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Ugly Americans?
So yesterday… Up and coming tourists in need of cultural sensitivity training: the Chinese! “The would-be tourists are being told that while spitting, slurping food and cutting in line may merely disgust people at home, they are sometimes not tolerated at all abroad.” My favorite complaint: spitting in the hotel room. (photo: Reuters)

Inflation
It’s not just the airlines tinkering with their frequent flyer programs. Hotel loyalty programs are in flux, too. Hilton recently raised their redemption rates, and Starwood is now apparently considering following suit. (via View from the Wing)

The exciting world of risk analysis
Travel to dangerous places? Good luck getting life insurance.

“World’s Wackiest Museums”
Make this your global museum checklist. I have only hit one — the Museum of Bad Art. The pointillist rendering of a man on a toilet is truly sensational. (via Gadling)

Identity theft a-go-go
After a trip, once your miles post to your account, shred your boarding passes to avoid identity theft. A shocking account of how wide open British Airways’ (and potentially other airlines’) passenger information is.

Relaxation and rejuvenation
Mobil Travel Guide ranks the world’s best spas. Need something closer to home? Check the Spa Finder Spa Guide.