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Guy Riding his Motorcycle while Texting in India

This video made me cry laughing because of the response of the guys taking he video. Apparently this guy can ride his motorcycle and text at the same time without holding on to the handle bars. Thats funny.

Incredible Japanese Decotora Trucks Video

Here is a great video about these Japanese Decotora Trucks I posted some time ago. The pictures are great but you really need to seem them live and this video does them justice. They explain the history of how all this got started and they interview some of the truckers and artists who help create these amazing works of art.

Three Singing Japanese Motorcycles

These three Japanese motorcycle riders are using the sound of their bikes to jam in unison. Its by is by far the craziest thing I have ever seeing come out of Japan. Can any one tell me what this is about, its really pretty cool???

Arab Kid Bike Drifting

I don't know why but this Arab Kid Bike Drifting video is really funny.

Honda Hybrids Create Beautiful Headlight Pixel Art Video

via Gizmoto

Honda created an amazing commercial to promote the upcoming launch of a second-generation Insight. They drove a ton of their hybrid cars out into the desert lined them up and created spectacular pixel animation using the vehicles’ headlights. These hybrid art cars are amazing but cant imagine the logistical nightmare it took to create this Headlight Pixel Art

Life Saving Cozy Car Slippers- With Anti Toe Stubbing Devise

via Splunch
Have you ever had to get up in the middle of the night to get a glass of water and on the way you stubbed your pinkie toe on a piece of furniture because you went out in the dark?. Now there is a life saving pinkie toe devise that will enable you to walk far in the dark called the "Cozy Car Slippers". These not only keep your feet warm but have working head lights to illuminate your path as you head out half a sleep.

What are some examples of motor carrier and broker complaints?

• The HHG shipment is hostage for final payment in excess of 110% of non-binding estimate.
• A HHG carrier, broker or other regulated entity engaged in interstate operations without the required authority from the FMCSA (unauthorized operations).
• A HHG carrier, broker or other regulated entity engaged in interstate operations without the required insurance on file with the FMCSA (uninsured operations).
• The HHG carrier failed to acknowledge, process and settle your loss and damage within 120 days of receipt.
• The HHG does not belong to a dispute settlement to handle loss and damage claims.
• The HHG carrier or other regulated entity failed to honor agreed pick-up and/or delivery dates without giving proper notice.

Cathedral of Junk in Austin Texas - Video by iJustine

Cathedral of Junk in Austin Texas @ Yahoo! Video

iJustine internet sensation extraordinaire did a funny piece on the Cathedral of Junk in Austin Texas. A crazy structure made up of you guessed it, junk. The reason its here is because I caught a glimpse of a bunch car parts on Cathedral of junk and because it closely related to art cars in general. Some people with art cars also have gone into to the art house business as well. Anyways its a pretty cool and funny video check it out

Extreme Trailer Racing - Trailer Trashed

This is the first ever video I have seen where the trailers were also included in the race. I call it Trailer Trashed in this Extreme Trailer Racing from Britain. Hilarious.

Burly Pink Pedal Powered Tank that shoots Hotdogs

Burly Pink Pedal Powered Tank

More photos on flickr

This Burly Pink Pedal Powered Tank was built to freak people out at the 2ND annual Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby. It is a human-powered pink camouflage art tank vehicle that and can soak onlookers in water or vaporized hot dogs. This Pink Tank is the brainchild of a 30-year-old Philadelphia gearhead Vin Marshall who managed to persuade nine of his friends to build the 2,000-pound replica, complete with a functioning pneumatic cannon. The idea was to make this beast human powered so a computer model showed that it could fit hardware for six pedalers and yield about 1.5 horsepower. Using tires instead of tank treads they gave it bicycle-like gearing to get more power from less exertion. They used a salvaged rear differential (which allows wheels to spin independently) from an old truck axle made turning more efficient. It took them 11 days and $3,000 along with suspension and steering from an old Geo Metro and a Ford 150 pickup. The frame and axles were built from scratch, to ensure the tank would not buckle under the tank’s enormous weight. Six old 10-speeds provided the pedals, cranks and bottom brackets. The group replaced the bicycles' regular chain wheels with industrial-grade chains and sprockets to handle the increased load on the transmission.Official Web Site is Tango Echo


Here is also a video and the funny thing is that the there is a clip of the deathmobile from animal house
Episode 5 of the TE Labs Show: Team Pzkpfw

Deathmobile for sale - Animal House fan must have!!!

This deathmobile from the movie "Animal House" is now for sale on Craigslist. If you are a big fan of the movie this deathmobile is a must have for party animal within.

1966 lincoln continental deathmobile animal house

Here is the low down on the car

From the barris star car collection, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the cult classic featuring John Belushi! National lampoon’s animal house is one of the most famous movies made, ever! The edited version is still played regularly on tv. The Deathmobile is by far one of the most easily recognized movie cars ever made! People flock to this car wherever it goes, people 30 and up all remember the car, people younger than 30 still get a kick out of the wild creation! The tank style turret has a roof top hatch door and a prop whistle. The lower section of the turret is made of a tinted plexi-glass so the driver can easily see what’s around him for safe driving. In parades the car is the favorite, take it to a show and you will steal the attention away from the nicest show cars there. It is a great attraction for businesses or a fun piece for any collection. After 30 years, people still get a chuckle when you even mention the name of the movie “animal house”. There are few movies made that stand the test of time, this movie and this car are both legendary!
* year: 1966
* make: Lincoln
* model: Continental
* trim: Deathmobile animal house

* engine size: 462 340hp
* transmission: automatic
* exterior color: black
* interior color: black 1966 Lincoln continental Deathmobile animal house

Here is the Scene from Animal House hen the deathmobile makes its appearance.

Art Cars Caught On Google Street View

There are many art cars but only few are chosen to be featured on Google Street View by the all seeing eye. Its pretty amazing and and the same time a bit creepy, especially because I live off the beaten path in the country. Anyways these art cars have achieved yet again another level of fame and this time on the world famous Google Street View. I am excited because my Mercedes Pens Art Car covered in 10,000 was selected along with my mail box and the other lucky art car winners chosen at random. Also featured on Google Street View is the Sticker Car, the Post-it Car, Our Lady of Eternal Combustion, Jesus Chrysler and the The Danger Car.

Mercedes Pens Art Car on Google Street View


The Pen Guy Mail Box Covered in Pens on Google Street View


Sticker Art Car on Google Street View

Post-It Car on Google Street View

Our Lady of Eternal Combustion, Jesus Chrysler, The Danger Car on Google Street View

Statement of Lynne Osmus

hank you for inviting me here today to be a part of your discussion about the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). We at the FAA, and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as a whole, look forward to working with this Committee and the new Congress on achieving a robust, multiyear bill that will help ensure the safety of the flying public and efficiency of the National Airspace System (NAS). This is an exciting time in our Nation’s history, as a new Administration takes the reins and establishes its policies. With new Members in Congress as well, fresh ideas and innovative approaches to challenging problems are sure to come. As Acting Administrator, I look forward to facilitating that as much as possible.

FAA reauthorization is a priority for the Department. As the new Administration settles in and continues to get its policy team in place, we will have the opportunity to analyze the Committee’s proposal and develop an Administration position on FAA reauthorization. There is a challenging legislative agenda this session and circumstances have dictated that during this first month of the Administration, the legislative focus be on the economic stimulus package. I can assure you, though, that the Secretary views the aviation reauthorization as one of his top legislative priorities. In the meantime, please accept my gratitude on behalf of the Administration for your efforts in moving the FAA’s reauthorization forward. There is a consensus in the aviation community, and certainly in the FAA, that multiple, short-term extensions as we have had in the last 18 months are burdensome and disruptive, and do not permit the careful planning and efficient execution that is necessary for successful infrastructure and technology programs.

Secretary LaHood has demonstrated that the FAA is at the top of his list of priorities. He visited FAA headquarters twice in his first week as Secretary, meeting first with the executive management team, and then holding a town hall meeting where all employees were invited to attend. In addition to the overflow crowd in the FAA auditorium, the town hall was shown via video broadcast to other FAA offices.

The Secretary has indicated several times in his confirmation hearing and to FAA employees that one of his immediate goals is to fill the position of FAA Administrator, in order to move forward as quickly and seamlessly as possible. He has expressed that the new Administrator will be one who can advance the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) and refine benchmarks for the program for the next five to eight years. The Secretary has also noted that one criterion for a successful FAA Administrator is someone with the people skills to resolve outstanding labor issues, something to which many Members of this Committee are also committed. I am also confident that any new Administrator will work closely with the Committee to ensure these goals are part of any future aviation legislation.

Travel Warning ALGERIA

The Department of State urges U.S. citizens who travel to Algeria to evaluate carefully the risks posed to their personal safety. Terrorist attacks including bombings, false roadblocks, kidnappings, ambushes, and assassinations occur regularly, particularly in the Kabylie region of the country. Since early 2007, the use of suicide bomb attacks, particularly vehicle-borne attacks, has emerged as a terrorist tactic in Algeria, including in the capital. The group that claimed credit for the December 11, 2007, suicide car-bomb attacks in Algiers has pledged more attacks against foreign targets, and specifically against American targets. This Travel Warning updates information on the current security situation in Algeria and the continuing threat posed by terrorism, and replaces the Travel Warning issued on August 22, 2008.

The Department of State recommends that U.S. citizens avoid overland travel in Algeria. Americans who reside or travel in Algeria should take prudent security measures while in the country, including making provisions for reliable and experienced logistical support. Visitors to Algeria are advised to stay only in hotels where adequate security is provided. All visitors to Algeria should remain alert and adhere to prudent security practices such as avoiding predictable travel patterns and maintaining a low profile.

The U.S. Government considers the potential threat to U.S. Embassy personnel assigned to Algiers sufficiently serious to require them to live and work under significant security restrictions. These practices limit, and may occasionally prevent, the movement of U.S. Embassy officials and the provision of consular services in certain areas of the country. The Government of Algeria requires U.S. Embassy personnel to seek permission to travel to the Casbah within Algiers or outside the province of Algiers and to have a security escort. Travel to the military zone established around the Hassi Messaoud oil center requires Government of Algeria authorization. Daily movement of Embassy personnel in Algiers is limited, and prudent security practices are required at all times. Travel by Embassy personnel within the city requires prior coordination with the Embassy's Regional Security Office. American visitors are encouraged to contact the Embassy's Consular Section for the most recent safety and security information concerning travel in the city of Algiers.

Americans living or traveling in Algeria are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Algiers through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Algeria. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located at 5 Chemin Cheikh Bachir El-Ibrahimi in the El Biar district of Algiers. The telephone number is [213] 770 08 20 00, which can also be reached after hours in the event of emergencies. The fax number is [213] 21 98 22 99.

Travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

Thong Car from Russia, With Love

This sexy thong art car is brought to with love from Russia and will hopefully be the only risky entry I ever have to deal with. I guess its Russia's version of Fashion Week but I can't imagine the thinking that went into creating this beast. The question that begs to be answered is where on this good earth do you get a thong that big and who would be big enough to wear it. I guess if you buy a bra for the front of the car you can now get a thong for the back of the car. Makes sense to me.

Thong Car from Russia With Love

Japanese Decotora Truck - Art Trucks in Disguise

I did an entry about this long time ago but didn't know much about these art rucks from Japan called Dekotora Trucks . These trucks are highly customized and are found in Japan often made to look like they’re straight out of the movie Transformers. These trucks are made for fun to be used as art trucks at special events.

Japanese Decotora Trucks



great post via off beat planet

Next Gen Implementation Plan

The Federal Aviation Administration released an update to its NextGen Implementation Plan on 2009 With its internal NextGen planning well defined, the agency will now focus on developing parallel commitments with the aviation community, particularly on avionics equipage. To support this, the RTCA, an industry association that serves as a federal advisory committee, has launched a NextGen Implementation Task Force in partnership with the FAA. This RTCA-sponsored task force will offer recommendations on how to get the most benefits from the NextGen mid-term operational capabilities. The plan provides

* Mid-Term Avionics Requirements: The Plan defines the core set of avionics that support the NextGen operational capabilities that will be deployed by 2018. NextGen benefits will be maximized when the majority of operators are properly equipped. While these avionics will also support capabilities implemented beyond 2018, additional equipage may be necessary to take advantage of capabilities introduced beyond the mid-term. * Governing Principles for Equipage: The Plan defines the governing principles that will guide upcoming conversations with operators on ways to accelerate mid-term equipage. The principles span potential operational, financial, and regulatory actions. * Implementation Commitments: (PDF) The Plan summarizes the agency’s NextGen implementation commitments for the next five years. It also highlights applied research, engineering, and demonstration activities in fiscal year 2009 that will help the agency make decisions on commitments for the following five years, and beyond. * Operational Description and Benefits: The Plan describes how the NAS will operate in 2018, when all mid-term operational capabilities are in place. It also discusses the modeling and simulation tools the FAA is using to assess NextGen’s benefits. * Technical Details: The agency has also updated its NAS Enterprise Architecture. Published on January 30, the architecture contains detailed, technical roadmaps for NextGen’s mid-term operational capabilities

Car Rim Hat revealed at Paris Fashion Week

Shocking fashion wear made with a car hub cap was made by British fashion designer Alexander McQueen. This hubcap wearing model caught my eye only because of the car rim fashioned into a hat for this pour model who had to balance a ton of aluminum on her head. The article was written by Liz Jones and goes on to describe the rest of the show with many more pictures that I dare not post. I am no fashion writer but to me it looks like the fifth element landed in a scrap yard, which is exactly were it was held at this years Fashion Week in Paris. Why post this on Art Car Central you ask? Its car related and its on the artistic side of the spectrum, therefore it belongs as the wackiest thing thus far. Next year I really would like to see Alex give us something in spinner rims and a sound system. Or maybe cover the model in rubber duckies and barbie dolls. Can you imagine a model wearing hydraulic pumps bouncing down the runway?

Model wearing a car rim hat at Paris Fashion Week

via

Zen and the art of goofing off at work - Office Supply Art Car

If you ever need more ideas on how to spend your valuable time at work not actually working yet looking real busy with those TPS reports, this is the blog entry for you. It should be called "zen and the art of goofing off at work" and for good reason because its so easy to do with so many office supplies at your disposal. I am sure studies have shown that finding inner calmness is good for health and mental stability. When you get caught making say one of these office supply art cars, you just tell your boss you have high blood pressure from all the stress and that by doing so you lessen your risk of having to take sick time off thus strengthening the companies bottom line. Or you can just say its part of the creative process of the project you got roped into working on for your bosses big proposal next week. Regardless of what you say these little office supply art cars are simply adorable and deserve their place here on Art Car Central.

Office Supply Car


for more office supply ideas see MAKE article

9 Ways To Lower Your Auto Insurance Costs

One of the best ways to keep your auto insurance costs down is to have a good driving record.
Listed below are other things you can do to lower your insurance costs.


1. Shop Around
Prices vary from company to company, so it pays to shop around. Get at least three price quotes. You can call companies directly or access information on the Internet. Your state insurance department may also provide comparisons of prices charged by major insurers.

You buy insurance to protect you financially and provide peace of mind. It's important to pick a company that is financially stable. Check the financial health of insurance companies and consult consumer magazines.

Get quotes from different types of insurance companies. Some sell through their own agents. These agencies have the same name as the insurance company. Some sell through independent agents who offer policies from several insurance companies. Others do not use agents. They sell directly to consumers over the phone or via the Internet.

Don't shop price alone. Ask friends and relatives for their recommendations. Contact your state insurance department to find out whether they provide information on consumer complaints by company. Pick an agent or company representative that takes the time to answer your questions. You can use the checklist on the back of this brochure to help you compare quotes from insurers and on the same coverage.

2. Before You Buy a Car, Compare Insurance Costs
Before you buy a new or used car, check into insurance costs. Car insurance premiums are based in part on the car’s sticker price, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record, and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft. These include daytime running lights and anti-theft devices. To help you decide what car to buy, you can get information from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

3. Ask for Higher Deductibles
Deductibles are what you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by 15 to 30 percent. Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you 40 percent or more. Before choosing a higher deductible, be sure you have enough money set aside to pay it if you have a claim.

4. Reduce Coverage on Older Cars
Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverages on older cars. If your car is worth less than 10 times the premium, purchasing the coverage may not be cost effective. Auto dealers and banks can tell you the worth of cars. Review your coverage at renewal time to make sure your insurance needs haven’t changed.

5. Buy your Homeowners and Auto Coverage from the Same Insurer
Many insurers will give you a break if you buy two or more types of insurance. You may also get a reduction if you have more than one vehicle insured with the same company. Some insurers reduce the rates for long-time customers. But it still makes sense to shop around! You may save money buying from different insurance companies, compared with a multi-policy discount.

6. Maintain a Good Credit Record
Establishing a solid credit history can cut your insurance costs. Insurers are increasingly using credit information to price auto insurance policies. To protect your credit standing, pay your bills on time, don't obtain more credit than you need and keep your credit balances as low as possible. Check your credit record on a regular basis and have any errors corrected promptly so that your record remains accurate.

7. Take Advantage of Low Mileage Discounts
Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive a lower than average number of miles a year. Low mileage discounts can also apply to drivers who car pool to work.

8. Ask about Group Insurance
Some companies offer reductions to drivers who get insurance through a group plan from their employers, through professional, business and alumni groups, or other associations. Ask your employer and inquire with groups or clubs you are a member of to see if this is possible.

9. Seek Out Other Discounts
Companies offer discounts to policyholders who have not had any accidents or moving violations for a number of years. You may also get a discount if you take a defensive driving course. If there is a young driver on the policy who is a good student, has taken a drivers education course or is at a college out of the area without a car, you may also qualify for a lower rate.

When you comparison shop, inquire about discounts for the following:

[ ] $500 deductible [ ] $1,000 deductible [ ] More than 1 car [ ] No Accidents in 3 Years [ ] No Moving Violations in 3 Years [ ] Driver Training Courses [ ] Defensive Driving Courses [ ] Anti-Theft Devices [ ] Low Annual Mileage [ ] Air Bags [ ] Anti-Lock Brakes [ ] Daytime Running Lights [ ] Student Drivers with Good Grades [ ] Auto and Homeowners Coverage with the Same Company [ ] College Students away from Home [ ] Long-Time Customer [ ] Other Discounts

The key to savings is not the discounts, but the final price. A company that offers few discounts may still have a lower overall price.

These discounts listed may not be available in all states or from all insurance companies.

Startup gives boost to electric cars

Richard Lowenthal used to worry about the electric-auto industry's chicken-and-egg question: Which will come first, the chargers or the cars?

But now that Coulomb Technologies has installed four of its ChargePoint Network electric-car charging stations in downtown San Jose, Calif., and just landed $3.75 million in first-round venture funding, Lowenthal doesn't have time to worry.

"Our company is all about enabling the purchase of electric vehicles," said Lowenthal, chief executive of the Campbell, Calif., startup. "We want to make sure that everybody can fuel them."

Coulomb plans to have about 1,000 chargers in place by the end of the year. They'll be found on city streets, in parking garages, at companies and at gas stations - not only in California, but also nationwide.

"These are vending machines for electricity," said Lowenthal, who has a knack for one-liners that reflect his years spent as a small-town politician. He's a former mayor and city council member of Cupertino, Calif.

So far, only a few hundred electric and plug-in hybrid passenger cars exist nationwide, with probably the biggest share in the San Francisco Bay Area. But automakers such as General Motors, Toyota, BMW, Mercedes, Ford, Nissan and others say they'll have electric cars or plug-in hybrids on the market in the next year or two.

Tesla, based in San Carlos, Calif., began selling its electric Roadster in 2008, while several garages in the Bay Area convert Toyota Prius hybrids to plug-in hybrids with extended electric ranges.

Investment banker Morgan Stanley forecasts 5,000 electric or plug-in cars will be on the road in 2010, 30,000 in 2011 and 100,000 by 2012. Lowenthal describes those projections as "conservative." Still, he said, if those numbers pan out, Coulomb will be profitable by October 2010.

Longer range, Lowenthal sees a potential windfall. President Barack Obama has said he would like to see 1 million electric and plug-in cars on America's highways by 2015. Lowenthal says about two chargers will be needed for every electric and plug-in vehicle, so the growth possibilities for his company are huge.

Coulomb sells chargers through distributors at a cost of $2,000 to $3,000 each, and now has distributors in 28 states, Lowenthal said. It also sells subscriptions to drivers of electric cars and plug-in hybrids, and shares the revenues with the charging-station owners.

The first buyers of chargers are cities and companies that want to make a green statement, he said.

That's why San Jose partnered with Coulomb, said James Helmer, the city's transportation director. He said the chargers fit into the city's policies of supporting local clean-technology companies and promoting cleaner cars.

San Jose has allowed Coulomb, as part of a two-year trial period, to install its chargers on city property for free. During 2009, anyone who uses the stations - one is located on Santa Clara Street outside City Hall and three are in the Fourth Street garage - will get the electricity for free.

The time required to charge an electric car varies widely among vehicles and battery types. While many who use a public charging spot are expected to merely grab a quick power boost, those who park vehicles outside their workplace could get a full charge from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

After the trial period, drivers will be required to sign up for the ChargePoint Network and pay a $9.95 setup fee plus a monthly fee ranging from $15 to $50.

Nasty Cars Made from Raw Meat - And How to make a Meat Pirate Ship

I was again minding my own business surfing the internet when I run into an article on how to make yourself a pirate Ship entirely from MEAT on Geekologie. Then decided to Google, you guessed it, a Meat CAR and here is what I found: Two more meat cars, a meat shoe and my favorite the meat coffee cup. I am really sorry about this, but it's the most disgusting entry I have ever made on Art Car Cenral. Don't get me wrong I love "cooked" meat but this is really , really bad. I hope you come back to ACC when all this blows over.

Meat Car Plain


Meat Car with Garnish


Pirate Meat Ship


Meat Shoe Art


Meat Coffee Cup Art

Hello Kitty Art Car - A Revolution is taking place

Around the world a revolution is taking place, one that is so revolutionary that no revolution in the past could have revolutionized the world as much as this revolution taking place right now. Its the Hello Kitty Art car revolution, its true people are covering their vehicles in this revolutionary symbol unlike that of past generations. Its bigger than Che Guevara, bigger than the iMac and even bigger than slice bread. Behold the Hello Kitty Art Car revolution. They have a leader, soldiers of every age with guns, guitars, cars, bikes, motorcycles, planes, trains and sowing machines for their uniforms. This army is unstoppable and one day they shall rule the world together as one.




The Making of A Hello Kitty Prius Art Car Video

Madagascar

The State Department warns U. S. citizens of the risks of traveling to Madagascar, and recommends deferring all but essential travel to Madagascar because of escalating civil unrest stemming from a political rift between supporters of the former mayor of the capital city of Antananarivo and the government of Madagascar. This replaces the Madagascar Travel Alert of January 28, to note that the Department of State has authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel and family members at the U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo, recommend against non-essential travel to Madagascar, and update security concerns.

Since January 2009, Madagascar has been experiencing escalating political demonstrations including violent clashes between government forces and supporters of the former mayor of Antananarivo. Looting, and the burning of residences and businesses have occurred. While American citizens have not been targeted to date, the Department of State has authorized the departure of non-emergency personnel and family members at the U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo due to the ongoing unrest and security concerns. The Department of State advises U.S. citizens against non-essential travel to Madagascar at this time. American citizens already in Madagascar should carefully consider the dangers of remaining. Those who do choose to remain despite this warning should continue to maintain a high level of vigilance and a low profile.

The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas, to review emergency procedures and contingency plans, and to remain aware of their surroundings at all times. American citizens in Madagascar should ensure they have enough water, food, and supplies in stock in the event of an emergency. The dynamic political situation may require the U.S. Embassy in Madagascar to close for safety and security reasons without much advance notice. The Embassy will nevertheless endeavor to notify American citizens of any such closures via warden message, posted at http://www.antananarivo.usembassy.gov/warden-messages.html.

American citizens in Madagascar are urged to register with the Department of State or the U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo, Madagascar, through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy in Antananarivo to contact them in case of emergency. Please be sure to include your e-mail address and cellular phone number.

The Embassy is located at 14-16 Rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola, Antananarivo. The mailing address is B.P. 620, Antsahavola, Antananarivo, Madagascar; telephone [261] (20) 22-212-57 during regular business hours and for after-hours emergencies; fax [261] (20) 22-345-39. The Consular Section e-mail address is antanwarden@state.gov. The Embassy's web site is located at http://www.antananarivo.usembassy.gov.

Updated information on travel and security in Madagascar may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada, or for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. For further information, please consult the Country Specific Information for Madagascar and the Worldwide Caution available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at http://travel.state.gov.

Circular Bike for Circular Reasoning

via

The coolest circular bike ever made was created by a student at UCSB. He took nine salvaged bikes, tube steel and yellow paint and reassembled into a carousel formation in the spring of 2003. The bike is modular and can be dismantled and reassembled. It is normally left in public places where it can attract a variety of riders.

Romanian front drive salvage special car

This Romanian Romania Dacia 1310 car is the latest in front wheel technology.

Segway Mom Pushing a Stroller- The Art of Crazy Lazy

via

What's wrong with this picture? A mom pushing her child in a stroller while riding her Segway, can we say Crazy Lazy???

Wagon Wheeled Hummer - Flat tire be gone

This hummer is sporting the new "flat-tire-be-gone". Tires that will never get a flat but will last for about a week after heavy duty off road driving.

International travel

International travel

The State Department’s Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management (ACS) administers the Consular Information Program, which informs the public of conditions abroad that may affect their safety and security. Country Specific Information, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings are vital parts of this program.

* Country Travel Information by Regions
* A - Z Country Index

Click on the region name for a list of countries.

See all the Country Specific Information



ACS supports the work of our overseas embassies and consulates in providing emergency services to Americans traveling or living abroad. We also assist in non-emergency matters of birth, identity, passport, citizenship, registration, judicial assistance, and estates. ACS can facilitate the transfer of funds overseas to assist U.S. citizens in need, repatriate the remains of loved ones who have died overseas, assist victims of crime, and help U.S. citizens who are detained in foreign prisons. In other words, ACS is here to assist you and your family whenever and wherever we can.

ACS also administers a repatriation loan program to bring home destitute Americans. We operate a 24-hour Duty Officer Program and Crisis Response Teams who work on task forces convened to deal with natural or man-made disasters.

Click here for a list of links to travel information from other countries

Funny Military Vehicles - with the best acronyms of the year

Low Altitude Hand held Synchronized Assault Aircraft or LAHSAA

These funny military vehicles are brought to you by the hard working folks in the US armed Forces. You go to work, the commute stinks, you work long hours and you have have morons taking pot sots at you all day long. Here is my best shot at naming these in a manner that any one in the military could understand, you deserve a break.

Coca-Cola Delivery Assault Vehicle or CCDAV


Santa's Helicopter Present Assault Vehicle or SHPAV


All Terrain Donkey Assault Vehicle or ATDAV


Low Altitude Motorcycle Assault Aircraft or LAMAA