Monty Python’s Life Of Brine

Take It With A Pinch Of Salt

Ever tried building anything from giant blocks of salt? No? Me neither. But that is exactly how construction workers are putting up a hotel in the world’s largest salt desert, Salar de Uyuni in southwestern Bolivia. The area, which boasts native pink flamingos, 1000-year-old cacti and rare hummingbirds, is becoming a tourist hotspot. The hotel mimics other projects constructed from salt blocks. If you do go, try not to lick the walls.

FOOTNOTE: Is it bigger than the San Andreas Salt?

To view the hotel under construction, go to Lost Weekend.com

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We Won't Can Our Brand Name, Says Coca-Cola

Pointing out stories you may have missed. Bolivia's coca growers want the word ``Coca'' dropped from Coca-Cola. In turn, the Coca-Cola Co. said its trademark is ``the most valuable and recognised brand in the world'' and was protected under Bolivian law.

A statement from the company reiterated past denials that Coca-Cola has ever used cocaine as an ingredient, but did not tackle the issue of whether the natural coca leaf was used to flavor the flagship drink.
Bolivian coca growers express frustration that Coca-Cola can use their beloved coca leaf - yet not defend it to a suspicious world. The Bolivian government regulates the sale of coca to prevent use by the drug trade.

In its natural state, the green leaf is only a mild stimulant.

News source: The Houston Chronicle.