With 45 islands, 300 bridges, 50 palaces, 200 museums, and white nights in summer, this magical city has an energy that was unleashed 20 years ago and just keeps growing.

We wanted to learn where locals hang out in this fascinating metropolis when they’re not working, so we asked around.

Here we offer up some of their best recommendations on where to eat, play and absorb the richness of Russian culture.

Mihail Torich – Features Editor for Time Out St. Petersburg

The Hermitage is to Russia what The Louvre is to Paris. No visit to St. Petersburg would be complete without a visit to this famous museum, to take in the priceless works of art that date from antiquity to the 20th century. Lesser-known, but almost equally dazzling, is the Russian Museum, which contains a massive collection of Russian sculpture, graphics and paintings spread over five buildings.

The key to getting the most out of either of these museums is to go during off hours to avoid the crowds and noise. Early mornings on weekdays are the best time to have the place to yourself, but remember that the Russian Museum is closed on Tuesdays and the Hermitage is closed Mondays.

And when you’re at the Hermitage, make sure you keep an eye out for the “real” guardians of the art – the cats! Cats have lived on the premises since the reign of Empress Elizabeth Petrovna in 1745, when she commanded that they be brought there to catch mice and guard the treasures. At one time there were about 200, but now they number about 70. They are fed and protected by museum staff, who let them live in the basement during the bitter Russian winters. However, during the spring and summer they can be spotted strolling through the grounds and gardens.

Hermitage: www.hermitagemuseum.org
Russian Museum: www.rusmuseum.ru

Another famous tourist site that never fails to impress even the locals is the fountains of Peterhof (Petrodvorets), which are located in front of Peter the Great’s palace complex just south of St. Petersburg. There are over 64 different fountains of various sizes, shapes and levels of complexity. Considering that they are more than 200 years old and operate without the use of pumps, this is an engineering feat you won’t want to miss. www.saint-petersburg.com

Traveling to Russia? Don’t miss the Off the Brochure Travel Guide to Moscow, Russia.

Though reminders of St. Petersburg’s history are all around town, there are also plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s vibrant contemporary art scene. “Etagi” (“floors” in English) is a luxury loft project/art space/hostel located in an industrial building in the city center. Previously a bakery, the building’s stark interior of concrete pillars, metal corners, drilling machines and heavy equipment was intentionally preserved to give the space an edgy atmosphere, though a few snazzy new design features were added.

The building offers modern art galleries, showrooms for Russian designers, a wine bar and restaurant, a hostel, and performance space where almost every night of the week you can see dance, movies, theater and more. www.loftprojectetagi.ru

The Pushkinskaya 10 art center is similar to Etagi, offering a bohemian mix of art galleries, museums, studios, and shops—all under one roof. Started in 1989 by a bunch of squatters in an abandoned building, Pushkinskaya is now one of the biggest and best-known “underground” art centers. Although it’s not as underground as it used to be after the fall of communism, it’s still worth a visit. The art spaces are only open from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, so time your visit so make sure you don’t miss out. http://en.p-10.ru/

When you get hungry, try Sadko restaurant, known for its traditional Russian cuisine. Located next door to the legendary Mariinsky Theatre, at Sadko you’re able to dine on fine Russian food in a more casual manner than you would at other comparable restaurants.

There are numerous nightclubs in St. Petersburg, almost too many to mention. But a notable one preferred by many fans of the city’s lively music scene is the A2 Club. Founded by Svetlana Surganova, frontwoman of the rock band Surganova i Orkestr, the club occupies the second floor over a wine bar called Assemblage Actuel. In addition to offering live music performances and late-night DJ sets, there is also a jazz concert once a week. A2 is located in the city center, in the “pyat uglov” area (five corners) where Ulitsa Lomonosova and Zagorodny Prospekt intersect. www.a2club.su

Konstantin – St. Petersburg native

To get transported back to Imperial Russia of centuries past, take a tour of the Pushkin and Pavlovsk palaces, just outside the city. The two are former summer residences of the Russian czars. Like Versailles near Paris, you’ll marvel at decadent décor, which includes gilded picture frames, ornate wood carving, priceless vases, crystal and bronze chandeliers, plus amber, malachite, and porcelain fixtures in many of the hundreds of rooms. The parks and gardens are impressive in their own right, with acres of ponds, artificial islands, walkways, promenades and lush landscaping. www.saint-petersburg.com

Russia’s Vladimir Putin was part of our tongue-in-cheek celebration of President’s Day: The Globe’s Hottest Leaders (in Pictures).

Krestovski Island is great place to go and relax when the hustle and bustle of St. Petersburg starts to wear you down. Thought the eastern part of the island is built up, the western side has the Maritime Victory Park, which houses a beach, restaurants, a theme park – and soon a stadium for outdoor concerts and more. You can sunbathe on the beach, ride bikes along the shore, or even fish on the pier – and the restaurants will cook your catch for you! The island is located right in the middle of the Neva River, and is accessible via the Krestrovsky Ostrov metro station. www.saint-petersburg.com

For nightlife, Konstantin recommends Ostrov, a club located in the western part of downtown St. Petersburg. The spinning dance floor (which also moves up and down) will keep you on your toes while you gyrate to the sounds of the latest pulsating Russian pop music. As a bonus, a light mist of water is sprayed from above, which will keep you cool during the summer months. Address: 37 Lieutenant Schmidt emb. Vassilievsky Island.

For a quieter evening, head to Schatior, where you can grab some drinks in a covered courtyard amid beautiful decor. There’s also a garden restaurant, which is very romantic if you happen to be looking for a place to bring your significant other, and the staff speak English. Located downtown, 1/2 a block from the landmark onion-domed Church of the Resurrection.

Great views over much of St. Petersburg can be found at Terassa Restaurant, which sits on the top floor of a shopping complex called the Ginza Project. The menu is European/Asian fusion, and serves really good sushi. Before you eat, spend some time visiting the boutiques of Ginza, which will help you work up an appetite.

By Karen Elowitt for PeterGreenberg.com.

For more information on St. Petersburg, tune into Peter’s radio show.

With her 6-year-old son in tow, Amie O’Shaughnessy can’t imagine going to a resort for a week without one—having a fun place that is just for him is key to giving us the chance to have some adult downtime.

Kids’ programs vary widely and the challenge is not finding resorts that have them, but rather identifying the elements that work for you and your family.

Things to Consider:

Age minimums: There are few drop-off kids’ clubs for children under 3. In addition, many programs require kids to be potty trained regardless of age.

Scheduled Specific Activities versus Half/Full Day Programs: Some properties use the term “kids’ club” to describe structured events and activities that happen sporadically during the week. In this scenario, you choose an activity of interest and then show up at a specific time to participate. This is very different than a half or full-day programs where you can drop your child off for an extended period of time (multiple activities happen during this period).

Get more information on traveling with kids in our Family Travel section.

Fees: Kids’ club fees vary widely and need to be factored into the trip budget. At most all-inclusive properties the kids’ club and activities will be included in the daily rate. Otherwise, anything goes; some programs are free, while others can be from $75 per session.

Activities: There is a wide range of activities that may be offered. Some resorts have a designated “clubhouse” with TVs, video games, a play structure and toys. The good news about this set-up is that kids will see the infrastructure and get excited—this can make dropping kids off a lot easier. The downside is that your child may choose to play a Wii for hours versus spending any time outside and/or engaging in unique and interesting activities.

On the other side of the spectrum, some properties have programs that involve seeing local sights and include driving. A friend of mine had an experience at a property where they took the kids offsite without notifying the parents. Not OK, obviously. Make sure you ask about the specific plan and program.

At beach and/or swimming focused properties, a visit to the pool may be part of the fun. Programs that take kids swimming should have a high caregiver-to-child ratio and use life jackets for younger children. We’ve opted out of a few kids clubs in the past when we were not comfortable with the swimming set-up.

Exceptional Programs:

Many of Ciao Bambino’s recommended resorts offer amazing kids’ activities. There are a number of properties offering exceptional programs this season.

The Breakers, Palm Beach, Florida

The Breakers has an unbelievable array of kids-focused amenities and activities for every age group—a toddler’s playroom and craft area, a children’s movie room, a brand new family pool area, an arcade and game room, and a structured kids’ camp called Coconut Crew for ages 3-12 ($65-125 per session, although the club is free Monday through Thursday during the summer months).

In addition, The Breakers offers monitored free play for kids from ages 5-7 ($20 per hour) and a Junior Golf Academy. What differentiates their program is the sheer number of options available that are both structured and unstructured, not to mention the location on a fantastic, expansive beach. They also offer activities for the whole family including a Family Night Out themed party and Game Day, where children compete with parents in a featured game.

Get more information on great activities with our Ask the Locals Travel Guide: Palm Beach, Florida.

I struggle with properties that are “too” kid-friendly, meaning it’s all about the kids with nowhere for the parents to relax—not so here, the top-notch spa, pool, golf, and dining opportunities take care of that.

Current special offer: Book a four-night stay in an oceanfront room Sunday through Thursday and receive daily breakfast, free kids meals and camp for kids under 12, spa and fitness admission, unlimited golf, and free Wi-Fi and local calls.

Find more travel deals and special offers in our Travel Deals section.

Kona Village, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kona Village is one of those properties that families visit year-after-year.  It is all-inclusive—meaning you pay a nightly rate that includes lodging, meals, and most activities. The kids’ program here is for ages 5-12 and the beauty is the flexibility—kids can come and go throughout the day and parents can join in the activities along with their children. This is a very different set-up than many other programs that require reservations with stringent start and end times. We’re all so scheduled at home that it’s nice to have the freedom to enjoy programs without structure when on vacation.

For more Hawaii travel information, check out Off the Brochure Travel Guide: Honolulu, Hawaii as well as Ask the Locals: Oahu, Hawaii.

Activities at Kona Village have a local element. Favorites include crab catching, seashell hunting, and Hawaiian crafts. They also offer special activities for teens from ages 13-17 including Laulaha weaving, Ribcraft excursions, and scuba diving lessons.

Current special offer: Book one hale (bungalow) at the published rate, mention “togethering” and a second hale is 50 percent off the room and meal portion of the rate.

Fairmont Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Arizona

The Fairmont Scottsdale has multiple swimming pools including options with slides that receive rave reviews from kids of all ages. This summer season, they launched a new National Geographic Explorer’s Camp in addition to their regular complimentary kids’ club for ages 5-12.

The new camp will run through September 6 and features educational programs, games, and activities like GPS scavenger hunts and photo safaris. A complete list of activities is available on the hotel’s Web site; Explorer Camp fees range from $61-89 per session. What a fun way to inspire adventure and exploration! The program also features an impressive speakers series that includes scientists, photographers and filmmakers during a few of the Saturday sessions.

Current special offer: Summer Package rates start at $199 per night and include a $100 per day food and beverage credit.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, Lake Tahoe, California

One of the things that makes the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe compelling is the fact that the Camp Hyatt program is unique in this area—there are few hotels on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe offering a comprehensive kids’ club. Many families choose rental homes or condos when staying in and around the lake during summer months for space and value; the downside of rentals options is access to hotel amenities like Camp Hyatt. The session times—9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. -11 p.m.—are ideal for parents that want the freedom to engage in a full day or night out on their own. Potty-trained kids ages 3-12 ($75 per session) may participate.

Tahoe & the Squaw Valley is one of our 10 Springtime Ski Destinations (With Deals You Can’t Miss).

Being outdoors in a fundamental part of enjoying Lake Tahoe and Camp Hyatt activities include sandcastle building, nature walks, and crafts using natural, local materials.

Current special offer: Classic Family Vacation rates include daily breakfast, a 50 percent discount off a second room, a locally inspired in-room snack amenity, and a 15 percent discount off of dining and spa services.

Amie O’Shaughnessy is the Editor of Ciao Bambino!, a family travel blog and worldwide guide to top family-friendly hotels and resorts. Click on Extended Search to sort through programs by age minimums and cost.

Also by Amie O’Shaughnessy:  Seven Reasons to Choose a Family Ranch Vacation.

And what better way to celebrate than by honoring everyday Americans who volunteer to risk their lives, for no pay, to protect their communities?

My latest article, available this weekend in PARADE magazine, focuses on something uniquely American — volunteer firefighters.

Most people don’t realize it, but 75% of all firefighters in America are volunteers.

And few things reflect — and support — individual American communities more than volunteer fire departments.

It also might surprise you to learn who’s been — and who still is — a volunteer firefighter…including yours truly!

Photo by Mark Wexler

So check out the July 4th weekend edition of PARADE magazine, available in most major newspapers, to read Peter’s true tales of some of America’s bravest men and women.

To learn more, visit www.parade.com

You can rent the latest model or your favorite type and if you really like that specific car, you can even buy it later.

The most useful benefit of doing it this way is that if you’re really attached to a specific model, there’s usually more availability at a car dealership than at a car rental agency.

But compare that to traditional car rental companies, which can’t guarantee they’ll have your specific make, model or even size by the time you get to the counter.

And since these dealers want your business, you can often get perks like unlimited mileage and free 24-hour roadside assistance.

But the biggest drawback is that their prices are at least $30 a day, and there’s no way to beat the advertised prices through resources like Priceline.

And insurance, as always, will cost extra.

For more, check out our Driving & Car Rental section.

Looking for more advice? Click here for more Daily Travel Tips.

The country’s history, varied architecture, flavorful food, and great shopping experiences are a draw, but it’s the locals who make a lasting impression.

Kind, helpful and welcoming, with Buddhist values of compassion, care and humility are ingrained in the national personality, which translates into a hospitality industry known for outstanding service.

Many visitors to Thailand try to spend time in the big city, on the beach, and in the north, so a typical itinerary would include Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. With plentiful hotel choices, Ann Cochran scoped out examples of high-end, moderate and economical options:

BANGKOK

The sprawling Thai capital can be exhausting, even for fans of big cities. Zen acceptance of the crowds, noise, traffic, and street cooking is helpful.

For more information on traveling in Bangkok, don’t miss our Off the Brochure Travel Guide to Bangkok, Thailand. Peter also recently broadcast his radio show from Bangkok, so check out Thailand Culture, Bangkok Locals and Travel News from the first hour of Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. And don’t forget we’ve also got great insider information in Ask the Locals: Bangkok, Thailand.

The best tip is to let someone else handle the logistics: have the hotel concierge hire you a private car and driver—these guides tend to be inexpensive, and it’s money well-spent.

Fortunately, most of Bangkok’s big name hotels are along the Chao Phraya River, the heart of the city, which means there’s always free entertainment in form of watercraft passing by at varying speeds.

WORTH THE SPLURGE

Mandarin Oriental
Since 1876, the Oriental (rebranded Mandarin Oriental in 2008) has been recognized as one of the top hotels in the world. Well known for its Michelin-starred chefs, cooking school, spa, lush landscaping, anything-for-you service, and famous guests of the past and present, this impeccable grand hotel can be a good value in this economy. High-season rates (December 2009) currently start from $389. www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok

Also at a higher price point is The Peninsula Bangkok. You can find pictures of that hotel from the radio broadcast on Peter’s Facebook fan page.

MODERATELY PRICED

Sukhothai
Surrounded by gardens with lotus ponds, the Sukhothai is known as an oasis in the downtown business district. A recent addition to Bangkok’s fine hotel scene, it was credited with the much-emulated modern interpretation of Thai interior décor, even in its selection of antiques and sculptures. Rooms and suites are furnished with contemporary polished teak and Thai silks in elegant neutrals. It has a lovely spa, but even walking the corridors of the hotel bestows that spa-like calm, just what the doctor would order after a hectic day in the big city.  Rates are from $255 per night in the high season. www.sukhothai.com

Dream Hotel
Eye-popping color at this hip 100-room hotel will help keep you awake after a long flight. The Dream Hotel Bangkok, in one of the most high-energy parts of town, combines international design trends for what they claim is a “dreamlike surreal experience.” Blue light radiates from under the beds to achieve the effect of floating on a cloud. Aside from fun lighting, rooms have plasma TV, Wi-Fi and iPod players; the hotel has a cool bar, restaurant, a well-regarded spa, and a small gym. From $147 per night in the high season. www.dreambkk.com

BUDGET

Old Bangkok Inn
With rooms prices starting at $107 in peak season, the Old Bangkok Inn offers amazing value for an authentic, though recreated, Thai experience. The inn was built in the historical quarter of Bangkok on land that had been in the owner’s family for seven generations. Each of 10 individually decorated rooms has a private bath, satellite TV, a DVD player, and a PC computer with Internet connection. Owner Nantiya Tulyanond speaks fluent English and enjoys helping guests plan their days, both in the city and beyond. This inn’s best feature may be its proximity to many top sights including the Grand Palace. www.oldbangkokinn.com

Legacy Suites
A budget hotel with a pool, fitness room, and rooftop tennis court? The 108 studios and suites are decorated in contemporary urban style as opposed to traditional Thai or Thai modern. Take the 15-minute walk to the chic Emporium Shopping Center, which can be an interesting anthropological outing instead of a shopping excursion. High-season rates are from $81 a night. www.legacybangkok.com

Buddy Lodge
There is no reason not to go for the deluxe rooms, with balcony, at $70 a night at the Buddy Lodge. Some may be turned off—or on—by its location on Khao San Road, long popular with hippie/backpacker types. More and more budget-minded travelers are finding their way to this neighborhood as it has gotten increasingly trendy and a Starbucks has popped up in a restored mansion. Amenities include a gym, spa and rooftop pool. www.buddylodge.com

WORTH-A-SPLURGE EXPERIENCES

High-Rise Drinks or Dinner at State Tower: Shimmering, sparkling Bangkok, accented by golden temples, lies all around you from the 63rd-floor Sky Bar or the open-air Sirocco restaurant. Dinners average $120; drinks from $11 (soft drinks and beer), $22 wine.www.thedomebkk.com

Custom-Made Clothing: If you can only afford one splurge, make it that perfect dress shirt or black pants. Out of thousands of tailors, Thai Square Fashion is one popular mid-priced option, with $100 pants and $50 shirts; prices include unlimited fittings, and satisfaction is absolutely guaranteed. www.thaisquarefashion.thailand.com

Oriental Experience: If you aren’t staying at the Mandarin Oriental you can still luxuriate for hours in its spa—often voted best in the world. Many treatments are $100; two examples are the 90-minute pedicure and rose facial. A seat at the daily, weekday seminars on Thai culture, arts, architecture and beliefs is $120. www.mandarinoriental.com/bangkok/spa

CHIANG MAI

Chiang Mai is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand, once the powerful and distinctive Lanna Kingdom that spanned 1250-1860 AD. More than 400 miles north of Bangkok, blessedly drier and cooler, it has some of the highest mountains in the country.

The Ping River, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya, runs through it. The city is a Mecca for temples and markets, for handcrafted goods such as silver and woodcarving, silk, and even opportunities to bond with elephants.

WORTH THE SPLURGE

Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi
Jaws really do drop as guests drive in and see a stunning homage to the Lanna Kingdom. The authenticity of this model royal village, built as a working museum, is due to the dedication of the owner and the young architect who drove around the province studying every architectural detail. Their visit to Mandalay, with Chiang Mai woodworkers, resulted in the replication of an ancient palace for the Dhevi Spa building, whose seven-tiered roof represents the journey to nirvana. Cultural guides explain it all on daily tours of the 60-acre grounds.

This resort features a cooking school, a 5,000-volume library and even a white water buffalo—everything you might expect, and more. Accommodations include British colonial style rooms and two-story villas overlooking lush rice paddies. High-season rates start at $495 per room per night plus tax and service. www.mandarinoriental.com/chiangmai

MODERATELY PRICED

Dusit D2
In the heart of downtown Chiang Mai, the lively Night Bazaar is literally outside the D2’s lobby doors. In public spaces as well as the 131 rooms, the décor is Asian but as untraditional as it gets, with sleek lines, brushed steel and glass—and lots of orange. Rooms have spacious bathrooms and all the high end amenities; the hotel has a restaurant and bar, outdoor pool, spa and fitness center. Rates are from $165 a night.
www.dusit.com/hotels/

Muang Gudi Lodge
In the hills north of Chiang Mai, the Muang Gudi Lodge is a graceful, peaceful getaway near attractions that include the Butterfly Farm, Snake Farm, an elephant camp, and Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden. Golfers can play at the nearby Green Valley Country Club. The two restaurants, one open-air, serve Northern Thai and international dishes. Decorated in the ancient Sukothai style, the 26 rooms have beautiful furniture and wall carvings. Guests enjoy the affordable spa and outdoor pool with tropical landscaping, and biking in the area. Although it’s not centrally located, taxis into town are very inexpensive. Nightly rates are from $139. www.muanggudilodge.com

ECONOMICALLY PRICED

Galare Guest House
Starting at only $33 a night Thai-style guest house on the Ping River has wide, covered verandas that overlook a garden and courtyard. The 35 rooms have air-conditioning, private baths and cable TV. The restaurant serves Thai and Western dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on a covered deck overlooking the river. It is away from the action of Chiang Mai but close enough to walk to the Night Market area. www.galare.com

WORTH-A-SPLURGE EXPERIENCE

Inner Flow Therapy at the Dhevi Spa: Possibly life-changing, and at the very least an achievement of the deepest relaxation this side of anesthesia, the therapist stretches the client and uses dance movement to free the mind and body of all stress. Some laugh, some cry afterward. Linger and appreciate the room with its luminous gold tiles. Rates are $115 for an 80-minute session. www.mandarinoriental.com

Elephants 101: At Patara Elephant Farm, visitors can spend a full day learning about, cleaning, riding, and loving one elephant. You’ll never be the same. The $180 price tag helps support these elephants, rescued from unsuitable situations, and includes pick up and delivery from area hotels and a photo CD documenting your day.
www.pataraelephantfarm.com

PHUKET

In the 1970s, Phuket was a refuge for backpackers and hard-partying youth, but it steadily spiffed up into a white-sand playground for everyone, including families, honeymooners, spa-goers, and the yachting set.

There was a hope that after the 2004 tsunami rebuilding would be slow and well-planned. Not a chance. Construction is fast and furious by the crystal waters of the Andaman Sea.

Did you know you can study the muay thai fighting style in Phuket? It’s an experience you’re unlikely to forget. Check out Fighting For Your Vacation.

The island is Thailand’s largest, at 325 square miles, and a prime destination for snorkeling and diving. Nature is bold and dramatic.

Limestone cliffs rise from blue seas, and emerald vegetation carpets the hills. Sunsets are streaked with hot pink and baby-blue swirls.

More than anywhere else in Thailand, where you stay at the beach depends on what kind of vacation you have in mind.

WORTH THE SPLURGE

Six Senses Destination Spa
To truly get away from it all, book a multi-day program and work on transforming your type-A self. This remote spa on its own island (about 10 minutes from Phuket) features four concepts: Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, and Thai. No need to dress up as yoga clothes are issued on arrival. The spa menu includes fish but no meat, or you can choose a raw foods diet.

Six Senses is also one of the most “green” resorts on earth. In fact, thick booklets describing all kinds of efforts—from water and energy conservation to social responsibility— are in each of the 61 villas. Rate from $1,100 per night includes all meals, two spa treatments, and an arrival consultation for two people in a villa with private pool and butler service. www.sixsenses.com/

MODERATELY PRICED

JW Marriott Resort & Spa
Fear not a worldwide chain. There is nothing cookie-cutter about this hotel, which has the longest stretch of beach on Phuket. If you crave some familiarity of home while traveling very far from it, this five-star resort is ideal. As large resorts do, it has variety: 11 restaurants, three pools, an extensive kids program, Thai cooking school, and a lavish spa. The rooms are classically Thai and start from $257 a night. www.marriott.com/

ECONOMICALLY PRICED

Kantary Bay
At Kantary Bay every room is a suite—junior, full or family—each with living and dining areas, a small kitchen and private balcony. Décor is a mix of terra cotta, teak, wrought iron, rattan, and the ubiquitous silks. This is a great find as it’s only $76 a night, about half the price of its sister property, the Sino-Portuguese-style Cape Panwa Hotel, (www.capepanwa.com). Best of all, Kantary guests can take a free, two-minute shuttle ride to enjoy the other property’s amenities: a private beach, water sports center, two pools, tennis courts, and a spa. www.kantarybay-phuket.com

Boomerang Village Cottages and Bungalows
Although this property is not right on the beach, the 10-15 minute walk or five-minute bike ride (complimentary) is worth it. The small island Koh Pu is swimming distance from the beach, with a colorful coral reef in between. Small and personal with a friendly staff, it’s a manicured property on a lush hill overlooking Kata Beach. It’s close enough to nightlife, but quiet. Breakfast is different than at most Thai hotels: the owners are Italian! Rates are from $28 and $60 a night. www.phuket-boomerang.com

AFFORDABLE EXPERIENCES

At the JW Marriott in Phuket, anyone can walk into the lobby and see, for free, the Sunset Ceremony with fire and dance elements. This 30-minute show takes place in the enormous reflecting pool every night at 5:45 p.m. except Tuesdays and Thursdays.

For $46, go to Phuket FantaSea, a cultural theme park with a 3,000-seat theater where 150 cast and 30 elephants put on quite an extravaganza. Tickets include a pre-show buffet. For more unusual experiences like this, check out the World’s Wackiest Theme Parks.

By Ann Cochran for PeterGreenberg.com. Ann is a freelance writer based in Washington, DC. Visit her on the Web at www.annpcochran.com.

Though the airline had not been placed on the European Union’s safety-related blacklist of air carriers forbidden to enter the EU, the French had banned that particular Yemenia plane from entering France.

The fact that safety inspectors had previously discovered problems with the plane has led to calls by some, including the EU’s transportation commissioner, for an international expansion of the airline blacklist.

Read more about the crash with Yemenia Airlines Crash Update: One Child Survives, Black Box Still Missing.

The EU’s current list blocks dozens of airlines around the world from flying into Europe. And while it can (and should) be used by passengers worldwide to investigate the safety of airlines, it has no legal authority outside the borders of the European Union (except in Norway and Switzerland, which are not EU countries but signed up for the blacklist).

But now, EU Transport Commissioner Antonio Tajani has called for a global blacklist that would presumably block unsafe airlines from flying into any country that signed on to some sort of new global air safety treaty.

Interestingly, while Yemenia Airlines had not been placed onto the EU’s blacklist, its safety record was under close scrutiny by European authorities. Deficiencies in Yemenia’s maintenance and engineering operations and an investigation into the Yemen-based airline had led to the discovery of “verified evidence of non-compliance with specific safety standards.”

A plan was put in place to correct the problems—and a follow-up report did “acknowledge the efforts employed by Yemenia to correct the detected safety deficiencies.” While this finding allowed Yemenia to escape being blacklisted at the time, the report called for European nations to “verify systematically” that the airline was consistently maintaining safety standards.

The Chairman of Yemenia, Abdulkalek Saleh Al Kadi, declined an invitation to the EU’s Air Safety Committee meeting on July 2, saying “all our resources are working on the crash investigation.”

In response to questions about Yemenia being added to the blacklist, Al Kadi also said “of course we’re concerned about being blacklisted, but the E.U. should be fair in its judgment. After 40 years of flying without problems, they can’t suddenly decide to put us on a blacklist because of one accident.”

The presumed sole survivor of the Yemenia Airlines crash, a teenaged girl of French-Comoran heritage, Bahia Bakari, was recently reunited with her father in Paris. Her mother is presumed to be among the 152 people killed in the crash.

By Matthew Calcara for PeterGreenberg.com.

Related links: Gadling, Boston Globe, Dow Jones Zawya, Aviation Week

Related links on PeterGreenberg.com:

• Travel Detective Investigates Air France Flight 447 & Commuter Jet Safety
• Former NTSB Lead Investigator on Air France Flight 447
• Experts Discuss Theories on Crash of Air France Flight 447
• Air France Crash, Acapulco Shootout Top Travel News
• Found Debris NOT From Downed Jet; Air France Issues Warnings, Replaces Sensors
• Wreckage of Missing Air France Flight Identified; Cause Still Unclear
• Travel Safety & Security: Plane Crashes News Archive

Featured guests include:

Blogger/columnist Chris Elliott, discussing á la carte pricing from airlines, and the new rules regarding pilot flight hours.

Geraldine Norman, director of the U.K.-based Friends of the Hermitage Club and author of The Hermitage, giving us a peek into the museum’s secret rooms and the items that aren’t available for public viewing.

Chris Epting, author of The Birthplace Book, sharing some “must-see” places in America, from the birthplace of baseball, to the future birthplace of Star Trek’s Captain Kirk.

Mihail Torich, features editor for Time Out St. Petersburg, dishing on the city’s  underground art, music and food scene.

Michelle Higgins, “Practical Traveler” columnist for the New York Times, telling us about the next best budget destination, Australia.

St. Petersburg historian Igor Bogdanov, talking about his favorite places in the city, including the popular but little-publicized Water Museum.

Philip C. Stittleburg, chairman of the National Volunteer Fire Council, reminding us why volunteers firefighters are the backbone of America, and how we can continue to support them.

Russian culture expert Andrei Zonin, talking about the country’s 150 museums, 50 theaters and numerous festivals.

Karen Schaler, author of Travel Therapy, discussing why you should travel, and how to figure out what destination would suit you best.

Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor in chief of CruiseCritic.com, updating us on why river cruising is finally catching on and where the best deals are.

Vladimir Bakanov, restaurateur and expert in Russian cuisine, discussing food, the best places to eat, and his future plans for new eateries in St. Petersburg.

The pass costs $2.50 a day plus the toll costs.

Right now, this option is available in the Northeast, Colorado, Texas, parts of Chicago, even Puerto Rico.

Travelocity has a program where you can get a travel pass when you book car rentals for travel in the Northeast and Midwest.

They’ll send you an electronic toll tag in the mail.

When the trip is over, you mail it back and your credit card is charged for the tolls, plus a $1.99 a day.

So the real question is, is it worth it?

Well, even if you save gas by avoiding long lines, that won’t offset the daily fee.

The real question is how much you time is worth.

For more, check out our Driving & Car Rental section.

Looking for more advice? Click here for more Daily Travel Tips.

In the aftermath of Tuesday’s tragic crash, chaos and confusion seemed to reign as conflicting reports were issued about both the number of survivors and the location of the black boxes.

Initial news stories said that either a five-year-old boy or a 14-year-old girl had been found alive, but subsequent reports claimed that there were no survivors.

As of Wednesday morning it was confirmed that a 12-year-old girl appears to be the only survivor from among the 152 people who were on board the plane.

Read the initial crash report in Yemenia Airlines Jet Crashes into Indian Ocean Near Comoros Islands.

Then on Tuesday the French government said that one of the plane’s black boxes had been found, but later in the day it retracted the statement. Authorities clarified that the search team had simply heard the “ping” from an underwater distress beacon, not a flight data recorder.

Rescue teams are still combing the waters off the coast of the Comoros where the plane went down shortly before landing, in hopes of finding more survivors. However, they say that chances are slim because of the rough seas and high winds.

In fact, authorities are amazed that the 12-year-old girl survived at all, considering that she is said to be fragile and not a very good swimmer. The girl, a French resident of Comoran heritage named Bahia Bakari, managed to cling to a piece of debris for 13 hours until she was rescued.

Read more about related topics:

• Travel Safety & Security–Plane Crashes
• Middle Eastern Travel
• Travel in Africa

Bakari, who suffered only minor injuries, recounted the dramatic scene of the crash to her father, who spoke with French reporters today. She said that she saw the plane hit the water from her window, then was thrown into the ocean in blackness and could hear other passengers talking and screaming around her.

The girl apparently has not yet been told that her mother, who was also on the plane, was killed in the crash. Her father was not on the flight.

Experts say that there have been 12 plane crashes since 1970 in which only one person survived, and dozens more in which a number of passengers came out alive even as other perished.

One of the most notable was United Airlines Flight 232, which crashed in Sioux City, Iowa in July 1989. The plane cartwheeled down the runway and broke apart during a botched landing, but miraculously 185 of the 296 onboard survived.

Aviation analysts say that it is actually not a miracle that people come out of crashes alive, but a matter of both luck and physics. Studies have shown that those seated near the tail of a plane are 40 percent more likely to survive a crash, while those in the front have the smallest chance and those over the wings are somewhere in between.

These odds seem to be primarily related to the fact that the nose of the plane always suffers the brunt of the impact, which is why flight data recorders are located in the rear of the plane.

Other factors that increase the odds of survival are the size of the plane – wide-bodies are safer –  and a passenger’s proximity to emergency exits. However, the rest is left to chance. If a crack in the fuselage happens to open up right next to a passenger’s seat, that person has a greater chance of escaping than someone in a different row.

By Karen Elowitt for PeterGreenberg.com.

Related links: CNN, BBC, New York Times

One of the positive trends is that many devices—including cameras and mobile gaming devices—now use either a mini-USB or micro-USB connector.

Between the device and your computer, only one cord is necessary, with no additional adaptor required.

A computer or an adapter rated at 500 miliamperes typically charge at similar rates. Alternatively, travelers can bring along a charger in which the connecting cord can be swapped out to work with different electronics.

However, as my recent trip to Asia proved, there are plenty of devices that require specialized chargers: I had oodles of cords and adapters to charge my MacBook, iPhone, Bluetooth headset, new Palm Pre, and external batteries and cases with built-in batteries.

• Travel Assistance On Your Smartphone
• Travel Gadget Spotlight: Packing More In Your Carry-On
• Battle of the Gadgets: the Smartphone Wars
• Travel Gadgets and Gizmos: The Winners and Losers for 2009
• Gadgets for Business Travelers on the Go

Many of these products have different connectors for charging, and some even have special adaptor tips that are costly and easy to lose.

For my iPhone I took along the inCase Power Slider which more than doubled its run time. It comes with a mini-USB connector for charging and a built-in battery gauge. $80; www.goincase.com

I also brought a similar product, the Mophie Juice Pak Air, also $80, but slightly slimmer and with a little less capacity. Those gave more than enough time with my iPhone, playing games, watching videos and listening to music for a 15-hour flight, an hour in the lounge and another three-hour flight. www.mophie.com

Another new product that proved to be useful is the Fueltank by Callpod—a rechargeable lithium ion battery that can charge most any mobile cell phone, GPS, earphone, or music player. Charge it up and it can be used to “refill” your phone’s battery about a half dozen times. It can also charge two devices at a time, such as a cell phone and a Bluetooth headset.

But the big drawback is that it needs a special adapter for each device, which costs $10 apiece—and don’t think about losing those tips as it’s useless without them. The Fueltank comes with a mini-USB adapter and a coupon for a second, plus a vinyl case and, of course, its own AC adapter. The base price is $70, not including the additional adaptors. www.callpod.com

PC notebook users should take note of a new product from Innergie. It’s the mCube90 universal power adapter that plugs into the wall and charges any PC as well as a second portable device simultaneously. It works with most notebook computer plus any additional 5-volt USB device up to a maximum of 90 watts. It also has the ability to work with a 9-volt auto/air adapter which means you can charge up in a car, train or plane, although that requires carrying a second power cord.

This is a better choice than buying an additional adapter from your computer company. It’s more compact and can work any brand, which reduces obsolescence if you switch computers. $100; www.myinnergie.com

By Phil Baker for PeterGreenberg.com. You can read Phil’s blog at blog.philipgbaker.com, and check out his new book, From Concept to Consumer: How to Turn Ideas into Money.

More travel gadget reviews and news:

• Travel Assistance On Your Smartphone
• Travel Gadget Spotlight: Packing More In Your Carry-On
• Travel Tech Bargains for Holiday Shoppers
• Top Mobile Phones for Travelers in 2008
• The Pros and Cons of Top Carry-On Bags for Laptops
• Best and Worst in Travel Tech Today
• Battle of the Gadgets: the Smartphone Wars
• Travel Gadgets and Gizmos: The Winners and Losers for 2009
• Gadgets for Business Travelers on the Go
• Taking the Complexity Out of Making Travel Videos
• Mini Notebooks: Can Something So Cute Be Useful?