Brother, can you spare a euro?

LUXEMBOURG - Sadly, being a world tax haven isn't what it used to be. All those nasty new disclosure laws. Uncle Sam snooping into private bank vaults. Euro powers whining about tax evaders. Suddenly, the party's over in banking tax havens like Luxembourg and Switzerland.

Canceling hotel or B&B stay could be costly

You find a great hotel rate online and hit the button to book it. But did you read the "terms and conditions" section? If you didn't, that great rate could cost you hundreds of dollars.

 

Travel Troubleshooter: Slept in unmade bed? That's bad

Question: I'm trying to get some compensation for a hotel stay that didn't meet my expectations. But all I've gotten so far is an empty apology. I hope you can do better.

Md.'s Eastern Shore, and Italy by train

Here are travel bargains around the globe, by land, sea, and air. Deals sell out quickly and are not guaranteed to be available. Restrictions such as day of travel, blackout dates, and advance-purchase requirements may apply.

Personal Journey: In China, way beyond white rice

In China, what does not kill you (or leave you clutching your tormented stomach for days) tastes amazing. After graduating from Carnegie Mellon University's School of Architecture in May, I embarked on a three-month internship in Changsha, capital of Hunan province, to design a pavilion for the Shanghai 2010 World Expo. Until then, my experience with Chinese food was limited to General Tso takeout and my roommate's rice cooker. To say dining in China was a shock to my system is an understatement.

 

10 for the Road

10 for the Road You can plan now to attend these weekend events, occurring within a few weeks and within a day's drive of Philadelphia.

Cash-strapped states closing highway rest areas

NORLINA, N.C. - The adage "No rest for the weary" could have been coined with Mark and Barbara Van Art in mind.

 

Transportation hurdles loom at Olympics

There could be a new Olympic event for anyone trying to drive in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, or to Whistler during the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in February - marathon traffic snarls.

 

Foreign Exchange

Here is what a U.S. dollar buys (in commercial trades; consumer rates may be lower). Country   Nov. 12 Year ago   

If Orlando makes you smile . . .

ORLANDO, Fla. - Why does Orlando make you smile? If you're between the ages of 13 and 18 and can show the answer on film, you're invited to take part in a competition sponsored by the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Florida Film Festival, and an organization called KIDS FIRST!