Due to overwhelming demand, the US Mint has had to halt sales of its 24-karat gold buffalo coins. Sales of the solid gold coins have skyrocketed this year, as investors look for safe havens for their money. Though gold prices can be quite volatile in terms of dollars, there is no doubt that gold is indeed valuable. Gold won't declare bankruptcy, as so many major companies in so many major investing portfolios have done recently.

So if you want to invest in gold, you now have one less option. What are some other choices?

You can invest in gold futures, which are currently well below their high point earlier this year, but have been rebounding from a recent low point (but given current events, this fact may well be changing. Keep track before making a move).

Tired of the same old Applebee's and Cracker Barrel fare? Well, fortunately, you're living in the 21st century, where choice reigns. We've pulled together some suggestions for places that offer novel dining experiences.

Some countries (yes, you, South Africa) bury their head in the sand when facing the AIDS epidemic, so it was gratifying to see the bold approach taken by Thailand's Population and Community Development Association. They operate several restaurants under the name, Cabbages and Condoms, including one at their romantic Birds & Bees Resort.

The Condoms part, the use of which is promoted for both AIDS prevention and birth control, is reflected in the décor, not the cuisine, thankfully. The walls are covered in gaily-colored condom wrappers, the carpet with condom-promoting cartoons, and condoms, rather than mints, are available at the register. The lounge is called the Vasectomy Bar, which may make it a great place to meet single women.

The fare is mainstream Thai, including generous use of the cabbage, a staple in the country.