Blinks: Our favorite links from around the Web (July 27, 2009)

We’re back with another roundup of Blinks: the Bing editors’ favorite links to travel-related stories from around the Web.

If you’re planning a trip or dreaming about an upcoming adventure, check the Bing Travel blog regularly for more Blinks. Share your discoveries or feedback in the comments section. And then, be sure to subscribe to our RSS feed and become a fan on Facebook.

Here are some of our recent favorites:

Need ideas for your next European adventure? The Los Angeles Times has a new feature sharing 63 off-the-beaten-path destinations in Europe, showcasing a less-crowded alternative in Provence and a waterfront gem on the Adriatic Coast. The story also includes often-overlooked big-city gems like Warsaw, Poland; Vienna; and Oslo. (Los Angeles Times)

National Geographic names the best U.S. national parks in a new feature called Essential Guide to Ten American Classics. The handbook includes scenic drives, easy hikes, travel strategies and tips on where to stay. The best part? The editors aren’t stopping at just 10 parks — more will be added to the site in September. (National Geographic Traveler)

We love applying geek-productivity tips to other aspects of daily life, especially travel. Lifehacker offers a story on the top 10 ways to streamline your vacation, which includes the expected travel tips for how to beat jet lag and how to get the best seat on the plane, but also features good tech tips for getting your laptop ready for travel and for managing the deluge of e-mail you’ll return to at work. (Lifehacker)

Lifehacker also turned us on to a new Web site for travel etiquette that gives tourists tips on local customs and how to fit in when traveling abroad. (via Lifehacker)

Matt Gross, The New York Times’ Frugal Traveler, shares his list for 10 gadgets under $50. There are great recommendations for high-tech travelers, such as a mini surge protector, perfect for those who pack a lot of electronic devices, as well as low-tech travelers, for whom Gross suggests his favorite small spiral notepads. (The New York Times)