Archive for September, 2007

Must See TV Vacations

Wednesday, September 26th, 2007

Have you joined a Survivor pool, planned a party for the Grey’s Anatomy season premiere or yelled “Deal” or “No Deal” at the TV? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you are well aware that the new season of TV has launched. “What does TV have to do with travel,” you ask? Lots as we found in our TV survey. In fact, 75% of Kayakers said they have or would like to visit a destination made famous by a TV show. So, here are a few recommendations for you 75%ers. For the other 25%, see our literary themed recommendations.

Los Angeles, CA flights | hotels | cars
Whether you’re into soap operas, game shows, sitcoms, dramas, mysteries or the reality “flav”, LA houses all your TV fan needs. First stop: tune into Universal Studios where four shows are currently taping including CSI and Ghost Whisperer. Next, switch the channel and take a house tour through Beverly Hills to see how the other half live. You’ll want some pix of the Hollywood sign, followed by a trip Grauman’s Chinese Theater to match your hand with the prints of your favorite TV stars. If you want to live like a star, grab your gold card for a shopping trip down Rodeo Drive or head straight to Kitson on hip Robertson Boulevard where you’re almost guaranteed to see a TV star such as Jennifer Aniston or Jaime Pressly. If you want to see your favorite stars in their natural habitat, brave the paparazzi and dine at the Ivy or Nobu and finish the night with a cocktail or two at Hyde Lounge or Sunset Bar.

New York, NY flights | hotels | cars
Once you’ve had your fill of west coast glamour, head east to New York City. There’s a bus tour for almost every show ever filmed in NYC including Sex in the City and The Sopranos (NJ is close enough for us). Wanna tour with a celebrity? Kenny Kramer, the real life inspiration for Cosmo (pre racist rants) leads a three-hour bus tour of Seinfeld’s haunts. If you’d rather walk, take the Central Park West tour from Rich and Famous Tours to see where your favorite celebrities live and play. Along the way, you might just see Brangelina strolling with the kids in their favorite playground or Kelly Ripa not eating an ice cream cone with her kids. If you’re into the peacock, head over to Rockefeller Center to meet Matt, Meredith and Al from the Today Show. If it’s Saturday, get in line by 7am for stand-by tickets to Saturday Night Live. Dining with a celebrity will cost you BANK in this town, so empty your savings for dinner at Craft or Tao. End your night with a Manhattan at the infamous Bungalow 8 or The Rose Bar.

Atlanta, GA flights | hotels | cars
Take a trip down south to see the media monopoly Ted Turner carved out for himself, despite barely being intelligible. This city houses CNN, TBS, TNT, TCM, and Cartoon Network. We recommend CNN’s 55 minute behind-the-scenes tour where you’ll feel the excitement of 24-hour news coverage, especially if your visit coincides with breaking news. The “most trusted name in news” also offers a real cool interactive tour especially for the tots. Maybe your kid will be the next Larry King, only with better hair. Twenty-four hour coverage reminds us of Coca-Cola’s advertising schedule. You can’t leave Atlanta without touring the New World of Coca-Cola which has been recently expanded to include a 4-D theater in addition to the bottling assembly line, pop culture gallery and tons of yummy samples. You’ll love the rich culture, good food, and friendly folks of Atlanta. Don’t forget to say “hey” to everyone who passes.

Lake George, NY flights | hotels | cars
What do Rachael Ray and Last of the Mohicans have in common? How about the glorious setting of Lake George, NY? It’s true that Rachael Ray screeching “Yum-o!” to Daniel Day-Lewis in all his holy-hairiness glory while she whips up something with E.V.O.O. (extra virgin olive oil) might not evoke the perfect TV vacation, but there is still lots to see and do here in Upstate New York. Start with a trip to Ray’s favorite stomping grounds at The Sagamore Resort for some kayaking, sailing, or trip to the spa. Next up, blend the Mohican influence with a tour on the Lac Du Saint Sacrement with evening and dining cruises fit for Rachael Ray’s discerning palette. Don’t forget to pay homage to your inner-Mohican with a trip to Fort William Henry — where the film’s fierce battle was waged. http://www.visitlakegeorge.com/

Oahu, HI flights | hotels | cars
You wouldn’t think the land of luaus, leis, and hula would bring some of the world’s greatest unsolved mysteries to your living room. Is Jacob just really a figment of Ben’s imagination on LOST? Why is Hurley still so fat after being on the island for months? (even with his hidden pantry). Head to Oahu where the castaways of LOST don’t seem to realize they’re really just on the island of Hawaii and check out Hanauma Bay for some snorkeling and beach hiking. Or for some non-castaway action, try North Shore for some luxury, cocktails, and sunbathing at this popular hot spot. Channel your inner-Sawyer and try to navigate your way off the island with a surf lesson at Waikiki Beach. Then go undercover with Hummer Tours Hawaii- Off-Road Movie Set to see where such famous films as Jurassic Park, Tears of the Sun, Godzilla, and Pearl Harbor were filmed, not to mention up to 10 locations from LOST and the place where Magnum P.I. brought sexy back to private detectives. Ho Brah, what a trip.

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Kayak Surveys The Most Inspiring TV Getaways
As the new television season kicks into high gear, some of the hottest shows are topping Kayak.com’s new survey about TV-inspired getaways. More than 43% would head to Hawaii to find and rescue the castaways of “Lost”. While we’d travel with the cast of “Weeds” (for the conversation of course), 17% of you chose the McHotties of “Grey’s Anatomy”. It seems your love of travel even affects your choice of reality shows with a whopping 47% of Kayakers choosing the “Amazing Race” over other reality shows. See all the results here.

Th..th..th..that’s all, folks

Steve and Paul, Kayak.com co-founders

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Falling for Adventure

Wednesday, September 19th, 2007

Now that record high temperatures are over, it’s time to get outside for a little exercise. Sure the baseball playoffs are calling, but set your TiVo and plan a trip to one of these adventurous destinations. Let’s face it, football tailgating has already added a few pounds so the fresh air and exercise will do you good. Christmas vacation is just too far away to stay sane in the cubicle until then. If it’s a weekend trip you’re after, don’t forget to try Kayak’s new Weekend Search tool.

Helen, GA
flights | hotels | cars
The mountain town of Helen, Georgia is known for more than just exquisite fall foliage, Native American history and frisky mountain people (cue Deliverance music). Get in touch with your adventurous spirit, or your inner hillbilly, and tube the ‘hooch (aka Chattahoochee River) with Alpine Tubing. If you’d like to be in charge of your trajectory, then navigate your way down the river on a guided Kayaking tour instead. Need to exercise your whole body, how bout some mountain climbing at nearby Mount Yonah or perhaps some mountain biking on the Unicoi State Park trail? All this adventure making you thirsty? Plan your trip during the infamous Helen Oktoberfest. From September 13th through October 28th and again from November 1st to November 4th you’ll drink authentic German beer and gorge on wursts at Festhalle. Drink up because you’ll need liquid courage to try your hand…err feet…at Polka dancing.

Budapest, Hungary flights | hotels | cars
Turning leaves and mountain adventure not quite your bag? Head to Hungary and experience a glorious fall holiday rich with history, culture, and scenic perfection. You’ll feel like a real csikos or at least the Hungarian John Wayne while riding horseback among the Buda Hills. Get the lowdown on some history while exploring the Castle cave which was used as an emergency hospital and as an escape route during several wars. If you’re feelin the need for speed, try an off-roading adventure in Budapest’s Adventure Park where you’ll ride an ATV through the northern forests’ steep ravines, canyons, ancient trees, pond and narrow bridges. Now that you’re sufficiently adventured-out, visit one of the traditional thermal baths at Rudas or Gellert Baths. Nothing says relaxation more than frolicking in warm water with naked Europeans.

Billings, MT flights | hotels | cars
No one loves a Rocky Mountain high more than us so head west for a fall adventure in Yellowstone Valley, Montana. Start with a hike through Pictograph Cave State Park where you’ll see historic rock paintings in the breathtaking sandstone caves. Backpack the nearby Beartooth-Absaroka Wilderness where it’s unlikely there will be a cell phone signal for your boss to text you about your late report. For an adventurous day trip, explore Yellowstone and Grand Teton for some good hiking or cycling. You can’t leave Montana without learning to fly fish on the Big Horn River. The historic town of Billings has a lot to offer, so check out a rodeo at the city’s MetraPark and or a little culture at the Billings Symphony Orchestra and Chorale. Thirsty? Head over to The Brewhouse Garage Pub which serves several ales brewed from the waters of the Yellowstone River.

Martha’s Vineyard, MA flights | hotels
We’re not sure if Martha’s Vineyard even exists outside of the fall season; The two seem to go hand in hand. Skip the elbow rubbing hob knobbing with the celebutantes and head out to the five famous lighthouses like the East and West Chop Lighthouse and walk along the surrounding bluffs to get into the New England spirit. Then get adventurous with a kayak or canoe trip on Poucha Pond and Cape Pogue Bay on Chappaquiddick and recite some Keats or limericks about the nearby Nantucket. To really get your heart pumping, go on a whale-watching excursion on the nearby waters of Stellwagen Bank. Next, get off the beaten path with a hike along the rugged Aquinnah Cliffs or a workout along Chilmark Loop. For a walk on the wild side, explore the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary to get an up-close and personal look at wild turkey, geese, osprey, or horseshoe crab. Complete your trip with a tour of all the scandal and gossip of the island with the Vineyard History Tours followed by drinks and live music at the local favorite Ritz Cafe. It’s not a cafe where you’ll mingle with the island’s Buffy’s and Chandlers of the world, it’s a hole in the wall dive for good music, good brew, and a brawling crowd.

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New Weekend Search Tool Uncovers Best Fares for Weekend Travel
Just because summer is over and the boss is cracking down on your PTO doesn’t mean your traveling days are over until next summer. The “man” can’t touch your weekends! Kayak makes weekend travel easier and more affordable with the launch of a new “Weekend Search” tool that allows you to compare prices for upcoming weekends or all weekends within a month. Finally, a website has created an easy to use tool just for the weekend warrior.

Simply select “Weekends” on the flight homepage and tell us where you want to go and when. The results page features a Weekend Snapshot box displaying an overview of dates and prices for all five weekends. Use Kayak’s signature check boxes to compare prices for two or more weekends.

Livin on the edge,

Steve and Paul, Kayak.com co-founders

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Off to Market We Go

Wednesday, September 5th, 2007

Kick off your fall with a scavenger hunt around some of the best markets in the world. No, not your local Piggly Wiggly or Stop ‘n Shop, we’re talking open air stalls; fresh, locally grown produce; snake charming, and antiques straight from grandma’s attic. Whatever you’re looking for, we’re going to get you there. Just bring us back a souvenir.

Brimfield flights | hotels | cars
The Brimfield Antique Show and Market homepage will tell you how many days, hours, minutes, and seconds you have left to come see their big bash from September 4th through the 9th. This largest outdoor antiques show in the world features over 6,000 dealers. We’re sure you can find a curio cabinet, end table or vintage textiles in there somewhere, rivaling the best finds from Antiques Road Show. Take advantage of the Artist Open Studio Tour to meet and greet local talent displaying their works of art. You’ll also see local weavers and claymasters hard at work. While you’re nursing your arts n’ crafts hangover, enjoy some of the historic flavor in nearby Sturbridge at the Cedar Street Restaurant.

Kauai flights | hotels | cars
We’ve got a few markets with our name on them in Kauai. There are markets six days a week throughout the island from Koloa Ball Park, Hawaiian Farmers of Hanalei, Kekaha Neighborhood Center, and West Kauai Agriculture Association. Each one brings you amazing fruits like pineapple, green papayas, star fruit, and other local treats, not to mention crafts and exotic fresh flowers. Try the Hanalei market for fresh fish and chat up the owners before eating at their famed Hanalei Dolphin Restaurant. Or take your fresh finds on a picnic to the Na Pali Coast and dine along the dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches.

Sicily flights | hotels | cars
Sicily has a long history bursting with chaotic and flavorful outdoor markets. You can find an abundant supply of daily food markets selling fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, and sausages. Or try Giardini Naxos, held the third Saturday and last Sunday of every month except July and August, where you will find clothing, jewelry, shoes, fruits, vegetables, and hagglers galore. Once you’ve shopped till you’ve dropped, hit the beach. This quaint beach town encourages relaxing along the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna backdrop. Next up, visit the Piazza Trinitá Market in Mascalucia which sells a number of odd wares including authentic Sicilian puppets, hand-painted carts, and ceramic molds. If you feel just a bit gluttonous on your shopping spree, just stop over at the nearby 19th-century church and confess your sins. Penance is three pizzas, two glasses of wine and three more days of shopping. Amen.

Oaxaca flights | hotels | cars
Where can you find mescal, BBQ grasshoppers, tropical fruits, turkeys, cheeses and local crafts? Oaxaca, Mexico hosts a variety of authentic markets that draws locals and tourists alike. On Saturdays, try the open-aired market of Tlacolula and purchase farm fresh animals and see the locals in authentic traditional dress. Also on Saturdays, watch the Trique Indian weavers make rugs and textiles for sale before picking out chocolates, jewelry, sandals, hammocks and more at Abastos Market. Sample the soft white cheeses rolled into balls called quesillo at the daily Benito Juarez Market, the oldest and arguably most popular market in Oaxaca. Here you will also find some of the best mole sauce, honey, and cacao beans around. Need to unwind after a long day of eating balls of cheese? Party seekers can check out the daily La Merced Market and pick up cheap mescal and tequila along with bulk quantities of chocolates and tortillas for your vacation bash. Olé.

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Green is everywhere these days
After last week’s eco-themed newsletter, several readers responded that and environmental sensibility means “thinking green” with every trip, not just visiting ecologically diverse destinations. To get some suggestions, we contacted our friends at Treehugger.com, a leading eco-blog, to see if they had any suggestions on how to be more environmentally friendly while on the road. Here’s what they got:

  1. Take Responsibility with Carbon Offsets - Flying generates significant greenhouse gas emissions. Unless you happen to own Boeing, there is little you can do to improve the fuel economy of the average jumbo, but carbon offsets from a reputable supplier can fund programs that reduce carbon emissions by the amount created by your flight. These programs can include funding energy efficient lighting in developing countries or planting trees. TreeHugger’s guide to carbon offsets can help you understand the options and find a vendor.
  2. Stay Mindful - Much of what you can do to stay green while traveling is exactly what you’d do if you stayed at home. It’s easy to be wasteful with a hotel staff picking up behind you, but fight complacency! Look for recycling facilities in your hotel, turn off the lights and AC when leaving your room, and let the hotel know that changing your linens and towels every day is an unnecessary luxury. If your hotel isn’t making it easy to be green, tell them you expect more or support brands that have an environmental sensibility.
  3. Travel Doesn’t End at the Airport - While flying may be unavoidable, local transportation is another matter. Research public transportation options in advance, and you might be surprised to find options that are faster and cheaper, as well as emitting less carbon. Renting a bike is another way to get around, which has the added benefit of seeing the city and getting some exercise. If you do have to rent a car, ask for the most fuel efficient options - it may be an opportunity to try out that hybrid you always wanted.

For more ideas, visit Treehugger.com.

Don’t forget to negotiate,

Steve and Paul, Kayak co-founders

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