Monday, April 16, 2012

CNNGo.com

CNNGo.com

Stone the crows: It's the Sydney Comedy Festival!

Posted: 15 Apr 2012 02:55 PM PDT

Sydney Comedy FestivalGet ready for three weeks of big yuks with acts like Charlie Murphy at the Sydney Comedy Festival.Whatever you think about the Aussies, there's no denying they have a sense of humor -- they pinched most of it from the Brits, after all.

Keeping that reputation alive is the much-loved Sydney Comedy Festival, which hits its eighth edition later this month.

Running from April 24 to May 12, this year's bash features homegrown and international acts tickling ribs at venues across the city. Organizers expect the usual inrush of tourists as well as locals keen on yuks by the bucket load.

International appeal

"Its fantastic to see the festival grow year after year," says Festival Director, Jorge Menidis. "Our audience members fly in from all round Australia to attend, with some performances bringing in visitors from New Zealand and even Southeast Asia."

The festival opens with its traditional Cracker Night -- American readers might need an Oz dictionary, lest they get the wrong idea -- on April 24.

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10 of the world's weirdest film festivals

Posted: 15 Apr 2012 09:31 AM PDT

by Candice Ward

Were we to turn a spotlight on film festivals across the world then stalwarts like Cannes, Toronto and San Sebastian would surely shine brightest. And that's only natural.

Occupying a darker corner of the stage, however, are scores of cinematic celebrations that showcase the unorthodox, the weird and the creepy.

If it weren't for these quirky additions to the global festival calendar, our great storytellers might never have known, for example, the Kevin Norwood Bacon Achievement Award -- a gong awarded for exemplary achievement to a filmmaker or actor connected to Kevin Bacon in six films or fewer.

With that taster still lingering in the senses, here are some of the oddest and most wonderful celebrations of film, all (well, most) screening at a town near you over the next year or so. Book your tickets now.

1. Mile High Horror Film Festival (United States)

WorldNot sure which one's Dorothy, but The Emerald City definitely ain't in Denver.

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Southeast Asia travel: A guide to overland border crossings

Posted: 15 Apr 2012 09:12 AM PDT

by Merritt Gurley

Flying might be quick, but to really get a real feel for Southeast Asia, try rolling old-school and make your way through the region on the ground, where you'll gain a better understanding of the varying landscapes and cultures across the region.

There is a variety of popular routes. For instance, it's possible to follow the Mekong River from China's Yunnan province to Vietnam through Burma, Laos, Thailand and Cambodia.

But as with any form of adventuring, there are drawbacks. When traveling overland you will deal with a whole mess of border crossings, which can mean smooth sailing or a huge headache, depending on your level of preparation.

Here are a few tips on how to make it across a land border with as little hassle as possible. 

Manage your expectations

An overland trip can provide a window into ground-level daily life. That daily life may include bumpy roads, long lines and unexpected detours.

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Insider Guide: Best of Bangkok

Posted: 15 Apr 2012 09:02 AM PDT

So, you're in Thailand on a mission to cram the best of Bangkok into a weekend? It's a big ask -- there's no city in the world like this one -- but it can be done.

With incredible street food, world-class hotels, killer nightlife, packed markets and temples so sparkly they make your eyes water, there's almost too much to choose from.

But you're in luck. This quick guide to the best of Bangkok ensures you can at least hit the highlights on your quest for the best of Bangkok. 

And, yes, gender-defying lady boys, included.

Keep in mind that hotel prices vary dramatically depending on the time of year. High season runs from October to April, while the best bargains can be had May to September.

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at 9:21 AM