Travelurge: Travel like it's Hot

My Sky Pool Photos

2009-07-27T16:55:00.000-07:00

Hundred Dollar Hotels

2009-06-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

Wow have you seen this list?! Yahoo! just released a list of 20+ hotels that are offering specials for rooms UNDER $100. Change is good—but change from a hundred dollar bill at check out is awesome. Not to mention, these are not just interstate motels in the Midwest but tourist hubs like Orlando, Vegas and Kissimmee. The prices range from $91.00 all the way down to $23.00 (that's less than a tank of gas!). This added with the fact that airlines have hit their lowest fare in the last decade makes this truly s great time to travel. For the hotel list, heck out the link below:

Yahoo! Hotel Deals

"Its On" Southwest Launches New Ad Campaign

2009-06-15T11:15:00.000-07:00

Here is the raw footage for Southwest's new ad campaign called "Grab your bag. It’s On." So, call your mom, because its on-

2009-04-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

World's 1st Airborn Hotel

2009-04-01T12:01:00.000-07:00

According to the Web site: "Experience the adrenaline rush of taking off and flying high in the largest helicopter ever produced.

The Hotelicopter features 18 luxuriously-appointed rooms for adrenaline junkies seeking a truly unique and memorable travel experience."

Feel like pampering yourself? Visit the SkySpa, where you can indulge in a deep tissue/shiatsu/myofascial massage, get a manicure and pedicure, or touch up those highlights! Or perhaps you want to take a soak in the jacuzzi or indulge in our dry sauna. You can even hit the high pressure tanning bed. Want to mingle with the other guests? Hit the blackjack/ping-pong table, do a yoga class, or visit the tea garden!

...April fools... Millions were tricked by an April Fool's Day scam that showed footage of what was billed as the world's first airborn hotel -- a massive converted helicopter that housed a handful of hotel-style rooms. The "hotelicopter" appeared in a viral advertisement that encouraged would-be patrons to "elevate your stay." The hotelicopter hoax spawned facebook groups and drew the interest of millions.

Free nuts and a SHOW!!!

2009-03-19T14:03:00.000-07:00

I would like to book this guy on my next international flight. He has to be more entertaining than the latest Diane Lane flick.
What! What! Travel like its Hot!

Travel Sites

2009-03-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

Here is a hilarious new site with a unique view of 'lodging.' The sites mantra is why pay for a hotel, plan the perfect airport stay. The site claims that some airports are actually better than local lodging and to top it off - IT'S FREE!
Your friends and family may look at you funny when you return with your airport stories, but that's only part of the fun. Whether you sleep in an airport by choice or get stranded due to some airline mess-up, let sleepinginairports.com help you in your time of need.
With reviews of over 5,800 airports and growing, the site list top rated airports (like Singapore), airports to hate (Paris- Charles de Gaulle) and other information. So, "sit back... get out your travel itinerary and discover which airports you can sleep in and those which you should avoid altogether during your next trip."

Irish America: Happy Paty's Day

2009-03-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day! Go out and celebrate, we are all Irish on this day. But where are some of the best cities to celebrate in? Following the fine drinking traditions of my blog, I have done count downs and listed suggestions for Madri Gras (partying in the French Quarter) and Cinco De Mayo (renting a room at a Cabo Hotel), so I think it’s time to do a list of great American cities to get your ‘blarney on.’

This is a shot from the one of the most widely known Saint Patrick’s Day celebration taking place in Chicago. This is one of the most recognized symbols of the day. Chicago has a large Irish immigrant population and some of the best Paty’s Day bars (if you can't make it to Dublin).
Other strong contenders for great St. Patrick Days are Boston and New York.
Massachusetts boasts 24% of their residents who are of Irish ancestry. This compares with a rate of 12 percent for the nation as a whole.
But the world’s first St. Patrick’s Day parade occurred on March 17, 1762, in New York City. This city is also the location for the 5 Corners, an infamous area for Irish immigrant gangs. NYC has a long history of immigration and saw a major increase in its Irish population after the potato famine.
Other cities that are great to note are Mount Gay-Shamrock, W.Va., Shamrock, Texas, Shamrock Lakes, Ind., and Shamrock, Okla.
And how about Mobile, Alabama. It mightnot be a heavily Irish population, but they sure do have the spirit! Apparently, in the last few years, there have been Leprechaun sightings… what could be more Irish then that. --I am sorry, I could not resist, but you have to watch this video -after you have had enough Genius.

Mexico Travel Tips and Safety for Sping Breakers

2009-03-09T17:32:00.001-07:00

For many younger travelers this might be the first time you have ever been to Mexico or a foreign country. Here are some things to know provided by the US department of Sate.

Many college students travel during school breaks. While most students will have a safe and enjoyable adventure, for some the trip will become a nightmare with a serious impact on the rest of their lives. Students planning travel should want to review http://www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/safety/safety_2836.html.

Another good piece of advice is to periodically call home to assure family members of your safety and inform them of your whereabouts. It is important to remember, whether you travel to Mexico, you are entering a foreign country and are subject to their laws, customs and regulations of Mexico.

"Mexican law can impose harsh penalties for violations that would be considered minor in the United States, and U.S. citizenship in no way exempts one from full prosecution under the Mexican criminal justice system. If U.S. citizens find themselves in legal trouble, they should contact the closest U.S. Consulate, U.S. Consular Agency, or the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City."

"Alcohol is involved in the vast majority of arrests, accidents, violent crimes, rapes, and deaths suffered by American students on Spring Break. "

"Warning flags on beaches should be taken seriously. If black or red flags are up, do not enter the water. Strong undertow and rough surf are common along beaches throughout Mexico, especially on the Pacific coast, and drownings have occurred when swimmers have been overwhelmed by conditions."

Registration with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate (in the country you are visiting) makes your presence and whereabouts known, in case it is necessary for a consular officer to contact you in an emergency.

At the end of the day, remember to be smart, have fun and be safe. If you have any question this information was gained from: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/spring_break_mexico/spring_break_mexico_2812.html

How to fly in a greener fashion

2009-02-23T15:58:00.000-08:00

After the environmentally friendly blog I wrote earlier on the Eco Resort, La Cocotera. I wanted to contiue on the the topic of green travel. Starting with flying, unfortunately this might this may not be the most eco-friendly of endeavors (to put it mildly), I found in another blog that wrote two San Francisco based companies this earth day will be providing their chic "Plastic Bag Rehab" tote filled with their easy-on-the-planet, easy-on-the-eyes cleaning products to every passenger on Virgin America's flights this Earth Day, April 22nd. And for every flier, Virgin and Method will donate $3 to the California Parks Foundation. All the while, sit back and relax in front of a seatback touch-screen that will include viewings of Al Gore's "Climate in Crisis" TED talk (a must see!) among other green broadcasts. Don't forget to offset your flight, though. I use SavingSpecies.org or Terrapass.com to minimize ones impact. Leave your footprint in the sand not a carbon footprint. Now, kick back and enjoy the illuminated ride. For more tips look up abc News Travel.

Architecture from my favorite places

2009-02-23T14:34:00.000-08:00

I just found an interesting article counting down the 80+ of the strangest and most fantastic buildings. You can check out the complete list here: http://www.instantshift.com/2009/02/19/80-strange-and-fantastic-buildings-architecture/

I was surprised at the amount of these buildings that I have been fortunate enough to see and experience. Of these, these are a few of MY personal favorites from the list and a few others that need mentions.

New York, NY
Aqua Building, Chicago

Kansas City Public Library (Missouri, USA)

Fashion Show Mall (Las Vegas, USA)

Luxor, Las Vegas

Gherkin Building (London, UK)

UCSD Geisel Library (San Diego, California, USA)

Great arche of defense (Paris, France)

Bean, Chicago

You like that? there here are some great designs for the futrure: http://weburbanist.com/2008/07/08/15-more-future-wonders-of-green-technology/

Hotels offer Reemployment Act '09 and Hotel Stimulus Package

2009-02-20T12:02:00.000-08:00

Oh, how stimulating! Here are some tips on how to live like a CEO!

Reemployment Act of 2009
In this economic hardship, Herman Seidell has come up with two programs to benefit future guests of MacCallum House Inn and Restaurant: one provides free rooms and a private job fair for 15 guests who are unemployed and the second gives awards for just booking a room online the next 10 days at maccallumhouse.com/.
Seidell has created the "MacCallum House Reemployment Act of 2009."
The first 15 who have lost their jobs in the last six months, and who call 800 609-0492, will get a free room on Thursday, March 26th, 2009 or you can book a room in the next 10 days, February 18-28, and he spins his "wheel of fortune" filled with various prizes.
For rules and more information check: http://www.hotelsmag.com/article/CA6638712.html?industryid=47565

Stimulus Packages for PB
Cabo Hotel, Pueblo Bonito, is offering a stimulus package to all seven resorts. Effective February through December 2009, Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas’ “Stimulus Package” will provide various added value incentives and discounts. Offers will be applicable during a specific window of time. Travel specials include, but are not limited to, lowered rates, Kids Stay Free, Kids Eat Free, spa credits and free night stays. Some months’ rates could be as much as half off.
See the Pueblo Bonito Blog for more details: http://mypueblobonito.com/?p=254

Luxury Bailout in Las Vegas
"Las Vegas Bailout Special- Free 3 Days 2 Nights in a Las Vegas luxury hotel suite!"
This site is offering guests who buy four show tickets two nights in a suite free. However, the hotel choices are so-so. If you want to be on the strip, settle for a studio or regular room. But with deals from show tickets to golf in 15 different casino choices it is definitely worth a look. For the special offer, go to http://www.luxurylasvegassuites.com/

Have you ever thought: why not by Train?

2009-02-09T15:21:00.000-08:00

I just saw this and I want to do it?! i think it would be a unique opportunity to see the country's landscape through a classical environment by experiencing it on train. Its a more classical and grounded approach to traveling but you do get to see so many terrains and experiences up close that are missed by planes and unnavigable by car.

check out this link: http://www.orient-express.com/web/vsoe/journeys/3_958.jsp

It just seems fun (in a Harry Potter at Hogwarts Station sort of way). Depart from Venice for an overnight on board the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. The next day, the train travels through Austria into the Czech Republic, arriving in Prague where you will spend two nights. Continue your journey through the Czech Republic and into Germany. After departing Paris the following morning travel to the French coast and cross the Channel, before boarding the British Pullman for your journey to London. Oh, if only I had US$3810 laying around.

Crazy Travels!

2009-02-09T12:22:00.001-08:00

Here are some very 'unique' locations that I stumbled across on the internet:

Yemen, Socotra

Any others? let me know

Eco Resort

2009-01-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

Things are changing. Right now, the wasteful luxuries that so many travelers once over indulged in have gone to the wayside. In this current day and age, new trends have risen up- responsibility, environmental concern and awareness of personal ramifications. I think that many are feeling a sense of new world accountability. With people either being more cautious or more environmentally aware I have been inspired by some new environmentally friendly hotels.

I found this beautiful eco resort in El Salvador that is in one of the most miraculous tropical locations, unspoiled by humans. La Cocotera is really a special place, here, you can help release baby turtles and help endangered parrots.
According to their Web site:
"La Cocotera was built following the “green leaf” system utilized by the Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST). Our hotel features:

Solar energy
Energy saving light bulbs/ kinesthetic power flashlights
Biological (not chemical) waste water recycling treatment plant
Environmentally safe products, shampoos and soaps
All cleaning products are environmentally safe
Recycling of plastics, paper and glass
Ionization pool filtration

... [This is] an all-inclusive eco lodge far away from the crowded beaches, and allows you to be a conscientious consumer and tourist. "

Wedding Fever

2009-01-20T11:29:00.000-08:00

So, a second pair of my friends got proposed to over the weekend –CONGRATS! With all this marriage buzz, it has me in a wedding state of mind. I have always been in love with the idea of a theme wedding or destination wedding. After some research here are some fun ideas that I wanted:

Boys will be boys:
If you’re two sports fans or a marrying a tom-boy then this is an idea. You can simply barrow your favorite team’s colors and use them to help build your wedding theme. This is also a fun opportunity to create sporting invitations, decor, favors, cake design, and food choices. JUST DO IT, it is your reception and meant to be a celebration.

History repeats itself:
I am also entertained by the idea of a vintage wedding. Is the Victorian age inspiring you? How about the mobster and speakeasy twenties or the glamorous fifties?

With the Victorian age, you could plan a wedding around a formal Victorian garden or a bridal party with parasols, lace gloves, beautiful blooms, and vintage-look invitations are definitely needed for this theme era. My favorite though, is the 1920s, with roaring speakeasies, decadence, slim dresses/pin striped suites, and pearl necklaces. Fun-loving, this era gave us some of the best of men’s fashion and jazz music.

Walks on the Beach:
My all time favorite is the beach wedding. Wouldn’t it be amazing to exchange vows as a destination wedding Puerto Vallarta? There are some great locations for a destination wedding in Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta or Cabo. Themed with beautifully light pastels and breezy clothes, what could be better than paradise with the love of your life and closest friends and family.

For more ideas I would suggest theunbride.net, the offbeatbride.com, and theknot.com.

HOTTEST SUNGLASSES EVER!!!!!

2008-12-12T10:31:00.000-08:00

So here you, all you pool side divas...

Sunglasses by Anna Ter Haar were made for the fashion show of Klavers van Engelen fall/winter 08-09, showed on the Milan fashion week:

Attention Grabbing Anonymity glasses! Great title... inspired by JT, pick up a pair of these culturally clever glasses.

There are a pair of shades made famous by another mega star musician. Rapper/singer Kayne West put shuttered shades on the map and proved his status in street fashion.

Sunglasses designer Jeremy Scott created a line of futuristic (Tron-esque) glasses that have garnered a lot of attention this year by breaking the mold of rounded shades.

These are the Nannini Flats... weird name, cool glasses. These fold up flat and unfold for a stylish and compact shades.

It's time to blend more modern technology with the fabulousness of freewheeling fashion. Hopefully some day these 1GP MP3 and Bluetooth Sun glasses will be cute (along with being useful) but i like the concept so i am giving them a place here.

Have any sunny suggestions? Feel Free to post some or comment!

Crazy Beautiful Picture of Cabo...

2008-12-11T16:17:00.000-08:00

Hot huh?

Destination Weddings

2008-12-10T14:56:00.000-08:00

This week in Travel: As seen in my previous post, MTV is really all about destination weddings right now. It just aired a True life: I’m having a Destination Wedding. This was the usual drama that ensues with two young people tying the knot. I am kind obsessed with the whole traveling and weddings idea too. Sticking with the MTV theme of marriages abroad, the Channel will be airing the episode of the Hills with Heidi and Spencer’s Destination wedding in Cabo.

Does any one care?

It seems less “on a whim” and more like a heavily scripted stunt written by producers. I thought you were only allowed 15 minutes of fame, how come they are still around… maybe when watching this excruciating couple time just stands still. It sure feels like they have been trying to clutch the spot for the last hundred thousand years- along with Spencer’s creepy flesh colored beard.

Speaking of Weddings and on the topic of Pop Culture (and for all you fashionistas) Gabriella New York Salon is retailing very special designed and produced wedding dresses by Vivienne Westwood. You guessed it, the one made famous by Carry from Sex in the City Movie. It's the only place in New York you can get the dress. There is a limit and they are priced at a reasonable $1,500. The dress is altered to be shorter than the one in the movie, but that makes it perfect for beach ware at your own celeb destination wedding in Cabo. ;-)

What a question

2008-12-09T16:10:00.000-08:00

Being new I am still finding my way. What do you like more for a title?

travelurge

travelopolis

travelpologie

travelorg

MTV True Life: I'm Having a Destination Wedding

2008-12-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

Did anyone see this over the weekend, it was crazy. What did you think?The show followed around 2 couplesfor thier Destination Wedding. This is what the Press release said:

"You don't have to be a celebrity to get married like one! Are you adding a twist to your big day, by tying the knot thousands of miles from your home? Is there something cultural/spiritual/emotional tying you to the spot you've chosen? Have you always been the adventurous type and could only imagine having a wedding somewhere completely off the beaten path?

Whether you're getting married in a tropical area such as the Caribbean, Mexico, or Hawaii or if you've decided to celebrate in Europe, Asia, Africa or even a domestic seaside location we want to hear from you. Make your wedding even more extraordinary by having MTV document your journey.

True Life employs first-person narrative storytelling to provide a window into the lives of young Americans. To date, the series has explored topics as complex as living with a disorder such as autism or obsessive-compulsive disorder; living in extreme poverty; and being deployed to and returning from military service in Iraq.

From the MTV Website: “Since its initial episode in 1998, MTV's award-winning True Life documentary series has told remarkable real-life stories of young people and the unusual subcultures they inhabit. Whether documenting the lives of gay marriage activists, individuals dealing with obesity, or teens in high school--the True Life series tells its stories solely from the varied voices and points-of-view of its characters--putting the series in the unique position of reflecting the state of youth culture at any given moment. “

A follow up to our enormously successful True Life: I’m Getting Married, True Life: I’m Having a Destination Wedding will focus on the growing trend of young people choosing to get married thousands of miles from home. Formerly for celebrities and the ultra-rich, these weddings have become more accessible to couples looking to add a “twist” to their big day. Production will begin in the first week of July, with a tentative air date in September 2008. The crew will be following these couples at their job and home (personal life), through the planning process and all the way down the aisle.

Finding cheap flights made easy

2008-12-09T15:22:00.000-08:00

This is something that everybody wants to know or find out. Here is a great post on uncovering cheap flights from: http://www.findcheapairfares.org

These days it’s not that hard to find discount airfares. With just a little help of the Internet and little time on your hands you can find multiple web sites that offer discounted rates. With even a little more work you can dig a little deeper and find the absolute best price possible. In order to help you along, the following are some methods to get you discount airfares:

Do your research. There are a lot of offers available only on the Internet if you look closely visit several sites that offer discount air travel deals and use popular search engines to focus in on the best sites to help you.

Sometimes doing all of your research online isn’t enough. It certainly doesn’t hurt to call up a travel agent and and ask them straightaway what you would expect to pay for a particular destination.

Traveling in groups. There are a lot of travel agents out there that will offer discounts to groups of people.

Make sure to travel in the off-season. All airlines offer discounts in the off-season months and you can benefit by traveling to these times.

Use your research as leverage. When comparing deals and talking to people see if they can match the price or lower. Use what you have researched

For more information on this story read up on: http://www.findcheapairfares.org/2007/12/07/get-cheap-airfares-quick-and-easy/

Hello World

2008-12-09T15:21:00.000-08:00

this is the first post! oh so exciting