Thursday, July 31, 2008

Voyage to Our Nation's Capitol

I'm off for a (hot and humid 100 degree) weekend in Washington, DC. So far the weather is holding up -- fingers crossed for a few more hours of sunshine before the rain clouds roll in.

Tomorrow we start our day at 10 a.m. at Sen. Edward Kennedy's office. We'll be getting a tour of the Capitol Building and then we're off to lunch at Union Station. By 2 p.m. we'll be at the International Spy Museum, where I will be taking deep breaths and repeating to myself "It's only a game, it's only a game," as I attempt to solve puzzles that will get me out of confined spaces and elevator shafts. Tomorrow night, dinner at one of Washington's best seafood restaurants, Tony & Joe's.

Going to be a long day on Friday ... but maybe it just be the effort I need to put forth in order to crash in bed later that night.

Talk to you Monday!

Must. Sleep. Soon.

I feel like I haven't slept in weeks. Months. I'm exhausted mentally and physically, but I can't get myself to rest. Thank goodness for adrenaline.

Leaving today at 3pm for flight to Washington, DC. Hope the weather maintains - supposed to be thunderstorms this afternoon, which would not be excellent news for the first-time flyers. Fingers crossed that the weather cooperates around our flight schedules.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Dead Body Found on Delta Airlines

This can't be good.

Seems the flight attendants found a woman's body in the bathroom lavatory on Delta Airlines flight 950 from Los Angeles to Atlanta. Authorities met the plane at the gate but no information on the passenger or cause of death has been released. Read the story

Confirming Your Confirmation Number

Update from the reader:
"I called the corporate office and got someone in their customer division and she issued the ticket!!! I laid out for her what had happened and ... that I considered it fraud if they didn’t issue the ticket and she went ahead and did it without comment."

While I'm disappointed this happened in the first place, I'm glad that USAir was able to rectify the situation. I stand by my earlier statement -- I believe the traveler unfortunately ended up with an untrained and uneducated customer service representative. It's no excuse, but at least a ticket has been issued and travel plans are well on the way.

-------------------------------------------

I received the following email this morning:

"I wonder if you can give me some help/advice. I booked a trip with USAIR using my frequent flyer miles...I have a confirmation number – which by the definition of the word is a confirmation that I can purchase this ticket at this price – or in this case miles.

But tonight when I called to purchase the ticket USAir told me that the agent made a mistake and should never have made the reservation – that I am not allowed a stopover and they would not honor the reservation or issue the ticket. This to me is fraud and I believe USAir needs to honor the reservation I made.

I just wonder when we are going to reach the limit of the airlines providing lousier and lousier service and getting away with it."

This is a horrendous thing for the airline to do. Once a ticket has been booked and a confirmation distributed the airlines cannot cancel your flight without rebooking for valid reasons. I suggested this reader call the corporate office first thing this morning -- it's likely she got a D-list employee on the evening shift when she called USAir last night. I have high hopes that the airline will rectify this situation... will keep you posted!

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

How Far Would You Travel For Love?

The winners of the travel story contest were announced today. I loved the story about the woman who traveled to New Zealand to meet a man who turned out a bit odd... Granted, I wouldn't have traveled halfway around the world for a date without at least knowing the man had all his toes.

Teaser: "At dinner one night I just happened to notice his bare feet and that they looked odd. He spoke up and told me his little toes were missing. I asked what happened thinking it was an accident. No, he replied, no accident, he had them removed because they were in his way!!" Read the entire vacation from hell story.

I also give kudos to the judges who chose the Africa vacation as a winner. The girl and her boyfriend spent time at a local orphanage helping kids whose parents died of HIV/AIDS. Inspiring!

Where to next?

On the Agenda: Washington, DC

Leaving in two days for our nations capitol, and one of my favorite places in the U.S. The travelers are excited -- first time on a plane and first time out of New England. How fun to be 11 and 13-years-old again. Here's what is on the agenda:

  • Arrive Thursday night and walk to Lincoln Memorial for a view of the proud president at dusk.
  • Take on a Trolley Tour Friday morning so kids can get a sense of what's what in DC.
  • After lunch, visit the International Spy Museum, where I will no doubt die (or some close to it) while trying to solve puzzles in an effort to get myself out of confined spaces.
  • Friday night - dinner at Tony & Joe's (the best seafood in DC).
Saturday and Sunday are to be determined, as is my packing list...

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Crosby, Stills and Nash Still Rocking

The perfect way to end a long week: a beer, a comfortable seat with a cup holder, David Crosby and his guitar (and Steven Stills and Graham Nash, of course).

The evening started with three women sitting outside sipping martini's and picking at sushi. Two hours later and not without our buzz on, we made our way to the Bank of America Pavilion. The atmosphere was perfect -- a mix of baby-boomers reliving their 60s and parents who are introducing their kids to one of the best bands of all-time. And the kids weren't only ones who had their first taste of CSN.

As we sat down in our comfy seats, placed our beers cozily in the cup holders, and eagerly awaited the first song of the night, our friend The Missus made the bold announcement, "I've never heard of CSN before, and I don't know any of their songs."

I WAS STUNNED!! Our friend Bail continued to laugh out loud while I explained to MFTM that CSN wasn't just "a band" but they were influential, inspirational and actually stood for something during a time when all things seemed lost. Just then, the three men appeared and started the concert with "Marakesh Express." MFTM turned to me and said, "Why are they singing about American Express? That's rather self-promotional for the sponsor, isn't it?" I do adore her.

The people sitting in front of us shared their CSN stories while their 20-year-old daughter listened intently to the soothing sounds of guitar melodies and David Crosby's crooning.

"I saw them in 1969 and the same month, I left for Vietnam," said the reminiscent man sitting in front of us. "They had a vision -they were the best band there was." We told him our friend was a CSN virgin and he sad, "Do yourself a favor. Go buy 'Deja Vu' -- it will change your life."

(And with that, I give you the plug of the day: CSN's Deja Vu.)

Finally, a song our dear friend knew -- "Love the One Your With." A concept that binds all generations.

Friday, July 25, 2008

Subtle (Secret) Sexiness

This was the best email of my day.

Subject: 12 hot hotels for a secret tryst
Body: GET A ROOM! World's Top 12 Hotels for an Affair.

(You know I clicked.)

Nice work, Concierge.com, for coming up with a truly salacious travel story. Here are a few tasty tidbits:

Hotel Sezz, Paris: There's a fair amount of shiny chrome and leather, which is hotel-speak for sex.

Lafayette House, New York City: Built in 1845, it's the kind of house you duck into, wearing a hat and maybe those short little gloves, to rush into your lover's arms and plot your spouse's untimely death.

Ivy Hotel, San Diego: Take the king-size bunk beds, which we glean are for a multiple-partner soiree... the bed frames made of shag carpeting so no one gets hurt.

Read on for more of Best Hotels for an Affair.
(photo courtesy of Concierge.com)

Go Forth on Friday

It's finally here - the end of the week.
So far, my last-day-of-the-work-week-from-hell has started off well.

I put on a pair of jeans this morning and found they are a little big in the booty (guess the gym is actually paying off).

I was going to treat myself to a fattening breakfast, but when I arrived at my favorite breakfast-lunch place in downtown, I learned they are now making egg white and cheese sandwiches. I was uber-excited and good news: They are excellent!

Tonight I have concert tix with some girlfriends -- Crosby, Stills & Nash. You can't get more mellow, really. I intend to sit back with a beer and groove to CSN... and breathe.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

I Will Survive

I survived car crashes (two of which I was in the driver seat).
I survived the Washington, DC sniper.
I survived major surgeries, and those surgeries of loved ones.
I survived a 6-seater plane pendulum-swinging through the air and flopping about while flying through a black cloud on its way to Boston.
I survived the police finding the remains of a congressional intern's dead body in a park only steps from my backyard while DC politicians were taken into custody and the media swarmed around my apartment building.
I survived the anthrax scare in Washington, DC.
I survived 32 years, so far.

I do not know how I'm going to survive this week at the office.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Simple Pleasures...

A new hair color.
A head massage at the salon.
People Magazine.
A phone call from an old friend.
Booking your birthday dinner with friends.
Getting on the scale and missing five pounds.
A rainy night and a cool breeze through the living room windows.
"Moonlight and Valentino" on DVD.

Wednesday is better... two more days until Friday.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Too Prude?

One of the many fascinating aspects of my job includes monitoring a few travel boards. I get to read about all the fascinating places and travel finds from people all over the world. It does come with a bit of power -- I am a moderator so I do get to approve, accept and ban people from the network. Although I do so very rarely. Today, however, was a high point in my editorial tenure.

This morning we had a new member (erm, bad word choice, but read on please) on our boards. His name is Tim and he's part of an association called the Gay Travellers Network. Tim has traveled all over the world and it was all captured in the 100-slide photo show that he posted with his profile. The photos were beautiful! Even the men in drag.

There was, however, one photo of question. It was of a naked man lying on his stomach sprawled out across the bed. To be perfectly honest, I found the photo rather artistic. I might have requested the nude man get a waxing, but to each their own.

However, this particular travel board is a family-friendly board and we do have rules and regulations about photos and nudity. And so, as the moderator, I penned the following note:

"Dear Tim,

Your pictures are beautiful and on behalf of our readership, I look forward to your stories and posts about the various adventures you’ve been on and the destinations where you’ve traveled. Unfortunately, there is one photo that needs to be removed. We encourage diversity and pictures of your travels, but please refer to the terms and conditions as to what is appropriate."

In other words:

"Dear Tim,

Please remove the naked photo of your post-coital friend from the site. While I find the photo artistic and believe you could bounce a quarter of the man's behind, soft-core porn isn't widely accepted on travel sites in the U.S. Personally, I find the photos of the men who are clearly past their prime and dressed in drag more offensive, but my bosses are likely to have a bigger problem with the bare butt. Thank you for understanding."

Tim replied:

"Coming from Europe, I find it strange that you're so peculiarly prudish in the US, as the content of photo concerned could easily appear in TV advertising or on a bus shelter billboard here advertising shower gel or aftershave. This level of nudity simply isn't an issue here...This is nothing personal, as you handled this politely."

Was Gay Tim right? Are we too prude in the U.S.? While I appreciate his acknowledgement that I was polite and it isn't personal, I had to wonder, "what was the big deal, anyway?" So the guy was naked. We've all seen naked pictures -- go to any PG-13 or higher-rated movie today and there's bound to be breasts and butts on screen. So what makes a travel message board any different?

In this case the answer is easy: It's a sponsored site, and the rules and regulations clearly state no nudity. But is it necessary to ask this member (word choice appropriate) to remove photos of his lifestyle because they might be offensive to others?

So Far, So Good Tuesday

I slept a little better last night, and I think that made all the difference.
Today, the US boss and I are taking out the UK boss and her husband. Should be fun and insightful. Everything is more fun and insightful with wine.

Monday, July 21, 2008

Day Almost Over

It's 7:38 p.m. om Monday -- the day is almost over and I can start over tomorrow. That is, if I can move tomorrow. I worked out with a trainer tonight and my arms are already sore and fatigued. That's good, right?

I've committed to losing an undisclosed amount of weight by Sept. 30. I won't disclose the amount of weight, because frankly, it's none of your business. But, I am committed to losing it and my trainer, I do believe, is also committed because she's beating the shit out of me three times a week.

Good Morning, Monday

I'm operating on approximately 3 hours of sleep.
My boss from London is in town this week.
I've already downed a venti iced coffee from Starbucks.
I need more caffeine.
Working out with the personal trainer tonight at 5:30.
Good morning, Monday. I need to go back to bed.

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Rocking the Spy World

I'm starting to put together the Washington, DC, trip plan. With an 11- and 13-year-old, plans are important. What to do? Where to go? When? Washington, DC has so much to offer, but proper planning (and avoiding lines, when possible) is key to this successful trip.

Enter: The International Spy Museum - where boys can be boys, and I can admire the cool gadgets and guns behind glass. I took it one step further and bought tickets to Operation Spy - and interactive 1-hour journey where you are the spy. This is so cool.

And then I read the following: "Participants will encounter some low light levels and confining spaces, an elevator..." There goes my idea of a good time. So I call my friend and tell her I'm not sure if I can do this.

The 11-year-old says out loud, "It won't be fun if you don't go."

Crap. I'm such a sucker. I spent $25 on an interactive tour that will undoubtedly cause me heart palpitations and a minor anxiety attack. But it won't be fun if I don't go.

Friday, July 18, 2008

Girl Scouts Gone Wild

Only in America... would a Girl Scout Ganga camp exist.

Police raided the marijuana farm being grown in a remote part of a Girl Scout camp in Warsaw, Ind. CBS news reports about 5,000 plants were being grown on the Girl Scout grounds.

Gives new meaning to the importance of Girl Scout Cookies. Thin mints are even better when you've got the munchies.

How Handbags Keep You Healthy

The handbag you carry says a lot about your personality, your lifestyle and also, you're health.

What women stuff into their satchels (or clutches, totes or shoulder bags) is a clear indicator on how she approaches her health, according to an article by Forbes.com.

Do you stuff your designer bag with useless crap or do you selectively choose pockets for your most personal belongings? You could be wistfully wasting your life away in designer heaven, or you might be one of the healthiest women walking the city.



So what's in your handbag? I'm considered "moderately heathly" by Forbes.com standards.
While the laptop and extra battery pack I carry around is a sure sign of a work-a-holic, the power bars, lip balm sunscreen, passport and whatever book I'm reading at the time (today, it's
Clapton: The Autobiography) means I'm also in tune with my own needs and ready to escape at a moment's notice (that would obviously be thanks to the passport).

Hot Time Summer in the City

It's oppressive, and it's going to get worse. The city is sweltering.
'Tis the weekend for dark movie theaters and air-conditioned restaurants.
Then again, do you really want to waste a summer day inside? We spend enough time indoors during the winter months.




When the sun gets going, the going get outside...

Maybe Castle Island, the Esplanade, or just the roof deck. Either way, I plan to soak up the sun before summer ends.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

The Things You Do For Love

There's a contest happening on a travel board and I've been reading the submissions. A post titled "Blind Date From Hell!!!" was posted in the "Vacations from Hell" category. This I had to read. As a woman who has been on many unfortunate blind dates from hell, I was already empathetic to this poster. But folks... there is a line, and while it's often a little blurry and hard to see, there comes a point where you decide to cross the line or stay safely on the other side. And this woman, I'm afraid, crossed the line.

Please read the post and then let's discuss. I'll get the discussion started with these talking points:
  1. Who takes their kids on a blind date, let alone a blind date on the other side of the world?
  2. The dude didn't have any pinky toes. Cut 'em off because they were "in the way." Anyone want to take this? Anyone???
  3. I wonder... who paid for the ticket?

Discuss...

Last Night on Larry King...

The talk show maestro hosted a kick-ass program last night with top members of the travel industry about what the airlines are doing to combat fuel prices.

A report hit the newsstands yesterday claiming that US Airways pilots were pressured to cut fuel on-board planes. This sent media moguls into a frenzy. Is it safe to fly? Will passengers be at risk? I received a few phone calls last night so I thought I'd take a moment and set the record straight, as I believe it to be.
  1. Airplanes are not going to fall out of the sky when the tank is on "E." IF airlines start using less fuel aboard planes, you can rest assured there will still be enough fuel to fly you to your destination. What it does mean is that the air traffic controllers will be under more pressure to get airplanes landed and get them off the runways, in an effort to help conserve fuel.
  2. Pilots are not going to fly a plane that doesn't have enough fuel on board to get them to their destination. As my Dad says, "The pilot cares about his own life. You can rest assured you're safe on his plane."
My advice? Find a good cheap airline ticket, pack your bags and go on vacation. There is enough fuel to fly -- it's just a little more expensive today then it was yesterday. You aren't going to be able to change the fuel crisis in America, but you can still afford to travel if you take time to research and make plans.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

When in Rome: The Movie

The powers that be at Walt Disney have added a little romantic comedy to my life, and they cast Kristin Bell as the lead.

When in Rome, a Walt Disney Pictures release, is due out this fall. The plot:

"A successful New York realtor can't find love, but when her younger sister marries in Rome, she flies out for the wedding and after picking up coins from a reputed "fountain of love," she finds an overabundance of suitors waiting for her back home."

Hm...

New York -- Boston. It's comparable. I would never go into real estate, but I guess the writer thing has been done already ala Carrie Bradshaw. I do have a younger sister, but since she refuses to leave the country and just experienced the travel day from hell, I doubt she would marry in Rome (it works for the whole plot of the movie...I get it).

I just returned from Rome and threw at least 3 pounds worth of coins into the 'fountain of love' and picked up a few coins while I was there, but there was no overabundance of men waiting for me back home. Just my landlord, who wanted the rent, and the neighborhood homeless guy who found the top step leading into my apartment building as a comfortable spot to sleep for the night.

So Walt Disney Pictures and Mark Steven Johnson, go for it! Turn my luck around with the release of a movie similar in too many ways to my life... and if you'd like, I'm happy to throw a few stories your way. When in Rome, you just never know what will happen...

I Wish I Were in Paris...

Some weeks are just tough and when the tough get going, my mind goes on vacation. I usually daydream of Paris.

This week I've made every effort to get to the gym every night after work. So far, so good. But then again, it's only Wed. I am finding that an evening workout helps me sleep better. Unfortunately, an article I'm writing for work is causing some chaos among the corporate big-wigs, so that slight anxiety is cutting through my good sleep pattern.

My budget plan is flawed. I was on an awesome path to paying off all my debt by the end of the year. Now, it looks like Feb-March 2009. My personal computer died last Thursday. Gone. Won't even turn on. Another expense added to my credit card.

I'm having a fat day. But, my hair looks good.

If I were in Paris, none of this would matter.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

'Ad' Something New to Your Boarding Pass

Advertisements are often a bold distraction to the ultimate prize. (My friends who are in advertising/marketing won't like that statement, but please read on.) However, thanks to advertising, some travelers will feel less of a pinch when they go to buy airline ticket. Some of the nation's largest airlines are using advertisements as a way to offset fuel prices and avoid charging the consumer.

Sojern Inc. is selling the ads to airlines and those airlines who participate in the ad program will share the profits equally. Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Northwest Airlines, US Airways Group Inc., Continental Airlines Inc. and United Airlines have signed up to use the ads as a revenue generator. But those consumers who still can't stand the sight of an ad can breathe easy, you'll have the option to print your boarding pass with or without the ads.



The new ads will start appearing in the upcoming months. Sojern says it's not ready to tailor the ads to individuals, but never say never...

So, what ads would you want to see on your boarding pass?

Monday, July 14, 2008

An Unfortunate Travel Story

This is a story about my sister and her 24 hours of travel hell.
It started in Boston.

She arrived at the airport at 3 p.m. for her 5 p.m. direct fight home. She was scheduled to be home by 10 p.m. Plans: let the dogs out and go to bed. Instead, she stood in a line for over an hour at the airline agent desk -- her 5 p.m. flight had been cancelled. The reason? Mechanical issues. She was given two options: a direct flight the next morning at 6 a.m. or a connecting flight in just a few hours that would get her home around the same time as she planned. While sis doesn't love to travel, she chose the connecting flight -- sometimes you just want to be home.

Through security and on her way to the gate...

Two hours pass by and the new flight is still not at the gate. She collects her things and finds an agent to help her. Apparently, the plane scheduled to take her to Chicago (first leg of the flight) is "on its way" but because there is bad weather approaching, the airlines aren't sure if it will leave Boston. However, there is another flight that is leaving in an hour for New York and she can get a connecting flight home from LaGuardia. It was a viable option and she took her chances.

Two hours later, the connecting flight to LGA finally landed. Sis made her way to the next gate, where she was to board her flight home. The plane, alas, is not there. After about an hour the airline agent comes on the loud speaker and announces, "The plane is on its way but it was diverted. It should be here in about an hour and if weather permits, we'll have you out of here shortly after it lands." I suggested at this point she get re-booked on a flight for the next day and head to our cousin's house for the night. After a few minutes of deliberation, she agreed this was the best option and asked the agent rebook her on a direct flight for the next morning.

Sis grabbed her bags and headed to baggage claim where she would grab a Yellow Cab to Long Island. A man approached her and asked, "Do you need a cab?" She said yes and they were on their way... to the garage, where a black van was waiting.

"I'm not going with you," my sis calmly stated and started walking back toward the airport. Apparently, this upset the strange man. He started yelling at my sister (which I have a HUGE problem with) and my sister (already at her wit's end) yelled back,

"If you come one f---ing step closer to me I will scream my f---ing head off and you don't want to f--k with me right now, asshole." (Mental picture: my sister is 4'11" and maybe 100 pounds so words like this are serious coming from a little thing like sis.) This four-letter word tangent sent the strange men back to his van and my sister made it safely back to the airport baggage claim. She found a legitimate Yellow Cab and took the $100 cab ride to my cousin's house in Long Island.

It gets worse...

After a good night's sleep, my sister is on her way to the airport where she's prepared to board her 8:55 a.m. direct flight home. Unfortunately, due to bad weather, she didn't arrive at the airport until 8 a.m. She ran to security and was told, "Sorry Ma'am, this is just a receipt. You need to get a ticket from the agent counter."

At this point, she is not making her flight. She arrives at the agent desk and the agent tells her,

"It says you've already used this ticket."

To which my sister replied, "If I had already used this ticket, I'd be home by now."

The agent gladly re-booked her for the 10:45 a.m. flight, which left at 1:15 p.m. I'm happy to report that my sister is safe at home and sleeping soundly.

Airlines Ask Passengers for Help

Last week, a majority of U.S. airlines sent around a note to travelers asking to push Congress on oil prices. is the open letter from the leaders of the U.S. airline industry.

An Open letter to All Airline Customers:

Our country is facing a possible sharp economic downturn because of skyrocketing oil and fuel prices, but by pulling together, we can all do something to help now.

For airlines, ultra-expensive fuel means thousands of lost jobs and severe reductions in air service to both large and small communities. To the broader economy, oil prices mean slower activity and widespread economic pain. This pain can be alleviated, and that is why we are taking the extraordinary step of writing this joint letter to our customers. Since high oil prices are partly a response to normal market forces, the nation needs to focus on increased energy supplies and conservation. However, there is another side to this story because normal market forces are being dangerously amplified by poorly regulated market speculation.

Twenty years ago, 21 percent of oil contracts were purchased by speculators who trade oil on paper with no intention of ever taking delivery. Today, oil speculators purchase 66 percent of all oil futures contracts, and that reflects just the transactions that are known. Speculators buy up large amounts of oil and then sell it to each other again and again. A barrel of oil may trade 20-plus times before it is delivered and used; the price goes up with each trade and consumers pick up the final tab. Some market experts estimate that current prices reflect as much as $30 to $60 per barrel in unnecessary speculative costs.

Over seventy years ago, Congress established regulations to control excessive, largely unchecked market speculation and manipulation. However, over the past two decades, these regulatory limits have been weakened or removed. We believe that restoring and enforcing these limits, along with several other modest measures, will provide more disclosure, transparency and sound market oversight. Together, these reforms will help cool the over-heated oil market and permit the economy to prosper.

The nation needs to pull together to reform the oil markets and solve this growing problem.
We need your help. Get more information and contact Congress by visiting http://www.stopoilspeculationnow.com/.

See the official letter

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Oy, With the Airlines!

After a relaxing weekend in upstate New York, my sister and I enjoyed a liesurely drive back into the city. We stopped at a few outlet shops, drove into the city and with time to spare we took a detour to pick up some bagels and nosh at Kupel's for her flight home. When I purchased the little darling's airline ticket, I had to throw all fear of cost out the window -- my sister doesn't do flying, so it's all about ease, comfort and direct-flights for her. The total cost was approximately $250 more than if she had booked a connecting flight, but hey - we all have our fears. AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT, the airlines screwed with us today.

Turns out the airline cancelled her direct flight home today. Even though I paid MORE for her to fly direct, they rebooked her on a connecting flight. Under most circumstances, this would be fine. But if you have a fear of flying, taking TWO planes ... well, you might as well be flying into hell.

Oy, with the airlines --WHY? WHY must it be so complicated? It was such a lovely, relaxing weekend. Now, my darling little sis is getting sloshed in an airport bar in hopes of forgetting that she has to connect to another plane in just a few hours.

(If I knew this would happen, I would have saved $250 and booked the connecting flight and just handed her a $20 for a few cocktails at the airport bar.)

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Traveling Back in Time...Bon Jovi Style

I'm off for the weekend and won't post again until Sunday night, so I leave you with this awesomeness.

Bon Jovi was in town last night and sadly, I did not see the concert. So out of respect for the band - to show my Bon Jovi support - I devote today to Bon Jovi. Let's take a trip back...

To 1989...The MTV VMAs. The performance that started the "Unplugged" series.
Rock on.



Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Facing Fears: Claustrophobia

I hate elevators, small spaces and rooms packed with people. When Italy won the World Cup two summers ago and everyone crowded the streets to celebrate, I attempted to claw my way out of the masses of people. Thankfully, my one friend pulled me back in (for fear that I was going to get trampled on) and guided me through the crowd.

Today I learned that our corporate summer outing will force me to face my fear once again. I am a team player, but before I get my game on for this team adventure I will throw back a couple cocktails (or an anti-anxiety pill). We're heading into The TOMB.

Apparently, the TOMB is a great "team building" experience that puts you "head to head with Pharaoh" and "presents a mind-bending adventure of sights, sounds and action that's sure to get under your skin!"


I called the TOMB and bluntly asked, "What is the alternative for people who are claustrophobic?" The manager told me that aside from the one room where the ceiling comes down on you, it's not really all that bad.

Lovely.

Eiffel Tower Gets a Makeover

My favorite landmark is getting a makeover, thanks to the $267 million dollars its directors were just awarded. The Eiffel Tower welcomes nearly 7 million visitors a year and over the next 10 years, it's going to get stronger, shinier and all-around more beautiful for its future guests.

The ultimate goal of the Eiffel Tower makeover: To make visiting the grand structure a more pleasant experience for travelers by allowing visitors to reserve time slots for sightseeing and improving its disabled access entrance.

Late Night in the City

The heat is scorching in Boston this week. My window unit a/c is working the best it can to keep the place cool, but sometimes even an air-conditioner can't cool the place entirely. Thankfully tomorrow the heat is supposed to break. In the meantime, I'm trying to stay cool with the shades drawn and the lights off.

Last night was one of those odd nights in the city where all things weird seemed to happen. I was up watching the 11 p.m. news. The lead story: Police Release Sketch of Neighborhood Attacker. Yet another summer-of-fear in the 'hood, where women walk around looking over their shoulders and men peer out of windows and cars attempting to question anyone who looks suspicious. Sometimes I hate being alone in my apartment in the dark. Then the phone rang.

A cab driver, I think, is calling me from my friend's phone. He wants to know where I live so he can drop off the phone. No, I tell him. Just hold on to the phone and we'll pick it up in the morning. He's insistent and starts yelling. I hang up. Then I worry -- what if something has happened to her?

The past week, Boston has been witness to a number of attacks and murders; I'm concerned, and also paranoid. But then, I know this friend. It's very likely she took a cab home from the gym and left her cell phone in the cab, and since she doesn't use her cell phone that often she probably didn't panic like I would over not having the cell phone, so the story is pretty valid. Will wait until the morning -- she'll work out the details then.

Something is crawling around the alley below and the noise is seeping through my bedroom window. Another restless night's sleep in the city...

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

New Obsession: Occasiontherapy Spritzers

These all-natural occasion-specific aromatherapy spritzers are the perfect little addition to your work bag. They are made with all-natural ingredients and pure essential oils so you know it's safe for your body.

I have the Working Girl Energizing Mist and Jet Set Girl Travel Mist and I'm addicted to them both. The Jet Set Girl is the perfect after-gym work-out mist, because it combines lavender with bergamot for a complete calming experience. It also doubles as a super room/linen spray when you're stuck in hotel rooms. Consider it...

Monday, July 7, 2008

Rich People Who Suck

I'm all for making good money and spending it well. But, I cannot tolerate people who make that kind of money and then treat lower-income people with disrespect. And so, I bring you a new segment of the travel blog: Rich People Who Suck

Take for example this angry first-class passenger, who threw his patience out the door when some economy class passengers exited the plane before him. The Delta Airlines flier on a flight from New York to Guyana became so irate at the lower class class passengers that he used the emergency exit hatch to escape the plane via the emergency slide.

People PLEASE!!!

Dear Mr. Asshole Airline Flier,

If you're so intent on using your wealth to gain status consider some alternate flying options. Charter a plane or buy your own! That way, you can be certain you get off the plane first. The rest of us can breathe easy knowing you're not screwing with the emergency exits on board commercial flights. I hope you're never on one of my flights. If you are and there actually is an emergency and I'm the one in an exit row that has to pull the exit hatch and release the chute, you can be certain you'll be the last one off the plane.

Sunday, July 6, 2008

Travel Within

"A man travels the world over in search of what he needs and returns home to find it."
--George Moore, writer

Sometimes, the best weekends are spent at home enjoying quality time with your surroundings. I enjoyed a weekend in bed -- I finally slept well after weeks of restlessness and anxiety -- and spent a total of six hours at the gym. My head is clear, my body feels good and I feel prepared for Monday morning. Nothing can replace experiencing first-hand new cultures and countries, but sometimes a little soul-time is needed to cleanse and rejuvenate.

Friday, July 4, 2008

Things to Do on July 4 When it Rains

It's hard to watch fireworks in the pouring rain. Not only does it decrease the shock-and-awe value of the firework's colors and grandeur, but you end up squinting half the time to avoid raindrops in your eyes and if you're not standing in a good spot, you could find yourself sinking further into the ground as the grass turns to mud. Not a fun night.

So what do you do when it's going to rain on July 4? Here are some fun around-the-town ideas to keep you in a celebratory mood, without getting wet (unless, of course, you choose to get wet):


  1. Drink red, white, and blue drinks. This can be anything from smoothies to pina coladas and strawberry daiquiris. Dress up a daiquiri with fruit to make it more festive, and if you're feeling cheesy, replace the drink umbrella with an American flag.

  2. Go shopping. Why not? Retailers always have sales on July 4 and you can make it festive by only buying red, white and/or blue clothing. (If you're in need of jeans, this is an awesome way to justify the purchase).

  3. Call your friends and find a cafe/bar with covered outdoor seating. Grab a table early in the night and just hang out. Watch the swarms of wet people walk by -- the ones who thought it might not rain, even though the forecast all week has called for storms -- and enjoy being dry and comfortable.

  4. For the roofdeck/patio crowd, turn on the radio and put the July 4th celebrations in your backyard (or on your roof). You avoid the crowds and still get to hear the festivities.

  5. Get a good movie and stay dry in the comfort of your own home. Some good July 4th movies include: Independence Day, Born on the 4th of July, Sweet Liberty, An American Tale (for those with kids).

I'll likely be partaking in #5 (after I attend a friend's BBQ) and it's entirely possible I'll watch An American Tale and even more likely that I'll enjoy it for the umpteenth time.

Enjoy the holiday! Be safe and don't forget to celebrate your Independence Day!

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Lauren's Hope: Fashion for the Medically Challenged

If I have to have a heart condition, I'm going to have it in style. I mean really... no one wants to have a medical condition. After a year of denying it I've finally come to terms with the fact: For better and worse, I have an irregular heart beat. Nothing uncommon, but yes, medication is necessary. So fine... I've accepted it and I'm taking my medication and bla, bla, bla.

This week my doctor lowered the next boom. "You really should wear a medic alert tag," she said.

OH COME ON!! The last thing I want to do is draw attention to the fact that I have this heart condition. Now I have to walk around parading it on my wrist or neck to "alert" others I have a heart condition. My doctor had a good point, though. I do travel a lot and mostly to foreign countries and God for bid something should happen, it's good to alert those who might not speak my language that I have a "condition."

Enter: Lauren's Hope. The company was founded for little Lauren Phillips, who at 16-years-old was very upset she had to wear a medic alert tag to identify her diabetes. Fashion is a big deal for teenagers, and so Lauren's Hope was born. The company makes "fashionable" medic alert bracelets using various different beads, ropes, chains and stones.

Check out a few of their fashions. Now that I've admitted I'm medically-challenged, I might as well wear my challenge in style!!

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

TSA Body Scanners: The New Wave of Privacy Invasion

No one's private parts are safe from airport security, now! Our friends at the TSA chose Boston's airport to install body scanners as a security measure.

The X-Ray machines will see right through clothing and can detect if a traveler is hiding a concealed weapon under their clothes or in their private areas. The Boston Globe writes, "The scanners produce three-dimensional images of people's naked bodies, but the agency says procedures have been modified to protect passenger privacy." The machine blurs the face of the passenger.

The article also goes on to explain that the X-Ray machine can gather detailed images like muscle definition on a person's body. So if you can see my muscles, you must also be able to see my lady bits, and I don't know if I'm OK with that, TSA.



Do you feel like this is an invasion of your privacy? Good news! You can refuse to walk through the X-Rays. Instead, you'll be treated to a pat down and screening with a handheld metal detector. Choose your evil, travelers! You can have your insides shown on a screen for all to see or you can get a full body pat down and a metal detector up your yahoo.

Let me clear the air, though. I'm not opposed to better security practices. I think they are necessary, but unfortunate. You want to scan my shoes? Fine. You want me to remove liquids from my bags? Fine. You want to scan my jewelry? Fine. You want to capture a digital image of my insides? I'm not so fine. Furthermore, what is the TSA saying about radiation issues? Pregnant women shouldn't be exposed to radiation, so in order for them to fly they are now subject to pat downs and wands?

I'm going to say it, and I expect I'll be bashed up one side and down the other for saying it, but I'm going to say it: What are the chances a TSA officer gets a good laugh during the day at these photos? How many of these digital images end up in files for future viewing?

The TSA will say their employees are trained professionals who adhere to the strictest rules and regulations. Well, TSA, if that's so then why are we in this position to begin with? The following is what I don't want to hear:

  • TSA officials don't make any money.
  • TSA officials are overworked.
  • TSA officials have to lot to deal with during the security process.
We can all file these same complaints about our jobs. My sister just graduated from her medical assistance program. She doesn't make any money, yet she works all day with cancer patients. We're all overworked and overtired -- it's the American way -- but I'm not going into people's desks, bags and medicine cabinets.

So, yes, I do have a problem with these scanners. As a "professional traveler," so to say, I'm used to just about every glitch in the system. I can easily go with flow and honestly, I don't mind rules - they are necessary to keep order and I'm all for them.

At this point, however, we might at well just strip naked and walk our bodies through security, no?

The World is a Happy Place (Sort of...)

Good news, Earthlings!

LiveScience.com reports a new study has shown that happiness is on the rise around the world. Here's the skinny:

Researchers asked 350,000 people in 52 countries, "Taking all things together, would you say you are very happy, rather happy, not very happy, not at all happy?" And, "All things considered, how satisfied are you with your life as a whole these days?"

(Dear Researches, those are two very broad questions. But, ok...)

The answers were placed on a "Happiness Index" and according to the most recent survey, the happiness meter rose between 1981 and 2007.

So what country is the "happiest"? That's Denmark, where apparently we should all be traveling to this coming year. Denmark has ranked number one on the charts for years and I say, if they are all so damn happy I want to know why. What does Denmark have that I don't? Or, what is Denmark using that I'm not...

The most unhappy place on Earth? Zimbabwe. America ranks number 16 and the same study found that it's the Baby Boomer generation who is bringing us down. Apparently, "Baby Boomers are generally miserable compared to other generations."

Well, that's a pretty bold statement. I don't think my parents are generally miserable. I certainly don't think their friends are miserable. Granted, this is the same generation who practiced what to do in the event Cuba actually fired missiles against the U.S., and then this same generation grew up to fight in Vietnam. I can understand if there is a little residual annoyance left over from their hardships. I think it's fair to give them a curve on this test, but to call them "generally miserable" is a bit much, no?

The new survey also finds that people who live in rich countries are happier than those who live in poor countries. What a fascinating finding... (she said sarcastically while she read the study again to make sure this was actually printed).

So there you have it folks. Out of a possible 52 countries, America ranked a meager 16 in terms of happiness. It's time to ask yourself, "All things considered, how satisfied are you with your life as a whole these days?" If the answer is "not very", maybe it's time you head to Denmark.

AT&T: New iPhone, No Contract

AT&T announced today they will sell the Apple iPhone without a contract. That means the devout iPhone consumer can purchase the phone from AT&T with AT&T service but without signing an agreement. But there's a catch: the price of the iPhone just jumped two-fold without the contract.

According to previously stated reports, the two new models of iPhones will go on sale this month for $199 and $299, depending on the amount of memory. You can grab the iPhones at that price if you sign a two-year AT&T contract. Don't want a contract with AT&T? Prepare to pay $599 and $699.

Would someone please tell me what the upside to this is? Either way, aren't you paying out the ass for an iPhone?