Ever wonder why Hassidic Jews rock the sideburn curls from the cradle to the grave and Germans keep it baby faced for life? In some instances, it’s just a matter of stereotyping but in others, rules of customs and genetics make it so. If you’ve ever mused on why French girls let that armpit hair grow long enough to braid, look no further for the answer. We’re breaking every hair-sprouting orifice, from the curiously bearded Ainu’s of Japan to the Mediterranean unibrow, so that you know what to expect when it comes to hair down there and everywhere, around the world.

Head

Let’s start at the top. Most races and cultures recognize the beauty in women growing their hair Rapunzel long. While men get the butt end of the double standard when it comes to long hair in America, Rastafarianism of Jamaica encourages long dreadlocks to signify the mane of the Lion of Judah. In the Jewish community, you can’t miss the long hair and side locks (called payots). These are worn in the traditional sects and are meant to separate the two different parts of the brain. Similarly, the Sikh faith practices Kesh, which allows for men to grow their hair long and tie it up in a turban.

Face

As far as beards go, the indigenous Ainu of Japan reign supreme. Ancestors of Mongolians, the Ainu men go their whole lives without touching a razor to their faces. This makes for a lot of highly-esteemed mountain-man beards. Honorable mention in this category goes to the Armenians and Persians, where hairiness is a mark of splendor . Both also seem to have an affinity for the unibrow along with other dark featured races (think Mediterranean, Indian, and some Hispanic cultures), though not exclusively. Tweezers are available just not so popular.

Chest and Arms

Middle Easterners, Mediterraneans, Greeks and Armenians all embrace their inner Tom Selleck. The chest carpet is viewed as a sign of masculinity and lucky for them, it’s a hereditary trait. These same nationalities also let the arm hair flow like the waters of Angel Falls. Italians, of both the male and female variety, earn a mention for their arm hair and they don’t shy away from the chest hair either. From a scientific perspective, chest and arm hair is an easy way to keep warm. In these regions, it’s just damn sexy and there’s plenty to go around.

Armpits

Everyone knows the stereotype that French women have wookie pits and aren’t afraid to show them. If you think about it, it’s more practical. Armpit hair reduces friction and keeps moisture away to prevent bacteria from forming (though it might not smell so fresh). Vanity is the only reason clean shaving the pits has spread worldwide. Since World War II, much of Europe has adopted the practice, though not all the world thinks it’s necessary. Women from Southeast Asia, Czech Republic, Brazil and Spain are still unafraid to go au

naturel when it comes to the underarms. For men, it goes either way, except for in Muslim cultures where it’s considered unclean.

Pubic

Thirty years ago, the downstairs afro was the norm. Nowadays, pornography dictates that it’s bare down there or no admittance (at least for women). From a real world perspective, there is some truth to this. The carpet doesn’t always have to match the drapes in length and ironically, the same cultures that are covered in hair usually have their pubic hair removed (Muslims equate pubes with armpits). East Asia (normally thought of as a hairless bunch) is the most prone to letting the bush grow long and lustrous but with globalization, grooming down there is on the rise. Friends, manscaping is all around us.

Legs

Across the board, leg shaving is almost strictly for the ladies, with the exception of certain athletes and guys who generally like to keep it baby soft. With that in mind, light haired girls have the advantage of being able to go a long time without shaving while dark haired girls are in a constant state of stubble warfare. In the Middle East and India, hairy legs aren’t a bother, (which is attributed to the fact that they keep themselves covered up and out of sight for much of the day.) While in the West women use their hairy legs as a way to express their feminism, other cultures just find it more convenient to stay bushy when a razor isn’t so easy to come by.

Not all Greek men have hairy chests just like not all Americans are overweight, burger fiends. However, it is true that a large majority of these cultures are covered in hair and they’re not ashamed of it. In Western culture, our disgust for hair is pushing the masses to resemble those creepy hairless cats. We’d do well to embrace our hairy heritage and take note of what many parts of the world believe: hair is natural beauty with an important purpose. Remember this when you get caught in a Russian winter with nothing but a windbreaker to stave off frostbite. If anything, it’s like a living blanket that, at a moment’s notice, can be sheared clean off.

Written By: Andrew Butler

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When it comes to Southeast Asia, everyone has the same guidebook and the same itinerary. Chances are you’ve island hopped through Thailand, trekked through Laos, hit a tranny bar here and there and you still haven’t left the crowd behind.

You’re stuck on the Banana Pancake Trail. It’s time to get off…

You need to do something unique; something everyone else is too scared to do. How about buying a Soviet-made motorbike for $300 and riding it from Saigon to Hanoi? Sound crazy? It is – but you can do it and OTP is well-prepared to guide you through one of the wildest adventures to be had in Southeast Asia.

Step 1:

Learn How to Ride

Vietnam is NOT the place to learn how to ride a motorbike. It’s dangerous and you must know at least the basics of riding. If you are still stateside, go to the DMV and take a basic safety course for about $250. Warm up to riding in Asia by renting smaller motorbikes in Thailand.

Step 2:

Make Some Rough Plans (Pick Your Starting Point)

It makes more sense to start in Hanoi if you are coming from China or northern Laos; Ho Chi Minh City if you are coming from Cambodia. Although Hanoi is an easier place to find a bike, either city will work. Buy the bike in one city, ride it to the other and sell it. Simple.

The north-south journey takes a month. If you are short on time, stick to the north and make the beautiful Hanoi-Dien Bien Phu-Sapa loop. Alternatively, you can seek out the EasyRiders, a local Vietnamese crew, that offers short and long-term tours on the back of their choppers.

Step 3:

Pick Your Highway

You don’t want to make too many plans in advance. Relax and give yourself the freedom to make up your exact route as you go along. You can choose to follow the coast for the beaches, swing into the misty mountains or carve along jungle valleys, beside waterfalls and through thatched hill-tribe villages. While most of the rides offer a great mix of scenery, there’s a fork in the road between Hoi An and Nha Trang.

Take the rural route through Dalat and up into the Central Highlands instead of coastal Highway 1. While Highway 1 connects all the coastal cities in one endless chain of life-threatening traffic, rural roads are usually secluded, peaceful, and incredibly scenic. The great north-south rural highway is called the Ho Chi Minh Highway – follow it across almost the entire country. Although there are far less services available along the rural route, the Vietnamese are incredibly warm people and will usually help you however they can. Besides, learning how to get out of such jams puts hair on your chest, don’t it?

When planning your route, remember that rain in the mountains, means sun on the beach and vice versa. Also, even when you need to travel along the coast, you can easily hop off Highway 1 and putz along smaller side roads. A great way to learn about the sights along the way is by asking the Easy Rider crew for tips.

Step 4:

Find a Bike…and Make it a Minsk

Once you arrive, the first step is to find a bike that won’t break the bank. This will require a few days, a bit of tenacity and some bargaining skills.

OTP likes the Soviet-made Minsk. It’s reliable, simple, durable, can handle all the dirt roads you will inevitably encounter and will carry all your crap through rain and shine. They’re also easy to find in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Since you’re too broke for a new Minsk (at $700), a used one can be nabbed for $200-$400, depending on how well you bargain.

Search for For Sale flyers in hostels, restaurants, internet cafes and on the street. If you are in Hanoi, swing past the Minsk Club to look for leads. Some people have been lucky and found bikes on the Internet before they even arrived.

Once you find a bike or two, its time to…

Step 5:

…Bargain Your Ass Off!

You’ll likely buy your Minsk from another backpacker – one who has a month’s less money and a month’s more experience bargaining like the Vietnamese. You’ll need to sit at the bargaining table with some tricks up your sleeve.

Find out the strengths and weaknesses of both you and the seller. His strength lies in the limited supply of bikes – so the more sellers you can play off each other, the better. His weakness is time and an immediate need for funds to continue traveling. To knock the price down you must find the weaknesses in the bike: point out what’s broken, how old it is – anything you can find.

Dance with a few sellers for a bit, then seal the deal over a few pitchers of bia hoi. Play your cards right and he’ll buy you all the spare parts you’ll need to sweeten the deal. Don’t fork over the cash until everything is to your satisfaction.

You get what you pay for. You may not need a brand-new bike, but you don’t necessarily want the cheapest bike you can find. Bargain for a good deal, but make sure the bike you buy will actually make it all the way to Hanoi.

Step 6:

Learn The Minsk

Now that you’ve got your Minsk, lift up her skirt up and see how she works. Tool around the Minsk Club Vietnam website then fine-tune your knowledge by reading our guide below.

Each Minsk has her own personality, complete with unique quirks. Have the seller explain how to start her when she won’t, fix her when she’s broke, and maintain her along the way. As with everything in nature, the older the bike, the more quirks she’ll likely to have.

Step 7:

Get Some Supplies

You’ll need to prepare yourself for this journey. Every rider should carry the tools and supplies he needs to make roadside repairs. Your bike should come with tools. Some extras you will need: spark plugs, chains, spare lights and brake cables.

As for the belongings you already have in your backpack – shed the junk, keep the basics. You’ll have to carry everything on the back of the bike, so keep it lightweight. Check our Packing 101 Guide for assistance.

Step 8:

Tune Her Up

Wheel her to a mechanic for a full rub-down. Make sure the less obvious components are working as well: namely, the horn, brakes and lights. Spy on how the mechanic systematically checks each part of the Minsk and use what you learn as a guide to fixing her up on your own later.

Once she is fully tuned, you will have to keep her in good condition. Learn about daily maintenance and you will save yourself a lot of breakdowns.

Step 9:

Rules of the Road

You’re almost ready to take off. The streets of Hanoi might seem like a massive clusterfuck, but don’t stress – there’s a method to the madness. Here’ s the breakdown:

Might is right. Big-ass trucks and tourist buses dominate the center of the road, normal trucks and cars are in the middle and motorcyclists are on the shoulder. Passing is the norm in Vietnam and even the semi-trailers will swing into the opposite lane to pass someone. Stay alert. Typically you drive your bike until you approach another driver from the rear, then honk twice as a friendly signal and pass them on the left side. Repeat all day.

Getting out of the cities can be the hardest bit. Warm up by hiring a motorcycle taxi and riding around the city to get a feel for the flow of traffic. Repeat until you feel comfortable enough to take off. There is no shame in paying a motorcycle taxi driver $5 to guide you to the outskirts of the city on your first day.

Step 10:

Take Off and Let Go

You now have freedom from itineraries, fixed bus schedules and group tours; you can go anywhere and stop as long as you like.. Just you, the Minsk and the road.

Step 11:

Harness your Chi and Focus Your Zen

There’s something spiritual about embarking on an adventure like this. Here’s a few tips on how to get your Zen on.

• Slow down. As you plan out each leg of the journey, reign in your ambitions. Remember that you are no longer traveling by bus – driving a motorbike is physically exhausting. You feel every last mile and you are always at the mercy of the weather. The roads are windy, slow and not always paved.
• Bring yourself into the moment. The constant fear that death lurks around each corner strips away all your distant concerns and brings you to the here and now. You may never do something like this again, so make sure your mind is fully appreciating it and not off in the clouds.
• Accept setbacks and delays with a smile. When breakdowns happen on the road – and they will – learn to embrace them as a chance to slow down and pause in a part of Vietnam you normally would have sped past. Take five minutes to admire the view of the jungle before getting down to work. Remember, delays don’t exist. You have nowhere to be but here, in the moment. Smile.
• Open yourself to the endless possibilities of the road. Take as many detours as you like. Check out the small villages, take the road that isn’t on your map and accept the offers to have tea with local families. Vietnamese visas typically last one month, but you are free to extend yours and stay another month or two. And, rumor has it, if you carry enough US dollars, you might be able to use some baksheesh to illegally sneak your bike into Cambodia or Laos.
• Stick it to Mass Tourism. By taking this bike ride on your own, you have circumvented the middleman between you and your host country. As you journey farther into the misty mountains and away from the tourist trail, you will transcend mass tourism and encounter a more fundamental human relationship with your host country. Differences in nationality, beliefs, age, and income will disappear. While other backpackers are paying $20 a night for “authentic homestays,” your entire journey will transform into one enormous authentic experience.

As you pull away from Saigon, you’ll taste true freedom. As you chase the sunset along Vietnam’s golden coastline, you’ll arrive in the present moment. As you slip into top gear and rip alongside endless fields of rice paddies, you’ll discover what it feels like to be young and alive. That is, of course, how we should feel all the time. But sometimes it takes a bit of old-fashioned adventure to remind us.

Written By: Mark Ayling

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Americans are used to being kicked in the nuts every time we buy a plane ticket. So when we see a ticket from Barcelona to London for 1€ ($1.50), we automatically assume its a scam. It is and it isn’t. Here are 10 tips to cutting through the bullshit and squeezing the most out of budget flights in Europe:

#1: Don’t Believe the Hype – Calculate the “True Cost”

Many disillusioned travelers have labeled RyanAir Lyin’Air and EasyJet SleazyJet when they realize their 5€ ticket actually costs far more than advertised.

Don’t believe the hype. These fares are cheap compared to traditional carriers, but they are not give-aways. 1€ fares are just advertisement. You must pay around 20-30€ more in taxes. Other clever add-ons you will pay for: checked luggage, transport to some airports, flight insurance, and overweight carry-on baggage.

To find the “true cost”, you have to enter your credit card information and go to the very last page on the website – everything short of actually purchasing the ticket. Then factor in the additional charges mentioned below. Budgeting 5€ per flight is unrealistic. 30-50€ is more sensible, and yet still crazy cheap.

#2: Know Your Options

RyanAir is not the only budget airline. If you only have time to shop, check www.skyscanner.net. It aggregates results from a number of airlines. Although their list is not exhaustive, you can often find better deals on national airlines.

A side note:

flights are generally cheaper traveling north-south than east-west. Northern Europeans flock to the south for their vacations and the high-traffic drops the cost. East-west travel is less common and therefore more expensive.

#3: Book Early

The earlier you book the cheaper you fly. Simple. SkyScanner has a wonderful tool where you can search for the cheapest tickets in a given month (or even a year).

#4: Be Flexible

Flexibility is a crucial element in travel – and budget airlines are no exception. You must be flexible about the day, time and even destination of your flight. But don’t assume that “being flexible” means that you can marinate for a week in an Amsterdam coffee shop and then book your flight for the following day. Often times, leaving just one day earlier/later will cost a fraction of the price. For the cheapest flights, be prepared to fly at 7 AM on a Wednesday morning. If you’re really broke (and/or paranoid about making that cheap flight on time), consider sleeping in the airport. Read more here: www.SleepingInAirports.com.

#5: Skip the Peanuts

Everything on budget airlines costs extra – not just the peanuts. Be careful when purchasing your tickets online. RyanAir will bring you to a page full of pre-checked options, all of which you must un-check, or else you will be charged extra for each one. Travel insurance, SMS notification, or Priority boarding? Hell no. Failing to un-check these boxes will cost you an arm and a leg.

#6: Check Location and Connection Times

Many of RyanAir’s flights actually go to entirely different cities, most notably those to Brussels (Charleroi), Paris (Beauvais), Venice (Treviso), Frankfurt (Hahn), Stockholm (Skavsta), Barcelona (Girona & Reus). The flights are cheap because you are flying to some remote airport, then forced to pay 10-15€ for a bus into the city.

Furthermore, you could royally screw yourself if you overlook the details of your connecting flights. Don’t expect to fly to Barcelona on RyanAir and make a 2-hour connection for your flight across the Atlantic. RyanAir uses a different airport and you won’t make the connection.

That is not to say that these distant airports are a bad option. A 10€ flight with a 10€ bus ride is still only 20€. But if you fly into Paris at 8 PM, don’t plan a date in the Latin Quarter at 9:30PM. Factor in that 1.5 hr bus ride and you should be fine.

#7: Check in Online

Don’t make this amateur mistake. Low-cost airlines are cheap because they have low-costs – i.e. very few staff members. They don’t want a huge line of people waiting to check in for each flight, so they charge 30€ to check-in in person. Check in online, print out your ticket, and spend your 30€ on something more worthwhile.

#8: Pack Light…Really, Really, Light

This is perhaps the most important rule. Read carefully.

Budget Airlines typically allow one carry-on bag for free. Checked luggage is extra. Rules vary for each airline, but typically your carry-on bag must weigh less than 15 kilos and it must fit within the stipulated dimensions. To give you an idea, a small roller bag or a school backpack is acceptable, but your typical “backpacker’s backpack” will not fly. You will have to check it and pay extra. The same goes for any carry-ons over 15 kilos.

More rules apply to checked luggage. Not only do you have to pay to check your baggage, but it also must weigh less than 15 kilos. Expect to pay a hefty fee if your bag is too heavy. A 30-kilo bag will cost you a pretty penny.

The good news is a lot of airports have storage lockers. If plan to fly around on the cheap in Europe, make sure you get a daypack with your backpack. That way, you can lock up your bigger backpack at the airport (daily rates are usually pretty cheap but can add up if you leave it there for weeks) and carry-on your daypack.

#9: Do a Cost/Benefit Analysis

So pull out that calculator and add up all the extra fees and hidden charges – and don’t forget to consider time/convenience. Is it worth it to fly? It is often cheaper to take the train or bus, say, from Paris to Brussels or London.

#10: Lastly, Don’t Over-Do It

Europe is a continent that is supposed to be savored. Rushing to and from the airports will kill the vibes. Budget airlines are only your friend if you use them wisely. They allow you to travel in a couple distant countries in one trip – not to link together a half dozen flights to nearby cities in a span of two weeks.

So if you only have a few weeks, pick a few cities in a few different countries and use them as bases to explore the surrounding areas.

…and don’t forget: RyanAir didn’t exist when your mom and dad traveled in Europe. There is always the train or bus.

Written By: Mark Ayling

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There is a new travel trend on the rise far from luxury hotels and fancy dinners. Off Track Planet, dedicated to independent travel lifestyles, is releasing their first self-published magazine featuring a New York City guide to getting drunk, partying, having sex, eating and sleeping on a “backpackers” budget…OTP likes to think, “It’s the unisex MAXIM magazine of travel guides”. So why all the buzz? because youth travel is on the rise and OTP has created something that no one in the U.S. has done so far…A way to make travel appealing to young adults in America.

The magazine will feature articles such as “Where to Party your F*cking Ass Off in NYC”, “A guide to the best NYC street foods”, “Fashion: Cheap Chic under $20″, “5 Places to have Sex in NYC”, including NYC hostel reviews, an adventure sports guide, a focus on local art, music and sub-cultures (like tattoos and dirty hipsters). But it’s not all completely fun and games, the magazine will also provide a thorough list of internship, work, study and volunteer opportunities available throughout NYC.

Although OTP’s main focus is to inspire young Americans to go abroad, NYC was chosen as their featured destination because it is “the the largest melting pot in the world and the most feasible option for us at this point”. With the success of issue 1 though, they hope to bring it to the global stage next.

The people at Off Track Planet are currently out raising the funds necessary to successfully launch the magazine with 30k printed copies to be distributed at hostels, college campuses and other travel/youth related retailers all throughout the north east coast (NYC, Washington D.C., Boston, Philadelphia) by June 15th. The magazine will also be available through their website online at http://offtrackplanet.com – Check out a demo of the magazine below.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING, CONTACT: Freddie@OffTrackPlanet.com

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Traveling is about keeping it real with your surroundings, yet  it’s easy to get lost in the lure of nerdy  gadgetry these days (check out  “5 Gadgets That May Ruin Your Backpacking Experience”). Things like GPS systems can keep you from getting down and dirty with locals (just ask for directions, stupid!). However, for those of you who are physically unable to unplug, we give you OTP’s 10 Most Useful Travel Gadgets of 2010.

Water Filter

Don’t drink the water. You’ll hear it over and over again in just about every country. In fact, you may find that it’s cheaper to buy booze than it is water. Enter the MSR Miox. This little flashlight-sized device only requires batteries to transform that putrid, disease-ridden water into something more drinkable. There’s also the Steripen, which uses ultraviolet rays to turn dirty into liquid clean goodness. Of course, you may prefer the excuse of choosing booze over water but at just over a hundred bucks, it’ll probably save you some money and a few hangovers.

Bag Protector

After a good night’s sleep, the last thing you want to wake up to is finding out someone jacked your shit . In all likelihood, as long as you’re alert and careful, this won’t happen. But if you’re the paranoid type, the Doberman Bag Protector is a dually triggered alarm system (meaning there is both a motion sensor and a pull pin). The device can be attached to just about anything and when triggered, emits a 100 decibel alarm. This is on par with the sound of a lawnmower, which should be the most obnoxious criminal deterrent known to man.

Solar Powered Backpack

This is starting to get out of hand. Whatever happened to the days of Thoreau, where serenity is found in the simple things in life? Screw it, if he were around today, Thoreau would be putting his money on the solar powered backpack too. Both Voltaic and Reware offer backpacks equipped with solar panels that can power up most 12-volt devices if needed. Since a solar powered backpack is more of a luxury than a necessity, the added superpowers (Electroman) come at a higher price than other packs with a sacrifice in size. Choose wisely.

Global Phone

A cell phone is most definitely on the no fly list for those looking to rough it. But if you were to get a phone, getting one made by National Geographic still maintains some ruggedness and can be used in over 100 countries. There are several options available: rent a phone for eighteen dollars a month if it’s a short trip or buy one for a little under two hundred bucks. Mobal also offer a cheaper alternative if National Geographic rubs you the wrong way. Be sure to store this in a safe place for emergencies and to get the most out of your experience, refrain from using it too often.

Indestructible Travel Case

The Pelican Micro Case is both waterproof and can withstand up to 5,000 lbs. of pressure (like if an elephant decided to take a nap on your travel case). While we find it difficult to believe a travel case is this powerful, Pelican’s website promises your valuables will stay safe and dry. If that makes you afraid that someday it might come after you, consult a priest on the procedures of destroying an indestructible object.

Swiss Army Flash

Adventurous tech nerds, this one will thoroughly excite you. With all the normal features of the Swiss army knife, this gadget also comes with a flash drive (with multiple memory options) as well a powerful LED light. There’s also a ballpoint pen thrown in there for good measure. Sure, you probably won’t find yourself in the throes of the wild, fighting for your survival (and if you did, what would be the purpose of a flash drive?) but, knowing you’ve got the just-in-case tools for almost everything will keep your nerdy mind at peace. Should you in fact be lost in a strange country’s wilderness and become worried about digital storage, this baby’s got your back.

USB Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries can get a little pricey but their longevity is worth the extra cost (plus recycling batteries in this way is good for the environment, so score). After plugging them into any USB port with a power source, USB Cell’s rechargeable batteries get a second life. The charger is embedded into the battery so when the top is taken off, and they’re plugged in, you’re good to go. Make sure to keep them safe (perhaps in the indestructible case?) as just two cost about as much as twenty alkalines.

Flip Video

Here’s a good alternative to the all-powerful digital camera. The Flip video is reasonably priced and offers good quality videos that are stored on four or eight GB memory. The device is about the size of your typical digital camera with just a little bit more girth (like your dad, only the Flip video doesn’t love your little brother more). The stock Flip Ultra comes with 120 minutes of recording memory at about the same price as a good quality camera. While a picture is worth a thousand words, how much is a crisp video of say, Rio’s Carnival, worth?

Stash Sandals

This one’s perfect for the paranoid tech nerd who thinks the government’s after them. Reef’s Stash sandals have a nifty little tray in the heel that slides out to hold valuables you’d rather not leave sitting on a beach towel. Also, as the name suggests, they could be used to hide unmentionables that the government is really after (should you find yourself in possession of such items). Since they are sandals, we’re not sure how comfortable you’d be wearing these anywhere where a shoe could potentially be lost (like raging, drunken beach dance parties). Nonetheless, it is a clever alternative to worrying about being stuck in the Matrix because you lost the red pill.

150-Country Travel Adapter and Converter

Yes, we said to leave most of the electronics at home, but we all know you’re not going to listen. So rather than cleverly trying to sneak your techy trash overseas only to find you have no way to charge it, this should save you the embarrassment. Offered by Hammacher Schlemmer and USBgeek.com, not only can this device provide power for any AC powered device, it also has USB plugs, saving the trouble of carrying around multiple unwieldy chargers. So while you’re charging your iPod, cell phone and digital camera all at the same time, you can actually go out and enjoy some scenery instead of babysitting your electronics.

Before you go out and blow all your spending money on every one of these gadgets, remember that traveling is more about the experience than what you bring with you. As Samuel Johnson once said, “The use of traveling is to regulate imagination by reality, and instead of thinking how things may be, to see them as they are.” Instead of trying to recreate the luxuries of home, see how locals cope. That’s not to say you shouldn’t take advantage of some of the gadgets built for travel, just don’t overdo it. The trick is to find that balance, between what you need and what you could do without, based on how you want to travel and where you want to go.

Written By: Andrew Butler

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Sex in this city can be tricky. Millions of people are all up in your personal space every minute of the day. So where can you go to play a game of hide the hot dog?

Prospect Park

Whereas its difficult to get away from tourists and their curious kids in Central Park, Prospect Park in Brooklyn is full of secluded corners, shady shrubs and hidden benches. Getting laid is easy in this landscape. The beauty of the greenery, lakes (complete with swans, which are damn sexy), mossy bridges and waterfalls should get you in the mood for some park lovin’ quick. Take an off-trail walk across the Long Meadow and set yourself up under a nice overgrown tree. Just watch the squirrels, they’re always out collecting nuts.

A Big-Enough Bathroom

The Cove, Williamsburg - Now, New York is known for its lack of elbow room. Most bars and restaurants have bathrooms the size of broom closets so getting into a comfortable, cramp-free, position is nearly impossible. But every now and then, OTP has come across bathrooms large enough for some extra curriculars. At the Cove in Williamsburg, space and privacy is not an issue. The John is downstairs and has several stalls to choose from. On Monday nights they host a Bollywood-themed party night. For whatever reason, not many people are interested in attending. This frees up their bathroom for some groping and grinding.

Mission: Hotel Break In

Manhattan is loaded with ritzy, beautiful hotels. Sneaking up to the roof of these luxury buildings is surprisingly easy you just have to grow a pair. With so many people in and out of the door daily, its difficult for staff to keep track of the chaos. This is advantageous when you’re looking to get rooftop raunchy. Stroll casually into the lobby, make your way confidently to the elevator, hit the top button and ride. Follow your way up the last set of stairs and you got yourself some booty with a killer view. If you get caught at any point of your journey, pretending you speaka no English is your best bet.

And while you’re getting there:

Elevator Go Up

Since buildings in this vertical city are tall, it may take some time to get to the top. We see no reason to waste this precious alone time. Either pull the stop button to insure privacy or go balls to the wall and assume nobody will board the lift between lobby and roof. Either way, make it quick or else the repairman will be your worst enemy.

Sexy Parties

Rubulad’s (338 Flushing Ave., Brooklyn)

This party is basically designed to get you drunk, high and laid. Happening every first Friday of the month in a huge warehouse, this party makes it easy to get your groove on. Each room in the space is an explosion of art. Since people show up practically naked as is, no time is wasted on undressing and the absinthe served up all night instantly breaks the ice. They wouldn’t make a room entirely covered in pillows if they didn’t want you to get extra comfortable. Take the hint.

One Place NOT to Have Sex:

The Subway

It will be tempting after a long night of partying to have sex en route but, we highly recommend you don’t. For one, whipping out your tenders and exposing them to the subway elements is not smart as the entire train system is grimy, dirty and will give you diseases modern medicine has yet to discover. Second, the police jumps in and out of even the emptiest of train cars at night and if you’re caught with your pants down, they will harass you until all eternity. Lastly, you will miss your stop and end up sucked into perpetual waiting and train riding to find your way home.

Instead:

Taxi Time

If you’re sure that getting laid is in your immediate future, scrounge up a few bucks and take a cab instead of the subway.  New York city cabbies have seen and heard everything so getting busy on their backseats shouldn’t put another notch in their belts.  Most cab drivers have no idea where they’re going 90% of the time so you’ve got time for foreplay and a few moments of awkward silence afterward

There’s no doubt about it, New York makes you horny. It’s an eye candy store with a wide selection of goods. Pick yourself up something sweet (or slutty) and hit the town; there’s lots of exploring to do.

Written By: Anna Starostinetskaya

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Oh wow, this was a real toughie here. One of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make. It was a tight race all the way to the end, but there could only be one. After many long hours of deliberation…a couple punches to the head, a black eye and bloody nose later we have decided. First off, thanks to Eurail.com & Travellerspoint.com for making this contest possible!

And the winner is…

Louise Brown!

Why Louise…

We laughed, we cried, we held each other. We practically wanted to hand over our own paychecks to Louise by the time the video was over. She is a great presenter who is also passionate, witty and deserving. Congrats Louise, make us proud!

Honorable Mention, Beekah Does Europe…

Beekah, we LOVED your enthusiasm and creativity. We wish there was another pass to giveaway!

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO SUBMITTED A VIDEO TO THE CONTEST, LOOK FORWARD TO OUR NEXT GIVEAWAY!!

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What the F*ck is Beer Can Regatta?

Making ships from beer cans and racing them (the regatta part). Well why the f*ck not?

According to drunken legend, this yearly event takes place in Darwin, Australia and has something to do with cyclone Tracey devastating the area in 1974 which caused people to drink lots of beer (because they were depressed? Water was scarce?). No recycling programs were in effect so, given the large amount of empty beer cans littering the beach, those creative Australians decided to build boats to resolve the issue.  Now it’s a full-on annual festival with the next one coming up on August 8, 2010.

While some boats are nothing more than dinky rafts, others resemble yachts even P-Diddy would be proud of.  Whatever your choice of floating beer vehicle, some rules do apply.  Cleverly listed as the  “10 Can-mandments” (get it? Like commandments but with cans and without Moses), the rules of the Regatta are as follows:

THE TEN CAN-MANDMENTS

1. Thou shalt enter the event in the right spirit
2. Thou shalt build the craft of cans.
3. The craft shall float by cans alone.
4. Thou shalt not drown.
5. Thou shalt not take the name of the craft in vain. Any craft bearing signs lettering that may be offensive will be barred.
6. Thou shalt not drift from the straight and narrow and end up at Mandorah.
7. Thou shalt not protest too much.
8. Thou shall honor thy Committee.
9. Thou shalt not commit adultery (nothing really to do with the Regatta, but it gives us an air of responsibility and respect.)
10. Thou shalt go back and read the first can-mandment again.

There is also a $50 entry fee that must be paid before 9:00 a.m. on the day of the festival.  Now that we got all the details out of the way, let’s build you a kick ass beer boat.

Beer Boat Building 101

Step 1: Materials

From now until August, you will likely need to drink at least a 6 pack per day to get enough materials for the Regatta (think of it as training). Although the boat must be made mostly of beer cans, using a little fiberglass or wood here and there will help you stay afloat.

Step 2: Can-struction (it just never ends with these guys)

Tape cans together in pairs with open ends facing each other.  Get a few meters of taped cans going and use them as you would planks.  You can construct a frame using wood and add durability by stringing chicken wire across your wood frame.  Then attach your beer can planks to make a large sheet.  This will float and looks like a raft.

Step 2.5: Take a Beer Break

Why not? Plus you get more building materials. Win win.

Step 3: Get crafty

You can use construction methods described in boat-building how-tos, just swap beer cans whenever the instructions call for any kind of building materials. Here are a few to look at: Instructables.com, 6 minute Youtube Instruction Video and the picture at left of a boat plan.

Step 4: Sinking

If you followed our steps closely, you’re likely slowly sinking to the bottom of the ocean. For this situation, make sure to pack a life jacket. What do you do with all the leftover beer cans?

Maxim magazine recently put out an article featuring 25 awesome things made out of beer cans.  Give it a browse, maybe something less complicated than a boat, like a beer teddy bear, is more up your alley.  You can also just stick a beer in a chicken’s butt and contribute to the Regatta by grilling up some flavorful bird.  Here’s the recipe.

Even if you’re not very skilled at beer can construction, you can participate in other Beer Can Regatta festivities (for instance the thong throwing contest, like flip flops not panties, unfortunately).  On top of everything, all proceeds of the event are donated to local charitable causes which is even more reason to drink, eat, build boats, throw thongs and be merry.  Cheers!

Written By:  Anna Starostinetskaya

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So you’re in Madrid and looking to get tatted? Madrid’s reputation as a world center of art is home to some of the best tattoo artists in Europe.  Whether you want to commemorate the trip of a lifetime or you’ve been inspired to get some trippy shit down your sleeve, Madrid’s tattoo parlors will have you covered (literally).  Based on their best qualities, OTP has compiled this list of shops to get you properly tatted-up:

First off…
What is more important to you, price or quality?  If price is paramount, pick from any of the dime-a-dozen tattoo joints along Calle de Montera between Plaza del Sol and Gran Via. Keep reading if you want something with more character and style.

Second, Go to Calle de Fuencarral
Catch the metro to Gran Via and walk north along c/Fuencarral.  Most of Madri’s tattoo parlors are either on this street or just off it in the neighboring barrios of Malasana and Chueca.  The following are OTP’s stand-out spots.

Finally, Pick a Shop…

Mao & Cathy Tattoo

Most Experienced

The oldest and most well-known tattoo shop in Spain.  Mao & Cathy’s reputation rests upon professionalism and experience unrivaled in Madrid.  Over the last 20+ years, they’ve continually hosted world-class artists including Robert Hernandez (now at Vitamin Tattoo).  Such success draws a large crowd, so reservations are advised.  Mao & Cathy is a mandatory stop, but let’s step back onto c/Fuencarral and check out some other places.

Contact:
http://www.myspace.com/maoycathy
Corredera alta de San Pablo, 6
915311973

*NO PIERCING

True Love Tattoo

Perfection in Old School Style

If you’re less ”Zen” and more ”punk,” check out True Love, run by El Bara,a friendly Argentine widely respected amongst Madrid’s tattoo artists.  The studio’s blood-red interior nicely contrasts the all-black uniform of its hard-rockin’ clientele. El Bara is famous for creatively fusing the retro swagger of Malasana with the old-school style made popular by ”Sailor Jerry” in the 1950s. Any artist at True Love can hook you up, but if you want El Bara, you’d better make reservations two months ahead.

Contact:
www.tattoosbybara.com
Velarde, 22 (near Plaza del Dos de Mayo)
680 204 724

La Mano Zurda

Most Innovative

Tattoos are increasingly respected art form and at La Mano Zurda, the needle and the paintbrush are held in equally high regard.  In addition to an excellent tattoo studio, it boasts an abstract art gallery and an art academy that offers drawing or tattooing classes.  The studio’s decor is Zen meets punk and their eclectic tattoo style embodies everything in between.

Contact:

C/ Fuencarral, 92, at intersection of C/ Apodaca
http://www.lamanozurda.com/
91 522 87 33
info@lamanozurda.com

Por Vida

The Most Unpretentiousness

Don’t let the dark black storefront intimidate you - Por Vida is one of the most welcoming places we found. Check it out for yourself and join the scores of Madrilos who feel at home at Por Vida.  The friendly staff speaks excellent English and are happy to help you design a tattoo that you can proudly rock for life, that is Por Vida.

Contact:
Fuencarral 43
925 220 720
http://myspace.com/porvidamadriz

Tattoo Magic

Most Dependable

Just down the street is Tattoo Magic. They’ve been tatting Madrilenos for 8 years and their new studio rests smack in the middle of c/ Fuencarral. Their ability to remain in the center of it all is a testament to their unwavering popularity with locals. Despite being one of the larger studios, they maintain their success by keeping their levels of artistic ability high and levels of B.S. The numerous awards hanging from their walls prove that Tattoo Magic is a safe bet.

Contact:
28 c/ Fuencarral.
915215074
http://www.tattoomagic.net/

Vitamin Tattoo

The Most Original

Lastly, we have Vitamin Tattoo, the home of the world-famous Robert Hernandez. Any of the above shops can whip up whatever tat you have in mind but odds are you couldn’t think up anything that competes with Robert Hernandez’ sinister creations.  Picture images pulled from the baddest depths of rock and roll and more realistic than your worst nightmare. So don’t come here for a cute little star on your ankle.  If you want a tat of Gene Simmons so life-like it will give Grandma a heart attack, then you’ve found your man.  Browse through the photos on his website or watch this video to see if he’s your cup of tea.

Contact:
Calle de La Unin, 4
915 488 766
Website: http://www.rhernandeztattoos.com/
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/roberthernandeztattoos
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yii1lbJ7UeI

En Fin…

Whether you prefer experience, dependability, familiarity or the unique styles of El Bara and Robert Hernandez, Madrid’s the spot for you to get some ink done.  So what are you waiting for? Find your cojones and let Madrid’s finest artists make your 2010 EuroTrip one you’ll always remember.

Post Tat Pep Talk

OTP Tip: If this is your first tattoo, keep in mind you will need to take care of it once its needled on your skin. This means that despite your grimy hostel existence, you will need to keep it clean and moisturized. NEVER USE VITAMIN E RICH LOTION; it will suck the tattoo right off your skin. Scented lotions are bad too. Just get the stuff your shop of choice sells and you should be fine. Make an effort to keep it out of the sun for a little while as well.

Written By: Mark Ayling

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Whether you’re just making a pit-stop on a EuroRail marathon tour or spending a year at one of Madrid’s universities, OTP will help you cut past the crowds and get straight into the heart of Spain’s vibrant capital, without busting a whole in your wallet. Ready to start? Here’s a list of 10 things you can’t miss while in Madrid.

Historical Madrid on the Cheap

Lucky for you, the most historical sights in Madrid are free. The Spanish are a social people, so it makes sense that Madrid’s most important public monuments are the large plazas where Madrileno’s (the people of Madrid) congregate to chat and people-watch. Each of Madrid’s neighborhoods have their own plazas, but the largest and most central are: Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Plaza de la Villa and the marvelous Plaza de Oriente. The latter opens up to the former royal palace, El Palacio Real. You have to pay to enter the palace, but it is enjoyable to simply wander around its gardens for free.

Hang with Dali and Picasso

Anyone who leaves Madrid without visiting at least one of its world-famous museums deserves a smackdown. The most famous three, Museo del Prado, Centro de Arte Reina Sofia, and Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, collectively hold more masterpieces than you could possibly absorb in a weekend. Even the most philistine among us can appreciate Picasso’s Guernica or anything by Dali. The first two museums are free on Sundays. Bring your student card for a discount! But there are many other smaller gems, including our personal favorite: Museo Sorolla (free for students).

Salir de Tapas

Hopping from bar to bar sampling tapas (bite-sized bar snacks) is one of the most enjoyable Spanish traditions. Going out for tapas typically involves having a drink and a nibble at a half dozen bars, all of which are, loud, standing-room-only, and loads of fun. Though tapas traditionally come free with your drinks, Spain is drifting towards pay-per-tapa system. OTP has scraped up some places that defy the trend. Try El Tigre in Chueca for the best free tapas in Madrid. The most concentrated areas of tapas bars are in La Latina (especially Calle de Cava Baja and C. de Huertas).

OTP TIP

When Spaniards eat tapas, they throw their trash on the floor, so check the ground of wherever you go: the dirtier the floor, the better the tapas.

Jam to Flamenco Guitar

Music is a vital element of Spanish culture. No visit to the birthplace of flamenco would be complete without seeing a live show. Most flamenco bars charge 30 euros to enter ($45) and that’s no bueno. Our suggestion? Go to La Solea in La Latina where you’ll get free admission when you order a copa of wine, settle down in the smoky bar and let the gypsy-influenced rhythms carry you away.

Get Lost in the Barrios

Most tourists will hang around central Madrid, near Plaza Mayor and Plaza del Sol. Give it the obligatory gander, and then check out one of the city’s offbeat barrios, (neighborhoods). All are within walking distance and each offers something different: the funky old-skool vibes of Malasana, the live music and nightlife in Huertas, or the stylish restaurants of Madrid’s gay barrio, Chueca. Forget your guidebook and wander through each of them until you discover your own special corner of Madrid.

Pick Up Some Spanish Style

No, the Spanish don’t have sexier DNA; it’s the way they dress. Madrid is the home of Spanish style, and it’s not hard to find something to bring back home. If the ritzy boutiques of Salamanca are not for you, head over to Malasaña, Gran Via or Calle de Fuencarral to find what you need. If you’re counting your last Euros, hold out till Sunday to bargain in El Rastro flea market.

Eat Like a Local

A fun introduction to Madrid’s food is El Mercado de San Miguel. The glass and metal building contains dozens of kiosks showcasing a wide variety of Spanish cuisine. You can easily spend a few hours here stuffing your cheeks with a bit of everything. For a cheap, authentic meal, go to Casa Mingo next to the Principe Pio metro stop. Also, Cien Montaditos (the menu consists of 100 little mini-sandwiches) is a chain of cheap restaurants. It’s hard to argue with a montadito and a beer for 1.20 Euros.

OTP Tips:

Eating Out Formula for the “so broke it ain’t no joke” (about 5 Euros per day) : tortilla (potato omelet) for breakfast 1 euro‚ bocadillos (sandwiches) for lunch from the Museo de Jamon (locations everywhere), and El Tigre for a dinner of tapas (see #3).

Have a Fridge at Your Disposal? Go to Supersol, Dia or any other local supermarket. Stock up on sliced meat, cheese and bread (label the packages with your name and date so people at the hostel feel guiltier stealing them) and make your own damn bocadillos!

Drink Like a Local

Memorize this word: Botellon. Every weekend, thousands of young people gather in plazas to drink wine under the stars before going out. This practice, called the botellon, is widespread across all of Spain, especially in the summer. Do as the locals and mix yourself a calimocho: 2 parts red wine and 1 part coca-cola. Don’t shy away from wine in boxes. Don Simon boxes run you about a euro and the contents are of better quality than the crap you’re paying 6 bucks for in the states.

Best places to botellon: Plaza de Espana and Plaza de Santa Ana between 10-2 AM.

By the way…Drinking in public is technically illegal in Madrid and although the law is rarely enforced. You don’t need to brown bag and look over your shoulder, but just don’t piss on anybody – follow the locals.

Dance Like a Local

Avoid the pijo (posh) discos and go where the students are. Tupperware (bar) or Palma III (disco) in Malasana will bring out the booty shaker in you. A safe bet is to head to Plaza de Santa Ana, talk to the club promoters passing out flyers, pick a place and dance till the metro opens up at 6 AM.

Lazy Sunday

After you’ve done all the above, wrap up with a lazy Sunday, Madrid-style. Here’s the plan:

• Wake up at the crack of noon and make your way to the La Latina neighborhood to catch El Rastro flea market before it closes at 3. It’s the largest outdoor market in Europe and the whole city comes out for it every week. You can buy anything from a scarf to a chicken at this place. Buying nothing at all is fine; the bustling vibe is the most exciting part anyway.

• Then migrate with the Madrilenos to El Retiro park to while away the afternoon. Thousands of people lounge on the grass and a massive drum circle starts up next to the lake.

Not active enough for you? Rent a rowboat for 4 euros and row around the lake till your arms fall off.

If you are able to squeeze half of these activities between your siestas, you’ll walk away from Madrid having experienced a side of the city most visitors never see. So what are you waiting for? Flamenco, tapas, and fiestas beckon.

Written By: Mark Ayling

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