Thursday, August 9, 2007

For all its swank and glamour, a formal afternoon tea still has a place in British society. Of course, you'll see Russians surrounded by shopping bags and bodyguards, Japanese photographing the teapot, and Americans buried in guidebooks. But you'll hear British accents, too, as they celebrate, or seduce, or do a deal. Here are the best spots. read more

• What 99 Pounds Buys in London
• Europe, Day 4: London to Battle
• Pinkies In! Teatime Etiquette

We recently hopped aboard the new budget airline Virgin America to see what it's like. We found clever mood lighting, comfy leather seats, and a minibar stocked with water and soft drinks for coach-class passengers. read post

• It's Time to Replace the Welcome Mat
  Non-Americans are finding it difficult to visit our country, says Erik Torkells…
• New Rental Car Company for Budget Travelers
  Starting in September, travelers will have a cheaper way to rent cars in Orlando…

At this weekend's Tug Fest, it's Iowa versus Illinois, with male and female teams from each state heaving on ropes in three-minute contests. Keeping things lively are local bands, a hometown heroes parade, and a huge show of fireworks shot off from a barge diplomatically situated on the Mississippi River between state lines. read more

• 59 Jaw-Dropping Roadside Attractions
• Check our Fun Stuff section for more good times!

With the two-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina on August 29 and a flurry of hotel and restaurant promotions, it's time to pay tribute—and party—in the Big Easy.
why it's a deal

• Mardi Gras: Still America's Best Party
• Where to Eat, Shop, and Volunteer in New Orleans
• Trip Coach: The Southern U.S.

Barcelona, Zaragoza, and Santiago de Compostela are among the highlights of this six-city tour, with airfare and meals, from $2,049.
why it's a deal

• Eat Like a Local: Barcelona
• Europe, Day 4: Barcelona to Figueres
• Trips That Can Change Your Life: Camino de Santiago

Round-trip airfare, train travel, and six nights split between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, from $999 per person. why it's a deal

• Eat Like a Local: Tel Aviv
• Trips That Can Change Your Life: Israel

Hundreds of readers submitted photo captions, and we've posted the best ones. Vote for your favorite and come back on August 16 to see who wins. read more

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