Travelrific® Travel Journal

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Archive for tourism

Autumn in San Diego

By Linda Tancs

Although it may be difficult to think of fall harvests and foliage tours in sun-drenched San Diego, there are events in that area to celebrate the rise of the harvest moon.  Consider, for instance, the apple harvest in the town of Julian, just one hour east of the city.  Until the apples run out (and you better hurry, some picking sites are already closed for the season), you can enjoy the fall foliage mountain views of Cuyamaca from the orchards.  Any particular shade of crimson you’re looking for?  Check out the fall foliage maps and hotline provided by the US Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us

Want a California shirt?  Buy one here:  http://www.cafepress.com/wanderfulplaces/2320877

Financial Centers to Link Via Continental

By Linda Tancs

The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced its tentative approval of a new route linking Newark and Shanghai.  Continental Airlines was awarded the coveted route, which will begin non-stop operations in 2009.  Start saving your pennies now for this shoppers’ paradise.

Budapest, Hungary

By Linda Tancs

In this week’s edition of Travelrific Travel Show, the topic is Budapest, Hungary.  Once divided by the mighty Danube, the bridges now uniting the ancient cities of Buda and Pest provide stirring panoramas of this architecturally diverse metropolis.  Learn more at www.travelrificradio.com.

Buy your Hungary shirt here:  http://www.cafepress.com/wanderfulplaces/2455512

A Million Gallons of Beer Await You in Munich

By Linda Tancs

For those who don’t mind a little invasion of their personal space, now’s the time to head to Munich for Oktoberfest, which kicked off on September 22nd and runs through October 7.  Just be prepared to sing and sway shoulder to shoulder with your comrades.  Prosit!

Check out Germany shirts here:  http://www.cafepress.com/wanderfulplaces/2318832

Hit the Ground Running in Omaha

By Linda Tancs

Attention all marathoners:  time to test your mettle on the rugged terrain of Omaha, Nebraska on Sunday, September 23rd.  But your sneakers are worn down, you say?  No need to worry.  Run without them in this year’s first barefoot runners category.  But don’t forget your t-shirt.  http://www.cafepress.com/wanderfulplaces/2321174

The Districts of Hong Kong

By Linda Tancs

In this week’s edition of Travelrific  Travel Show, the topic is Hong Kong.  You’ll find no shortage of sartorial delights in this pearl of a city known for its sweeping high-rise views.  Find out why on www.travelrificradio.com

Don’t Idle in Italy

By Linda Tancs

Anyone who has ever traveled to Venice, Italy, during peak season has experienced the herding phenomenon in and around the square and across its famous bridges, not to mention the scowls and angry utterances of the locals trying to keep pace with the droppings of litterbugs and loiterers. Well, idle no more. The Venetians are reclaiming their turf with fines for those foolish enough to nosh on their panini while touring. So sit down (at a table, that is), relax, and enjoy that gelato. Grazie.

French Polynesia

In this week’s edition of Travelrific Travel Show, the topic is French Polynesia.  From hiking to diving to jeeping, learn why this idyllic island chain is not just for honeymooners anymore.  Visit www.travelrificradio.com

Biloxi is Back

By Linda Tancs

Biloxi, Mississippi is home to nine casinos.  “Is” is the key word.  Following the ravages of Katrina, Biloxi has replaced its floating casinos with on-shore, Vegas-worthy digs at Bayview and Beach.  Why not head over for the Seafood Festival at the Town Green on September 15th and 16th and give a few slot machines a spin while you’re there.  Just don’t lose your shirt.  http://www.cafepress.com/wanderfulplaces/2321150

World Heritage Site Gets Sacked

By Linda Tancs

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization determines the suitability of sites around the world for designation as a World Heritage Site.  Their review includes, among other things, the degree to which the nominated property contributes value to humanity.  Winners include the Pyramids, the Great Barrier Reef and Chili’s moai of Easter Island.  But are these illustrious examples of culture and natural beauty immune from devaluation?  Apparently not.  At least one WHS has been delisted because of plans to drill for some black gold. That site is Oman’s Arabian Oryx Sanctuary.  Of course, greed is but one cause of degradation.   The tourism that results from a WHS title can wreck havoc on Nature’s bounty, bringing yet another shade of meaning to the law of unintended consequences.   There is some recourse, however, short of delisting.  A site could be eligible for placement on the List of World Heritage in Danger, which triggers economic assistance to endangered sites such as the Wildlife Reserve in the Congo.  You needn’t be a government muckety-muck to get a site on this list.  You can report your own concerns to UNESCO at wh-info@unesco.org