All eyes are about to be cast across the pond, and we wouldn't want to divert your attention from such a splendid site. Therefore, in this week's Around the Web, all links lead abroad. 

Cool Hunting: "Height Cuisine"

Hate airplane food? Turns out you might not be as picky as you are sensitive to environmental factors. This is the precise reason as to why British Airways has developed their new "Height Cuisine" program, a recipe development project that takes into account various research that has been performed on the taste of foods in areas of high altitude or changing air pressure. Apparently, one's taste for bitterness heightens in the air, and more delicate foods tend to lose their flavor. This endeavor has already introduced such meals as tortellaci with olive and tomato and Indian chicken tikka, both served to rave reviews. And if you aren't opposed to a bit of cheating, why not utilize a tip from the article and dab your tongue with a paper towel, then sprinkle a bit of salt or sugar onto it. Hey, we'll do anything to banish the bland. 

USA Today: "Rick Steves: How to avoid long lines in Europe"

Some of his advice may sound obvious, and some of it the mark of a true insider, but all of it is worth the read if you're headed abroad. As anyone can imagine – seasoned traveler or not – the biggest attractions are at their most jam-packed during the summer. This doesn't mean you should have to skip out on anything worth seeing, though. Rather, it's quite important to do a bit of research and find out if there are any special precautions or particular actions you should be taking before you gather up your group for a day of touring. Whether it's a reservation that will enable nearly instant access to a highly anticipated attraction, or a sneakier side entrance that you will lead you away from the crowds, Steves has provided great info that will have friends and family thinking you're an old pro. Step outside of the box – and out of that line!

Huffington Post: "Renting An Apartment in Paris"

Are you a homebody who's about to be as far from your comfort zone as possible? Skip the typical hotel experience and rent yourself an apartment. Nothing says "International Man of Mystery" quite like being "the new guy with the American accent" in the building. As illustrated in this Huffington Post piece, this alternative can be equal in price to mid-range resort accommodations and a wonderful way to feel "at home" in a strange city. Instead of room service, you can buy some groceries from a local market for the course of your stay, and rather than feel like a typical tourist, you'll look and feel like a native in the know. And we know what you're thinking – "I'll have to clean!" – but no worries: A maid service will come once a week (we think you can last that long). What are you waiting for? Open Google and start searching.