I’m having a difficult time figuring out what the angel in this public mural is doing to the man (soldier?), but I know it looks awesome.

This piece of art is located near Waterfront Station in the Gastown area of Vancouver, BC. Gastown is named after “Gassy” Jack Deighton, which as far as nicknames go, kind of stinks. But apparently he was well thought of, hence Gastown.

The area is known for fashion, boutiques, touristy stuff and its nightlife. None of which, as far as I can tell, are gas-related.

This post is part of the UpTake Public Art Series. If you see an interesting piece of public art, snap a picture and send it in. We’ll feature it on UpTake!

Photo: ♥ Morning Glory ♥ via Flickr

Both are “coastal” cities (one on a river, one on the ocean), both are enjoying sweater weather at this time of year, and both are relaxed and lively with culture but without pretense. The two cities are on opposite sides of the country, a whopping 3,215 miles apart. If you have the chance, check out Portland Maine and Portland Oregon and compare your experiences!

The view from our table at McCormick and Schmicks, Portland Oregon.

Portland Oregon

Best place to eat: McCormick & Schmicks Harborside at the Marina. The shot above was taken directly to my right as we sat at our table on a lovely summer day. I had the steamed clams and the rare Ahi nicoise salad, and both were excellent.

Best place to sleep: The Hotel Lucia in downtown Portland is such a neat, atypical place to stay. It’s downright cozy, yet has a young and upbeat atmosphere. It’s certainly one of the more stylish hotels I’ve ever seen. Since you’re within walking distance of so much you probably won’t want to eat in, but their on-site restaurant/bar is great for a quick cocktail or full-menu room service.

Best thing to see: Washington Park sits high atop a hill above the city and offers spectacular views. Visit the International Rose Test Garden, the Japanese Garden, and the Hoyt Arboretum all in one lovely day.

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Homestyle Cooking at Mrs. Wilke's in Savannah

Do you love to eat? Then book your next vacation to one of these delicious destinations.

Savannah, Georgia

Don’t expect to find a healthy meal, but you’re on vacation! Hit up Mrs. Wilke’s for a unique family-style dining experience fit for President Obama, whose photo you’ll find on the wall amid other chewing celebrities. If you’re looking for a celebrity chef, head to the The Lady and Sons, the restaurant owned by Food Network star Paula Deen.

New Orleans, Louisiana

If you ask a local what they do for fun, they’ll tell you where to eat. Eating, drinking and playing music are the Crescent City’s most popular past times. You might not be able to jam with the band on the street, but you can dig in like a local at Mother’s. For a more touristy experience, head to Cafe du Monde for coffee and donuts. And for the best burger anywhere, grab a cab and head to Port of Call.

Cleveland, Ohio

Are you the friend who is always the first to discover a new restaurant? Then step away from the well-worn path and head to Cleveland to discover a growing foodie culture. In 2009,Cleveland’s Greenhouse Tavern was selected as Bon Appétit Magazine’s Top Ten Restaurants in America. While you’re being adventurous, head to Parallax for Cleveland sushi. After dinner, find out why Ohio prides itself on ice cream at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams.

Photo Britt Reints

Buckle up, travelers, it’s time to hit the open super information highway for all of your vacation needs. Well, some of your vacation needs. We don’t sell postcards (but we should).

Over the past week we have carefully considered all of the emails (see link in sidebar) and tweets that we have received, and we’ve picked the most interesting for you to peruse. That, my friends, is how we were raised.

And now is the part where we link to stuff.

Kids and teens are talking travel at a Kid’s I View.

Real people (like you, not the bots and/or zombies) are sharing real travel stories at TravelerVoice.

The Disney Blog has tons of info to help plan your Disney vacation!

Lonely Planet’s Robert Reid talks flying with Iron Maiden’s Captain Bruce Dickinson.

Looking for all things cruise-related? Well, you’ve found it.

Ever considered a Denny’s tour of America? Gadling has.

Switzerland is still beautiful. CNN Travel has proof.

Top 10 new restaurants in America according to Bon Appetit.

USA Today points out that NYC’s Naked Cowgirl is kind of frisky. Not that there is anything wrong with that.

There you have it, folks — a week of internet travel deals and discounts. Also, news. Enjoy the journey!