The End of Checked-Backage Charges

How has the practice of charging people for checked-baggage by the airline affected your luggage habits? For me its clear -- I went out and bought all new luggage that all fits as carry-on. Remember, you can take one bag for free carry-on size and one back pack or purse or laptop case on the plane. When you travel with kids, each of your kids may take a large carry-on too -- just be prepared to pull those bags yourself. I predict the whole practice of charging for checked bags will eventually die out. Think about it -- first companies one by one start charging and one day they will one by one start announcing the end of checked bag fees as a way to differentiate themselves!

Car Culture

Its true -- America is a country in love with the automobile. No mater what happens to the big three U.S. automakers, Americans will always love their cars and trucks. That's why the entire industry, from car makers, car parts makers, to truck accessories makers, is so important to this country and must survive. Companies come and go but the American love affair with the automobile will never die.

Who Hates Summer Travel?

Here's an observation I've had -- as airlines have cut down on the number of planes and flights to save costs, chances have increased that:

• a) more flights are over crowded
• b) more flights are delayed
• c) more people are frazzled

What exactly are the airlines trying to do to us? -- Make us not want to fly anymore? I mean, seriously, make slying a happier time and people will do it more often.

The Power of the Sun

The Sun can be dangerous and the Sun can be helpful -- its all about moderation. The Sun had long been heralded as the source of life, the improvement of health and even the best acne treatment, but when you get too much you can seriously get injured. Serious sun burn can lead to permanent skin damage and even cancer, so beware! Its all about moderation -- the power of the sun is nothing to play with.

Virgin Going Where?

Virgin is the fancy airlines from Sir Richard Branson that has made a splash in the U.S. Named consistently as a top airline for travelers, Virgin has certainly made its name but what cities does it really serve? Virgin America is the branch which serves the continental U.S. and this website provides all the details. Here are the nine cities:

California

* Los Angeles (Los Angeles International Airport) Focus City
* Orange County (John Wayne Airport)
* San Diego (San Diego International Airport)
* San Francisco (San Francisco International Airport) Hub

Florida

* Fort Lauderdale (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport) Begins 18 November

Massachusetts

* Boston (Logan International Airport)

Nevada

* Las Vegas (McCarran International Airport)

New York

* New York (John F. Kennedy International Airport)

Virginia

* Washington, D.C. area (Washington Dulles International Airport)

Washington

* Seattle (Seattle-Tacoma International Airport)

Truth in Advertising

Ever wonder what standard exist for truth in advertising for television ads? From the latest diet pill that works to the cure for a better night's sleep, there are so many TV commercials about new aids that I'm not sure who to trust. On a related subject, there is a new show coming to TNT called Truth In Advertising. Weird, isn't it? I bet it will be a lot like Madmen on A&E.

TV Culture 2010

What shows are you looking forward to watching in 2010 (or late 2009)? For me its the return of 24 which intrigues me. Also I am looking forward to the new season of Medium. It was canceled from its old network last year but it got picked up on CBS for the new season. What new shows are you looking forward to? TV culture is culture so don't be timid -- let me know!

Speaking of TV...

Did my last post get you excited about TV again? Did you remember a show from last year which you missed over the summer? Well make sure you never miss a show again by upgrading your TV to have a DVR or Slingbox. If you have cable or satellite service, there's a good chance they offer a digital video recorder built in to your tuner. This usually allows you to record 100 hours of TV to watch anytime you want, skipping commercials. What's a Slingbox? Its a device which takes your recorded shows and enables you to watch them from any TV in your house or from any Computer in the world (over the Internet)!

TV Fall Schedule

Here's a part of culture, many Americans love: The TV fall schedule! Its time for a new season start to your favorite TV shows. New seasons might bring new characters, new arching plot lines, and new twists and turns. Which shows are you looking forward to? I am looking forward to 24, Nip/Tuck and Medium!

Fitness Training Around the World

Tired of your old work out routine? Tired of the treadmill and the dumbbell? Well, mix it up a little my looking for fitness ideas from around the world. Instead of Yoga class, try Pilates. Instead of dumbbells, try Kettlebells. Instead of the treadmill, try out a cross-country ski machine. Using diverse workout ideas keep you healthy, keeps you motivated and keeps you enjoying the idea of working out.