We crossed paths with this elephant herd in northern Namibia, the smaller of the two babies is approximately six weeks old and the larger baby is aprox six months old. We’ve seen more elephants than people in Namibia.

The most common question fliers are asked after arriving at the airport: “how was your flight?”  You could answer with complaints about food, seatmates, flight attendants with attitude or turbulence.  But that is all relative.  The bottom line when it comes to judging an airline: they were able to get you to the destination safely.

If you look at the percentages, air travel is much, much safer than braving the highway in a car.  Airplane accidents, though they get a lot of media coverage, are extremely rare.  Most fliers go their entire lives experiencing no more than turbulence and the occasional bumpy landing.

But accidents do happen.  Choosing an airline based on its safety record is reasonable, but does not necessarily  guarantee safety.  Dustin Hoffman’s classic character in Rain Man famously claimed he would not fly any airline besides Qantas because it was the only one that had not had a fatal crash.  A few years ago, a series of incidents turned the Rain Man scene from advertisement into irony.

The Daily Beast recently ranked airlines based on their safety.  For domestic fliers in the US, these statistics should be taken in context.  Every commercial airline in the US has an enviable safety records when compared to lesser known airlines around the world.  Over the past year, Continental saw the most in-flight incidents.  Delta and United were not far behind.  No US carrier has been involved in a major crash since 2001.

Not all airlines put the same premium on safety.  Last year, an Aeroflot plane headed to New York from Moscow was halted when passengers noticed the pilot stumbling and slurring his speech prior to takeoff.  According to a reporter who was on-board, when passengers raised concerns, an Aeroflot employee announced: “It’s not such a big deal if the pilot is drunk.  Really, all he has to do is press a button and the plane flies itself. The worst that could happen is he’ll trip over something in the cockpit.”

Finally, passengers demands for a new crew were accepted.

That was not the worst Aeroflot incident.  Earlier in the  year, a domestic flight crashed, killing 88 people.  Alcohol was found in the pilot’s body.  Another fatal crash occurred in 1994, when a pilot let his 15 year old son take over the controls.  The boy sent the plane into a nose-dive, killing all on board.

But Russia is not the most dangerous place to fly.  According to the EU, Africa has that distinction.  The EU has banned numerous airlines from Congo, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Equatorial Guinea and Angola.

Another major international airline with a bad reputation in Garuda, Indonesia’s national carrier.  A series of accidents, most of them involving domestic flights, caused the airline to be banned from EU airspace.  The ban was recently lifted after the carrier cleaned up its act.

The bottom line: if you stick to major commercial carriers, you chances of dying in an airplane crash are akin to hitting the winning lottery numbers.

To admire monumental fireworks, participate in fun-filled activities, and indulge in the excitement that only a big city can offer, take advantage of these 7 city hotel deals this Fourth of July weekend.

1. Save Almost 30% on Deluxe Accommodations at the Park Hyatt, Washington DC

With its fascinating historical sites and famed fireworks display, Washington DC is an ideal destination for enjoying a lively Fourth of July weekend. The Park Hyatt is offering “An American Holiday” package, which includes a complimentary upgrade to a Premier Park Deluxe Room, breakfast table for two, daily 50% credit towards valet parking, and a seasonal red, white, and blue amenity. Rates start at $249 plus tax, saving you almost 30%. Visit www.parkhyattwashington.com or call 1-800-778-7477 to make a reservation.

2. Save 20% on a Two-Night Stay and 30% on a Three-Night Stay at Hotel Felix in Chicago

Hotel Felix is a budget-friendly and eco-friendly boutique hotel in Chicago that recently earned the Green Seal Environmental Standard for Lodging-Silver certification. If you want to save 20% to 30%, book a two to three-night stay through July 4th. You can place your reservation by visiting www.hotelfelixchicago.com or calling toll-free at 800-848-4040.

3. July 4th Family Fun Package Starting at $89 at the Hampton Inn in Seattle

Guests arriving on the 4th can book a July 4th Family Fun Package at the Hampton Inn in Seattle for a rate of between $89 and $129. This package includes accommodations for up to four guests, a complimentary shuttle to Fort Dent Park for the day, a hot continental breakfast, and an extended checkout of 3pm. Call 800-774-1500 and request the plan code PFK to place your reservation.

4. Stay 3 Nights and Save 25% Each Night at the Langham, Boston from July 1-6

If you’re participating in Boston’s Fourth of July festivities from July 1-6, don’t miss this offer. When you stay a minimum of 3 nights at the Langham in Boston during the Fourth of July celebrations, you receive 25% off each night. The Langham is an ideal jumping off point for your stay in Boston, as it’s only steps away from some of Boston’s greatest attractions, including the Freedom Trail and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Nightly rates start at $191. For more information about this deal, visit http://boston.langhamhotels.com.

5. Enjoy an Outdoor 4th of July Feast and a Two-Night Stay at the Wentworth Mansion in Charleston, South Carolina

The Wentworth Mansion, the only AAA Five Diamond hotel in Charleston, is hosting an outdoor 4th of July feast called the Sizzling Southern Celebration at 7pm on their lawn. Classic southern fare will be served at the event, and dinner will be accompanied by live music. After the celebration, guests will watch the fireworks and drink champagne at the Wentworth Mansion’s cupola. This package includes a two-night stay and costs $975 per couple. To place a reservation, call 843-853-7828.

6. Stay Two Nights and Get the Third Free at the Rittenhouse 1715 Hotel in Philadelphia

The Rittenhouse 1715 Hotel is a boutique hotel in the historic city of Philadelphia. If you stay at the Rittenhouse this 4th of July weekend, you can take advantage of their “Buy 2, Stay 3” deal on all rooms. Nightly rates start at $269 and include complimentary wine reception and breakfast each day. Visit www.rittenhouse1715 for more information about this time-sensitive offer.

7. Save up to 25% at the Mandarin Oriental in San Francisco

The sky-high Mandarin Oriental in San Francisco boasts legendary service, stunning views, and elegant guest rooms. On 4th of July weekend, rates at the Mandarin Oriental will start at just $295 for a Superior King room, representing a savings of 15% to 25%. Mandarin Oriental’s Silks Restaurant earned a top spot in the Zagat Survey 2008 and has a Mobil Four Star rating. The hotel itself has won numerous awards, including the Conde Nast Traveler 2009 Gold List and Travel + Leisure 2009 World’s Best Hotels. For reservations or additional information, please call (415) 276-9888 or visit www.mandarinoriental.com/sanfrancisco.

San Francisco is a haven for budget travelers! The city’s free museums, parks, and other public activities can make anyone’s stay as affordable as it is unforgettable! Below are the best of San Francisco’s many free options.

1. San Francisco Center for the Book

Ever wondered what goes into making a book? The San Francisco Center for the Book promotes knowledge of book arts, in both their basic and experimental forms. The Center hosts 30 free events per year, in subjects such as printing, binding, engraving, and restoration. It additionally houses a gallery of local book artwork. Be sure to stop in and learn more about this fascinating underappreciated art form!

2. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

This museum holds over 26,000 pieces of modern art, including photography, paintings, sculpture, and media arts. Works by Matisse, Frida Kahlo, Marcel Duchamp, Ansel Adams, and many other famous artists sit alongside those by regional artists. This year celebrate the museum’s 75th birthday with their special anniversary exhibition! Admission is free the first Tuesday of every month.

3. Critical Mass San Francisco

If your visit falls on the last Friday of the month, be sure to participate in San Francisco’s Critical Mass bike ride! Bicyclists of all ages take to the streets and ride as a single mass through the evening. Critical Mass, an event celebrated in hundreds of cities around the world, has its roots in San Francisco, so there’s no better place to have your first ride!

4. Asian Art Museum of San Francisco

With 17,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of art history, San Francisco’s Asian Art Museum contains one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the world. The gallery includes pottery from Goryeo-dynasty Korea, Tibetan Buddhist scrolls, the largest collection of Japanese bamboo baskets outside Japan, and an overview of the 21st century Asian art world. Admission is free the first Sunday of every month.

5. Movies at Dolores Park

Want to get outside and enjoy a great movie? Dolores Park hosts free movie nights the second Tuesday of every month. Films tend to be locally themed and have previously included Starsky & Hutch and Back to the Future.

6. Tai Chi in the Park

Want to learn self-defense, or just discover a relaxing activity? The city of San Francisco funds Tai Chi lessons, free of charge! The lessons are held outdoors, at several parks throughout San Francisco. No registration; just show up and get ready to learn a great skill!

7. Grace Cathedral

This beautiful cathedral is both a San Franciscan landmark and the center of a thriving Episcopal community. Admire the architecture, explore the interior, and learn about the city’s Episcopal community in this stunning church.

8. Wells Fargo History Museum

Sitting where Wells Fargo was first founded, this museum covers the history of San Francisco from the Gold Rush to the present, with a focus on the role played by the famous company. Exhibits cover subjects such as the stagecoach robber Black Bart to the 1906 earthquake.

9. Cable Car Museum

This museum stands as a testament to San Francisco’s one-booming cable car industry. In addition to housing three antique cable cars, the museum contains old tools, tracks, breaks, and photographs. Learn about this fascinating slice of the city’s history!

10. San Francisco Fire Department Museum

Explore the history of San Francisco’s Fire Department at this unique museum! The museum features trucks, engines and other apparatuses from 1810 to the present.

11. Randall Museum

This natural history museum contains various educational exhibits and classes intended to promote a better relationship between humans and animals. Exhibits cover subjects such as California’s earthquake history and coexistence with urban animals. In addition, it houses over 100 species of live animals. Bring the whole family and learn about the San Francisco’s natural heritage!

12. De Young Museum

San Francisco’s de Young Museum houses pieces of fine art from around the world. In addition to its collection of American paintings, which is among the largest in the country, the museum has collections of Oceanic, African, and pre-Columbian American artwork of all styles. Current exhibitions focus on print-making, Amish quilts, and post-impressionism, the later exhibit featuring work by Van Gogh and Cezanne. Admission is free the first Tuesday of the month.

13. Boudin Bakery

Just upstairs from the Boudin Bakery lies a museum dedicated to the history of San Francisco, sourdough bread, and the bakery. Stop by for a loaf, check out this free museum, and learn about this fun slice of San Franciscan history!

Thirsting for more than the usual backyard cookout this Fourth of July weekend? Check out these 8 Fourth of July weekend beach hotel deals to celebrate our nation’s independence in the sun, sand, and surf this year.

1. 2-for-1 Discount on Turneffe Atoll Adventure Tours in Belize

Take a weeklong Caribbean tour based at the Turneffe Flats Resort to enjoy activities like snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, dolphin watching, kayaking, and hiking around Turneffe Atoll and Lighthouse Atoll. With this 2-for-1 discount, you’ll save $1028 off the regular price for two people. This offer is only valid for departures between June and August 2010. Click here for more information.

2. Nightly rates Starting at $97 at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa in Fort Myers, Florida

On Fourth of July Weekend, guests at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa can participate in a karaoke contest and a plethora of other activities, including volleyball tournaments, waterslides, live music performances, fireworks cruises, and dive-in movies. Rates start at $97 all summer and Florida residents get a special 15 percent discount. Click here for details.

3. “Red, White, & Boom” Packages Starting at $510 at the TradeWinds Island Resorts in St. Pete Beach, Florida

From July 2-7, 2010, celebrate our nation’s birthday in style at the Island Grand and Sandpiper Suites. Included in the “Red, White, & Boom” package are accommodations for three nights, a buffet for two on Sunday, July 4th, and all of the benefits included in the resort amenity fee. If you decide to extend your stay, you’ll get up to 50% off on July 5-7. For reservations and information, call toll-free (866) JUST LET GO (587-8538) or visit www.JustLetGo.com.

4. Book the Scuba Diving Package at the Small Hope Bay Lodge on Andros Island, Bahamas and Receive 5% Off

A small, family-run resort, Small Hope Bay Lodge is cozy and inviting. In commemoration of its 50th anniversary, Small Hope is offering a 5% discount when you book their 7 day/8day scuba diving package by June 30, 2010. The package includes three scuba diving sessions per day, a night dive, and all amenities. If you ask for the Nassau Airfare Special when you book your package, you’ll also receive free round trip airfare between Nassau and Andros. Click here for further details.

5. Save up to $300 on a Four-Night Stay at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel

After its $50 million renovation, the Loews Miami Beach Hotel is ready to show off its stunning new look. Through September 30th, guests at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel receive a fourth night free and a $100 food & beverage credit. Summer rates start at $199 per night, so this deal translates to savings of up to $300 on a four-night stay. Click here for more information about this package.

6. Get a $50 per night resort credit and Luxury Accommodations for only $159 per night at the Costa d’Este Resort in Vero Beach, Florida

Owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan, the Costa d’Este Resort in Vero Beach, Florida is one of the top 10 celebrity-owned resorts in the world. Take advantage of the “Sea and Be Scene” package this 4th of July weekend to get luxury accommodations starting at $159 per night, a resort credit of $50 per night, and a $100 voucher good for future stays of two nights or more. The resort credit can be used at the cabana bar, spa, or Oriente, the resort’s Cuban-fusion restaurant. To place a reservation, call 877-562-9919.

7. Kids Stay Free at the All-Inclusive Velas Resorts in Mexico

From June 1st to August 31st, two children 12 and under can stay and eat free when occupying the same room as their parents at the Velas Resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, while children 16 and under can stay and eat free at the Riviera Maya resort. Nightly rates start at $190 at the Velas Vallarta Suite Resort in Puerto Vallarta, $394 at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya, and $425 at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Amenities include suite accommodations, a la carte gourmet meals, a fitness center, a kids’ club, evening entertainment, gratuities, activities for adults and children, and much more. For more information or to make a reservation, please call Velas Resorts at 1-888-323-4294 or visit www.velasresorts.com.

8. Save 15% at the Kalinago Beach Resort in St. George’s, Grenada

The Kalinago Beach Resort in St. George’s, Grenada is offering a 15% discount off of rack rates between June 20th and July 15th. Located on the white sands of Mourne Rouge Beach, the Kalinago Beach Resort boasts luxurious accommodations, panoramic views, and a tranquil atmosphere. Visit www.kalinagobeachresort.com or call 473-444-KALI (5254) for more information about this offer.

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The city of Savannah was established in 1733 and was the first state capital of Georgia. Today Savannah’s downtown area, which includes the Savannah Historic District, the Savannah Victorian Historic District and 22 park-like squares, is one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts in the United States.

You might find it hard to believe, but the words “affordable” and “Disney vacation” can go together in the same sentence. With some careful planning, saving money on your vacation to the happiest place on earth is not an impossible feat. Keep these tips in mind if you want to enjoy a memorable vacation at Disney World in Orlando without having to pinch pennies and stress out about every expenditure.

Go during the Off Season

The off season at Orlando’s Disney World runs from September through May, not counting major holidays and school vacations. Both hotels inside and outside of the theme park are discounted throughout the off season. Visitor numbers (and prices) are lowest in April, January, early February, and in the fall months after school is back in session.

Staying Inside of the Park vs. Outside of the Park

Staying inside the park is usually more expensive than staying in a hotel outside of the park, but it also has its advantages. The most affordable hotels within the park include the All-Star Movies Resort, All-Star Music Resort, All-Star Sports Resort, and Disney’s Pop Century Resort. If you’re really on a tight budget, there are also numerous campsites available at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. The most affordable hotels outside of the park include the Holiday Inn Main Gate East and the Fairfield Inn International Drive.

Renting a condo or vacation home is another option to consider. When you stay in a rental, you have access to a kitchen. Dining will take a big bite out of your budget if you’re not careful, and having access to a kitchen and preparing your own meals can save you hundreds of dollars on your stay. Travel industry research has shown that vacationers spend more money on food each day then they do on lodging.

How to Save on Park Passes

To save on Disney World passes, find out if you qualify for any discounts, such as corporate, military, and Florida resident discounts. If you plan to visit the park for more than a two day period, make sure to buy your passes in advance. The cheapest sources for multiple day passes are AAA offices and online ticket brokers, such as Undercover Tourist.

Dining Tips

The meals inside of Disney World are very expensive, so avoid them if you can. If you do decide to eat one meal a day in the park, make it lunch, because it’s always cheaper than dinner.

When you dine outside of the park, look for restaurants that offer “kids free” deals. Most restaurants that offer these deals post prominent signs. You should also contact the Orlando Visitor’s Bureau to request a Magicard and vacation planner. You can get good discounts on lodging and meals if you show the Magicard at establishments where it is accepted.

Stock Up on the Necessities

Stock up on items like diapers, sunscreen, and batteries before going to Disney World. Although these items are available inside of the theme park, they are far more expensive there. Also, bring water bottles and snacks with you to the park because the cost of buying water and snacks in the park can add up significantly.

Buy Souvenirs on the Last Day

To avoid wasting money on impulse buys, wait until the last day of your trip to buy souvenirs. That way you’ll be 100% sure about your purchases.

You can save a lot of money on Disney character-themed goods by shopping at outlet malls in Orlando. It is possible to save as much as 50% on merchandise that is still sold in the park.

Ten years ago, a group of adventurous winemakers set their sights on an Argentine valley called , an unusually fertile and eerily beautiful corner of Patagonia. They plowed, planted and waited. The outcome? A blossoming wine country with delicious pinot noirs and malbecs and smartly designed wineries.

One of the area’s pioneers, the 2,000-acre Bodega del Fin del Mundo (www.bodegadelfindelmundo.com), which works with the influential wine consultant Michel Rolland, is racking up international medals for its complex merlot, cabernet and malbec blends. And NQN (bodeganqn.com.ar), which is associated with the Argentine oenologist Roberto de la Mota, has seen its 2006 Colección NQN Malbec get 92 points from Wine Enthusiast. Nearby is the new Valle Perdido winery (www.valleperdido.com.ar), which includes an 18-room resort surrounded by vineyards. At the spa, ask for antioxidant wine-infused treatments. — Paola Singer

Oregon’s largest city is famous for its roses, breweries, and environmental friendliness. If those weren’t reasons enough to visit, it also has plenty of options for budget travelers! Visit beautiful parks, go for a bike ride, and look through one of the world’s largest bookstores!

1. Washington Park

This 400-acre park is home to the Portland Children’s Museum, Hoyt Arboretum, Oregon Zoo, and the International Rose Test Garden. In addition, Washington Park contains the Portland Japanese Garden: an authentic Japanese garden composed of five different garden styles. Spend the afternoon enjoying all the natural beauty that Washington Park has to offer!

2. Powell’s City of Books

Taking up an entire city block, Powell’s City of Books is one of the largest independent bookstores in the world. The bookstore holds over 4 million books, buying an additional 3,000 per day. While you’re perusing the shelves, check out the store’s built-in art gallery.

3. Pioneer Courthouse Square

Host to over 300 events per year, Pioneer Courthouse Square is the most visited place in the city of Portland. Events this summer include the Festival of the Flowers, farmer’s markets, and meditation instruction. Whatever is going on during your visit, stop by the Square and discover what has been called one of the best public spaces in the world!

4. Forest Park

Oregon’s 5,000 acre Forest Park is the largest urban park in the United States. Hike, bike, or run through the 50 miles of trails that cut through the park.

5. Rose City Critical Mass

Like hundreds of other cities around the world, Portland hosts a Critical Mass Bike Ride on the last Friday of every month. This spontaneous bike ride takes hundreds of cyclists on a destination-less ride through downtown Portland. Bring your bike and participate in this unforgettable event!

6. International Rose Test Garden

Due to its climate, Portland has long been a major site of rose production. The International Rose Test Garden functions as both a traditional garden and a test site for the breeding of hybrid roses. Come and admire the 7,000 roses of 550 varieties at the oldest rose test garden in the United States!

7. Hoyt Arboretum

Take a break from the city and explore the natural beauty of Hoyt Arboretum! The arboretum holds over 1,000 species of trees from around the world. Twelve miles of trails go through the grounds, so whether you want to learn about trees or get some exercise, Hoyt Arboretum is the place for you!

8. Multnomah Falls

Just outside of Portland lies this stunning, scenic waterfall. With a 620-foot drop, Multnomah is the second tallest year-round waterfall in the country.

The average flier probably doesn’t pay too much attention to flight attendants. They merely want to get from point A to point B without hassle.  As long as a member of the cabin staff doesn’t spit in their drink, bar them from the lavatory or spill coffee in their lap, everything is roses.

For other fliers, though, decent service is one of the necessities of a positive air travel experience.

In recent years, some aspects of the in-flight experience have been taken out of the hands of  flight attendants.  It is not their fault that most airlines have adopted a la carte pricing; forcing passengers to pay for everything from a blanket and pillow to a drink to (allegedly – see below) the bathroom.

Most fliers will cite these recent a la carte experiences as proof that in-flight service is not what it used to be.  Of course, this is mostly due to cost cutting measures made by the airlines, not the misdeeds of cabin staff.

Peanuts and water have replaced full meals or more substantial snacks on most flights, and frequent fliers may even find these munch-ables a rarity.  Still, food plays an important part in people’s perceptions of airlines.

A recent survey by SeatGuru showed that food, when it actual was served, was worst on American Airlines, United and US Airways.  International airlines scored much higher, with Air France and Singapore Air topping the overall list.  Continental was the only US carrier to receive a significant amount of positive feedback from survey-takers for its edibles.

Though not part of an official survey, Doug Lansky, author of the worst-of-travel book Titanic Awards, recently published photos of the five worst airline meals in the Huffington Post.  If you want to cure your hunger pangs, merely taking a look at these photos – featuring the culinary miscarriages of Aeroflot, Ukraine International, Air Bostwana and Alitalia – will be enough to have you rummaging through  your carry-on for that Snickers you think you remembered to pack.

Low-cost-carriers are notorious for their non-customer-service-oriented staff.  Ireland’s Ryanair employs flight attendants who are often more akin to surly junior high hall monitors than helpful customer care representatives (perhaps taking a cue from their brash CEO).  In the US, regional carriers affiliated with major airlines (such as American Airlines affiliate American Eagle) generally score quite low on quality surveys.  Independent LCCs in the US  fare much better when it comes to customer satisfaction.  JetBlue, Southwest and Midwest often top survey-informed rankings.

Skytrax, a research firm that ranks airlines worldwide after extensive user-surveying, is a good source for learning the quality of international airlines.  The only carrier to receive one-star (out of five) is North Korea’s national carrier Air Koryo.

There a numerous two-star airlines, though Ryanair is the only notable member of the group.  Its now-infamous staff received only a single star when it came to helpfulness and treatment of passengers.  National carriers of less visited countries (Air Nepal, Cubana Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways and Air Malawi) are Ryanair’s low-quality peers, though operations budgets may be a major reason for poor performance and lack of amenities.