Travel Web sites say average spring break airfares up, but hotel rates down

Spring break travel: Airfares up, hotel rates down

NEW YORK – Average airfares for spring break are up from last year but hotel rates are down, according to data from Bing Travel and Travelocity.
Travelocity found average airfares are up 9 percent compared to last year, with the average domestic roundtrip flight at about $351, while hotel …. Source article  : Travel Web sites say average spring break airfares up, but hotel rates down.

Chesley ‘Sully’ Sullenberger, ‘Miracle on the Hudson’ pilot, retiring from US Airways

‘Miracle on the Hudson’ pilot retiring
NEW YORK – Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, who piloted a US Airways flight during its emergency water landing on the Hudson River in January of last year, is retiring.

Sullenberger, 59, joined US Airways’ predecessor airline in 1980. Until 2007, the mandatory retirement age was 60 for commercial pilots in the … Read more »»».

Obama greenlights program to promote US as tourism destination for international travelers

Obama signs bill to entice foreign travelers to US
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has signed a bill creating a program to promote the U.S. as a premier tourism destination for international travelers.
The U.S. Travel Association calls it a major step in addressing the drop-off in such visits to the U.S. during the past … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama greenlights program to promote US as tourism destination for international travelers.

Virginia tourism’s latest promotion offers family vacations as prize

Va tourism sweepstakes offers family vacations

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Tourism Corporation is offering families a chance to win a free vacation in the commonwealth.
The agency kicked off a new promotion, the Virginia is for Lovers Family Vacation Sweepstakes, on Wednesday at the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond.
Four trips are being offered. The prize … Read more »»».

National Park Service predicts DC’s peak cherry blossom bloom will start April 3

Park Service predicts peak for DC cherry blossoms

WASHINGTON – Those famous pink and white flowers in Washington are expected to bloom on schedule on trees around the nation’s capital as soon as the end of March, the National Park Service predicted Thursday.
Horticulturalist Rob DeFeo, who keeps a close eye on the city’s cherry blossom trees … Read more »»».

National Park Service to predict peak bloom dates for DC’s cherry blossom festival

Park Service to predict DC cherry blossom bloom

WASHINGTON – The National Park Service is hinting at when spring will arrive in Washington.
Organizers of the National Cherry Blossom Festival will be announcing the predicted peak bloom dates Thursday for when the pink and white flowers will be in full color.
The 2010 festival is scheduled to run … Read more : National Park Service to predict peak bloom dates for DC’s cherry blossom festival.

TSA announces 10 more airports to get body scanners to detect hidden explosives, contraband

Airport body scanners spreading across US
BOSTON – The Transportation Security Administration is spreading airport body-scanner technology across the country.
A TSA official said Friday that units will be fielded next week in Chicago, and in the coming months at Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; San Jose, Calif.; Columbus, Ohio; San Diego; Charlotte, N.C.; Cincinnati; Los Angeles; …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Passengers leave food poisoned-stricken cruise ship in Brazil

Passengers leave cruise ship in Brazil
SAO PAULO – Health authorities have allowed passengers to leave a cruise ship that had been quarantined in southeastern Brazil after hundreds were stricken with vomiting and diarrhea.

Royal Caribbean spokesman Rodrigo Dionisio says the 310 people who suffered gastrointestinal disorders aboard the Vision of the Seas have recovered.
He says the … Read more »».

3 new full-body scanners in Boston at vanguard of new wave of US airline security upgrade

US upgrading airline security with more scanners

BOSTON – The Transportation Security Administration is fielding a second, more widespread wave of full-body scanners at U.S. airports amid heightened concern about hidden explosives.
Three new machines going online at Boston’s Logan International Airport were being displayed for the media Friday.
They go into service Monday at a terminal used … Original article on : 3 new full-body scanners in Boston at vanguard of new wave of US airline security upgrade.

JetBlue launches 1-day, $10 fare sale between JFK and first 10 destinations

JetBlue launches $10 sale to first 10 destinations

NEW YORK – JetBlue is holding a one-day sale offering $10 fares between New York’s JFK airport and the carrier’s first 10 destinations in celebration of its 10th year of operation.
JetBlue is offering the discount fares Monday on all remaining seats for travel Tuesday and Wednesday. Cities included … Original source on Gaea Times at : JetBlue launches 1-day, $10 fare sale between JFK and first 10 destinations.

Art works, world leaders coming to Denver for monthlong Latin American culture showcase

Latin American cultural event slated for Denver
DENVER – Latin American artists will showcase works ranging from a mural chiseled out of vinyl and a large-scale reproduction of the first ever particle accelerator during a monthlong Denver event that Mayor John Hickenlooper said will highlight the Western Hemisphere’s common heritage.
The event featuring artists from …. Original source  : Art works, world leaders coming to Denver for monthlong Latin American culture showcase.

Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Detroit’s Belle Isle kicks off year of 50th anniversary events

Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Detroit marks 50th

DETROIT – The Detroit Historical Society is kicking off a yearlong observance of the 50th anniversary of the Dossin Great Lakes Museum this weekend.
The events begin Saturday with a symposium for maritime enthusiasts at the museum on Belle Isle featuring author Robert Schultz. His books include “We Were … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Detroit’s Belle Isle kicks off year of 50th anniversary events.

Indonesian villages near ‘hobbit’ dig site cash in on craze to find little people

Indonesian villages cashing in on ‘hobbit’ craze

RAMPASASA, Indonesia – I started hearing the offers soon after arriving at the Liang Bua cave in the mountains of Flores island.
“You want to see a living hobbit?” a guard at the cave whispered. “I can take you there but it will cost 500,000 rupiah ($55).”
Kornelis Jaman was referring … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Indonesian villages near ‘hobbit’ dig site cash in on craze to find little people.

Cambodia to preserve sites at Khmer Rouge stronghold for tourism

Cambodia to preserve Khmer Rouge sites for tourism

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – Cambodia will preserve 14 sites at the last bastion of the murderous Khmer Rouge, including the home of their leader Pol Pot, as tourist attractions, an official said Wednesday.
Following Cabinet approval last week, the sites at Anlong Veng will be protected from destruction by … Original article on : Cambodia to preserve sites at Khmer Rouge stronghold for tourism.

10 weeks after program starts, Disney hits cap of 1 million volunteers signing up for free tix

1 million volunteers register for free Disney tix

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Disney reached its goal Tuesday of getting 1 million people to sign up for a day of volunteer work in exchange for a free one-day ticket to a Disney park.
Under the “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day” program, Disney is giving a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 10 weeks after program starts, Disney hits cap of 1 million volunteers signing up for free tix.

Discount carrier AirTran offers low fares through November on some flights and some seats

AirTran launches sale for flights into November

DALLAS – AirTran Airways announced a sale Tuesday with fares as low as $44 one way, plus taxes and fees, for travel from March 19 through Nov. 16.
Several airlines matched AirTran on routes where they compete, said Tom Parsons, CEO of travel site BestFares.com.
HGe said the sale doesn’t include …. Original article  : Discount carrier AirTran offers low fares through November on some flights and some seats.

Government says US airlines improved on-time performance in January

Airline improve on-time performance
DALLAS – U.S. airlines had their best January in four years when it comes to arriving on time.

The U.S. Transportation Department said Tuesday that the airlines averaged a 78.7 percent on-time arrival rate in January.
Hawaiian Airlines, largely isolated from the sort of bad weather that plagues carriers on the mainland, held its …. Read the original article  : Government says US airlines improved on-time performance in January.

Pancake restaurant in Smoky Mountains resort town to celebrate 50 years with 1960 prices

Smokies pancake restaurant celebrating 50 years

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – With the majesty of the Smoky Mountains as a backdrop, the Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg has been serving locals and visitors alike for 50 years.
Located in an endless row of T-shirt shops, candy stores and hotels, it’s offered a tasty start for tourists in the resort town …. Read the original article  : Pancake restaurant in Smoky Mountains resort town to celebrate 50 years with 1960 prices.

Continental Airlines CEO says his airline will cancel flights before facing fines for delays

Continental CEO will cancel flights before fines

DALLAS – Continental Airlines plans to cancel flights rather than risk stiff fines under new federal rules designed to punish carriers for delaying passengers.
CEO Jeff Smisek says that the airline will cancel flights that might be delayed three hours.
Under a federal rule taking effect next month, airlines can be …. Read the original article  : Continental Airlines CEO says his airline will cancel flights before facing fines for delays.

Smithsonian receives rare Harriet Tubman collection for national black history museum

Smithsonian receives rare Harriet Tubman items

WASHINGTON – Tourists and history buffs will be able to see some rare, personal belongings of abolitionist Harriet Tubman when a museum of African-American history opens on the National Mall.
On Wednesday, historian Charles L. Blockson donated about 40 objects from Tubman’s life to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American … Original article on : Smithsonian receives rare Harriet Tubman collection for national black history museum.

Rarely seen Italian Renaissance painting will be on view at Milwaukee Art Museum

Milwaukee museum to show Raphael painting
MILWAUKEE – Rarely lent from the Pitti Palace in Florence, Italy, Raphael Sanzio’s painting “The Woman with the Veil” is making its last United States’ appearance likely for many years at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Responding to Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” Raphael developed his own idea of beauty in the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Rarely seen Italian Renaissance painting will be on view at Milwaukee Art Museum.

DC Holocaust museum, open since 1993, now says it has had 30 million visitors

DC Holocaust museum passes 30 million visitors

WASHINGTON – The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum says 30 million visitors have now come through its doors.
The museum said Wednesday that the milestone was passed this week. The museum has been open since April 1993. A museum spokesman says 1.75 million people visited last year.
Museum officials also note …. Source  : DC Holocaust museum, open since 1993, now says it has had 30 million visitors.

In the footsteps of Moses: Ascending Mount Sinai in the dark, cold night for a warm sunrise

In the footsteps of Moses, climbing Mount Sinai

ST. CATHERINE, Egypt – In the Bible, Moses climbs Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments.
But he was the chosen one, and I am a mere mortal. Divine intervention seemed unlikely as I stood at the base of the mountain, chilled to the bone at 2 a.m., with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : In the footsteps of Moses: Ascending Mount Sinai in the dark, cold night for a warm sunrise.

New Paris Sex-hibit bares all: erotic ceramics from ancient Peru tell story about elite power

Warning: Ancient sex on show in Paris
PARIS – The latest show at Paris’ Quai Branly museum comes with a warning for visitors: “This exhibition of Moche ceramics shows sexual acts of an explicit nature.”

But the extraordinary and graphic testimonial of the ancient Moche civilization of Peru isn’t about physical pleasure or procreation, according to the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Smart Spending: 4 tips for affordable but classy wedding gifts

Smart Spending: Wedding gifts on a budget
PORTLAND, Ore. – Spring has sprung and so have the wedding invitations. They’ll be joyous events, but finding the perfect gifts to bring along can be stressful during these tough economic times.

Here are a few ways to cope if a crystal sugar bowl or a setting of designer china … Read : Smart Spending: 4 tips for affordable but classy wedding gifts.

Savannah, Ga., resurrects Ellis Square, a historic treasure lost to 1954 development

Savannah, Ga., square destroyed in 1950s reopens

SAVANNAH, Ga. – For more than 55 years, Savannah counted Ellis Square among its lost historic treasures.
Of the city’s 22 public squares, Ellis Square was one of the first plotted in 1733. Since 1872, it was home to the City Market where farmers sold crops directly to shoppers.
Then came … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Savannah, Ga., resurrects Ellis Square, a historic treasure lost to 1954 development.

No scam: Aussie taxi driver wins contest to take tourists on 4,000-mile journey for $23,000

Aussie cabbie to take tourists on 4,000-mile drive

PERTH, Australia – A Western Australian taxi driver named the state’s favorite cabbie in an online contest has won the right to take 22 passengers on a 4,000-mile (6,500-kilometer) ride.
Oh, and 25,000 Australian dollars ($23,000) for his trouble.
Doug Slater won the most votes in an online poll run … Read more : No scam: Aussie taxi driver wins contest to take tourists on 4,000-mile journey for $23,000.

JetBlue waves fees on rebooking NY flights after storm causes cancellations Saturday

JetBlue waives fees on rebooking Sat. NY flights

NEW YORK – JetBlue Airways says customers whose flights were canceled Saturday because of poor weather in the New York area can rebook their flights without paying extra.
The airline said customers flying to, from or through New York area airports can reschedule the flight though Thursday without any … Read more : JetBlue waves fees on rebooking NY flights after storm causes cancellations Saturday.

State Department made decision to authorize Americans’ departure from Mexico before killings

Decision on Americans’ departure was before deaths

WASHINGTON – After deciding last week to help family members of U.S. consulate employees in northern Mexico leave the area, the State Department waited until Sunday to announce the move.
On Saturday three people associated with the consulate in Ciudad Juarez were gunned down.
It’s not clear that an earlier announcement … Original source on Gaea Times at : State Department made decision to authorize Americans’ departure from Mexico before killings.

Free food won’t fly for many on Continental Airlines starting this fall

Continental Airlines to charge for food
ATLANTA – Attention coach passengers. Continental Airlines, which used to boast about giving away free hamburgers and barbecue while rivals passed out tiny bags of pretzels, is changing its tune on food.

Continental plans to launch a food-for-sale program that mirrors what other carriers are already doing.
A spokesman said Monday that … Read more »».

JetBlue adds 2 more flights to Los Angeles-LAX from JFK, doubling daily flights to the airport

JetBlue adds 2 more flights to LAX from JFK

NEW YORK – JetBlue said Monday it is adding two daily flights to Los Angeles International Airport from New York’s John F. Kennedy International this summer, doubling its flights to the city.
The new flights will begin on July 1. Along with its LAX service, JetBlue offers the …. Source  : JetBlue adds 2 more flights to Los Angeles-LAX from JFK, doubling daily flights to the airport.

Driving the Americas on a trip around the world: 4 months, 13,000 miles, NY to Buenos Aires

A 13,000-mile drive south: NYC to Argentina

CHACABUCO, Argentina – It was just like driving to work, except that I kept on going: From New York to Argentina, through 12 countries, for four months and more than 13,000 miles.
It’s the first leg of my overland trip around the world, an expedition that I consider the last …. Original source  : Driving the Americas on a trip around the world: 4 months, 13,000 miles, NY to Buenos Aires.

Full-body scanner debuts at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport

Body scanner debuts at O’Hare
CHICAGO – The first and only full body scanner at the nation’s second largest airport is now open for business.

Aviation officials at O’Hare International Airport showed off the technology to reporters Monday before starting to send passengers through the machine.
The scanner looks like two blue telephone booths standing side-by-side.
Federal transportation authorities …. Source  : Full-body scanner debuts at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.

Funeral band, mixing Chinese and American influences, keeps Chinatown tradition alive

Funeral brass band keep Chinatown tradition alive

SAN FRANCISCO – Traffic along the teeming streets of Chinatown came to a standstill: death was parading by, heralded by the clear, sharp notes of a brass band. Women looked up from their grocery shopping; tourists pulled out their cameras.
In San Francisco, the traditions of Chinese-American funeral processions, with [..] Read the original article: here.

Nudity still shocks! NYC exhibit with naked performers in narrow doorway causes discomfort

Art in the flesh causes discomfort at NYC museum

NEW YORK – A new exhibit at The Museum of Modern Art is causing discomfort among some visitors by bringing them close to nude performers – some might say too close.
Two nude performers stand inches apart in a narrow doorway of the exhibit of work by Yugoslavian-born …. Source  : Nudity still shocks! NYC exhibit with naked performers in narrow doorway causes discomfort.

Southwest Air launches 72-hour sale on flights into and out of Philadelphia

Southwest Airlines launches 72-hour Philly sale

DALLAS – Southwest Airlines on Tuesday launched a 72-hour fare sale for flights to and from Philadelphia, a step in its plan to grab customers from major Philly competitor US Airways.
The airline said the fares are available for select markets nationwide, including Raleigh/Durham, N.C., starting at $30 each way, Chicago …. Read the original article  : Southwest Air launches 72-hour sale on flights into and out of Philadelphia.

JetBlue adds 2nd daily nonstop flight to Kingston, Jamaica as part of Caribbean expansion plan

JetBlue adds 2nd daily flight to Kingston, Jamaica

NEW YORK – JetBlue Airways said Tuesday it has added a second daily nonstop flight to Kingston, Jamaica from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport starting June 17.
The airline will now run two nonstop flights from JFK to Kingston, two nonstops from JFK to Montego Bay, one …. Read the original article  : here.

London’s Jewish Museum reopens after major facelift, telling story of pride and prejudice

London Jewish Museum reopens after major facelift

LONDON – A museum tracing the history of Britain’s 300,000-strong Jewish community is reopening after a 10 million pound ($15 million) expansion.
The Jewish Museum calls itself the only such gallery in London dedicated to a minority group. It includes a large collection of Jewish ceremonial art as well as … Read more >>>.

Kilts, green body paint decorate NYC as marchers worldwide parade in honor of St. Patrick

Nation, world go green for St. Patrick’s Day
NEW YORK – All the world from the Sydney Opera House to the Empire State Building turned Irish, or at least Irish for the day, as revelers marked St. Patrick’s Day with bagpipes, dancing, emerald lights and green body paint in a flurry of celebration.
New Yorkers …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kilts, green body paint decorate NYC as marchers worldwide parade in honor of St. Patrick.

Crowds gather in Savannah for annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, festivities

Savannah marks St. Patrick’s Day
SAVANNAH, Ga. – Crowds gathered along the parade route Wednesday morning as Savannah prepared for its 186th annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

The city’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities attract hundreds of thousands of people, the biggest tourist event of the year in the city of about 150,000.
The celebration was started in 1824 …. Source article  : Crowds gather in Savannah for annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, festivities.

Virgin America apologizes for grounding passengers in NY-bound plane for 4?? hours

Virgin America apologizes over grounded plane

LOS ANGELES – Virgin America has offered refunds to “Dancing With the Stars” judge Carrie Ann Inaba and other passengers who were stranded for hours on a grounded plane bound for New York from Los Angeles.
Virgin America CEO David Cush sent an apology letter Tuesday to each passenger, promised refunds …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Smithsonian’s Natural History museum opens $21 million permanent exhibit on human evolution

Smithsonian opens $21M human evolution hall

WASHINGTON – The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History is opening a new permanent exhibit exploring human evolution over 6 million years.
The nearly $21 million Hall of Human Origins opens Wednesday. It will include more than 285 fossils and artifacts, including the only Neanderthal skeleton in the United States.
Curator Rick …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Smithsonian’s Natural History museum opens $21 million permanent exhibit on human evolution.

Green globe: 70 million Irish at home, abroad cheer St. Patrick’s Day from Sydney to San Fran

Irish at home, worldwide cheer St. Patrick’s Day
DUBLIN – Much of the world is turning green Wednesday for St. Patrick’s Day, the annual celebration of all hues of Irishness.
Half a million people were forecast to line the 3-kilometer (2-mile) route of the flagship … Read more >>>.

Ecuador: 16 Canadians rescued from grounded yacht in Galapagos Islands

Canadians rescued from grounded yacht in Galapagos

QUITO, Ecuador – Sixteen Canadian tourists and eight Ecuadorean crew members were rescued from a yacht that ran aground in the Galapagos Islands, officials said Thursday.
No injuries were reported in the Wednesday evening rescue by navy and national park vessels, which the 140-foot yacht’s operator described as “safe and … Read more >>.

Obama postpones Asia trip, will stay in Washington for final health care vote

Obama postpones Asia trip to focus on health care
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has postponed his trip to Asia until June so he can stay in Washington for a possible Sunday vote on his health care overhaul plan.
White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said Thursday the president is disappointed and regrets having …. Read the original article  : here.

Maharaja Express Chugs Out!

AHMEDABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Union Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced several long distance superfast trains including her brainchild Duranto express, but her latest offering Maharaja Express is meant for, well, literally the Kings and emperors! It is going to begin its maiden run today and the minster will flag off the super luxury … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maharaja Express Chugs Out!.

Ancient Greek artifacts go on display in Rome after being returned by the Met

Rome to display ancient Greek silverware
ROME – A collection of ancient Greek silverware dating to the third century B.C. is going on display in Rome after being returned by the Metropolitan Museum in New York, officials said Friday.

The 16 pieces of silverware with gold detail were returned as part of Italy’s aggressive campaign against illegal … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Ancient Greek artifacts go on display in Rome after being returned by the Met.

National Park Service says DC’s cherry blossoms will likely bloom earlier than expected

Cherry blossoms to bloom early in DC
WASHINGTON – Warm weather this past weekend is going to bring Washington’s famous cherry blossoms a few days early.

The National Park Service revised its prediction for blooming dates Monday. Chief horticulturist Robert DeFeo is now predicting the peak blooming will be April 1 to April 4. Earlier he predicted …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : National Park Service says DC’s cherry blossoms will likely bloom earlier than expected.

University of Iowa Museum of Art to open exhibit on hip-hop’s early years

University of Iowa hosts hip hop exhibit
IOWA CITY, Iowa – An exhibit chronicling moments in hip-hop’s early years will soon go on display.

The University of Iowa Museum of Art is hosting an exhibit called “Two Turntables and a Microphone: Hip-Hop Contexts featuring Harry Allen’s ‘Part of the Permanent Record: Photos from the Previous Century.’”
It opens …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

British Airways and Unite no closer to resolving dispute as strike enters third day

British Airways strike enters 3rd and busiest day

LONDON – British Airways and the union representing its cabin crew were no closer to resolving a dispute over pay and conditions Monday as a strike that has grounded thousands of flights entered its third – and busiest – day.
Operations at the airline were put under more strain … Original article on : British Airways and Unite no closer to resolving dispute as strike enters third day.

Lufthansa pilots threaten 4-day strike in mid-April as talks with airline falter

Lufthansa pilots threaten new 4-day strike

BERLIN – Pilots at Deutsche Lufthansa AG are threatening to stage a new four-day strike in mid-April after their union and the airline failed to resolve a dispute over pay and job security.
The Cockpit union said Monday that it had called a walkout at all German locations from April 13-16.
The …. Read the original article  : Lufthansa pilots threaten 4-day strike in mid-April as talks with airline falter.

No surprises: How to make sure your vacation rental doesn’t disappoint

Tips to ensure vacation rentals don’t disappoint

Here are a few tips from the Better Business Bureau, travel experts and seasoned renters to make sure you don’t get burned when you rent a home for your vacation.
-Get a written agreement spelling out terms and conditions. Never wire money or write a personal check. Plastic is the …. Original article  : No surprises: How to make sure your vacation rental doesn’t disappoint.

Out with the cherubs, in with abstract art: Louvre ceiling gets new ceiling by Cy Twombly

US artist Cy Twombly creates ceiling for Louvre

PARIS – The Louvre’s ceilings already abound with decorative paintings: There are plenty of frolicking maidens, epic battles and racing chariots, not to mention cherubs holding cornucopias.
American contemporary artist Cy Twombly had something different in mind – something simple.
Twombly, the first artist given the honor of decorating a … Original article on : Out with the cherubs, in with abstract art: Louvre ceiling gets new ceiling by Cy Twombly.

Huge Anglo-Saxon treasure hoard found in British farmer’s field to be kept in local museums

Anglo-Saxon treasure to remain in local UK museums

LONDON – A fundraising campaign to keep a huge collection of Anglo-Saxon gold in the area where it was unearthed has raised enough money for the treasure hoard to be kept in two central England museums.
Government trusts and the public chipped in to meet the 3.3 million pound … Original source on Gaea Times at : Huge Anglo-Saxon treasure hoard found in British farmer’s field to be kept in local museums.

TV show following 5 flight attendants at work, play, vows to bring ’sexy back’ to flying

Reality show vows to bring ’sexy back’ to flying

MIAMI – These flight attendants are bringing sexy back.
“Fly Girls,” a CW reality show debuting 9 p.m. EDT Wednesday, follows the lives of five Virgin America flight attendants as they jet around the country.
The eight half-hour episodes will feature the attendants sharing a home in Los Angeles, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : TV show following 5 flight attendants at work, play, vows to bring ’sexy back’ to flying.

Latest round of quick airfare sales with limited dates, midweek travel, ends this week

Discount airlines start new round of short sales

DALLAS – Leading discount airlines have launched a new round of airfare sales for summer, but travelers may have to act fast and be flexible on dates to grab the best deals.
Sales from JetBlue Airways, Frontier Airlines and AirTran Airways end this week.
Frontier is touting fares as low …. Source article  : Latest round of quick airfare sales with limited dates, midweek travel, ends this week.

Int’l pilots group backs possible Lufthansa strike

Int’l pilots group backs Lufthansa strike
BRUSSELS – An union representing the world’s airline pilots says it supports Lufthansa’s pilots plan to stage a 4-day strike.

The show of solidarity by the 105,000-member International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations will likely boost the determination of the German Cockpit union to go ahead with the work stoppage.
Lufthansa’s …. Read the original article  : here.

British lawmakers say privacy fears over body scanners are overblown

UK lawmakers: Too much concern over body scanners

LONDON – The privacy fears raised by the deployment of full body scanners at airports are overblown, a committee of British lawmakers said Wednesday, adding that the technology was no more of a threat to passengers’ rights than pat-downs or bag searches.
The government promised to install body scanners … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British lawmakers say privacy fears over body scanners are overblown.

Just in time for Easter: Pasadena museum is home to world’s largest bunny collection

Museum is home to world’s largest bunny collection

PASADENA, Calif. – It started 18 years ago with an endearment and a plush bunny.
Today, Steve Lubanski and Candace Frazee live in The Bunny Museum, where they have the world’s largest rabbit collection with more than 26,000 items. Guinness World Records dubbed them the largest in 1999 when …. Source article  : Just in time for Easter: Pasadena museum is home to world’s largest bunny collection.

US Airways resumes service between Charlotte, NC, and Baton Rouge after 7 years

US Airways resumes Charlotte-Baton Rouge service

NEW YORK – US Airways said Wednesday it is bringing back nonstop service between its hub in Charlotte, N.C., and Baton Rouge, La., after a seven-year hiatus.
It will offer three daily flights in each direction, starting June 24, operated by US Airway’s regional partner, PSA Airlines.
Baton Rouge is the second … Original article on : US Airways resumes service between Charlotte, NC, and Baton Rouge after 7 years.

British lawmakers say privacy fears over body scanners are overblown

UK lawmakers: Too much concern over body scanners

LONDON – The privacy fears raised by the deployment of full body scanners at airports are overblown, a committee of British lawmakers said Wednesday, adding that the technology was no more of a threat to passengers’ rights than pat-downs or bag searches.
The government promised to install body scanners …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Out with the cherubs, in with abstract art: Louvre ceiling gets new ceiling by Cy Twombly

US artist Cy Twombly creates ceiling for Louvre

PARIS – The Louvre’s ceilings already abound with decorative paintings: There are plenty of frolicking maidens, epic battles and racing chariots, not to mention cherubs holding cornucopias.
American contemporary artist Cy Twombly had something different in mind – something simple.
Twombly, the first artist given the honor of decorating a …. Original article  : Out with the cherubs, in with abstract art: Louvre ceiling gets new ceiling by Cy Twombly.

Huge Anglo-Saxon treasure hoard found in British farmer’s field to be kept in local museums

Anglo-Saxon treasure to remain in local UK museums

LONDON – A fundraising campaign to keep a huge collection of Anglo-Saxon gold in the area where it was unearthed has raised enough money for the treasure hoard to be kept in two central England museums.
Government trusts and the public chipped in to meet the 3.3 million pound …. Source article  : Huge Anglo-Saxon treasure hoard found in British farmer’s field to be kept in local museums.

TV show following 5 flight attendants at work, play, vows to bring ’sexy back’ to flying

Reality show vows to bring ’sexy back’ to flying

MIAMI – These flight attendants are bringing sexy back.
“Fly Girls,” a CW reality show debuting 9 p.m. EDT Wednesday, follows the lives of five Virgin America flight attendants as they jet around the country.
The eight half-hour episodes will feature the attendants sharing a home in Los Angeles, …. Read the original article  : TV show following 5 flight attendants at work, play, vows to bring ’sexy back’ to flying.

Latest round of quick airfare sales with limited dates, midweek travel, ends this week

Discount airlines start new round of short sales

DALLAS – Leading discount airlines have launched a new round of airfare sales for summer, but travelers may have to act fast and be flexible on dates to grab the best deals.
Sales from JetBlue Airways, Frontier Airlines and AirTran Airways end this week.
Frontier is touting fares as low … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Latest round of quick airfare sales with limited dates, midweek travel, ends this week.

Int’l pilots group backs possible Lufthansa strike

Int’l pilots group backs Lufthansa strike
BRUSSELS – An union representing the world’s airline pilots says it supports Lufthansa’s pilots plan to stage a 4-day strike.

The show of solidarity by the 105,000-member International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations will likely boost the determination of the German Cockpit union to go ahead with the work stoppage.
Lufthansa’s … Read more »».

National Park Service says DC’s cherry blossoms will likely bloom earlier than expected

Cherry blossoms to bloom early in DC
WASHINGTON – Warm weather this past weekend is going to bring Washington’s famous cherry blossoms a few days early.

The National Park Service revised its prediction for blooming dates Monday. Chief horticulturist Robert DeFeo is now predicting the peak blooming will be April 1 to April 4. Earlier he predicted … Read this article on Gaea Times at : National Park Service says DC’s cherry blossoms will likely bloom earlier than expected.

University of Iowa Museum of Art to open exhibit on hip-hop’s early years

University of Iowa hosts hip hop exhibit
IOWA CITY, Iowa – An exhibit chronicling moments in hip-hop’s early years will soon go on display.

The University of Iowa Museum of Art is hosting an exhibit called “Two Turntables and a Microphone: Hip-Hop Contexts featuring Harry Allen’s ‘Part of the Permanent Record: Photos from the Previous Century.’”
It opens … Read more >>.

British Airways and Unite no closer to resolving dispute as strike enters third day

British Airways strike enters 3rd and busiest day

LONDON – British Airways and the union representing its cabin crew were no closer to resolving a dispute over pay and conditions Monday as a strike that has grounded thousands of flights entered its third – and busiest – day.
Operations at the airline were put under more strain … Read more : British Airways and Unite no closer to resolving dispute as strike enters third day.

Lufthansa pilots threaten 4-day strike in mid-April as talks with airline falter

Lufthansa pilots threaten new 4-day strike

BERLIN – Pilots at Deutsche Lufthansa AG are threatening to stage a new four-day strike in mid-April after their union and the airline failed to resolve a dispute over pay and job security.
The Cockpit union said Monday that it had called a walkout at all German locations from April 13-16.
The …. Source article  : Lufthansa pilots threaten 4-day strike in mid-April as talks with airline falter.

No surprises: How to make sure your vacation rental doesn’t disappoint

Tips to ensure vacation rentals don’t disappoint

Here are a few tips from the Better Business Bureau, travel experts and seasoned renters to make sure you don’t get burned when you rent a home for your vacation.
-Get a written agreement spelling out terms and conditions. Never wire money or write a personal check. Plastic is the …. Original source  : No surprises: How to make sure your vacation rental doesn’t disappoint.

Maharaja Express Chugs Out!

AHMEDABAD, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Union Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced several long distance superfast trains including her brainchild Duranto express, but her latest offering Maharaja Express is meant for, well, literally the Kings and emperors! It is going to begin its maiden run today and the minster will flag off the super luxury …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ancient Greek artifacts go on display in Rome after being returned by the Met

Rome to display ancient Greek silverware
ROME – A collection of ancient Greek silverware dating to the third century B.C. is going on display in Rome after being returned by the Metropolitan Museum in New York, officials said Friday.

The 16 pieces of silverware with gold detail were returned as part of Italy’s aggressive campaign against illegal … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ancient Greek artifacts go on display in Rome after being returned by the Met.

Ecuador: 16 Canadians rescued from grounded yacht in Galapagos Islands

Canadians rescued from grounded yacht in Galapagos

QUITO, Ecuador – Sixteen Canadian tourists and eight Ecuadorean crew members were rescued from a yacht that ran aground in the Galapagos Islands, officials said Thursday.
No injuries were reported in the Wednesday evening rescue by navy and national park vessels, which the 140-foot yacht’s operator described as “safe and … Read : Ecuador: 16 Canadians rescued from grounded yacht in Galapagos Islands.

Obama postpones Asia trip, will stay in Washington for final health care vote

Obama postpones Asia trip to focus on health care
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has postponed his trip to Asia until June so he can stay in Washington for a possible Sunday vote on his health care overhaul plan.
White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said Thursday the president is disappointed and regrets having …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kilts, green body paint decorate NYC as marchers worldwide parade in honor of St. Patrick

Nation, world go green for St. Patrick’s Day
NEW YORK – All the world from the Sydney Opera House to the Empire State Building turned Irish, or at least Irish for the day, as revelers marked St. Patrick’s Day with bagpipes, dancing, emerald lights and green body paint in a flurry of celebration.
New Yorkers …. Source  : Kilts, green body paint decorate NYC as marchers worldwide parade in honor of St. Patrick.

Crowds gather in Savannah for annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, festivities

Savannah marks St. Patrick’s Day
SAVANNAH, Ga. – Crowds gathered along the parade route Wednesday morning as Savannah prepared for its 186th annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration.

The city’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities attract hundreds of thousands of people, the biggest tourist event of the year in the city of about 150,000.
The celebration was started in 1824 … Read more : Crowds gather in Savannah for annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, festivities.

Virgin America apologizes for grounding passengers in NY-bound plane for 4?? hours

Virgin America apologizes over grounded plane

LOS ANGELES – Virgin America has offered refunds to “Dancing With the Stars” judge Carrie Ann Inaba and other passengers who were stranded for hours on a grounded plane bound for New York from Los Angeles.
Virgin America CEO David Cush sent an apology letter Tuesday to each passenger, promised refunds … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Virgin America apologizes for grounding passengers in NY-bound plane for 4?? hours.

Forget the crowds: Demand grows for quiet views of DC’s cherry blossoms from the water

Visitors seek river views of DC’s cherry blossoms

ABOARD THE HARBOUR BELLE – Visitors who want to see Washington’s cherry blossom trees can now get their views from a peaceful cruise on the Potomac River, away from the hordes of land-based tourists.
While many of the 1 million-plus visitors over the next two weeks will crowd along …. Source article  : Forget the crowds: Demand grows for quiet views of DC’s cherry blossoms from the water.

Just in time for Easter: Pasadena museum is home to world’s largest bunny collection

Museum is home to world’s largest bunny collection

PASADENA, Calif. – It started 18 years ago with an endearment and a plush bunny.
Today, Steve Lubanski and Candace Frazee live in The Bunny Museum, where they have the world’s largest rabbit collection with more than 26,000 items. Guinness World Records dubbed them the largest in 1999 when … Original source on Gaea Times at : Just in time for Easter: Pasadena museum is home to world’s largest bunny collection.

US Airways resumes service between Charlotte, NC, and Baton Rouge after 7 years

US Airways resumes Charlotte-Baton Rouge service

NEW YORK – US Airways said Wednesday it is bringing back nonstop service between its hub in Charlotte, N.C., and Baton Rouge, La., after a seven-year hiatus.
It will offer three daily flights in each direction, starting June 24, operated by US Airway’s regional partner, PSA Airlines.
Baton Rouge is the second …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Japanese architect duo Sejima, Nishizawa win Pritzker Prize for open, airy structures

Japanese architects Sejima, Nishizawa win Pritzker

LOS ANGELES – Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, a duo of Japanese architects praised for using everyday building materials to create ethereal structures that shelter flowing, dreamlike spaces, have won the 2010 Pritzker Architecture Prize, the prize’s jury announced Sunday.
Sejima, 54, and Nishizawa, 44, join Frank Gehry, Rem Koolhaas and … Original article on : Japanese architect duo Sejima, Nishizawa win Pritzker Prize for open, airy structures.

Mall capital of Asia: When in the Philippines, never mind the beaches _ go shopping

Mall capital of Asia: When in Manila, go shopping

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines is known for many things: beautiful beaches, overseas workers and the multitude of shoes owned by former first lady Imelda Marcos.
But less known to the West is that the archipelago is a shoppers’ dream, the home of three of the world’s 10 … Read more >>.

2 stuck aboard Miami fair ride rescued after nearly an hour

2 rescued after hour on stalled Miami fair ride

MIAMI – One of two people stranded high in the air aboard a stalled fair ride for nearly an hour in South Florida on Tuesday said she’d be willing to give the Space Roller another try.
Both riders were rescued and no one was reported injured at the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

2 stuck aboard Miami fair ride; rescue workers trying to figure out how to get them down

2 stranded in the air on stalled Miami fair ride

MIAMI – Two people are stranded high in the air aboard a stalled fair ride in Miami, and rescue officials are trying to get them down.
A fire department spokeswoman says a call came in at 1:54 p.m. Tuesday to report the stalled ride at the Miami-Dade …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2 stuck aboard Miami fair ride; rescue workers trying to figure out how to get them down.

Disney Cruise Lines adding interactive art, floors to latest ship

Disney adding interactivity to latest ship

GLENDALE, Calif. – The walls and floors will come alive on Disney’s latest cruise ship.
Over 20 pieces of moving artwork will line the decks of the Dream, which launches early next year, while two interactive floors will keep kids on their feet in the ship’s youth areas.
The new interactive experiences … Read more : Disney Cruise Lines adding interactive art, floors to latest ship.

Air travelers’ strategies for dealing with lost luggage: Know the rules, be persistent

Strategies for dealing with lost bags
NEW YORK – If an airline loses your luggage, your first stop should be the baggage claim office to report it missing. Your next move might be to buy a change of clothes.

But while airlines are required to reimburse passengers for clothing and toiletries in the event of a lost …. Source  : Air travelers’ strategies for dealing with lost luggage: Know the rules, be persistent.