If you are looking for a country that often many westerner's cannot even identify its location on a map, a place where foreigners are generally treated with care and respect, a country that has not been polluted with tourism, the "land of smiles" and a country where you will rarely see foreign tourists, then consider a trip to Bangladesh. However note that tourism can be difficult for independent travelers. Airfare is generally fairly … [Read more...]
The ‘Amazing Race’ For The REST OF US!!!
COMPETITOURS is a team travel competition where 17 pairs of teams will converge upon Europe for a 2 week 5 country trip, earning points by accomplishing a series of fun, offbeat and interactive challenges while experiencing the diversity of Europe's people, places and culture. At stake is a grand prize travel spree with up to 40 nights at any Starwood property worldwide, plus up to 4 intl. airline tickets and up to $6500 spending money. … [Read more...]
Relishing the Mountains and Forests of the Dominican Republic
Not that I was not enjoying the pleasures of Playa Dorado -Puerto Plata's chief resort area. In spite of all the tourist facilities a traveller could ask for, from casinos, fine restaurants to enticing sands, I developed the urge to explore the nearby region in the Dominican Republic. After studying what the numerous organized tours offered, I decided on the Santiago- Jarabacoa excursion - a trip which included the city of Santiago, … [Read more...]
The Golden Age of Air Travel Returns!
Of all the airlines in this very first class battle, Singapore Airlines reigns supreme with the all new, double-decker Airbus A380 featuring a double bed that sleeps you and a companion in your own private suite. The 12 suites, created by yacht designer Jean-Jacques Coste, include fully closable doors for your absolute privacy, though no “mile-high” activities are theoretically permitted. How they will deal with any uncontrollable human passions … [Read more...]
Mendoza, Argentina – Transportation
Bus - The bus station is located about 15 to 20 minutes from the Plaza del Armas (the center of town). As with most bus stations, train terminals or airports be careful of your bags and belongings. These are typically high crime areas. We met a fellow traveler who was hanging around at the bus station when she was approached by a local - he pretended to ask her directions and she put her bag down to help him and when she looked back down, he and … [Read more...]
The Great Pillow Conspiracy – And Other Mysteries of the Cutback Crisis
As long as there have been planes in my life, there have always been a few inalienable rights I have taken for granted as an air traveler: My soda will be free, pillows will be present, and the interior climate of the plane will usually be twenty degrees cooler than wherever we just took off from, because Lord knows it's beastly hot outside when you're 3000 feet above ground, and that much closer to the sun. Well, newsflash: These rights have … [Read more...]
Los Angeles, CA – Exposition Park
Exposition Park is located across from USC and is one of LA's cultural hubs. This park is located off of the 110 freeway - well marked signs on the 110 indicate which exit to take. The Natural History Museum, California Science Center including the Air & Space building, the LA Coliseum (home to the 1932 and 1984 summer Olympics), the sunken rose garden, the African American Museum and other outdoor attractions are located here. Admission to … [Read more...]
Los Angeles, CA – Museums
We have personally visited & reviewed the following 130+ Los Angeles and Orange County museums. We spend a lot of time in the City of Angels, therefore this section is continuously updated with new and updated reviews as time permits. Note: Monday is the worst day to spend visiting museums in Los Angeles as by numbers, most of the museums are closed (but not all). The small museums often maintain very limited hours. African American … [Read more...]
Los Angeles, CA – Irvine
Irvine (current population over 230,000) takes its namesake from James Irvine, the founder of Irvine Ranch (along with two partners). This huge ranch was originally 185 square miles of land (about a 1/4 of the entire present day Orange County). Irvine's son, also named James - inherited the ranch and then founded The Irvine Company in 1894. After his death in 1947 the company was controlled by his Foundation and stock holders. Eventually it was … [Read more...]
Los Angeles, CA – Airports
LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, (LAX) We continue to spend more than our fair share of time in this airport (as we often use this as our International or domestic connecting hub). LAX is located 15 miles southwest from downtown Los Angeles off of the 405 on the western end of the 105 freeway. This is the primary domestic and International airport for the Los Angeles metropolitan area serving thousands of passengers daily. LAX is currently … [Read more...]