Blog

March 20, 2017: If that self-proclaimed Aloha shirt is an old one, check around before tossing or giving away to a thrift store. These shirts are back in style and once again a symbol of “cool confidence” as well as an “endless summer.” Once thought to be somewhat garish or tacky, the shirts (especially the older models) are now considered “hip” and not a signifier of the style challenged tourist. Older Aloha shirts, in good condition, can now bring 10x to 20x’s their original purchase price. Mahalo!

March 17, 2017: Here’s the top 5 US cities that require “extra patience” when driving:

• Los Angeles (way out in front in this category)
• New York (why would you want to even think about driving in the Big Apple?)
• San Francisco (confusing one way streets and bike riders can be extremely hazardous and unforgiving)
• Atlanta (too many roadside obstacles)
• Miami (Miami Vice on the roads)

 

March 15, 2017: Voluntourism is worth looking into — if you want to travel and use your time to do some good. Opportunities include wildlife conservation, education, health, nutrition, environmental conservation and much more. You need to know whats included and expected before you sign up — especially where you might be based — most likely not with easy access to a Four Seasons. Best plan is to pick a respected charity that offers worldwide volunteering opportunities — Giving Way, International Volunteer HG and Volunteers for Peace are a good starting point. Give a Day Global offers day long programs — others might be a week or more — check out your organization of choice carefully, as well has contact with travelers who have experienced a program. Leave any idea of rest and relaxation back home!

March 13, 2017: Yup — an Oregon company wants to build the country’s first “legal” pot RV park. The RV park, planned with a lakeside setting, will be called, “Smoke on the Water,” and include a pot dispensary and campgrounds. Could this be start of a legal pot travel trend?

 

March 10, 2017: Airlines have a long tradition of serving nut snacks on planes — travelers with nut allergies seem to be growing and becoming more obnoxious about not only having nuts served but passengers who bring on their own nut snacks. In some recent “nutty experiences,” inflight crews have removed passengers who complain and demand that nuts not be served or eaten by fellow travelers — maybe these “nuts” should just give us all a break and drive?

March 3, 2017: First the bad news — due to the new popularity of bacon (at home and on the road), US bacon reserves are at a 50 year low. Bacon providers say demand is not only high here in the US but as an export and is more than suppliers can keep up with! Now the good news if you like “fresh” brewery Guinness. For the first time ever Guinness will be brewed in the US — at a brewery in Relay, Maryland. Don’t cancel your trip to Ireland yet— bet it will still taste better at the original Guinness Brewery in Dublin!

March 1, 2017: Rumors and such from TSA are circulating again “free” TSA Pre Check is going to disappear — in favor of directing travelers into the paid programs — which really has been the plan all along. Travelers can currently select from two options: TSA Pre Check ($85) or Global Entry ($100 plus). Check requirements and fine print for each — Global Entry involves a more lengthly application process — including an interview. But if you travel frequently, especially international, Global Entry is a way better deal and program!

February 27, 2017: Recently a diner at a restaurant in Wales called the chef over to complain about “tough and rubbery” food — and followed him into the kitchen — where the chef tossed a powder substance (chili powder?) into the complainers face. The chef was booked on assault — not sure the patron received a comp meal?