More for Less in New York City

September 30, 2007 | Written by Erica Johansson

Brooklyn Bridge by Simone RodaManhattan is probably the world’s most dynamic island in the most exuberant city. If you haven’t seen... [Read more]

Erica Johansson

September 30, 2007 | Written by Erica Johansson

After dance school in Sweden, a challenging Camp Counselor job in Michigan, live-in aupair work in France, childcare taking in Switzerland and waitressing in London, Erica Johansson discovered a new passion - travel writing.... [Read more]

The Painkiller on the British Virgin Islands (video podcast)

September 28, 2007 | Written by Wayfarer Digital

Maryl stops by the British Virgin Islands booth at the Los Angeles Times Adventurers Expo to chat with Clive of BVI Tourism. Sounds like the “Painkiller” cures everything that ails. For more on British Virgin Islands at ITKT. This podcast was produced by Wayfarer Digital for In The Know Traveler.... [Read more]

Exploring Ephesus (video podcast)

September 28, 2007 | Written by Wayfarer Digital

In part three of our travels through Turkey, Jason is at it again offering our loyal viewers some of the most beautiful photography of Ephesus. Of course, it is not a beautiful as going there, but until you do… Ephesus is an entire city of ruins and maybe the most spectacular in the world. Be sure to check out this video podcast of a truly ancient wonder.

For the record, Jason has just gotten back from Colombia... [Read more]

Exploring Cappadoccia (video podcast)

September 28, 2007 | Written by Wayfarer Digital

cappadoccia.jpgIn this weeks installment of Jason Fitzpatrick’s adventures in Turkey, Jason takes on the amazing Cappadoccia. Between the underground cities and narrow winding passages,... [Read more]

Washing Off City Crust

September 28, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

Hutzy Waterfall by Jason Fitzpatrick on In The Know TravelerLike the majority of the human race I live in an urban environment.... [Read more]

A Splash of Istanbul (video Podcast)

September 28, 2007 | Written by Wayfarer Digital

istanbul_itkt.jpgJason Fitzpatrick just returned from several adventures in Turkey. Luckily for us, he shot the whole thing using high-definition and we will be presenting a series of gorgeous video podcasts with us over the next month. Here is the... [Read more]

A Day in Mahabalipuram, India

September 27, 2007 | Written by Mamta Murthy

Ratha in Mahabalipuram by NatarajaMy mother and I traveled to Chennai for a friend’s wedding. The morning following the post-wedding celebrations,... [Read more]

Mamta Murthy

September 27, 2007 | Written by Mamta Murthy

Mamta Murthy is based in Mumbai, India and is passionate about writing

Read a story by Mamta:
A Day in Mahabalipuram, India

Written by Mamta Murthy

Sniffles on a Plane?

September 26, 2007 | Written by Steve Smith & Christine Johnson

Do you get sick, experience headaches or eye and throat irritation when you fly? Many fliers do, and in an unscientific way, I’ve always blamed the airplane’s air ventilation system. A look at popular articles on the subject confirms this suspicion. However, there have been many scientific investigations of cabin air quality conducted by credible organizations, among them the National Academy of Sciences and the Department... [Read more]

The Coolest Travel Gadget Ever Part 2

September 25, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

So now I have actually had the chance to travel with the iPhone, and I have discovered several features that make it great not only for the traveler bit also for the travel writer. The iPhone has a 2.0 mega-pixel camera. Does it compare to my Nikon FM2N with my fast prime lenses and Fuji Velvia film? Not even close, does it compare to your run of the mill consumer digital camera? Sure, as long as you don’t plan on... [Read more]

Banyan Tree’s First City Club in Asia to Launch in Seoul

September 25, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

Singapore, 20 September 2007 —Singapore Main-Board listed Banyan Tree Holdings Limited (”Banyan Tree” or the “Group”), a leading developer, designer and operator of top-tier hotels, resorts, spas and galleries worldwide, today announced that it has signed a management contract for its first Banyan Tree branded city club development in Asia in vibrant and cosmopolitan Seoul, South Korea.

Situated... [Read more]

Bloggin Big Sur

September 24, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

So this is a first for me. I am actually writing a blog in my tent. I am camping in Big Sur this weekend with fellow In The Know Traveler Jesse Siglow and his wife. It’s been a beautiful day, and it just started to rain a little outside. The beauty of Big Sur has inspired writers from Henry Miller to Steinbeck to Kerouac. I am enjoying imagining what they might have written if they were hunting and pecking away on... [Read more]

An Evening At The Hollywood Bowl

September 24, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

Should you ever find yourself in Los Angeles make sure to check out the concert schedule at the Hollywood Bowl. Its a beautiful amphitheater perched in the hills above the busy Hollywood streets. I’m sitting here now as I write this, waiting for the Montreal based band Arcade Fire to go on stage. Even if you aren’t familiar with whoever is playing the bowl is a great experience. African drummers accompanied... [Read more]

More on Santorini

September 23, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

One of the great joys of traveling on a small island is the ability to explore the island. The logistics of getting from one place to another. For example, while driving anywhere in Greece can be a challenge, visitors can drive from Ancient Thera and the black sand beaches of Kamari through the largest city on the island, Fira, to the cliffs of Oia in less than an hour.

So whether by car or bus Santorini is an easy... [Read more]

Dessert Discovery: Santorini

September 23, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

Put fresh ingredients, cutlery, and pans in my hands and expect a disaster. However, I have developed an educated palette over the years. I also know when something is so particularly delicious that I have no choice but to sing off of roof tops to offer well-deserved praises.

After strolling with my wife along the quaint pedestrian walkway of Oia on Santorini just after sunset, a local bakery drew my attention and,... [Read more]

What No One Tells You About Santorini

September 22, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

There is a rugged natural beauty to rocky cliff-side settings. Glistening water viewed from high up on a mountain edge is breathtaking no matter how over-used the word ‘breathtaking’ is. It is all so beautiful and inspiring.

However, if you are a traveler, like myself, that doesn’t have a joy when traveling up the steep side of mountain pass with a Greek taxi driver flying past other motorists on... [Read more]

Pizzaca/Pizzica

September 20, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

Oops, I did it again! No, not the Britney Whatsherface song, just an ITKT oops. I wanted to take a minute to apologize to Italy and fine music lovers everywhere for the recent typo about the folk music called Pizzaca. Fortunately, this error was caught before too much damage was done — and the tar and feathers were brought to our doors.

As always, we... [Read more]

A Few Surprises in Athens

September 20, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

Okay, I am officially surprised. I have been riding the metro, buying the shopping districts, enjoying the pistachios — found on a cart next to the subway staion sold by a toothless woman — and snacked on greek fast food, which can found on every street corner.

Athens is a great city.

In the next few weeks I will start detailing my experiences here and will include some of the best sites and stays... [Read more]

Miraculous Medellin

September 19, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

Medillin Flowers by Jason Fitzpatrick on In The Know TravelerIt’s hard to forget the images of burnt ruined buildings and assassination victims... [Read more]

Simple Pleasures In Foreign Lands

September 19, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

The French have a word for people watchers “Flaneur.” I’ve always liked that word, and definitely consider my self to be one. Its funny to me that one of my favorite things to do when I travel is something I do almost every day here in the Los Angeles. Find a cafe or coffee shop, sit and just take everything in. I’m not denying that a big part of this is my huge caffeine addiction, but truth be... [Read more]

Arrived in Athens

September 19, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

The eagle has landed in Athens, namely me. To be honest my expectations were low — I have heard some very mixed reviews. From my end, I always question why people don’t like a particular place. What is it exactly that bothers them? Is it the food, customs, hotels? In my experience, I rarely hear something that prevents a good time. If I were to guess, I’d say expectations of home don’t live up when... [Read more]

Malaysia Is a Growing Player in North American Tourism

September 18, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

LOS ANGELES – The Honorable Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Minister of Tourism, Malaysia, led a whirlwind Sales Mission tour through the United States and Canada from September 8—14, 2007. The tour started in New York, then continued in Canada’s Toronto and Vancouver, and concluded in Los Angeles last Friday evening.

... [Read more]

What is Happening with ITKT?

September 18, 2007 | Written by Jesse

Hi all,

In case you are wondering what is behind the curtain at ITKT, here is a quick overview of who we are, where we are today, and where we want to go.

History
ITKT was started almost 2 years ago, and in that time we have been working diligently to get more writers on board, adding content ourselves, covering press trips, personal trips, all sorts of travel. Currently, we have over... [Read more]

On the Road to Delphi

September 18, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

It became a game. I would zoom out my camera lens and try to get a good close-up of these odd little churches that sat on the road. When I say “little church,” I mean little churches. They say upon posts and were no more than a few feet high and less than that wide and they were everywhere.

I didn’t get too many good shots and the experience was more of a live video game than I desire to take a... [Read more]

The Woes of Self Check-In

September 17, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

I arrived at the airport three hours early and heavy eyed, which is already a huge inconvenience. As I entered the terminal at LAX, I immediately noticed that something had changed. The long but orderly lines had been replaced with utter tumult and chaos. What was the source of this frenzy? The new “Self Check In” machines. This is only one of the many examples of a troubling trend in this country of replacing... [Read more]

Considerations for Taking a Tour

September 17, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

This is my first tour group. It is a far different experience than I expected. Here are a few musts to consider as I sit here in a small cafe in Olympia Greece. By the way, Pompei, Italy is one of the most indescribable places I have ever been.

Wake up calls - Vacationers are going to be on the groups... [Read more]

Bitten by Pizzica

September 16, 2007 | Written by Kimberli Waack

A Pizzica Musical Gathering on In The Know TravelerPicture yourself working day in and day out beneath a blazing sun in the red fields of Southern Italy... [Read more]

The Next Rome Five

September 13, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

Day three on an Italy adventure started before dawn and a skewed internal time-clock. It continued along a path including classic art and bus rides around the city center.

Here is my next list of five worthy thoughts when considering traveling through Rome.

1. Visitors can ride anywhere throughout Rome on public transportation for €1. This is one of the better... [Read more]

Writing by the Pantheon

September 12, 2007 | Written by Devin Galaudet

I am proud to say I have visited over twenty countries in Europe. Explored it’s many cultures and rich foods from Iceland to Spain and Ireland to Poland.

I am not bragging, not even a little. Actually, I point... [Read more]

Escape to Palace Resorts This Fall & Winter

September 12, 2007 | Written by Jesse

Miami, FL, September 12, 2007—Instead of spending this winter trekking in the snow and cold, why not take that Mexican retreat you’ve been dreaming of and visit the Palace Resorts line of luxury all-inclusive properties? With ten top-of-the-line resorts to choose from, each with its own signature vacation, Palace Resorts is ready to tempt guests with winter specials that can’t be missed.

“We... [Read more]

Continental eMiles Program

September 12, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

I have signed up for the Continental eMailes Program, as I do just about anything I can to maximize my flight miles. This program is fairly simple: you sign up (100 miles) and on a frequency you choose, you are sent marketing messages that equate to flight miles.

Yeah, I know: boring marketing stuff… however, these are fairly painless. The result is that you build up miles... [Read more]

The coolest travel gadget ever

September 12, 2007 | Written by Jason Fitzpatrick

Last Wednesday Apple dropped the price of the iPhone $200 dollars making it $400 and like a fish can’t resist a shiny lure I can’t resist a gadget. Of course the iPhone wasn’t invented as a travel specific gadget, but many of its amazing features can help the traveler. Here are a few of them.

It has a world clock so say for example you needed to phone your friend... [Read more]

Buckingham Hotel Extends Summer Deal with the Central Park Zoo

September 11, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

NEW YORK, NY, Sept. 11, 2007 – Gotham’s historic Buckingham Hotel is bringing its summer family hit into the fall with a special Central Park Zoo package for the whole family to enjoy.   
 
The family package is available for $379 per night which includes a two night stay in one of the famed hotel’s spacious deluxe suites (4 person occupancy), four tickets (two adult,... [Read more]

Hidden Paradise in Chile

September 10, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

The Nomads of the Seas expedition cruise begins its second season offering its passengers the opportunity to travel across new territory and impressive scenery, previously explored and carefully chosen by our crew during off season. These awe-inspiring sights are hidden among the mountains, glaciers, virgin forests, lakes and fjords of the Chilean Patagonia.

In the farthest corner of the world, Nomads of the Seas... [Read more]

Shopping in Sweden

September 10, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

Sweden has set the pace for modern design the world over. High-quality cutlery, china, sports equipment, textiles, handicrafts, furs, crystal, jewelry, silver, fine glassware, pottery, furniture, quality cars and mobile phones.

Bargain hunting – look for the special signs indicating sales. “REA” indicates a sale; “Extrapris”, used along with red price labels, indicates discounts of at least 10%; and “Fynd”... [Read more]

The Symphony of Flowers

September 10, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

Escape this winter and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Cape Floral Kingdom at the foothills of the spectacular Cederberg Mountains on the Western Cape of beautiful South Africa.

After the abundant winter rains, the annual wild flower season is eagerly anticipated, promising extraordinary botanical richness and floral diversity. Experience the magic of the wilderness at this special time of the year, and enrich,... [Read more]

Cruising Bora Bora

September 10, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

Bora Bora, Tahiti - September 6, 2007: Less is more on the two Bora Bora Cruises’ yachts sailing the turquoise waters of French Polynesia. The Tu Moana and Ti’a Moana, two 226-foot Australian-built, French-registered super-yachts, are tantamount to a millionaire’s playthings.

Bora Bora CruisesActually,... [Read more]

Mount Remarkable National Park

September 9, 2007 | Written by Steven Pike

Southern Flinders by Steven Pike on In The Know TravelerIf bush walking or hiking is your thing, then a visit to Mount Remarkable National... [Read more]

Kenya Facts

September 7, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

Location
Kenya is located in the eastern part of the African continent. The Indian Ocean borders the country to the east, and the equator divides the country into almost two equal parts.

Kenya has a total area of about 224,941 square miles, approximately the size of Texas. Kenya is divided into eight provinces that are further subdivided into 69 districts.

Topography and climate... [Read more]

Californians Pack Out Their Poo

September 5, 2007 | Written by Jesse

Here is a funny story about the changing face of hiking in the Sierras… now you are packin’ poo!

-editor

P.S.: Congratulations to Brendan and Marily Nelson for not only climbing Mt. Whitney, but also getting in the New York Times. Cool!

Written by Jesse... [Read more]

Christmas in Copenhagen

September 5, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

1. Every day from 1 - 24 December, Danish children open the windows of their advent calendars to find a small gift: a piece of chocolate or perhaps an inexpensive toy. Whatever it may be, it certainly makes the Christmas countdown a little more bearable!

2. Christmas is celebrated on 24 December in Denmark, with a Christmas dinner for the whole family. Presents are... [Read more]

Camera Talk: Tripod vs. Monopod

September 5, 2007 | Written by Jesse

Tripods are great, but if you have had to lug one around for any length of time, you know what a hassle they can be. There are some pitfalls, however. In many places, you cannot use a tripod at all, as it classifies you as a commercial shooter; some places won’t even let you enter if you are carrying a tripod.

The workaround? A monopod.

There... [Read more]

Croatia in September

September 5, 2007 | Written by ITKT Media Partner

VARAZDIN BAROQUE EVENINGS
September 21-30
This is an international festival of baroque music, taking place in the baroque town of Varazdin and its environs (including nearby castles). Many renowned performers from Croatia and abroad take part in concerts happening daily in different locations. The festival also offers performances of other classical non-baroque... [Read more]

From Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet

September 4, 2007 | Written by Tara Russell

Green. Palms. Dragon fruit trees. Knee-high grass. Foothill mountains. Rice paddy fields. Shrubs that house vibrant flowers. Geckos that scale the walls. Gardens that supply the entire village with food. Pineapples before they’re ripe. Watermelons. Basil leaves that flavor the pho soup. Vegetables that accompany the fresh spring rolls in rice paper. Mint leaves tasted and smelled at every meal. Onions that top each... [Read more]

Tara V. Russell

September 4, 2007 | Written by Tara Russell

Tara V. Russell on In The Know TravelerBorn to roam, I’ve lived around the states and around the world. I love to travel, run, and experience new places... [Read more]

Southwest Air matches Virgin America

September 4, 2007 | Written by Jesse

Southwest Airlines has matched Virgin America’s fare prices, but S.W. is also offering deals for many more destinations than its rival. Book your travels by Sept. 6th for travel Sept. 12-30, 2007 for great deals. Seven day advance purchase required.

Written by Jesse Siglow