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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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THE FINAL SEASON OF ANTHONY BOURDAIN'S 'PARTS UNKNOWN' WILL AIR THIS FALL

By JOE MCGAULEY @jwmcgauley It's been almost two months since Anthony Bourdain took his life, and while countless remembrances of the beloved former cook-turned-author and globetrotting TV host have poured in ever since, the world will soon be able to say one last goodbye. CNN announced it will release the final season of Bourdain's hit series Parts Unknownthis fall, including several episodes that were in the works at the time of his death, one featuring interviews with the show's cast and crew, and a finale dedicated to his influence on fans and friends around the world. The final season will wrap up with new episodes that Bourdain filmed in Kenya, Manhattan's Lower East Side, the Big Bend area of Texas, the Asturias region of Spain, and Indonesia, according to the Los Angeles Times. However, the Kenya episode, which follows a trip the late star took to the African country with fellow CNN host W. Kamau Bell, is the only one that was finished at the time of his death. The other episodes will be pieced together using footage that was already captured and whatever follow-up interviews were necessary to complete them. “Each one will feel slightly different depending on what’s gathered in the field,” Amy Entelis, the executive vice president of talent and content at CNN said in an interview with the paper. “They will have the full presence of Tony because you’ll see him, you’ll hear him, you’ll watch him. That layer of his narration will be missing, but it will be replaced by other voices of people who are in the episodes.” Another one of the final episodes will feature cast and crew discussing the making of the series pieced together with outtakes and behind-the-scenes footage from the archives. The series finale will be more of an homage to Bourdain and his legacy, devoted to how he affected the world by utilizing fan reactions and interviews with sidekicks and friends, according to Entelis. Parts Unknown was a cornerstone CNN Original Series, and commanded the highest ad rates of any series on the network, but that doesn't mean they're looking to reboot it with a different host, because, well, that would be impossible. That said, they're looking into finding a way to extend his legacy in one way or another with different programming. “What Tony did was inimitable,” Entelis told the LA Times. “What we want to do is find a show that captures what Tony is all about. It might be a very different show and look nothing like Parts Unknown.” There's no word yet on the exact premiere date of the last season, but if you're ever jonesing for some Bourdain content on your TV, you can always revisit favorite Parts Unknown moments on Netflix, which is still streaming all 11 seasons of the series, and plans to continue to do so for months to come. Read the full article

#anthonybourdain #cnn #FinalSeason #partsunknown

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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How to Trek Colombia's Lost City (La Ciudad Perdida)

Hidden in Colombia's deliciously green jungles lies an enticing secret. A secret unknowingly swallowed up by forest for 1,200 years, speckled with gold, jewels, and human sacrificial sites. Its ruins are 650 years older than Machu Picchu, and have only been publicly accessible in the last few decades. Known as the Ciudad Perdida or the Lost City, this ancient site is one of Colombia's most remarkably concealed gems. Reaching these epic ruins is no simple feat. River crossings, steep hills, and tropical heat make the four day hike here a gruelling one. Despite being accessible to tourists for the past 10+ years, the Lost City is still surprisingly under-visited. One thing is for certain, those who make it here are left in awe.

Colombia's Lost City: An Overview

The Lost City was built by the Tairona people who first created this settlement in 800 A.D. Spanning over 12,000 square meters (129,167 square feet), the city was once home to an estimated 2,000-4,000 people in its peak. This is thought to have been the Tairona's biggest city, and was the epicentre of economic and political activity. The Tairona were an advanced civilization, with a political structure and impressive engineering skills. Evidence of the latter lies in the complex bridges and drainage systems built to ensure the city withstood heavy rains. Stone-lined paths and staircases snake about the terraces, storehouses, ceremonial and feasting areas. All of this is but a fraction of what we know existed here. Only about 10% of the Lost City has been uncovered, further cloaking these ancient grounds in mystery.

The Tairona were skilled craftsmen and spiritual people. They practiced meditation and made symbolic offerings. Shamans were important to maintain natural order, sometimes even making human sacrifices to do so. Stunning gold jewelry, intricate gold idols, and colorful beadwork have all been uncovered throughout the ruins. The Tairona are said to have worn feathered headdresses, shawls, and jeweled chest ornaments. Today, much of these artifacts can be seen in museums throughout Colombia. I highly recommend doing this, as the detail and intricacy is astounding, further enriching one's understanding of the civilization behind the Lost City. The Museo del Oro (Gold Museum) in Santa Marta, as well as in Bogota, both have fantastic collections.

Like many indigenous South American populations, the Tairona were wiped out with the colonization of the Spaniards, most likely due to smallpox. Their disappearance left their entire city to be swallowed up by the forest for centuries. Today, their nearest descendants, known as the “Kogi”, continue to live traditionally in huts without electricity or running water. You may encounter the Kogi people while entering the Lost City, as we did.

The Lost City trek: What to expect

Swimming holes, thick and humid jungles, and breathtaking views are found throughout the hike. The grande finale – entering the Lost City – is an anticipation-filled experience in itself. After three days of steep trekking through humid forests, you reach its entry point – a steep stone stairway. It's comprised of 1,350 stones, built and once trodden on by the Tairona themselves. Farmers, potters, curious children, and even shaman would have once stepped foot here. It is magical to retrace their steps. After a steep venture up, the lushness of the Lost City is revealed. Much of the hand-carved stone terraces, which once housed huts and structures, are engrossed in moss and plants. It is eery, beautiful, and reminiscent of other nature-engulfed ruins like Machu Picchu. The Lost City is further explored on foot with your guide who will explain various areas of significance. That includes sacrificial sites, stones with engravings, and the various terraces and plazas. Besides the spectacular ruins, the scenery en route to the Lost City is majestic. Sweeping mountain views, colourful butterflies, sputtering waterfalls, and gorgeous rock pools (which you can dive into) are just some of what's in store. Hike difficulty The Lost City trek is a 44km hilly hike that takes 4-6 days to complete (round-trip). The journey begins with a bumpy 4WD up a mountain to the start of the hike. There is only one trail in and out to the Lost City, meaning that you will retrace the route. The first three days of the tour are generally inclining (approaching the Lost City), and the last two are declining as you return to the start. The only difference in tour duration is the amount of hiking completed each day. We did the 4-day (shortest) option and found it was fine, and this is a popular option for travellers. In terms of difficulty, this is a challenging hike. General fitness is required, and there are steep hills throughout. Ultimately, an elevation of 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) is reached. Climate-wise, it is hot, humid, muddy, and buggy. There are several river crossings (i.e. you will literally walk through rivers), so you will get wet. If being hot, fatigued, sweaty, dirty, and bug-bitten is a suitable trade-off for you in exchange for incredible landscapes and ancient ruins, then you'll find this hike well worth it (we certainly did!).

Sunrise over the mountains on the trek Accommodation, food & water Accommodation throughout the hike is humble. There are small open-air huts with dirt floors, simple bunk beds, and hammocks inside, both of which have mosquito nets. Most tours have 10-12 people, so the sleeping area is small and quiet (imagine a rustic hostel dorm set in the jungle). Cold showers are available at the camp on the second day, though river swims are available on day 1 of the hike. Food is provided on all tours, which is usually three meals and two snacks per day. It is home cooked Colombian food, such as stews with rice and salad. Filtered water is available at each of the camp sites, so you can refill at each station. You should carry 1.5-2L each day to be well hydrated.

When to go

Colombia has warm weather year-round, so the Lost City trek can technically be done anytime. The dry season runs between December and March. Temperatures are slightly lower during this time and there is less rain, making the hike's several river crossings easier. On the flip side, this is the busier season, increasing the number of tourists on the trail. The rainy season (April to November) can involve anything from a light drizzle to torrential downpours. Rivers will be fuller, sometimes raising the water as high as one's chest, so keep this in mind.

Getting there

The closest city to the starting point of the Lost City trek is Santa Marta. It is accessible by bus or car transfer from nearby major cities like Barranquilla and Cartagena. Bus Colombia is well connected by bus. For example, you can get a bus ticket online from Medellin to Santa Marta from $38 USD, or from Bogota to Santa Marta from $27 USD. Bus prices can sometimes be negotiable outside of peak season. A gentle, “Hay discuento?” will reveal if you can get a better rate. To purchase tickets, go to the nearest bus station or buy ahead online on Busbud. Flying If flying into Colombia, the nearest major airport to the Lost City is Cartagena. Use Skyscanner and select “Whole Month” to visualize the cheapest dates to fly. From there you must transfer onwards to Santa Marta.

Where to stay

Santa Marta Santa Marta is a small colonial city located along Colombia's northern coast. It is home to a small variety of bars, restaurants, and beaches. There are several hostel, hotel, and AirBNB (as low as $10 USD/night for a private room) options here suitable to various budgets and travel styles. We stayed at the bright and spacious Drop Bear Hostel (read reviews here). Drop Bear Hostel

Owned by a friendly Aussie, this vibrant hostel is set in a rustic Colombian mansion. It has a swimming pool, games room, restaurant, bar, pool table, cinema room, large kitchen, and hammock lounge. Those wanting some screen time can make use its computers (there is also good Wifi throughout the hostel). It's slightly removed from town so that it is a quiet paradise, but still has proximity to the beaches and city. Pricing: $9-$13 USD/night dorms (varying sizes), $20-$44 USD/night private Book here – Read reviews here Cartagena A fairy-tale like city nestled on the sparkling waters of the Caribbean, Cartagena is not to be missed. Speckled with brightly colored colonial buildings, even a wander through the streets here is stimulating. Cartagena's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, teeming with stone-brick walls and cobblestone roads. The city is a delight to explore at dusk into nightfall, as its street lamps romantically illuminate the colonial buildings and stone walls.

There are a dizzying number of hostel, hotel, and AirBNB (around $20 USD for a private room) options on hand here. We stayed at Hostel Mamallena (read reviews here), covered more below. Hostel Mamallena

Quaint, vibrant, and clean, Hostel Mamallena is a great option for a central pad in Cartagena. Basic breakfast is provided and the staff are friendly to help with any queries you may have. Dorm and private rooms are tidy and have air conditioning too. The backyard chill area and bar are great for socializing with other travellers at nightfall. Pricing: $14 USD/night (8-bed dorm), $41 USD/night private Book here – Read reviews here

Booking a trek tour to Colombia's Lost City (Ciudad Perdida)

A guided trek to Colombia's Lost City is the only way to visit the site, as it is sacred indigenous land now protected by the Colombian government. You can book tours online in advance with instant confirmation on Viator or G Adventures, or in person at your accommodation or tour company. When you do book, request an English speaking guide (if you don't speak Spanish), as this will majorly impact your overall experience and understanding of the site. If that's not possible, the guides will often ask a bi-lingual member of the tour to do the translating (this happened on our tour), so it's unlikely you'll miss too much.

What to pack

Firstly, pack light. When you're hiking through humidity and heat that's as thick as pudding, every bit of weight adds strain. We packed 2 day hiking outfits each (plus nighttime wear) and alternated drying them. You will become dirty/sweaty within minutes of putting your clothes on each day, so it's up to you whether you want to add bulk for the sake of clean options. Some hikers wash their clothes in the river and hang them to dry in between (though with the humidity, items never fully dry). For tips on travelling light, be sure to check our men's and women's packing guides. Note: if you're travelling with much bigger bags, it may be possible to store extra luggage/items at your Santa Marta accommodation if needed (check in advance – Drop Bear Hostel let us!). Here is what we recommend to pack for the Lost City trek: Clothing 2-3 quick-dry tops (tank top or t-shirt) 1 long sleeved shirt (for night) 1 pair pants or leggings (for night) 2-3 pairs of socks 2 sports bras 4 pairs of underwear Hiking shoes (we used running shoes) Sandals or flip flops (we wore flip flops) 1 bathing suit Rain jacket (mainly for wet season; we didn't use ours as it was hot and dry) Hat Toiletries Toothbrush & toothpaste Deodorant (ESSENTIAL!!!) 1 fast-dry towel Small first aid kit (Bandaids, hydrocortisone cream, Polysporin, Immodium) Insect repellent (DEET-containing is most effective, you can buy a soap-like version in Colombia called Nopikex. Natural alternatives include citronella, eucalyptus, tea tree oil, etc.) Sunscreen that is waterproof and sweat proof Miscellaneous Water bottle (we use the Platypusas it folds flat. Pack extra empty bottles if you don't have a large one already, you'll need 1.5-2L per day) Camera Portable charger Sleeping bag liner (on our hike there were bed bugs in the bunk beds; a liner does reduce the risk of bites, otherwise wear at least 3 layers) Rain jacket Flashlight and/or headlamp Waterproof backpack cover (we love our Deuter bags because they come with these!) Dry bag (very important for keeping electronics etc. safe during heavy rains and river crossings) Cash: the camps sell chocolate bars etc. in the evenings if you wish

The Thrifty Gist

The Lost City Trek in Colombia is an incredible trek. Booking a tour is required (check G Adventures or Viator for instant online confirmation, or book at your accommodation) Pack as light as possible, as you will be carrying your luggage on the trek A visit in dry season is advisable (Dec – March), but shoulder seasons are still okay Pack all essentials (refer to packing list above), as you will have no stops at shops on this remote trek Author:

JEN AVERY Jen is a five-foot-short fireball with an itch for adventure. Besides travel, her shameless vices include wine-fueled nights with good company, road trips to remote places, and squealing at adorable elderly dogs. (Also: COFFEE!). Read the full article

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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Anthony Bourdain and why we love Mexican Everything!

Anthony Bourdain wrote: "Americans love Mexican food. We consume nachos, tacos, burritos, tortas, enchiladas, tamales and anything resembling Mexican in enormous quantities. We love Mexican beverages, happily knocking back huge amounts of tequila, mezcal, and Mexican beer every year. We love Mexican people—we sure employ a lot of them. Despite our ridiculously hypocritical attitudes towards immigration, we demand that Mexicans cook a large percentage of the food we eat, grow the ingredients we need to make that food, clean our houses, mow our lawns, wash our dishes, and look after our children. As any chef will tell you, our entire service economy—the restaurant business as we know it—in most American cities, would collapse overnight without Mexican workers. Some, of course, like to claim that Mexicans are “stealing American jobs.” But in two decades as a chef and employer, I never had ONE American kid walk in my door and apply for a dishwashing job, a porter’s position—or even a job as a prep cook. Mexicans do much of the work in this country that Americans, probably, simply won’t do. We love Mexican drugs. Maybe not you personally, but “we”, as a nation, certainly consume titanic amounts of them—and go to extraordinary lengths and expense to acquire them. We love Mexican music, Mexican beaches, Mexican architecture, interior design, Mexican films. So, why don’t we love Mexico? We throw up our hands and shrug at what happens and what is happening just across the border. Maybe we are embarrassed. Mexico, after all, has always been there for us, to service our darkest needs and desires. Whether it’s dress up like fools and get passed-out drunk and sunburned on spring break in Cancun, throw pesos at strippers in Tijuana, or get toasted on Mexican drugs, we are seldom on our best behavior in Mexico. They have seen many of us at our worst. They know our darkest desires. In the service of our appetites, we spend billions and billions of dollars each year on Mexican drugs—while at the same time spending billions and billions more trying to prevent those drugs from reaching us. The effect on our society is everywhere to be seen. Whether it’s kids nodding off and overdosing in small town Vermont, gang violence in L.A., burned out neighborhoods in Detroit—it’s there to see. What we don’t see, however, haven’t really noticed, and don’t seem to much care about, is the 80,000 dead in Mexico, just in the past few years—mostly innocent victims. Eighty thousand families who’ve been touched directly by the so-called “War On Drugs”. Mexico. Our brother from another mother. A country, with whom, like it or not, we are inexorably, deeply involved, in a close but often uncomfortable embrace. Look at it. It’s beautiful. It has some of the most ravishingly beautiful beaches on earth. Mountains, desert, jungle. Beautiful colonial architecture, a tragic, elegant, violent, ludicrous, heroic, lamentable, heartbreaking history. Mexican wine country rivals Tuscany for gorgeousness. Its archeological sites—the remnants of great empires, unrivaled anywhere. And as much as we think we know and love it, we have barely scratched the surface of what Mexican food really is. It is NOT melted cheese over tortilla chips. It is not simple, or easy. It is not simply “bro food” at halftime. It is in fact, old—older even than the great cuisines of Europe, and often deeply complex, refined, subtle, and sophisticated. A true mole sauce, for instance, can take DAYS to make, a balance of freshly (always fresh) ingredients painstakingly prepared by hand. It could be, should be, one of the most exciting cuisines on the planet, if we paid attention. The old school cooks of Oaxaca make some of the more difficult and nuanced sauces in gastronomy. And some of the new generation—many of whom have trained in the kitchens of America and Europe—have returned home to take Mexican food to new and thrilling heights. It’s a country I feel particularly attached to and grateful for. In nearly 30 years of cooking professionally, just about every time I walked into a new kitchen, it was a Mexican guy who looked after me, had my back, showed me what was what, and was there—and on the case—when the cooks like me, with backgrounds like mine, ran away to go skiing or surfing or simply flaked. I have been fortunate to track where some of those cooks come from, to go back home with them. To small towns populated mostly by women—where in the evening, families gather at the town’s phone kiosk, waiting for calls from their husbands, sons and brothers who have left to work in our kitchens in the cities of the North. I have been fortunate enough to see where that affinity for cooking comes from, to experience moms and grandmothers preparing many delicious things, with pride and real love, passing that food made by hand from their hands to mine. In years of making television in Mexico, it’s one of the places we, as a crew, are happiest when the day’s work is over. We’ll gather around a street stall and order soft tacos with fresh, bright, delicious salsas, drink cold Mexican beer, sip smoky mezcals, and listen with moist eyes to sentimental songs from street musicians. We will look around and remark, for the hundredth time, what an extraordinary place this is. The received wisdom is that Mexico will never change. That is hopelessly corrupt, from top to bottom. That it is useless to resist—to care, to hope for a happier future. But there are heroes out there who refuse to go along. On this episode of “Parts Unknown,” we meet a few of them. People who are standing up against overwhelming odds, demanding accountability, demanding change—at great, even horrifying personal cost." Read the full article

#anthonybourdain #Mexican #Mexico

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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CNN's Anthony Bourdain dead at 61 [Remembering the life of Anthony Bourdain - Video]

Programming note: CNN will air "Remembering Anthony Bourdain," a special report on the life and legacy of the chef, storyteller and writer, tonight at 10 p.m. ET. Remembering the life of Anthony Bourdain 02:18 New York (CNN)Anthony Bourdain, the gifted chef, storyteller and writer who took TV viewers around the world to explore culture, cuisine and the human condition for nearly two decades, has died. He was 61. CNN confirmed Bourdain's death on Friday and said the cause of death was suicide. Bourdain was in France working on an upcoming episode of his award-winning CNN series, "Parts Unknown." His close friend Eric Ripert, the French chef, found Bourdain unresponsive in his hotel room Friday morning.

Anthony Bourdain on January 4, 2017, in Port of Spain, Trinidad "It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain," the network said in a statement Friday morning. "His love of great adventure, new friends, fine food and drink and the remarkable stories of the world made him a unique storyteller. "His talents never ceased to amaze us and we will miss him very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter and family at this incredibly difficult time." Reactions to Anthony Bourdain's death Bourdain joined CNN five years ago. In an email to employees, the network's president, Jeff Zucker, remembered him as an "exceptional talent." "Tony will be greatly missed not only for his work but also for the passion with which he did it," Zucker wrote. Viewers around the world felt connected to Bourdain through his fearless travels, his restless spirit and his magical way with words. Fans, fellow chefs, celebrities and friends reacted to his death with stunned sorrow. "My heart breaks for Tony Bourdain," CNN's chief international correspondent, Christiane Amanpour, wrote on Twitter. "May he rest in peace now."

President Donald Trump extended his condolences to Bourdain's family on Friday morning. "I enjoyed his show," Trump said. "He was quite a character." Former President Barack Obama recalled a meal he shared with Bourdain in Vietnam while Obama was on a trip through Asia in 2016 -- an encounter captured in a "Parts Unknown" episode that year. "'Low plastic stool, cheap but delicious noodles, cold Hanoi beer.' This is how I'll remember Tony," Obama posted to Twitter on Friday. "He taught us about food -- but more importantly, about its ability to bring us together. To make us a little less afraid of the unknown. We'll miss him." For the past year, Bourdain had been dating Italian actress Asia Argento. She remembered Bourdain as someone who "gave all of himself in everything that he did." Last year he advocated for Argento as she went public with accusations against disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein. "He was my love, my rock, my protector. I am beyond devastated." Bourdain's death came days after fashion designer Kate Spade died in an apparent suicide Tuesday at her Manhattan apartment. Suicide is a growing problem in the United States. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published a survey Thursday showing suicide rates increased by 25% across the United States over nearly two decades ending in 2016. Twenty-five states experienced a rise in suicides by more than 30%, the government report finds. Read the full article

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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How the Capital of Sicily Became a Rainbow City

by Wonderful Italy In 2014 the local administration of Palermo, headed by Leoluca Orlando, brought Palermo into the Rainbow Cities Network. Now the city is one of the gems of RCN, an Italian international network that connects municipalities fighting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and also promotes the fundamental rights of citizens. It’s not a coincidence for Palermo to be at the forefront of the fight for civil rights. Many locals still carry the emotional scars from the fight with another tentacular monster, the Mafia. In the ‘90s, white sheets hung outside the windows of every house to denounce the Mafia’s hold on the population. Eventually, actions and words overcame the silence that resulted from crime, oppression and the sense of imminent death floating above this wonderful, cursed city.

In today’s Palermo, we witness the rainbow revolution in the streets promoting the right to be free. There are even community resources like local maps and LGBTQ friendly activities, which have become important milestones for a city in continuous evolution. From the wild and untouched yellow-sand beaches of Mondello to the natural reserve coast of Barcarello, Palermo has many activities for visitors just a few minutes away from the city center. You’ll also find a collection of welcoming pubs, restaurants and other venues located throughout the city. LGBTQ-friendly activities, saunas and spas, hotels and B&Bs are in Palermo for a reason: They reflect the progression of tolerance and openness in the city, as do a number of public events geared toward the LGBTQ community. Palermo’s road to LGBTQ acceptance is also seen in Palermo Pride, the rally that takes place every year toward the end of spring. The celebration grows each year and has become an important moment for the local LGBTQ community to share their points of view through special events, seminars and panels.

There are also several other LGBTQ-oriented events throughout the year in Palermo. The Sicilia Queer Festival is one of the most important events when it comes to cinematography with its transversal agenda, art shows, parties and movie screenings (late May/June). The DigraItaliainternational convention will take place in June 2018, focusing on women, the LGBTQ community and gender identity, and it also includes a special focus on videogames. From these events, the Teatro Bastardo was born, a cultural performance space and a melting pot of experiences about diversity. And on a lighter note, the party PopShock is hosted on special nights at various dance clubs with great DJs in an LGBTQ-friendly environment. Want to experience it all? Come to Palermo. The post was written by Wonderful Italy, who manages hundreds of vacation rentals and experiences in Italy that welcome travelers from all over the world. Visit their website to find out more about their houses and experiences in Palermo and all across the country. “We believe in wonder. We are local and we come from the world. An Italian company with solid roots in our land. We are active in Sicily and in Apulia.” Photo credit: Rolf Dietrich Brecher via Flicker CC BY 2.0 Read the full article

#italy #lgbt #lgbtq #palermo #pride #sicily

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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Is Universal Creating Star Trek Land to Compete with Disney's Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge?

TREVOR NORKEY 05.24.2018 Following Disney announcing the opening dates of Star Wars Galaxy's Edge at Disney World in Orlando and Disneyland Park in Anaheim, rumors have surfaced that Universe Studios Orlando is planning on countering this with a bit of competition. According to the rumor, Universal will be bringing a Star Trek section to their fourth park that is currently being developed. Not long after the Walt Disney Company purchased Lucasfilm, they announced that their two American theme parks will be receiving large sections based around the Star Wars franchise. It has taken years for things to come along, but finally the opening dates have been announced. Galaxy's Edge, which is the title of the Star Wars section, will open in the summer of 2019 at Disneyland, and in the fall of 2019 at Disney World. Many Disney parks already featured a Star Wars ride, along with some small attractions featuring Disney staff members dressed as Star Wars characters, but this new expansion will be much more immersive and exciting for fans of the Star Wars saga.

Clearly, this is going to attract a great number of people to Disney World in 2019, which could take away from the people who would regularly visit Universal Studios instead. A few years back, Universal Studios fixed their struggle to attract fans while competing with Disney World by adding two different Harry Potter-themed sections to their parks. However, Disney's Galaxy's Edge may bring that attention and popularity back to Disney, as the Star Wars franchise is currently a lot more popular today than Harry Potter.

Adding a Star Trek-themed section to Universal Studios may not be the perfect counter to Galaxy's Edge, as the Star Wars franchise is much more prominent in pop culture than the Star Trek franchise, but it's still an incredibly smart move. While the Star Trek section won't have iconic characters like R2-D2 or Darth Vader, it will still most likely have a similar aesthetic, being about space adventures. Because of this, over time, many people wanting to go to a theme park may see Universal's Star Trek section as equally alluring as Disney's Galaxy's Edge.

Read the full article

#StarTrek #StarTrekLand #StarWars #UniversalStudios

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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Timeshare Promotions - Our Cancun Experience

Published By : Pete

What are timeshare promotions?

Timeshare promotions are really a very simple concept. You get an amazing deal on a resort, in exchange you spend an hour or two on one of your days listening to a sales pitch. Ironically, on my “Facebook memories” a timeshare presentation vacation we took popped up. Here is the image:

My Facebook Post a year from today

Are timeshare promotions worth the money?

I think that value comes in the form of how much your time is worth. I’ll give you our real world example. As you can see from this image, this is what it would cost to book the same resort this year. Last year it would have been close to $3000 for our stay.

The yellow and red arrow indicates what we would pay today for the same dates. If our money and time hold value we can do some simple math and see if this is worth it. At $2500 today and lets assume two hours sitting through a presentation then we can assume if you make more than $850 an hour that the presentation might not be worth it. We paid $800 so you have to subtract that amount from the total, which made the difference $1700. Furthermore, I would imagine that even if you did make that kind of money, the savings is still worth it.

Where did we get the deal?

We got the Cancun deal from Book Vip, the image below takes you directly to the site.

It was actually very easy to make to reservation but remember, you have to book your own flight.

What was our experience?

This was our first timeshare promotion to Riviera Maya Cancun. We would most certainly do it again also! I spent most of the time enjoying the free cocktails and food but I did manage to get a photo or two. Take a look below for some images of the bedroom, bathroom and pool areas.

Our view from the balcony

Pool area of Secrets Silversands

Unfortunately I did not take a picture of the food or multiple restaurants on the property. Just rest assured they were all top quality.

Yes, we had fun!

Would I do a Timeshare Promotion Again?

Absolutely, without a doubt YES! Out trip to Riviera Maya Cancun was amazing. Even though we ended up sacrificing around 90 minutes of our day, the money we saved was well worth it. In fact, with the money we saved we ended up jumping to a neighboring property for another three days just to check it out. Furthermore, some of the deals allow you to make trips to different destinations. You just have to check out what is available at the time. BookVip has a huge selection of Riviera Cancun timeshare promotions! So what are you waiting for? First, you can go to an all inclusive resort in a tropical environment. Second, you can do it while paying one third of the price. Third, free food and free drinks. Oh, I already mentioned that. Fourth, you get access to shows and several amenities. Additionally, you do this all by sacrificing just a couple of hours of your time. Last but not least, you make great memories at beautiful properties on a budget almost anyone can afford! Read the full article

#BookVIP #BOOKVIP #CANCUN #CANCUNTIMESHAREPROMOTION #CHEAPVACTATIONS #RIVIERAMAYA #TIMESHAREPRESENTATION #TIMESHAREPROMOTIONS

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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THIS SITE MATCHES PET SITTERS WITH BEAUTIFUL HOMES ALL OVER THE WORLD

There are few things better in life than a) travelling the world and b) cute animals. Those two things may seem unrelated, but they don't have to be, thanks to Trusted Housesitters -- a handy site that matches pet-owning homeowners trying trying to score a vacation with top-notch, vetted pet sitters looking for a free place to crash during their own travels. Eat your heart out, Airbnb.

The site actually launched back in 2010, and it's a dream for both people looking to see the world on the cheap and pet owners who'd prefer not to kennel their furry loved ones when they go on vacation. It already boasts thousands of members in over 140 countries, which means the chances are good you'll be able to find a place to crash anywhere on your bucket list, or a quality caretaker when it's time to skip town. And luckily, signing up is incredibly easy, and it won't cost you anything, apart from the $10 monthly membership fee.

To participate on either end, you'll need to become an official member. To get the keys to the best homes (and the pets inside, of course), you'll first need to rack up a series of good ratings, but that shouldn't be too tough as long as you can pencil in a few local house-/pet-sitting stints the first few times. Once you earn your stripes as a 5-star sitter, you'll be more likely to be picked by the most desirable sittees, and score access to some seriously kickass properties from oceanfront spreads in Australia and sprawling London flats, to private villas in the Spanish countryside and 5-bedroom homes in North Carolina. Since you won't be paying for your lodgings, it's one hell of a cheap, convenient, and potentially luxurious way to see the world, as long as you're down to tend to whatever furry/shelled/scaly/feathered creature is in need of attention. For pet owners, it's also an affordable (and arguably more humane) option, when compared to the alternative: ditching an animal at a kennel for an extended stay, where they may rack up a hefty bill and feel anxious about their unfamiliar surroundings. There are also a number of listings seeking more long-term arrangements, in case you're on the lookout for a way to relocate or test out a new city for a while. And perhaps the best perk of all this -- apart from all the animal companionship -- is traveling the world and saving a bundle. To scope out the full selection of homes (and to sign up to join), head to TrustedHousesitters and peruse its very informative FAQsection. Read the full article

#house #housesitting #sitting #TRAVEL

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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HERE'S THE CHEAPEST FLIGHT TO EUROPE FROM EVERY U.S. STATE

CLICK IMAGE ABOVE FOR A ZOOMABLE VERSION. By DUSTIN NELSON @dlukenelson It's the golden age of flights to Europe. Price wars have pushed fares down so low that it's no longer mind-boggling when an airline offers $99 one-way flights to Europe. However, despite the deluge of deals, the majority of flights aren't of the bargain basement variety. Nonetheless, Kayak.com reports flights to Europe are the cheapest they've been over the last three summers. Kayak collected data from its own site to highlight the cheapest summer European destination out of every US state using the median price to that location over the course of the summer. Below you'll find details on those destinations and median prices highlighted in the map above. For states without an international airport, Kayak assigned it the nearest international airport. One of the biggest takeaways is that the cheap trips to Iceland are real. Reykjavik was the cheapest destination for 25 of the 62 international airports on which Kayak provided data. You can get to Iceland on the cheap from all over the US, and it's definitely worth your time. Dublin, which was the city that appeared the second most-frequently, is a slightly more surprising cheap destination for many around the US. Kayak provided data on multiple international airports for some states. That information is below, while the map above only shows the cheapest of those flights. Alabama Airport: HSV Destination: Frankfurt, Germany - $875 Airport: BHM Destination: Paris, France - $1,110 Alaska Airport: ANC Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $677 Arizona Airport: PHX Destination: Madrid, Spain - $563 Airport: TUS Destination: Zurich, Switzerland - $805 Arkansas Airport: MEM Destination: London, England - $1,068 California Airport: LAX Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $404 Airport: SFO Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $442 Airport: SAN Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $766 Colorado Airport: DEN Destination: Brussels, Belgium - $379 Connecticut Airport: BDL Destination: Edinburgh, Scotland - $548 Delaware Airport: BWI Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $359 Florida Airport: MCO Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $541 Airport: MIA Destination: Madrid, Spain - $545 Airport: TPA Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $615 Georgia Airport: ATL Destination: Budapest, Hungary - $640 Airport: SAV Destination: London, England - $830 Hawaii Airport: HNL Destination: London, England - $906 Airport: KOA Destination: London, England - $960 Idaho Airport: SLC Destination: Venice, Italy - $468 Illinois Airport: ORD Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $450 Indiana Airport: IND Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $788 Iowa Airport: DSM Destination: London, England - $898 Kansas Airport: MCI Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $600 Kentucky Airport: CVG Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $509 Airport: SDF Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $789 Louisiana Airport: MSY Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $732 Maine Airport: BOS Destination: Stockholm, Sweden - $479 Maryland Airport: BWI Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $359 Massachusetts Airport: BOS Destination: Stockholm, Sweden - $479 Michigan Airport: DTW Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $409 Airport: GRR Destination: Rekjavik, Iceland - $789 Minnesota Airport: MSP Destination: Budapest, Hungary - $463 Mississippi Airport: MSY Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $732 Missouri Airport: MCI Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $600 Airport: STL Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $752 Montana Airport: BZN Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $797 Airport: BIL Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $822 Nebraska Airport: OMA Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $864 Nevada Airport: LAS Destination: Copenhagen, Denmark - $563 Airport: RNO Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $871 New Hampshire Airport: BOS Destination: Stockholm, Sweden - $479 New Jersey Airport: EWR Destination: Paris, France - $521 New Mexico Airport: ABQ Destination: Geneva, Switzerland - $705 New York Airport: JFK Destination: Paris, France - $517 Airport: BUF Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $740 North Carolina Airport: RDU Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $665 Airport: CLT Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $739 North Dakota Airport: BIL Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $822 Ohio Airport: CLE Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $457 Airport: CMH Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $694 Airport: CVG Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $509 Oklahoma Airport: TUL Destination: Venice, Italy - $760 Airport: OKC Destination: Venice, Italy - $952 Oregon Airport: PDX Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $642 Pennsylvania Airport: PIT Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $319 Airport: PHL Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $497 Rhode Island Airport: BOS Destination: Stockholm, Sweden - $479 South Carolina Airport: CHS Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $789 South Dakota Airport: OMA Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $864 Tennessee Airport: BNA Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $771 Airport: MEM Destination: London, England - $1,068 Texas Airport: IAH Destination: Madrid, Spain - $598 Airport: AUS Destination: London, England - $642 Utah Airport: SLC Destination: Venice, Italy - $468 Vermont Airport: BTV Destination: London, England - $780 Virginia Airport: RIC Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $793 Airport: ORF Destination: London, England - $845 Washington Airport: SEA Destination: Munich, Germany - $663 West Virginia Airport: PIT Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland $319 Wisconsin Airport: MKE Destination: London, England - $835 Wyoming Airport: BIL Destination: Dublin, Ireland - $822 Washington DC Airport: IAD Destination: Reykjavik, Iceland - $482 Read the full article

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trekwithcraig · 6 years

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HERE'S THE CHEAPEST FLIGHT TO EUROPE FROM EVERY U.S. STATE

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