Promissed new stuff so here it goes:

1. Wanna fly better? Well we got good news for you because it willbe possible very soon.

In the ongoing game of creative airline seating, Air New Zealand is introducing a welcome option in the economy section of its new long-haul airplanes. Some seats at the back of the plane will feature a footrest of sorts that can be raised like a recliner to create a platform for sleeping.

The comfier seats are one of many interesting ideas floating around to make flying a little more bearable. From simple things like leaving middle seats empty to designing staggered seats to exploring ultra-creative ideas like putting beds on planes, airlines and designers are rethinking the passenger experience. Unfortunately, many of these ideas are limited to the front of the airplane where first- and business-class passengers sit.

Read here the rest of the article.

2. You want to visit Amsterdam but you are not sure. Here you can find some nice advices (tips and tricks style ).

Here’s another thing that you might not immediately notice on your own. The entire city center (the tourism area) is dominated by 17th Century canal houses mixed in between hotels and retail districts, and it might not occur to you that this important European capital should also be packed with office buildings like the rest of them. But the city planners wisely decided to put the office complexes in other areas, in order to not make competition for real estate so crazy that all hotels would have to charge a fortune.

So the end result is that companies like Heineken, ING Group, Philips, and ABN-Amro, are all located in these business parks that are planned surrounding train stations just outside the city. That 6-story bicycle parking structure? It’s packed with bikes of people who live in the city and take the train one stop out to their office job. This is another unusual aspect of this city that makes visiting more pleasant, and actually a bit cheaper as well.

3. And I am thinking that it is posible that Amsterdam is not your style and you want something more exotic like this rainy places.

There are amazing rainy places in the world that you have to see. Based on the information got from the wikipedia the places that get the most of the rain in the world are Cherrapunji – India, Mount Wai’ale’ale – Hawaii, and Tutunendo – Colombia.

Mount Waiʻaleʻale records an average rainfall of about 426 inches since the year 1912. The highest rainfall in this place is recorded at 683 inches in the year 1982. This mount is considered as one of the wettest places. This is found at an elevation of 5148 feet which is the second highest point in the Kaua’i islands of Hawaii.

Hello everybody! I am so very sorry because I haven’t posted in a while now but I can tell you that I am back on track ready for some blogging and some more travel-related links!

Also, if you have some nice articles that should be here – on this blog, do not hesitate to leave a comment with the link!

Thank you all so much!

The first link for today is, as you can guess, to our website! YES SIR! The project is finished (or almost – we are still taking in consideration your feedback and we are doing our best to improve our website). Slimelephant is the place where you can find all the nice custom made souvenirs. So, you are a traveler, just like me, you like to buy nice stuff from the places that you visited? Me too! I always have one problem: the stuff I buy are all the same (or they look alike).

What do you think? Will you use a website like this? Do you find it interesting?

Ok…. and I was just kidding. For today this is the only – daily trip link . I will be back tomorrow with some nice links and some other surprises!

P.s – Check out the review that killerstartups wrote.

For today I have:

1. Some interesting facts about Iceland.

Most Icelanders do not have a family name (such as Johnson, Smith, etc). So children have a given name and then father’s-name-son or father’s-name-daughter. Thus:

1. Jon has a son named Thor Jonsson and a daughter named Hafdis Jonsdottir.
2. Thor Jonsson has a son named Bjarni Thorsson and a daughter named Frida Thorsdottir.
3. And so forth.

Icelandic women don’t take the husband’s name when they marry, chiefly because the husband doesn’t have a family name to take.

Because they don’t have surnames, Icelanders are listed in the telephone directory alphabetically by first name.

2.  A top of the best 25 castles in Europe. (I will put them on my list for the Euro-trip)

There is something about castles that inspires awe and at the same time touches a gentler, more romantic side in each of us. And if you want to visit some of the best castles in the world, then Europe should be your destination as this continent certainly has more than its share. Here are the top 25 castles in Europe, in no particular order.

Peles Castle in Romania
Known as one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, Peles Castle can be discovered in the majestic Carpathian Mountains, near the town of Sinaia, Romania. There are 168 rooms in the castle and only 35 are accessible to the public. Recommended rooms include Holul de Onoare, Sala Mare De Arme, Sala De Teatru and Salonul Turcesc . Unfortunately, guided tours are only available of the ground and first floors. Peles Castle is a must-see destination in Romania.

At number 8 you will find Bran Castle.

3.  And for some awesome pictures from Paris you must visit this site.My favourite (I think) is the 2nd.

The intricate ceiling of the Appolo Gallery at Paris’ Louvre Museum is reflected in a display case in the foreground. Built in 1661, the gallery was not fully completed until 1851. In all, over twenty artists worked on the decoration. The Appolo Gallery gallery contains more than two centuries of French art, and houses such wonders as the French Crown Jewels, including the famous Régent (140 carats) and Sancy (53 carats) diamonds, as well as the 105-carat Côte de Bretagne ruby.

One of the best things about the internet is the fact that you can find a lot of nice things. And when it comes about traveling all the information that you can get is useful.

1. 8 Tools to Help You Travel Forever and Live Rent Free is an article I come acros by mistake on Stumble Upon.

So you’ve decided to do it. You have a friend or family member who can store your belongings for an undetermined period of time, you’ve tied up loose ends, and your bags are packed. It’s time to start traveling long term!

But now what? You have a few family members and distant friends who have offered up a couch if you’re in their neck of the woods, but surely they won’t appreciate your arrival on their doorstep with no planned departure date in sight.

I don’t know what to say about that but hey, that is an option.

2. Planning a trip? You should try the Azores – one of the nicest travel destinations.

The Azores are a Portuguese archipelago comprised of nine volcanic islands that have a somewhat tropical feel with European characteristics. The main problem you’ll encounter is deciding which islands to visit. Don’t worry. You’ll be drawn to return in which case you can visit the islands you missed on your first trip.

Ok! Now I know where I am going soon.

3.  Do you think that there are to many conflicts in the world? Well you can try living in one of these 10 places (Switzerland and 9 others).

Where would you be the safest if World War 3 broke out tomorrow? Perhaps it’s a grim subject, but safety and distance from world conflict can be a motivating factor in your choice to expatriate. At the very least, conflict around the world can weigh heavy on the soul, and it’s nice to know there are some places still left in the world where you might be left in peace. Thus, we’ve assembled a list of the 10 best places to live if you want to escape world conflict.

1. A series of some nice pictures: Buddhas statues

Practiced by perhaps 230 to 500 million people around the world, Buddhism is based on the premise that sentient beings can be released from the cycle of suffering through rebirth (be nice, don’t come back as an ant!). These statues represent numerous ways that Buddha is represented in a variety of cultures

2. I come over this website with outdoor pictures. They are really nice, you might like them a lot.

3. And since sometimes we ask ourselves what is ethic and what is not I can only help you with this article: 10 ethical places to travel.

The U.S. based group Ethical Traveler has come up with a list of ten developing nations it considers ethical destinations for 2010 travel, based on everything from promoting natural environments to building tourism industries that benefit locals. Here’s their list of most ethical developing countries to visit next year, in alphabetical order.

1. Argentina: Outstanding water quality. Committed to zero net deforestation and conserving a million hectares of the Atlantic Forest.

2. Belize: World’s second largest barrier reef and extensive, diverse tropical rainforests. The group Freedom House gave Belize the highest possible rating in political rights.

3. Chile: Outstanding air quality. Working on sustainable tourism for Easter Island. Some of the highest levels of personal safety in South America.

Ohh I am so excited on what i discoverd today:

1. World’s Most Extraordinary Swimming Pools . I like to swim! A lot! So be a part of  my happiness.

Be it for location, design or size, these pools are more than just enclosed bodies of water intended for swimming – as put in a definition. These extraordinary pools give a whole new meaning to swimming. In some cases you would have to be super rich to dip yourself in the luxurious waters, but a few of them are set in amazing sceneries, open to the public, and quite inexpensive.

2. Interested in traveling? You have to check out this article: 40 Most Useful Travel Websites That Can Save You a Fortune

Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank (in fact, you can travel for free), and there are plenty of places that’ll help you find the best vacation for your budget. Get discounts and the insider scoop with these great resources. Don’t forget to ask for free travel upgrades.Find the best rates for airlines and places to stay, no matter what type of traveler you are. Choose from hotels, hostels, hometels, or even just a couch. Interested in offering your place to a weary traveler? Get some tips on how to host a traveler in your home.

3.  And how did I missed this until now: the most beautiful island on planet and the best photos here I give you: Bora Bora!

Bora – Unquestionably the most mythical of the Pacific islands remains the island of all dreams.

The legends, mysteries, and romance associated with the words “Bora Bora” bring an almost mystical presence to the island. The island, located about 230 kilometres northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef.

Bora Bora is predestined for snorkeling and scuba diving in and around its lagoon.

Made famous by books, movies, and its stunning beauty, the island is now besieged by tourism and overcrowding. Regardless, if you must visit a South Pacific island (and you should), Bora Bora would be an excellent choice.

Are you a backpacker or the kind of person who takes everything while traveling?

Well this doesn’t really maters as long as you read 100+ Things to Know If You’re Going to Italy

Part 1: GENERAL ADVICE AND TRAVEL TIPS

1. Don’t go off the beaten path before visiting the “holy trinity”: Rome, Florence and Venice. These cities are truly remarkable and you don’t want to miss them.
2. Nevertheless, make time to spend a few days outside the major cities. Real Italy is in the small towns!
3. Tuscany is wonderful. There are hundreds of small wonderful medieval villages and plenty to see. However, Italy is a lot more than Tuscany. From the hills of Langhe to the trulli of Puglia, going through the culinary haven of Romagna, you will find fewer tourists and a wonderful land to discover!
4. Tipping is not required. Service staff gets paid as high as entry level engineers do. In particular, tipping people you personally know is considered offensive. In general, the attitude toward tipping is that you can’t buy a person off, so be mindful if you decide to tip.
5. Pick pocketing is an issue in larger metropolitan areas like Rome and Venice, but it’s not any worse than New York City, London or Paris.
6. Newspaper are bought daily at the edicola (newspaper stand), and delivery of newspapers is rare. Edicole are very common and open everyday, and as much part of the typical Italian morning routine as stopping to the bar to order an espresso.
7. Watch the street billboards for advertisement of “Feste” or “Sagre”, street fairs usually dedicated to one food. If one is close by your location at the time you’re there, don’t miss it- they’re wonderful events gathering people from the various towns and serving thematic foods!
8. Dates are shown as day-month-year, always.
9. Times are indicated in 24-hr format.
10. And yes, we’re metric!
11. You push to enter a place, and pull to get out. Exactly the opposite as in America!
12. Airport and rail stations have public restrooms, often with attendants who expect to be tipped. If someone is guarding the door of the restroom, you’re expected to leave a few coins.
13. Restrooms in all bars and cafes are for customers only. Order an espresso and only afterward head to the toilet!
14. In public restrooms, toilet paper is a rarity. Italian women always keep a travel pack of Kleenex in their purses for this reason.
15. You can’t walk in a church with a tank top or with shorts on. You need to be properly dressed to visit most holy places.
16. Credit cards are not widely accepted. You can’t pay anything that is less than 10 Euros with a credit card, and even then you’re going to be frowned upon. Always bring cash with you!
17. Public phones are now officially extinct. You will need to carry a cell phone for anything you need, from calling the hotel to reserve a restaurant. If you’re going for a brief stay, use your US cell phone and get a calling card. If you’re planning a longer trip, look into getting a SIM card and use it with your (unlocked) US phone- most cell phone calling contracts in Italy are prepaid services, so no need to lock in a plan!
18. When using an Italian cell phone, all incoming calls are free

2. For the backpackers I have this article. What do you think?

Backpacking and Australia really is like fish and chips, or fush and chups for you weird people in New Zealand. Australia hit gold when backpackers started descending upon the country.

Everything about Australia made for the ultimate destination to travel to and backpacker tourism helped Australia’s economy to grow. Australia topped the lists of top destinations to visit time and time again but recent years have seen a shift in where backpackers are choosing to travel to thanks to economic fluctuations and evolving travel trends. This then leads me to ask the question, has Australia lost it’s shine for backpackers or will it always hold the crown and appeal of the ultimate backpackers destination?

3. If you travel with your family I am sure that you have a lot of things to take with you. So, this might help you at least a little. Holiday Travel Tips: Making Road Trips Safe And Fun For The Family

Once you have checked these and other safety concerns about your individual vehicle, it’s time to pack some fun for the little ones aboard.  Start a week or so ahead of time and visit a local dollar store.  Collect little (quiet) fun toys that can be enjoyed on the long journey.  Some suggestions might be colored pencils (sharpener) and tablets of paper or coloring books.  The colored pencils are better than markers, pens or crayons because they will not melt into the car (though in the winter this may not be an issue), and will not make a mess if the child suddenly becomes creative and decides to color outside of the “box” (the paper).  You don’t want to enjoy miles of travel only to turn around and find your backseat has been colored orange.

Hello. Strange places, backpacking and airplanes. These are the topics for today!

1. Are you interested in 8 More Stange Places? If so you are in the wright place!

Bir Tawil Location: The Egyptian-Sudanese border

Bir Tawil is a barren trapezoid of land between Egypt and Sudan that is so useless neither country will admit they own it. Both states claim its much more attractive sister territory, the Hala’ib Triangle, but due to treaty terms neither state can claim both.

It’s little more than sand, rocks, and a well in the middle, but it has the distinction of being the only unclaimed piece of Earth outside of Antarctica.

2. If you are a backpacker you are ager to know what are the best backpacking destinations for 2010.

Beaches: The San Blas Islands, Panama
The world is over 70% water, that water is usually connected to land by beach. With so many beaches to choose from, how does one place stand out from the rest? The perfect beach must have all of the following: soft clean sand, clear water, a fair amount of nakedness, natural surrounding beauty and as few tourists as possible. Very few destinations can offer the seclusion from tourists necessary to have a perfect beachgoing experience. We think the San Blas Islands near the coast of Panama come the closest. San Blas, inhabited by the Kuna Indians, offers that little bit of seclusion that tourism has yet to ruin. Women dress in handmade molas (beautifully colored fabrics), everyone has a natural sun glow tan and fresh fish is caught daily by locals in handmade kayak boats. Get your beach skimpies on and head out to Cartegena, Colombia where you can catch a boat for $300 to the San Blas Islands. The fee includes a 5 day, all-inclusive stay in beach paradise. Can’t argue with that.

3. Check out this really cool video.

For today I have some unique articles. It seems that I am more and more attracted to the “wow” stuff.

1. Imagine that you can actually have an underground tour! Read this article and you will understand what I am talking about.

There’s more to most cities than what scrapes the sky—as long as you’re willing to peer beneath the surface.  A Nazi hideout
An ordinary door in Berlin’s Gesundbrunnen train station leads to an abandoned air raid shelter that reveals Berlin’s dark underbelly: an array of secret bunkers, escape tunnels—even an aircraft factory—built by the Nazi regime during WWII and expanded during the Cold War. Berlin Underworlds’ Association, 011-49/30-4991-0517, berliner-unterwelten.de, 90-minute tour $13.

2. By mistake I came across this Photo Essay: The Stunning Colors of Glacier National Park .  All that I can say is that it is absolutely stunning! Just read one of the readers comments:

Man, can I please just be teleported to some tiny tent in the middle of all this massive wilderness? Please pretty please? This makes me want to get lost. With some coffee, a book, and my hiking boots.

3. And last but not least I enjoyed this article too.

That’s really a funny game! I’ve been ‘tagged’ by my virtual friend Donna Hull, who has a fabulous blog with a fantastic name: My Itchy Travel Feet, to write my 3 best kept travel secrets. I have to admit, at the beginning I did not really understand what this all was about. Then, I found out this is a superb game launched by creative blogger Katie of Tripbase.com (at least, so I thought from earlier posts…), imitating a game that I believe we almost all played when we were children. Slapping someone on the back and yelling, “Tag, you’re it!” as Barbara Weibel recalls in her blog Hole in the Donut.

Hello everybody!

For today I have some questions for you:

1. Do you like my articles?

2. Are they useful or interesting to you?

3. What other articles would you like to read?

Ok, now I can do my  job and recommend you some interesting link.

1. If you like to swim you will be amazed by this article: 12 most amazing pools in the world! I was reading it and biting my nails: why I am not there? )

It used to be that all you had to attract people to your hotel was build a pool.  As tourists evolved, the pool was considered a must.  Thus the indoor pool became a standard of luxury.

Today, both of those types of pools are anything but impressive.  It is this reason that many hotels are spending thousands, if not millions, on their pools in hopes of attracting customers.  In recent years the stakes have gone up dramatically, so now designers are getting even more creative than before to combine architectural elements that couldn’t have been dreamed of just a decade or two ago.

Infinity pools, where the water doesn’t appear to be held together by anything but a razor thin edge, are the new standard in decadence and design, but something new is always coming around the corner next.

2. And since we are in the amazing/bizarre area check out this article about 20 most bizarre hotels in the world.

Tired of staying at the Main Street Hilton everywhere you go? Maybe just one time you’ll forget about racking up your Marriott points and entertain the idea that the hotel you choose can be just as much an experience as your trip itself. Rainy day? No problem – Some of these hotels are so far out there; guests may be compelled to complain about their room just so they can take a look at another. These unusual hotels are certainly not listed on the common hotel guide. The hotels listed fall in the realm of adventure, geared to the global traveler looking for that memorable and fascinating holiday.

3. And since we recomended the pools and the hotels I should give you a link to the best train journeys in the world, the best 9!

In a modern world where traveling between destinations is viewed as a waste of time and resources, it is hard to actually comprehend the beauty of some of the most spectacular rides on the planet. Far less comfortable, yet far more beautiful and interesting, the time spent between two destinations is equally captivating and offers many sights and sounds.

While we are very much in a century where we have ‘no time to stand and stare’, there are still some awesome train rides across the globe where the trip itself turns into a destination. So how about hopping on these 10 grand train journeys?