Category: Lifestyle

There are those times that will inevitably pop up where you just want to get away from it all and enjoy a nice, relaxing vacation far away from where you’re at currently. That’s easier said than done, though. Assuming that you can get that time away from work (or other obligations you may have), there’s that little caveat of having to pay for your vacation.

Studies have shown that the average cost for a vacation is north of $1,500 for just one week. That’s just for one person, too, so if you’re bringing friends or family with you, be prepared to pay a lot more. So how do we avoid overpaying on a vacation while still getting everything that we want out of the trip? Here are a few rules that you should follow.

1. Know Your Airline

Perhaps the biggest expense that you’ll be paying for on vacation is the air travel. Many people will jump on the cheapest face value flight, but always look at the fine print. Airlines like Spirit or Allegiant may have cheaper ticket prices, but you can get nickeled and dimed very quickly compared to airlines such as Delta or Southwest that won’t be charging you extra for your carry-on. Also, check where your flight is headed to, as larger airports are typically much cheaper.

2. Grocery Stores Are King

Naturally, you’re going to want to sample the finest local cuisine no matter where you’re traveling. That doesn’t mean that you have to eat every meal at a restaurant, though. If you’re staying for an extended period of time, make sure to stock your hotel room with cheaper local groceries so that you can get by on breakfast and perhaps lunch. You don’t have to go to the dollar store, but it will save you quite a bit of money.

3. Enjoy the Sights

They say the best things in life are free, and when it comes to visuals, that’s certainly true. If you find yourself vacationing to a scenic spot, you won’t have to pay hand over fist to get a once in a lifetime experience. It doesn’t cost you to look at some of the world’s most majestic mountains, oceans or rivers, but can cost you a pretty penny to see a band or a museum. Natural beauty is the cheapest beauty.

4. Cash Out Early

The easiest way to pay for anything is with a card these days. This is especially true as companies like MasterCard or Visa are accepted just about anywhere, but international fees can pile up quickly (as well as pesky ATM fees). To save yourself some money, try to get cash out from your home country and have it converted upon arrival at your vacation destination.

5. Skip the Souvenirs

We all want to remember our vacation, and one way of doing that is souvenirs. However, these tend to be extremely overpriced and will likely end up collecting dust as soon as you get home. Instead of little mementos that will be boxed up and in storage within weeks, try to take more pictures and capture those memories. With the way smartphone cameras are these days, you’ll be getting a clear picture of your amazing trip.

Not all of us will take one, but for those that are in the corporate world, there may be a time where you have to go on a business trip. Most of the time, you’ll have to make the trip on your own, which can make things a bit lonely. If the boss has assigned you to travel away from home (and approved for your travel to be paid), things don’t have to be so bad. To make the most of your next business trip, here are some tips that you should follow.

1. Take Advantage of Air Amenities

In most cases, you’ll be traveling to your business destination via airlines. The more you use one airline, the more points you’ll be able to rack up, and we’ll get to the advantages of that in just a bit. When flying for work, it’s going to be best to upgrade some of the amenities that are offered, including wireless internet access. When you’re awaiting your flight or en route to your destination, you can use your computer to get some work done to give you more free time after landing.

2. Don’t Be Confined to the Hotel

See your business trip as a way to explore new areas that you may have never seen before. Many business travelers find themselves staying in their hotel for a majority of the trip, but don’t be afraid to explore. If you need to get some exercise, pack some comfortable clothes and shoes and get walking around the city. You’ll feel like you’re getting a full experience and, who knows, you could open yourself to more business opportunities.

3. End the Week Right

Of course you’ll be doing a lot of work on your business trip, but you can make a vacation out of it, too. If you plan a business trip toward the end of the week, you can give yourself the opportunity to experience the city you’re visiting by staying on Friday and Saturday before heading back on Sunday. You’ll find that it’s a lot less stressful when you can unwind for a couple of days in a new location.

4. Use Your Credit Card

Companies will typically pay for your expenses on a business trip, but it’s best to get paid afterward via reimbursement than upfront. When you use your own credit card for travel, it’s going to be easier to get any potential mess sorted out with your name, but there’s an even bigger advantage. You’ll get all of the rewards such as cash back and travel points when using your own credit card instead of your company reaping the benefits.

5. Room Service Not Needed

When you’re short on time, it will be tempting to order room service in your hotel when you’re feeling hungry or thirsty. If you want to feel like you actually had an experience instead of just shacking up in a hotel and working the entire time, skip out on the room service. Try one of the local restaurants, taking advantage of the hotel’s concierge to find out what suits your cravings the best.

When you think of people going on vacation, you tend to think of families. It’s a natural assumption as there have been countless movies about family vacations. However, it’s estimated that more than a quarter of Americans have traveled for business, and around 20 percent have done so for leisure. If you’re one of these people that has either traveled solo or you plan to go on a trip by yourself, you must keep yourself safe. To do so, here are some valuable tips that can save you a lot of hassle and even save your life.

1. Insure, Insure, Insure

Not everybody is a fan of insurance, and it’s understandable. However, travel insurance is something that’s affordable (especially when compared to the cost of an overall trip) and it doesn’t require a monthly payment for the rest of your life. Travel insurance will cover a lot of things and can potentially get you out of a disastrous situation. Travel insurance can cover flights that get canceled, luggage that gets lost or damaged, and even medical help if you find yourself out of the country. You probably won’t need it, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

2. Stay Charged

Your cell phone isn’t just something that takes pictures and allows you to post on social media, but it can also save your life. Make sure that your phone is properly charged at all times (even if it means using a portable charger). You can get real time alerts for potentially dangerous situations happening in the area, traffic and more to keep you safe. Of course, you’ll also be able to make calls in case you need emergency assistance.

3. Always Let Your Plans Be Known

Before you embark on any vacation by yourself, let all of your loved ones know what you’re going to be doing. Don’t let it be vague, either. Your emergency contacts should know your flight number, the estimated time of arrival and an hourly itinerary during the duration of your trip. Obviously you don’t want to expect the worst, but it’s always best to plan ahead. Checking in with those you trust most multiple times per day is also a big help.

4. Limit Night Travel

Whether you’re at home or on the road, the majority of crimes will happen at night. More violent crimes especially can happen at night, so try to stick to traveling during the day unless it’s absolutely necessary. Data across major cities have shown that more than half of burglaries, assault, robberies and more happen during the nighttime hours.

5. Keep Your Valuables Separate

In the tragic event that you are mugged or robbed, you could possibly lose everything and have to replace it, and that can take months or years. There’s a way that you can minimize the damage done if this happens in unfamiliar territory, and that’s by not keeping all of your valuables with you at once. You should always keep your phone with you, but if you don’t plan on spending money, you can leave the wallet or identification in the hotel room. If you keep these items in a safe, that’s an added bonus.

Most of us want to go on a vacation that lasts for days, weeks and maybe even months. However, not all of us have the time to make that happen. Instead, we have to opt for just a quick trip that could just be one night only. If you want to make a couple hour drive (or have to travel for business), there are some accessories you should take along with you for that one night stay, and we have some of the most important ones for you.

1. Power Bank

Since we live in an era where we rely so much on technology, it’s vital to make sure that your electronics are charged whenever possible. Not only will it allow you to get in touch with anyone that you want or need, but it will come in handy for traveling. You can use your phone for up to the foot instructions, real time traffic and reviews for local restaurants. A power bank will make sure that your cell phone and other electronics are all set to go for the duration of your trip.

2. Travel Wallet

It doesn’t matter how long you’re going to be gone, having a travel wallet is a huge help. These types of wallets will be able to hold all of your cards, identification, cell phone and much more. It will be easier to keep track of this large wallet than carrying everything in separate compartments. Just make sure that you have it on you at all times, though, because losing a travel wallet (or having it stolen) can be a devastating venture.

3. Good Set of Headphones

Those of us that use headphones will never stop talking about how handy they are at all times. Even on a quick overnight trip, headphones will be more useful than you might think. Let’s say that your hotel is in an area that’s a bit noisier than you thought, or your one-day trip happens to include a short flight. You can listen to music, watch television at your own volume or simply block out the noise that’s around you.

4. Fresh Pillow

The nicer the hotel that you’re staying in, the better the pillows are more likely to be. However, these pillows might not be the right type of firmness for your desire. Also, even the nicest hotels might let a couple of things slip in terms of cleanliness. If you bring your own fresh pillow, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting. It might just be one night of sleep, but it will make your return trip the next day that much easier when you’re well rested.

5. Travel Bags

Compact bags in which you can put all your belongings in are handy for short trips. You can keep a small bag for toiletries and another for your clothes. Finally, you can keep your shoes in a separate travel bag. If you plan on using a hotel gym or getting some exercise while also planning to go out for dinner. These bags are fairly cheap, too, and you can use them over and over.

There are a lot of details that go into planning a vacation. Most of us think about the bigger picture like the flight or the hotel, but there are some things that you might not think about that can help you. If you’re looking for some unconventional advice on how to make your trip fun while also staying fresh, we’ve got good news for you. Here are some travel hacks that will set your trip apart from any one that you’ve had before.

1. Use Shoe Bags

When you’re traveling, you don’t want just one pair of shoes for everything. Can you imagine going to a fancy dinner while wearing your kickaround Nikes, or playing tennis in a pair of loafers? Try to bring shoes for every occasion that you have planned for your vacation. The best way to do this is by taking advantage of shoe bags. Not only will it keep your clothes clean, but you won’t get the smell of your gym shoes mixed up with your high end shoes.

2. And Bag Those Toiletries

In addition to having special bags for your shoes, it also helps to keep one for your toiletries. Of course, hotels will provide toiletries for you, but it’s not always going to be high quality, and might not even be enough for your trip. Because of this, get a nice toiletry bag where you can keep shampoo, toothpaste and more. These toiletry bags also help to avoid mishaps where your bottles might leak and mix toothpaste and shampoo, which is a minor inconvenience, but a messy one to take care of.

3. Apps That Map

Take advantage of all that your cell phone has to offer even before you travel. There are plenty of cell phone apps available that are able to help make your trip much easier and enjoyable. Use these apps to help navigate your way through unknown territory, get reviews of the best local businesses and more. Even apps like Nextdoor will let you know exactly what is going on in the neighborhood in real time.

4. Rent a House, Not a Room

There was a time when our only options when staying overnight during vacation were hotels and hostels. With the advent of house rentals that you can do through your cell phone or computer, though, your options are nearly endless. Services such as Airbnb and Vrbo offer houses that will provide all the amenities that you need and much more room than any hotel could provide. Not only that, but the prices are often comparable and even cheaper than most hotels.

5. Bring the Wipes

Let’s get back to the part about how we’re staying fresh on our vacations. People tend to get sick when they travel, and hotels and airlines are a big part of that. The best way to prevent getting sick on your trip is to make sure that everything is sanitized. Don’t be afraid to wipe down your seat, counters in the hotel room and more. Sure, people might look at you a bit weird at first, but when you’re not coughing at home following the trip, you’ll get the last laugh.

Few places in the world can rival Athens in history and culture. As the birthplace of democracy and home to some of the most iconic architecture in the world, Athens is a city that must be experienced at least once in a lifetime. But beyond its famous landmarks, Athens is also home to some lesser-known attractions that are well worth exploring. Here are five of Athens’s most unique and magical places to see.

1:  The Temple of Poseidon

Perched atop a cliff on the outskirts of Athens, the Temple of Poseidon offers breathtaking views of the Saronic Gulf. Dedicated to the god of the sea, this impressive marble temple was built in the 5th century BC and is one of the best-preserved examples of Classical Greek architecture. Visitors can still see the remnants of the temple’s original 6th-century statue of Poseidon, as well as an outdoor amphitheater where plays and concerts are often held.

2: The Academy of Athens

Founded by Plato in 387 BC, the Academy of Athens is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious learning institutions. The academy’s original purpose was to promote the study of philosophy, but it later became a center for the arts and sciences. Today, the academy is housed in a beautiful neo-classical building with a stunning colonnaded courtyard. Visitors can take a guided tour of the premises, which includes a visit to the academy’s impressive library.

3: The Lycabettus Hill

At 277 meters, Lycabettus Hill is the highest point in Athens and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Visitors can either hike or take a funicular railway to the top of the hill, where they will find a 19th-century chapel and a cafe. On clear days, it is possible to see the Aegean Sea from the summit.

4: The Mount Lycavitos

Mount Lycavitos is the highest point within Athens city limits for those looking for a more challenging hike. The hike to the top is fairly strenuous, but the views of the city are more than worth the effort. Visitors will also find a small chapel and a cafe at the summit.

5: The National Garden

Located in the heart of Athens, the National Garden is a green oasis perfect for a stroll. Originally designed as a royal garden for the Palace of Athens, the National Garden is now open to the public and features a wide variety of plant life, including cypress trees, palm trees, and bamboo. The garden also has a small zoo, a playground, and a café.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply taking in the beauty of Athens, these five unique attractions are sure to please. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Athens today!

London is one of the most amazing cities in the world. There’s something for everyone in this vibrant city, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems. If you’re looking for a unique experience, here are five attractions you won’t want to miss.

1:  The Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are a must-see for history buffs. This underground complex was the headquarters of the British government during World War II. Visitors can explore the rooms where Winston Churchill and his team planned their strategies, see artifacts from the war, and learn about the man himself.

2: The Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. This historic castle has been a royal palace, a prison, and a place of execution. Today, it’s home to the Crown Jewels and the Yeoman Warders, also known as “Beefeaters.” Visitors can explore the tower, see the Crown Jewels, and learn about the tower’s dark history.

3: Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can take a tour of the State Rooms, which are used for official occasions, and see the famous changing of the guard. You might even catch a glimpse of the queen if you’re lucky.

4: Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest parks. It’s home to many famous landmarks, including Serpentine Lake and Speakers’ Corner. Visitors can go for a stroll, picnic, or even go boating on the lake. The park is transformed into a magical wonderland with an ice rink and Christmas markets in the winter.

5: The London Eye

The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel with 32 capsules that offer panoramic views of the city. It’s one of the best ways to see London’s skyline; on a clear day, you can even see for miles. Visitors can ride in a capsule, enjoy the views, and learn about the city from the interactive screens inside.

These are just a few of London’s many unique attractions, so whether you’re interested.

When most people think of Scotland, they think of kilts, bagpipes, and whisky. But there is so much more to this fascinating country than its traditional culture. Scotland is a land of stunning natural beauty, from the majestic Highlands in the north to the rolling hills of the Borders region in the south. And while Edinburgh may be its capital, Glasgow is where you’ll find its heart and soul.

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, here are five things you should not do:

Don’t miss out on visiting the Highlands

The Highlands is one of the most scenic regions in Scotland and home to some of its most popular attractions, such as Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Royal Deeside. While you can certainly explore the Highlands on your own, several guided tours will take you to all of the best sights.

Suppose you’re planning a trip to Scotland, including a visit to the Highlands. This is one of the country’s most scenic regions, and you don’t want to miss out!

Don’t forget to pack your walking shoes

No matter where you go in Scotland, you’re bound to find some great walking trails. Whether you want to hike up a mountain or just stroll through a picturesque village, make sure you bring comfortable shoes so you can enjoy your time outdoors.

Your packing shoes should be one of the first things on your packing list! Scotland is full of beautiful hiking trails that you will want to explore.

Don’t miss out on trying haggis

Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs. While it may not sound appetizing, it’s delicious and something you should try while in Scotland. You can find haggis on the menu at most Scottish restaurants, and it is worth a try!

Don’t forget to pack a raincoat

Scotland is famous for its wet weather, so it’s always a good idea to pack a raincoat (or two). Umbrellas are also a good idea, as they can be handy for shielding you from the rain or the sun.

Pack a raincoat even if it doesn’t look like it will rain! You never know when you might need it in Scotland.

Don’t drink too much whisky

Whisky is Scotland’s national drink, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of drinking too much while in the country. While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a wee dram or two, be sure to pace yourself so you can enjoy the rest of your trip.

There are many distilleries located throughout the country. While it’s undoubtedly fun to sample a few different kinds, drink responsibly – you don’t want to end up with a Scottish hangover!

Wrapping Up

So there you have it – five things you should not do when visiting Scotland. Following this advice will make you have an enjoyable and memorable trip. Check out our other culture guides for more information on the best things to see and do in Scotland and worldwide.

Norway is a stunning country with plenty to offer tourists, from the majestic mountains and picturesque fjords to the vibrant cities and charming villages. But as with any country, certain customs and etiquette should be followed to make the most of your trip. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of 5 things you shouldn’t do when visiting Norway.

Don’t Litter

Littering is a big no-no in Norway, and visitors should take care to dispose of their rubbish correctly. There are plenty of bins around, so there’s no excuse. Not only is it considered rude to litter, but you could also be fined if caught.

The fine for littering in Norway is currently 2000 NOK (around £180 / $230), although this can vary depending on the municipality.

Don’t Smoke in Public

Smoking is banned in all indoor public spaces in Norway, including bars and restaurants. There are also some outdoor areas where smoking is not permitted, such as playgrounds and sports facilities.

If you smoke, dispose of your cigarette butt responsibly to avoid a fine.

Don’t Forget to Take Your Shoes Off

When entering someone’s home in Norway, it is customary to take your shoes off at the door, which helps keep the house clean and tidy.

If you’re visiting a public sauna, you’ll also need to take your shoes off and leave them outside.

Don’t Feed the Birds

While feeding the birds in Norway’s many parks and green spaces may be tempting, it’s not allowed. The reason is that the birds can become reliant on human food and lose their natural fear of humans, making them a nuisance.

Don’t Touch the Whales

Norway is one of the best places in the world to see whales, and many tour operators offer boat trips to spot these majestic creatures.

While it may be tempting to touch or even swim with the whales, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and should be treated with respect. It’s also illegal to approach them within 300 meters.

Wrapping Up

Like every other country, Norway has customs and etiquette that visitors should keep in mind. The culture is not hard to adjust to, and following these simple rules will help you make the most of your trip. Remember not to litter, smoke in public, take your shoes off indoors, feed the birds, or touch the whales!

When most people think of Cairo, they think of ancient pyramids, bustling markets, and a city that never sleeps. But there is more to this fantastic city than meets the eye. Here are five unique attractions in Cairo that you won’t miss.

1:  The Giza Pyramids

The Giza pyramids are some of the most iconic structures in the world. But did you know that there are three different pyramids in Cairo? The Great Pyramid of Giza, the pyramid of Khafre, and the pyramid of Menkaure are all worth a visit. And don’t forget to check out the Sphinx while you’re there!

2: Cairo Tower

For breathtaking views of the city, head to the Cairo Tower. This iconic structure was built in 1961 and stood 187 meters tall. You can take the elevator to the top for panoramic views of Cairo. Just be sure to bring your camera!

3: Khan El-Khalili Market

A trip to Cairo isn’t complete without a stop at the Khan El-Khalili market.. This historic market dates back to the 14th century and is one of the largest souks in the world. You’ll find everything from spices to souvenirs at this bustling market.

4: The Egyptian Museum

For a dose of history, visit the Egyptian Museum. This museum houses over 120,000 artifacts, making it one of the world’s largest collections of Egyptian antiquities. From mummies to Tutankhamun’s treasures, there is something for everyone at this must-see museum.

5: Al-Azhar Park

For a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Al-Azhar Park. This park is one of the largest in Cairo and features gardens, fountains, and views of the city skyline. You can also visit the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, located within the park.

Wrapping Up

Whether interested in history, culture, or just taking in the sights, Cairo has something for everyone. So don’t miss out on these five unique attractions during your next visit to this fantastic city!