Before You Take That Cruise ...

1,350 passengers, 500 crew to set sail from Southampton, UK

(NEWSER) - It seems about 1,350 brave souls are willing to tempt fate big-time: Every passenger slot on the MS Balmoral's Titanic Memorial Cruise has been booked. The ship will depart on April 8 from Southampton, UK; steam toward 41°43'57"N, 49°56'49"W; and spend two days on the spot where the Titanic sank 100 years ago, on April 15, 1912. It will then (fingers crossed) continue on the Titanic's intended route, to Halifax and then New York City. More»

Inventive company unveils design for a 21st-century airship

(NEWSER) - Cruise passengers of the near future could be floating above the Earth in colossal kite-shaped craft if design firm Seymourpowell's plans take off from the drawing board. The firm, whose work was sponsored by Samsung, says its Aircruise concept could someday be a leisurely, environmentally friendly alternative to flying for the luxury traveler, CNN reports. More»

Columnist pumps experts for hard-earned knowledge, tips

(NEWSER) - MSNBC travel columnist Christopher Elliott asks those sulky veterans of the airways— business travelers—for their best tips on making life on the road tolerable:

1. Expect nothing, and you won't be disappointed.
2. Be nice. It can't hurt, and it might even help.
3. Never pay cash—credit cards offer some protection against scams.

Secret ways hotels gouge you when you're not looking

(NEWSER) - If you're hurrying to catch a plane, you might sign that hotel bill without a second glance. Avoid unpleasant surprises by looking out for Forbes Traveler's list of hidden fees:

1. Resort fee: Some resorts tack on a $10 to $25 fee per day for use of their facilities... even if you never do. Ask before you book.
2. Phone fees: Stick with your cell phone to avoid pricey surcharges.

Forget Paris—these great vacation sites can be found in your own backyard

(NEWSER) - Patricia Schultz, author of 1,000 Places to See in the USA and Canada Before You Die, turns Forbes readers onto her top 15:

1. The Pacific Coast Highway
2. Monument Valley, Utah and Ariz.
3. Texas Hill Country