Blinks: Our favorite links from around the Web (August 10, 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:

In a city with a reputation for crime and corruption, Naples, Italy, has a progressive approach for helping vulnerable visitors: Hire ex-cons as tour guides. These former crooks obviously know the ins and outs of ripping off tourists, which makes them uniquely qualified for the job. (Intelligent Travel Blog) 

Another travel review Web site has entered into the mix. Go-lo.net offers a new way for travelers to get advice and recommendations. Pose your query on the site and have it answered by a combination of travel professionals and site members. (via Arthur Frommer Online)

During your next hotel stay, you may need to heed the advice “sleep tight, don’t let the bedbugs bite.” Hoteliers across the country are converging at symposia later this month to address the resurgence of bedbugs at properties around the U.S. (In Transit Blog)

Ever wonder why some people don’t have any desire to travel? (What’s wrong with them?!). It turns out that the desire to travel — or not — may be in your genes. Scientists have identified a gene tied to risk and novelty-seeking behavior, including human migration. Is this the wanderlust gene? (via WorldHum)

If you were hoping for a vacation but ended up with a staycation, TravelMuse has five ways to spruce up your local getaway. Best tip: Stop calling it a staycation! Also, remember that with all the money and travel time you save by sticking close to home, you can splurge a little on a fancy hotel, time at the spa or an extravagant meal. (TravelMuse)