From Jaunted.com newsletter: Warning to smokers: Don't light up in public places when traveling through Spain anymore. The country has enacted a ban on smoking in enclosed public spots, including restaurants and bars.
If you get caught puffing away, it will cost you; a first-time offense carries a $40 fine, and repeat offenders will have to cough up as much as $134,000 after the third strike. However, enclosed spots aren't the only places where where your pack of cigs and lighter are prohibited. You also can get slapped with a fine for smoking in some outdoor areas as well, including playgrounds and near hospitals.
This is a big change for the formerly haze-filled country, which was one of the few last remaining Western European nations to allow smoking in public places. Plus, according to the Christian Science Monitor, government officials estimate that 35 percent of residents above 16 are regular smokers
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Monday, January 3, 2011
Buy Paris metro tickets on the other side
Did you know that if you're taking the EuroStar from London to Paris, you can buy Paris metro and RER tickets right at St. Pancras station before boarding? They are available in the departure lounge, and even on the train.
Friday, January 22, 2010
National World War II Museum, New Orleans
Today I visited the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, and can highly recommend it - and highly recommend that you plan to have lunch there.
Under the name of the National D-Day Museum, the facility opened on June 6, 2000. In 2003, it was designated the National WW II Museum by the U.S. Congress. There is now a second building across the street, with plans for yet further expansion. All through the buildings you see American veterans acting as volunteers.
Touring is self-guided, with the largest focus on D-Day preparation and operation. The first building has three floors, with large galleries and a good museum shop. Music everywhere is from the war period.
Across the street in a newer building are the Victory Theater, Stage Door Canteen and American Sector cafe. You first view a lead-in to the movie in an anteroom, then are taken into the Victory Theater with lovely leather seats, an enormous screen and high-tech effects. That total experience is about 45 minutes with shows every hour on the hour, is narrated by Tom Hanks, and very well done.
On Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoon, there is "Let Freedom Swing," a jazz and swing production in the Stage Door Canteen, with brunch or dinner before...and dancing. See http://bit.ly/StageDoorCanteen
The American Sector cafe is by local chef and restauranteur ("August" is the name of his New Orleans restaurant) John Besh, and is exceptionally good, I thought. Besh was named one of Food and Wine's "Top 10 Chefs of America" in 1999, and "Best Chef in the Southeast" by the James Beard Foundation in 2006. Filled with light and having female wait staff in typical 1940's 'diner waitress' attire (complete with the seam up the back of the hose), the food is American Classic with ample twists. I had a grilled vegetable sandwich with a side of 'Southern Greens," all served in a nice presentation and being quite tasty. People at the table next to me were raving about the Chicken and Dumplings. All desserts are house-made, too. This place is definitely worth a stop.
"The Road to Victory: A Vision for Future Generations" capital campaign has been launched to expand the current museum and will include four prominent exhibit pavilions which will portray all campaigns of the war on land, sea, and air, and each branch of the U.S. military services, and a public parade ground. This $300 million expansion project will quadruple the size of the existing facility and will add state-of-the-art programs and exhibit space, library and archives, and collections and conservation space.
There are myriad events at the museum. You can check the calendar here: http://bit.ly/MuseumEventCalendar
And here's your unknown fact for the day: at the beginning of WW II, America had the 18th largest armed force in the world....behind Romania.
The museum carries the address of 945 Magazine St., but actually faces onto Andrew Higgins St. between Magazine and Camp. It is open 7 days a week, 9A-5P, except for Mardi Gras Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. There is ample parking in a lot directly in front of the newer building, for $ 6. The American Sector restaurant is open Monday through Thursday 11 A - 9 P, Friday and Saturday 11 A - 11 P, closed on Sunday.
Under the name of the National D-Day Museum, the facility opened on June 6, 2000. In 2003, it was designated the National WW II Museum by the U.S. Congress. There is now a second building across the street, with plans for yet further expansion. All through the buildings you see American veterans acting as volunteers.
Touring is self-guided, with the largest focus on D-Day preparation and operation. The first building has three floors, with large galleries and a good museum shop. Music everywhere is from the war period.
Across the street in a newer building are the Victory Theater, Stage Door Canteen and American Sector cafe. You first view a lead-in to the movie in an anteroom, then are taken into the Victory Theater with lovely leather seats, an enormous screen and high-tech effects. That total experience is about 45 minutes with shows every hour on the hour, is narrated by Tom Hanks, and very well done.
On Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoon, there is "Let Freedom Swing," a jazz and swing production in the Stage Door Canteen, with brunch or dinner before...and dancing. See http://bit.ly/StageDoorCanteen
The American Sector cafe is by local chef and restauranteur ("August" is the name of his New Orleans restaurant) John Besh, and is exceptionally good, I thought. Besh was named one of Food and Wine's "Top 10 Chefs of America" in 1999, and "Best Chef in the Southeast" by the James Beard Foundation in 2006. Filled with light and having female wait staff in typical 1940's 'diner waitress' attire (complete with the seam up the back of the hose), the food is American Classic with ample twists. I had a grilled vegetable sandwich with a side of 'Southern Greens," all served in a nice presentation and being quite tasty. People at the table next to me were raving about the Chicken and Dumplings. All desserts are house-made, too. This place is definitely worth a stop.
"The Road to Victory: A Vision for Future Generations" capital campaign has been launched to expand the current museum and will include four prominent exhibit pavilions which will portray all campaigns of the war on land, sea, and air, and each branch of the U.S. military services, and a public parade ground. This $300 million expansion project will quadruple the size of the existing facility and will add state-of-the-art programs and exhibit space, library and archives, and collections and conservation space.
There are myriad events at the museum. You can check the calendar here: http://bit.ly/MuseumEventCalendar
And here's your unknown fact for the day: at the beginning of WW II, America had the 18th largest armed force in the world....behind Romania.
The museum carries the address of 945 Magazine St., but actually faces onto Andrew Higgins St. between Magazine and Camp. It is open 7 days a week, 9A-5P, except for Mardi Gras Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. There is ample parking in a lot directly in front of the newer building, for $ 6. The American Sector restaurant is open Monday through Thursday 11 A - 9 P, Friday and Saturday 11 A - 11 P, closed on Sunday.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Useful travel finance website for foreign travel
From Twitter today I learned of a very useful website about travel finances when abroad, credit card fees and more.. The 'credit card foreign transactions fee comparison" chart is especially a winner. I have a personal writeup that I provide my clients about use of ATM's and credit cards abroad, whether to exchange Euros in advance, etc., and this link will be a great addition.
There are also helpful links of all sorts on the site.
The general website is www.travelfinances.com and the chart mentioned is at http://bit.ly/37PXS0
There are also helpful links of all sorts on the site.
The general website is www.travelfinances.com and the chart mentioned is at http://bit.ly/37PXS0
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Vermont for the Leaves
My Texan son and his Yankee Bride were married in Connecticut on October 14, 1995...perfect for 'the leaves.' And I was lucky the week after to spend time at my co-in-laws ski house in Vermont. I fell in love with Vermont then, and have managed to go back twice. My most recent trip was October 3-9, 2009, and the 'color' timing was perfect. We spent three days in the Ludlow area, then headed way north to Montgomery, which is only 10 miles from the Canadian border. Driving Hazen's Notch Road/VT 58 was a special treat in a series of joyfully beautiful days. I also don't think it's possible to get a bad meal in Vermont, anywhere!
I'm sharing photos of some of the scenery with you. You do NOT have to sign in to view them. Simply click on "view photos," then on "play slideshow.' Enjoy the splendor!
http://tiny.cc/VermontLeaves
I'm sharing photos of some of the scenery with you. You do NOT have to sign in to view them. Simply click on "view photos," then on "play slideshow.' Enjoy the splendor!
http://tiny.cc/VermontLeaves
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Very cool map for New England Fall Foliage!
My son found this map online and sent it to me, since I'm 'going to see the leaves' in Vermont soon.
www.yankeefoliage.com/foliagemap
www.yankeefoliage.com/foliagemap
Monday, September 14, 2009
Top 10 World Cities for Pickpockets
This helpful reminder list comes from www.traveldailynews.com, an industry publication that I read regularly.
European cities run off with majority of top 10 and Spain snags two spots
TripAdvisor points out top 10 places worldwide to beware pickpockets
Monday, September 14, 2009
TripAdvisor, the world's most popular and largest travel community, announced ten cities to beware pickpockets, according to TripAdvisor travelers and editors, and five tips to avoid getting pickpocketed. Visitors would do well to watch their bags particularly in major European cities, where many popular outdoor attractions are tourist havens – and prime targets for purse-snatchers.
1. Fear and Loathing in Las Ramblas: Barcelona, Spain
One reviewer actually compares Barcelona pickpocketing to a generally practiced and accepted sport, like soccer. For those who'd rather stay off the field, take caution: Las Ramblas, the famous wide, pedestrian walkway full of life, music, and people at all hours of the day and night, is the perfect place to get your purse poached.
2. Rome Rascals: Rome, Italy
With its ancient buildings and astounding historical and cultural attractions, Rome is full of both tourists and incredible things to sightsee. With thousands of people admiring the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon, it's easy for a pickpocket to lift a camera or purse with a quick snip of scissors or some clever handiwork with a zipper. Travelers beware: 5 of Rome's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
3. Cash or Czech: Prague, Czech Republic
The famously beautiful Charles Bridge is lined with 30 baroque-style statues, as well as thousands of tourists who crowd its ancient stones each year, making a perfect recipe for pickpocketing. Before taking in the view of the Vltava River and the Prague Castle beyond, be sure valuables are strapped down. Travelers beware: 6 of Prague's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
4. Madrid Mischief: Madrid, Spain
El Rastro fleamarket and the crowded metro are often cited as spots where unfriendly pickpocket schemes can put a damper on a visit to this beautiful city. However, travelers should also beware that in museums (Madrid has many) pickpockets can be crafty as well, preying on distracted tourists.
5. Poaching in Paris: Paris, France
The City of Light draws enormous crowds from the base of the Eiffel Tower to the steps of Sacre-Coeur and everywhere in between. But enormous crowds can also be found below ground, in the city's metro system, where travelers should be especially cautious.
6. Italian Job: Florence, Italy
It is certainly easy to see why tourists would be distracted by the majestic beauty of Michelangelo's David and the other incredible and awe-inspiring works of art and pieces of history all around Florence. When admiring Michelangelo's creation, or at its replica in busy Piazza della Signoria, be alert that others may have their attention on your wallet.
7. Don't Cry for Me: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a vibrant and culturally rich city with much to offer, from the famed Teatro Colon to the city's many distinct neighborhoods. However, if while sightseeing you find you are suddenly covered in "bird droppings" (likely mustard) and a "friendly" local (likely a thief) happens to be standing by with napkins to help you clean up, beware. Travelers beware: 5 of Buenos Aires's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
8. No Dutch Treat: Amsterdam, Netherlands
It's easy to get carried away in Amsterdam with so many fun things to see and do, but don't be too taken in by the canals and the friendly, laid-back atmosphere – pickpocketers have been known to take advantage of countless tourists in this enchanting city.
9. Greek Tragedy: Athens, Greece
This legendary city features countless ancient monuments, many of which are outdoors. Whether visiting the Parthenon on the Acropolis, or anything else in this magnificent historic city, keep the bags close to the vest while your eyes admire the rest. Travelers beware: 5 of Athens's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
10. Hands On in Hanoi: Hanoi, Vietnam
The capital of Vietnam has its charming Old Quarter, littered with monuments and colonial architecture, and the city also features 600 temples and pagodas, making it a beautiful and unique place to visit, but also a place to stay alert for mischief. Travelers beware: 5 of Hanoi's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
TripAdvisor's Top 5 tips to avoid being pickpocketed
1. Never keep your wallet or valuables in your rear pocket, even if it buttons – it's by far the easiest target.
2. Beware of the distraction tactic. Dropping something near you, squirting something on you, or simply jostling you. Be on guard when in crowds, and secure your belongings.
3. Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups and it's not just the usual suspects. Be cautious with any strangers—sometimes people who don't look like they'd be a threat, such as children or the elderly, can be part of larger operations.
4. Stay alert in confined spaces and near passageways. Try to avoid standing near the doorways of trains as groups of pickpockets can rush at you when the doors open.
5. Before you set off on a trip, pare down the contents of your purse or wallet as the smaller the bulge, the less likely pickpockets are to covet it.
"Not always a basic 'lift-and-run' operation, expert pickpocketing can sometimes involve more complicated scams," said Christine Petersen, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. "Travelers need to be aware of all kinds of tricks meant to distract them from their belongings while enjoying popular world attractions."
European cities run off with majority of top 10 and Spain snags two spots
TripAdvisor points out top 10 places worldwide to beware pickpockets
Monday, September 14, 2009
TripAdvisor, the world's most popular and largest travel community, announced ten cities to beware pickpockets, according to TripAdvisor travelers and editors, and five tips to avoid getting pickpocketed. Visitors would do well to watch their bags particularly in major European cities, where many popular outdoor attractions are tourist havens – and prime targets for purse-snatchers.
1. Fear and Loathing in Las Ramblas: Barcelona, Spain
One reviewer actually compares Barcelona pickpocketing to a generally practiced and accepted sport, like soccer. For those who'd rather stay off the field, take caution: Las Ramblas, the famous wide, pedestrian walkway full of life, music, and people at all hours of the day and night, is the perfect place to get your purse poached.
2. Rome Rascals: Rome, Italy
With its ancient buildings and astounding historical and cultural attractions, Rome is full of both tourists and incredible things to sightsee. With thousands of people admiring the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon, it's easy for a pickpocket to lift a camera or purse with a quick snip of scissors or some clever handiwork with a zipper. Travelers beware: 5 of Rome's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
3. Cash or Czech: Prague, Czech Republic
The famously beautiful Charles Bridge is lined with 30 baroque-style statues, as well as thousands of tourists who crowd its ancient stones each year, making a perfect recipe for pickpocketing. Before taking in the view of the Vltava River and the Prague Castle beyond, be sure valuables are strapped down. Travelers beware: 6 of Prague's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
4. Madrid Mischief: Madrid, Spain
El Rastro fleamarket and the crowded metro are often cited as spots where unfriendly pickpocket schemes can put a damper on a visit to this beautiful city. However, travelers should also beware that in museums (Madrid has many) pickpockets can be crafty as well, preying on distracted tourists.
5. Poaching in Paris: Paris, France
The City of Light draws enormous crowds from the base of the Eiffel Tower to the steps of Sacre-Coeur and everywhere in between. But enormous crowds can also be found below ground, in the city's metro system, where travelers should be especially cautious.
6. Italian Job: Florence, Italy
It is certainly easy to see why tourists would be distracted by the majestic beauty of Michelangelo's David and the other incredible and awe-inspiring works of art and pieces of history all around Florence. When admiring Michelangelo's creation, or at its replica in busy Piazza della Signoria, be alert that others may have their attention on your wallet.
7. Don't Cry for Me: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a vibrant and culturally rich city with much to offer, from the famed Teatro Colon to the city's many distinct neighborhoods. However, if while sightseeing you find you are suddenly covered in "bird droppings" (likely mustard) and a "friendly" local (likely a thief) happens to be standing by with napkins to help you clean up, beware. Travelers beware: 5 of Buenos Aires's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
8. No Dutch Treat: Amsterdam, Netherlands
It's easy to get carried away in Amsterdam with so many fun things to see and do, but don't be too taken in by the canals and the friendly, laid-back atmosphere – pickpocketers have been known to take advantage of countless tourists in this enchanting city.
9. Greek Tragedy: Athens, Greece
This legendary city features countless ancient monuments, many of which are outdoors. Whether visiting the Parthenon on the Acropolis, or anything else in this magnificent historic city, keep the bags close to the vest while your eyes admire the rest. Travelers beware: 5 of Athens's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
10. Hands On in Hanoi: Hanoi, Vietnam
The capital of Vietnam has its charming Old Quarter, littered with monuments and colonial architecture, and the city also features 600 temples and pagodas, making it a beautiful and unique place to visit, but also a place to stay alert for mischief. Travelers beware: 5 of Hanoi's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
TripAdvisor's Top 5 tips to avoid being pickpocketed
1. Never keep your wallet or valuables in your rear pocket, even if it buttons – it's by far the easiest target.
2. Beware of the distraction tactic. Dropping something near you, squirting something on you, or simply jostling you. Be on guard when in crowds, and secure your belongings.
3. Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups and it's not just the usual suspects. Be cautious with any strangers—sometimes people who don't look like they'd be a threat, such as children or the elderly, can be part of larger operations.
4. Stay alert in confined spaces and near passageways. Try to avoid standing near the doorways of trains as groups of pickpockets can rush at you when the doors open.
5. Before you set off on a trip, pare down the contents of your purse or wallet as the smaller the bulge, the less likely pickpockets are to covet it.
"Not always a basic 'lift-and-run' operation, expert pickpocketing can sometimes involve more complicated scams," said Christine Petersen, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. "Travelers need to be aware of all kinds of tricks meant to distract them from their belongings while enjoying popular world attractions."
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