Wanderlust Wednesday: Isn't Maltese a Kind of Falcon?

I sometimes get this question when I tell people my heritage, and that I'm part Maltese. Yes, it is. You've probably also heard of a Maltese Dog or the Maltese cross, but it's also a nationality used to describe the people that come from the small islands of Malta in the Mediterranean (Malta, Camino and Gozo). While I have never been there, I've always been very curious about the country, especially since I have a small connection to it. I do have family there, apparently, but Malta is still such a mystery to me, and I wondered if that's the case for other people outside Europe. Turns out, it is. But Malta has been stepping up its game lately in an effort to become more than just a vague dog breed reference.

Valletta, Malta's capital city © Wikipedia

According to TravelPulse, the Maltese Tourism Authority is working on an educational program for agents who can then spread the word throughout the U.S. about Malta. After all, it has a lot to offer. This culturally rich region is influenced by Phoenician, Roman, Greek, Arabic and North African cultures, thanks in large part to its location, right in the middle of the Mediterranean. It's packed with history, beautiful landmarks, stunning old-world architecture and breathtaking beaches and coastlines.

St. Paul's Cathedral, Mdina © Wikipedia

Despite it's small size, Malta boasts eleven – yes, eleven – UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, Valletta (the capital city), and seven Megalithic Temples. The main island of Malta is where most of the action is, and that's where many of the major churches and attractions can be found, including St. John's Co-Cathedral with chapels dedicated to each dedicated language division of the Maltese Knights, there are nine. Mdina is at the center of the island and is known as the silent city, since no cars run through it. I imagine the towns to have a similar look and feel as many of the European ones I've visited, especially in Italy.

Blue Lagoon Bay, Comino © Wikipedia

Most of the temples are located on Gozo, a tiny island known for its rugged landscape and lovely coastline. This would be a great place to take a trek or walking tour to experience the natural beauty of the countryside. Camino is the smallest island, sitting at only 1.3 square miles, but people still visit to spend time at the Blue Lagoon, with crisp, clear water that's perfect for snorkeling.

I'm excited to see if Malta can boost its tourism numbers, especially from the U.S. market. In 2013, the country attracted 19,052 Americans, up 8.2% from the previous year, so that's definitely an improvement. I think the biggest things to overcome are the lack of knowledge about the islands and the low number of direct flights. Educating travel agents is huge, since they play a big role in promoting destinations to travelers looking for something off the beaten path. They can also tout Malta cultural riches, which many Americans, I think, would be very interested to hear about. If the island can work with other European destinations and airlines, they should be able to offer more flights in and out of the country. But it would also be great to do some active marketing in regions where Malta gets most of its visitors, because return business is also important, and word of mouth is extremely powerful.

Malta is still a big mystery to me, even with my few hours of research. I believe a much more in depth look at the country is in order, and so I will be adding it to my wanderlust list of destinations.

News Update: Alaska Airlines Offers More Overhead Space, Greyhound Adapts to Next Generation and Airport Charges for Breathing Clean Air

Alaska Airlines to Increase Size of Overhead Bins

Los Angeles Times - July 14, 2014

Boeing's Next-Generation 737 and 737 Max planes © Marian Lockhart / Boeing

Alaska Airlines announced that it will be the first airline to get Boeing's Next-Generation 737 and 737 MAX planes, which are equipped with overhead bins designed to handle 50% more luggage than standard bins. The new bins will hang a few inches lower than traditional bins, and are said to hold about 174 standard carry-on bags. This will allow more passengers to carry on their personal items without worrying about overhead storage space running out.

#MyTake: The boarding process has gotten a little ridiculous in recent years, especially after airlines started charging for checked bags a few years ago. Now, people are cramming as much as they can into their carry-ons so they don't have to pay, and bins are filling up quickly because people's bags are incredibly large (yet still manage to fit up there, somehow). In order to snag that limited space, people line up around the door and crowd in as quickly as they can. It's a nightmare. So having more overhead bin space is a great solution, and Boeing has guaranteed that at least 50 more bags will be able to fit in the bins of its new planes. That is a lot of extra baggage–no pun intended–people can take with them.

European Travel is Up...

Travel Pulse - July 14, 2014

Europe is still the world's No. 1 tourist destination, according to the results of the European Travel Commission report "European Tourism 2014 - Trends & Prospects." The report found that Europe had 563 million international arrivals and more than 50 percent of the market share for worldwide tourism. Despite the positive news, it's uncertain how long Europe will hold the top spot, especially with all the other alternatives out there. The ETC acknowledged that it must continue to innovate with its offerings and marketing to inspire and excite potential travelers.

#MyTake: Europe has long been a popular destination, so it's no surprise that it's at the top of the tourist destination list. However, I am slightly taken aback that other destinations have not overtaken it yet. Think about it, so many places around the world are much more accessible thanks to the advances in airline technology and the expansion of populations – not to mention all those modern-day adventurers exposing us to the lesser-known places. The fact is that travelers are evolving, and Europe is no longer the exotic destination it once was even five years ago. The unfamiliar coasts of Southeast Asia have gotten a lot of attention from travelers lately. I can count at least a dozen people I know who have visited Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam in the last six months. Europe has a lot to compete with, especially as more and more destinations entice travelers seeking the new and undiscovered.

Greyhound Revamps its Image for the Next Generation

USA Today - July 14, 2014

Greyhound has been around for 100 years (2014 marks that moments birthday!), and the company has been revamping its image to appeal to the next generation of travelers. The company now offers free Wi-Fi on much of its upgraded fleet, offers new express routes with non-stop service to major cities and will roll out a mobile app for more convenient booking. Greyhound is also touting its extra leg room (something you don't get on a plane without spending more money) and its complimentary internet that keeps you connected the whole trip (again, unlike airlines that charge for that perk). The company says it plans for more than 90% of its coaches to be either brand new or refurbished by the end of the summer, and these upgrades include leather seats, power outlets and free Wi-Fi. Bus stations have also been updated with plasma TVs and eco-friendly amenities.

#MyTake: While bus travel lost much of its appeal when airlines and trains took off, it is still a convenient and economical way to travel. And many Millennials can take advantage of a cheap ticket and a trip that lets them stay connected the entire time. Plus, the hassle of airports (security lines, baggage fees, long wait times, weather delays) has given Greyhound an opening to promote it's frequent trips, low fares, no wait times and plenty of storage space. Those sound pretty nice to someone who might be fed up with airlines. Still, the time factor continues to be something to combat. Even with getting to the airport two hours early, a flight from one end of the country to the other is still much faster than a bus.

Airport Charges Passengers for Breathing Clean Air

CNN - July 11, 2014

In a world of never-ending travel fees, we're used to paying for priority seating and checked bags. Now, one airport in Venezuela has started charging for "clean air." Basically, anyone flying out of Simon Bolivar International Airport in Caracas has to pay a fee of $18 (127 bolivars) to pay for a new air conditioning unit that the airport says "eliminates contaminants" and injects ozone into the atmosphere to improve the environment. 

#MyTake: I have almost become numb to all the new fees that keep popping up in air travel. But this is just petty. I really don't have any analysis of why the airport thinks this is necessary. And according to twitter comments, the airport should be focusing on other things besides the air quality. Apparently the bathrooms are horrible, the toilets have no water and there are stray dogs wandering around. Also, this newfangled AC doesn't seem to actually make the airport any cooler, according to travelers. So, basically, this is just annoying and shouldn't have been implemented.

Throwback Thursday: Going Dutch in Amsterdam

Yesterday, the Netherlands and Argentina battled it out for the last spot in the finals of the World Cup. The winner of the match would take on Germany in the championship. I was a bit torn during the match. I have some Dutch heritage and I've visited the Netherlands, so part of me wanted the men in orange to pull through. But I also wanted to see a South American team make it to the finals, and Argentina was a bit of an underdog, so my heart went out to them. In the end, Argentina prevailed! And while I am incredibly happy for them, and I plan to cheer them on against Germany, I couldn't help but be a little sad for the Netherlands. I had their back four years ago when they took on Spain in the finals, and this year I was rooting for them the whole tournament. As they left the field yesterday, I couldn't help but think back to my visit to Amsterdam back in 2008 and how much fun I had partying with the Dutch. In honor of the Netherlands and throwback Thursday, here are a few images from that memorable trip…

Wanderlust Wednesday: A Spa Getaway

Work has been a non-stop stress-fest. Hundreds of emails, looming deadlines, last-minute projects, hours of editing and fact checking. It's enough to drive anyone a little crazy.

I am in desperate need of a spa day – or week. I was reading about a few high-end spa options in Las Vegas, including one at Sahra Spa in The Cosmopolitan with a private suite that includes a living area with TV and wet bar, personal treatment room with two whirlpool tubs, steam room and shower. Definitely sounds nice! I'm not sure it's within my price range, but when it comes to overall wellness, I think it's worth a splurge.

I'm not exactly sure where I would want to go on my spa vacation, but somewhere tropical or deep in the mountains sounds nice. A truly remote location where I can disconnect, relax and rejuvenate. The latest issue of Destinations Travel Magazine had a short article about the importance of wellness, and how vacations are essential to our health and happiness. I definitely agree, and maybe on my next trip, I will take part in some of this luxury…

All images credited to Destinations Travel Magazine

…But until that vacation comes, I will continue to power through work, eagerly awaiting the day I get to kick off my shoes and just let go.

Where would you like to spend a spa vacation? Share your thoughts! I'd love to hear them!

Topic Tuesday: GOP Picks Cleveland for 2016 Convention

This just in: the Republican National Committee selected Cleveland to host the 2016 presidential convention.

Cleveland Skyline © Wikipedia

This is a huge win for the city, which beat out Dallas for the convention. Cleveland convention officials view the event as an opportunity to promote the city as a great meeting and convention destination, as well as a solid leisure destination. The city has undergone billions in new development and renovations downtown, and is eager to show off the recently opened 750,000-square-foot convention center.

The city will provide venues and security for the four-day event, and provide hotel rooms for the estimated 40,000–50,000 delegates, journalists, party officials and guests that will descend upon Cleveland in the summer of 2016.

But apart from the convention center, meeting spaces and hotels, Cleveland will also take the opportunity to promote its culture, nightlife, dining scene and attractions. These conventions bring a lot of national attention to the city that hosts them, as well as many writers who will document their experience, not just at the convention and during the presentations, but also around the city.

So, what can visitors do in Cleveland? A lot, actually.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame © Wikipedia

The top attraction has got to be The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, showcasing the evolution of the musical phenomenon through dozens of ongoing and temporary exhibits. You can see John Lennon's Gibson J-160E acoustic guitar, or artifacts from contemporary artists like The Black Keys.  The venue also hosts concerts throughout the year, and the gift shop is free to browse.

Interact with nature at the Cleveland Botanical Garden, or come face-to-face with wildlife at the Cleveland Aquarium or Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. There are plenty of museums covering a range of interests, from art to history to sports. Marvel at the 45,000 works of art at the Cleveland Museum of Art, discover bones, gems and more at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, or pay homage to one of America's favorite pastimes at the Pro Football Hall of Fame (located in Canton).

West Bank of The Flat © Wikipedia

If you prefer the outdoors, Cleveland delivers there too. The city is called the "Emerald Necklace," due to its lush greenery and thousands of acres of hiking, biking, boating and swimming. Do some kayaking right downtown, in The Flats, or take a nine-mile bike ride at Cleveland Lakefront State Park.

Foodies will revel in the selections at Cleveland West Side Market, featuring more than 100 vendors selling meats, cheeses, baked goods and prepared foods. And speaking of food, you'll find an incredible array of dining options, including delicious spots from celebrity chef Michael Symon such as Lola, Lolita and B Spot. Cleveland's diversity also makes it a great food destination, with a plethora of ethnic restaurants that run the gamut of traditional, family-run establishments to trendy, must-go-there-now hot spots. You can also enjoy a number of distinct bars, breweries and wineries – yes, wineries, 50 to be exact!

West Side Market © Wikipedia

Cleveland also offers great shopping, unique annual events and festivals, thrilling nightlife and entertaining sporting competitions.

I think the convention will definitely be a boost for Cleveland, a city that seems to be rising and is ready to show the country what it's made of.

News Update: Airline Security Tightens Overseas, Expedia Acquires Wotif Group and Tourists are Bound for Norway

Airline Security Tightens on Overseas Flights to U.S.

USA Today - July 7, 2014

© Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg

The Department of Homeland Security officials announced that security would tighten at airports where flights head directly to the U.S. The Transportation Security Administration said that as part of routine screenings at the overseas airports, officers may ask owners to turn on devices including cellphones. If those devices are dead or cannot turn on, they won't be permitted on the flight. The change is part of an attempt to anticipate the next attack. This comes as violence in Iraq and threats from al-Qaeda have become more of a concern.

MyTake: This is just another precaution taken by our country to avoid future terrorist attacks. Even though the additional security can be irritating, there hasn't been much criticism to it. I think most people are accustomed to these extra safety measures, and most people are happy to oblige in return for a sense of security. Just make sure you have your devices charged fully when you get to the airport.

U.S. Vacation Timeshare Industry has Banner Year in 2013

Hospitality Net - July 7, 2014

A new study found that the U.S. timeshare industry enjoyed significant growth in 2013. The study, conducted by Ernst & Young and commissioned by the American Resort Development Association, found that sales volume increased nearly 11% compared to 2012, average sales price rose 9% and there were 29% more resorts planned for the upcoming year. Occupancy remained steady around 76%. 

MyTake: The numbers don't lie, timeshare growth has made a comeback. The incremental growth has been going on for a while now, due mostly to more people renting out their properties, and travelers eager to have a different housing experience when they're on vacation. Hotels are no longer the first choice when booking accommodations, especially with websites like Airbnb and HomeAway offering great properties for a reasonable rate. Although timeshares may not be the most prevalent properties on those websites, it's clear that the success of the platforms is having a positive effect on the timeshare industry.

Expedia Acquires Australia's Wotif Group

Skift - July 6, 2014

Expedia Inc. agreed to acquire Australia's Wotif Group for $658 million, marking another major merger/acquisition in the online travel market. Wotif owns brands in the Asia-Pacific region like Lastminute.com.au, Travel.com.au, LateStays.com and GoDo.com.au, among others. The purchase allows Expedia to expand it's presence in that region of the world.

MyTake: Online travel companies are trying to bulk up their offerings, especially in international markets, as more and more people are eager to take long trips to exotic locations. Expedia's acquisition will help it expand in the Asia-Pacific region and help it grow it's global hotel business. This move comes after Expedia announced its acquisition of a small European car rental site Auto Escape Group. It will also help Expedia compete against Priceline Group, which just acquired restaurant-reservation site OpenTable in June. I expect we'll see a few more mergers/acquisitions in the online travel market as companies continue to add more platforms and give consumers more choices when it comes to travel.

Tourists Are Bound for Norway, Thanks to Disney

Travel Weekly - July 6, 2014

Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that Disney's animated film Frozen has experienced overwhelming success since it's release, creating a huge fan base of people eager to travel to the country that inspired the film: Norway. The country has experienced a major surge in visitors. Tour operators have reported anywhere between 20% and 40% increases in sales to Norway for 2014, and total arrivals from New York to Oslo in the first quarter of 2014 were up 57% from the year before. While the movie certainly got people excited about the country, Norway also played it's own role. It partnered with Disney to launch a global campaign to raise awareness about the destination. 

MyTake: It's pretty typical for a destination to take advantage of the popularity of a show or movie in order to attract travelers. Norway was incredibly smart to partner with Disney, a global powerhouse that is known in households all over the world. The success of the movie has not only prompted tour operators and the country of Norway to offer special packages, but Disney's own tour brand created an eight-day Norway itinerary to meet demand. The high level of tourists most likely has to do with the fact that the movie has garnered a very large youth fan base, and children play a big factor in trip planning. If they want to go see where Anna and Elsa live, then their parents will make every attempt to get them there.

Foodie Friday: Grilling Out All Over the World

Grilling is synonymous with Fourth of July. The idea of throwing some meat on the grill and spending an afternoon with friends and family outside in the yard just screams patriotism. I am personally a huge fan of barbecue, love cook outs and definitely look forward to chowing down on some delicious burgers and hot dogs this Fourth of July.

But grilling is not just an American tradition. In fact, many other countries have been cooking up various meats over an open flame for decades. The world is filled with great grilling.

The South Africans love to grill, or as they call it braai. In fact, they have a National Braai Day in September. They love to grill boerewors (a kind of sausage), as well as steaks, chicken and chops. When I visited South Africa, our friend took us to a restaurant that specialized in braai. Since we didn't know much about the meat selection, our friend took care of ordering, and a few minutes later we were served a wooden plank piled high with smoked chicken and steak, as well as liver, heart and kidney.

Braai in South Africa

If you've been to a Latin-style restaurant, you've probably seen "asado" somewhere on the menu. This is the South American word for grill, so when you order carne asada, it's just grilled steak. Asado is huge in South America. It's just a wood fire, burnt down to coals, topped with metal crosses that hold chunks of meat. The meat doesn't need much, just salt before and during grilling. Obviously, you can add a marinade if so desired, but all this meat really needs is a little salsa, and you've got one delicious meal.

Everyone loves a good kabob, and in Southeast Asia, they cook up their own version called Satay. It takes many different forms depending on the region. You can find cow and goat meat boiled and grilled from Western Sumatra, or tenderized water buffalo meat covered in coconut-milky sauce from an area in Java. All meat is strung together by a skewer and grilled over a fire.

A major part of Japanese cuisine is Hibashi, a form of cooking meat, veggies and noodles over a grill. It's the main form of cooking in many restaurants across the country, and people love to watch as grillers mix up scrumptious bowls of food. The video above gives you an idea of this form of grilling.

There are plenty of other styles of grilling going on all over the world, from Chuanr/Char Siu in China to Mangal in the Middle East. While I'll be enjoying some classic American grilling this evening – hamburger, hot dogs and sausages over a charcoal or gas grill – I definitely look forward to trying some of these other specialities sometime in the future.