Public Service Announcement: Planning Your Holiday Travel

Helpful hints about getting an plane ticket that won't bankrupt you.

Got Stock in Malaysia Airlines?

DUMP IT NOW, because evidently that airline is run by crazy people.

Amelia Earhart 2.0

Another Amelia Earhart is attempting to fly around the world.

The Very Definition of "Backfire"

Recently taxi drivers in Europe went on strike to oppose new rideshare services like Uber.  To nobody's surprise but the strikers', this move infuriated customers and only made them more aware of Uber and other competitors of traditional cabs.  In London alone signups for Uber skyrocketed 850%.

Point A to Point B Never Looked So Good

Get an eyeful of Jug Cerovic's gorgeous subway maps for 12 major cities from Moscow to Mexico City!

Hello Kitty Monstrosity of the Day: Da Plane, Da Plane!

Well, I had noted this thing flying around Asia, but now it's in LA.

Quirky Asia Files: Getting From Point A To Point B

It all just makes me want to stay home, ha!

Japan: Railway Employee Versus Unruly Passenger

You go, girl.

China's Harley-Davidson Rally

A cool image gallery.

Reinventing the Wheel

Bicycle wheels with springs instead of spokes.

Rescue Me

Tales of real-life heroism and derring-do from 1939 to 2009.

Wanderlust: the 25 Least Visited Countries in the World

Here is a fascinating write-up by a globetrotting Norwegian.  His commentary is very engaging.  Here's his take on Turkmenistan, #7 on the list with only 7000 tourists (in 2007 based on figures from the UN):

Why so few?
The country is reputed to be the second craziest in the world. After, of course, North Korea. 

Why you may still want to visit
Crazy is fun! And all the police officers make you feel very safe. 

What else
Do visit "The Door to Hell" which is the nickname of the burning crater in Darvaza, literally in the middle of Karakum desert. It is fantastic and well worth the 3-4 hours long drive. Just stock up on food and vodka before you go, because you will want to stay in a tent overnight near the flames. They make a comforting sound.

Tech News: the Dreamliner Is Pretty Much Screwed

Back to the drawing board?

British Humor 1, Apples Maps 0

Seen at a London train station.

(Source.)

Monday Therapy: The Most Epic Ad Ever For Public Transportation

I don't know about you, but I could use a break from the endless drumbeat of bad if not outright infuriating/horrifying news.  Alessandra just emailed me this uproarious ad from Denmark.  Be clear to click the "cc" button so you can see English subtitles.  Then get ready for a minute and a half of sheer goofy awesomeness.

The USS Constitution Sails Again

The world's oldest commissioned warship, "Old Ironsides" is a rare beauty.

LOL: the World's Cutest Police Chase

Awwwww.  You should absolutely watch the video while playing the Benny Hill theme song in your head or for reals.

Life Imitates James Bond: Shark Tanks on a Villain's Yacht

I present the following without further comment.  

Oh, screw it, I can't help myself: "You know, I have one simple request.  And that is to have sharks with frickin' laser beams attached to their heads!  Now evidently my cycloptic colleague informs me that that cannot be done.  Ah, would you remind me what I pay you people for, honestly?"

Hello Kitty Monstrosity of the Day: The Plane, The Plane!

Finally, something in air transport that's more awful than the TSA!

I think I've mentioned this Hello Kitty madness by EVA Air before, but this recent Wall Street Journal story about it refreshes all the horror.  The image gallery is simply ... unspeakable. I am happy to note, however, that the demented masterminds behind this did see fit to stock the plane with Hello Kitty-themed airsick bags.  You're going to need them, pal.

Awesome: Southwest Airlines and a Damaged Suitcase

Three cheers for a customer and a company that both have a sense of humor!  See first the customer's letter about a damaged suitcase, and then see Southwest Airlines' response.  Public relations and customer service?  You're doing it right!  (United Airlines, take note!)