A new campaign from the state of Illinois called #allinillinois has celebrities sharing messages on YouTube to help people keep their spirits high while they continue partaking in good lockdown practices. Not only are these messages relevant to the Land of Lincoln, but they’re all too relevant for the rest of America (and many countries around the world), especially for those living in major cities with dense populations. But don’t just take my word for it, listen to Jane Lynch, Mandy Patinkin, Andy Richter, Nick Gehlfuss, and Rick Nielsen, and Ike Barinholtz JANE LYNCH Star of Best in Show,…
Author: Keith Langston
Trees. They provide oxygen, shade, and a home for animals. They also filter carbon, purifying our planet’s air. They’re (for the most part) aesthetically pleasing and have actually been scientifically proven to be beneficial to our mental health.But before you run outside to soak up some flora-power, read on to discover the seven coolest tree species from around the world! By Keith David Langston JOSHUA TREE California, USA Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia) are the largest species of yucca on the planet and are sometimes referred to as “Yucca Palms.” The name Joshua Tree is said to come from Mormon…
The Washington Post has revealed that the President has postponed the deadline for travelers needing to get a Real ID. The new ID was going to be required for anyone taking domestic flights, and the original deadline was October 1, 2020. However, with the coronavirus locking down the nation, states aren’t able to produce the ID’s since the background check to get one requires a physical visit to the DMV. For weeks, states and prominent figures in the travel industry have been asking Trump to delay the deadline. As of now, no new date has been given. With the looming…
Many of us will probably be quarantined for at least a few weeks. Luckily, organizations around the world are getting creative to help bring entertainment to you at home. Here are six exciting things you can do to keep yourself entertained, cultured, and healthy during the coronavirus outbreak. CRACKLE Crackle is a totally free online streaming platform similar to Netflix. Crackle has classic hits like Ace Ventura, award-winning films like Monster, sitcoms like Just Shoot Me, and even original series like Snatch. It’s the perfect solution for anyone who doesn’t want to pay for a subscription service, or even…
Sadly, it’s hard to travel right now. Not only has the industry been hit hard, but people around the world have lost out on life-changing trips. Luckily, a few hotels around the world are going beyond the brick and mortar and are offering online experiences for those who want to have a virtual travel adventure. Here are some of the cool things you can do right now from the comfort of your own home. By Keith David Langston HILTON LOS CABOS BEACH & GOLF RESORT Los Cabos, located at the bottom top of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is one…
The US Travel Association has released a report stating that the coronavirus is going to have an $809 billion dollar impact on the travel industry. With the lowered demand for travel that could stretch on for months, millions of jobs could be lost. The report stated that a whopping 15.8 million Americans work in travel-related industries and that about 83% of travel employers are small businesses. The current situation is dire for the employers and employees of these companies. The President of the US Travel Association, Roger Dow, went to the White House on Tuesday to speak with officials of possible…
The new coronavirus has altered reality as we know it. The good news for everyone out there is that the mortality rate of the coronavirus is less than 1%, much lower than original estimates which were based solely on confirmed cases in China alone. The unfortunate news is that the virus has altered everyday life and strained the economy. Restaurants, schools, theaters, and concert venues are closing, travel restrictions are in place, and the economy stands on shaky ground. It’s no surprise that the most vulnerable industry in all of this is the travel industry. As a basic economic rule…
Are you a dog lover? Well, you are not alone! There are millions of people around the world who adore their furry four-leggers. If you have ever wondered what the most popular dog breeds are, we did some research and discovered the most well-loved canines on the planet. Is your favorite on this list? By Keith David Langston SOUTH AFRICA Yorkshire terrier The Yorkshire terrier (sometimes called a “Yorkie”) is the most popular breed in South Africa. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Yorkies are known for having big personalities despite their small size. Yorkies can be feisty,…
Hot air balloons…they’re not just for the Wizard of Oz anymore. In fact, many destinations around the world have launched hot air balloon journeys that are truly unique, adventurous, and will give you marvelous views that allow “ballooners” to see a destination in a whole new way. Confused about where to take your first balloon adventure? Read below for the 6 most epic balloon journeys around the world! By Keith David Langston MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA In recent decades, Melbourne has emerged as a power player on the global stage and has climbed into the top 100 largest cities on the…
With the coronavirus now surpassing 100,000 infections globally, many are starting to panic, especially those with upcoming trips. Luckily, travel consultancy Virtuoso and AAA have both released statements to help travelers navigate the murky waters of traveling during a pandemic. Virtuoso asked thousands of their travel advisors for the most common advice they’re giving their clients during the outbreak, and here are some of the responses: It’s still ok to travel While travel to certain parts of China and Italy probably won’t be in your immediate future, the rest of the world is still open for business. One of…
AAA’s coveted diamond awards aren’t easy to obtain. And for those who do, getting awarded five diamonds is even tougher. In fact, AAA states that out of the 27,000 properties awarded AAA diamonds, only .4% of those achieve five. Here are four hotels that have just earned the top spot in the world of travel and hospitality. by Keith Langston BOSTON HARBOR HOTEL Boston, Massachusetts It’s always great when a hotel can give you views of both a city skyline, as well as a bustling harborfront. The Boston Harbor Hotel delivers not only on the views, but the amenities as…
The gorgeous and historic Bonnet House in Fort Lauderdale turns 100 years old this year! Not many estates in South Florida can claim to be a century old, but the Bonnet House is a true survivor. Through hurricanes, nearby development, and a rapidly changing country, the Bonnet House has withstood the test of time. Now, they’re ready to celebrate and are inviting you to join. The home was turned into a museum and public garden years ago, and now attracts visitors from all across the globe. However, the Bonnet House used to be the summer home of Helen Bonnet and famed…
Cruise operator MSC has teamed up with players in the NFL to launch a new campaign to help save our oceans. The campaign, #SuperCoralPlay, is designed to help inspire people to do more to save our oceans, and in effect, the entire planet. To launch the campaign, MSC teamed up with NFL players to create a music video that helps show what you can do to protect the oceans. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTisSzDZKRE The video stars Larry Fitzgerald of the Arizona Cardinals, Mark Sanchez from the New York Jets, and Jarvis Landry of the Cleveland Browns. Aside from the video, the SuperCoralPlay website…
Not all skylines are made equal. Drab buildings, lackluster landscapes, and pollution can ruin the appeal of large cities. But for some destinations around the world, they’ve got picture-perfect city skylines, beautiful enough to capture the eyes and imagination of people everywhere. By Keith Langston SINGAPORE Clean, sleek, and modern. It’s no surprise that films like Equals have use Singapore when filming scenes based in the future. Standouts in the skyline include the ArtScience Museum, designed to look like a giant lotus; the historic, 5-star Fullerton Hotel; and of course, the three-tower, 2,561 roomed Marina Bay Sands, complete with its own…
The New York Botanical Garden’s famous Orchid Show is now in its 18th year, and this season they’ve invited famed florist Jeff Leatham to design the exhibition, titled Jeff Leatham’s Kaleidoscope. Jeff Leatham works with the Four Seasons George V in Paris, as well as the Four Seasons, Los Angeles at Beverly Hills. His clientele includes celebrities like Oprah, Dolly Parton, Tina Turner, and the Clintons, as well as luxury brands like Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Chanel, and more. He’s considered “The Rockstar of the Floral World” and never fails to impress a crowd. In his exhibit at the Botanical Garden’s…
This Valentine’s Day, South African Airways is helping you give the gift of an exciting adventure to your loved one. The airline just released a new deal on tickets bought before February 19, 2020. Roundtrip flights from JFK and DC to Cape Town start at only $829 USD. Roundtrip flights from JFK to Johannesburg start at only $879 USD. You can make your South Africa journey thrilling, romantic, or both! From a hot air balloon ride over wine country to luxurious safaris and sailing around the Cape of Good Hope, the country offers everything you need for a great vacation. Todd…
EarthX, the worlds largest environmental convention, is gearing up for its 10th anniversary in 2020 with Earthx2020. The event will be held in Fair Park, Dallas and will include a film festival, gala, speakers, charity dinners, and more. Their 2019 event attracted almost 200,000 attendees, including country star LeAnn Rimes. During the 2019 EarthX film festival, many high-profile environmental documentaries were screened, including the SXSW prize-winner The River and the Wall, and Sharkwater: Extinction, the posthumously released sequel to Sharkwater by conservationist Rob Stewart, who tragically passed away during a dive in 2017. EarthX also created the Go NoCo Loco…
According to CNN, “The acting secretary of Homeland Security announced on Wednesday that New York state residents can no longer participate in certain Trusted Traveler Programs, including Global Entry, due to provisions in the state’s new “Green Light Law” supporting undocumented immigrants.” The four programs that New Yorkers are now banned from are: ~ Global Entry – which allows faster entry into the US through airports. ~ NEXUS – Which allows faster travel across the US/Canada border. ~ SENTRI – Another (although hardly used) program for faster entry into the US. ~ FAST – Allows faster transport of commercial goods…
Companies like Away and Calpak are about to receive some stiff competition. Target announced today that it is unveiling its own luggage brand. The collection, called Open Story, will provide high-quality luggage at a cheaper price point. From checked luggage to carry-ons, backpacks, duffels, and more, prices are set to begin at $19.99 USD. Features of the new brand include built-in USB ports, silent rolling wheels, and expandability. The collection comes in crisp, muted pastels and earth tones, allowing the pieces to seem both elegant and casual. One of the main goals of the brand is that Target is looking…
To truly get away from it all, you may want to visit the some most isolated islands in the world. These destinations are fascinating and mysterious, as well as being located far from most of civilization. If you are interested in geography, history, and travel, these islands are a must to discover. By Keith David Langston THE KERGUELEN ISLANDS The Kerguelen islands are made up of the main island, with a few smaller outlying islands nearby. Their climate is quite inhospitable. Located in a murky region geographically, these islands straddle the border where the Indian Ocean ends and the…