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The Scootercase.

At the airport

It's been more than 40 years since luggage started sprouting wheels. Now Hammacher Schlemmer, a retailer of the unusual and the expensive, has taken the concept one step beyond with the Only Scootercase, a suitcase that converts into a scooter. Late for a connecting flight? No problem. Simply extend the built-in footboard with in-line skate wheels and propel yourself past the milling masses. Like all approved carry-ons, the case fits into an overhead bin. It sells for $299.95 (U.S.) at hammacher.com.

On the ground

Only 26 per cent of Europeans are aware that 112 is the Europe-wide tourist emergency phone number, according to a recent survey. Knowledge of 112 was even lower – 14 per cent – in the United Kingdom. But all travellers, including Canadians, should be prepared to call 112 in a crisis. The number, free from mobile and fixed phones, works in all European Union countries plus some neighbouring nations. Calls placed in 25 of the countries are answered in English. Details at 112.eu.

In the room

First came the reality TV show for which participants grunt and diet to shed unwanted pounds. Then came the Biggest Loser Resorts, one in California and one in Utah, with the same regimen of exercise and nutrition. Opening in June is the chain's third property, the Biggest Loser Resort-Niagara, located southeast of Buffalo in Java Center, N.Y. The parent company, Fitness Ridge Worldwide, says it expects to welcome an abundance of Canadians because of the show's popularity north of the border.



Sources: Hammacher.com, European Commission, Buffalo News

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