Today's Microsoft Google search brought back some troubling news commonly found when dealing with internationally powerful super-companies, but what I found most interesting was an article by the BBC that discusses a contest sponsored by Microsoft to develop new technology using innovative solutions. From the article:

"The tool gives travellers access to blogs specific to the area they are in so they can find useful information and tips."

"It also creates a map which allows family and friends to follow their exact progress while they are away from home."

Though it requires a smartphone, these kinds of applications are becoming more prevelant, and contests like this really add to the amount of well-written apps there are out there that are truly connecting the world in a personal and intuitive way. I think this would be an awesome tool to use when travelling, especially for a younger generation looking to connect with others in an unfamiliar locale.