Highest tide in 20 years floods historic Venice

Venice could use a bailout. The city built on water has too much of it. Residents and tourists waded through knee-deep water Monday as they navigated the city’s narrow streets and alleys, and its historic St. Mark’s Square was inundated. Boxes of tourist merchandise floated inside the flooded shops around the square and even the city’s famed pigeons sought refuge on rooftops and windowsills. One... [Read more]

Wanted: Safe US city with 20,000 hotel rooms

Are you a U.S. city or resort with 20,000 hotel rooms, an international airport and a full complement of riot police? Looking to raise your profile? Willing to pay for the privilege? If so, and especially if you have ties to Asia, Uncle Sam wants you. The State Department is seeking a venue for a massive, nine-day conference of Pacific Rim leaders, dignitaries and business executives to be held in... [Read more]

Bringing sexy back, with $1B: Miami hotel reborn

It takes a lot to impress here, a place where magazine models shop and $100,000 cars creep by without a batted eye. But there are exceptions, and in the 1950s and 60s the only one that mattered was the Fontainebleau hotel. Blending five-star luxury with chic, progressive style, it was where Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack stayed and played, where James Bond beat Goldfinger in a game of... [Read more]

12 days of Christmas freebies in Indianapolis

Indianapolis-area attractions are offering free admission and other freebies, one each day, during the 12 days leading up to Christmas. On Saturday, Dec. 13, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum offers free admission to its collection of trophies and cars. On Sunday, Dec. 14, the President Benjamin Harrison Home shows off holiday decorations at the 1875 Italianate mansion, including... [Read more]

7 Legendary Surf Towns

Follow the surf-board-toting crowd to find a great vibe and plenty of sun, sand, and good eats. BRAZIL Fernando de Noronha This island 225 miles off the northeast coast of Brazil is as pristine as they come, and it’s determined to stay that way—visitors have to pay an environmental preservation tax (TPA) of $20 per day. But the surfing, diving, and snorkeling are so good, and the scenery is... [Read more]