• New Orleans' historic, unique cemeteries show new life
New Orleans- On a recent morning, Jeffrey Scott stood before Marie Laveau's tomb in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, shaking a cigarette out of a pack to leave as an offering for the famous voodoo queen.

• Gaza Strip conflict raises anger toward Egypt and spurs attacks World Watch
Conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip raised ire against Egypt in several Middle East countries because some of the Arab public believe that Egypt aided Israel in blockading Gaza and may even have backed Israel's military action there. Demonstrators attacked Egyptian embassies in Yemen, Syria and Lebanon while Egyptian officials denied backing the attack. Hamas and Hezbollah leaders also spoke out against Egypt. Whether the Gaza conflict or these associated tensions produce any unrest in Egypt remains to be seen.

• East Coast cities plan celebrations for Edgar Allan Poe's 200th birthday
Baltimore -- Pick a major East Coast city at random and you're likely to find a 200th-birthday celebration for Edgar Allan Poe.

• Like-minded travelers test new Costa Rican Bird Route
I've just plopped my luggage down at the lodge in the Costa Rican rain forest when the first yell of "macaws" goes out.

• Exploring Warhol at Columbus' Wexner Center for the Arts
Columbus -- Traveling halfway across the state for an art exhibition might not seem like the most rational thing to do in the middle of winter.

• WISH I WERE THERE