-traveling-now-more-than-a-trip-to-the-gym/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

wellness when travelingWhen we think of wellness when traveling, thoughts turn to the exercise facility at a hotel. Maybe a walk on a beach comes to mind or the extra exercise we might get naturally at a destination we visit. That's a good place to start but hotels are taking that idea a step or two further, defining wellness as just one part of a healthier lifestyle.

"Wellness is about more than exercising and living a healthier lifestyle, it's about a completely changed attitude toward the way most people live their daily lives - especially when they travel," says Dan Marcec, managing editor of Hotel Interactive.

Pointing out that wellness involves a balance of mind, body and spirit that will deliver a better, richer quality of life, Kristi Bonsack, director of wellness at Longboat Key Club & Resort, notes that "the medical field is about helping to cure disease, where as wellness is about preventing it, and there's a distinction. Being well is not about limiting life, but enhancing it."

Hotels, resorts, cruise lines and other lodging options are doing more to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Wellness programs are easy to access for travelers and are timed to meet their needs. The focus is on encouraging and empowering guests to find a balance of fitness, nutrition, education and relaxation, far more than merely providing directions to where the on-site fitness center is located.

Continue reading Wellness when traveling now more than a trip to the gym

Wellness when traveling now more than a trip to the gym originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Carnival Cruise LinesCarnival MagicCelebrity Cruisesfitness on the roadFitnessOnTheRoadHealthhotel wellnessHotelWellnessPrincess CruisesRoyal Caribbean Cruises Ltdtravel health and wellnessTravelHealthAndWellnesswellnesswellness hotel optionswellness when travelingWellnessHotelOptionsWellnessWhenTravelingSun, 26 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 sexy sites from around the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/10-sexy-sites-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/10-sexy-sites-from-around-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/15/10-sexy-sites-from-around-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

sex Forget castles, churches, fine art galleries, and history museums; the sites on this list celebrate the thing almost everyone has in common, sex. From penis parks to fertility shrines to bondage demonstrations, these sexy sites from around the world will make your trip a bit quirkier and your mind a bit filthier.

Haesindang Park
Samcheok, South Korea

Also known as Penis Park, Haesindang Park is full of totem-pole like penis carvings, which make for interesting hiking scenery, to say the least. The story behind the park is that there was once a virginal young woman who was engaged to be married. One day, she had her fiancée drop her off on Aebawi Rock in the sea to harvest seaweed while he did work on the beach. Sadly, a change in weather brought the woman to an untimely, tragic, and penis-less death. For years following the incident, the villagers were unable to catch fish and, thinking it was because of the dead woman, created a park in her honor where they created these carvings and held religious ceremonies. While many tourists may find this site quirky, it truly is a celebration of sex and penis worship.

Continue reading 10 sexy sites from around the world

10 sexy sites from around the world originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10+sexy+sites+from+around+the+world10sexysitesfromaroundtheworldbudget travelBudgetTravelnaughty+sexy+storynaughtysexystoryoff the beaten pathoff the radarOffTheBeatenPathOffTheRadarpenispenis parkpenis shrinePenisParkPenisShrinephallic statuesPhallicStatuessexsexy sitessexy+sitesexysiteSexySitesunique destinationsUniqueDestinationsWed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadling gear review: Clever Travel Companion secret-pocket tank top and underwear]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/09/gadling-gear-review-clever-travel-companion-secret-pocket-tank/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

travel clothing When going abroad, one of the biggest concerns for travelers is keeping their valuables safe from pick-pocketers. While fanny packs may be a decent option, they're also a dead giveaway that you're a tourist, making you an even easier target for getting ripped off. Then there are money belts, which are great fashion-wise, however, tend to get itchy and leave sweat marks when it's hot out. That's why I was excited when I found out about The Clever Travel Companion's line of "100% pick-pocket proof" clothing.

I tried a solid black tank top with hidden pockets, as well as a pair of underwear with pockets. To be honest, with or without the pockets I would definitely buy this tank top. It's not too tight, not too loose, made of 100% cotton, and actually feels like a second skin it's so comfortable. Even after walking around in it for an entire day it didn't stretch out or chafe my skin. The pockets make it that much better, as the zipper is literally right above your stomach, allowing for easy access to all of your important documents while still keeping them safe from thieves. You can wear it as an undershirt or as a shirt on its own.

underwear The underwear, which are actually more like boy-short bathing suit bottoms, are also extremely comfortable and made of 94% rayon and 6% spandex. When I first saw them I was a little worried they'd tug, slide up, or show through my pants; however, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they did none of these things. In fact, I forgot I was even wearing them. What I really like about this product is there are two zipper-pockets right in front, making it really easy to quickly get to your things while also eliminating the nervousness back-pockets cause of never really knowing if your stuff is still there.

The Clever Travel Companion has created an extremely useful yet comfortable set of clothing options for travelers, especially when you also think about the extra accessories you now won't have to pack. Secret-pocket tank tops and t-shirts cost $39.90, while the women's underwear costs $29.90. There are also products for men, including long johns ($39.90) and men's underwear ($29.90).

Gadling gear review: Clever Travel Companion secret-pocket tank top and underwear originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clever travel companionCleverTravelCompanionfashiongadling gear reviewGadlingGearReviewhealthpick-pockettingpickpockettingsafetytravel safetytravel scamesTravelSafetyTravelScamesThu, 09 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ten bizarre travel diseases that can ruin your next vacation]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/ten-bizarre-travel-diseases-that-can-ruin/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/ten-bizarre-travel-diseases-that-can-ruin/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/07/ten-bizarre-travel-diseases-that-can-ruin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

travel diseasesOn some level, catching a weird disease or picking up a little-known tropical parasite on your travels gives you bragging rights. "Look at me, I'm so hardcore!" Trust me, I've been there. But with Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR TB) making headlines worldwide, I'd like to remind fellow travelers that these diseases are no joke, and even those of us with healthy immune systems and access to industrialized medicine aren't impervious.

The reality is, you never know what you might be susceptible to. In my case, my doctors and medical research indicate that I may be lacking an enzyme that made me vulnerable to an extremely rare but serious tropical disease caused by the bacteria Bartonella bacilliformis, which causes Oroya Fever (and its precursor, Verruga Peruana). I'm still recovering from a three-year battle with the disease that has resulted in permanent organ damage because of a failure to protect myself against sand flies in the Amazon Basin region of Ecuador. Regular applications of DEET could have prevented that, as well as the various misdiagnoses of tuberculosis, histoplasmosis, and Hodgkin's lymphoma, but that's another story.

A lot of tropical and uncommon travel-related ailments are difficult to diagnose, and sometimes even more problematic to cure (if they don't kill you, first). Statistically, however, most travelers--even if they're in extremely sketchy parts of the world--will stay healthy if they take the necessary precautions. Having a trustworthy travel doctor is also helpful if you spend a lot of time in developing nations.

Continue reading Ten bizarre travel diseases that can ruin your next vacation

Ten bizarre travel diseases that can ruin your next vacation originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>African sleeping sicknessAfricanSleepingSicknessAmazon BasinAmazonBasinantibioticsbartonellaCDCciguateradiseasefatal diseaseFatalDiseasefilariasisfoodborne illnessFoodborneIllnesshistoplasmosisJapanese EncephalitisJapaneseEncephalitismalariamds roboticsMdsRoboticsmisdiagnosismosquito borne diseaseMosquitoBorneDiseaseOroya feverOroyaFeverparasitesparasitic diseaseParasiticDiseaseTBtravel disease preventiontravel innoculationstravel medicinetravel vaccinationstravel wellnessTravelDiseasePreventionTravelInnoculationsTravelMedicineTravelVaccinationsTravelWellnesstropical diseasetropical medicineTropicalDiseaseTropicalMedicinetsetse fliesTsetseFliestuberculosisvaccinationsvector borne diseaseVectorBorneDiseaseverruga peruanaVerrugaPeruanaTue, 07 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST