I really like maps. I like pointing out when they’re missing something, I like that many are controversial, and I like comparing them with former (and future) maps. Yes, yes, a good map would let you know where “north” is, and contain things such as a legend and a scale. But when your phone is […]
Hong Kong Eliminates Something Else, But is it Enough?
But most of us still have to test to visit? In early February, Hong Kong and China agreed to eliminate arrival quotas and COVID-19 testing for those crossing directly between the two places. Unless the visitor … had been overseas within the prior seven days. Overseas as in Japan, Egypt, Taiwan? Sure, everywhere else. Now, […]
Separate Checks: A Tale of Two Japans
When I was last in Japan a couple of years ago, I went with family to try the Kani Douraku (かに道楽) restaurant chain. Kani Douraku (translated as “crab hobby”) is best known for having most dishes incorporating crab in some way. Also, when you walk in — at least to the one in Kyoto — […]
Language Lunes: Mexican Aviation (and a Hint of Railroads)
The current Mexican administration has seen quite a bit of turbulence (terrible pun intended) in the aviation industry. No matter which side you’re on, these events have already happened: A “national referendum” on a new Mexico City Airport. The project that was cancelled after nearly 70% was completed, the Texcoco Airport, was replaced by the […]
Walking Venice’s Canals
If you’re planning a visit to Venice, Italy in the coming days, and expecting to see this: you might want to rethink your travels. Unfortunately, due to a gravely serious drought in northeastern Italy, many of the famed canals of Venice have seriously low water levels. Some are at the point where I could — […]
Update: ITA Airways Systems Are Back Online as of 24 February
Update: The app and desktop version are back online. Still, relying on passengers to call Italy to get anything done is a terrible back-up plan. Last night, I tried using Italy’s ITA Airways app, to see if that Christmas gift had indeed been honored. Whoops. As of 13:30 Eastern Standard Time, the app is still […]
Understanding the Thai Calendar
A lot of us travel to new places because we want to experience and learn from the unfamiliar. But even if you’ve been all over the world — including in your own backyard — you can still get tripped up by something. It could be a blizzard warning in Los Angeles. A transportation strike in […]
The Wednesday Who of Airport Names: Bert Mooney
We’re back for another edition of the Wednesday Who. This time, we’ll be talking about a lesser-known figure in aviation, though no less important than anyone else. The name? Bert Mooney, founder of Butte Aero Sales. Bert Mooney started flying in 1919 in Los Angeles, California, although he did graduate from Butte Central High School […]
