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Geeky destinations to discover during New York Comic Con

From glittery vampires to people running from the undead, New York Comic Con is the East Coast’s mecca for pop culture fans. 

New York Comic Con


But there are plenty of nerdgasms to be had exploring the city to see where famous movies and shows were filmed. Plus, we’ll let you know where you can stay some of these uber-cool locales, along with the best ways to around town and how to get there.

In a perfect world you’ll be booking your flight to NYC as soon as you can for the event. But sometimes you’re going to need to book at the last minute. Just pulling a search on our flight finder for two roundtrip tickets to New York City from Oct. 8 to Oct. 11, we found some really good deals. Boston fanboys can fly to the Big Apple for $103, while the good people of Chicago can get there for $114. Dallas ($175), Atlanta ($197), and Miami ($114) also have direct flights to New York that won’t have you scarfing down Ramen noodles… well, not any more than usual.

New York Comic Con flights

We’re good for flights. Now to tackle hotels. New York Comic Con does an excellent job of negotiating rates for fans coming into town, even setting up free shuttles at various spots in the nearby area. The only problem as last-minute travelers know all too well is those hotels can, and will, be booked well in advance. That isn’t such a bad thing though, as we can find you a couple of awesome places to stay that are either near or some of your favorite comic book and pop culture moments.

Let’s start at The Gotham Hotel. While the name may invoke images of the Caped Crusader, it has a bit more to do with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Gotham is just a four-minute walk down East 46th Street to the MetLife Building. And that building, my friends, was the served as the model of Stark Tower for “The Avengers.” And don’t worry about the Chitauri – they’re not doing any flybys any time soon.


New York Comic Con


If you’re willing to make the trek to Tribeca, you’ll find yourself at the Hilton Garden Inn Tribeca. It’s a great three-star lodging near a couple of nice parks, but it’s three minutes away (on foot) from Hook & Ladder 8 – the home of the Ghostbusters. The exterior is just like you remember from the movies, but the inside won’t remind you of Venkman, Spangler, Stantz or Zeddemore since interior shots were filmed in Los Angeles. Still, you can always chat up the brave crew inside to perhaps get a peek inside the firehouse. There’s even a subtle tribute to the films in an FDNY shield with the Ghostbuster logo in the middle just outside the truck entrance.

Let’s turn our attention from the supernatural to Time Lords, and the Comfort Inn Central Park West. This comfy not-so-little hotel is right next to Central Park, which is where Whovians bid farewell to Amy Pond for good in the “Doctor Who” episode “Daleks in Manhattan.”

“Doctor Who” fans should also find some time to hit up The Way Station in Brooklyn. This restaurant takes its love of the BBC show to another level with “Madame de Pompadour sponge cake,” a bathroom decked out like the TARDIS, and various drinks named after the good doctor(s).


New York Comic Con


A little time travel can go a long way, kind of like how an epic superhero battle can. Take the throwdown between Spider-man (Tobey Maguire, not Andrew Garfield) and the Green Goblin from the 2002 flick, for example. The Queensboro Bridge was the perfect place for such a fight, and makes for one of the more picturesque Marvel movie filming locations. A locale you can see if you’re staying at The Bentley Hotel.

We know the whole reason for this trip is to see some of New York Comic Con’s guests, which include the likes of Todd McFarlane, Stephenie Meyer, Bruce Campbell (Ash!!!), Nathan Fillion, and many other awesome people. But the Javits Center is in Hell’s Kitchen. Hell’s Kitchen is the stomping grounds of Matt Murdock, a.k.a. Daredevil. And while the show is using various spots around the city to bring things to life, we can still check out some of the more noticeable locations. Heck, you might even see them filming this or other Netflix/Marvel shows with a quick look over at onlocationvacations.com while in town for NYCC.

Want to check out where mob bosses meet their maker via a bowling ball, like what happened in the episode “Rabbit in a Snowstorm?” Take a trip to Whitestone Lanes in Flushing. It’s open 24/7, so you don’t have to worry about anyone getting the drop on you. Can’t say the same about a 7-10 split, though.


In episode 6 “condemned,” Daredevil takes Russian baddie Vladimir to an abandoned warehouse to save him from Wilson Fisk’s thugs. That warehouse is actually Exit Room NY, which describes itself as an art gallery/cultural space on Meserole Street in Bushwick, Brooklyn. It’s about a 40-minute subway ride (take the 7 to 4,5, or 6 trains to the L train) from the Javits Center, so get yourself a seven-day Unlimited Ride Pass for $31 to use during your stay in NYC.


New York Comic Con


Daredevil did a bit of double dipping when it came to their scenes at the Rockefeller Center Roof Gardens. Yes, this is where Fisk had a chat with Madame Gao to discuss NYC crime boss stuff. But Sam Raimi used the same spot for a meet-cute of sorts between Spider-Man and Mary Jane Watson after a battle with the Green Goblin. These gardens have been up here for over 80 years, and are sealed off from the public. Don’t worry – you can sneak a peek at them from the Top of the Rock observation deck.

While checking out all the cool sites around New York that have been in our favorite shows or movies, we sometimes forget to soak up that breathtaking skyline. Karen Paige and Ben Urich do a little bit of sightseeing while uncovering Fisk’s plot to take over Hell’s Kitchen at the Greenpoint Docks. We recommend taking a ride on the East River Ferry to get a look at the city from this view to start of your day at the Comic Con.

New York Comic Con


After a full day of sightseeing, autograph seeking and full-blown nerdgasms, the only way to top it off is by heading to Foggy Nelson and Matt Murdock’s favorite watering hole, Josie Bar. The locals in Williamsburg know it as the Turkey’s Nest, a local dive bar on Bedford Ave. for over 35 years. You could get a shot or two of the hard stuff, it’s known for $7 margaritas and beer at low prices.

If you need a little more visual searching for your New York Comic Con experience, try this cool interactive map below.

Traveling the SEC: See Athens, Georgia Bulldogs football in new light

When it comes to experiencing the sheer passion of college football, the University of Georgia is unlike any other. Saturdays in Athens are made for Bulldog football. So what do you need to know about coming to town? We’ve got you covered. 

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Getting there

SEC


The great thing about Athens is that it’s so close to Atlanta, so you can fly into town and just rent a car for the70-mile drive. You could also opt to fly into Charlotte, which is three hours away. Don’t forget you can stay up to date on prices for either airport with little effort with our Price Alerts.

Where to stay
Like many of the SEC schools, UGA is a place where you had better make your hotel reservations way in advance. If you’re looking to stay near campus, then you’ll want to keep an eye on Hilton Garden InnGeorgia Gameday Center and Holiday Inn – University Area – all three of these hotels are within walking distance of campus. But you’re going to find a good deal on hotels all down West Broad Street. 


Things to do

SEC


Athens has a lot of great things to do, but the town has its roots in music history. The Georgia Theatre has been where bands like the B-52s, R.E.M. and Widespread Panic got their start here while many of the founding members studied at the University of Georgia. Kids of all ages will have their fair share of fun at World of Wonder. It’s the largest community playground in the state and has enough mazes, swings, tunnels and bridges to keep anyone busy for hours on end. If you’re looking to relax before you get whipped up into a football frenzy, then you’ll can spend time getting lost in the 313-acre oasis that is the State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Eat, drink & play
Playing is all Athens is about in the night before a game. “This is serious stuff,” Georgia alum Holly Hunt says. “The night before the game, everyone goes ‘downtown’ to the restaurants and bars on Clayton Street to start pre-gaming with other Dawg fans and celebrating the impending victory.  Some popular spots for dinner areAmici's (Best. Wings. Ever), Mellow MushroomThe Grit and Transmetropolitan.  For after dinner drinks you can always find a crowd at Flanagan's [and the Half Moon Pub]Allgood Lounge, and Georgia Theater.” Those looking to close out the need with some grub can do it at the local Waffle House or a local favorite, The Grill.



Gameday pointers



Athens takes on a different persona when gameday rolls around. “The guys are often in red pants and black polos, while the girls are in dresses with all of the red and black accessories they can pile on,” says Hunt. The odds of you running into a guy like in the video above, however, is slim. But don’t worry if you’re in town to cheer on the visitors as they’ll welcome you with proper southern hospitality. There’s loads of free parking at the south end of campus, but you’ll need to get there at 7 a.m. (school rule, folks) in order to tailgate. Holly notes the real tailgating comes to life at the North and East Campuses, and near the Coliseum/Snelling Dining Hall. “There are tents for miles, food for days, and lot of coolers with cold beer and whiskey. The mornings usually involve grabbing a biscuit at Chick-fil-A on the way to campus or if you are the real deal, you make breakfast at the tailgate. Of course, there is also a whiskey and Coke or Miller Light in your hand with a UGA koozie.”


Is there a place that we missed that’s makes Athens perfect for a college football getaway? Let us know in the comments section below. 

Traveling the SEC: Brave “The Swamp,” Gators football in Gainesville

Florida vacations are usually all about fun in the sun. For Florida football fans, trips to the Sunshine State are all about seeing the Gators play at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (better known as “The Swamp) in Gainesville. But there’s a lot more to “G-Ville” than just doing the Gator Chomp in the stands.

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Getting there

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While Gainesville is a great place to watch a college football game, it’s a bit off the beaten path. While you canfly into town, there are no direct flights. We suggest you best travel options are to fly into either Tampa (130 miles) or Orlando (111 miles) and enjoy the drive to UF.

Where to stay
Skyscanner has several great hotels in Gainesville you can stay at for a weekend. Just remember that the hotels close to the stadium (like Holiday Inn – University Center & Gainesville Lodge) tend to fill up in advance game weekends. Luckily, there’s a huge concentration of places to stay just off of I-75 to the west of campus and south of the area on US 441 that you can book as short as a month in advance.


Things to do

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Gainesville really has something for everyone. Want to shop? Head downtown for shops that cover everything from goodies for the kids to vintage clothing and savory destinations like Mark’s Prime. History buffs will enjoy the Dudley Farm Historic State Park to how farming has taken shape over time. Nature lovers and anyone just looking to have a fun time should drive 30 minutes north of Gainesville to Ginnie Springs in the small town of High Springs. Ginnie Springs is a privately owned park on the Santa Fe River, and is perfect for folks looking to lounge around in an inner tube with a cold beer in hand. But just make sure you’re ready to party hard there as it’s a popular spot with students in the area.

Eat, drink & play

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This is a college town, so you know you’re going to find some good food, drinks and fun. Beer aficionados will find paradise in a pint at German restaurant Stubbies & Steins, where they serve everything from Abita Abbey Ale to Zywiec Porter. Those looking to do a little drinking and dancing will want to hit up Simon’s Nightclub. And for those that partied a little too hard the night before can get killer ribs and a proper breakfast to cure any hangover at David’s BBQ.

Gameday pointers
If you’re planning on parking at the stadium, get there early – way early. Traffic gets very heavy in town around 10 in the morning. Parking gets pricy right next to “The Swamp,” so think about parking at a house in neighborhoods north of University Avenue. They usually charge anywhere from $10 to $30 to park, but usually come with an added bonus of partying with the folks that live where you park. And if you decide to have an adult beverage or five, just stay in the parking/tailgating area. Stories are prevalent about the local police ticketing folks that step into the street with an open container. 


Do you have something you love to do at Florida football games that we missed? Sound off in the comments section.

10 New York attractions you can’t afford to miss

New York City is one of the greatest cities on the planet, with incredible attractions to see and experience that are unique to the city. Let’s take a look at the best attractions to see while vacationing in the Big Apple

New York


1. Broadway

Barrymore Theatre


Home to a plethora of plays the entire year round, Broadway provides entertainment for all in the family. Whether coming to see The Lion KingThe Phantom of the Opera, or The Book of Mormon, the options abound in the little area in Manhattan known for having some of the biggest stars performing in front of live studio audiences. 


2. Empire State Building

Empire State Building


Offering amazing views of the city, the Empire State Building is an iconic landmark on the island of Manhattan. On any given day the location is visited by thousands of tourists, and it’s for a good reason: there is simply no other building in the city that allows you to fully take in all of New York.  


3. Chelsea Piers

Chelsea Piers


Home to fun and games and food, Chelsea Piers is a fun escape for locals and tourists alike. Taking a cruise from the Pier around Manhattan is an absolute must! Pro tip: make sure to pack a light jacket when on the cruise, as temperatures are much lower on the water! 


4. Long Island

Long Island


Long Island is a solid 3 hour drive from end to end, and offers a serene respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Escaping for a day trip is highly recommended, as quiet beaches and beautiful towns are located throughout the island.


5. Central Park

Central Park


Right in the heart of Manhattan is one of the most beautiful parks in the world: Central Park. A horse drawn carriage ride offers a romantic tour of the park, and in the winter the beauty of the snow covered grass against the backdrop of the city is a sight to behold.

6. Times Square

Times Square


Full of tourists and buskers alike, Times Square is a unique New York experience that all travelers must see for themselves. Make sure to recreate your own iconic photograph, or enjoy a nice lunch on the steps of the TKTS booth (which also offers great discounts on show tickets!). And there are plenty of cool hotels to stay in the area that keep you in the middle of the action.


7. Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty


Gifted to the United States by the French, the Statue of Liberty is a massive and beautiful edifice that has recently been reopened to the public. Its size is something to behold, and the lawn around the statue offers some of the best picnic views in New York.


8. The High Line

The High Line


This elevated, urban park is located on the west side of Manhattan, and is quintessential New York City. Formerly an elevated railway location, the High Line is now home to community farmer’s markets, artists, and much more. The other park in New York City, High Line is a hidden gem for tourists and locals alike! 


9. 9/11 Memorial Museum and Plaza

9/11 Memorial Museum and Plaza


Paying tribute to the thousands that lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks, the 9/11 Memorial Museum and Plazawas opened in May 2013 and has drawn over 500,000 visitors in its first 7 weeks. Though sobering and heartbreaking, the 9/11 Memorial Museum and Plaza is a testament to the fortitude of both New Yorkers and the American people, and should be on every visitor to the city’s itinerary. 


10. Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall


Home to the world famous Rockettes, Radio City Music Hall is a classic art deco theater that transforms every winter for the Christmas Spectacular, an iconic New York City event. Be sure to go on a guided tour to see all that happens behind the scenes at Radio City Music Hall! 


Is there a place you can’t miss when visiting New York City? Let us know in the comments section.

8 inappropriate places around the world to take selfies

There’s been some backlash against a teenager that took a selfie as she toured the Auschwitz concentration camp. We've even seen NBA players taking questionable selfies. While people love the instant gratification social media provides, here are some places where selfies should be avoided.

selfies


1. Auschwitz - Poland

Auschwitz


In the pantheon of bad ideas for selfies, Auschwitz is going to be at the top of the list. This concentration camp is a living part of history, providing stark reminders of what man can do to fellow man. While there are many photo opportunities in this destination in Poland, a self-portrait isn’t one of them.


2. El Valle de los Caídos – Madrid, Spain

El Valle de los Caídos


There’s more than enough things to see in Madrid. Yet many tourists find themselves going just outside the cityto see the “Valley of the Fallen.” There’s no doubting the beauty of the building situated in the Sierra de Guadarrama. But the real issues for many of the Spanish population is that many folks – some of them fascists paying homage – come to see General Francisco Franco’s tomb inside this Catholic basilica. So you could probably imagine how some people might look at you as you take a selfie with his final resting place.



3. USS Arizona Memorial – Honolulu, Hawaii

USS Arizona Memorial


The attacks on Pearl Harbor by Japanese imperial forces are commemorated at the site of where the USS Arizona sunk on December 7, 1941. It’s a must for anyone travelling to Honolulu for the fact that you’ll actually see the wreckage directly underneath. A wreckage that still leaks between 2-9 quarts of oil each day. There’s a solemn silence about the place that really has no room for someone to take a picture that could get them trolled mercilessly.



4. Vietnam Veterans Memorial – Washington, D.C.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial


The Vietnam War was a divisive topic amongst Americans for many decades. And that division held true when Maya Lin unveiled the simple, yet elegant design in 1981. But that’s changed over the years with over 3 million visitors annually coming to the memorial. It’s a place that encourage photos of the names en masse. Even “rubbing” a name with a pencil on a piece of paper is fine. But many could see how taking a selfie with a name – even a name of a family member – could be considered poor judgment.



5. Anne Frank House – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Anne Frank House


The secret home of Anne Frank and her family is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Amsterdam. Knowing how someone could live in hiding from the Nazis for the better part of two years is incredible.  There’s a statue of a little girl in front of the home that’s quite popular for photo ops. But you can see some people making… uh, interesting… choices on taking a photo. Still, that’s a little better than having Justin Bieber write something profoundly dumb in a guestbook.




6. Mussolini’s Crypt – Predappio, Italy

Mussolini’s Crypt


There’s more than enough great things to see and do in the whole of Italy. Yet there are tens of thousands of tourists that come to central Italian town of Predappio on a consistent basis. Why? It’s the hometown of former Fascist dictator Benito Mussolini. Despite the best efforts of the government, between 80,000 and 100,000 still come to see Mussolini’s crypt. Selfies are still taken with his bust in the background, but you can’t get souvenirs of “Duce” since the sale of fascist souvenirs was outlawed in 2009.



7. Killing Fields – Choeung Ek, Cambodia

Killing Fields


The fact that the Khmer Rouge ruled over Cambodia during the late 1970s is upsetting. The fact Pol Pot survived that and still lived until 1998 leaves me gobsmacked. One of the most enduring areas of that time is the Killing Fields. Choeung Ek, just outside of Phnom Penh, remains the best known of the mass graves with many bodies still buried there today. And while there is a wonderfully peaceful Buddhist memorial at the location, it isn’t really the place to make your mark on Twitter.



8. Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe – Berlin, Germany

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe


There’s no gray area in the name of this memorial, nor should there be. The 2,711 concrete slabs in a grid pattern gives the feel of a cemetery. It’s a place of reflection and not your typical memorial within the city limits of Berlin. And certainly a place to give pause before taking any photographs.