Travel state of mind for a volatile economy
In these volatile economic days, there are more than a few variables impacting travel. People are considering alternatives and business travel may be placed on hold. Forget the idea of flying in the front of the plane. Look at different alternatives.
Stronger dollar + bad economy = France travel boom?
France maintained its position as the world’s top destination last year, with 82 million foreign visitors setting foot on French soil — a four percent increase from the previous year. And now there’s another reason to visit Europe’s top tourist draw: a surging dollar.
Governor Spitzer, just one follow-up question …
There he was: Crossing the street at Central Park South and Fifth. In a suit, carrying a briefcase. With the same toothy look as always. Eliot Spitzer.
5 things about Paris even the Parisians don’t know
People who live in a city are sometimes the last to know what’s happening there. But this August, I’ve made it my mission to see what’s hot and new in Paris. Here’s what I discovered.
Americans are few and far between in Venice this August
Last year I spent the entire month of August in Venice. I’m back again this year, but only for two weeks. I take this time as an opportunity to step off the everyday world. Venice is different to say the least — no cars, no buses, lots of church bells, canals everywhere. No place else on this planet is quite the same.
Like the mythical Phoenix, Catalina is rising from the ashes
Catalina Island is making a comeback. Last spring, a contractor on the California island illegally used an open-flame torch to cut some steel cables. A spark set off a grass fire which quickly spread. 4,800 acres of chaparral, grassland and woods, parched by two years of drought, went up like a wad of newspaper.
Summer travel: worse than after 9/11?
When tourism officials compare anything to 9/11, you pay attention. When they say it’s worse than 9/11, you rethink your travel plans.
See you in … Samoa? Governor tries to jumpstart tourism
American Samoa’s tourism industry is at a standstill. So what’s an island nation with no visitors to do? Why, start a convention and visitors bureau, of course.
Hawaii volcano forces evacuation
Some 2,000 people were forced to leave Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Wednesday because of escalated levels of sulfur dioxide in the air.
Places to appreciate St. Paddy’s Day
Instead of drinking green beer (yick) today, flutist Noel Rice, director of the Academy of Irish Music and president of the Irish American Heritage center in Chicago, recommends some places to appreciate the contributions of Irish-Americans on this St. Patrick’s Day.