Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Giant jellyfish cause boat to capsize]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/giant-jellyfish-cause-ship-boat-to-capsize/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/giant-jellyfish-cause-ship-boat-to-capsize/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/06/giant-jellyfish-cause-ship-boat-to-capsize/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A school of giant Nomura's jellyfish are being blamed for the sinking of a fishing boat earlier this week, sending the three man crew overboard, and the 10-ton ship to the bottom of the ocean just off the eastern coast of Japan.

According to this story from Sky News, the fishermen were attempting to pull in a net filled with the creatures, but the weight of the catch caused the boat to roll onto its side and begin taking on water. The species of jellyfish are known to weigh in excess of 450 pounds, and can be more than two meters in diameter, which gives you an indication of just how large these beasts can grow.

2009 seems to have been a banner year for the Nomura's jellyfish, as the waters between China and Japan have seen an unusual number of the creatures in recent months. Scientists believe it is due to near perfect weather and water conditions throughout the year, and the Japanese fishing industry is preparing for an onslaught of problems in the months ahead. In the past, the jellyfish have damaged fishing equipment, stung fish caught in the nets, and clogged commercial sea lanes.

I'm not sure about you, but a 6+ foot, 400 pound jellyfish sounds pretty frightening to me. The small ones are enough to keep most people out of the water, and I can't imagine what it must be like to come across one of these while scuba diving or snorkeling, let alone dozens of them in one area.

Giant jellyfish cause boat to capsize originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTraveljellyfishnomuras jellyfishNomurasJellyfishscubascubadivingwildlifeFri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SkyMall Monday: Underwater Cell Phone System]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/02/skymall-monday-underwater-cell-phone-system/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/02/skymall-monday-underwater-cell-phone-system/http://www.gadling.com/2009/11/02/skymall-monday-underwater-cell-phone-system/#commentsFiled under: ,

Here at the SkyMall Monday headquarters, the motto is "Be Prepared...Always" I considered copying the Boy Scouts' motto verbatim, but I just can't support any organization that places so much emphasis on neckerchiefs. That said, I like to be ready for any situation, and thankfully the SkyMall catalog anticipates every situation imaginable (and some that only a person on a tremendous amount of hallucinogens could possibly consider). So, while some people are content with put their faith in maps, GPS systems and charts, I require a Plan D. I need to know that, at any time, I can contact my SkyMall Monday support team for assistance. As I often find myself 40 meters underwater and completely lost, I can't be trying to read a soggy AAA TripTik with outdated notes about speed traps. No, I need real help. Thankfully, SkyMall anticipated this completely common and harrowing situation and responsibly chose to distribute a product that can help me when nothing else can. The next time I'm disoriented below sea level, I'm going to call the Gadling editors and ask for help on my Underwater Cell Phone System.

Continue reading SkyMall Monday: Underwater Cell Phone System

SkyMall Monday: Underwater Cell Phone System originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alpha UWCPAlphaUwcpcell phoneCellPhonegps-dayphoneSCUBASCUBA divingScubaDivingSkyMallSkyMall Mondayskymall-mondaySkymallMondaytelephoneunderwaterunderwater cell phone systemUnderwaterCellPhoneSystemMon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[25 great adventures for 2010]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/21/25-great-adventures-for-2010/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/21/25-great-adventures-for-2010/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/21/25-great-adventures-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The latest issue of National Geographic Adventure has just hit the newsstand with a special treat inside for adventure travelers looking for their next big trip. The magazine has listed its selection for the 25 best new trips for 2010, offering up suggestions of places to visit in nearly every corner of the globe.

The list is organized in alphabetical order by destination, starting with Bhutan and running through several U.S. locations as well. Each of the locations also has a tour operator associated with it, and clicking on the text will give you a more detailed description of what you can expect on your adventure.

No matter what draws you to adventure travel, you're sure to find something on the list that appeals to you. For instance, if you're up for a challenging kayaking adventure, head to Bhutan with Bio Bio Expeditions, where you get the opportunity to make the first descent on a previously unpaddled section of the Drangme Chhu River. Does an island adventure sound more enticing? Then plan a trip to Sri Lanka with Access Trips, where you can go surfing and mountain biking through that amazing setting. And for those who would prefer a little more rest and relaxation with their adventure, there is always the Muang La Resort in Laos which offers jungle escapes that includes luxury rooms and a deluxe spa. That trip is available through Asia Transpacific Journeys.

No one knows adventure like National Geographic, and you can bet that each of these trips will deliver in that category. With 2009 quickly coming to an end, it is never too early to start planning your own adventures for 2010, and this list is a great place to start.

25 great adventures for 2010 originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelecotourismhikingnational geographicNationalGeographicpaddlingscubadivingtrekkingWed, 21 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[In Monterey this fall: The Monterey Bay Aquarium celebrates its silver anniversary]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/05/in-monterey-this-fall-the-monterey-bay-aquarium-celebrates-its/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/05/in-monterey-this-fall-the-monterey-bay-aquarium-celebrates-its/http://www.gadling.com/2009/10/05/in-monterey-this-fall-the-monterey-bay-aquarium-celebrates-its/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Something must be in the air in Monterey this fall, because there are so many anniversaries and celebrations it would be hard to pass up a trip to California's coast to catch some art and culture with a little history mixed in.

Earlier this fall, I told you about the Monterey Museum of Art celebrating its 50th anniversary and the 52nd Monterey Jazz Festival. Fortunately, Monterey has one more big celebration up its sleeve. The Monterey Bay Aquarium celebrates its silver anniversary later this month.

Continue reading In Monterey this fall: The Monterey Bay Aquarium celebrates its silver anniversary

In Monterey this fall: The Monterey Bay Aquarium celebrates its silver anniversary originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryaquariumcelebrationfishmontereymonterey bay aquariumsilver anniversarySilverAnniversaryunderwaterMon, 05 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[100 urban adventures for the city dweller]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/20/100-urban-adventures/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/20/100-urban-adventures/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/20/100-urban-adventures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Looking for something to do today as the weekend quickly comes to a close? Then look no further than Outside Magazine's list of 100 Urban Adventures. As you can no doubt tell, it contains some of the best activities to do in the great outdoors while remaining well within some of the largest cities in the U.S.

Outside turns its attention on such urban centers as New York, Boston, and Chicago, amongst others. Some of their suggestions for outdoor fun might come as a surprise, even to those that live there. For instance, plenty of people have probably considered paddling around Liberty Island to get a spectacular view of the Statue of Liberty from inside a Kayak, but did you also know that you could go bouldering in Central Park?

There are equally interesting adventures from the other cities as well. Go sailing on Lake Michigan while in Chicago, horseback riding through the Hollywood Hills in L.A., or trout fishing a short distance from downtown Seattle. These are just a sample of some of the adventures on the list and chances are you'll find something on it that will appeal to what ever level of activity you're up for.

But what if you don't live in any of these cities? My guess that no matter where you live, you'll find similar hidden outdoor adventures right under your nose. Take a look around, and you're likely to find all kinds of interesting things to do. But hurry, the weekend is slipping away fast.

100 urban adventures for the city dweller originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelbostonchicagoclimbingdenverfishinghikinglos angelesLosAngelesnew yorkNewYorkoutside magazineOutsideMagazinepaddlingsan franciscoSanFranciscoseattleurbanurban adventuresUrbanAdventureswashington dcWashingtonDcSun, 20 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Abercrombie & Kent announce extreme adventures for 2010]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/01/abercrombie-and-kent-announce-extreme-adventures-for-2010/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/01/abercrombie-and-kent-announce-extreme-adventures-for-2010/http://www.gadling.com/2009/09/01/abercrombie-and-kent-announce-extreme-adventures-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Adventure travel specialist Abercrombie & Kent have announced their "extreme" adventures for 2010, offering up 15 amazing opportunities for travelers looking for unique experiences, provided of course they also have plenty of cash to pay for them.

No matter what kind of adventure you crave, you're sure to find it on this list. For instance, you can head off into the desert on an eleven day expedition that follows in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, or if sun and sand aren't your cup of tea, then maybe you'd prefer to go dog sledding in Norway for nine days. Fancy a mountain setting? Than book a trip to Everest Base Camp for 20 days of trekking in the Khumbu Valley instead. These are just a few of the great options that A&K have in store for 2010, with tours planned for remote locations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and even the South Pole.

Widely considered one of the best luxury travel companies in the world, Abercrombie & Kent has years of experience planning adventurous trips to the far corners of the globe. The company promises small group tours, ranging in size from about 6-8 people, which allows for more one-on-one interaction with their expert guides, as well as ensuring that the group can move quickly while having a very limited impact on the environment.

Of course, these specialized tours come at quite a cost, and while many tour operators are looking for ways to offer discounted options in these challenging economic times, A&K is sticking to their plan to offer unique experiences for premium prices. For example, that dog sledding expedition that I mentioned above comes with a hefty price tag of $9655, not including airfare. Clearly not for the backpacker on a budget!

Abercrombie & Kent announce extreme adventures for 2010 originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelblue holeBlueHolecampinghikinghistorykilimanjarolawrence of arabiaLawrenceOfArabiamount kilimanjaromount kilimanjaro climbMountKilimanjaroMountKilimanjaroClimbmt. kilimanjaroMt.Kilimanjaropaddlingsafariscubascuba divingscubadivingsouth poleSouthPoletrekkingTue, 01 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First-time scuba diving for under $100? Where in the world?]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/29/first-time-scuba-diving-for-under-100-where-in-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/29/first-time-scuba-diving-for-under-100-where-in-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/29/first-time-scuba-diving-for-under-100-where-in-the-world/#commentsFiled under: ,

I've wanted to go scuba diving for as long as I can remember. To be able to inhale and exhale underwater while swimming near schools of brightly colored fish and jaw-dropping coral-- how could that possibly not be a Top Ten Life Experience? My desire to go diving was only intensified on my recent trip to Mexico by the scores of other travelers who told me, "You must go scuba diving before you leave!"

"Believe me, I'd love to," I always thought. Unfortunately, shelling out hundreds of dollars for a PADI-certification course, the multi-day training program wannabe scuba divers usually must enroll in before their first dive, was not in my meager budget.

So how did I get around this rather formidable financial obstacle? How did I go scuba diving for the first time for less than $100? Through a PADI-approved program called Discover Scuba Diving, an introductory course available at most dive shops throughout the world.

I enrolled in this $90-dollar course at Dreamtime Dive Resort, a well-run dive shop in the town of Mahahual, Mexico, located on the southern part of the Yucatan Peninsula. Dreamtime's owner, a French expat named Yama Saad-Zoi, is a former member of the French Special Forces and, in addition to being a divemaster, also used to work as a skydiving instructor. Despite his small frame, Yama appears to be a man who not only ignores fear but seeks it out just to spit in its face.

Continue reading First-time scuba diving for under $100? Where in the world?

First-time scuba diving for under $100? Where in the world? originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 29 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discover scuba divingDiscoverScubaDivingscuba divingScubaDivingSat, 29 Aug 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't mess with Hawaii's coral reefs ]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/07/dont-mess-with-hawaiis-coral-reefs/http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/07/dont-mess-with-hawaiis-coral-reefs/http://www.gadling.com/2009/08/07/dont-mess-with-hawaiis-coral-reefs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Did you know that Hawaii is home to over 3/4 of America's coral reef? It's not that surprising considering the heaps of divers that make the trek across the Pacific every year to experience the state's special marine life. Hawaii's unique ecosystem is its main draw for tourists, and since the reef is just that precious the state has begun to tighten the reigns and give out hefty fines to those who are not responsible underwater.

According to a recent article in the New York Times, "Ruining Coral Draws Fines in Hawaii," fines of over $100,000 are being given to anyone who causes damage to Hawaii's reefs. There are also no exceptions to this new rule. The state plans to sue even the U.S. Navy over coral that was ruined when a guided missile cruiser ran aground near Pearl Harbor earlier this year. Another example: a Maui tour company is paying the state nearly $400,000 in fines for damaging more than 1,200 coral colonies when one of its boats sank at Molokini, one of the islands' most pristine reefs and most popular diving spots.

Continue reading Don't mess with Hawaii's coral reefs

Don't mess with Hawaii's coral reefs originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 07 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coral reefeco-travelenvironmental protectionEnvironmentalProtectionhawaiiMauioceanscubasnorkelFri, 07 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Creating the perfect "liecation" - and how to prevent getting busted]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/27/creating-the-perfect-liecation-and-how-to-prevent-getting-bu/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/27/creating-the-perfect-liecation-and-how-to-prevent-getting-bu/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/27/creating-the-perfect-liecation-and-how-to-prevent-getting-bu/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

So, you read our little story on the new trend of "liecations", and you too want to create your own little fake vacation? Well, even though the whole thing is incredibly tacky, and downright stupid, we know the economy is tough, and a trip abroad might not be possible this year.

Of course, the right thing to do is tell people you are staying home, but if the liecation trend is to be believed, there really are people out there that would rather lie than just chill out at home being honest.

To create the perfect liecation, you'll need to find the perfect balance between plausible lies, and downright pathetic lies. For example - don't claim you went on a 2 week safari to Kenya. The same applies to a liecation involving Mount Everest. European liecations are easy, as are any liecations in North America.

Before I erase whatever credibility I have - I have never lied about a trip, simply because I have never had the need to. I've always been lucky enough to get to my destination, whenever and however I wanted. However, don't let my honesty get in the way of your devious plan of creating the perfect 2009 liecation.



Continue reading Creating the perfect "liecation" - and how to prevent getting busted

Creating the perfect "liecation" - and how to prevent getting busted originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lieliecationliesMon, 27 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Brando eco-friendly beach resort to open in 2011]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/25/the-brando-eco-friendly-beach-resort-to-open-in-2011/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/25/the-brando-eco-friendly-beach-resort-to-open-in-2011/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/25/the-brando-eco-friendly-beach-resort-to-open-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Did you know that Marlon Brando owned (and now his estate owns) an entire French Polynesian atoll 35 miles from Tahiti? Did you also know that Brando dreamed of creating an eco-friendly resort on the atoll? Well both are true, and by 2011 Brando's dream will be a reality, thanks to Richard Bailey, CEO of Tahiti Beachcomber.

Bailey was a longtime friend of Brando's and had been working with him on the project before Brando's death in 2004. Bailey owns four InterContinental resorts in Tahiti and will use some of the same sustainable technology used at those resorts to make sure The Brando has as little impact on the surrounding environment as possible. One technology will use a pipe to bring cold water up from the depths of the sea and use it to provide cool air to the rooms - a practice that will have zero environmental impact.

The resort, which will be the only one on the 13-island chain of Tetiaroa that Brando bought in 1965, will feature 47 luxury villas, each with its own plunge pool, plus a spa, fitness center, and a resort pool. Activities at the resort will include snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring the nearby islands and Tahitian culture. No word on how much a stay at the luxury eco-resort will cost, but no one ever said saving the environment didn't come with a price.

[via ShermansTravel]

The Brando eco-friendly beach resort to open in 2011 originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoeco friendlyeco-friendlyEcoFriendlyenvironmentenvironmental impactEnvironmentalImpactenvironmentally friendlyenvironmentallyfriendlyfrench polynesiaFrenchPolynesiagreengreen hotelgreen hotelsgreen practicesGreenHotelGreenHotelsGreenPracticeshotelintercontinentalislandislandsluxuryluxury resortluxury resortsLuxuryResortLuxuryResortsmarlon brandoMarlonBrandoprivate islandprivate islandsPrivateIslandPrivateIslandssustainabletahitiSat, 25 Jul 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top ten European island beach destinations]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/20/top-ten-european-island-beach-destinations/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/20/top-ten-european-island-beach-destinations/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/20/top-ten-european-island-beach-destinations/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

European hotel booking site Trivago has compiled a list of the top ten most popular European island destinations.

The one thing these islands all have in common is amazing beaches. The lineup varies from the couples friendly island of Santorini, to the party capital of the world - Ibiza.

So, if you happen to be heading to Europe this summer, or just need to dream of a destination not commonly found on the "must visit" list of most Americans, check out the top ten lineup for some beachy inspiration.



Gallery: Top 10 European islands

MajorcaGran CanariaRhodesTenerifeIbiza

Top ten European island beach destinations originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beachbeachdaybeachesgran canariaGranCanariamallorcamenorcaMon, 20 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Budget adventures near New York]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/19/budget-adventures-near-new-york/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/19/budget-adventures-near-new-york/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/19/budget-adventures-near-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,

In these difficult economic conditions we're all looking for ways to save some money while still putting a little adventure into our lives. Now more than ever we need a distraction from the daily grind that won't empty our pocket books. Fortunately, the New York Daily News is here to help, with some great suggestions for cheap adventures close to NYC.

The inexpensive escapse come in a variety of flavors, ranging from an epic mountain bike ride in the Allegheny Mountains of Pennsylvania to taking in the beauty of upstate New York via hot air balloon. Each of the suggestions includes a nice description of what to expect on the day long adventure, as well as some tips for stretching your dollars, such as the use of budget hotels, complimentary continental breakfasts, and unadvertised specials.

An example of one of the unexpected outdoor adventures includes a trip to New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, which offers a tree-top canopy tour that put visitors at elevations between 1600 and 3000 feet as they fly through the scenic forest on ten zip lines and two suspension bridges. The travel package costs $115 but in addition to the canopy tour, travelers get a night's stay at the historic Mount Washington Resort, a round of golf, and a visit to the hotel's spa.

Each of the other budget adventures offer similar amenities on the cheap and with plenty of summer still ahead, it's never too late to put a little adventure into your life. And at these prices, how can you resist?

Budget adventures near New York originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 19 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelbudget-travelbudgettravelcanopy toursCanopyTourshot air balloonHotAirBalloonmountain bikingMountainBikingnew yorkNewYorkpaddlingsailingscubadivingSun, 19 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadlinks for Wednesday 7.15.09]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/15/gadlinks-for-wednesday-7-15-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/15/gadlinks-for-wednesday-7-15-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/15/gadlinks-for-wednesday-7-15-09/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Joyous hump day! I've never looked forward to Wednesday as I have this particular week. There's a good deel to look forward to when it comes to travel stories as well. Take these, for example.
More Gadlinks HERE.

Gadlinks for Wednesday 7.15.09 originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boondockingcampingdivinggadlinkslondon bridgeLondonBridgepoetryWed, 15 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Concierge.com reveals the sexiest beaches in the world]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/04/concierge-com-reveals-the-sexiest-beaches-in-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/04/concierge-com-reveals-the-sexiest-beaches-in-the-world/http://www.gadling.com/2009/07/04/concierge-com-reveals-the-sexiest-beaches-in-the-world/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Concierge.com just revealed their 2009 lineup of the 15 sexiest beaches in the world.

The list contains little bits of paradise from all over the world, including beaches in Italy, Mexico and even one in Cuba. With a little bit of luck this Cuban stretch of beach may be open for visitors from the US in the near future.

Their list is definitely worth visiting, even if it is just for the fantastic photos of the beaches (and the good looking people enjoying them).

Click here for their lineup of the 15 sexiest beaches in the world.

Have you been to any of these beaches? Any of them in the list that you'd really like to visit? Let us know in the comment section below!

Concierge.com reveals the sexiest beaches in the world originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 04 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beachbeachesSat, 04 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadlinks for Monday 6.29.09]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/29/gadlinks-for-monday-6-29-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/29/gadlinks-for-monday-6-29-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/29/gadlinks-for-monday-6-29-09/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,


Welcome to another glorious week of Gadlinks! It looks like the web is full of travel news and stories, so we're not short of interesting links. Here are a few to keep your juices flowing:
  • Matador and the Dir Journal explore abandoned cities in the world and discover the possible appeal of these places as travel destinations.
  • I love summer in small seaside towns. These places really come alive! If you're heading to the coast, consider staying in one of these seaside inns.
  • Take a narrative journey to the Scilly Isles 30 miles off the coast of Land's End. The place doesn't sound silly, though. It sounds purely magical.
  • What is the Mount Everest of scuba diving? Apparently, it's a sunken ship called the Andrea Doria. Getting there is supposedly just as dangerous as climbing Everest, except you're coming up for air instead of going back down.
'Til tomorrow, have a great evening!

For more Gadlinks, click HERE.

Gadlinks for Monday 6.29.09 originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gadlinksinnsscilly islesScillyIslesscuba divingseaside innMon, 29 Jun 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the Day (6.20.09)]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/20/photo-of-the-day-6-20-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/20/photo-of-the-day-6-20-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/20/photo-of-the-day-6-20-09/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Love 'em or hate 'em, jellyfish are some of the most photogenic underwater creatures around. I've heard so many interesting tales about jellyfish that it's no wonder we continue to be absolutely astounded by these transparent floaters. My friend once videotaped he and his friends swimming through a patch of jellyfish to an island off the coast of China, but when they came ashore they discovered the island was a high-security military base. They were forcefully interrogated, and the tape was destroyed.

While these creatures are a real treat to observe, as MadMurdoch shows us in this photo that was taken somewhere in Asia, they can actually be quite a nuisance for people in the water. Here in Hawaii, we experience potent box jellyfish outbreaks on the south shore a week after a full moon, which prevent swimmers from entering the water for a few days every month. On the east side, Portuguese man of war are so prevalent that peeing on your friend is a pretty common occurrence.

Still, the beauty of these jellyfish cannot be denied. I love how the bulbs of the jellyfish are bobbing every which direction as well as how clear the ocean is here.

If you have some great travel shots you'd like to share, be sure to upload them to the Gadling pool on Flickr. We might just pick one as our Photo of the Day!

Photo of the Day (6.20.09) originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 20 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jellyfishphotophoto of the dayPhotoOfTheDaySat, 20 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Five national parks to hit this weekend]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/18/five-national-parks-to-hit-this-weekend/http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/18/five-national-parks-to-hit-this-weekend/http://www.gadling.com/2009/06/18/five-national-parks-to-hit-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Yesterday we mentioned that the National Park Service has waived all entry fees to every national park this weekend, and while that may increase the crowds in places like Yellowstone and Yosemite, there are still plenty of great parks that you can visit that will remain quiet. Here are five suggestions on where to take dad this weekend and still avoid the crowds.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Located in the southwest corner of South Dakota, Badlands National Park offers spectacular scenery and a surprising array of activities to keep you occupied. The windswept landscapes range from towering jagged rock spires and winding canyons to open grasslands and and miles of prairie. The Badlands also contain a huge fossil bed dating back more than 30 million years, giving visitors the opportunity to peek back in time to an era when long extinct animals still roamed the area. Today, the park is home to a large herd of bison, plenty of big horn sheep, and the endangered black footed ferret, amongst other species of wildlife.

Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico
The National Park system is home to one of the most spectacular cave systems found anywhere in the world in the form of Carlsbad Caverns, located in the far southeast section of New Mexico. With its 94 individual caves, carved from the limestone that is prominent in the region, the Carlsbad Caverns are otherworldly in their beauty. The underground labyrinth is filled with narrow, twisting passages as well as large chambers and open passageways. Perhaps the most spectacular is the Big Room, which is 8.2 acres in size, handicap accessible, and well lit with electric lights. The more adventurous will want to sign up for one of the tours that will take them deeper into the Earth, where they'll make their way with headlamps into seldom visited dark crevasses.

Continue reading Five national parks to hit this weekend

Five national parks to hit this weekend originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTravelbackpackingbadlandscampingclimbingcongareecrater lakeCraterLakeglacier national parkGlacierNationalParkgreat basinGreatBasinhikinghiking trailsHikingTrailsnationalparksThu, 18 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Swim with sharks at Dubai mall]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/24/swim-with-sharks-at-dubai-mall/http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/24/swim-with-sharks-at-dubai-mall/http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/24/swim-with-sharks-at-dubai-mall/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Dubai just changed how we'll all look at malls forever. The Dubai Mall could have changed the rules simply by installing an aquarium and zoo ... or gone even crazier by putting sharks in the water. Hell, watching sharks swim is a great way to eat your Auntie Ann's pretzel. In Dubai, you can have your friend hold your pretzel while you put on a wetsuit and hop right in!

At the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo within the mall, visitors can slide into a 10 million-liter tank with sand tiger sharks, reef sharks and leopard sharks - not to mention giant groupers and stingrays.

Certified divers can arrive at the mall an hour before the dive (which lasts 20 - 30 minutes), while non-certified divers need to take a SCUBA course (noon on Thursday or Saturday). Certified divers will need to spend $225, with $300 for those who aren't certified.

Swim with sharks at Dubai mall originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 24 May 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aquariumaquariumsdivingdubaidubai mallDubaiMallscubascubadivingsharksharkszooSun, 24 May 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Adventure Destination: Easter Island]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/18/adventure-destination-easter-island/http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/18/adventure-destination-easter-island/http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/18/adventure-destination-easter-island/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Easter Island has always been a place of great mystery. Everyone is aware of the iconic stone faces that number more than 800 and stand as much as 10 meters in height and weighing in at nearly 75 tons. The figures were carved by inhabitants of the island between 1250 and 1500 AD, and their construction and transportation to various parts of the island, is still considered a remarkable feat.

The inhabitants who built the statues are a bit of a mystery themselves, and add to the mystique of Easter Island. They were a Polynesian tribe that immigrated to the island by boat across the Pacific Ocean, and over hundreds of years built up a substantial society before nearly disappearing from the place completely. What exactly happened to their society is still openly debated amongst historians and anthropologists. Many believe that the remote nature of island was their eventual undoing, as they deforested the entire place, leaving them with no natural resources. Some see it as a parable for what could happen to the planet as a whole.

Over the past few years, the island has become quite the adventure destination. It is widely considered the most remote, inhabited place on Earth, with its nearest neighbor being a tiny island called Pitcairn, which is home to just a few dozen people, and lies 1240 miles away. Easter Island falls under the jurisdiction of Chile and there are flights most days of the week.

Continue reading Adventure Destination: Easter Island

Adventure Destination: Easter Island originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 18 May 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure traveladventure-travelAdventureTraveleaster islandeasterislandhikingmountain bikingMountainBikingscubascuba divingScubaDivingtrekkingMon, 18 May 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Photo of the Day 5.11.09]]>http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/11/photo-of-the-day-5-11-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/11/photo-of-the-day-5-11-09/http://www.gadling.com/2009/05/11/photo-of-the-day-5-11-09/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



These days, I'm SERIOUSLY missing scuba diving -- it's been a year since I've been at a decent beach, and about 3 years since I strapped a can of air on my back. This fun shot captured by wetboxers of his divemaster in the Philippines has just about put me over the edge. *sigh*

If you've got some great travel shots you'd love to share, be sure to upload them to the Gadling pool on Flickr. We might just pick one as our Photo of the Day.

Photo of the Day 5.11.09 originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 11 May 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dive masterDiveMastergeo:39.527596 -99.141968scubascuba divingScubaDivingWhere:palawanMon, 11 May 2009 20:30:00 EST