September 6, 2017: Wasabi, green tea and sake aren’t just food and drink in Japan — they’re just some of the new Kit Kat flavors offered in the country. The Japanese love their Kit Kats and offer more than 300 flavors — with new offerings that include custard pudding and ginger. Candy consumption has tripled in Japan over the past 4 years with a second Kit Kat factory on the way!
September 1, 2017: Several thousand locals and visitors trudged into Finish backwoods recently to watch the world champion Swamp Soccer Games. Other innovative Finish events include: The Mobile Phone Tossing World Championships, World Berry Picking Competition and Hobby Horse Races — the “hot” new event added to the schedule for next year — The Wife Carrying Races — winners receive their wife’s weight in beer or vodka! The Fins do make the most of their 2 months of sun each year!!!
August 2, 2017: Outdoor trekkers seeking new places to explore are headed now to Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand for their adventures. Myanmar and Malaysia are also hosting more outdoor adventure travelers than ever before — some even selecting to overnight in a monastery. Don’t leave home without a tetanus shot and your malaria pills!
July 31, 2017: In 2016, travelers passing through TSA check points in the USA left behind nearly $1 Million in lose coins and currency — a record collection. Most generous — or forgetful — US airport is New York’s JFK. The TC suggests you put coins, money clip, etc. in a shoe or bag pocket. Not sure what TSA does with this new found wealth?
July 21, 2017: Italy is always a grand vacation destination but can be expensive. Here’s a few ideas for wallet watchers: skip the peak season — keep away from travel to Italy in May-September and look to November-early March for best off-season times and values — up to 30% less!
Look for lesser known regions like Puglia (has an Amalfi-like coast), or Bergamo, north of Milan (culture and great food). Hire a guide who is also a driver (they might refer to themselves as a “tour manager”). Travel in a group of six or more and rent a villa for half the price of rooms in a hotel Hire a cook for at least one night and include a cooking lesson. Eat and drink with locals — drink local wine. And look for inexpensive osterias and trattorias with cab drivers and hotel staff as location information resources.
May 31, 2017: Recently acquired by Alaska Air, the Virgin America name will disappear by year end as the carrier becomes fully integrated into the Alaska system. The Virgin carrier developed a loyal following — with top service and interior aircraft upgrades — during it’s short life. Hopefully the folks at Alaska will continue some of the traditions (doubtful) as well as Alaska’s “above the competition” reputation for care and comfort?
