MJ’s Travel Favorites 4-4-10

What a week! I’ve been nursing a sore shoulder, and some residual problems, so I’ve had plenty of time in front of a keyboard to read all the travel news going on, along with trying to book my summer flight to Rome. Following the travel news was a lot more interesting – the flight costs were enough to send even the most level-headed traveler into a bout of depression. Oh well, this trip is a matter of convenience and timing over price.

Take a look at what I’ve been reading:

Rick Steves Blog Gone Europe has a discussion of which is most efficient – using a paper or electronic version of a guidebook. The comments are really interesting, especially the one that points out a person using an iPhone won’t be branded as a tourist. Where do you chime in on the topic?
The Vacation Gals offer tips for stretching your budget on a Paris vacation. It’s an expensive city, but there are things you can do to save a few Euros.
PlanetEye Traveler – On the Road has a great review of an all-inclusive resort in Cancun, Mexico. For many families this is an easy way to spend a vacation, taking some of the decision making off your hands.
La Bella Vita explains why you should visit the bottom of the boot. Italy, that is. And another post on a day trip to Messina. Since I’ll be headed that way in a couple of months, I made some notes of things I’ll want to see and do.
Travel Savvy Mom debunks some of the myths around cruising and theme parks. Sometimes it’s okay to just have fun, and a Disney cruise may be just what the kids want.
Luxuo breaks the news that one of my favorite NYC stores, Takashimaya, will be closing come June. If you’ll be there between now and then, you’ll want to stop off to snag some bargains.
LavozLibre has the full scoop on the calendar that Comet Flight Attendants are selling. The airline is in bankruptcy and it doesn’t look like any of the Flight Attendants are going to collect on the nine months of back wages that they are due. Here’s hoping the calendar gets them at least a bit of what they’re owed.
PlanetEye Traveler – Amsterdam attempts to explain one of Van Gogh’s famous paintings. See if you agree.
The Globe profiles a new type of accommodation – the gastrotel, a combination of gastro-pubs and hotels. The pub offers a few rooms upstairs, allowing guests a truly local stay. I’d stay there, would you?
Sharing Travel Experiences has a great roundup of unique movie theaters. Out with boring cineplexes and in with these marvelous venues.
Location Independent Professionals reminds us that being location independent isn’t always the best answer.
Intelligent Travel has some good shopping advice for collectors of Delftware. Study up and don’t get taken in by shoddy products.
Consumer Traveler alerts us that American and Lufthansa may be on strike soon. Nothing is for certain, of course, but I always take labor news into consideration when choosing which airline to fly.
Another gem from Luxuo teases us that Johnny Depp’s yacht is available for charter. At only $130,000 per week, all I have to do is get 130 or so of my closest friends together for a little vacation. . . .
PlanetEye Traveler – Vancouver gets me in the mood for spring with a round up of some of the city’s beautiful gardens. Now if the weather will just cooperate a little bit.
If you’re looking for a new piece of luggage, you’ll want to check out the review from My Mélange. Luggage selection depends on personal preferences, so if you’re looking for information on a lightweight roller, you’ll want to read this.