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Awesome Facts About the World’s Tallest Roller Coasters

August 20, 2015 by

Adrenaline junkies love seeking out the highest, fastest roller coasters at any amusement park, but some of these rides are crazier than others. Here are a few unbelievable facts about the tallest roller coasters in the world.

  • The Steel Dragon 2000 coaster in Japan’s Nagashima Spa Land measures in at a whopping 318 feet high and 8,133 feet long, which makes it the longest steel coaster in the world. Even more impressive is its insane price, however: The coaster required extra steel to make it earthquake-proof, totaling $50 million!
  • Since 2005, the Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey has held the title of the tallest roller coaster in the world. It stands 456 feet tall and drops riders at a stomach-churning 128 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds.
  • If you prefer upside down roller coasters, the roller coaster with the most loops is The Smiler in England’s Alton Towers park. Although its name sounds sweet and innocent, this coaster boasts a whopping 14 loops.
  • If speed is more your thing, the world’s fastest roller coaster is, predictably, located at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. This bright red, Ferrari-themed coaster reaches speeds of 150 miles per hour in just five seconds.

World's Scariest Roller Coasters [Travel + Leisure]
Awesome Roller Coaster Facts: The Tallest One, Fastest One, Most Loops & More!
[Fun Times Guide]
8 Record-Breaking Roller Coasters from Around the World [Thrillist]

Filed Under: Miscellaneous Tagged With: , , ,

Eight Weird and Wacky U.S. Laws

April 16, 2015 by

While the vast majority of United States laws are in place to preserve safety and order among citizens, there are a number of laws whose purpose is a little more confounding. Here are eight laws — some archaic, some still enforced — that will leave you scratching your head.

1. In Texas, it's against the law to sell your eyeball.

2. In Denver, Colorado, it's considered illegal to loan your next door neighbor your vacuum.

3. If you're a resident of Florida who also happens to own an elephant, make note: If you leave your elephant left tied to a parking meter, then you have to pay the meter.

4. Do you enjoy walking backwards after sunset? You'd be well-advised to steer clear of Devon, Connecticut, where it's illegal to do so.

5. In Gainesville, Georgia, you must eat fried chicken with your hands. Using utensils is against the law!

6. If you happen to cross paths with Bigfoot while hiking in Washington state, don't attempt to harass the creature. Doing so could land you in jail.

7. Love the combo of pretzels and beer? Bad news if you live in North Dakota: It's illegal for beer and pretzels to be served at the same time in any bar or restaurant.

8. In Alabama, it's against the law to drive a vehicle while blindfolded.

Bizarre Regional Laws In the U.S. Are Even Weirder Than You Thought [Gizmodo]
Weird U.S.A Laws [Information Central]
United States Weird Laws [Law Guru]

Filed Under: Miscellaneous Tagged With: , , ,

Travel Etiquette Tips Every Jetsetter Should Know

February 19, 2015 by

When you’re planning a big trip, you likely think about what to pack, what travel arrangements to make, and which sights to see once you arrive at your destination. But do you ever think about travel etiquette? Proper etiquette on airplanes or buses is something that most people don’t think about until they’re faced with an awkward situation. Avoid uncomfortable run-ins with fellow passengers with these smart tips:

  1. Start in the gate area. At the airport, try to take up as little space as possible in the gate area. Don’t leave bags or other luggage on empty seats, as these places often get very crowded.
  2. Stick with your zone. Although it might be tempting to board your plane early, boarding zones are created for a reason: to keep things running smoothly and efficiently.
  3. Recline kindly. Before you jolt your seat backward and hit another passenger’s knees or jostle his or her computer, simply turn around and ask if it’s okay.
  4. Don’t rush off the plane or bus. Even if you’re in a hurry, it’s important to let the seats ahead of you exit the plane first.
  5. Navigate the airport or subway station like a highway. This means always stay to the right while walking. If you’re on a moving walkway, walkers should stay to the left, standers on the right.

Travel Etiquette Dos and Don'ts [Travel + Leisure]
10 Travel Etiquette Tips [TripIt]
Whose Feet Are Those? Negotiating Air-Travel Etiquette [The New York Times]

Filed Under: Miscellaneous Tagged With: , , ,

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