Courtesy Ben Kelly, The Independent

The best place to celebrate Halloween in the world. It must be Transylvania, the home of Dracula, right? Or Salem, Massachusetts, for its history of witches, right. Maybe even New York, for its celebrity-led annual Village Parade. One place you almost certainly wouldn’t think of is Derry – the second city of Northern Ireland. But that’s where you’d be wrong. I was born and bred in Derry, so don’t take my word for it. Instead, listen to USA Today, who named Derry the “best Halloween destination in the world” in 2015. If Americans say someone else does Halloween better, you can guarantee they do.

Growing up, I would dress up with my family and join the Halloween parade as it snaked through the streets, before assembling to watch a spectacular fireworks display from the banks of the River Foyle.

I thought everywhere did this. It was only when I first moved away from Derry for university that I realised Halloween wasn’t nearly as big a deal anywhere else, and I’ve always wondered how our city came to be such an essential festive location. The answer, it seems, has its roots in Irish history.

In 1986, the city council stepped in to make Halloween more of an organised event. Arthur Arbuckle was one of the workers who helped put that first year together.

“It was a very small carnival,” he tells me. “We built a stage in the Guildhall Square, there was a small band, no parade – just a festival which then grew year after year. I’ve spoken to people who’ve come from all over the world: England, Germany, America. They just thought it was the greatest thing ever.”

That certainly rings true for the people I spoke to. Lorenzo De Martino – an Italian living in London – visited Derry for Halloween with friends a few years ago, and remembers how the locals “truly embraced” the whole affair.

“I was positively surprised at the effort people made for fancy dress, and how big an event is actually is,” he says. “It wasn’t just about finding a ready-made costume to wear but to go and find different pieces in different shops to create the best and most original outfit.”

Otherwise known as being a city of song and dance, rich in history with a reputation for a good night out, the Halloween celebrations fuse the best of Derry together – starting with the 17th-century city walls that give it its nickname, the Walled City (Derry is the only fully intact walled city in Ireland). While they’ve often been seen as a divisive symbol in a city largely populated by Irish nationalists, now the Halloween “wakening of the walls” – which see them brought to life with art projections and nearby parades – has given them a new significance.

In 2013, the Halloween carnival was one of the centrepieces of Derry’s year as UK City of Culture. On the occassion of its 30th anniversary in 2016, the council estimates 80,000 people took part in four days of festivities – with 30,000 people attending the main carnival itself. It’s unique in the world, insists Whoriskey. “We don’t know of anywhere else in Europe that puts on a Halloween carnival like we do – and we have looked hard!”

At this years, Derry’s Halloween festivities start on 28 October and culminate with the parade on 31 October. Visitors can expect fireworks and Jack-o’-lantern competitions (with traditional Irish turnips used for carving in addition to the expected pumpkins). To tie in with this year’s theme of ‘Under the Samhain Moon’, there will be a giant moon on display in the central Guildhall Square – the centre for many activities – before it is released during the final parade.

Of course Halloween isn’t just for children, and it isn’t just for horror fans either. The Derry celebrations will see a harvest market for foodies, the Samhain Sessions for music lovers, as well as plenty of opportunities to scare yourself senseless – literally. The Playhouse Theatre is engaging the help of its resident ghost – supposedly a nun, who lingers there from when the building was a school – and putting on a sensory deprivation exercise called ‘See No Evil’ which involves being put in a room blindfolded, to heighten your other senses.

So, for the best Halloween experience in the world, rooted in the festival’s history, look no further than Derry. And remember: spooky costumes bought in a shop are usually frowned upon, so get creative while you’ve still got time.

More information: derryhalloween.com

Halloween Traditions From Around the World

Courtesy Rudie Obias

Although most Americans spend Halloween dressing up and trick-or-treating, other countries have their own celebratory rituals. Here are a number Halloween (and Halloween-like) traditions from around the world.

SAMHAIN: IRELAND AND SCOTLAND

Ireland is considered the birthplace of modern Halloween with its origins stemming from ancient Celtic and Pagan rituals and a festival called Samhain, or Samhuinn (end of the light half of the year) that took place thousands of years ago. Today, both Ireland and Scotland celebrate Halloween with bonfires, games, and traditional foods like barmbrack, an Irish fruitcake that contains coins, buttons, and rings for fortunetelling. For example, rings mean marriage, while coins mean wealth in the upcoming year.

DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS: MEXICO

From November 1 to November 2, Mexico and parts of Latin America celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) to honor those who have passed away. It is believed that the Gates of Heaven open up at midnight on October 31 and the souls of children return to Earth to be reunited with their families for 24 hours. On November 2, the souls of adults come down from heaven to join in the festivities.

The holiday is celebrated with in-home altars full of fruit, peanuts, turkey, soda, hot chocolate, water, stacks of tortillas and a special holiday bread called pan de muerto (bread of the dead), which are left as offerings for weary ghosts. For the souls of children, families leave out toys and candy, while adult souls receive cigarettes and shots of mezcal.

DAY OF DRACULA: ROMANIA

People from all around the world flock to celebrate Halloween at Vlad “The Impaler” Tepes’s purported home at Bran Castle in Transylvania, Romania. There are a number of guides and inclusive travel packages in Romania that offer tours and parties at Count Dracula’s castle for Halloween.

KAWASAKI HALLOWEEN PARADE: JAPAN

At the end of every October for the past 21 years, nearly 4000 costumed Halloween enthusiasts from all around the world have gathered in Kawasaki, just outside Tokyo, for the Kawasaki Halloween Parade, which is the biggest parade of its kind in Japan. However, not everyone can simply join in the festivities. The Kawasaki Halloween Parade has strict guidelines and standards, so you have to apply for entry two months before the parade begins.

PANGANGALULUWA: THE PHILIPPINES

Pangangaluluwa is a tradition in the Philippines where children go door to door, often in costumes, where they sing and ask for prayers for those stuck in purgatory. While the ritual have increasingly been supplanted by trick-or-treating over the years, some towns are working tirelessly to revive Pangangaluluwa as a way of keeping the tradition alive, and as a local fundraiser.

THE HUNGRY GHOST FESTIVAL: HONG KONG

On the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, which is around mid-August to mid-September, the people of Hong Kong celebrate the Hungry Ghost Festival. In several parts of East Asia, people believe that spirits get restless around this time of year and begin to roam the world. The festival is a way to “feed” these spirits both the food and money they need for the afterlife. It’s part of a larger month-long celebration that also features burning paper and food offerings.

PITRU PAKSHA: INDIA

For 16 days during the second Paksha of the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada, many people in India celebrate Pitru Paksha. In the Hindu religion it is believed that when a person dies, Yama — the Hindu god of death — takes his or her soul to purgatory, where they’ll find their last three generations of a family. During Pitru Paksha, the souls are briefly allowed to return to Earth and be with their families.

In order to ensure their family’s place in the afterlife, one must perform the ritual of Shraddha, which includes a fire ritual. If  Shraddha isn’t performed, the soul will wanderthe Earth for eternity. During Pitru Paksha, families offer the dead food, such as kheer (sweet rice and milk), lapsi (a sweet porridge), rice, lentils, spring beans, and pumpkins, which are cooked in silver or copper pots and served on banana leaves.

DZIEŃ ZADUSZNY: POLAND

In early November, people across Poland travel to cemeteries to visit the graves of their family members (Dzień Zaduszny is like the equivalent of All Souls’ Day for Catholics in the country). The holiday is celebrated with candles, flowers, and an offering of prayers for departed relatives. On the second day, people attend a requiem mass for the souls of the dead.

AWURU ODO FESTIVAL: NIGERIA

The Awuru Odo Festival marks the return of dearly departed friends and family members back to the living. Lasting up to six months, the holiday is celebrated with feasts, music, and masks before the dead return to the spirit world. Although the Odo Festival is an important ritual, it happens once every two years, when it is believed the spirits will return to Earth.

OGNISSANTI: ITALY

All Saints’ Day, November 1, is a national holiday in Italy. Better known as Ognissanti, the festivities usually begin a couple of days before, when people begin leaving fresh flowers — generally chrysanthemums — on the graves of departed loved ones, as well as complete strangers, turning the country’s cemeteries into a beautiful display of colors. Italians also pay tribute to the departed by putting a red candle in the window at sunset and set a place at the table for those spirits they hope will pay a visit.

ALL SAINTS’ DAY: WORLDWIDE

On November 1, many Catholics around the world celebrate All Saints’ Day, followed by All Souls’ Day on November 2. It’s an annual time to honor the lives of the saints who died for their Catholic beliefs, as well as the souls of dead family members. In observance of the holiday, people go to mass and visit the graves of their loved ones.

While the event is celebrated worldwide, Germany has its own tradition: many hide their kitchen knives, so that returning spirits won’t be accidentally harmed (or use the same knives to harm the living).

3RD STREET ASYLUM: Kansas, USA

As its name suggests, 3rd Street Asylum was once an asylum, and originally constructed in 1918. Soon the asylum was housing some of the most dangerous and violent patients in the entire Midwest. Cited for inhumane living conditions and treatment methods, the 3rd Street Asylum permanently closed in 1983, however, the building comes to life again every Halloween as a haunted house to terrorize visitors.

The US Premiere of “Babylon Berlin” is Unveiled in Los Angeles

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Sister City partnership of Berlin and Los Angeles, the upcoming TV series Babylon Berlin recently had its US premiere in Los Angeles at the iconic Theatre at Ace Hotel. The big budgeted  ($45 million) 16 episodes Netflix series, will be available for viewership in 2017 & 2018. Directed by Tom Tykwer (Run Lola Run, Cloud Atlas, Hologram for a King), with other episodes directed by Henk Handloegten and Achim von Borri, the series is based on the mystery novels of Volker Kutscher that take place in the decadent underworld of Berlin in the 1920s. In the film, wide-eyed Colognian commissioner, Gereon Rath, moves to Berlin, the epicenter of political and social changes in the Golden Twenties, to investigate a porno ring, and gets caught up in a world of drugs, sex, political intrigue and murder. In writing the novels, Kutscher  said he was inspired by the HBO series, The Sopranos and the writings of Raymond Chandler.  Tykwer used the plot of Kutscher’s novels “as a jumping-off point” to explore the world of 1920s Berlin.

The gala US  premiere featured  red carpet appearances with the mayor of Berlin, Michael Müller; director Tykwer and major cast members, Volker Bruch and Liv Lisa Fries. Following the screening, there was a wine reception inside the theater, Babylon Berlin photo booth along with dancing to music provided by DJ Gabriel Mounsey.

2018 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The nominees for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 2018 class have been revealed, and the list spans multiple genres of music including rock, rap, metal, jazz, R&B, punk, progressive rock, and funk.

The beloved alt-rock band Radiohead joins other first-time nominees including late jazz icon Nina Simone, British heavy-metal group Judas Priest, English singer-songwriter Kate Bush and progressive-rock pioneers The Moody Blues.

Dire Straits, Depeche Mode, The Zombies, The Cars, MC5 and J. Geils Band are all in the running once again after receiving nominations last year, while Bon Jovi is back in the ring after receiving its first and only nod in 2011.

To be eligible for nomination, an individual artist or band must have released its first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to the year of induction which means the 2018 nominees had to release their first official recording no later than 1992.

Fans can vote for their favorites at RockHall.com. The top five artists chosen by the public will make up a “fans’ ballot” that will be included with the other ballots. The final inductees will be announced in December, determined by a voting body of more than 900 artists, music historians, and music industry insiders.

The 2018 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held April 14 in Cleveland, Ohio, and will air on HBO.

99 Best Destinations for Graffiti and Street-Art

Exploring cities through their graffiti and street-art is the new travel trend. And best of all, it’s totally free to walk around the city and enjoy the amazing art on the walls!

At Bombing Science, we wanted to get a sense of what was going on with graffiti this summer and what better way to do that than to explore where people were using the #graffiti hashtag around the world. The world is popping full of colours and artists are making their mark in an expanding list of cities. Rather than pick cities at random, we pulled Instagram data over the summer to deliver to you the Top 99 instagrammable cities for graffiti as brought to you by instagrammers from around the world. It truly is a global experience not to be missed!

Check out the results here

Hands down, this Canadian gem is our pick for the most hilarious, madcap travel show on the cybersphere.

In this zany episode, the Travel Guys take on Ireland.

MORE

The World’s 50 Best Bars in 2017 Announced in London

How the voting worked

The final list was compiled by votes from The World’s 50 Best Bars Academy, comprised of more than 500 drinks experts, including renowned bartenders and consultants, drinks writers and cocktail specialists. The Academy of voters is spread across the globe with: 150 based in Europe; 115 based in North America; 70 in Latin America; 110 in Asia; 30 in Africa & the Middle East; and 30 in Australasia. The distribution of voters is designed to reflect the relative development and sophistication of the drinks sector, and the concentration of quality bars, in each region. Each voter casts 7 votes, based on their best bar experiences of the previous 18 months, of which at least 3 must be for bars located outside the voter’s country of residence.

The World’s 50 Best Bars awards was an evening of international celebration, bringing together the best bartending talent from around the globe.

Click here for the winners of the World’s 50 Best Bars

The Story Behind The Beatles’ “Hey Bulldog”

The Beatles’ “Hey Bulldog” has become a revered rocker in recent years, but that wasn’t always the case.

Although it first surfaced on the fairly unpopular Yellow Submarine LP in 1969, it has since appeared seemingly everywhere – from handpicked compilations of the band’s best rock songs, to the Rock Band video game.

From its fairly simple recording in one day to its rise as a not-so-deep track, this video offers a comprehensive look at the now-classic Lennon tune.

Personal Translator Lets You Speak and Understand 80 Languages

See how it works:

Travis is the first translator with artificial intelligence, and the more it’s used the smarter it becomes. In each language combination, it chooses the most appropriate translation software: from engines like Google and Microsoft, to more local ones. Soon Travis users will be able to rate on an online platform the accuracy of translations delivered, so that the translator can improve. “We already have 6,000 users and are looking for more early adopters who want to make Travis even better. This year we want to reach 50,000 active users to make even better translations available to everyone through software updates in the device.”

The post Humor, Facts & Stats, Trivia and More appeared first on Traveling Archive.

Richard Bang’s Quests

Like passing through a pool of light, it is a traveler’s thrill to delve and I’m thrilled to announce two huge upcoming adventures. 

First, in partnership with the ever-inquisitive Atlas Obscura and MTSobek, I’ll be leading an unexampled trip through the Sultanate of Oman next year (see the itinerary below). We’ll explore, by camels, dhows, and feet, the souqs, sandscapes, palaces, and mosques of a welcoming Arabaian country that retains its ancient culture and otherworldly beauty. Next, for those with a higher sense of adventure, we’ve got the peak-perfect expedition lined up for you this year. Explore the rooftop of the world by helicopter in what is, without a doubt, the ultimate way to experience the Himalayas.

Your Guide to Experiencing Oktoberfest and Its Historical Roots, One Stein at a Time

Oktoberfest is celebrated around the world, but only in Germany can you return to the original source of the world’s largest Volkfest. You’ve travelled for the live music, traditional costumes, parades and sheer joy of festival revelers. But after the Oktoberfest festival running from September 16 – October 3, it is possible to trace the festival’s historical roots while exploring Munich, and a side-trip to majestic Berchtesgaden, where the festival is very much an important part of Bavarian culture and heritage.

Here’s an alternative guide on how to do that

TIME CAPSULE CINEMA

Five Easy Pieces

By Walt Mundkowsky

Directed by: Bob Rafelson
Writers: Carole Eastman (screenplay, as Adrien Joyce), Bob Rafelson (story), Carole Eastman (story, as Adrien Joyce)
Cast: Jack Nicholson, Karen Black, Susan Anspach, Lois Smith, Billy Green Bush,Ralph Waite, Sally Struthers, John Ryan
Cinematography by: László Kovács

Ready For A Nap?

Weary travelers can rent sleeping pods and shower time in the Nine Hours hotel at Tokyo’s Narita International Airport
Courtesy Chris Weller – Business Insider

There aren’t many frills at the Nine Hours hotel, but when you’re only staying for a nap or a layover between flights, soft sheets and a dark space are pretty much all you need. Nine Hours is a Japanese chain of pod hotels started in 2009, with each chain designed to accommodate people for between one and nine hours depending on their needs. For $44, guests gain access to a private pod, sleepwear, and access to the bathrooms and lounge. Or for $7 you can just take a shower.

The Shortest Path to Real-Life Conversations

Which language would you like to learn? Try it out for free!

John Heard – RIP

Actor John Heard (1946–2017) passed away on July 21, 2017. He was 72-years-old. Though much has been made of him as a ‘character actor’ in trifles like Home Alone and Big, there are many who have been enamored by him for his earlier leading roles. In particular, his acting in Ivan Passer’s Cutter’s Way is regarded as a true Shakespearian performance. In the film Heard plays a cynical, hard drinking, conspiracy driven Vietnam War veteran who lost an arm, leg and one-eye on the battlefield. Romantic roles included Joan Micklin Silver’s Head Over Heels (aka Chilly Scenes of Winter) and Paul Schrader’s remake of Cat People. Between The Lines (JM Silver again), Trip to Bountiful, Martin Scorsese’s After Hours and his portrayal of Jack Kerouac in Heartbeat were also among critic’s favorites.

Visit this page for more details

Clear Your Schedules: Events Throughout Buenos Aires Fill Up The 2017 Calendar

South America’s Capital of Cool Abounds with Festivals Throughout the Year

Buenos Aires, a city renowned for its vivacity, cuisine, passionate people and unique culture gets even more thrilling and interesting in 2017, with a top-notch lineup of festivals and events. Travelers visiting Buenos Aires this year will have many things to see and do including agricultural festivals, tango competitions, design and fashion events, and gay parades. Festivals are also a great way to meet the Porteño locals, who are known for their warmth and welcoming attitude.

Upcoming events in the City of Many Passions during the second half of the year, include:

Happy Summer Months from the staff at TravelingBoy

We have designated this Summer to think of those who suffer from great sorry and misfortune. Here are some of our favorite charities.

John Lennon’s Typewriter

SFO’s mini art exhibit has a gem right now in current exhibition.

Hands down, this Canadian gem is our pick for the most hilarious, madcap travel show on the cybersphere.

In this zany episode, the Travel Guys take on a Mediterranean Cruise.

How to Resolve Fights over Reclining Airplane Seats

An investigation into the economics of reclining
Courtesy of Christopher Buccafusco & Christopher Jon Sprigman, Evonomics

Not since the Battle of the Somme has such little space been the subject of such intense conflict.

Countries That Require Visas for Americans

The State Department’s Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management (ACS) administers the Consular Information Program, which informs the public of conditions abroad that may affect their safety and security. Country Specific Information, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings are vital parts of this program.

Man Tried to Bite Flight Attendant, Jumped From Plane

The man then made his way to the galley, pried open the door and jumped. He appeared in federal court Friday on a charge of assaulting/intimidating a flight crew member.

Tipping Etiquette Around the Globe

As North Americans, tipping is a reality, and we are sensitive that the wait staff receives their due. We generally like to tip at the amount of 15% to 20%. After all, the wait staff in North America depends on it.

But if you are confused about tipping in other destinations, we determined what’s best to tip outside of North America.

• Africa: 10% to 15%
• Australia/New Zealand: None (the wait staff is well compensated in their hourly salary
• Caribbean & Central America: 10%
• China: None. (Tipping is against the law)
• England: 10%
• Germany: 10%
• Ireland: 12%
• Italy: None (except for great service, where you round out bill)
• Japan: None. (tipping is considered rude, but you always offer your chef a beer)
• Middle East: 15%
• South America: 15

You Can’t Get Fired

I have been cleaning house since I was very young. My mother was a good housekeeper and I guess it’s true that, “Apples don’t fall very far from the tree.”

A Whole Lot of Ships

I was thinking about importance of friendships, kinship and companionships are to me, and all of these other words that contain ships just popped into my mind.

The post Catch-up with the Latest Traveling Boy News appeared first on Traveling Archive.

BEATLE BEAT TRIVIA HODGEPODGE

A T-Boy staffer was listening the other morning to “Breakfast with the Beatles,”  and DJ Chris Carter (more than a serious Beatle-ologist) said years ago a friend posed this question to him: “If you encountered a visitor from another world and could play only ONE Beatles song that would explain their overall greatness, what would that song be?” Carter said his friend “then shoved a note into my pocket and said, ‘I already know what your answer will be and I wrote it down on that piece of paper.’” Carter continued, “Well, the pressure was on… so I went through all the mental deductions like, can’t use anything off Sgt. Pepper for example because those songs would only be representative of their psychedelic era…etc.”  Anyway, he came up with a song and it was indeed what his friend had written down on the note.

I was initially floored by his answer, but it made perfect sense and was the best choice the more I thought about it. (I likely would not have arrived at this on my own).

THE ANSWER

Ready For A Nap?

Weary travelers can rent sleeping pods and shower time in the Nine Hours hotel at Tokyo’s Narita International Airport
Courtesy Chris Weller – Business Insider

There aren’t many frills at the Nine Hours hotel, but when you’re only staying for a nap or a layover between flights, soft sheets and a dark space are pretty much all you need. Nine Hours is a Japanese chain of pod hotels started in 2009, with each chain designed to accommodate people for between one and nine hours depending on their needs. For $44, guests gain access to a private pod, sleepwear, and access to the bathrooms and lounge. Or for $7 you can just take a shower.

The Shortest Path to Real-Life Conversations

Which language would you like to learn? Try it out for free!

John Heard – RIP

Actor John Heard (1946–2017) passed away on July 21, 2017. He was 72-years-old. Though much has been made of him as a ‘character actor’ in trifles like Home Alone and Big, there are many who have been enamored by him for his earlier leading roles. In particular, his acting in Ivan Passer’s Cutter’s Way is regarded as a true Shakespearian performance. In the film Heard plays a cynical, hard drinking, conspiracy driven Vietnam War veteran who lost an arm, leg and one-eye on the battlefield. Romantic roles included Joan Micklin Silver’s Head Over Heels (aka Chilly Scenes of Winter) and Paul Schrader’s remake of Cat People. Between The Lines (JM Silver again), Trip to Bountiful, Martin Scorsese’s After Hours and his portrayal of Jack Kerouac in Heartbeat were also among critic’s favorites.

Visit this page for more details

Clear Your Schedules: Events Throughout Buenos Aires Fill Up The 2017 Calendar

South America’s Capital of Cool Abounds with Festivals Throughout the Year

Buenos Aires, a city renowned for its vivacity, cuisine, passionate people and unique culture gets even more thrilling and interesting in 2017, with a top-notch lineup of festivals and events. Travelers visiting Buenos Aires this year will have many things to see and do including agricultural festivals, tango competitions, design and fashion events, and gay parades. Festivals are also a great way to meet the Porteño locals, who are known for their warmth and welcoming attitude.

Upcoming events in the City of Many Passions during the second half of the year, include:

Happy Summer Months from the staff at TravelingBoy

We have designated this Summer to think of those who suffer from great sorry and misfortune. Here are some of our favorite charities.

Star Wars Resort Coming to Disney World

Disney World vacationers will one day have the opportunity for an all-encompassing Star Wars experience, from hotel to theme park.

Every Star Wars fan knows the park attraction is coming in 2019 (the 14-acre land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando now has an official name, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge). A Florida resort is coming, too, and Disney touts it as a “one-of-a-kind experience where a luxury resort meets a multi-day adventure in a galaxy far, far away.”

John Lennon’s Typewriter

SFO’s mini art exhibit has a gem right now in current exhibition.

TIME CAPSULE CINEMA

The Battle of Algiers – A Look Back

By Walt Mundkowsky

Directed by: Gillo Pontecorvo
Writing Credits: Franco Solinas and Gillo Pontecorvo
Music by: Ennio Morricone and Gillo Pontecorvo
Cinematography by:  Marcello Gatti
Cast: Brahim Hadjadj, Jean Martin, Yacef Saadi

Hands down, this Canadian gem is our pick for the most hilarious, madcap travel show on the cybersphere.

In this zany episode, the Travel Guys take on a Mediterranean Cruise.

How to Resolve Fights over Reclining Airplane Seats

An investigation into the economics of reclining
Courtesy of Christopher Buccafusco & Christopher Jon Sprigman, Evonomics

Not since the Battle of the Somme has such little space been the subject of such intense conflict.

Countries That Require Visas for Americans

The State Department’s Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management (ACS) administers the Consular Information Program, which informs the public of conditions abroad that may affect their safety and security. Country Specific Information, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings are vital parts of this program.

Stay Informed, Stay Connected, Stay Safe!

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Man Tried to Bite Flight Attendant, Jumped From Plane

The man then made his way to the galley, pried open the door and jumped. He appeared in federal court Friday on a charge of assaulting/intimidating a flight crew member.

Tipping Etiquette Around the Globe

As North Americans, tipping is a reality, and we are sensitive that the wait staff receives their due. We generally like to tip at the amount of 15% to 20%. After all, the wait staff in North America depends on it.

But if you are confused about tipping in other destinations, we determined what’s best to tip outside of North America.

• Africa: 10% to 15%
• Australia/New Zealand: None (the wait staff is well compensated in their hourly salary
• Caribbean & Central America: 10%
• China: None. (Tipping is against the law)
• England: 10%
• Germany: 10%
• Ireland: 12%
• Italy: None (except for great service, where you round out bill)
• Japan: None. (tipping is considered rude, but you always offer your chef a beer)
• Middle East: 15%
• South America: 15

We Are All Terminal – We Just Don’t Know Our Expiration Date

Addressing the elephant in the room about your own death is something most couples avoid doing together and it is a big mistake.

10 Strange Laws from Around the World

Courtesy SmarterTraveler

From a stiletto ban in Greece to the pinball crackdown in South Carolina – give travel a unique flavor.

Top 25 Most Interesting Webcams

Selected from hundreds of nominees by a panel of EarthCam producers, EarthCam announces the most unique and compelling webcams of the year.

The post Catch-up with the Latest Traveling Boy News appeared first on Traveling Archive.

Frommer’s Celebrates 60th Anniversary with Vacation Giveaway

Was it really 60-years ago when Arthur Frommer published the iconic “Europe on 5 Dollars a Day?” To mark the milestone anniversary, Frommer is partnering with HomeAway, offering free vacations to six military families.

TIME CAPSULE CINEMA

Director: James Foley
Writers: David Mamet (play), David Mamet (screenplay)
Cast: Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Alec Baldwin, Alan Arkin, Ed Harris, Kevin Spacey, Jonathan Pryce

Good Mean Fun

A Look Back at Glengarry Glen Ross
By Walt Mundkowsky

Hands down, this Canadian gem is our pick for the most hilarious, madcap travel show on the cybersphere.

In this zany episode, the Travel Guys take on London.

How to Resolve Fights over Reclining Airplane Seats

An investigation into the economics of reclining
Courtesy of Christopher Buccafusco & Christopher Jon Sprigman, Evonomics

Not since the Battle of the Somme has such little space been the subject of such intense conflict.

BEATLE BEAT TRIVIA HODGEPODGE

1. What was the name of Ringo’s band before joining the Beatles?
2. How many films did John Lennon appear which were directed by Richard Lester?
3. George wrote Something about what woman?
4. Who is the tallest Beatle?

The answers are revealed at the end of this article.

Countries That Require Visas for Americans

The State Department’s Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management (ACS) administers the Consular Information Program, which informs the public of conditions abroad that may affect their safety and security. Country Specific Information, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings are vital parts of this program.

Stay Informed, Stay Connected, Stay Safe!

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Man Tried to Bite Flight Attendant, Jumped From Plane

The man then made his way to the galley, pried open the door and jumped. He appeared in federal court Friday on a charge of assaulting/intimidating a flight crew member.

Tipping Etiquette Around the Globe

As North Americans, tipping is a reality, and we are sensitive that the wait staff receives their due. We generally like to tip at the amount of 15% to 20%. After all, the wait staff in North America depends on it.

But if you are confused about tipping in other destinations, we determined what’s best to tip outside of North America.

• Africa: 10% to 15%
• Australia/New Zealand: None (the wait staff is well compensated in their hourly salary
• Caribbean & Central America: 10%
• China: None. (Tipping is against the law)
• England: 10%
• Germany: 10%
• Ireland: 12%
• Italy: None (except for great service, where you round out bill)
• Japan: None. (tipping is considered rude, but you always offer your chef a beer)
• Middle East: 15%
• South America: 15

We Are All Terminal – We Just Don’t Know Our Expiration Date

Addressing the elephant in the room about your own death is something most couples avoid doing together and it is a big mistake.

10 Strange Laws from Around the World

Courtesy SmarterTraveler

From a stiletto ban in Greece to the pinball crackdown in South Carolina – give travel a unique flavor.

Top 25 Most Interesting Webcams

Selected from hundreds of nominees by a panel of EarthCam producers, EarthCam announces the most unique and compelling webcams of the year.

Operation Homefront

A national nonprofit, Operation Homefront leads more than 4,500 volunteers with nationwide presence who provide emergency and other financial assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors.

Together in Spirit – The Best Friends Animal Society

At the core of Best Friends Animal Society’s work is the dream that one day animals will no longer be killed in America’s shelters.

Worldwide Vacation Rankings

U.S. News Travel’s Best Vacations rankings identify the top destinations by region and vacation type.

7 Frequent-Flyer Tricks Worth Learning

Master the art of earning miles, attaining elite status, and working the system to earn free flights and other perks.

Happy JUNE from the staff at TravelingBoy

We have designated June as the month to think of those who suffer from great misfortune. Here are some of our favorite charities.

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Random Acts of Canine Kindness

Cedric the Dog takes a well-earned break after organizing a protest at a Mississippi puppy mill.

Dog Quotations

To a Mouse
A Red Red Rose

Courtesy Tim Winship, SmarterTravel

O, my Luve’s like a red, red rose,
That’s newly sprung in June.
O, my Luve’s like a melodie
That’s sweetly play’d in tune.

As fair as thou, my bonnie lass,
So deep in luve am I;
And I will love thee still, my dear,
Till a’ the seas gang dry.

Till a’ the seas gang dry, my dear,
And the rocks melt wi’ the sun:
I will love thess till, my dear,
While the sands o’ life shall run:

And fare thee well, my only luve!
And fare thee weel, a while!
And I will come again, my luve,
Tho’ it ware ten thousand mile.

Send Deb your favorite travel poems.

The Rich and Famous Get Their Own Terminal at LAX

Courtesy Tim Winship, SmarterTravel

Los Angeles airport has a new terminal where wealthy travelers can enjoy private suites and chauffeured BMW rides across the tarmac to their gates.

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The Most Affordable Countries to Visit in 2017

In the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2017, countries were given scores on 14 sets of criteria. These are not your typical tourist destinations, which can add to their price competitiveness.

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Money-Saving Tips all Travelers Should Try

As part of USA TODAY’s new travel research portal Embark, an expert panel of travel bloggers has been assembled to share their best advice to help you travel smarter, safer and more economically.

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Solving the Puzzle: When the First Humans Arrived in the Americas

A Newcastle University expert is leading a new study which aims to resolve a longstanding debate about how and when people first came to the Americas.

Courtesy Phys.org

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The ‘Coffin Homes’ of Hong Kong

Courtesy Alan Taylor, The Atlantic

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What Not to Wear in the Airport Security Line

Roll through security like a pro by avoiding the following attire
Courtesy: Smarter Travel

The best way to ease through airport security is to dress for success. Certain garments and accessories could get you flagged for extra screening, slowing down your progression through the airport. Want to roll through the security line like a pro? Avoid wearing the following attire:

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Airplane-Provided Water, Ice, Coffee, or Tea

It’s important to stay hydrated while flying, but you’re better off BYOW (Bringing Your Own Water) rather than grabbing a free drink from the beverage cart.

Tests done by the EPA a few years ago showed that one out of every seven planes had tank water that did not meet federal standards, and in fact contained bacteria like E. coli. Although beverage carts might give you “bottled” water from a large bottle, that bottle could have been refilled using the tank water. Coffee and tea are often made from the same tank water, which is usually not heated enough to kill germs. Ice is also sometimes made on board, so it’s best to pass on that as well.

10 Urban Legends About Flying That Aren’t True

Courtesy Caroline Morse, SmarterTravel

From terrifying tales about airplane bathrooms to mid-flight door-opening fears, there are a lot of myths about air travel flying around out there. Here are 10 urban legends that just aren’t true.

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Carry-on Luggage Tips for a Stress Free Security Check-in at the Airport

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How Does the U.S.’s Amtrak Compare to China’s Bullet Trains?

China’s high speed railway is the most heavily used in the world, with 1.44 billion passengers every year. Amtrak in 2016 hit a new record with around 31.3 million passengers. So, how do they compare?

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8 Ways to Live Hygge While Traveling

Even if you don’t know the word, you know hygge when you feel it
Courtesy Ashley Rossi, SmarterTravel

After all it’s a feeling of comfort and coziness, like a good conversation by the fire, a cup of steaming coffee in a warm cafe on a cold day, or a blissful moment of contentedness that holds you like a hug. And while travel is typically the opposite of hygge, there are plenty of ways you can bring the concept to your travels. Whether it’s the destination you pick or a hotel’s design, here are eight ways you can be a hygge-happy traveler. While you’re at it, check out T-Boy’s A 24 Hour Quest for Hygge.

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The Best Place to Find Cheap Flights

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Being on the ground in over 180 countries means you get the full story.

Beatle Beat Trivia Hodgepodge Answers

1. What was the name of Ringo’s band before joining the Beatles?
A: Rory Storm & the Hurricanes

2. How many films did John Lennon appear that were directed by Richard Lester?
A: Three: “A Hard Day’s Night,” “Help!” and “How I Won the War.”

3. George wrote Something about what woman?
A: Harrison’s first wife, Pattie Boyd. Also the inspiration for Clapton’s “Layla” and “Wonderful Tonight.” She later became Clapton’s wife.

4. Who is the tallest Beatle?
A: Official Beatle stats indicate John, Paul & George were all listed at 5’ 11.5”. I’ve been informed by a number of sources, though, that John was really shorter. Hard to tell with those Cuban-healed Beatle Boots.

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