Space was the last frontier for man, now its the last frontier for tourism. 

Galactic Suite is a space hotel that claims to be open for business by 2012.

For only 4 million dollars you will be whisked away to a tropical island for a touristic version of astronaut training that lasts a few weeks.  

The experience culminates in a 3 night stay in the Galactic Suites which orbit the earth every 80 minutes.

The company is so confident on their launch date that they are already accepting reservations…..I wonder if orbitz.com will be offering any package deals?

Go-Today.com is offering some stellar deals to Prague.  Starting at $749 you get int’l flights+6 nights hotel+breakfast daily+hotel taxes.

Check it here

If you are spending an extended period of time abroad, Ikea can be the cure for a case of homesickness.

Now this depends on two things: (A) you must love to shop at Ikea back at home (B) you are in an place where a big blue Ikea is lingering in the suburbs.

I know you think I am insane….but give me a chance to explain.

All Ikea’s share a very similar, if not identical layout.  They all serve the same Swedish meatballs and most of the products are the same. 

When living abroad once I was shopping at Ikea at a time when I was missing home and my friends.  I found myself feeling transported to my local Burbank Ikea while standing inline with a tray of swedish meatballs.  

My homesickness seamed to melt away as I walked through all the mini-faux apartments….and I found myself thinking I was back home.   The time warp was so effective I found myself a bit dazed and confused once I walked out into the parking lot and instead of seas of huge SUVs I saw neat rows on peugots and citroens.

Yes I know Ikea is Swedish and not American……but it still felt like home nonetheless.

P.S. This post is dedicated to my friend Jack who hung up his blue and yellow polo today and ended his illustrious career at Ikea

Many years ago when I backpacked Europe, I had the pleasure of roaming Munich with Mike’s Bike Tour.

While cruising the internet I was happy to discover they are still around!  

If you are visiting Munich you must take their tour, it is hands down the best way to see the highlights of the city in one afternoon.  The tour is on paved roads/path and is not strenuous, so do not fear my little couch potatoes.

The tour is inexpesive, costing 24€ (including the bike) and 18€ for backpackers (must be staying at one of the hostels on their list).

No reservations are required, just show up at the meeting spot at the designated time (times vary so see their website).  

Learn more at mikesbiketours.com

Santa Barbara, California, is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the west coast.  

Popularity comes at a price, and budget travelers often get left out in the cold.

If you want to visit Santa Barbara but don’t have the $500 a night to stay in one of the many central and luxurious hotels/inn…..I have a solution and its the Hotel Virigina, a Holiday Inn Express.

The Hotel Virginia was originally built in 1916 and is a historical landmark.  The recent renovations have left the rooms looking like mini-four seasons digs.  

Not only are the rooms great, the location can’t be beat.  The hotel is in the center of downtown and only a few blocks from the beach…..it is so central that you can park your car for the weekend and see everything by foot.

Rooms start at $159 and although you might be able to find more budget accommodations in Santa Barbara, you would be hard pressed to find a place so central and with so much charm.

Visit them at HotelVirginia.com