CNN posted an article talking about babies flying on airplanes and how their crying affects other travelers. I would just like to utilize my own platform (you know since this is my blog) to voice my opinion on the subject. I actually feel like I am an expert on the subject because I have been on over 100 flights in the past two years and twenty flights with my newborn baby. So I have recently been on both sides of the equation.

I too have been annoyed by children on airplanes. But I see where they are coming from. Flying is not pleasant for 9 out of 10 travelers (the 10^th is flying first class) and it is a stressful situation. So of course the child starts out anxious, tired and grumpy. Most of the times the child has missed a nap, snack time, or has not had enough time to run around and play. However- parents need to be held responsible to keep children from kicking the seats in front of them, talking too loud, or throwing things at other passengers.

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Justin over at Southern Explorations sent me their list of the 10 best reasons to visit South America in 2010. I thought it was extremely pertinent because I am sending my photographer to Argentina this week.  I am a little sad to not be going myself- but figure our brother-in-law would be a better companion because he speaks the language.

So here you go- as if you needed an excuse, the top 10 best reasons to visit South America in 2010:

1. It’s Still Affordable: It used to cost much more to fly to South America than to Europe but not anymore. Airfares from many US cities are comparable, and after you arrive, you’ll find hotel and meal prices mostly lower. Favorable exchange rates make 2010 the perfect time to go.

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I find this concept fascinating, L.A. Gang Tours expects to open to the public in January, giving tourists a look at the heart of the nation’s gang culture — the birthplace of many of the city’s gangs, including Crips and Bloods, Florencia 13 and 18th Street. For just $65 for an adult you can experience the real South Central L.A.

A bus tour of some of the hardest areas of the city, including decayed public housing, sites of deadly shootouts and streets ravaged by racial unrest. Sound intriguing? This sounds like the type of tour my sociology class would have loved. While it does sound a little controversial, scary, and like a heavy dose of reality, if it’s done right it can be a great thing for the area educating people on the underbelly of society.

Does it make you feel a little better that the proceeds go right back to the community? Profits will be put back into the community through jobs, tours in new areas and loans to inner-city entrepreneurs.

Visit the L.A. Gang Tour’s website for more information and to reserve your spot!

I’m curious to see how the launch of these tours turn out, what do you say? Will you sign up for a tour during your next trip to LA? Very tempting.

Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving from all your friends here at Dotting The Map! We hope you have safe and fun turkey travels!

Just a note that if you thought travel was stressful on Wednesday, you will be surprised to find out that according to USA Today it’s only the 36th busiest day of the year to travel!! Apparently summer days call for far more stressful times at airports!

When choosing a hotel the amenities that mattered to me were simple. Location, price and rating were what determined whether or not if I would choose to book a room. A posh and chic hotel located downtown was always on my wish list. But due to recent events in my life, priorities have changed. The transition from couple to family has changed my perspective on vacations and traveling and what’s important when I am choosing a hotel.

So what exactly makes a family friendly hotel? Is it just offering cribs and free breakfast to children under 12? Perhaps it’s more. Perhaps it involves the overall attitude of the hotel. There are definitely hotels built for romantic getaways or hotels that are built to be five star extravagances catering to the rich and famous. Maybe family friendly hotels are built from the ground up with an attitude of fun and adventure. Maybe it’s more than just a checklist of a few amenities.

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