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Travel Trivia > Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines

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message 1: by Jan, Moderator (last edited Feb 26, 2024 12:52PM) (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
Start Date to Completion

We have a new Travel Trivia challenge about some very interesting vending machines you might find in your travels.


Complete 8 tasks. Spell Out is Optional
Spell Out Guidelines:(view spoiler)

Challenge Rules: All forms of books are accepted as long as they are 100 pages or more. When posting updates of completed books, please include a link to the title and author’s name, along with the date you finished reading the book. Please post cover if it is task appropriate. When you have completed the challenge, please copy and paste your entire challenge and re-post in a new message, letting us know it is completed.

*Information found on traveltrivia.com.

✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱ ✱

1. Japan: Beer
Japan has the highest concentration of vending machines in the world, with over 5 million nationwide. Known as jidouhanbaiki, they sell everything from wigs for dogs, canned bread, and even edible bugs. Travelers become accustomed to finding them on every street corner, but machines selling beer (and other alcoholic drinks) are far less common. To confirm that you are old enough to partake, you must insert your driver’s license into the slot to verify your age. If you happen to indulge a little too much, you’ll find vending machines that sell hangover cures as well.
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
In the Melbourne suburb of Collingwood, help is on hand for musicians who find themselves in a pre-gig panic. Outside the Clingan Guitar Tone store is an unusual vending machine that is stocked with guitar strings, picks, straps, leads, and even drumsticks. No matter what’s broken, there’s a part to fix it. Even though they were to first to introduce this musician's dream machine, you can now find similar ones in the US cities of Portland and Nashville.
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The) or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
Local farm-fresh milk has undergone a resurgence in recent years as consumers seek to reduce their food miles and carbon footprint. Those looking to ditch their cartons should have no problem doing so in the English county of Dorset where a herd of Friesian cows graze on lush pastures, supplying the pasteurized milk sold directly from local vending machines. If it’s your first visit, the staff will sell you a reusable glass bottle to take your milk home. Similar outlets can be found in other countries in Europe.
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
Alongside its well-stocked bookshelves, the Monkey’s Paw rare bookstore in Toronto has a curious vending machine called the Biblio-Mat. You can buy tokens for it from the cashier for $3 . The machine is very old school, so you’ll experience plenty of whirring and clunking before the ring of an old telephone bell signals that your book is on its way. But don’t expect to choose your selection - the books are randomly dispensed to add an element of mystery and suspense to your purchase.
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).

5. Germany: LEGOs
When LEGO vending machines were first installed in the Munich and Frankfurt railway stations, German parents breathed a sigh of relief, as their children traveling in tow would no longer be bored on a long journey. Since then, the rollout has spread across the Atlantic, and travelers have reported seeing LEGO machines in US airports such as Las Vegas and Orlando. If you like the idea but don’t plan to travel anytime soon, you could always build your own vending machine out of the iconic toy bricks instead.
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
There’s nothing uncommon about grabbing juice from a vending machine, but in Taiwan and other parts of Asia, they go one step further. Pop in your money and a vending machine will drill a hole in a fresh coconut. All you have to do is pick up a straw and enjoy the healthy and hydrating drink. If you prefer the taste of oranges, there are machines that will squeeze enough oranges to fill the cup you’ve selected; simply pop on a lid and you’re good to go.
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
Vending machines that dispense real gold bars and coins were first seen in Abu Dhabi in 2010. While that gold ATM is no longer operable, a new one was installed in Prague in 2021. Located side-by-side with more conventional ATMs, the machine is outside the Nový Smíchov shopping mall in the capital of the Czech Republic. In exchange for your hard-earned euros or Czech crowns, the vending machine will supply gold bars in three different sizes.
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
Although it’s no longer operable, this vending machine deserves an honorable mention. There was a time when you could serve yourself a tub of mashed potatoes directly from vending machines found in Singapore’s 7-Eleven stores. These machines once dispensed a generous serving of the popular comfort food along with a dollop of gravy. They have unfortunately been withdrawn from service, so if you crave mashed potatoes in Singapore now, you must buy the ingredients to make your own.
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.


message 2: by Jan, Moderator (last edited Jan 25, 2025 09:02AM) (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Participants

Barb ~ Completed
Bev ~ Completed
Catsalive ~ Completed
Ed ~ Completed
Frankie ~ Completed
Jan ~ Completed
Judy ~ Completed
Karen ♐ ~ Completed
Meg ~ Completed
Olivermagnus ~ Completed
Patrizia ~ Completed
Ruth ~ Completed
Tari ~ Completed
Teri-k ~ Completed
Trish ~ Completed
Vanessa ~ Completed


message 3: by Jan, Moderator (last edited Jun 24, 2024 10:02AM) (new)

Jan | 20734 comments My Spot

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion
Task 8/8
Spell 6/6

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage ("I sipped the wine. It was as dark as mavrodaphne and tasted of cherries".). My Brother Michael | Mary Stewart 5/15/24****
My Brother Michael by Mary Stewart

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The). The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo | Stieg Larsson 5/29/24****
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, #1) by Stieg Larsson

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (Kingsmarkham, England): From Doon With Death | Ruth Rendell 3/11/24***
From Doon With Death (Inspector Wexford, #1) by Ruth Rendell

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count (273 Pages). A Dark and Stormy Murder | Julia Buckley 5/8/23***
A Dark and Stormy Murder (A Writer's Apprentice Mystery, #1) by Julia Buckley

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (David): Madam, Will You Talk? | Mary Stewart 4/16/24****
Madam, Will You Talk? by Mary Stewart

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (Singapore): Crazy Rich Asians | Kevin Kwan 3/6/24***
Crazy Rich Asians (Crazy Rich Asians, #1) by Kevin Kwan

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD (Lance): Madam Love, Actually | Rich Amooi3/4/24***
Madam Love, Actually by Rich Amooi

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read. Stormy Petrel | Mary Stewart 5/6/24****
Stormy Petrel by Mary Stewart

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
T - Two Testaments | Elizabeth Musser 3/13/24**
A - (Author A): The Silent Patient | Alex Michaelides 4/10/24***
I - Imogene from: Love & Saffron | Kim Fay 3/2/24***
W - Waiting Season | Melanie Lageschulte 3/18/24****
A - Ava from: You Don't Want To Know | Lisa Jackson 6/2/24*
N - (Author): Blood River | C.E. Nelson 6/20/24***

Two Testaments (Secrets of the Cross Trilogy #2) by Elizabeth Musser The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides Love & Saffron by Kim Fay Waiting Season (Melinda Foster, #4) by Melanie Lageschulte You Don't Want To Know by Lisa Jackson Blood River (Trask Brothers Mysteries, #2) by C.E. Nelson


message 4: by Patrizia, Contributor (last edited Apr 24, 2024 02:11AM) (new)

Patrizia | 1346 comments I loved Lego as a child, so I'm off to Germany to spell out!

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

8/8 tasks
7/7 spell out

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).
"Weber had ordened his standard Coors, while Parks had a Screwdriver. [...] Weber tilted the mouth of his bottle toward Parks, then drank" (18% kindle)- Big Lake by Nick Russell 16 March; 4 1/2☆
Big Lake (Big Lake #1) by Nick Russell

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The) or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).
An Unforgiving Place by Claire Kells 29 March; 5☆
An Unforgiving Place (National Parks Mystery #2) by Claire Kells

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).
Ireland- Murder at an Irish Castle by Ellie Brannigan 14 March; 4 1/2☆
Murder at an Irish Castle by Ellie Brannigan

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
325 pages- The Burning Pages by Paige Shelton 27 March; 5☆
The Burning Pages (Scottish Bookshop Mystery, #7) by Paige Shelton

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
A Sprinkling of Murder by Daryl Wood Gerber 6 March; 4 1/2☆
A Sprinkling of Murder (A Fairy Garden Mystery, #1) by Daryl Wood Gerber

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
Murder on an Irish Farm by Carlene O'Connor 4 April; 4 1/2☆
Murder on an Irish Farm (Irish Village Mystery, #8) by Carlene O'Connor

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).
Gustavo- Killer Past by Ali Olson 10 March; 4 1/2☆
Killer Past by Ali Olson

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.
series book #7- Breakup by Dana Stabenow 23 March; 4 1/2☆
Breakup (A Kate Shugak Investigation Book 7) by Dana Stabenow

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
Gray (author's last name)
Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray 15 April; 4☆
Emily (MC's name)
Tears of Pearl by Tasha Alexander 4 March; 4 1/2☆
Robbie (MC's name)
Biscuits and Slashed Browns by Maddie Day 8 March; 4 1/2☆
Murder (title)
Murder at Kingscote by Alyssa Maxwell 10 April; 5☆
Abby (MC's name) and Alexis (author's name)
Death by the Finish Line by Alexis Morgan 20 March; 5☆
Nicholas (author's name)
A Deadly Walk in Devon by Nicholas George 23 April; 4☆
Yosemite (title)
Yosemite Firestorm by Tanya Stowe 2 March; 4 1/2☆

Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray ; Tears of Pearl (A Lady Emily Mystery) by Tasha Alexander ; Biscuits and Slashed Browns (Country Store Mysteries, #4) by Maddie Day ; Murder at Kingscote (Gilded Newport Mysteries, #8) by Alyssa Maxwell ; Death by the Finish Line (Abby McCree Mystery, #5) by Alexis Morgan ; A Deadly Walk in Devon (A Walk Through England Mystery, #1) by Nicholas George ; Yosemite Firestorm (Love Inspired Suspense) by Tanya Stowe


message 5: by Catsalive (last edited Apr 07, 2024 10:22PM) (new)

Catsalive | 859 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion
13/13


1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) - the characters are all mature people
Madam, Will You Talk? by Mary Stewart 6/3 4★

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR
Antiques Disposal by Barbara Allan 1/3 2★

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book with the word COW found in the text - "she milks the cows in Sevres bowls" p.116
The Devil On Horseback by Victoria Holt 7/3 2.5★

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count - 307p
Wild Card by Simon Rowell 3/3 5★

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO
A Boy and His Dog at the End of the World by C.A. Fletcher 2/3 3.5★

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT
Things She Would Have Said Herself by Catherine Therese 8/4 3★

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD - Giles
Lady with a Black Umbrella by Mary Balogh 1/3 2★

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a book you consider "comfort food"
Lord Freddie's First Love by Patricia Bray 8/3 2.5★

Madam, Will You Talk? by Mary Stewart Antiques Disposal (A Trash 'n' Treasures Mystery, #6) by Barbara Allan The Devil on Horseback by Victoria Holt Wild Card (Detective Zoe Mayer #2) by Simon Rowell A Boy and His Dog at the End of the World by C.A. Fletcher Things She Would Have Said Herself by Catherine Therese Lady with a Black Umbrella by Mary Balogh Lord Freddie's First Love by Patricia Bray

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.

J- Summer at the Comfort Food Café by Debbie Johnson 11/3 5★
A- Addison - The Red Book by Deborah Copaken Kogan 5/3 1.5★
P- The Red Carnelian by Phyllis A. Whitney 8/3 2.5★
A- Annie - Murder on the Menu by Miranda Bliss 9/3 1.5★
N- The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster 2/3 5★
Summer at the Comfort Food Cafe (Comfort Food Cafe #1) by Debbie Johnson The Red Book by Deborah Copaken Kogan The Red Carnelian by Phyllis A. Whitney Murder on the Menu (A Cooking Class Mystery, #2) by Miranda Bliss The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster


message 6: by Tari (last edited Mar 27, 2024 09:14AM) (new)

Tari (thann) | 945 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

8/8
7/7 spell

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).
Murder Mystery at the Castle Avery Kent 3/1/24 p 143 “…took a sip of the wine anyway. Kitty did too.” (Kitty’s the MC)

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).
Rhythm and Clues Olivia Blacke 3/26/24

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).
Pour-Over Predicament Tonya Kappes 3/3/24
p 73 “…little touches like the antique cow creamers...” ( refers to containers for coffee cream)

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
132-A Locked Outhouse Murder Julie Ecker 3/2/24

5. Germany: LEGOs✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
Moonlight, Marshmallows & Manslaughter Tonya Kappes 3/14/24

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
NC-Three Fudges and a Baby Nancy CoCo 3/26/24

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD
or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).
Liz-Halloween Queen Una Madison 3/7/24

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.
Turkey Trot Trouble Max Parrott 3/10/24

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
Evie mc-Bespelled Cookies Cindy Stark 3/5/24
Nellie-Business Is Murder Nellie H. Steele 3/15/24
Gigi-A Midnight Puzzle Gigi Pandian 3/15/24
L Life Is a Beach Una Madison 3/4/24
Amity-Polar Fleecing Amity Allen 3/4/24
Nikki mc-Cryptic Cupcakes Kate Jach 3/18/24
D A Deadly Morsel Savannah Marlake 3/8/24



message 7: by Barb (last edited Apr 09, 2024 10:40AM) (new)

Barb | 1621 comments TRAVEL TRIVIA: UNUSUAL GLOBAL VENDING MACHINES, no deadline
8/8 TASKS COMPLETE + 2/2 WORDS SPELLED


1. JAPAN: BEER
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text)
Back of Beyond (Highway Quartet #1), by C.J. Box, finished 3/3/24 ★★.5
Cody, a recovering alcoholic, falls off the wagon and is drunk off and on throughout the book

2. AUSTRALIA: GUITAR STRINGS
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
To Slip the Bonds of Earth (Katharine Wright #1), by Amanda Flower, finished 3/1/24 ★★★.5

3. ENGLAND: FARM-FRESH MILK
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where)
England : The Body in the Garden (Lily Adler #1), by Katharine Schellman, finished 3/13/24 ★★★★

4. CANADA: SECONDHAND BOOKS
Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover)
386 pages : The Good Thief’s Guide to Venice (Good Thief’s Guide #4), by Chris Ewan, finished 3/14/24 ★★★.5

5. GERMANY: LEGOS
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order)
Rogue Protocol (Murderbot Diaries #3), by Martha Wells, finished 3/7/24 ★★★.5

6. TAIWAN: FRESH COCONUT JUICE
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT
author Catherine CoulterInsidious (FBI #20), finished 3/23/24 ★★★★

7. CZECH REPUBLIC: GOLD BARS
✱ Read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date)
publ 7-13-21 : Midnight Spells Murder (Happy Camper #2), by Mary Angela, finished 4/5/24 ★★★.5

8. SINGAPORE: MASHED POTATOES
✱ Read a series book #7
The Sanctuary Sparrow (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael #7), by Ellis Peters, finished 3/19/24 ★★★★

To Slip the Bonds of Earth (Katharine Wright #1) by Amanda Flower Back of Beyond (Highway Quartet, #1) by C.J. Box Rogue Protocol (The Murderbot Diaries, #3) by Martha Wells The Body in the Garden (Lily Adler Mystery, #1) by Katharine Schellman The Good Thief's Guide to Venice (Good Thief's Guide, #4) by Chris Ewan The Sanctuary Sparrow (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael, #7) by Ellis Peters Insidious (FBI Thriller, #20) by Catherine Coulter Midnight Spells Murder (A Happy Camper Mystery) by Mary Angela


SPELL OUT
G = Going, Going, Dead (Perfectly Proper Paranormal Museum #6), by Kirsten Weiss, finished 3/8/24 ★★★★
E = author Elizabeth PetersSeeing a Large Cat (Amelia Peabody #9), finished 3/11/24 ★★★★
R = author Rex StoutThe League of Frightened Men (Nero Wolfe #2), finished 3/2/24 ★★★.5
M = author Marty Wngate – A Body at the Dance Hall (London Ladies’ Murder Club #3), finished 3/18/24 ★★★★
A = author Susan Wittig AlbertCat’s Claw (China Bayles #20), finished 3/22/24 ★★★★
N = Nine Lives, by Peter Swanson, finished 3/5/24 ★★★★
Y = author Yvonne VincentThe Laird’s Ladle (Losers Club #2), finished 3/12/24 ★★★
The League of Frightened Men (Nero Wolfe, #2) by Rex Stout Nine Lives by Peter Swanson Going, Going, Dead (Perfectly Proper Paranormal Museum #6) by Kirsten Weiss Seeing a Large Cat (Amelia Peabody, #9) by Elizabeth Peters The Laird’s Ladle A Losers Club Murder Mystery (Book 2) by Yvonne Vincent A Body at the Dance Hall (London Ladies' Murder Club #3) by Marty Wingate Cat's Claw (China Bayles, #20) by Susan Wittig Albert

S = author Sarah FoxFor Whom the Bread Rolls (Pancake House #2), finished 3/16/24 ★★★★
I = In Farleigh Field, by Rhys Bowen, finished 3/17/24 ★★★.5
N = author Nancy ThayerThe Summer We Started Over, finished 4/8/24 ★★★★
G = author Graham BrackUntrue Till Death (Master Mercurius #2), finished 3/10/24 ★★★★
A = author Susan Wittig AlbertThe Darling Dahlias and the Eleven O’Clock Lady (Darling Dahlias #6), finished 3/24/24 ★★★★
P = author Andrea PenroseMurder at Half Moon Gate (Wrexford & Sloane #2), finished 3/6/24 ★★★★
O = Off the Air, by Christina Estes, finished 3/9/24 ★★★.5
R = Rhythm and Clues (Record Shop #3), by Olivia Blacke, finished 3/4/24 ★★★.5
E = author Mary Anna EvansArtifacts (Faye Longchamp #1), finished 3/12/24 ★★★.5
Rhythm and Clues (The Record Shop Mysteries, #3) by Olivia Blacke Murder at Half Moon Gate (A Wrexford & Sloane Mystery) by Andrea Penrose Off the Air by Christina Estes Untrue till Death by Graham Brack Artifacts (Faye Longchamp, #1) by Mary Anna Evans For Whom the Bread Rolls (Pancake House Mystery, #2) by Sarah Fox In Farleigh Field by Rhys Bowen The Darling Dahlias and the Eleven O'Clock Lady (The Darling Dahlias, #6) by Susan Wittig Albert The Summer We Started Over by Nancy Thayer


message 8: by Frankie (last edited May 08, 2024 09:37AM) (new)

Frankie Johnson | 534 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

14/14 Completed. Finished

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).
Pg.156"...chugging the beer, then tossing it into the recycling."
Alaric-Jessica Gadziala 3/24/24

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
Take Me Back-Rosalind James 3/28/24

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where)
(London)
Until Hanna-Aurora Rose Reynolds 3/14/24

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
(393)
Dirty Mother-Lani Lynn Vale 3/03/24

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
Delilah Green Doesn't Care-Ashley Herring Blake 3/08/24

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
Catherine Cowles-Ashes of You 4/03/24

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).
(03/18/21)
Frayed-Laura Pavlov 3/02/24

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11
(Detective Casey White #11)
Her Last Hour-B.R. Spangler 3/14/24

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
Taiwan
09.T:Till Death Do Us Part-Willow Rose 3/01/24
10.A:Affliction-River Savage 3/09/24
11.I:Irresistible-Willow Aster 3/21/24
12.W:The Wife You Know-Chad Zunker 4/22/24
13.A:And I Love Her-Marie Force 3/03/24
14.N:Nothing But It All-Adriana Locke 3/03/24


message 9: by Olivermagnus (last edited Oct 09, 2024 06:15PM) (new)

 Olivermagnus (lynda11282) | 1046 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

15
of 15 Complete

1. Japan: Beer
Japan has the highest concentration of vending machines in the world, with over 5 million nationwide. Known as jidouhanbaiki, they sell everything from wigs for dogs, canned bread, and even edible bugs. Travelers become accustomed to finding them on every street corner, but machines selling beer (and other alcoholic drinks) are far less common. To confirm that you are old enough to partake, you must insert your driver’s license into the slot to verify your age. If you happen to indulge a little too much, you’ll find vending machines that sell hangover cures as well.
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature).
Own the Wind - Kristen Ashley - 4/27/24 - erotic motorcycle club romance

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
In the Melbourne suburb of Collingwood, help is on hand for musicians who find themselves in a pre-gig panic. Outside the Clingan Guitar Tone store is an unusual vending machine that is stocked with guitar strings, picks, straps, leads, and even drumsticks. No matter what’s broken, there’s a part to fix it. Even though they were to first to introduce this musician's dream machine, you can now find similar ones in the US cities of Portland and Nashville.
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The).
The Great Alone - Kristin Hannah - 3/4/24

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
Local farm-fresh milk has undergone a resurgence in recent years as consumers seek to reduce their food miles and carbon footprint. Those looking to ditch their cartons should have no problem doing so in the English county of Dorset where a herd of Friesian cows graze on lush pastures, supplying the pasteurized milk sold directly from local vending machines. If it’s your first visit, the staff will sell you a reusable glass bottle to take your milk home. Similar outlets can be found in other countries in Europe.
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where).
In the Woods - Tana French - 3/15/24 - set in Ireland

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
Alongside its well-stocked bookshelves, the Monkey’s Paw rare bookstore in Toronto has a curious vending machine called the Biblio-Mat. You can buy tokens for it from the cashier for $3 . The machine is very old school, so you’ll experience plenty of whirring and clunking before the ring of an old telephone bell signals that your book is on its way. But don’t expect to choose your selection - the books are randomly dispensed to add an element of mystery and suspense to your purchase.
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
Maisie Dobbs - Jacqueline Winspear - 3/10/24- 333 pages

5. Germany: LEGOs
When LEGO vending machines were first installed in the Munich and Frankfurt railway stations, German parents breathed a sigh of relief, as their children traveling in tow would no longer be bored on a long journey. Since then, the rollout has spread across the Atlantic, and travelers have reported seeing LEGO machines in US airports such as Las Vegas and Orlando. If you like the idea but don’t plan to travel anytime soon, you could always build your own vending machine out of the iconic toy bricks instead.
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who).
Journey to the River Sea - Eva Ibbotson - 3/22/24 - This book is about Maia, an orphan in London and her journey to the Amazon rain forest.

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
There’s nothing uncommon about grabbing juice from a vending machine, but in Taiwan and other parts of Asia, they go one step further. Pop in your money and a vending machine will drill a hole in a fresh coconut. All you have to do is pick up a straw and enjoy the healthy and hydrating drink. If you prefer the taste of oranges, there are machines that will squeeze enough oranges to fill the cup you’ve selected; simply pop on a lid and you’re good to go.
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
Convenience Store Woman - Sayaka Murata - 3/21/24 - set in Japan

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
Vending machines that dispense real gold bars and coins were first seen in Abu Dhabi in 2010. While that gold ATM is no longer operable, a new one was installed in Prague in 2021. Located side-by-side with more conventional ATMs, the machine is outside the Nový Smíchov shopping mall in the capital of the Czech Republic. In exchange for your hard-earned euros or Czech crowns, the vending machine will supply gold bars in three different sizes.
✱ Read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).
Clockwork Angel - Cassandra Clare - 3/8/24 - orig pub Aug 31, 2010

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
Although it’s no longer operable, this vending machine deserves an honorable mention. There was a time when you could serve yourself a tub of mashed potatoes directly from vending machines found in Singapore’s 7-Eleven stores. These machines once dispensed a generous serving of the popular comfort food along with a dollop of gravy. They have unfortunately been withdrawn from service, so if you crave mashed potatoes in Singapore now, you must buy the ingredients to make your own.
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.
Holiday in Death - J.D. Robb - 5/20/24 - #7 In Death

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
E - Eka Kurniawan - Man Tiger - 5/6/24
N - None of This Is True - Lisa Jewell - 4/23/24
G - Grimspace - Ann Aguirre - 4/22/24
L - Local Girl Missing - Lisa Regan - 5/18/24
A - Airport - Arthur Hailey - 4/11/24
N - No One Knows - J.T. Ellison - 5/26/24
D - Dave Cullen - Columbine - 5/16/24


message 10: by Ruth (last edited Feb 27, 2024 10:15AM) (new)

Ruth (ruthie1) | 604 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

0/13 Completed


1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The) or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
J
A
P
A
N


message 11: by Meg, Contributor (last edited Apr 16, 2024 02:57PM) (new)

Meg (makeli2) | 950 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage => "Marjorie took a sip of brandy and noticed Horace and Edna..." kindle pg 169
Murder at the Opera House (A Lady Marjorie Snellthorpe Mystery Book 1) by Dawn Brookes Murder at the Opera House, Dawn Brookes 04/12

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR
Urn Burial (Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries #8) by Kerry Greenwood Urn Burial, Kerry Greenwood 03/02

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe ==> France
A Murder in Paris (A Year in Europe, #1) by Blake Pierce A Murder in Paris, Blake Pierce 03/24

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover
One Book in the Grave (Bibliophile Mystery, #5) by Kate Carlisle One Book in the Grave, Kate Carlisle 03/04

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager ==> Betty and her fellow Girl Scouts
Map Skills Murder (Merry Wrath Mysteries, #7) by Leslie Langtry Map Skills Murder, Leslie Langtry 03/08

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
The Cove (FBI Thriller, #1) by Catherine Coulter The Cove, Catherine Coulter 03/21

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD ==> Lily
For the Love of Friends by Sara Goodman Confino For the Love of Friends, Sara Goodman Confino 03/24

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 AND a book you consider "comfort food"
The Double Comfort Safari Club (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, #11) by Alexander McCall Smith The Double Comfort Safari Club, Alexander McCall Smith 03/01

Optional Spell Out:
G - Eva Gates - Deadly Ever After 04/15
E - Elizabeth Edmondson - A Matter of Loyalty 03/16
R - Kristi Rose - One Hit Wonder 04/13
M - Miranda James -File M for Murder 04/11
A - Annelise Ryan - Dead in the Water 03/20
N - Toby Neal - Coconut Wireless 03/20
Y - Ovidia Yu - The Betel Nut Tree Mystery 04/10


message 12: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Welcome everyone! Have fun!


message 13: by Judy (last edited Jul 11, 2024 04:06AM) (new)

Judy Fleener | 138 comments Finished
Unusual Vending Machines
Japan: Beer
X✱ 1.Read a book with a "mature" story line Annie Bot Sierra Greer An AI robot designed to meet men's emotion and physical needs. 5/21

X 2. Australia: Guitar Strings
X ✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The) Going, Going, Ganache Jenn McKinlay 5/9

X 3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book with the word COW found in the text
my cow mooed to let me know I hadn't paid any attention to her . P 36 The GlovemakerAnn Weisgarber 5/5

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
X ✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover A Death Long Overdue Eva Gates A Death Long Overdue (Lighthouse Library Mystery, #7) by Eva Gates 5/3

X 5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a teenager Sam the son of Jacobia Tiptree.The Book of Old Houses Sarah Graves 7/2

X 6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) Singapore Singapore Sapphire A.M. Stuart 7/7

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date). Lindsey Word to the Wise Jenn McKinlay 7/11

X 8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.Judy Alter Irene in the Ghost Kitchen 7/1 (this title did not come up in the search)


message 14: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Judy wrote: "Add me please"

Sure thing Judy! Welcome!


message 15: by Trish (last edited Feb 29, 2024 12:40AM) (new)

Trish (trishhartuk) | 276 comments This one sounds fun!

Running 1 March to 31 May
0/8
Spell-it-out extra:

Add me please
1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The) or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).

4. Canada: Second-hand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).

5. Germany: LEGO
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out...

I'll see what I read on that one!


message 16: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Enjoy the challenge Trish!


message 17: by Ed (last edited Jul 31, 2024 12:43PM) (new)

Ed Lehman | 707 comments *****COMPLETED 6/5/24*****

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

8/8 tasks
7/7 spell out

1. Japan: Beer
Japan has the highest concentration of vending machines in the world, with over 5 million nationwide. Known as jidouhanbaiki, they sell everything from wigs for dogs, canned bread, and even edible bugs. Travelers become accustomed to finding them on every street corner, but machines selling beer (and other alcoholic drinks) are far less common. To confirm that you are old enough to partake, you must insert your driver’s license into the slot to verify your age. If you happen to indulge a little too much, you’ll find vending machines that sell hangover cures as well.
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) - involves a love triangle- Design for Living by Noël Coward- 3/11/24
or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
In the Melbourne suburb of Collingwood, help is on hand for musicians who find themselves in a pre-gig panic. Outside the Clingan Guitar Tone store is an unusual vending machine that is stocked with guitar strings, picks, straps, leads, and even drumsticks. No matter what’s broken, there’s a part to fix it. Even though they were to first to introduce this musician's dream machine, you can now find similar ones in the US cities of Portland and Nashville.
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)- Unruly Places: Lost Spaces, Secret Cities, and Other Inscrutable Geographies by Alastair Bonnett-3/5/24
or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
Local farm-fresh milk has undergone a resurgence in recent years as consumers seek to reduce their food miles and carbon footprint. Those looking to ditch their cartons should have no problem doing so in the English county of Dorset where a herd of Friesian cows graze on lush pastures, supplying the pasteurized milk sold directly from local vending machines. If it’s your first visit, the staff will sell you a reusable glass bottle to take your milk home. Similar outlets can be found in other countries in Europe.
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).-p.244- 14,000 Things to Be Happy About: The Happy Book-"...baking powder biscuits...milking cows..." 3/2/24

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
Alongside its well-stocked bookshelves, the Monkey’s Paw rare bookstore in Toronto has a curious vending machine called the Biblio-Mat. You can buy tokens for it from the cashier for $3 . The machine is very old school, so you’ll experience plenty of whirring and clunking before the ring of an old telephone bell signals that your book is on its way. But don’t expect to choose your selection - the books are randomly dispensed to add an element of mystery and suspense to your purchase.
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).- 353p.- The Penultimate Peril by Lemony Snicket-3/18/24-

5. Germany: LEGOs
When LEGO vending machines were first installed in the Munich and Frankfurt railway stations, German parents breathed a sigh of relief, as their children traveling in tow would no longer be bored on a long journey. Since then, the rollout has spread across the Atlantic, and travelers have reported seeing LEGO machines in US airports such as Las Vegas and Orlando. If you like the idea but don’t plan to travel anytime soon, you could always build your own vending machine out of the iconic toy bricks instead.
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who)- The MC is a boy or teenager whose age is never revealed however in Tintin in the Congo by Hergé- 3/10/24
or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
There’s nothing uncommon about grabbing juice from a vending machine, but in Taiwan and other parts of Asia, they go one step further. Pop in your money and a vending machine will drill a hole in a fresh coconut. All you have to do is pick up a straw and enjoy the healthy and hydrating drink. If you prefer the taste of oranges, there are machines that will squeeze enough oranges to fill the cup you’ve selected; simply pop on a lid and you’re good to go.
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where)-Thailand- Mrs. Pollifax and the Golden Triangle by Dorothy Gilman-5/22/24
or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
Vending machines that dispense real gold bars and coins were first seen in Abu Dhabi in 2010. While that gold ATM is no longer operable, a new one was installed in Prague in 2021. Located side-by-side with more conventional ATMs, the machine is outside the Nový Smíchov shopping mall in the capital of the Czech Republic. In exchange for your hard-earned euros or Czech crowns, the vending machine will supply gold bars in three different sizes.
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).-pub. 2021- Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide by Cecily Wong - 3/11/24-

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
Although it’s no longer operable, this vending machine deserves an honorable mention. There was a time when you could serve yourself a tub of mashed potatoes directly from vending machines found in Singapore’s 7-Eleven stores. These machines once dispensed a generous serving of the popular comfort food along with a dollop of gravy. They have unfortunately been withdrawn from service, so if you crave mashed potatoes in Singapore now, you must buy the ingredients to make your own.
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" - not serious reading...just fun- Agatha Raisin and the Witch of Wyckhadden by M.C. Beaton-3/7/24
or one you were "craving" to read.

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.

J- Atlas Obscura: An Explorer's Guide to the World's Hidden Wonders by Joshua Foer-3/26/24
A- The Reader's Companion to Cuba by Alan Ryan-3/21/24
P- Burma Sahib by Paul Theroux-4/10/24
A- -America (The Book): A Citizen's Guide to Democracy Inaction by Jon Stewart-6/5/24
N- The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play by Neil A. Fiore-4/11/24


message 18: by Karen ♐ (last edited Aug 09, 2024 09:08AM) (new)

Karen ♐ (kmk1214) | 1338 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

8/8 tasks
7/7 spell out


1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature)
- MC is middle aged - Daddy's Waiting Pepper North - 3/11/24

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
- Rooted in Sin Alta Hensley - 3/4/24

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where)
- London - Gentleman Sinner Jodi Ellen Malpas - 3/14/24

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
- 243 pgs - Exposed Jennifer Bene - 3/10/24

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
- Hayleigh's Little Halloween Stella Moore - 4/2/24

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
- Bad Boy Billionaire - Part One (The Bad Boy Billionaire Series Book 1) Coco Cadence - 8/7/24

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD
- Lizzy-Breaking Rules: Billionaires in Disguise: Lizzy Blair Babylon - 3/12/24

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a book you consider "comfort food"
- Campaigning for Christopher Katy Regnery - 3/22/24

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
E - Man Hands Tanya Eby - 3/20/24
N - That Man 1 Nelle L'Amour - 3/26/24
G - Kasia Garska-Taken By Him Measha Stone - 3/23/24
L - Broken Record K.A. Linde - 3/25/24
A - Four Firemen For Christmas Ajme Williams - 3/20/24
N - That Man 2 Nelle L'Amour - 3/30/24
D - Sweet Distraction Lainey Davis - 3/2/24


message 19: by Teri-K (last edited Apr 14, 2024 07:00AM) (new)

Teri-K | 1247 comments Australia, Canada and Germany have the best IMO! All of those would be handy for me. (Singapore would have been too tempting, I'm afraid.)

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

Tasks Completed: 8/8
1. Japan: Beer
Japan has the highest concentration of vending machines in the world, with over 5 million nationwide. Known as jidouhanbaiki, they sell everything from wigs for dogs, canned bread, and even edible bugs. Travelers become accustomed to finding them on every street corner, but machines selling beer (and other alcoholic drinks) are far less common. To confirm that you are old enough to partake, you must insert your driver’s license into the slot to verify your age. If you happen to indulge a little too much, you’ll find vending machines that sell hangover cures as well.
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature)
When a Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare 3/13
Lots of sexy encounters in this - too many for my taste.

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
In the Melbourne suburb of Collingwood, help is on hand for musicians who find themselves in a pre-gig panic. Outside the Clingan Guitar Tone store is an unusual vending machine that is stocked with guitar strings, picks, straps, leads, and even drumsticks. No matter what’s broken, there’s a part to fix it. Even though they were to first to introduce this musician's dream machine, you can now find similar ones in the US cities of Portland and Nashville.
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
Aspects of the Novel by E.M. Forster 3/4

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
Local farm-fresh milk has undergone a resurgence in recent years as consumers seek to reduce their food miles and carbon footprint. Those looking to ditch their cartons should have no problem doing so in the English county of Dorset where a herd of Friesian cows graze on lush pastures, supplying the pasteurized milk sold directly from local vending machines. If it’s your first visit, the staff will sell you a reusable glass bottle to take your milk home. Similar outlets can be found in other countries in Europe.
✱ Read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).
With This Ring by Carla Kelly 3/4
"knowing enough about him now to wish him well with his pigs and cows..." page 198

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
Alongside its well-stocked bookshelves, the Monkey’s Paw rare bookstore in Toronto has a curious vending machine called the Biblio-Mat. You can buy tokens for it from the cashier for $3 . The machine is very old school, so you’ll experience plenty of whirring and clunking before the ring of an old telephone bell signals that your book is on its way. But don’t expect to choose your selection - the books are randomly dispensed to add an element of mystery and suspense to your purchase.
✱ Read a book featuring a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
The Wolf Age: The Vikings, the Anglo-Saxons and the Battle for the North Sea Empire by Tore Skeie 3/4
332 pages

5. Germany: LEGOs
When LEGO vending machines were first installed in the Munich and Frankfurt railway stations, German parents breathed a sigh of relief, as their children traveling in tow would no longer be bored on a long journey. Since then, the rollout has spread across the Atlantic, and travelers have reported seeing LEGO machines in US airports such as Las Vegas and Orlando. If you like the idea but don’t plan to travel anytime soon, you could always build your own vending machine out of the iconic toy bricks instead.
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel by Emmuska Orczy 3/15

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
There’s nothing uncommon about grabbing juice from a vending machine, but in Taiwan and other parts of Asia, they go one step further. Pop in your money and a vending machine will drill a hole in a fresh coconut. All you have to do is pick up a straw and enjoy the healthy and hydrating drink. If you prefer the taste of oranges, there are machines that will squeeze enough oranges to fill the cup you’ve selected; simply pop on a lid and you’re good to go.
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
Metamorphoses by Ovid 3/13

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
Vending machines that dispense real gold bars and coins were first seen in Abu Dhabi in 2010. While that gold ATM is no longer operable, a new one was installed in Prague in 2021. Located side-by-side with more conventional ATMs, the machine is outside the Nový Smíchov shopping mall in the capital of the Czech Republic. In exchange for your hard-earned euros or Czech crowns, the vending machine will supply gold bars in three different sizes.
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD
Mojave Crossing by Louis L'Amour 3/12
Dorinda

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
Although it’s no longer operable, this vending machine deserves an honorable mention. There was a time when you could serve yourself a tub of mashed potatoes directly from vending machines found in Singapore’s 7-Eleven stores. These machines once dispensed a generous serving of the popular comfort food along with a dollop of gravy. They have unfortunately been withdrawn from service, so if you crave mashed potatoes in Singapore now, you must buy the ingredients to make your own.
✱ Read a book you were "craving" to read.
The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen 3/2
I bought it on impulse as I was craving a fun historical story.

When a Scot Ties the Knot (Castles Ever After, #3) by Tessa Dare Aspects of the Novel by E.M. Forster With This Ring (Signet Regency Romance) by Carla Kelly The Wolf Age The Vikings, the Anglo-Saxons and the Battle for the North Sea Empire by Tore Skeie The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel by Emmuska Orczy Metamorphoses by Ovid Mojave Crossing by Louis l'Amour The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart (Matchmakers, #1) by Nancy Campbell Allen

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.

S Salazar Crash Landing by Janice Kay Johnson 4/10
I Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri 3/22
N Nancy Mystery of the Tolling Bell by Carolyn Keene 3/26
G Green The Adventures of Robin Hood by Roger Lancelyn Green
A Apollonius The Voyage of Argo by Apollonius of Rhodes 3/21
P The Panther Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner 3/23
O Orwig The Mad, the Bad, and the Dangerous by Sara Orwig 3/16
R Dressed to Kilt by Hannah Reed 4/10
E Enter Ghost by Isabella Hammad 3/20

Crash Landing by Janice Kay Johnson Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri Mystery of the Tolling Bell (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories, #23) by Carolyn Keene The Adventures of Robin Hood by Roger Lancelyn Green The Voyage of Argo by Apollonius of Rhodes The Panther Mystery (The Boxcar Children, #66) by Gertrude Chandler Warner The Mad, the Bad, and the Dangerous by Sara Orwig Dressed to Kilt (Scottish Highlands, #3) by Hannah Reed Enter Ghost by Isabella Hammad


message 20: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Welcome to the challenge Ed, Karen & Teri!


message 21: by Patrizia, Contributor (new)

Patrizia | 1346 comments Jan, I'm not on the participant list...


message 22: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments I will get that fixed Patrizia! Sorry!!


message 23: by Patrizia, Contributor (new)

Patrizia | 1346 comments No problem.


message 24: by Bev(baglady) (last edited Jan 24, 2025 01:14PM) (new)

Bev(baglady) (blbaglady) | 577 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 - ??


1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).
Seven Fallen Feathers Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City by Tanya Talaga Tanya Talaga 01/21/2025

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The) or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).
Go by Kazuki Kaneshiro Kazuki Kaneshiro 01/11/2025

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).
The Man Who Played with Fire Stieg Larsson's Lost Files and the Hunt for an Assassin by Jan Stocklassa Jan Stocklassa 01/14/2025

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
These Things Hidden by Heather Gudenkauf Heather Gudenkauf 01/17/2025 337 pages

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries (Camper & Criminals, #1) by Tonya Kappes Tonya Kappes 01/11/2025

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
A Thousand Broken Pieces (A Thousand Boy Kisses, #2) by Tillie Cole Tillie Cole 01/03/2025

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).
Broken (In the Best Possible Way) by Jenny Lawson Jenny Lawson 01/08/2025 Published - 04/06/2021

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.
A Matter of Justice (Inspector Ian Rutledge, #11) by Charles Todd Charles Todd 03/04/2024 Series Book #11

Spell out

JAPAN
J - John Wayne Gacy: Defending a Monster Sam L. Amirante 08/06/2024
A - Afraid of the Dark: The True Story of a Reckless Husband, his Stunning Wife, and the Murder that Shattered a Family Tom Henderson 0/26/2024
P - Alan Paton Cry, the Beloved Country 12/04/2024
A - Annabel Smith Whiskey & Charlie 11/20/2024
N- Nonprofit Management 101: A Complete and Practical Guide for Leaders and Professionals Darian Rodriguez Heyman 09/15/2024


message 25: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Have fun Bev!


message 26: by Tari (new)

Tari (thann) | 945 comments Finished

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

8/8
7/7 spell

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).
Murder Mystery at the Castle Avery Kent 3/1/24 p 143 “…took a sip of the wine anyway. Kitty did too.” (Kitty’s the MC)

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).
Rhythm and Clues Olivia Blacke 3/26/24

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).
Pour-Over Predicament Tonya Kappes 3/3/24
p 73 “…little touches like the antique cow creamers...” ( refers to containers for coffee cream)

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
132-A Locked Outhouse Murder Julie Ecker 3/2/24

5. Germany: LEGOs✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
Moonlight, Marshmallows & Manslaughter Tonya Kappes 3/14/24

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
NC-Three Fudges and a Baby Nancy CoCo 3/26/24

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD
or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).
Liz-Halloween Queen Una Madison 3/7/24

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.
Turkey Trot Trouble Max Parrott 3/10/24

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
Evie mc-Bespelled Cookies Cindy Stark 3/5/24
Nellie-Business Is Murder Nellie H. Steele 3/15/24
Gigi-A Midnight Puzzle Gigi Pandian 3/15/24
L Life Is a Beach Una Madison 3/4/24
Amity-Polar Fleecing Amity Allen 3/4/24
Nikki mc-Cryptic Cupcakes Kate Jach 3/18/24
D A Deadly Morsel Savannah Marlake 3/8/24



message 27: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Terrific job Tari!


message 28: by Tari (new)

Tari (thann) | 945 comments Jan wrote: "Terrific job Tari!"

Thanks, Jan!


message 29: by Catsalive (new)

Catsalive | 859 comments Done

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion
13/13


1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) - the characters are all mature people
Madam, Will You Talk? by Mary Stewart 6/3 4★

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR
Antiques Disposal by Barbara Allan 1/3 2★

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book with the word COW found in the text - "she milks the cows in Sevres bowls" p.116
The Devil On Horseback by Victoria Holt 7/3 2.5★

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count - 307p
Wild Card by Simon Rowell 3/3 5★

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO
A Boy and His Dog at the End of the World by C.A. Fletcher 2/3 3.5★

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT
Things She Would Have Said Herself by Catherine Therese 8/4 3★

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD - Giles
Lady with a Black Umbrella by Mary Balogh 1/3 2★

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a book you consider "comfort food"
Lord Freddie's First Love by Patricia Bray 8/3 2.5★

Madam, Will You Talk? by Mary Stewart Antiques Disposal (A Trash 'n' Treasures Mystery, #6) by Barbara Allan The Devil on Horseback by Victoria Holt Wild Card (Detective Zoe Mayer #2) by Simon Rowell A Boy and His Dog at the End of the World by C.A. Fletcher Things She Would Have Said Herself by Catherine Therese Lady with a Black Umbrella by Mary Balogh Lord Freddie's First Love by Patricia Bray

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.

J- Summer at the Comfort Food Café by Debbie Johnson 11/3 5★
A- Addison - The Red Book by Deborah Copaken Kogan 5/3 1.5★
P- The Red Carnelian by Phyllis A. Whitney 8/3 2.5★
A- Annie - Murder on the Menu by Miranda Bliss 9/3 1.5★
N- The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster 2/3 5★
Summer at the Comfort Food Cafe (Comfort Food Cafe #1) by Debbie Johnson The Red Book by Deborah Copaken Kogan The Red Carnelian by Phyllis A. Whitney Murder on the Menu (A Cooking Class Mystery, #2) by Miranda Bliss The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster


message 30: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Fantastic job Kylie!


message 31: by Barb (new)

Barb | 1621 comments Finished

TRAVEL TRIVIA: UNUSUAL GLOBAL VENDING MACHINES, no deadline
8/8 TASKS COMPLETE + 2/2 WORDS SPELLED


1. JAPAN: BEER
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text)
Back of Beyond (Highway Quartet #1), by C.J. Box, finished 3/3/24 ★★.5
Cody, a recovering alcoholic, falls off the wagon and is drunk off and on throughout the book

2. AUSTRALIA: GUITAR STRINGS
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
To Slip the Bonds of Earth (Katharine Wright #1), by Amanda Flower, finished 3/1/24 ★★★.5

3. ENGLAND: FARM-FRESH MILK
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where)
England : The Body in the Garden (Lily Adler #1), by Katharine Schellman, finished 3/13/24 ★★★★

4. CANADA: SECONDHAND BOOKS
Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover)
386 pages : The Good Thief’s Guide to Venice (Good Thief’s Guide #4), by Chris Ewan, finished 3/14/24 ★★★.5

5. GERMANY: LEGOS
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order)
Rogue Protocol (Murderbot Diaries #3), by Martha Wells, finished 3/7/24 ★★★.5

6. TAIWAN: FRESH COCONUT JUICE
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT
author Catherine CoulterInsidious (FBI #20), finished 3/23/24 ★★★★

7. CZECH REPUBLIC: GOLD BARS
✱ Read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date)
publ 7-13-21 : Midnight Spells Murder (Happy Camper #2), by Mary Angela, finished 4/5/24 ★★★.5

8. SINGAPORE: MASHED POTATOES
✱ Read a series book #7
The Sanctuary Sparrow (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael #7), by Ellis Peters, finished 3/19/24 ★★★★

To Slip the Bonds of Earth (Katharine Wright #1) by Amanda Flower Back of Beyond (Highway Quartet, #1) by C.J. Box Rogue Protocol (The Murderbot Diaries, #3) by Martha Wells The Body in the Garden (Lily Adler Mystery, #1) by Katharine Schellman The Good Thief's Guide to Venice (Good Thief's Guide, #4) by Chris Ewan The Sanctuary Sparrow (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael, #7) by Ellis Peters Insidious (FBI Thriller, #20) by Catherine Coulter Midnight Spells Murder (A Happy Camper Mystery) by Mary Angela


SPELL OUT
G = Going, Going, Dead (Perfectly Proper Paranormal Museum #6), by Kirsten Weiss, finished 3/8/24 ★★★★
E = author Elizabeth PetersSeeing a Large Cat (Amelia Peabody #9), finished 3/11/24 ★★★★
R = author Rex StoutThe League of Frightened Men (Nero Wolfe #2), finished 3/2/24 ★★★.5
M = author Marty Wngate – A Body at the Dance Hall (London Ladies’ Murder Club #3), finished 3/18/24 ★★★★
A = author Susan Wittig AlbertCat’s Claw (China Bayles #20), finished 3/22/24 ★★★★
N = Nine Lives, by Peter Swanson, finished 3/5/24 ★★★★
Y = author Yvonne VincentThe Laird’s Ladle (Losers Club #2), finished 3/12/24 ★★★
The League of Frightened Men (Nero Wolfe, #2) by Rex Stout Nine Lives by Peter Swanson Going, Going, Dead (Perfectly Proper Paranormal Museum #6) by Kirsten Weiss Seeing a Large Cat (Amelia Peabody, #9) by Elizabeth Peters The Laird’s Ladle A Losers Club Murder Mystery (Book 2) by Yvonne Vincent A Body at the Dance Hall (London Ladies' Murder Club #3) by Marty Wingate Cat's Claw (China Bayles, #20) by Susan Wittig Albert

S = author Sarah FoxFor Whom the Bread Rolls (Pancake House #2), finished 3/16/24 ★★★★
I = In Farleigh Field, by Rhys Bowen, finished 3/17/24 ★★★.5
N = author Nancy ThayerThe Summer We Started Over, finished 4/8/24 ★★★★
G = author Graham BrackUntrue Till Death (Master Mercurius #2), finished 3/10/24 ★★★★
A = author Susan Wittig AlbertThe Darling Dahlias and the Eleven O’Clock Lady (Darling Dahlias #6), finished 3/24/24 ★★★★
P = author Andrea PenroseMurder at Half Moon Gate (Wrexford & Sloane #2), finished 3/6/24 ★★★★
O = Off the Air, by Christina Estes, finished 3/9/24 ★★★.5
R = Rhythm and Clues (Record Shop #3), by Olivia Blacke, finished 3/4/24 ★★★.5
E = author Mary Anna EvansArtifacts (Faye Longchamp #1), finished 3/12/24 ★★★.5
Rhythm and Clues (The Record Shop Mysteries, #3) by Olivia Blacke Murder at Half Moon Gate (A Wrexford & Sloane Mystery) by Andrea Penrose Off the Air by Christina Estes Untrue till Death by Graham Brack Artifacts (Faye Longchamp, #1) by Mary Anna Evans For Whom the Bread Rolls (Pancake House Mystery, #2) by Sarah Fox In Farleigh Field by Rhys Bowen The Darling Dahlias and the Eleven O'Clock Lady (The Darling Dahlias, #6) by Susan Wittig Albert The Summer We Started Over by Nancy Thayer


message 32: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Great job Barb! Impressive work with the spell outs!


message 33: by Barb (new)

Barb | 1621 comments Thanks :) I had all but one letter of the two spell outs filled in before I read the last book for the tasks, so why not finish both countries?


message 34: by Trish (last edited Apr 10, 2024 08:14AM) (new)

Trish (trishhartuk) | 276 comments I believe I'm finished...

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).

Mulled to Death, Kate Lansing – 19/03/24
“…this is made from my Snowy Day Syrah, an exceptional red on its own with aromas of vanilla and a jammy cherry finish, paired with my trademark mulling spices. Enjoy.” I finish with a flourish. Akira swirls and sniffs before taking a sip, gurgling like an expert. She cocks her head to the side while she swishes, her gaze cast over my shoulder. After she swallows, she nods, rolling her lips together.” (Kindle edition, pp. 22-23.)
“No, but it would’ve been horribly unprofessional.” I take another sip of my wine, the bouquet of flavors growing even more complex as it warms. (Kindle edition, p. 29).

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The) or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).

Greenwitch, Susan Cooper – 11/03/24
Guitar

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).

A Prayer for the Crown-Shy, Becky Chambers – 11/03/24
Cow in the text (twice):“And the cows, they’re happy?” Mosscap said. “They’re well kept?” Kindle edition, (p.65).
“But if I chose casein for my replacement part, I’d never know what cow I owed my thanks to.” Kindle edition (p.66)

4. Canada: Second-hand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).

The Question of the Missing Head, E.J. Copperman – 10/03/24
Page count: 336pg

5. Germany: LEGO
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).

Aunt Dimity and the Heart of Gold, Nancy Atherton – 21/03/24
LEGO: hEart GOLd

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book, an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.

Days at the Morisaki Bookshop, Satoshi Yagisawa – 22/03/24
Asia: set in Tokyo and Okutama, Japan

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).

Metamorphosis, Franz Kafka – 08/03/24
Gold: The main character is Gregor and his sister is Grete (plus, the author was Czech!)

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.

Big Little Spies (Paws and Claws Mystery #7), Krista Davis – 25/03/24
#7 in a series (https://www.goodreads.com/series/1024...), plus definitely at the “comfort” end of the cozy mystery genre, complete with lost of cute animals.

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out…

E = {E}ric, Terry Pratchett – 15/03/24
N = A {N}ight's Tail, Sofie Kelly – 10/04/24
G = Earthly Delights, Kerry {G}reenwood – 07/03/24
L = Mistletoe Murder, {L}eslie Meier - 08/04/24
A = Doctor Who: The Ruby's Curse, {A}lex Kingston – 05/03/24
N = The {N}ight Raven, Johan Rundberg – 12/03/24
D = Proof in the Photo, Kathi {D}aley – 03/03/24


message 35: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Congrats on your finish Trish!


message 36: by Trish (new)

Trish (trishhartuk) | 276 comments Thanks


message 37: by Teri-K (new)

Teri-K | 1247 comments I'm done - finally got those last two letters!

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

Tasks Completed: 8/8
1. Japan: Beer
Japan has the highest concentration of vending machines in the world, with over 5 million nationwide. Known as jidouhanbaiki, they sell everything from wigs for dogs, canned bread, and even edible bugs. Travelers become accustomed to finding them on every street corner, but machines selling beer (and other alcoholic drinks) are far less common. To confirm that you are old enough to partake, you must insert your driver’s license into the slot to verify your age. If you happen to indulge a little too much, you’ll find vending machines that sell hangover cures as well.
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature)
When a Scot Ties the Knot by Tessa Dare 3/13
Lots of sexy encounters in this - too many for my taste.

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
In the Melbourne suburb of Collingwood, help is on hand for musicians who find themselves in a pre-gig panic. Outside the Clingan Guitar Tone store is an unusual vending machine that is stocked with guitar strings, picks, straps, leads, and even drumsticks. No matter what’s broken, there’s a part to fix it. Even though they were to first to introduce this musician's dream machine, you can now find similar ones in the US cities of Portland and Nashville.
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
Aspects of the Novel by E.M. Forster 3/4

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
Local farm-fresh milk has undergone a resurgence in recent years as consumers seek to reduce their food miles and carbon footprint. Those looking to ditch their cartons should have no problem doing so in the English county of Dorset where a herd of Friesian cows graze on lush pastures, supplying the pasteurized milk sold directly from local vending machines. If it’s your first visit, the staff will sell you a reusable glass bottle to take your milk home. Similar outlets can be found in other countries in Europe.
✱ Read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).
With This Ring by Carla Kelly 3/4
"knowing enough about him now to wish him well with his pigs and cows..." page 198

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
Alongside its well-stocked bookshelves, the Monkey’s Paw rare bookstore in Toronto has a curious vending machine called the Biblio-Mat. You can buy tokens for it from the cashier for $3 . The machine is very old school, so you’ll experience plenty of whirring and clunking before the ring of an old telephone bell signals that your book is on its way. But don’t expect to choose your selection - the books are randomly dispensed to add an element of mystery and suspense to your purchase.
✱ Read a book featuring a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
The Wolf Age: The Vikings, the Anglo-Saxons and the Battle for the North Sea Empire by Tore Skeie 3/4
332 pages

5. Germany: LEGOs
When LEGO vending machines were first installed in the Munich and Frankfurt railway stations, German parents breathed a sigh of relief, as their children traveling in tow would no longer be bored on a long journey. Since then, the rollout has spread across the Atlantic, and travelers have reported seeing LEGO machines in US airports such as Las Vegas and Orlando. If you like the idea but don’t plan to travel anytime soon, you could always build your own vending machine out of the iconic toy bricks instead.
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel by Emmuska Orczy 3/15

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
There’s nothing uncommon about grabbing juice from a vending machine, but in Taiwan and other parts of Asia, they go one step further. Pop in your money and a vending machine will drill a hole in a fresh coconut. All you have to do is pick up a straw and enjoy the healthy and hydrating drink. If you prefer the taste of oranges, there are machines that will squeeze enough oranges to fill the cup you’ve selected; simply pop on a lid and you’re good to go.
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
Metamorphoses by Ovid 3/13

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
Vending machines that dispense real gold bars and coins were first seen in Abu Dhabi in 2010. While that gold ATM is no longer operable, a new one was installed in Prague in 2021. Located side-by-side with more conventional ATMs, the machine is outside the Nový Smíchov shopping mall in the capital of the Czech Republic. In exchange for your hard-earned euros or Czech crowns, the vending machine will supply gold bars in three different sizes.
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD
Mojave Crossing by Louis L'Amour 3/12
Dorinda

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
Although it’s no longer operable, this vending machine deserves an honorable mention. There was a time when you could serve yourself a tub of mashed potatoes directly from vending machines found in Singapore’s 7-Eleven stores. These machines once dispensed a generous serving of the popular comfort food along with a dollop of gravy. They have unfortunately been withdrawn from service, so if you crave mashed potatoes in Singapore now, you must buy the ingredients to make your own.
✱ Read a book you were "craving" to read.
The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart by Nancy Campbell Allen 3/2
I bought it on impulse as I was craving a fun historical story.

When a Scot Ties the Knot (Castles Ever After, #3) by Tessa Dare Aspects of the Novel by E.M. Forster With This Ring (Signet Regency Romance) by Carla Kelly The Wolf Age The Vikings, the Anglo-Saxons and the Battle for the North Sea Empire by Tore Skeie The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel by Emmuska Orczy Metamorphoses by Ovid Mojave Crossing by Louis l'Amour The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart (Matchmakers, #1) by Nancy Campbell Allen

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.

S Salazar Crash Landing by Janice Kay Johnson 4/10
I Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri 3/22
N Nancy Mystery of the Tolling Bell by Carolyn Keene 3/26
G Green The Adventures of Robin Hood by Roger Lancelyn Green
A Apollonius The Voyage of Argo by Apollonius of Rhodes 3/21
P The Panther Mystery by Gertrude Chandler Warner 3/23
O Orwig The Mad, the Bad, and the Dangerous by Sara Orwig 3/16
R Dressed to Kilt by Hannah Reed 4/10
E Enter Ghost by Isabella Hammad 3/20

Crash Landing by Janice Kay Johnson Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri Mystery of the Tolling Bell (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories, #23) by Carolyn Keene The Adventures of Robin Hood by Roger Lancelyn Green The Voyage of Argo by Apollonius of Rhodes The Panther Mystery (The Boxcar Children, #66) by Gertrude Chandler Warner The Mad, the Bad, and the Dangerous by Sara Orwig Dressed to Kilt (Scottish Highlands, #3) by Hannah Reed Enter Ghost by Isabella Hammad


message 38: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Way to go Teri!!


message 39: by Teri-K (new)

Teri-K | 1247 comments Jan wrote: "Way to go Teri!!"

Thanks, Jan!


message 40: by Meg, Contributor (new)

Meg (makeli2) | 950 comments All done!!

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage => "Marjorie took a sip of brandy and noticed Horace and Edna..." kindle pg 169
Murder at the Opera House (A Lady Marjorie Snellthorpe Mystery Book 1) by Dawn Brookes Murder at the Opera House, Dawn Brookes 04/12

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR
Urn Burial (Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries #8) by Kerry Greenwood Urn Burial, Kerry Greenwood 03/02

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe ==> France
A Murder in Paris (A Year in Europe, #1) by Blake Pierce A Murder in Paris, Blake Pierce 03/24

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover
One Book in the Grave (Bibliophile Mystery, #5) by Kate Carlisle One Book in the Grave, Kate Carlisle 03/04

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager ==> Betty and her fellow Girl Scouts
Map Skills Murder (Merry Wrath Mysteries, #7) by Leslie Langtry Map Skills Murder, Leslie Langtry 03/08

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
The Cove (FBI Thriller, #1) by Catherine Coulter The Cove, Catherine Coulter 03/21

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD ==> Lily
For the Love of Friends by Sara Goodman Confino For the Love of Friends, Sara Goodman Confino 03/24

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 AND a book you consider "comfort food"
The Double Comfort Safari Club (No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency, #11) by Alexander McCall Smith The Double Comfort Safari Club, Alexander McCall Smith 03/01

Optional Spell Out:
G - Eva Gates - Deadly Ever After 04/15
E - Elizabeth Edmondson - A Matter of Loyalty 03/16
R - Kristi Rose - One Hit Wonder 04/13
M - Miranda James -File M for Murder 04/11
A - Annelise Ryan - Dead in the Water 03/20
N - Toby Neal - Coconut Wireless 03/20
Y - Ovidia Yu - The Betel Nut Tree Mystery 04/10


message 41: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Way to go Meg!


message 42: by Meg, Contributor (new)

Meg (makeli2) | 950 comments Thanks! 😊


message 43: by Patrizia, Contributor (last edited Apr 24, 2024 02:12AM) (new)

Patrizia | 1346 comments Finished!

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book with a "mature" story line (tell us why it would be classified as mature) or read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).
"Weber had ordened his standard Coors, while Parks had a Screwdriver. [...] Weber tilted the mouth of his bottle toward Parks, then drank" (18% kindle)- Big Lake by Nick Russell 16 March; 4 1/2☆
Big Lake (Big Lake #1) by Nick Russell

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The) or read a book where music is important to the plot (tell us how).
An Unforgiving Place by Claire Kells 29 March; 5☆
An Unforgiving Place (National Parks Mystery #2) by Claire Kells

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where) or read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).
Ireland- Murder at an Irish Castle by Ellie Brannigan 14 March; 4 1/2☆
Murder at an Irish Castle by Ellie Brannigan

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book featuring a book(s) on the cover (post cover) or read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
325 pages- The Burning Pages by Paige Shelton 27 March; 5☆
The Burning Pages (Scottish Bookshop Mystery, #7) by Paige Shelton

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (tell us who) or read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
A Sprinkling of Murder by Daryl Wood Gerber 6 March; 4 1/2☆
A Sprinkling of Murder (A Fairy Garden Mystery, #1) by Daryl Wood Gerber

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where) or read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
Murder on an Irish Farm by Carlene O'Connor 4 April; 4 1/2☆
Murder on an Irish Farm (Irish Village Mystery, #8) by Carlene O'Connor

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD or read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).
Gustavo- Killer Past by Ali Olson 10 March; 4 1/2☆
Killer Past by Ali Olson

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11 or read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read.
series book #7- Breakup by Dana Stabenow 23 March; 4 1/2☆
Breakup (A Kate Shugak Investigation Book 7) by Dana Stabenow

Optional Spell Out:
Gray (author's last name)
Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray 15 April; 4☆
Emily (MC's name)
Tears of Pearl by Tasha Alexander 4 March; 4 1/2☆
Robbie (MC's name)
Biscuits and Slashed Browns by Maddie Day 8 March; 4 1/2☆
Murder (title)
Murder at Kingscote by Alyssa Maxwell 10 April; 5☆
Abby (MC's name) and Alexis (author's name)
Death by the Finish Line by Alexis Morgan 20 March; 5☆
Nicholas (author's name)
A Deadly Walk in Devon by Nicholas George 23 April; 4☆
Yosemite (title)
Yosemite Firestorm by Tanya Stowe 2 March; 4 1/2☆

Amish Fugitive by Shelley Shepard Gray ; Tears of Pearl (A Lady Emily Mystery) by Tasha Alexander ; Biscuits and Slashed Browns (Country Store Mysteries, #4) by Maddie Day ; Murder at Kingscote (Gilded Newport Mysteries, #8) by Alyssa Maxwell ; Death by the Finish Line (Abby McCree Mystery, #5) by Alexis Morgan ; A Deadly Walk in Devon (A Walk Through England Mystery, #1) by Nicholas George ; Yosemite Firestorm (Love Inspired Suspense) by Tanya Stowe


message 44: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Great challenge work Patrizia!


message 45: by Vanessa (last edited Dec 23, 2024 12:58PM) (new)

Vanessa (nesshawk) | 87 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
May 1, 2024 to Completion


✔️ 1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).
She Started It by Sian Gilbert 6/1/24
Whole lot of drinking at this "hen party"!

✔️ 2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR.
Upright Women Wanted by Sarah Gailey 6/3/24

✔️ 3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book with the word COW found in the text (share text).
A Day Like This by Kelley McNeil 8/3/24
Pg 213 - "A rocking cow. Not a rocking horse, but a rocking cow"

✔️ 4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
Sleight of Paw by Sofie Kelly 7/4/24
312 pages

✔️ 5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
Several People Are Typing by Calvin Kasulke 6/2/24
SeveraL PEOple Are TypinG

✔️ 6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (tell us where).
The Way of the Househusband, Vol. 1 by Kousuke Oono 6/2/24
Japan

✔️ 7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD.
A Familiar Stranger by A.R. Torre 6/21/24
Lillian

✔️ 8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book you were "craving" to read.
Fierce Kingdom by Gin Phillips 7/2/24

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
J - Jason Reynolds - Long Way Down 9/1/24
A - Ai Jiang - Linghun 6/9/24
P - Max Porter - Grief is the Thing with Feathers 7/4/24
A - Megan Abbott - Give Me Your Hand 7/16/24
N - NYPD Red 2 by James Patterson 10/30/24


message 46: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Welcome to the challenge Vanessa!


message 47: by Frankie (new)

Frankie Johnson | 534 comments Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion

14/14 Completed. Finished

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage (share text).
Pg.156"...chugging the beer, then tossing it into the recycling."
Alaric-Jessica Gadziala 3/24/24

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The)
Take Me Back-Rosalind James 3/28/24

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (tell us where)
(London)
Until Hanna-Aurora Rose Reynolds 3/14/24

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count (share page count).
(393)
Dirty Mother-Lani Lynn Vale 3/03/24

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with a title that includes all the letters in LEGO (any order).
Delilah Green Doesn't Care-Ashley Herring Blake 3/08/24

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book by an author whose initials can be found in COCONUT.
Catherine Cowles-Ashes of You 4/03/24

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book originally published in 2010 or 2021 (share publication date).
(03/18/21)
Frayed-Laura Pavlov 3/02/24

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a series book #7 or #11
(Detective Casey White #11)
Her Last Hour-B.R. Spangler 3/14/24

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
Taiwan
09.T:Till Death Do Us Part-Willow Rose 3/01/24
10.A:Affliction-River Savage 3/09/24
11.I:Irresistible-Willow Aster 3/21/24
12.W:The Wife You Know-Chad Zunker 4/22/24
13.A:And I Love Her-Marie Force 3/03/24
14.N:Nothing But It All-Adriana Locke 3/03/24


message 48: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Terrific job Frankie!


message 49: by Jan, Moderator (new)

Jan | 20734 comments Finally finished my spell-out to complete this!

Travel Trivia: Unusual Global Vending Machines
March 1, 2024 to Completion
Task 8/8
Spell 6/6

1. Japan: Beer
✱ Read a book where the MC drinks an alcoholic beverage ("I sipped the wine. It was as dark as mavrodaphne and tasted of cherries".). My Brother Michael | Mary Stewart 5/15/24****
My Brother Michael by Mary Stewart

2. Australia: Guitar Strings
✱ Read a book with a title that starts with a letter in GUITAR (ignore A, An or The). The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo | Stieg Larsson 5/29/24****
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium, #1) by Stieg Larsson

3. England: Farm-Fresh Milk
✱ Read a book set in Europe (Kingsmarkham, England): From Doon With Death | Ruth Rendell 3/11/24***
From Doon With Death (Inspector Wexford, #1) by Ruth Rendell

4. Canada: Secondhand Books
✱ Read a book with 3 in the total page count (273 Pages). A Dark and Stormy Murder | Julia Buckley 5/8/23***
A Dark and Stormy Murder (A Writer's Apprentice Mystery, #1) by Julia Buckley

5. Germany: LEGOs
✱ Read a book with an important character that is a child or teenager (David): Madam, Will You Talk? | Mary Stewart 4/16/24****
Madam, Will You Talk? by Mary Stewart

6. Taiwan: Fresh Coconut Juice
✱ Read a book set in Asia (Singapore): Crazy Rich Asians | Kevin Kwan 3/6/24***
Crazy Rich Asians (Crazy Rich Asians, #1) by Kevin Kwan

7. Czech Republic: Gold Bars
✱ Read a book with an MC whose first name starts with a letter in GOLD (Lance): Madam Love, Actually | Rich Amooi3/4/24***
Madam Love, Actually by Rich Amooi

8. Singapore: Mashed Potatoes
✱ Read a book you consider "comfort food" or one you were "craving" to read. Stormy Petrel | Mary Stewart 5/6/24****
Stormy Petrel by Mary Stewart

Optional Spell Out: Choose one country from the challenge to spell out.
T - Two Testaments | Elizabeth Musser 3/13/24**
A - (Author A): The Silent Patient | Alex Michaelides 4/10/24***
I - Imogene from: Love & Saffron | Kim Fay 3/2/24***
W - Waiting Season | Melanie Lageschulte 3/18/24****
A - Ava from: You Don't Want To Know | Lisa Jackson 6/2/24*
N - (Author): Blood River | C.E. Nelson 6/20/24***

Two Testaments (Secrets of the Cross Trilogy #2) by Elizabeth Musser The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides Love & Saffron by Kim Fay Waiting Season (Melinda Foster, #4) by Melanie Lageschulte You Don't Want To Know by Lisa Jackson Blood River (Trask Brothers Mysteries, #2) by C.E. Nelson


message 50: by Jennifer (new)

Jennifer | 303 comments Woohoo! Nice job Jan.


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