Photos and video from gbatistini, mortimer?, daniel guffanti and normandie2005.

*Fun Fact: Hot air balloons don’t fly in the rain because balloon heat can cause water to boil atop the balloon, and boiling water destroys the fabric.

*Fun Fact: Hot air balloons were discovered in France in 1783.

A Hot Air Balloon Joke!

An American man, a Russian man, and an African man were all up in a hot-air balloon together. After a few minutes, the Russian man put his hand down through the clouds. “Aaah!” he said. “We’re right over my homeland.” “How can you tell?” asked the American. “I can feel the cold air,” he replied. A few hours later the African man put his hand through the clouds. “Aah we’re right over my homeland,” he said. “How do you know that?” asked the Russian. “I can feel the heat of the desert.” Several more hours later the American put his hand through the clouds. “Aah, we’re right over New York.” The Russian and the African were amazed. “How do you know all of that?!” they exclaimed. The American pulled his hand up and said, “My watch is missing.

Get more Hot Air Info @www.hotairballoons.com

Watson, appearing very calm and collected

Open Championship at Turnberry has begun.  Always located in the British Isles (this year, Scotland) the Open Championship is the oldest and most coveted of the 4 major annual professional golf tournaments.  The winner of the Claret Jug is the man who can percevier through 4 days of the british isles without loosing his cool.  Many winners of the British Open as it is colloquially known, have repeated the feat due to the small number of players who can tame the course.  As Tiger Woods continues looking for his first major victory since his return from injury, the cameras are on Irish native and two time defending champion Padraig Harrington.  He’s won the last two tournaments and took home the PGA in 2008, giving him 3 major titles.  But with Harrington 8 shots back from the lead, and Woods likely to miss the cut, there is a bigger story this weekend in the highlands.

59 year old and 5 time British Open champion Tom Watson is tied for the lead after two days.  Watson shot a 5 under par on Thursday (tied for 2nd) but we did not break the news due to the fact he might not survive through Friday.  Veteren legends past their prime often have one great day before the weekend and before the Cinderella media pressures them into a terrible next round.  But Tom Watson has shot par today and is now tied for the lead and going for his 9th major and 6th British Open.  If he wins he will be tied with legend Ben Hogan and South African Gary Player for 4th all time in Major wins.

In his press conference Thursday Watson said with a jovial delivery:

“..will I be able to handle the pressure?…I don’t know”

He followed up his uncertainty with a grin and this stern comment:

“I feel that I’m playing well enough to win the golf tournament”

Bastille Day Fireworks; Paris

 

 

 

Bastille Day is the French national independence day celebrated on 14 July each year. In France it is officially called Fête Nationale (”National Celebration”), or more commonly, le quatorze juillet (”14 July”). It commemorates the 1790 Fête de la Fédération storming of the Bastille on 14 July; the  storming of the Bastille fortress-prison was seen as a symbol of uprising for the modern nation, and of the reconciliation of all the French inside the constitutional monarchy which preceded the First Republic during the French Revolution.

Festivities are held on the morning of 14 July, on the Champs-Élysées avenue in Paris in front of the President of the Republic.

The parade opens with many cadets from the École Polytechnique, Saint-Cyr, École Navale, and so forth, then other infantry troops, then motorised troops; aviation of the Patrouille de France flies above. In recent times, it has become customary to invite units from France’s allies to the parade; in 2004 during the centenary of the Entente Cordiale, British troops (the band of the Royal Marines, the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, Grenadier Guards and King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery) led the Bastille Day parade in Paris for the first time, with the Red Arrows flying overhead.

The president used to give an interview to members of the press, discussing the situation of the country, recent events and projects for the future. Nicolas Sarkozy, elected president in 2007, has chosen not to give it. The President also holds a garden party at the Palais de l’Elysée.

Article 17 of the Constitution of France gives the President the authority to pardon offenders, and since 1991 the President has pardoned many petty offenders (mainly traffic offences) on 14 July. In 2007, President Sarkozy declined to continue the practice.

This year America’s Lance Armstrong is trying to make a comeback and win an unprecedented 8^th Tour de France.  Armstrong is the all time leader with 7 wins which he won consecutively from 1999 to 2005.  Armstrong is the prototypical hero to millions; surviving from testicular and brain cancer to win one of the most grueling physical competitions multiple times.

During the tour there are so many stops and checkpoints, making your stay in any region will most likely give you a look at the race from the roadside.  Locals come out of their towns to celebrate the event and cheer their countrymen on.  If you’d ever had the urge to participate in a foreign national pastime, this is fairly easy to assimilate into.  Some mainstay hotspots on the tour include Montpellier, Marseille, Monaco and Paris.  Go to the official Tour de France website to keep up with Lance, and check out any of the cities you’d like to visit.

This is the last major international Soccer tournament leading up to the world cup.  Take your family to South Africa for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, or just yourself, if they are unwilling to go.  For the first time ever the largest single sporting event in the world is taking place on the African continent.  Enjoy an Olympic style atmosphere for half the cost by attending the most watched sporting event 30 years running.

The South African government has spent over 2 billion dollars renovating new sporting facilities, public transportation and local historical tours. This is the perfect dream vacation for friends but especially families.  In between enjoying the matches, take your family out for a Safari that the kids have been nagging you about for years.  Now you have an excuse to travel to Africa in a safe environment surrounded by gentle folk from around the globe.

World Cup Stadium

Like the Olympics this opportunity only comes around every four years.  If you wait until the international buzz about the world cup is upon you, you’ll be out of luck to find tickets to the matches.

Don’t get beat to the punch, this is your chance to score tickets for any match you prefer.  The world cup lasts two weeks, so whatever your schedule is, you will find time to be a part of this global party.  3 million tickets will be sold, but not all of them will be available to the public, so booking your flights and hotels now will save you at least 500 dollars.

National Independence Day Parade – Washington D.C.

If you’re into large crowds then viva the July 4th with the masses and head to D.C. for the largest annual 4^th of July parade in the country.  Every year, Washington D.C. fittingly sets off Independence Day with a bang that’s highlighted by a parade of elaborate floats stretching down Constitution Avenue.  With more than 25 bands and 400,000–yes 400,000 spectators, there will be plenty of opportunities to indulge in entertainment.  Plus, this celebration has the all day factor.

Why travel somewhere else for just two hours of fireworks?

After you’ve scoped out the parade explore the sights and museums then head over to the Capitol Building where the National Symphony Orchestra will perform to the tune of the largest televised fireworks exhibition in the country.

Plan to arrive the night before to prep for the crowds and plan to stay for at least two nights to recover from the fun.  Don’t rent a car, the streets will all be closed off and driving in the district is hell anyway.  Take a taxi and book a hotel somewhere close by, like the Hilton Garden Inn on 14^th street; this will give you a mere 5 block walk down to Constitution Avenue.  There is no better reminder of diversity in America, than this 4th of July fiesta. Whether, you like to Fiesta, Partay, or Petit Fete…come to DC, for the ultimate Partay.

1. Boston Harborfest – Boston Massachusetts

20 years ago, Boston Harborfest began as a humble festival with 30 events.  Today, the 7 day celebration has grown to more than 20 concentrated events and is considered “THE” national Independence Day celebration in the country.  The Boston Harborfest showcases the Maritime and Colonial vale of the revolution.  Critics have heralded it as one of the best family celebrations to attend because of its vast array of booths, activities and entertainment.  Events take place in the historic district and on the waterfront but the main events held exclusively on Boston’s City Hall Plaza.  Because of its colonial heritage, the festival trumpets, the austere aura of archaic American culture that has fizzled out over the last couple centuries.  The immersion into colonial Americana is completely outfitted with opulent revolutionary war costumes. Tours  reenact the American revolution regularly.  I guarantee the 4th of July will move up a notch on your top 3 holiday places to celebrate list. Otherwise, send me an email and tell me why YOUR local holiday celebration takes the cake.

1. Summerfest  09’ – Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Welcome to the self proclaimed “World’s Largest Music Festival”.  Summerfest begins the week prior to the 4th and is the culmination of events and concerts that ushers in summer. This cornucopious music-fest is one of the best annual music event on the planet.  If you don’t believe us, you might listen to the Guinness Book of World Records, that has made the same proclamation about Summerfest, the event has comedy acts, shopping vendors and of course, fireworks.  Known as the “Big Gig”, Summerfest takes place in Henry Maier Festival Park and has been an annual tradition since 1968.  Everyone who is a real musician has taken part, including the Grateful Dead, Sting, Prince and Eric Clapton, all whom have graced the main stage at this ultimate celebration.  The 11 day playbill featuring over 700 bands that culminates  in the the ultimate fireworks show on the 4^th of July.  If you’ve been looking for something more than your standard-issue snap, crackle and pop fireworks show, then Summerfest 09′ may just be your calling.

1. Macy’s Firework Celebration – New York, New York

40,000 shells at a rate of 1,200 explosions per minute is a lot of sparkle that is a kaleidoscope you must see to appreciate.  Take a gander at some of the photos and see if you can wrap your head around the cacophony of colors crackling in the summer sky of New York City.  Save this piece of endless summer memory for your scrapbook and experience the ultimate July 4th fireworks bonanza, and try to attend Macy’s Fireworks show and parade on the Hudson River.

This global event is complete with NBC coverage, featuring international performers and the ultimate in fireworks. Besides, it’s New York, and everybody needs a good excuse to get away to the Big Apple. If you are looking for a crowd then New York is the place to be–fireworks or not.  The show sets the Manhattan skyline ablaze as skyscrapers reflect and intensify the explosions overhead and the familiar smell of summer sulfur fills the night sky.

We must warn you about the patriotic themed scores that will trumpet in the background, bringing flashbacks to emotional movie moments, which has brought many to tears. You won’t catch me crying, but, if we run into each other, I will have a box of tissues ready for you.

The best views for this year will be between the 23^rd and 59^th blocks of Manhattan’s west side.  These public spots will fill up quick so get there early to snag a good patch of real estate.

New York City parking guru “Gridlock Sam” says the best viewing area will probably be south of 42nd Street along the pier by the Circle Line. Other prime West Side public viewing spots include:

Dewitt Clinton Park (Access from 11^th Avenue)

Pier 54 (Limited access from 14^th St.)

Pier 84 (Limited Access from 44^th St.)

Needing a more upscale location to enjoy the show?  There are plenty of premier venues  in up for grabs.  Try the Chandelier Room at the new W Hotel in Hoboken (New Jersey).  If you’re feeling really ambitious the 86^th Floor Observatory at the Empire State Building is selling tickets for $125 dollars per person.  And our third pick would have to be the Hudson Terrace located off the west side highway (621 West 42^nd St.) for $125 dollars you can get an all you can eat gourmet buffet and for $75 dollars more you get a private cabana for 15 to watch the show in private (ish) luxury.

Check out some of the top 10 4th of July hot spots!

1. Boston

2. Cape Cod, Marthas Vinyard, Nantucket

3. Chicago

4. Mount Rushmore

5. Philadelphia

6. Queen Mary 2 (docked in Long Beach, CA)

7. San Diego

8. San Juan Island

9. U.S. Virgin Islands

10. Washington D.C.

Yes Pandemonium, Andy Murray is flirting with the possibility of being the first British tennis player to win Wimbledon in over 60 years.  The Scottish born right hander has been climbing the ranks and has birthed new local excitement in his homeland.  One of the four major professional tennis tournaments in the world, Wimbledon Centre Court in London is the only one still played on a grass surface.  This speed and excitement makes it a visual experience that cannot be replicated by other tournaments around the world.  I strongly suggest trying to attend this year’s competition because of the domestic significance.

Although it may be just another year to most tennis fans, if Andy Murray wins, it will be the greatest sports accomplishment for British sporting fans since the taking of the FIFA World Cup in 1966.  This means, if you are there for this event, you will be a part of one of the biggest after parties London has seen in the last 25 years.  Wimbledon still does not use a roof so bring an umbrella.  Tickets for the event can be purchased at the official Wimbledon website.  There are some good hotels on the pub row near the “All England Tennis Club”.  Take the Express by Holiday Inn at Wandsworth-Battersea.  It’s close to all the cliché London landmarks: The River Thames, Buckingham Palace, and the Wimbledon courts.  Don’t miss out on another big celebration, I only got so many up my sleeve.  Safe Travels.

Amen Corner

Amen Corner, Azaleas and all of golf’s greatest scenery will be displayed in all its glory while the best of the best prepare to tee-off for the first of four major championships in Augusta Georgia.  Practice rounds begin Monday April 6th through the 8th in preparation for the four-day Tournament play starting April 9th with the final round ending on Sunday April 12th.  Over 16 million people watch the Masters on television in eager anticipation of who will take home the PGA’s most coveted prize – The Green Jacket.  By doing so, golf’s greatest champions are forever immortalized as Masters Champions (though the prize money isn’t too bad either which topped $7.25 million in 07.)

The green jacket is more than just a fashion statement as well.  The Augusta National golf course is a highly prestigious and private club with only 300 members at any given time and every member of Augusta National receives a green jacket- a sport coat with the club logo on the left breast.  The idea of the green jacket originally came from club co-founder Clifford Roberts, who wanted to be able to distinguish visiting patrons from members.  The winner of each years Masters Champions become an honorary member and thus receives a Green Jacket presented by the previous years winner.  The jacket may only be worn on club grounds with the exception of the current Masters champion who may wear the jacket off grounds for one year- after that the jacket hangs at the club.

If you are one of the few lucky patrons who scored tickets to even just the practice rounds of this years Masters tournament, chances are you’re looking for a place to state and reservations are certainly filling up fast.  Here are a few solid stand by’s near the Augusta National golf course.

The Partridge Inn: Starting Around $129 p/night

For more than a century, The Partridge Inn has served as a tranquil retreat for heads of state, captains of industry, international celebrities, and other luminaries. Established in 1892, this historic, full-service choice among Georgia hotels has undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation — perfectly blending its richly vibrant past with the modern comforts and amenities you’ve come to expect from a luxury property. With 145 distinctive guest rooms, studios, and suites, an award-winning restaurant, and a secluded outdoor pool, we offer the ideal Augusta hotel accommodations for business and leisure travelers. In addition, we’re only minutes from the alluring sights and attractions of downtown. Witness a bold new chapter in the history of “The Grand Hotel of the Classic South,” situated in a peaceful hilltop setting.

More Hotels Near Augusta...

For all of you music lovers the JVC Jazz Festival Tour is coming to a close and their grand finale is going to be hosted at the Legendary Hollywood Bowl on August 17th. If you don’t know much about jazz or you’re just looking for an easy going concert you should definitely check this out. Full of unique sets and and enigmatic performances you wont regret this musical experience.

As we all now Hollywood is a very popular destination and the crowds can get a little rough if your not a fan of seas of people; so I have a short list of popular Hollywood attractions as well as some a little more off the beaten path.

If you want to stick around the Hollywood area definitely check out Hollywood blvd just so you can say you’ve done it and if you’re looking for touristy shopping you will find plenty plus the Kodak Theater, home of the Academy Awards. There is also plenty of photo ops along the walk of fame and costumed Hollywood characters perusing the Boulevard.

If you have some cash burning a hole in your pocket skip Melrose and head over to Beverly Hills and Rodeo drive. The boutiques are great and you can stop at several cafes/restaurants along the way and enjoy a good meal or a coffee concoction with entirely too many adjectives attached.

Venice beach and the boardwalk is also a quick drive from Hollywood but if you are looking for something a little less grass roots head over to Santa Monica and the 3rd street promenade. Its a pleasant walk with ocean air and you can walk out onto the pier and enjoy a date worthy “Carnival and Ferris Wheel” atmosphere (there really is a Ferris wheel)

For a more cultured visit hop over to LACMA Museum of arts or the Getty. I would also highly recommend the Griffith Park Observatory and Planetarium. Griffith Park is home to gorgeous views and nestled back in the trees is the Greek theater which is a pretty amazing outdoor venue.

And now for where to stay and theres a lot, but Im just going to push one because this is getting a little long.

In the heart of Hollywood off of the Sunset strip you have the Standard which gives you the luxury socialite feel and slick atmosphere with comparatively moderate pricing. The Standard’s location is tough to beat too placing you in cab and walking distance to clubs and restaurants plus the Standard turns into a club at night all on its own. Really a cool place for the hipster party crowd that wants to indulge in the Hollywood “scene.”