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Is Mallika Sherawat the reason behind Antonio Banderas' divorce rumour?

2012-07-26T03:15:00.004-07:00

This picture of Mallika Sherawat dirty dancing with Hollywood star Antonio Banderas at the Cannes Film Festival was about the only exciting moment from the normally provocative Hisss actress. At the time, we remarked on how she cut an unusually covered up and sophisticated figure on the Croisette.

But it now emerges that Mallika's close encounter with Zorro may have had repercussions - on his 15 year marriage to actress Melanie Griffith. Divorce rumours have suddenly surfaced and fingers have been pointed at Mallika.

The flurry of rumours also have Mallika accepting an invite from Antonio to visit him in Spain, as well as in Paris.

Gossip says the actress is heading to France to keep her Parisian date with the tall, dark, handsome not-a-stranger, and that he even bought her a diamond pendant. To be fair, it's not all Mallika - Antonio has also been photographed getting cosy with a "mystery blonde."

Meanwhile, People magazine reports that Antonio and Melanie are "absolutely fine," even though 54-year-old Melanie went on holiday alone to Hawaii last week and has also been spotted out and about minus her wedding ring.

Batman shooter reportedly wants to know how the film ends

2012-07-26T03:14:00.004-07:00

The man accused of killing a dozen people at a Colorado screening of The Dark Knight Riseswants to know how the film ends, a stunned jail worker reportedly told media.

James Holmes, 24, "was trying to look like he was sincerely curious," a person who witnessed the bizarre incident in the jail's infirmary on July 24 told the New York Daily News.

"Like he had no idea why there was anything wrong with what he was saying. It was sick ... I think he's trying real hard to act crazy."

His eyes glazed and his voice flat, Holmes reportedly asked a jail worker "Did you see the movie?" and then "How does it end?"

He repeated the question when the worker ignored him.

"If he said that to me, it would have been real hard to resist smacking him," the unnamed witness told the paper.

Another disturbing report surfaced today that Holmes mailed a notebook "full of details about how he was going to kill people" to a University of Colorado psychiatrist before the attack, but the parcel sat unopened in a mail room. The spiral-bound notebook was discovered on Monday after the psychiatrist received a package he feared had come from Holmes and police searched the mail room for suspicious packages, FoxNews.com reported.

"There were drawings of what he was going to do in it -- drawings and illustrations of the massacre," an unnamed law enforcement source told the website.

Among the drawings were gun-wielding stick figures blowing away other stick figures.

It's not clear how long the package was in the mailroom, or why it wasn't delivered and discovered prior to Friday's massacre. One source told FoxNews it had been in the mailroom since July 12 but a second source said they were unable to confirm that the package had arrived prior to the massacre.

Holmes, who is accused of shooting dead 12 people and wounding 58 others at a cinema in Aurora, outside Denver, is being held in solitary confinement in the Arapahoe County Detention Center.

He was moved to the infirmary for his own protection yesterday, the Daily News reported, and was fitted with a black plastic face guard to stop him from spitting on guards.

He has also been outfitted with ankle shackles and a bulletproof vest. He was moved to the infirmary yesterday for his own protection, sources told The News.

The graduate school dropout appeared dazed and disoriented at his first court appearance Monday. He could face the death penalty upon conviction if unable to prove he is mentally incompetent.

Mrs 007 Rachel Weisz trusts husband Daniel Craig around women

2012-07-26T03:12:00.002-07:00

Rachel Weisz trusts her husband Daniel Craig around women.

The 42-year-old actress, who fell for James Bond star Daniel on the sets of Dream House in 2011, says she doesn't get jealous of her husband's on-screen romances with Bond Girls and has a relaxed approach to acting.

Rachel Weisz told the British edition of Marie Claire magazine: "It's just make-believe. It's a strange job in that way for sure. We don't sit around talking about acting but you both understand you've got to be flexible. Every few months you start a new job."

The couple married in June 2011 and have two children between them, although The Bourne Legacy star Rachel insists it wasn't love at first sight.

She revealed: "It wasn't really like that. We'd been friends for ages."

The brunette beauty - who has six-year-old Henry with ex-partner Darren Aronofsky - also admitted that she hasn't ruled out having another child with Daniel Craig in the future.

Rachel Weisz said: "I'm pretty content. I'm not planning on having more, but never say never."

Did Kristen Stewart cheat on Robert Pattinson with Snow White director?

2012-07-25T16:27:00.003-07:00

Kristen Stewart reportedly had a fling with her Snow White and the Huntsman director, Rupert Sanders.

Kristen attended the Teen Choice Awards with her Twilight costar and real-life boyfriend Robert Pattinson just two days ago, however an American magazine cover alleges she strayed away from the relationship.

Us Weekly magazine has plastered a photograph of her and Rupert on its cover that would indicate the two had a romantic relationship.

Meanwhile, a source told People magazine: "Kristen is absolutely devastated. It was a mistake and a complete lapse in judgment."

Reps for neither Kristen, Rob nor Rupert have commented on or moved to clarify what went down, including the possibility of whether this is all one big misunderstanding.

They added: "He feels like they are both on the same level and they understand one another. He worships her. He doesn't think there is another woman on the planet who is as beautiful and kind as her. He wants to be with her 24/7, he wants to marry her... as far as he is concerned, Kristen is his perfect match ... Kristen is perfect to him. That's why he's always known that someday she would be his wife."

Rupert is married to 33-year-old model, Liberty Ross - who also starred in Snow White as Queen Eleanor. They have two young children, Skyla and Tennyson, together.

Liam Hemsworth says fiancee Miley Cyrus is his ideal woman

2012-07-25T16:26:00.000-07:00

Liam Hemsworth says fiancee Miley Cyrus is his ideal woman.

The Hunger Games actor recently proposed to the former Hannah Montana star and he knows she is the right person for him because she makes him laugh and he feels totally relaxed around her.
Liam Hemsworth says fiancee Miley Cyrus is his ideal woman.

The Hunger Games actor recently proposed to the former Hannah Montana star and he knows she is the right person for him because she makes him laugh and he feels totally relaxed around her.

When asked to describe his ideal woman, Liam said: "My fiancee. She's extremely happy and has a sense of humour about life. And she has taught me you can step back and not take everything so seriously. Happy, positive, fun - those qualities are good in anyone."

Liam, 22, also says 19-year-old Miley is very cool when it comes to his fashion choices and would never tell him what to wear.

He told America's InStyle magazine: "She doesn't care. My style is very inconsistent. One day, I'll put together a cool outfit, and the next, I'll look like a homeless person."

Miley recently revealed how she loves being engaged, writing on her twitter page: "I love being a 'fiancee."

Previous to that the singer-and-actress had written on the micro-blogging website: "Will I ever quit staring at my finger?"
When asked to describe his ideal woman, Liam said: "My fiancee. She's extremely happy and has a sense of humour about life. And she has taught me you can step back and not take everything so seriously. Happy, positive, fun - those qualities are good in anyone."

Liam, 22, also says 19-year-old Miley is very cool when it comes to his fashion choices and would never tell him what to wear.

He told America's InStyle magazine: "She doesn't care. My style is very inconsistent. One day, I'll put together a cool outfit, and the next, I'll look like a homeless person."

Miley recently revealed how she loves being engaged, writing on her twitter page: "I love being a 'fiancee."

Previous to that the singer-and-actress had written on the micro-blogging website: "Will I ever quit staring at my finger?"

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie invited to an Olympics party on a yacht

2012-07-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen is throwing a lavish bash on his vessel, which is moored in Canary Wharf, east London, for the duration of the games, with the Hollywood couple - who are currently based in the UK while the actress films Maleficent -topping the guest list.

A source told The Sun newspaper: "Paul's party is going to be amazing.

"Some big names have been invited but Brad and Ange are easily the most glamorous."

Microsoft's Bill Gates is also expected to attend.

Tonight (25.07.12), Brad and Angelina are hosting their own Olympic opening ceremony party at London's Victoria & Albert Museum.

Princes William and Harry have been invited to the charity fundraiser, which is being held in honour of boxing legend Muhammad Ali.

David and Victoria Beckham, Sharon Stone, Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones are also expected to attend.

They will be raising funds for the Sports For Peace initiative with a black tie champagne reception before a four-course banquet dinner.

A source said: "It's going to be an Olympics-themed party, with huge buckets of home-made cocktails on offer. "The who's who of British and American celebrity will be in attendance, and invitees have been ordered not to take any photos from their phones."

When the extravaganza finishes at 10pm, the couple will host an exclusive after party at their rented £20 million townhouse.

A source said recently: "Forget the official opening ceremony; this is the party to be at.

"Angelina is on official work duty but Brad is ensuring fun will be had after hours, and is very hands-on organising the booze-fuelled house party after."

Tara Reid spotted in a nightclub just days after she was hospitalised

2012-07-25T16:23:00.002-07:00

The American Pie beauty was admitted to hospital with food poisoning while on holiday in Nice, France, last week, but she was seen smoking cigarettes out and about in Saint-Tropez on Monday (23.07.12).

Tara was spotted sunning herself in the South of France hot spot yesterday (24.07.12), where she spent time on the beach and enjoyed a speedboat ride, and the 36-year-old blonde took to her twitter account to post a picture of herself feeling "happy and healthy" to reassure fans she is OK.

As well as suffering from food poisoning, Tara - who was initially thought to have been taken ill with acute pancreatitis - also hurt her back on a jet ski and had to have an X-ray at hospital, but over the weekend she informed her 118,000 twitter followers that she is recovering "fine".

Sage Stallone's cause of death listed as "deferred" on death certificate

2012-07-25T16:20:00.002-07:00

Sage Stallone's cause of death has been listed as "deferred" on his death certificate.

The 36-year-old son of Sylvester Stallone and his first wife Sasha Czack was found unresponsive on July 13 at his Studio City apartment in Los Angeles and an investigation by the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office is still ongoing.

An initial autopsy on Sage's body proved inconclusive and the cause of his death is not expected to be known for up to two months until the toxicology tests are completed.

According to E! Online, the death certificate also stated he had completed "some college" and worked as a "filmmaker" for the past 22 years.

Following Sage's tragic passing, Sylvester, 66, spoke out about his loss.

He said: "When a parent loses a child there is no greater pain. Therefore I am imploring people to respect my talented son's memory and feel compassion for his loving mother Sasha."

He also "begged" for the memory and soul of Sage - who played the actor's onscreen son in 1990 movie 'Rocky V' - to be "left in peace" amid speculation of how he died.

He added: "This loss will be felt for the rest of our lives. Sage was our first child and the centre of our universe and I am humbly begging for all to have my son's memory and soul left in peace.

Demi Moore is "beyond heartbroken" over Ashton-Mila romance....

2012-07-25T16:16:00.002-07:00

Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher ended their marriage last year following allegations that Ashton Kutcher had been cheating on her with a number of women, but after pictures surfaced of the Two And A Half Men actor kissing new love Mila Kunis, Demi Moore, 49, reportedly became hysterical.

A source told RadarOnline: "Demi is devastated that Ashton has moved on so quickly and is dating Mila. She is beyond heartbroken. Even though Ashton cheated on her all the time, it was with random girls, it wasn't a relationship like it is with Mila and that is what is killing Demi now. Seeing photos of him kissing another woman is too much for her to handle, it's like having her nose rubbed in it time and time again. She kind of knew it was definitely over between them but I think she was still holding out a little hope for a reconciliation - now he's actually dating someone else she knows that's not going to happen."

Ashton Kutcher, 34, and 28-year-old Mila Kunis have been friends since working on That 70s Showtogether and their relationship is said to be "like a knife" in Demi Moore's heart.

The source added: "Each time Demi hears about Ashton and Mila it breaks her heart. She really loved him despite the flaws in their marriage and to see him dating someone new, who is so much younger than she is, is like a knife in her heart."

6 Supercars From Around The World

2012-07-25T08:25:00.003-07:00

1.Koenigsegg Agera R

Base price: $1.5 million

You've heard of Lamborghini and Ferrari. You've even heard of even heard of Lamborghini's seven-figure cousin, the Bugatti. (Both are part of the Volkswagen Group.)

But, for those looking for something their neighbors don't already have, there are a number of lesser known supercar makers out there peddling products that are even more exotic.

Swedish automaker Kooenigsegg, for instance, offers the Agera R, a car that squeezes 1,140 horsepower out of a 5.0-liter twin-turbo V8.

Koenigsegg only produces about 15 cars a year. For regulatory reasons, the Agera R may not continue to be sold in the U.S. after this year but buyers can still get one if they order soon, according to Koenigsegg.

2.Pagani Huayra

Base price: $1.1 million

The Huayra, pronounced "why-rah," is named after the ancient Andean wind god Aymara Huayra Tata. It's powered by a 6-liter twin-turbocharged 12-cylinder engine produced by the AMG division of Mercedes-Benz. Much of the car's structure, particularly the area around the driver, is made from a strong, lightweight and very expensive material called carbon-titanium

Based in Italy, Pagani's entry into the United States was delayed by a regulatory squabble over the car's airbags. That issue has been worked out and cars will be delivered here next year, said Brett David of Prestige Imports, which sells Paganis in South Florida.

3.Zenvo ST1 50S

Base price: $1.8 million

It is highly unlikely, to put it mildly, that you will ever see a Zenvo ST1 50S on the streets. Only three will be made for the United States, for a total of 15 cars worldwide.

The Danish-built 50S is designed specifically for the United States and it's slightly different from the 12 other ST1's that will sold in other parts of the world.

One 50S has been bought in the United States. But it was immediately shipped off to China, said Bobby Kahn New Jersey's Empirio Motor Group, Zenvo's sole U.S. dealer.

4.McLaren MP4-12C Spider

Base price: $265,750

The McLaren isn't quite in the same league as other cars in this gallery. It's much lower in price and horsepower than the others and produced in higher volumes. In any other, context, however, this would be a fast, rare, and expensive car.

The McLaren MP4 is powered by a rather small 3.8-liter V8 producing "just" 592 horsepower. McLaren expects to sell as many as 600 cars a year in the U.S, including both the coupe and the drop-top Spider, shown here.

McLaren's goal was never to produce an outrageously expensive and intimidating supercar but an "ultimate sports car" that could be comfortably driven on a daily basis.

5.Hennessey Venom GT

Base price: $1.1 million

Texas-based Hennessey Performance is a company that specializes in "making fast cars faster," according to the company's motto.

Most of the cars Hennessey sells are highly modified versions of well-known cars such as the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. The idea for the Venom GT came as company founder John Hennessey wondered what to do to top his ultra-high performance version of the Dodge Viper, a car that was already faster than a Bugatti Veyron.

The 1,244 horsepower Venom GT's body is taken from the Lotus Exige. Beyond that not much remains of the donor car. The 7.0-liter V8 engine, transmission and cooling are pretty much all new, according to Hennessey.

6.Shelby GT40

Base price: About $170,000

You've probably heard of the Ford GT sports car, which was produced for only the 2005 and 2006 model years. You may also have of the Ford GT40 racecar it was based on, which raced and won -- a lot -- in the early 1960s.

This is the Shelby GT40 built by Shelby American Inc. Carroll Shelby helped create the original GT40 and the Shelby GT40 is a faithful reproduction. Over two thirds of the parts in this car are interchangeable with an original Ford GT40 racecar.

The Shelby GT40 stays close to its racecar heritage. That means it doesn't come with airbags, or stability control, or anti-lock brakes, or basically any of the standard safety equipment required on modern cars.

8 Things Boring About Windows 8

2012-07-25T08:22:00.003-07:00

1. Bring on the Advertisements

Because Windows 8 comes on the back of a bird with the word “apps” spray-painted on its side, you’ll find that Microsoft does plenty to integrate its virtual storefronts into the OS at any cost – go figure. We’d expect nothing less from Redmond, or Apple, or Google. But here’s the kicker: Microsoft’s implementation is just downright ugly.

Case in point? The Video app. Not only does this thing struggle to play videos that Media Player itself can handle (why the app doesn’t correctly integrate your system’s codecs, we’ll never know), but the first thing you see upon launching it is not a gallery of your videos, or a top-20 list of local videos you’ve watched, or anything like that. No, you get a spotlight of all the quote-unquote awesome content you can purchase from Microsoft directly – your videos require you to scroll a full screen’s width to the right just to access, and all you get is a big box for the video you’ve most recently played and a “show more” button that lets you check out other videos in your User folder.

2. Where the Heck Am I?

Since Windows 8 is like Windows 7 with a fancy new tablet design bolted onto the side (we’ll get to that later), Microsoft has done an amazing job of splitting important content and options between the two different environments. And by amazing, we mean not-so-amazing.

For example, your standard Control Panel sits in what we’ll call the “Windows Classic” environment – same ol’ Control Panel you should be used to using by now. You can jump to the main Control Panel shortcut from Metro, but not its individual components. Similarly, you can’t use the Control Panel to edit the individual settings found within Metro – that requires you to go to Metro’s PC settings application, which can be found quasi-buried in Metro’s general Settings sidebar.

Got it?

3. Strapping a Bomb to a Monkey

We brought it up, so we might as well finish the thought. The Windows Metro UI could not feel any more like its own operating environment that’s been strapped, rather crudely, onto the back of Windows 7.

Sure, there are a few cosmetic upgrades to the classic desktop – many we like, in fact. That doesn’t remove the disjointing effect of having to constantly shift your focus between a svelte, common experience and a graphical monstrosity. From clearly understood data and organization to pictures! Huge, pretty pictures with small amounts of text and lots of square graphics! From the good ol’ Windows we’ve come to love over the years – one you can truly navigate with just the click of a mouse – to a storm of giant panels that can’t be closed or minimized unless you start mashing your keyboard or start dragging your content all around your pretty solid-color display. From awesome and easy file management in Windows Explorer to… whatever the heck you consider the process of selecting files within, say and SkyDrive .

4. Pooping on the Power User

We, at Maximum PC, love the ability to tweak, customize, and control our gadgets, hardware, and software however we see fit. It’s the Maximum PC way. What isn’t the Maximum PC way, however, is Windows 8’s Metro UI.

Is it really that hard, Microsoft, to allow advanced customization within your smorgasbord of squares? Sure, you can make some tiles take up two horizontal spaces, and you can shrink some of these larger tiles back to a single tile’s worth of space. And yes, you can grab tiles and slap them into new columns – yippee! – but that’s about it.

You know what would have been amazing and incredible to see in the Metro UI? At least the same level of customization that one could find on (or hack into) one’s smartphone.

Why not give users the option to set their tiles to any square size they want? If Metro is supposed to be a tablet interface, why can’t you mash multiple tiles onto a single “group” tile that expands when clicked or tapped on? Why do some tiles carry live information, but tiles that should display data or act as visual hotspots in theory (like, say, the tile for your Video app, or Messaging app) just exist as naked icons?

Why can’t you select and shuffle around multiple tiles at once? Why can’t you use a gesture to “paint” tiles to select them, instead of having to right-click everything? Why do Metro windows only scroll horizontally? Why can’t you edit the color, title, or icon of individual tiles? Why can’t you quick-launch into applications from your lock screen (what good is a mere icon), or highlight over these icons for a quick look at whatever new tidbits might be lurking within your OS?

Why, why, why?

5. Let Users Dictate Services

It’s great and all that Microsoft has made an attempt to integrate third-party services directly into Windows 8 – in fact, the feature (found in both the People and Messaging apps, to name a few) made our list of “8 Things We Love About Windows 8.”

What we don’t love, however, is the fact that Microsoft’s the one dictating which services get invited to the Windows 8 party and which are left sad and alone at home. We envision a future where we can only use Windows 8 to manage a handful of social networks and instead have to use Internet Explorer – or, more likely, a browser that isn’t horrible – to catch our friends elsewhere. Or perhaps some other third-party apps: You’re not going to find your Steam contacts within Windows 8’s contact list, nor your AIM, Yahoo, or Google Chat friends within Messaging (as of right now within the Consumer Preview), etc .

6. Why Break What Worked Great?

“The reasonable man adapts himself to the world: the unreasonable one persists to adapt the world to himself.” – George Bernard Shaw

Or, to say it another way, there’s no need to fix that which wasn’t broken. Worse, that which Windows users were familiar with (and fond of) based on their experiences with operating system’s many versions over the last many years.

Here’s a “brief” list of things we miss, having made the (temporary) switch to Windows 8:

Closing apps without always having to use our keyboard (Metro).
Being able to run more than one app or window on a screen at a time (Metro) – and, no, pinning an app to a one-third sidebar doesn’t count.
How our keyboard’s Windows Key used to pull up a handy list of applications and other shortcuts (Start Menu) instead of just opening up a portal between two diametric interfaces (Metro).
When operating systems were more about delivering data and information to the user (Desktop mode) than graphics and pizazz (Metro).
Being able to quickly see all the programs that we’re running by glancing at our desktop (Desktop mode) versus having to perform semi-precise actions to reveal what our operating system is doing (Switch List).
Being able to scroll over thumbnails and click to access content – thumbnails now disappear on Metro’s hot corners when you try to do what you’ve previously done for so very, very long.
Having applications that scrolled vertically instead of horizontally (Metro), which often leads to more wasted white space that could otherwise be filled with useful data.
Being able to use our mouse wheel to scroll vertically (Metro), and the consistency of knowing that down was always down, not right (Metro), and up was always up, not left (Metro).
Normal font sizes instead of giant, header-like text everywhere.
When a PC’s operating system was designed for a PC, not a tablet.
Being able to log onto our systems without having to “unveil” the damn password box, the digital equivalent of a sweeping bow and a trumpet fanfare.

7. Puff up the Cloud

Now that Microsoft is playing in the cloud – giving users the ability to transfer their files and settings across any Windows 8 systems they log into with their Microsoft Account – it’s time for Microsoft to up the ante when it comes to the security options it offers its accountholders.

We’d love to see at least some information on the Microsoft Account website to indicate which systems a person has logged in on using his or her Microsoft Account – better still, some way to block that login from being accepted on a particular PC if you don’t want that system or its user to have access to you any longer. Cooler still would be some kind of two-way authentication factored into Microsoft’s login process (we know, we know; more security steps) to ensure that even an attacker with physical access to your system and all your credentials will still have a heck of a time breaking into your Window 8 account.

8. No Obvious Reason to Upgrade

We touched on it in the intro, but we’ll etch it in stone in our final point: Windows 8 presents no compelling reason for a user to upgrade, period. If it seems as though we spent a lot of time critiquing the look and feel of Windows’ new interface, and for good reason: At the end of a day of Windows 8, that’s all you’re left with. Minus a few fun features here and there (Storage Space, File History, Shutdown Hibernation, et cetera), there’s little more than window dressing to inspire users to flock to their local Microsoft stores upon Window 8’s final release. Windows 8 is, for lack of a better word, a new makeup kit for Windows 7.

Touchscreen systems aside – you’re really going to want Windows 8, given that Metro was made for you – the quote unquote improvements built into Windows 8’s Metro apps definitely appearpretty. And there’s no question that the future, full-screen Metro treatment of third-party apps like Facebook, or Twitter, or Angry Birds will surely be something to see. But we don’t think that cosmetic trumps functionality in every occurrence: A huge-font Twitter app with one user profile per screen swipe pales in comparison to what you get from the best Twitter apps already available on Windows 7 today, for example.

Firefox 15 Beta Goes Gold on August 2012

2012-07-25T08:20:00.002-07:00

Just three days after Mozilla released the final version of Firefox 14 to the general public, the browser maker announced that Firefox 15 is available to download in beta form. With Mozilla's rapid release schedule in place, you won't have to wait long for the new build to go gold. Just over a month, in fact, assuming Firefox 15 is released on August 28, 2012 as currently scheduled. Should you wait for the final build to upgrade?

For most people, the answer is yes. A side effect of these rapid fire browser releases is that groundbreaking changes are few and far between. According to the release notes, Firefox brings just three new features to the table for general users, including:

Preliminary native PDF support (Aurora/Beta only)
Support for SPDY networking protocol v3
WebGL enhancements, including compressed textures for better performance

Also included in Firefox 15 is optimized memory usage for add-ons. Beyond that, everything else that's new or changed is aimed at developers, like integrating a JavaScript debugger into developer tools and adding native support for the Opus audio codec. If those don't excite you, neither should Firefox 15.

Samsung disables Galaxy S3

2012-07-25T08:19:00.004-07:00

Samsung has disabled an advanced search function in an update to the international version of its flagship Galaxy S3 smartphone, following a patent dispute with Apple.

Once the software is installed the phones no longer search contacts, apps and other on-device material using software developed by Google.

Android Central, which revealed the news, noted that users were not told the update would disable the service.

It follows a similar move in the US.

Apple claims the innovation infringes its patent to a single search interface which it uses in its Siri app to collate results from a range of sources.

The iPhone maker had already managed to enforce a brief sales ban on another Samsung handset - the Galaxy Nexus - in the US because of the patent.

That dispute will be considered again by a Washington-based court on 20 August - but whatever the ruling, it would not have applied to the GT-i9300 (S3) model sold in the UK and other places outside the US.

A spokeswoman for Samsung was unable to provide more detail.

"Samsung may be doing this as a precautionary measure to prevent it having to pay damages on devices sold outside the US in case Apple prevails in the States and then pursues a similar suit elsewhere," said Simon Clark, head of intellectual property at law firm Berwin Leighton Paisner.

"Generally speaking a multinational company like Apple will have patent protection in all its key countries, and the wording will be very similar in each area. Although patent law can vary across territories it's quite likely that a ruling in one country will lead to similar decisions in others."

California clash

The move marks the latest development in a long string of lawsuits between the two firms over the technologies and designs of their mobile devices.

Apple was defeated in a London court earlier this month when it tried to have Samsung's Galaxy Tab tablets banned in the UK after it failed to convince a judge that the South Korean firm had copied the look of its iPad.

The California-based company was ordered to publish the fact that its competitor had not infringed its registered design on its website and in magazines as a consequence.

However, it was more successful in Germany on Tuesday when an appeals court in Dusseldorf extended a preliminary injunction against Samsung's Galaxy Tab 7.7 across the EU because of a related claim.

The two firms are set to clash again in the US on Monday when a jury will hear patent infringement suits filed by both companies against the other.

According to a court filing posted on the Foss Patents blog, Apple is seeking $2.5bn (£1.6bn) in lost profits and royalty fees but is offering a fraction of that amount - half a cent in damages for each handset it has sold that uses its rival's technologies - to settle Samsung's countersuit.

Samsung later responded with its own filing, alleging that Apple was trying "to stifle legitimate competition and limit consumer choice to maintain its historically exorbitant profits".

iPhone 5 Speculation Drives Apple Earnings Down

2012-07-24T17:24:00.002-07:00

Apple's third quarter earnings, released this afternoon, were below analysts' predictions.

While the quarter is usually one of the slower ones for the tech giant, Apple CEO Tim Cook and CFO Peter Oppenheimer admitted that speculation surrounding the next iPhone -- what many are calling thei Phone 5 -- has affected sales of current iPhones.

Apple said it sold 26 million iPhones, down from 35.1 million in the previous quarter. Presumably, people put off purchases of phones, waiting for a newer model.

"We're reading the same speculation about a new iPhone as you are, and we think this has caused some delay in purchasing," Oppenheimer said.

Of course he was referring to the flood of rumors about the next iPhone, including the ones that say the next version will have a larger and thinner display, a new dock connector, and a faster processor and graphics.

The topic of the rumors came up numerous times on the earnings call with analysts. But no matter how hard analysts pushed, Cook and Oppenheimer would not talk about their product plans for the remainder of the year.

Oppenheimer added later in the call, "The fall transition is driving most of the decline in gross margin, it's not something we are going to talk about in any level of detail."

When Cook was asked about a new feature of iOS 6 called Passbook, which puts all tickets or coupons into one app, he wouldn't elaborate on what Apple might do down the road.

"We try very hard to keep our product roadmap secret and confidential. We go to extreme activities to try and do that," Cook said. "That, however, doesn't stop people from speculating and wondering."

In May, Cook said he was planning to "double down on secrecy" on products, but he conceded it won't stop the speculation.

"I'm glad that people want the next thing, I am super happy about it. I am not going to put energy into getting people to stop speculating, that's not going to amount to anything," Cook said.

Apple is also rumored to be planning a smaller version of its iPad before the year is up, which would compete with Google's recently-announced Nexus 7. Cook wouldn't comment on that and mentioned the $399 version of the iPad 2.

"I think most customers feel that they are not looking for a tablet, they are looking for an iPad," Cook said. "We are going to keep innovating in the space and make new products."

Again, he wouldn't elaborate on those products, which ultimately hit the company's bottom line this past quarter, but he was clear about how Apple intends to keep making those products.

"Our North Star is to maniacally focus on making the world's best products," Cook said. He repeated that word "maniacally" twice during the call.

Villas-Boas seeks end to Modric saga

2012-07-24T17:16:00.004-07:00

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas on Tuesday said he is hoping for a swift resolution over the future of midfielder Luka Modric after revealing that the player had returned to training.

Villas-Boas also confirmed the club had taken action against Modric who returned to training Monday while the first team tours the United States for a series of matches against MLS teams.

Modric has been fined for missing training amid speculation of a move away, with Real Madrid thought to be the leading candidate for the midfielder's signature.

A statement on the club's official website said: "The club can confirm Luka Modric has returned to training today (Monday) at Spurs Lodge. The coaching staff will now determine the remainder of his pre-season preparation."

Modric has expressed his desire to leave the north London club this summer. He claims to have spurned offers last season from Chelsea, then managed by current Spurs boss Villas-Boas.

Tottenham is willing to sell Modric at the right price, but sources told Press Association Sport they are looking for a fee nearer to £40million ($62.1 million) than the widely-reported figure of £35million ($54.3 million). Manchester United and Paris St Germain are also reported to be interested in the 26-year-old.

Villas-Boas said at a news conference in America: "Hopefully the situation does not drag on because it doesn't help Luka and it doesn't help to solve in any way the situation.

"The situation is not dependent on Tottenham, it is dependent on the clubs who are interested in the player.

"It's the first time Luka has taken these actions. The chairman and myself have been very open with the situation by saying we are willing to listen to offers for the player, which is uncommon.

"He has had many (expressions of) interest in the past, like last year, but he has always behaved professionally.

"We never doubt his human qualities but the club has to take action regarding a player who is missing on club duty and that's what we are doing.

"We have to hold on to our values and our rights and at the moment, the situation for Luka is that he is under club discipline."

The Portuguese manager, who was speaking before Modric's return to training was confirmed, added: "The player's behavior at the moment is not what we want and that's why we are trying to bring him back to Tottenham duties. The last I heard he was back in London.

"Unfortunately for him he is going to have to be fined by the club for not being present.

"He is a player who has offered so much to Tottenham so we have to have a sense of respect for what he has done over the years for us, but the chairman feels that the fact he is not present is not common professional behavior.

"Hopefully the situation can be solved in one of two ways -- the two ways being that the clubs interested meet the demands of Tottenham regarding the player's value, or the player continues and returns to club duty."

Injured Lionel Messi to skip tuneup

2012-07-24T17:12:00.001-07:00

BARCELONA, Spain -- Barcelona says Lionel Messi has a right leg injury that will keep him from playing in the preseason friendly against Hamburg on Tuesday.

The Spanish club says the Argentina forward hurt his right leg in practice on Monday and will sit out the game at the German team's stadium. Barcelona says Messi's response to treatment will determine how long he is sidelined.

Barcelona's next preseason match is at Moroccan club Raja on Saturday.

The 25-year-old Messi has largely avoided injuries during the past four seasons, winning three Ballon d'Ors and helping the Catalan club to 14 trophies in that period.

Talks stall between Man U, Moura

2012-07-24T17:11:00.000-07:00

LONDON -- Unless Manchester United matches Sao Paolo's current value for Brazilian star Lucas Moura, the club will unlikely reach a deal with the teenager, Moura's agent, Wagner Ribeiro told a Brazilian website Tuesday.

On Monday, Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the club's interest, but denied reports that a deal had been struck.

Lucas, 19, was rumored to be close to a switch from Sao Paulo to the Red Devils, but the two clubs have failed to agree on a fee after Manchester United's initial bid was rejected.

On Monday, the Brazilian website, UOL.com reported that Sao Paulo is seeking more money for the teenager, and his agent is claiming that the Premier League team has reached its limit for Lucas and a deal will not take place.

"They have reached their limit," Ribeiro told UOL. "Lucas Moura won't leave. He is happy at Sao Paulo. We have to forget this subject. There is no possibility he leaves now.

"Manchester United made an offer, which was rejected and they won't make another one as they have reached their limit."

For Sao Paulo, the decision not to sell would represent a major financial gamble. Moura's economic rights are currently 80 percent owned by the club, with the player retaining the remaining 20 percent, but from Aug. 1, 2012, that ownership share will fall by 10 percent under the terms of his contract, according to sources.

Manchester United is set to face former Chelsea starts Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka as the Red Devils take on Shanghai Shenhua Wednesday in a friendly.

Bolt, Jamaica prepare for Act II

2012-07-24T17:07:00.002-07:00

KINGSTON, Jamaica -- You can't hear yourself think.

The vuvuzelas, air horns, ThunderStix, cheers of grown men and shrieks of teenage girls drown out even the voices in people's minds. All one can do is watch genuine fanaticism take its course, as a jolly giant who just covered 100 meters in 9.82 seconds jogs to and fro on a berm before a sea of yellow- and green-clad patrons at Jamaica's National Stadium.

The place is nicknamed "The Office" for the way the country's soccer team took care of business during a 50-game unbeaten streak more than a decade ago; it is anything but officious right now, as the Big Man soaks in adulation.

Each slap of a spectator's palm, each wave of his hand and the removal of his shirt -- especially that -- sends another jolt of energy through the crowd, which reverberates around the stadium and rebounds off the lush mountainside to the east before wafting into the tropical gloaming.

Usain Bolt, citizen of the world, creature of the night, ambassador of fun, is home. And on this balmy May evening, after an easy victory in the Jamaica Invitational IAAF meet, home is happy to have him. "It's amazing to see so many people," Bolt says, "because I live off the crowd. It's a wonderful feeling."

His bouncing on the berm is supposed to be a cool-down for his uncommon musculature. In actuality, it may be just a warm-up, a prelude, a literal run-through, for what everyone here hopes will happen on Aug. 6, 2012.

On that day, the nation of Jamaica will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its independence, its golden jubilee; and, in England, the London Olympics will hold the medal ceremony for the men's 100-meter race. A flag will be raised for each of the top three finishers, and quite a few people in this stadium believe in their hearts that three Jamaican men will stand on those steps to receive the gold, silver and bronze medals, and three Jamaican flags will rise to the strains of the country's national anthem, "Jamaica, Land We Love."

Top 10 Exotic Beach Destinations

2012-07-24T16:42:00.001-07:00

1.Kamalame Cay, The Bahamas

This private island is just a 15-minute flight from Nassau and offers an isolated sanctuary surrounded by crystal-clear water and shaded with rustling palms.

Stay: At Kamalame Cay Resort, you'll get as much (or as little) attention as you want from the staff. Grab a cocktail and stroll across the sandy path to the dock to catch a stunning sunset; .
Eat: At the resort's Great House restuarant. Begin the day with a made-to-order breakfast with local fruits and freshly made Bahamian breads. Situated in a wraparound veranda, you'll enjoy gourmet cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.
Do: Discover the beauty of underwater life with a scuba expedition at the island's PADI rated Dive Centre. The centre offers all levels of certification for non-divers, snorkelers, and children. Diverse marine life and 100-foot visibility

2.Rosalie Bay, Dominica

Set on the wild Atlantic coast of rugged, mostly undeveloped Dominica, Rosalie Bay offers a tranquil island escape 45 minutes from the capital city of Roseau.

Stay: The Rosalie Bay Resort features 28 guest rooms and suites with mountain, ocean, river, or garden views amid towering palms and coconut trees .

Eat: Zamaan Restaurant offers fresh ingredients from Rosalie Bay Resort's garden and authentic Dominican flavors. Enjoy your meal under the moonlight on their outdoor veranda.

Do: Lace up your hiking boots for an intense trek over moss-covered paths toBoiling Lake, the world's second-largest volcanically heated body of water.

3.Playa del Carmen, Mexico

The exotic city of Playa del Carmen sits just outside of Cancun, with gorgeous beaches on the coast of the Caribbean Sea.

Stay: The Banyan Tree Mayakoba resort ensures privacy with your own plunge pool. Spacious villas seamlessly blend outdoors and indoors, with an open-to-the-stars tub.

Eat: Grab your significant other and experience a drifting dinner on the resort's Ixchel Dining Boat. Enjoy local and international cuisine prepared by an on-board culinary hoast as you drift down the Mayakoba lagoon.

Do: Take a day trip to the historic archeological sites outside of the city where you can explore preserved pyramids, ancient temples, and colorful murals.

4.Peter Island, British Virgin Islands

Located on one of the largest private islands in the Caribbean, Peter Island features a collection of five secluded beaches.

Stay: Peter Island Resort is the island's only attraction, but you won't be shorted on service. Enjoy luxurious villas and suites, a quietly attentive staff, and a spa surrounded by lush gardens.

Eat: Indulge in authentic Caribbean food and delectable desserts at the resort's Tradewinds restaurant. Don't miss the eatery's wine room, which features more than 300 exclusive selections.

Do: Sign up for the Sunset Loop, an exciting ride up the curvy mountain roads to one of the highest points on the island.

5.Curaçao Island, The Caribbean

This enticing island known for its gorgeous coral reefs is located in the southern Caribbean Sea, off the Venezuelan coast.

Stay: Visit Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa & Casino, which was actually once a slum. Now, the drastically renovated hotel features 80 rooms, each uniquely different.

Eat: Go global at the open-air Old Market, where vendors grill chicken, fish, or even goat for lunch. Seating is communal, so picnic tables are likely to be shared by government employees, cab drivers, and tourists.

Do: Head to historic downtown where boutiques line the streets selling duty-free diamonds, designer clothes, and Dutch goods.

6.Costa Alegre, Mexico

Located just below Puerto Vallarta and just above Cihuatlan, Costa Alegre translates to "Cheerful Coast."

Stay: Unwind at El Tamarindo, where you won't have to angle for beach space with only a few dozen guests and two miles of coast.

Eat: Try El Marino in nearby Manzanillo for fresh seafood and a stunning beach view.

Do: Arrange for a temazcal, an ancient purifying treatment involving a mud bath and sweat lodge on the beach.

7.Sandy Cay, British Virgin Islands

This small nature preserve in the British Virgin Islands is great for snorkeling and swimming, thanks to crystal-clear water and a shallow reef.

Stay: Sebastian's Seaside Villas, located about 4 miles from the island, offers beachfront accommodations with private balconies or terraces. Stroll the shore and enjoy spectacular sunset views;.

Eat: Hit up Ivan's Stress Free Bar, located on nearby Jost Van Dyke Island for seasonal BBQ every Thursday and great company from chef Ivan himself.

Do: Explore the white-sand beach—home to endangered leather back turtles—and snorkel in the waters around Sandy Spit.

8.West Snake Caye, Port of Honduras

Seventeen miles from the town of Punta Gorda, the four small Snake Cayes lie in the 160-mile Port of Honduras Marine Reserve, which boasts lush mangrove trees and endangered species.

Stay: The Wyvern Hotel in Punta Gorda is equipped with lush bathrobes provided in every room with tranquil Charlotte Harbor views; .

Eat: For a taste of fresh, local cuisine, try Emery's in Punta Gorda. The open-air restaurant features a variety of dishes, with everything from stew chicken to whole fried snapper.

Do: Trek through towering mangroves toward the center of the island, where you'll find a small, serene lagoon.

9.Gold Coast, Barbados

You might experience a "star-sighting" on this popular celebrity hot spot off the West coast of Barbados.

Stay: The lavish Sandy Lane resort will make you and your family feel right at home with spacious villas, penthouses, and suites; .

Eat: Head to the resort's casual Bajan Blue restaurant for European, Asian, and Caribbean influenced cuisine in an idyllic beachside atmosphere.

Do: Tee up on the luxurious Green Monkey golf course, designed by golf architect Tom Fazio. Carved from an old limestone quarry, the stunning view may make concentrating on the game a little harder.

10.Shoal Bay East, Anguilla

Sleepy Anguilla wakes up—a little—at this two-mile expanse of feathery white sand that glitters in the sun.

Stay: The quiet Shoal Bay Villas offer studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments all equipped with kitchens, and steps away from the water.

Eat: Don't miss Gwen's Reggae Bar, where you can enjoy a tasty lunch, live reggae on Sundays, and a nap on an inviting hammock under a grove of palm trees.

Do: Take advantage of the bay's pure-white beaches, which are rarely crowded, and offer complete relaxation.

Beyond The Sky

2012-07-24T05:40:00.002-07:00

Spotting a UFO is like falling in love—you suspect an illusion, but you can’t turn away. On the clear morning of June 24, 2011, five luminous white disks, spinning and dipping among the clouds, appeared in the sky over London. Witnesses captured the unidentified flying objects on their camera phones, and as I watched their videos I couldn’t help but believe. The disks had intelligence, sentience, even a kind of beauty. Since turning 40, I’d found myself at something of a crossroads. For the first time since childhood—though I knew it was absurd—I wondered if aliens existed and if they ever transported humans to an advanced world. Every night I watched the stars.
A few months later I found myself in London at the headquarters of the British Interplanetary Society. Richard Osborne had two drinks going—a glass of claret and a champagne chaser. He turned toward me and said with urgency, “We need to become a multiplanet society as fast as possible. Our solar system is in a dangerous spot. There are too many rocks floating around.”
Astrophysicists, engineers and science fiction enthusiasts milled around the buffet tables, discussing wormhole portals, warp drives and the possibility of hitchhiking on negative force fields. On the walls hung movie stills from 2001: A Space Odyssey signed by Arthur C. Clarke, one of the society’s early members. In a corner, a few of the latest rocket models stood on pedestals.
Osborne opted for the vegetarian lasagna, so I followed suit. We’d had only a few bites when he guided me back to the drinks table. He wore a silk ascot under his blue oxford, and his long hair rippled across his shoulders. A physicist by training and a rocket specialist by trade, Osborne resembled a slightly overweight professional wrestler. “I’m not worried about global warming,” he said, “as much as I am about asteroids, which are a greater existential threat. We need to find our way to the next solar system. Or secure a base on the moon.”
Osborne is a designer for Project Icarus, a worldwide organization dedicated to improving travel time to nearby stars. Using conventional rocket-propulsion technology, it would take 70,000 years for Voyager 1, launched in 1977, to reach Alpha Centauri, the star system closest to our planet. The scientists of Project Icarus want to design a fusion-powered starship that could reach a nearby star in less than 100 years. They hope their research will lead to the launch of an interstellar vehicle by the year 2100.
I headed for the cans of ale stacked in a pyramid at the far end of the table. A little man in a tweed coat appeared at my elbow. His eyebrows twitched like angry mice. “Have you read my article on the benefits of asteroid mining in the April issue of Spaceflight?”
I told him I hadn’t yet seen that issue. “I’m in a debate with a certain physicist from San Diego,” the man said. “I believe I’ve decimated his argument. After all, we can use asteroids to replenish our platinum-group metals, then target them for water refueling during lunar colonization.”
I squeezed past him and got my hands on a beer. It had become uncomfortably warm at the Interplanetary Society—all the scientists, unleashed from their labs, had their brains on overdrive. I found an empty spot along the wall.
Standing beside me, a large man in a pin-striped suit had the reassuring air of a businessman. I found myself gravitating toward him.
He shook my hand and asked, “What brings you to our little gathering?”
“Just curiosity, I guess.” He studied me quietly. I had a swig of beer. “I just hope we’re not alone. You know, drifting around on a dying rock.”
“We take our motto seriously here: From imagination to reality.”
I looked around the room. “Anyone you know seen any UFOs?”
He shook his head. “We tend not to invite those types.”
Space exploration has reached the outer limits of our solar system. Voyager 1 should be the first man-made object to go interstellar. Meanwhile, the Kepler spacecraft has discovered dozens of planets orbiting distant stars. We are hot on the hunt for extraterrestrial life—and plan to make ourselves extraterrestrial—at a faster pace than ever before. Radio telescopes from Puerto Rico to Japan sweep the heavens for alien signals. Soon, on the Chajnantor plateau high in the mountains of Chile, the ultrasensitive Atacama Large Millimeter Array is expected to detect a new galaxy every three minutes. Are we at a midlife crisis as a species, increasingly aware of our uncertain future?
In late December, after celebrating a certain extraterrestrial’s birthday, I decided to check out the SETI Institute. I wanted to ask about the possibility of aliens at the place that had made its name searching for them.
The nonprofit Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence Institute, founded in 1984 with the help of NASA’s chief of life sciences, uses large radio telescopes to scan the outer reaches of our galaxy. The institute partners with NASA on many projects and currently employs more than 150 people, including astrophysicists and astronomers with ties to NASA and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena.
Frank Drake, whose “Drake equation” is the most widely used way to estimate the existence of intelligent life in the galaxy, is a SETI Institute trustee. Still, visiting hours were not listed on the website. When I called the main number, I heard a recorded message. Operators were either away from the desk or on another line. What if I’d been an alien?

Before leaving San Francisco, I stopped at a neighborhood café. I asked the regulars if they had any messages for the institute across the bay. “See if those ETs do crossword puzzles,” a guy in a Giants cap said. He tapped his newspaper with a pencil. “I need a five-letter word for cornucopia.”
It was overcast all the way out of the city. As soon as I reached Silicon Valley, the clouds scattered and sunlight shot across the sky. I passed Stanford University, NASA’s Ames Research Center, Moffett Federal Airfield and an aviation museum. An electric Tesla breezed by me on the highway without a sound. I followed my car’s navigation system to the SETI Institute’s headquarters in Mountain View. I expected to find the place teeming with scientists interpreting the latest data from Kepler. Instead, the parking lot was mostly empty.
The SETI Institute shares a building with a company called Jasper Wireless. I could see the Jasper guys through an open door in the lobby, working away at their computers. The institute’s door was shut. A handwritten sign explained: seti institute closed for winter holidays. in case of year-end gift receipt, urgent message or other important issue, please call main number.
Maybe this was why the aliens hadn’t made first contact—they kept trying to communicate during our winter break. I walked around SETI’s half of the building, hoping for a glimpse inside. I climbed up into the planters and stood beside an old elm. I peered through the dirty window.
“Can I help you?”
I turned. Down in the parking lot a man stood beside his Toyota Prius, holding a cup of coffee. He’d parked in one of the SETI spaces.
“You work here?” I asked, climbing out from under the elm. “You mind if I ask you a few questions?”
He gave me a shy smile and walked me into the building. An astrophysicist with a doctorate from Cornell, Paul Estrada has a pronounced forehead and bulging eyes—as if his brain were so large, it needed an escape route. Estrada studies how planets form out of nebula dust. He took me through SETI’s front offices, which were occupied by high-speed computers. They blinked steadily behind a wall of glass, interpreting signals from the powerful Allen Telescope Array up in Hat Creek—about 320 miles northeast of Mountain View. (Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, donated $25 million to the project to keep this search for aliens alive.) The SETI Institute, Estrada explained, is pointing the array at stars with potential Earth-like planets that are being discovered by NASA’s Kepler space telescope. These planets are relatively close, a few hundred light-years away.
“So if we heard a message right now,” I asked him, “it would be hundreds of years old?”
“That’s right,” Estrada said. “And our reply would take hundreds of years to get back.”
I wondered what kind of meaningful conversations were possible under such time delays. If I asked an alien for a five-letter word for cornucopia, would crossword puzzles still exist by the time I received an answer?
Estrada walked me upstairs and turned down a corridor of cubicles. The fluorescent lights flickered on. I glanced into the empty workstations. Instead of pictures of family members, SETI Institute researchers hang pinups of black holes and supernovas.
“We can talk in here,” Estrada said, leading me into the Carl Sagan conference room. The walls were covered with computer-generated images—a telescope beaming from the surface of the sun, a space base on Mars. Estrada settled into a leather chair.
“Can you tell me a little more about your research?”
“I study the origins of the planets by looking at how they form from the disk of gas and dust that surrounds their young parent stars.” Estrada drank the rest of his coffee. “I model the structural and compositional evolution of Saturn’s rings due to meteoroid bombardment.”
I was at a loss for words. He sat forward, waved his hands and started to shout. “Do planets form out of nebulae that are turbulent or not turbulent? That’s one of the key questions I am trying to answer. I do complex parallel computing to model the sticking and growth of dust particles into larger bodies in the nebula on a global scale.”
I wanted to go back downstairs. I could have talked to the good people of Jasper Wireless or watched the computers tracking signals from outer space. I wondered if Estrada himself were an alien and if he had snuck into the SETI Institute to infiltrate the human race.
Estrada walked me out of the building. I walked to the parking lot, gathered myself for a moment, then turned on my car’s navigation system to guide me home.

***

There are no easy answers to why we’re here on this planet or if we’re alone. We build rockets, fly men to the moon, guide robots around the surface of Mars, only to come crashing back to Earth, no less ignorant about the most important questions. How was the universe created? Is there a purpose to life? Are we really cosmic accidents, all by ourselves, or do we share our fate with some web-footed Greys in a distant galaxy?
Stephen Hawking, confined to his wheelchair and capable now of moving only a few muscles in his cheek, finds encouragement in the revelations of science. Recently he told New Scientist the most exciting discovery during his career was “variations in the temperature of the cosmic microwave background,” which amounts to “quantum gravity written across the sky.” (When asked what he thought about most during the day, Hawking admitted, “Women. They are a complete mystery.”)
The cosmic microwave background, also described as the afterglow from the big bang, consists of a band of barely detectable thermal radiation, a remnant of the brief period of time when light and matter first separated. Because it holds such valuable clues to our beginnings, a full understanding of the CMB almost certainly means a Nobel Prize for whoever achieves it. I wanted to know where the best minds were investigating the CMB—and after some research, I headed south to Pasadena.
It was early January, and the day felt as warm as bathwater as I drove among the palm trees. A few Santa Claus sleighs littered the enormous front yards. I passed Orange Grove Avenue, where rocket scientist Jack Parsons blew himself up in his garage in 1952. The road rose toward distant mountains. Soon I reached a sign: welcome to la cañada flintridge, home of the jet propulsion laboratory.

Top 10 Best Beaches In The World

2012-07-23T17:51:00.001-07:00

For those of us that worship the sun, we are perpetually searching for the perfect spot to worship. What makes a spot perfect? Well, that can vary greatly from one person to the next. Some of us prefer a quiet spot where we can enjoy the sun in peace. Some of us want to be where we can show off our designer swimwear and toned body. Still others are looking to worship without getting those annoying tan lines. Regardless of your personal tanning style, we would all agree that the three essential ingredients for a world class sunbathing spot are sun, sand and surroundings. With those three ingredients in mind, we’ve listed the best of the best. From famous to infamous, secluded to crowded and fashion conscious to bathing suits optional, you are sure to find a beach on the list that agrees with your style. This list is in no particular order.

10.La Minitas Beach
La Romana,Dominican Republic

The beaches of the Dominican Republic are renowned for their beauty and tranquility. Pristine, unspoiled and scenic, you almost can’t go wrong anywhere in the D.R. The only way to access La Minitas Beach is by a ten minute shuttle or golf cart ride, making this a great pick for those that prefer to sunbathe in relative seclusion. Despite being relatively secluded, there are restaurants fairly close if you get hungry, and, best of all, there is a massage room directly on the beach. Sunbathing and a massage – how can you go wrong?

9. White Beach
Boracay Island,Philippines

Over two miles of powder soft white sands that never get hot. Can we say sunbather’s paradise? This little slice of heaven lay virtually untouched until about 30 years ago. It is now considered by most to be one the best tropical vacation spots in the world. Make sure you go during Amihan (roughly September through June) when the temperatures are moderate, there is little rain and the prevailing wind blows a cool breeze in from the East.

8. South Beach
Miami, Florida

South Beach is the “see and be seen” beach. For those who love a little eye candy while soaking up the rays, this is the place for you. South Beach really comes alive at night, though, and you are almost assured of seeing someone famous if you spend any time there. If quiet and peaceful is not your idea of the way to worship the sun, then renew your gym membership and plan a trip down to Miami.

7. Santorini's Red Beach
Akrotiri,Greek Islands

Santorini’s Red Beach is one of the most picturesque locations on the list. Surrounded by soaring red lava cliffs (hence the name), this beach also has some of the most beautiful and unique red sand in the world. The beach is only accessible by boat, or by a ten minute descent by foot from above. The entire island was formed from a now-sleeping volcano – sleeping but not dead. Santorini is said to be the true Atlantis, as much of the island literally slipped below the sea in the course of a night.

6. Tulum Beach
Tulum, Mexico

Mexico is hardly short of beautiful cities, with gorgeous beaches. What sets Tulum apart is the proximity to some of the most stunning Mayan ruins in all of Mexico. Tulum lies about 80 miles from Cancun, making it close enough to explore Cancun if you choose, yet far enough away to escape the crowds and over abundance of hotels. In fact, Tulum has yet to be completely invaded by tourism and is, therefore, still rather secluded and peaceful. If you have an interest in archeology, ancient civilizations or just love exploring, then Tulum is the perfect combination of sun and adventure.

5. Nudist Camp Beach
Vrboska, The Island of Hvar, Croatia

If you simply abhor those pesky tan lines, then try the naturalist beach in Vrboska. Surrounded by vineyards, pine groves and olive trees, this little cove is an incredibly beautiful spot for nude sunbathing. The beach has a plethora of rock outcroppings which can provide a secluded spot for sunbathing in your birthday suit, if you prefer privacy. If the full naturalist experience is more your style, then you may want to camp at the naturalist camp nearby complete with a small restaurant, store and gas station.

4.Hanalei Bay Beach
Kauai, Hawaii

If picturesque is what you are looking for in a sunbathing experience, then Hanalei Bay Beach is a must-see. A near perfect semi-circle of white sand is surrounded by a backdrop of waterfalls and gorgeous mountains stretching up past the clouds. While it can get crowded, especially during the winter when the surfing is excellent, you won’t find a more stunning view to gaze at while tanning anywhere in the world.

3. Ocracoke Island
North Carolina

If privacy and seclusion are what you look for in a sunbathing location, then look no further. This little gem of a spot can only be reached by boat, private plane or ferry. While modern electronics (ie: phones and computers) have reached this island paradise, they are still frowned on. The wilderness beach on Ocracoke has some of the most pristine sand to be found. Relax, get that book out you’ve been wanting to read and enjoy the rays.

2. Ipanema Beach
Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

Yes, the beach made famous by the song! Actually, Ipanema became famous in the 1970s when women first started wearing tangas (precursor to today’s thong bathing suit) on its shores. That atmosphere of freedom is still alive and well in Rio de Janero. It is a city full of life and is more than tolerant of self expression – on the beach or off. Topless sunbathing is common and thongs are still the preferred beachwear. If you want to let your hair down and show off your hard work at the gym, Rio is the place to do it.

1. Santa Cruz Beaches
Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz is classic California sunbathing. With almost 30 miles of oceanfront beaches to choose from, you can’t go wrong in Santa Cruz. If you are a big wave surfer, or just like to watch them, then Steamer Lane is the beach for you. If you want privacy and romance , try catching some rays at Seascape Beach. If you want some fun mixed in with your sun worship, then Main Beach is the place to be. Main Beach has an old fashioned boardwalk and amusement park, complete with rides, games and food just steps from the beach. Santa Cruz has something for everyone and a beach to suit everyone’s style.

Rio de Janeiro Pics

2012-07-23T17:22:00.002-07:00

Beaches

Beaches are to Rio what cafes are to Paris. And while each beach has its own particular traits, there are some general rules to help you take the waters like a true Carioca.
Be Prepared -- First and foremost: Get a Brazilian bikini (though perhaps not if you're male). No matter how funky or fashionably teeny your swimsuit looked up north, on a Rio beach it's guaranteed to scream gringo. And if you're thinking your figure's not quite bikini-ready, relax. In Brazil everybody and their grandma wears a two-piece. (Note, however, that no matter how small they may shrink that top, Brazilian women never go topless -- that's for the heathen French.)

Second: Don't be a pack rat. If you observe your fellow beachgoers you'll note that Brazilians bring neither picnic basket nor backpack full of stuff and gadgets. Why bring anything when everything you could possibly want is for sale on the beach? Blankets, inflatable mattresses, and quilts are likewise no-nos. A foldable beach chair is acceptable for women; Brazilian men stand or sit on the sand. All you really need is a towel, sunscreen, and a little bit of cash for beer, food, and other incidentals.

Third and most important: Relax. Go for a little swim, chat with the one that brung ya or the cutie on the towel next door, have a beer and some snacks, and soak up those rays.
Water Conditions -- The beaches facing Guanabara Bay (primarily Flamengo and Botafogo) are nearly always too polluted for swimming. Thanks to a substantial current, the ocean beaches (Copacabana, Ipanema, and Barra) are much cleaner, but even so, sometimes after a heavy rain the fecal coli form count rises beyond acceptable levels. The newspaper Globo prints a daily beach report listing all beach closings. Consult that or ask at your hotel.
Safety Issues -- Another argument for traveling light to the beach is security. You're unlikely to get mugged on a Rio beach in the daytime, but leaving that iPod, wallet, or pocket camera on the sand while you head off for a swim is an open invitation to be relieved of your valuables. I would also advise against moonlit strolls by the waterline. At night the sand is dark and deserted; stick to the large sidewalk fronting the beach -- it's well lit and patrolled often by the tourist police.

Know About the Beach Entrance -- Maybe it's to keep sand from tracking in the lobby, or maybe it's to avoid having the Speedo-clad squeezing into an elevator full of suits. For whatever reason, many beachfront hotels have a separate entrance and elevator for those going to the beach. Normally marked ENTRADA DE BANHISTAS or ENTRADA DE SERVIÇO, these elevators lead to the hotel service entrance where -- as a bonus for following the local etiquette -- you can pick up a beach towel, chair, and umbrella. Returning from the beach you enter the same side entrance and drop the stuff off again.

Baywatch Rio-Style -- On hot summer days, Cariocas take to the ocean like fish to water, except of course, that many Cariocas can't swim. On days when wind and waves get rough, this can lead to some exciting beach theater. One day on Leme beach a helicopter zoomed down along the surf line from the direction of Copacabana, stopping to hover over a spot some 15m (50 ft.) offshore. We could see a swimmer in the circle of water beat flat by the helicopter blades. A rescue jumper appeared in the open door of the chopper, then plunged into the ocean. The helicopter lowered a big net and scooped up swimmer and diver. It hovered over to the beach and plopped the swimmer unceremoniously on the sand. The rescuer was then raised on a line and the helicopter sped off; the swimmer skulked into the crowd. Five minutes after it began the beach was back to normal again. On a busy weekend, helicopters can perform up to 200 such rescues.
The Beaches
Botafogo and Flamengo are fine and picturesque for an afternoon stroll, but too polluted for swimming. Off by itself in Urca, Praia Vermelha faces the ocean and is often fine. It offers a fabulous view of the Sugarloaf, and next to no tourists. On the other hand, it's completely lacking in waves.

The first of the ocean beaches, Copacabana remains a favorite. The wide and beautifully landscaped Avenida Atlântica is a great place for a stroll. (The wavy landscaped sidewalk mosaic is the work of landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx.) When the feet start to tire, pull up a chair at any of the countless beachside kiosks, grab a chilled coconut or a cerveja, and spend some time admiring the picture-perfect view. (The new kiosks also offer modern, clean bathroom facilities, at a cost of R$1.) The far end of the beach near the Forte de Copacabana is where fishermen beach their small craft; it's a good place to find freshly grilled shrimp or other seafood. For those with other fish to fry, the area in front of the Copacabana Palace around the Rainbow kiosk is a well-known gay area.
The postos (lifeguard stations) along Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are open daily from 8am to 8pm. They offer first aid (free if needed) and changing and toilet facilities for a charge of R$1. Postos are numbered 1 through 11 starting from Leme and ending in Leblon. Cariocas often use them as reference points.

Ipanema Beach was famous among Brazilians even before Tom Jobim wrote his song about the tall and tan and young and lovely girl he saw and sighed over. Stretching almost 3km (2 miles) from the foot of the Pedra Dois Irmãos to the Ponta Arpoador, the beach at Ipanema is a strand like nowhere else. Part of the attraction does involve observing the self-confident sensuality with which the Ipanema garotas (girls) stroll the sands. (Equal-opportunity purists should note that there's an equivalent amount of male beefcake on hand -- it just doesn't inspire songs or poetry.) But more than anything, Ipanema is a carnival. Watch the games of volleyball or futvolei (like volleyball, but no hands allowed), beach soccer, surfing, and wakeboarding. Forgot your bikini? Wait a moment and a vendor will stop by with one for sale -- along with towels, sarongs (called kangas in Brazil), hats, shades, peanuts, beer, cookies, Walkmans, suntan lotion, Styrofoam airplanes, Winnie-the-Pooh books, sticks of grilled shrimp, shelled coconuts, even deep-muscle massages. Claim a piece of sand on Ipanema, and all of life's essentials will come to you.

The section just around the point from Copacabana -- called Praia do Arpoador -- is a prime surf spot and a great location for watching the local dudes take to the waves. One of the surf schools also runs lessons for kids from the local favelas. The area around Posto 8 (opposite Rua Farme Amoedo) is Ipanema's gay section.
Farther down into Leblon (still the same beach, just a different name once you cross the canal) you will find the Baixo Baby. This play area, equipped by corporate sponsors with lots of playground equipment and beach toys, is a popular gathering place for nannies and parents to watch their kids run around and play with sand.
Off on its own surrounded by mountains, São Conrado Beach offers some fine scenery and a (relative) sense of isolation. Its other main claim to fame is as a landing strip for all the hang gliders (asa delta in Portuguese) who leap from nearby peaks.
Farther from the city is the beach at Barra de Tijuca. The main reason to go out here is if you're a surf-head desperate for a wave. The surfing is said to be the best in Rio, particularly around the Barraca de Pepê (Pepê's Shack) where surfers like to gather. The only reason to go even farther beyond Barra is to get to Grumari, a lovely small beach set in a nature reserve. Grumari has no high-rises or beachside restaurants, just lush vegetation and a few kiosks by the side of the road. However, don't expect to get away from the crowds even this far out; on weekends the place is packed.

Know the Beach Rules
Certain unspoken, gender-specific rules govern the public behavior of men and women on the beach at Ipanema -- and by extension, on all Brazilian beaches. What follows is a tongue-in-cheek rundown of beachgoing do's and don'ts.
Sunbathing 101: The most important rule is that nothing shall come between a man and the raw, hot sand. A man who uses a beach chair, a towel, or a kanga is not a man but a gringo, and shall be shunned. A Brazilian man must plant his Lycra-covered butt down in hot white silicon, making sure his lower back and thighs are covered in sticky white grains.
There are certain exceptions. A man may sit on a sheet of folded newspaper. A man may sit on a tiny corner of a woman's kanga, provided the woman is beautiful and he occupies no more than 3% of the total kanga surface. A man may also stand, drinking a cerveja (beer), looking around manfully and sharing the company of other men.
A woman must sit on a kanga. Beach chairs are also acceptable. Women do not touch the sand, nor do women stand. Women do not join in beach sports such as soccer or foot volley, nor do they plod sweatily down the beach pretending to be joggers. The acceptable positions for women are lounging on their backs, lying dreamily on their bellies, or sitting cross-legged in a circle with at least three other women.

When rising from the sand -- or newspaper, or corner of a woman's kanga -- a man may not brush the sticky white sand from his butt. A man may not touch his butt. A man who touches his butt is not a man but a bicha (sissy) or a gringo.
A woman, when rising from the sand, must brush herself voluptuously, making sure both glutes are thoroughly massaged from waist down to lower thigh. Particular attention must be paid to readjusting the bikini bottom so that it rests comfortably between her butt cheeks.
Water Frolicking 101: Men must swim or at least pretend to swim (many Cariocas actually don't know how to swim but will fake it). A man who dibbles his toes or contemplates the waves with a far-off look in his eye is not a man but a gringo, and must be shunned. Men approach the sea in a series of angry stomps, stopping at the waterline to regard the surf with a steely glare before sprinting forward and diving into a breaking wave. Once immersed, a man may swim farther out, or he may bodysurf. A man may not play in the waves.

Women may play in the waves, turning their backs to the surf and giggling as the water breaks over them. This, however, is rare. Generally, a woman dips her toes, advances as deep as mid-calf, and then waits for a breaker, at which time she squats and allows the surf to immerse her bikini bottom. If this is found to be too traumatizing, a woman may also bring a cup to the beach, dip it in the frothy foam and pour the water over various parts of her body, thoroughly massaging each part for at least 30 seconds afterward.

Beach Flirting 101: Men and women do not enter the water together. This is not to say they do not interact. For instance, a man may approach a group of no more than three pretty women sitting cross-legged on their kangas and ask them to watch his shorts and sandals while he manfully attacks the ocean. Their agreement obtained, the man will then place his stuff on the sand near their kangas and stomp angrily toward the surf, which he will regard with a glare all the more steely for the fact that he knows three pretty women are admiring the manful way he's attacking the elements. The women will ignore him, missing the determined plunge into the roiling surf and the angry stomp back up the beach. But at least they will never call him a gringo!

Oahu Grand Circle

2012-07-23T17:03:00.000-07:00

Chinaman's Hat

Choose the Grand Circle Oahu Island Tour for a day trip filled with fabulous activities and sightseeing. The popular, fully narrated Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour takes you on a scenic trip around the beautiful island of Oahu to see iconic sites such as the Amelia Earheart Lookout with views over Diamond Head, the Halona Blowhole, Hanauma Bay, Nu'uanu Pali Lookout and world-famous North Shore surfing beaches.

Chinaman's Hat

This tour also includes a visit to the famous Dole Plantation Oahu.
At the Dole Pineapple Plantation, take a stroll through the gardens and learn about the history of Hawaii's pineapple industry.

Byodo Temple

Walk through the Plantation Gardens and see different types of pineapple from around the world. Browse the Country Store to find the perfect gift to bring back home.

Hanauama Bay

Your Grand Circle Island Tour Oahu continues with a visit to Amelia Earheart Lookout, where you will enjoy panoramic views of picturesque Diamond Head.

You will see some of Oahu's most prestigious homes in the Kahala area, and marvel at the view from the lookout over Hanauma Bay, a Hawaiian Marine Preserve (closed Tuesdays).

Kualoa Ranch

Continue along the coastline to the famed Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach and Makapu'u Point. Take in some of Oahu's most beautiful vistas over Windward Oahu from Nu'uanu Pali Lookout.
You'll also see Byodo-In Temple, Chinaman's Hat, Kahana Bay and world-famous North Shore surfing beaches such as Sunset, Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay.

8 Exotic Destinations that you can Afford

2012-07-23T16:45:00.002-07:00

1. Egypt

Despite having some of the world’s best-known monuments, Egypt struggles to fill its abundant hotels. With less-than-wealthy locals far outnumbering the tourists, it’s easy to find a bargain meal or a guide or taxi driver. (They’ll find you whether you need them or not.) Admission prices for the ancient pyramids and temples are reasonable, generally ranging from $3 to $14.

Sample deals: a first-class train ticket from Cairo to Luxor for $17; a Nile-view deluxe double room in Luxor for $60 with breakfast; a private room by the sea in Dahab for under $20; entrance to the Nubia Museum in Aswan for $4; a falafel sandwich at a Cairo street stall for 40 cents.

2.Indonesia

This Southeast Asian nation is one of the most diverse and attractive destinations in the world, with a long string of volcanic islands and a range of topography and culture. It could also be the best value on the planet, with cheap hotels going for $5 a night, often right beside great snorkeling spots. Bali is the most developed island, but even there you can find plenty of deals. On Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi, however, it’s easy to branch out like an intrepid explorer or get pampered on the cheap in the most popular spots.

Sample deals: a double room with pool and breakfast in Yogyakarta, Java for under $20; a five-day small ship cruise between Lombok and Flores islands via Komodo for $200 per person including meals; a first-class train seat from Jakarta to Yogyakarta for $25; an hour-long massage for $8-$15; a day’s motorbike rental on Bali for $10.

3.Mexico

In mid-2008, the peso was at 10 to the dollar. Now it’s close to 13. That’s a discount of more than 25 percent in a country that was already a deal. Plus Swine Flu followed by drug gang violence on the U.S. border has meant that travelers have tremendous bargaining power on hotels and tours. To find the best values, visit the historic colonial cities or beach areas where Americans don’t outnumber the locals. (As in places where there’s no Señor Frog’s in sight.)

Sample deals: a three-course lunch at a market stand for $4; nice hotels in centuries-old colonial buildings for under $75 double with breakfast and Wi-Fi; a round of Negra Modelos for five at nearly any bar, including gratis snacks, for $10; and some of the nicest deluxe buses in the hemisphere for $6 to $8 per hour of travel.

4.Honduras

Few people knew anything about this country until it was all over the news last year when the president got forced out of office. You can find fabulous deals on scuba diving packages on Roatan Island. This Caribbean island sits next to the second-longest coral reef in the world, and every hotel seems to offer attractive package plans no matter the season. On the mainland you’ve got tropical national parks, the rugged Moskito Coast, and Copán, one of the key Mayan sites in the Americas and a great little colonial town.

Sample deals: $35 white-water rafting trips; weeklong learn-to-dive packages with room, breakfast, and transfers for under $600; a cold coconut with a straw for 40 cents; and admission to the Copán archeological park for $10. For more info, see the Honduras Tips site or Roatan Online, or see more travel prices in Honduras here.

5.Guatemala

This is only a shade farther to fly than Mexico, but it is a truly exotic destination. The descendants of the Mayans still dress in traditional clothing in the villages surrounding stunning Lake Atitlán. The Spanish colonial buildings in the city of Antigua are older than anything left standing in our historic city districts. The sprawling archeological park of Tikal is the granddaddy of Mayan ruins, and still surrounded by jungle.

Sample deals: taxis in Antigua for $4; great hotels with a view on Lake Atitlán for $60 a night; a week of private Spanish lessons including homestay starting at $180; a zipline canopy tour near Tikal for $30; three pounds of bananas or avocados for a dollar. La Ruta Maya Online is the best resource for hotels, tours, and Spanish language

6.Peru

Machu Picchu alone is worth the journey, but it’s just the start in this value-packed country. Inca ruins are scattered all around the Sacred Valley, and Cuzco is one of the most attractive cities in South America. There is also hiking in the Andes, admiring colonial architecture on the streets of Arequipa, trips through the Amazon, boating across the highest lake in the world, and flying over the strange Nazca lines.

Sample deals: Bus from Arequipa to Colca Canyon – $6; a big traditional lunch and a beer for $7; simple restaurant meal in the countryside $6 for two; entrance to the Inca Museum in Cuzco for $1.50; cheap single room or hostel bed $4-$10; airport taxi in Cusco $4.

7.Thailand

As with Honduras and Mexico, visitor numbers plunged when Bangkok was all over the news recently, so there are plenty of deals on airfare, tours, and hotels. This is a popular destination for travelers of all budget levels. Thailand continues to be one of the best bargains in the world in terms of hotel prices, and with a well-developed infrastructure, it’s easy to get around and see what you want to see, be it historic ruins, Buddhist temples, or tropical beaches.

Sample deals: a standard double at a true 5-star hotel in Bangkok for $250 or less per night—or a cheap place to flop down and sleep for 1/20th of that price; admission to the main ruins in Sukothai for under $2; a first-class round-trip sleeper train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai for about $40; a Skytrain ticket across Bangkok for about $1.30. The hands-down best travel resource for Thailand is Travelfish.org. They also put out some great iPhone/iPad apps on specific regions and islands.

8.Czech Republic

In much of Europe, prices in the big cities are often double what you find in the countryside. This is especially true in Eastern European countries like the Czech Republic, where vacationers on quick weekend breaks have driven up hotel and restaurant prices in Prague. In the smaller towns and cities, however, the country is one of Europe’s remaining great values. Castles on hill crests, some of the world’s best beer for a dollar or so in a pub, and winding cobblestone streets without crowds—Ye Olde Europe without the new Europe prices.

Sample deals: a room at the best hotel in town across Moravia for under $100 with breakfast; fully equipped hybrid bike rental for $25 a day; sommelier guided 12-bottle tasting at the Wine Salon of the Czech Republic in Valtice for $19; a train ticket from Prague to anywhere in the country for $12 or less.

Haw often do you Masturbate ?? (By FunXsite)

2012-07-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

Thirty years ago, we polled 65,396 male and 14,928 female readers of Playboy about their sexual habits. This year we repeated the survey so we could compare sex today with sex at the dawn of the digital age. With the help of Harris Interactive, we collected responses from 8,002male and 2,001female visitors to Playboy.com, the results of which were weighted to reflect the demographic of the average Playboy reader. Harris also presented the survey to 2,310 adults who aren't necessarily Playboy readers, to represent the average American.

Total respondents
Male: 8,002
Female: 2,001
What gender are you?
Male: 81 percent
Female: 19 percent
How old are you?
18-24: 22 percent
24-34: 27 percent
35-44: 23 percent
45-54: 22 percent
55-64: 5 percent
Over 65: 1 percent
Median age 35

What is your marital status?
Never married: 36 percent
Married or civil union: 42 percent
Divorced: 10 percent
Separated: 2 percent
Widow/widower: less than 1 percent
Living with partner: 9 percent
Which of the following best describes your current relationship status? (asked of unmarried)
I am casually dating one person: 9 percent (Male 10 percent, Female 7 percent)
I am casually dating more than one person: 11 percent (Male 10 percent, Female 12 percent)
I am in a committed relationship with one person, but we don't live together: 21 percent (Male 19 percent, Female 25 percent)
I am in a committed relationship with one person, and we live together: 20 percent
(Male 17 percent, Female 29 percent)
I am not currently in a relationship or dating: 36 percent
(Male 39 percent, Female 22 percent)
Other: 2 percent
Decline to answer: 1 percent
How long have you been in your current relationship? (asked of those in relationship)
Less than six months: 9 percent
6 months to 2 years: 16 percent
2 to 5 years: 16 percent
5 to 10 years: 19 percent
More than 10 years: 40 percent
Of the following, which do you consider yourself to be?
Heterosexual (straight): 91 percent
Lesbian: less than 1 percent
Gay: less than 1 percent
Bisexual: 7 percent
Not Sure: 1 percent
Decline to answer: less than 1 percent
Which of the following best describes your social/political beliefs?
Very conservative: 8 percent
Somewhat conservative: 19 percent
Moderate: 33 percent
Somewhat liberal: 18 percent
Very liberal: 10 percent
Other: 3 percent
Decline to answer: 8 percent
Which of the following best describes your religious belief?
Very religious: 8 percent
Somewhat religious: 57 percent
Not religious at all: 35 percent
Should sexual education be taught in public schools?
Yes: 92 percent
No: 4 percent
Not sure: 4 percent
Should men have a role in abortion decisions affecting their wives or lovers?
Yes: 75 percent (Male 79 percent, Female 58 percent)
No: 13 percent (Male 10 percent, Female 27 percent)
Not sure: 12 percent (Male 11 percent, Female 16 percent)
Do you have at least one online profile on any social website (such as Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, etc.)?
Yes: 90 percent
No: 10 percent
Have you ever used an online dating site?
Yes: 28 percent
No: 72 percent
Have you ever used an online dating site while already in a relationship?
Yes: 42 percent
No: 58 percent
Have you ever attempted to contact an ex-girlfriend, ex-boyfriend or ex-spouse online?
Yes: 50 percent
No: 50 percent
Does your online profile accurately reflect your current relationship status? [asked of those with profiles]
Yes: 84 percent
No: 5 percent
I do not display my relationship status: 11 percent
Have you ever suspected a partner of cheating on you?
Yes: 55 percent (Male 52 percent, Female 67 percent)
No: 43 percent (Male 46 percent, Female 41 percent)
Decline to answer: 2 percent
Could you forgive a partner who cheated?
Yes: 32 percent
No: 32 percent
Not sure: 36 percent
With whom did you first have sex, i.e. lose your virginity?
A person of the opposite sex: 89 percent (Male 89 percent, Female 90 percent)
A person of the same sex: 2 percent (Male 1 percent, Female 5 percent)
I am a virgin: 8 percent (Male 9 percent, Female 5 percent)
Decline to answer: 1 percent
How do you personally define “sex”?
Vaginal sex: 97 percent
Oral sex: 69 percent
Anal sex: 69 percent
Other: 7 percent
Decline to answer: less than 1 percent
The following questions were asked of respondents who've had intercourse:
At what age did you lose your virginity?
Before age 13: 6 percent
Age 13 to 14: 13 percent (Male 12 percent, Female 21 percent)
Age 15 to 17: 44 percent (Male 43 percent, Female 49 percent)
Age 18 to 22: 31 percent (Male 33 percent, Female 22 percent)
Age 23 to 25: 3 percent (Male 4 percent, Female 1 percent)
After age 26: 2 percent
Decline to answer: less than 1 percent
With whom did you lose your virginity?
With someone with whom I had a committed relationship: 45 percent (M43, F52)
With someone with whom I had a casual relationship: 31 percent (M32, F27)
During a one-night stand: 17 percent (Male 19 percent, Female 11 percent)
Other situation: 6 percent
Decline to answer: 1 percent
How long was it between the first time you had sex and the second time?
Same day: 9 percent (Male 10 percent, Female 7 percent)
Next day: 22 percent (Male 23 percent, Female 17 percent)
A week: 34 percent (Male 34 percent, Female 35 percent)
A month: 15 percent (Male 14 percent, Female 19 percent)
Six months: 9 percent (Male 8 percent, Female 11 percent)
A year: 5 percent
Longer than a year: 6 percent
Decline to answer: 1 percent
With how many different people have you ever had sex?
One: 10 percent
2 to 5: 25 percent
6 to 10: 21 percent
11 to 25: 21 percent
26 to 50: 12 percent
51 to 100: 5 percent
More than 100: 5 percent
Decline to answer: 1 percent
With how many different people have you had sex within the past 12 months?
None: 16 percent (Male 17 percent, Female 12 percent)
One: 52 percent (Male 53 percent, Female 47 percent)
Two: 13 percent (Male 13 percent, Female 17 percent)
3 to 5: 13 percent (Male 12 percent, Female 17 percent)
6 to 10: 3 percent
More than 10: 2 percent
Decline to answer: less than 1 percent
With how many people have you had sex just once?
None: 24 percent
One: 17 percent
Two: 14 percent
3 to 5: 21 percent
6 to 10: 9 percent
More than 10: 14 percent
Decline to answer: 1 percent
Where did you meet the last person with whom you had sex?
Through friends: 27 percent
At work: 17 percent
At school: 16 percent
At a bar: 11 percent
Online dating service: 7 percent*
At a party: 6 percent
At a church: 1 percent
At a health club: less than 1 percent
Other: 12 percent
Decline to answer: 2 percent
Have you ever had sex with another person while in a monogamous (one-person) relationship?
Yes, while married: 22 percent (Male 23 percent, Female 19 percent)
Yes, while in a monogamous relationship but not married: 26 percent (M26, F30)
No: 54 percent (Male 54 percent, Female 53 percent)
Decline to answer: 1 percent
Have you ever had sex with a person of a different religion?
Yes: 62 percent
No: 16 percent
Not sure: 22 percent
What is the shortest amount of time that elapsed between the time you met someone and when you had sex with him or her?
Six hours or less: 46 percent (Male 48 percent, Female 37 percent)
24 hours: 9 percent (Male 8 percent, Female 10 percent)
Two or three days: 9 percent (Male 9 percent, Female 8 percent)
Weeks but less than a month: 15 percent (Male 14 percent, Female 20 percent)
Months but less than a year: 13 percent (Male 12 percent, Female 16 percent)
A year or more: 4 percent
Not sure/don't recall: 4 percent
Decline to answer: 1 percent
Do you know the first and last name(s) of all of the people with whom you've had sex?
Yes: 46 percent (Male 44 percent, Female 56 percent)
No: 53 percent (Male 56 percent, Female 44 percent)
Decline to answer: 1 percent
Have you ever had sex with more than one person in the same 24-hour period (i.e. different people at different times in the day)?
Yes: 45 percent
No: 55 percent
Have you ever had sex with a person of the same gender?*
Yes: 15 percent (Male 9 percent, Female 38 percent)
No: 85 percent (Male 91 percent, Female 61 percent)
* 6 percent of straight, single males report having had sex with another male, and 24 percent percent of straight, single females report having had sex with another woman (3 percent declined to answer). Overall, 9 percent of straight people say they've had sex with someone of the same gender.
Have you ever had sex with a person of the opposite gender?*
Yes: 99 percent
No: 1 percent
* 90 percent of gays and lesbians say they have had sex with someone of the opposite gender
With which of the following people have you had sex?
An ex-boyfriend/girlfriend/spouse: 61 percent (Male 61 percent, Female 64 percent)
A classmate: 60 percent (M60, F67)
A co-worker: 51 percent (M52, F47)
A person of a different race (white, black, Asian, etc.): 43 percent (M42, F46)
A neighbor: 32 percent (M33, F27)
A person from another country: 25 percent (M26, F19)
A roommate: 18 percent (M18, F17)
A boss: 10 percent (M8, F17)
A professor or instructor: 5 percent (M5, F6)
A therapist: 2 percent
None of these: 11 percent (M10, F 11)
In which of the following places have you had sex in the past year?
On a couch or chair: 68 percent (Male 66 percent, Female 77 percent)
My bedroom: 62 percent (M62, F63)
Bathroom, shower or locker room: 58 percent (M56, F65)
On the floor: 58 percent (M56, F64)
In a hotel or motel: 58 percent (M58, F60)
Our shared bedroom: 54 percent (M54, F57)
My partner's bedroom: 42 percent (M40, F51)
In a parked car: 34 percent (M32, F41)
Outdoors (woods, park, etc.): 32 percent (M31, F38)
On a desk: 15 percent (M14, F16)
At the office: 9 percent (M9, F10)
Other: 10 percent (M9, F12)
Decline to answer: 2 percent

Since losing your virginity, what the longest time you have gone without having sex?
Less than one month: 14 percent
1 to 6 months: 37 percent
7 months to 1 year: 20 percent
Longer than a year: 23 percent
Longer than five years: 5 percent
Decline to answer: less than 1 percent
The following question was asked of all respondents:
With how many partners have you had only oral sex?
None: 39 percent
One: 20 percent
Two: 13 percent
Three to five: 15 percent
Six or more: 13 percent
Decline to answer: 1 percent
The following questions were asked of respondents who've had intercourse:
How frequently do you have sex?
At least once a day: 5 percent (Male 4 percent, Female 8 percent)
4 or 5 times a week: 13 percent (Male 12 percent, Female 17 percent)
2 or 3 times a week: 28 percent (Male 28 percent, Female 30 percent)
Once a week: 22 percent (Male 23 percent, Female 21 percent)
Once a month: 14 percent (Male 14 percent, Female 11 percent)
Every other month: 4 percent (Male 4 percent, Female 3 percent)
2 or 3 times a year: 5 percent (Male 5 percent, Female 3 percent)
Less than two times a year: 6 percent (Male 7 percent, Female 4 percent)
Decline to answer: 3 percent