"The first six rows in the main cabin are reserved for our Premier and Economy Plus passengers," announced the flight attendant as passengers boarded a recent United Airlines flight. She continued with a sales pitch for Economy Plus, telling passengers they could upgrade instantly to a seat with additional leg room for a modest $29 fee on our short flight to Denver. The flight attendant concluded the announcement by admonishing coach passengers who had not purchased upgrades that they were prohibited from moving forward into the Economy Plus section.

If you’re female and ever had to go, you know the problem. Whether it’s off the Jersey turnpike or a hiking trail, women-on-the-go know what it’s like to assume the squatting position.

For those who prefer not to squat, there’s something called the female urinary device. The funnel-like contraption, which has been the subject of various patents going back to 1922, lets women urinate standing up. But most devices are disposable and made of paper or plastic, like the P-Mate, Whizzy, or T-Pee.

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Death Valley
California

"Not only is Death Valley the hottest and driest location in North America, it also has the lowest elevation," Cantore says. "Standing 270 feet below sea level, where temperatures reach a scorching 127 degrees, is definitely outrageous." Snow caps the highest peaks during winter’s cool days and chilly nights. Mild springs are the most popular time to visit, but summer approaches as early as May. 760-786-3200; nps.gov/deva

Breaux Bridge
Louisiana

I’ve long been a supporter of eco-tourism and have tried (and many times failed) to be a fully-aware eco-traveler myself. In this world of technology and modern equipment, it’s sometimes hard to find your way back to the basics and just enjoy travel for what it is rather than enjoy it alongside all of the gadgets and gizmos that we’re buried under in this 21st century.

In December, travelers will be able to board a $1.4 billion ship five years in the making.

After five years of planning and construction, Royal Caribbean is unveiling the Oasis of the Seas, a $1.4 billion ship that will be the largest and tallest cruise liner in the world when it takes its maiden voyage this December.

At 1,184 feet from stem to stern, it’s nearly as long as the Empire State building is tall–while rivaling the amenities of any world-class Las Vegas resort. A crew of roughly 2,160 will man 18 decks and tend to 5,400 passengers (assuming two per room).