Category Archives: Travel Planning

Travel Planning

The Points You Should Include In Your Road Trip Planning

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Going on a road trip can be an exciting, fun and educational experience. it’s a great way to pack on a well-needed adventure and the memories you make will stay with you for a lifetime. To make a good road trip, you have to be well prepared and ready for any bumps that may come along the way. There are some things to pack, and steps to take to help ensure your trip will be an adventure of a lifetime and not a nightmare on wheels.

Car Safety Measures

The next key to a successful road trip is car safety. There are things a driver can do to make sure the trip goes smoothly. Making sure the tank is full is a good start to a trip. Keep a spare gas tank in your car because you never know what can happen when traveling. The air pressure in tires is also important to keep track of. If there is an air tire pressure reader on your dashboard, keep an eye on it. it will tell you the pounds per square inch (PSI) of each tire, and you want to make sure each tire is around 32 to 35 PSI. The tires are ultimate what moves the car, and making sure they are a proper tension helps a lot in safety for getting from A to B. Doing an overall car check before you leave, and throughout your trip is very important. Make sure turn signals, and headlights are all working. Test out the windshield wipers, and see if they are in need of wiper fluid. Pop the hood and check to make sure you have a sufficient amount on oil. Always use proper gloves and or a towel when touching parts under the hood. It’s best to wait for the car to cool down. Stock up on useful tools for your ride just in case there is an emergency; spare tire, road maps, snow scraper, first aid kit, water bottles, blankets, and road flares.

Right Coverage Plan

Before you hit the open road the first step you will want to take is to make sure your car is properly insured. Even if you are a perfect driver, it doesn’t mean others on the road are. When your car has the coverage of a comprehensive car insurance, it can ensure you that if there is an accident, big or small; your car will have the needed protection, and you won’t be shelling out hundreds or thousands just to keep on moving. Nothing can make a trip go more wrong than going into debt, from car repairs, (both yours and the other car) before you even cross the state border. Insurance is also required by law, thus making the need for car insurance even greater. Do your research and make sure you’re getting the best protection for your vehicle. Some insurances also have roadside protection included. A tow truck will come to your service if your car breaks down, gets a flat tire, or you run out of gas in the middle of nowhere.

Packing Essentials

Now, for the fun part, or for some, the dreaded part; packing for your trip. Depending on where you’re driving and, or headed, you want to make sure you pack all the adequate materials. Using tools to quickly determine distances can be helpful. If you’re travelling through warm climates it’s best to make sure you pack sunscreen and hats to block the sun. It’s most ideal to pack shorts and short sleeve shirts for a hot, summer trip, so you can keep cool. It’s wise to still pack a light jacket, in case nights are cooler, or a passenger in the car like to blast the A.C. If your heading somewhere cold, it’s best to pack lots of warm clothes, as well as winter outdoor gear; coats, gloves, hats and winter boots. Remember whatever the climate, the sun is still shining, so it’s still wise to pack sunscreen. After you have all of your favourite outfits packed, you’ll need the proper toiletries. Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, face lotion, makeup and whatever you use for a normal morning and evening bathroom routine, can be put into a smaller travel size bag. Using a toiletry bag will help for the organization and less stress. You don’t want to rummage through your entire suitcase just to find your favourite perfume to cologne. If you will be travelling with a baby or kid, then making sure their bags are well properly packed will help ensure a smoother, more relaxed trip. An ample amount of diapers are necessary to maintain a pleasant odour throughout the trip. It’s all in the preparation when it comes to a good road trip. The same goes with if you’re travelling with a furry friend. make sure they have their own bag packed with food, treats, water and food bowls, and toys.

The Fun Elements

The last tip for a successful road trip is having fun. The journey is the destination after all. So make sure you have some good proper road trip music available. It’s also a good idea to keep some good snacks in the car, as a car full of “hangry” passengers could result in nasty fights and attitudes. Bring some good reading material such as books and magazines for entertainment purposes. Brainstorm some fun road trip games, such as “the singing game”: one passenger starts with a lyric to a song, then the next passenger connects the lyric with another lyric to a different song. Whoever can’t continue to flow, losses. If you’re travelling with kids, there are a ton of games to play with kids. The classic game where one passenger picks a colour and the other passenger has to guess what they are looking at outside. Other games for kids to play include, colouring books, books, dolls, play dough and more. Get creative with the activities during a road trip, and don’t forget to take in all the new views and fresh air.

Sport and Adventure, Travel Planning

7 Car Safety Measures to Take Before Your Dream Roadtrip with Friends

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A road trip is an opportunity to leave your worries behind. Ditch your responsibilities for the weekend to hang out with your friends. You have a chance to bond with friends, enjoy vivid sights, and explore the open road. There’s something special about a road trip with the ones you love.

However, the perfect road trip takes planning and preparation. It doesn’t matter if your trip is for a few hours or cross-country; safety comes first. Preparation should also be inclusive of your guests.

The following guide will give you the top 7 safety tips to help you enjoy a dream road trip with your friends.

  1. Visit The Mechanic

If you’re driving your personal vehicle on your road trip, visiting the mechanic is important. You want to have a safe vehicle that will get you on the road and back. Your car has several operating components, and a mechanic can tell you in advance if your car is ready for a safe road trip. Few of the major points include checking the car mileage, comfort of the family members, proper boot space for the things to carry, and tyre inspection for its proper alignment and intensity to bear the rough roads. If not, ask the mechanic to suggest a place from where you can buy the new tyres. Or else you can also consider buying the tyres online after a brief research on type, prices and availability. A mechanic is also necessary for car or RV rentals.

What To Expect From The Mechanic

– a tune-up (i.e. oil change, air filter)

– top off all your fluids

– inspect your brakes

– windshield wipers

  1. Know Your Road Trip Guests

Travelling with your friends can be a lot of fun, but it can also have moments when it can get stressful. For example, each of you will have different personalities, and being together constantly can bring out annoying habits, you didn’t know your friends had. Travel experts agree that no matter the circumstances, a road trip can bring you and your friends closer together. Choose your road companions wisely. Let your friends give up ideas for a good road trip while you’re still in the planning stages. Choose a destination that will please everyone.

  1. First-Aid Kit

Your travellers first-aid kit will be an essential part of your road trip. Unfortunately, accidents do happen while you’re out travelling. A reliable road-trip should have all of the things you need to handle minor injuries or the essentials to apply first-aid until you can get your friend to the hospital for serious injuries.

What To Include In Your Roadtrip First-Aid Kit

– first-aid book (latest version)

– gauze

– adhesive tape

– antiseptic

– bandages

– repellent

– antihistamine cream

– important extras for your friends

  1. Emergency Funds

You should always create a budget for your road trip. However, emergency funds can help you with vehicle emergencies, cash shortages, gas, or surprise expenses. Finances can be a sensitive subject and should be discussed before your trip. Decide if you’ll manage your emergency funds or if everyone will have their own funds. Find out what the others may or may not be able to afford. Everyone will have a unique financial situation that should be considered according to your plans for a trip.

  1. Know Your Destination

You should always be realistic about your travelling destination. A map is important to have on every road trip. Never rely solely on a GPS system because they could exclude unforeseen road closures. A navigation system should be your secondary locator device. Furthermore, you should know how to read a map properly to get you to and from your destination. Choose a destination that also provides a safe location. A map can also help you find other great locations to explore on your trip.

  1. Checklist

You should have a checklist that includes all of your planned activities. Go over your planned checklist ahead of time with your friends. Do your best to stick to your list during the duration of your trip. If you make changes, it should be done before your trip departure. However, if there are changes made to the checklist after you’ve begun your trip, everyone should be aware of your changes. You can plan ahead for rest stops, bathroom breaks, and where you’re going to eat. 

  1. Safety Plan

Things will happen on your road trip but a safety plan can help. For instance, include a meeting place in case someone on your trip gets lost. In fact, in case of any type of road emergency, you should have a plan. Your safety plan should also include: what to do in case of danger. Nobody wants to think about danger on your trip but a safety plan can help everyone keep a mutual objective in case of eminent danger. Danger on your road trip could include an animal attack, criminal activity, or problems with law enforcement. Tell a friend or family member that’s not included in your road trip about your travelling plans.

Your dream road trip is impossible with the proper planning. Enjoy fun that will bring you and your friends closer together. According to the US Highway transportation reports; new millennials are travelling more than their parents, and their preferred method of travel is by car. A professional can also help you plan your next road trip with your friends. Travelling can be a rewarding experience with a group of your friends.

Travel Planning

8 Family Get-Together Ideas That Will Involve The Younger Generation

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Family get-together ideas are helpful for families who all like to be together at the same time. There are many ways that a family could come together depending on what they think would be the most fun, and it would be wise for people to remember that they can try one or all of these ideas during the year.

These are ways that you can get the younger kids in the family to have a good time, and you will not leave them out like they might have been left out in the past. This is something that you must be sensitive to, and you must remember that the little kids notice when they are not included.

  1. Drive For A Campout

You can all hop into your comfy cars to take long trips to many different campgrounds that are near your home. However, you must choose a campground that has a playground for the kids, trails that they can walk, and maybe a river or creek that they can hang out by. The little kids in your family will be excited to see the playground and many little things they can do. They can also play near the adults because you are all in the open air. Take along all the camping requirements like the tent if needed, items for the campfire, food, sleeping bags and all the necessary things. You may need a vehicle like Ford suv, which is comfortable and comes with a larger boot space to fit all the camping stuff you carry. 

  1. Family Non-Potlucks

The family non-potluck is an event where the kids all come with you to the event. They will help you cook all the things that you need to make, and they feel included because they have to cook in order to have the meal. You could have some desserts ready for the kids to make, and this helps everyone get involved because you can cook the big things while the kids are doing something simple.

  1. Road Trips

You could take road trips to an attraction that you will like, and you will find that the kids in the family have a good time on these trips. They like to stop for things along the way that are just as much fun as the attraction you have picked, and you could even let the kids pick the places to stop along the way. You might come across some fun places to eat or play, and you will begin to enjoy he road trips more because the kids help keep the pace a little bit slower.

  1. The Park

Going to a local park is a great thing for the family to do because you can bring a picnic and hang out for much of the day. There are some people who would prefer to have a picnic because they believe that the picnic will be something that everyone can enjoy. It is a fairly simple thing for you to manage because you can get everyone to bring some food, find a park where the kids can play on the playground, and pick a park that is very nice to rest in. The kids feel included because they can play and do their own thing without sitting at the small table. 

  1. Football Parties

The kids can all watch the game and eat food with you when you have parties or tailgates for the upcoming football games you want to watch. Bring the whole family together for these events because they all have something that they will enjoy during this party. You can give the football party some flair if you are all rooting for the same team, or you could have a football party where you have many people rooting for opposing teams. That could make the party much more interesting, and you can have some interesting banter. 

  1. Game Night 

You should have a game night that is going to help you play all the games that the kids can participate in. Someone who thinks that they can host a party for just one game needs to be sure that they have enough resources for the kids to play. This is one of the more serious things that you can do with the whole family because everyone shows up knowing what they can do. You all are playing the same game, and you will have a nice time because even the kids can beat the adults at many of these games.

  1. Races

You could all come together over a road race that everyone plans to run. You could all run your own portion of the race, and you could have a cookout or a party after the race. These races are big community events that everyone will show up to, and you might meet friends and family there because you want to all get together before the race to have some fun. These are great events to meet during because the kids can run these races. There are even wheelchair and handicapped versions of these races so that all the members of the family can run.

  1. Holiday Parades

You can go to holiday parades with the family that will allow you to eat and drink and have a good time. Kids love these parades because they like to see the floats and the people. There are many kids who are trying to get into the parades, and that could make the family get-together that much more fun. In fact, your whole family might plan to go to the parade, make a float, and have a party after the parade is over. Going to much larger parades in a big city is also something that kids will love because the spectacle is so big.

Conclusion

The family events that you are looking at planning can keep the kids happy. You do not want to do things that exclude the kids, and you do not want them to feel like they are being left out even though the whole family is together. Be certain that you have picked a road trip, campground, parade, race, or football game that you can enjoy with the kids. You can completely change how they feel about these parties, and they have fun just like the adults.

Africa, Destinations, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

11 Tips for Your First SOLO Adventure in Stanford

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As a traveller, you like to travel to places that are quite happening and have much to offer in terms of adventure, food, activities, ancient building and other things. You enjoy your trip more when you are with family or friends. However, have you ever travelled alone? Travelling alone gives you the freedom to explore new places, meet new people, try new things and most importantly try places that are not on regular travellers’ itinerary.

One such place to visit is Stanford. A small village beyond Hermanus in South Africa is a great place to visit not just as a solo traveller but even with friends and family. The thing that makes Stanford the ideal place for solo adventure is its picturesque setting. Driving 23 kilometers from Hermanus viewing scenic beauty along the way, you will find the village of Stanford along the river Klein.

Abundance of activities, adventure, and serenity!! You can find them all in Stanford. However, if you are traveling solo, you might be a little skeptical about your trip.

Here we have some tips for you when traveling solo to Stanford:

1. Travel with an open mind: When you are traveling solo, the first thing that you have to do is to have an open mind. You are going to a new country, will meet new people, see cultural differences and will have to eat different food. So, keeping an open mind when traveling solo will always help. Stanford is a friendly place where you will find villagers gathering to have friendly chats over coffee. You can be at ease when you are traveling with an open mind.

2. Find a comfortable accommodation: finding a comfortable accommodation in Stanford is not difficult as it offers several options to you as a solo traveler. It depends on your requirements and your budget and Stanford offers them all. You can choose accommodation from bed & breakfast, bed only, camping, guest houses, self-catering, hotels, and lodges. You can also look for families that welcome paying guests.

3. Eat locally: Stanford has some amazing places that offer scrumptious meals prepared by the locals. What is more exciting is that you will find the chefs preparing meals using locally produced, seasonal and environmentally friendly ingredients. You can find a range of food destinations in Stanford including gourmet delights, fine dining, country cuisine and pup grub. Going solo here will help you understand the food habits and culture of the locals. Graze Slow Food Café, Yum Eat Café, Don Gelato Ice Cream Parlor; Coffee Shop & Trattoria are some places that you can visit.

Credit: www.tripadvisor.com

4. Be friendly with the locals: Stanford might be a small village but it has people with big hearts. They are friendly, warm and welcoming. They gather around the village square and frequently stop to have a friendly chat over coffee and freshly baked cake from the nearby eateries. Mixing with the locals will help you get away with your solo travel blues if any.

5. Visit the vineyards: Stanford is also home to some amazing vineyard estates. As a solo traveler, you can taste the local vines straight from the vineyards. This will give you a chance to understand how vine is prepared and meet the locals as well. Sir Robert Stanford Estate, Springfontein Wine Estate, Welgesind and Birkenhead Brewery & Walker Bay Winery are some of the more popular of the wine estates to visit.

Credit: www.pinterest.com

6. Adventure and activities: When you are traveling solo, you have all the time to try something new. If you haven’t had some adventure in the past time, here is your chance to do at Stanford. You can choose from various activities like horse riding, bird watching, boat cruises, Great White Shark cage diving, hiking and picnicking to get the taste of real adventure.

7. Explore the surrounding areas: Stanford and its surrounding areas offer much in terms of activities and relaxation. As a solo traveler, if you are looking to be yourself and need a place to retreat, you can check into one of the resorts or estates that are some distance from Stanford. Phillipskop Mountain Reserve, Mosaic Lagoon Lodge and Fynbos Retreat Self Catering are some places that can give you a tranquil getaway from the usual hustle bustle.

Credit: www.xplorio.com

8. Visit the cheese farmstead: A visit to the local cheese farmstead must be in your itinerary to complete your solo adventure to Stanford. Klein River Cheese Farmstead is a great place to visit to try the freshly prepared cheese platter. You will get a taste of the local cheese and a peek into the ingredients that make it so delicious.

Credit: www.culturecheesemag.com

9. Keep your camera ready: You never know when you might get a great shot. With a picturesque background, mountains and River Klein flowing nearby, Stanford can be a photographer’s delight. You can take hundreds of photos to remind you of the beautiful time that you spent with the amazing people of Stanford.

10. Record and journal everything: As a solo traveller, you must keep a journal to record what all you have seen. Stanford being a quite as well as adventurous destination provides a lot to write. Keeping a journal will help you relive the memories of Stanford, a few years down the line.

11. Learn the local lingo: If you want to have the best of time when travelling solo to Stanford, you can learn the local lingo. Although learning the local language in a short span of time is difficult, you can learn the basic phrases that will help you get along with the locals. This will also help you in understanding their way of life and their culture.

Africa, Asia, Australia, Destinations, Europe, North America, South America, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Most Beautiful Cities From Each Continent

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While philosophers may debate whether beauty is objective or relative one thing they all agree on is that there are cities in the world which through sheer elegance help us transcend our ordinary existence and lift up our spirits to an almost divine plane of existence. These six cities are the best representation of this ideal.
6. Casablanca in Morocco, Africa
Few cities in the world can possibly hope to match the radiant beauty and overwhelming sense of history found in the city of Casablanca. As the main economic and cultural center of the North African Kingdom of Morocco, this cultural icon stands as a testament to the sheer will and resolve of a people to protect the sanctity of their heritage and sense of being. Casablanca first shot to global fame in 1942 when a movie with the same name was released with Humphrey Bogart as the main star of the film. Since then tourist have flocked to the North African city to be filled with a sense of awe as they experience the magical feeling of traveling through history as you walk among architectural marvels like the Hassan II Mosque and the Notre Dame Lourdes cathedral. Spanish and Portuguese influence can be felt throughout the city due to cultural exchange resulting from conquest and trade.
5. Gold Coast in Australia, Oceania
For anyone who loves the beach then Gold Coast feels like paradise on earth with elegant white sands and deep blue oceans. Surfers have the time of their lives riding monster waves and afterward relax watching a beautiful sunset while sipping margaritas. A whole host elegant restaurants adorn the city, several open cafes and pubs can make the place a delight for locals and tourist. Photographers often spend their time at the Currumbin wildlife sanctuary where there are cute koala bears, parrots, and exotic owls.
4. Venice in Italy, Europe
Try as it may modern architecture still struggles to match the beauty of classical architectural design and no city on earth embodies the beauty and values of classicism better than the Renaissance marvel of Venice. Venice is constructed on an archipelago of more than 100 islands through which the iconic canals of Venice pass through. Notable sites include Doge`s Palace, Rialto Bridge and the Hall of The Great Council.
3. Quebec in Canada, North America
Quebec which means where the river narrows is the second largest city in Canada featuring some of the oldest streets and buildings in North America. The Parc de La Chute-Montmorency offers one of the most scenic waterfalls in the world surrounded by the most breathtaking natural environment imaginable. Local artisans make handcrafted ornaments and commodities that come from the ancient wisdom passed on through the generations that have lived in the area for centuries. The Sainte Anne de Beaupre shrine is a divine center where pilgrims came to worship and remain as an iconic testament of the devout faith of the locals.
2. Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, South America
Perhaps one of the most iconic sites in the world is the statue of Christ the Redeemer atop a hill overlooking Rio De Janeiro. The Santa Teresa neighborhood is an elegant display of a cultural fusion between 19th century Portuguese and local architecture. Sugarloaf mountain stands at 1300ft above the harbor and is globally respected for the panoramic experience it presents to tourists who wish to see the city in all its spender. Whether its the elegant streets during carnivore celebration or white sandy beaches there can be no doubt that Rio is an iconic fit of human accomplishment.
1. Hong Kong in Asia.
The iconic Hong Kong skyline has been the source of inspiration for many photographers and filmmakers. During the night the light from the forest of skyscrapers can seem to light up the waters of Victoria Harbor and it should be no surprise that there are more skyscrapers in Hong Kong per sq ft, than anywhere else in the world. The chic modern skyscrapers put up during British occupation should not deceive you into thinking that Hong Kong doesn’t have a history. The walled village contains the spirit of the days past and embodied in the architecture of the place. The Ocean Park theme park is known as a local version of Disneyland possessing cultural symbols more relevant to the local people. So whether tourists want to enjoy a walk down history, have some fun in a theme park or even relax at one of the famous Hong Kong massage parlors, one thing to be certain of is that this place will not disappoint.
Asia, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Reasons Why Hong Kong is One of The Most Beautiful Cities in The World

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If you have not visited Hong Kong, you’re in for a surprising adventure. This Island city is truly a jewel in the Orient. Planning to visit Hong Kong will surely leave you with lasting memories and the wish to always return as fast as possible. The different terrain of Hong Kong, encompassing both rural and urban aspects, will leave you amazed.

hong kong

There’s no shortage of lovely activities when you’re visiting this beautiful city. Wherever your tastes lie, you’ll find something that will suit your interest. The city boasts many recreation facilities, sports and Hong Kong massage, whether you want to watch or participate. Hong Kong plays host to a lot of performing arts cultural events and festivals that are internationally popular and offer up a lot of opportunities to discover some surprising talent. In addition, it gives up many religious places of worship that are really worth viewing, starting from temples and shrines to monasteries. All these recreational, cultural, artistic, as well as devotional activities, are available in so diverse forms in Hong Kong, you’ll have a hard time selecting just a few while you’re there.

You’ll find that there’re diversified landscapes to also visit, from the heart of the urban center of Hong Kong which boasts superb-modern skyscrapers to the great desert islands as well as sandy, hidden beaches. The main office of Hong Kong bank is situated in the midst of the city, frequently described as among the world’s most magnificent buildings. The Convention Center and Central Plaza are as well, buildings of note which exemplify the high urbanity which it can give. Also, on the other side of the coin are the good-looking parks that share the city, and really make up around 40 percent of the terrain, balancing the hub of the metropolitan’s commerce as well as finance with a tranquil and peaceful place to take your lunch or a stop from a busy day to just enjoy its calming scenery.

The seascape and beaches provided by the Hong Kong’s Island nature can be seen on the beautiful beaches as well as coral reef aquarium that’s situated at the Ocean Park. There’re several bay areas that give amazing opportunities for swimming or fishing. The diversity of the city is perpetuated the more when including the nightlife observed at Causeway Bay and Nathan or Wanchai road, where restaurants and bars cater to the crowds of the late night and people who look to enjoy the certain nocturnal activity. Also, floating restaurants can be observed in the district of Aberdeen.

Hong Kong’s city is so interesting and diverse that everybody can find something of amazement and interest. Whether you’re interested in museums like The Museum of Fine Arts, or Madame Toussaud’s or Cosmonautics Museums or the Medical, you will be amazed at the assortment of choices available. You can hit up the financial district bustle or visit the Garden of Birds for you to relax and just enjoy the flowering plants. There’s indeed something that will suit all interests and tastes. You will be truly surprised by the beauty.

Travel Planning, Travel Tips

7 Travel Trends for 2018 That Will Drive the Global Tourism Industry

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With population growth comes the rise in the demand for tourist packages and exciting vacations. Just like the entertainment industry, tourism is booming and coming back stronger every year, probably due to the same factor – pure, unadulterated hedonism. Throughout the year, the incessant pace of everyday obligations and soul-crushing work leaves people thirsty for a grand escapade, and in 2018, the menu has never been so long and varied. If this fact alone makes you pumped for the coming vacation, read on to find out what seven travel trends for 2018 will drive the global tourism industry.

Experience more important than comfort

Traveling used to be all about comfort. Even today, most casual travelers will look for tasteful hotels that offer scheduled meals and exclusive access to a nearby beach. However, there is a strikingly different subculture that is looking for completely opposite offers from agencies – flexible experiences that will provide them with the basics and leave them to revel in the experience.

Loose framework better than schedule

These people are looking for authentic bed and breakfast accommodations or Airbnb setups. They do not want scheduled guided tours; instead, they use their trusty cell phone to tell them where they are going, they gather information and use GPS completely independently from any guides. In many ways, this is the best way to “get your hands dirty” and truly get a feel of the country you are visiting.

Free marketing via social media shared photos and videos

In relation to the aforementioned cell phones, mobile bookings, ratings and social network activities are through the roof. With the access to high-quality phone cameras, people are making audio-visual diaries of their travels as they upload photos and videos to their social media profiles. This alone is a form of self-replicating marketing for many popular regions in the world. Furthermore, short video formats are slowly replacing the ever so popular endless photo-ops, which make the destination appear even more appealing.

LGBTQ travel is on the rise

Up to 7% of world trotting travelers identify as members of LGBTQ community, and vibrant tourism targeted for this population has been booming like mad over the last three years. In fact, the statistics are showing that LGBTQ identifying people are traveling more often and have different spending habits than members of the cisgender population.

And so is female solo traveling

80% of all travel decisions are made by women, married or single. Naturally, as western culture encourages equality and independence, this also reflects on tourism – there is a noticeable increase in arrangements made by solo female travelers who are just as bold and adventurous in their choice of packages as their male counterparts – in 2018, solo female travelers are looking for challenging traveling experiences more than comfortable, pampering setups in five star hotels and world-class spas.

Food tourism never goes out of style

Gourmet inspired vacations have actually been at the heart of traveling since forever – throughout history, many people have been prepared to embark on long pilgrimages just to mingle in the region that is known for their dream food, be it cheese or pasta.

Appropriately, there is a significant increase in interest in the food travel market. In fact, the World Food Travel Association has concluded that the industry is generating more than 150 billion US dollars per year. If this number does not give you a coronary, neither will a salty Bavarian weisswurst.

Adhering to this statistic, travel agencies are looking to capitalize on such a lucrative trend and offer some delish sounding packages. In fact, one of the popular trends right now consists of having an exquisite world-class meal in your living room by hiring a personal chef service, while regions like Singapore offer a bona fide event out of a visit to the farmer’s market where you haggle over condiments and watch food being prepared on the spot.

Blood-pumping adventures against mundane boredom

As it turns out, before your typical 2018 traveler indulges in a region-specific meal, they’re looking to fill up on something else – a blood-pumping activity or an experience that will leave them exasperated and excited. Plunging into the depths off the coast of the Cayman Islands to investigate haunting shipwrecks, hiking on the steep slopes of Swiss Alps or driving across the African safari as the wind blows-back your hair are only some of the adrenaline-inducing adventures travelers seek out. Additionally, it appears they mostly opt for bikes to move around, even when the terrain is not particularly friendly.

Travel preferences tend to evolve with the constant flow of dangerous hotspots and simmering conflict zones, but they never alter the landscape completely. People know what makes their heart flutter with excitement and they recognize true beauty when it stands right in front of them. Global safety concerns notwithstanding, the demand for more travel packages and preferences continues to grow at a relentless pace, and it appears 2018 will be a busy and exciting year for tourism. All things considered, it’s not hard to discern one thing from these travel trends – working hours might have become crueler around the world, but quite fittingly, people like to party and travel just as hard as they work.

Africa, Asia, Editor's Picks, Europe, Luxury Travel, North America, Travel Planning

The Best Travel Destinations for 2018

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The Best Travel Destinations for 2018

Len Rutledge

The travel and tourism industry is booming as more and more people take advantage of low airfares and increased opportunities to see new places. While there has been some resistance to increased visitor numbers in some European destinations, much of the world is still welcoming visitors with open arms.

Here are some suggestions for places to travel and activities to experience in 2018.

The Philippines

Brilliant green rice fields, teeming cities, colourful jeepneys, stunning beaches, and smiling, happy-go-lucky people are all part of the Philippines scene. With more than 7000 tropical islands to choose from, you can find what you are looking for. Divers have long known about the country’s underwater attractions while Northern Palawan is perfect for sea kayakers, and Boracay is a world-class kiteboarding and beach destination.

The Philippines was colonised for 400 years and vestiges of the Spanish era can be seen in exuberant town festivals and centuries-old stone churches while huge shopping malls, fast-food chains and widespread spoken English come from the influence of the Americans.

travel

Boracay Beach. Credit: Philippines Tourism

Manila, the capital, is a pulsating hub that blends the quaint with the modern, the mundane with the extraordinary. Cebu is a choice tourist destination with balmy weather, pristine beaches, crystalline waters, and luxurious resorts. Banaue is a place for nature adventures and cultural immersion and the rice terraces are quite extraordinary. Palawan has thick green forest, white-sand beach, sparkling water and magnificently sculpted jade islands.

Philippines Airlines operates from most continents to Manila and there are some direct services to Cebu.

South Africa

Go almost anywhere in South Africa and you can experience a combination of nature, wildlife, culture, adventure, heritage and style. During these tough economic times, it’s good to find a bargain destination where you can even afford luxury and have spending money left over. There is natural beauty in mountains, forests, coasts and deserts and world-class facilities.

It is not possible to talk about South Africa without mentioning wildlife. Everyone wants to see the Big Five, but there are also whales, penguins, meerkats, wild dogs, birds and much more. If you are looking to experience wildlife viewing in luxury, Tintswalo Safari Lodge, in the pristine private Manyeleti Game Reserve could be the answer. It shares an unfenced boundary with the renowned Kruger National Park and suites are decorated to reflect colonial times.

Tintswalo Atlantic Resort. Credit: Tintswalo Atlantic

The same company has beach-side Tintswalo Atlantic, a 5 star, award-winning boutique lodge nestled at the base of Table Mountain National Park near Cape Town. This is one of the city’s hidden gems. The views of a wild sea crashing below contrasting with a roaring fire and fabulous welcome drinks will set the tone for a memorable stay.

For a city location, the all-suites Michelangelo Towers in Sandton, Johannesburg appeals because it is directly connected to the Michelangelo Towers Mall and the Sandton Convention Centre, and is located directly opposite Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square in the in heart of South Africa’s  Richest Square Mile.

Monaco

Situated at France’s southeastern corner near the Italian border, occupying an area of just 2.8 sq. km, Monaco might be the second smallest country in the world (after the Vatican), but what it lacks in size it sure makes up for in attitude and variety.

There is an ornate opera house, Michelin-starred restaurants, and casinos, palaces, cathedrals, supercars, mega yachts, deluxe hotels and designer boutiques. There are also museums and galleries, festivals, nightclubs, and gardens with exotic plants and sea views.

Monaco. Credit: Monaco Government Tourist Bureau

The country is one of the most surprising and rewarding destinations in Europe. It is just 30 minutes by car, bus or taxi from Nice Airport through hairpin bends and along rocky cliffs. Monaco enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year and a temperate climate.

Berlin

As most readers will know, Berlin has had a chequered history in recent decades. It is now emerging as one of Europe’s leading centres of culture. The modern Mitte district has the Museum Island UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also two opera houses and six major theatres, as well as museums, innumerable galleries and arts venues. Now, many new major cultural projects are locating here, just a few minutes’ walk apart.

Opened earlier this year, the new Pierre Boulez Saal is a major international concert hall with the elliptically-shaped hall regularly presenting concerts and chamber music. A complete contrast is provided by the 1740s Staatsoper Unter den Linden, Berlin’s first opera house, which reopened in October 2017. Unfortunately, Berlin’s most popular museum, the Pergamon, is partially closed but from mid- 2018, visitors can view part of the Pergamon Altar’s treasures at a temporary exhibition building directly opposite Museum Island.

The James-Simon-Galerie will be the Museum Island’s new central entrance and visitor centre with central ticket office, cloakrooms and facilities, cafés and a museum shop when it opens in 2019.

Berlin-Ansichten. Credit: Visit Berlin

To complement all this development, several major hotels have opened in 2017 and more are scheduled for 2018.

The Berlin City Centre Alexanderplatz, opened in May offering 344 rooms with a modern design over nine floors. Later, The Yard,  4-star boutique hotel with 55 rooms opened, followed by the Orani Berlin, a classy hotel with 42 subtle but rather luxuriously furnished rooms. Between now and year’s end the 60-metre-high Motel One Berlin-Alexanderplatz with 708 rooms, The Meininger Hotel Berlin East Side Gallery with 245 rooms and the Hilton Berlin City East with 254 rooms will all open.

Bargain rooms may well be on offer during the European winter.

Los Angeles

Many readers will have been to Los Angeles, USA but most will not be aware of the wide range of museums, art galleries and concert halls that are spread throughout the city. In the downtown area, the futuristic Walt Disney Theatre is an architectural masterpiece and is right next door to the city’s newest cultural and design showpiece, The Broad. L.A.Live is another vibrant entertainment complex offering restaurants and live music venues.

Walt Disney Theatre. Credit: Discover LA. Photo by Matt Marriott

The Westside perhaps has even more attractions. There is the Getty Center located atop the Santa Monica Mountains then on Museum Row, there is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Pettersen Automotive Museum, the Craft and Folk Museum and the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. In Century City you will find the Annenberg Space for Photography.

Hollywood, known as the entertainment capital of the world, is an essential part of the L.A. experience. Film enthusiasts will love the renovated TCL Chinese Theatre and you can tour the Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars. Not far away is Universal Studios Hollywood with its rides, shows and tours.

If you consider L.A. nothing more than a gateway to the USA, you had better re-think. It is one of the top picks for places to visit in 2018.

The Best Travel Destinations for 2018www.LenRutledge.com

www.LenRutledge.com

Luxury Travel, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

How to Cruise Like a Pro: Travel Tips You Should Know as a First-Time Cruiser

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Cruise vacation provides a unique experience. Since you are not limited to a single location, it is easy to feel disconnected from the world on a cruise. After all, that is the point. If you decide to embark on such a journey, it can be one of the greatest adventures of your lifetime. Everything is neatly wrapped up into a package of pure hedonism: comfortable accommodation, effortless transportation, various awe-inspiring locations, delicious meals and smashing entertainment.
cruise

If these attributes are enough to convince you and you want to learn how to cruise like a pro, here are some travel tips you should know as a first-time cruiser.

Pack smartcruise

Let us discuss the first advantage of the cruise that has already been mentioned in the introduction – you get to travel to numerous locations, yet you will only unpack once. A cruise ship is your hub of entertainment and your home away from home. You will rarely stay in one location longer than a day and you should always have a trusty backpack prepped. Fill the backpack with things that are necessary for a daily excursion – one extra t-shirt, a bottle of water, and a tablet. Keep your wallet and your phone in your pockets. If you suffer from hearing loss, you can follow this guide which has some tips on how to travel with hearing loss. This is all you need – pack as light as you can and leave the rest of the stuff in your room on the ship.

As far as packing for your cruise goes, try not to pack more than one big suitcase. After all, you’ll get a chance to wash your clothes on the ship, so you do not have to bring along the entire wardrobe. Take a close look at the itinerary for your cruise before you pack and check if you will need at least one formal attire. Shoes are the most important thing – pack the most comfortable sneakers you have, two pairs at least, and one pair of formal shoes. Fitness clothes are a must – there are gyms and various sport venues on the cruise ship.

Choose a specific cruisecruise

There are many types of cruise programs you can choose for your perfect vacation. These programs are fashioned to follow a particular theme and focus on specific things, such as carnivals or historical locations or tropical islands or entertainment shows. This gives you an excellent opportunity to sift through reasonable deals for Carnival cruises and find the one that will give you everything a cruise can offer for less money, which you can use to spend on day trips and sea excursions on a power catamaran for example. Knowing where to find the best deals (and when) is another trait of a real cruise pro, but there is no specific instruction that can get you faster up the learning curve. Since various agencies offer different deals all the time, the best course of action is to just start scanning the internet for the best deals. Cruise Critic’s review website is a good place to start. Look for early-bird rates and last-minute deals.

As far as tech goes

cruise

Check with the cruise agency how much using the internet and Wi-Fi costs. You’ll be surprised to learn that roaming charges and Wi-Fi can take a sizeable bite out of your travelling budget. However, remember you are on vacation. The point of the cruise is to disconnect from the world and enjoy yourself. Keep your “outer world” contacts to a minimum and use applications, such as magicApp or Viber to make phone calls by using wireless network – no matter what it costs, it surely beats the roaming price tag.

Alcohol is a touchy subjectcruise

Alcohol policies on cruise ships are a complicated subject. The regulations themselves can be mind-boggling, but they usually boil down to a simple thing – you can bring one 750 ml bottle of wine onboard with you. It’s best to nip that hope in the bud. Even though cruises are all-inclusive packages, your bill can really turn dizzyingly big if you drink alcohol onboard. That bottle you’ve brought along with you seems like a small thing, but it can mean a lot in the long run, and avoid drinking alcohol on a cruise in general – there are a plethora of other activities to enjoy that are bound to keep you busy.

In my opinion, all the advantages of a cruise vacation boil down to great organization. You do not have to bother with organizing your own adventure. Everything is prepared for you and there is a schedule so that you won’t have to worry about planning. The impression of your first cruise will hardly wear off for months after you have returned home. Soon enough, with these tips and a little bit of cruise experience, you will become a cruise pro who shares advice online.

Travel Planning, Travel Tips, Travelling with Kids

Large Family Vacations: 8 Tips for Traveling Cheap

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Even with a large family, it is easy to slash traveling expenses. Traveling with large family can be a fun adventure for the entire family. It is also fun to discover how far the family can make their dollars stretch. Here are eight ways to save when going on large family vacations.


1. If at all possible, drive instead of flying. Even if gas prices are soaring, it is generally cheaper to drive than to fly for large families. Plan well ahead of time to make your road trip all about attractions, and not miles. Plan to drive several hours a day and stop along the way to take in relevant historical sights and attractions. Driving increases the family’s ability to see and feel the world around them. If anyone uses a wheelchair, make sure every accommodation is available for the trip.

2. Pack well. It is easy enough for small families to lose track of clothing. With large families, it is almost a given. Knowing how to pack for a large family can save a lot of headaches on the trip. Pack outfits in gallon zipper bags. Keep pajamas in a special bag.

3. Make it a priority to find lodging accommodation that fit your family’s size. It is difficult to fit a family of five or six into a standard hotel room. Rooms that adjoin can also end up being quite expensive. Why not look for vacation home rentals or an extended stay hotel with all the necessary accommodations?

4. National parks are beautiful and can provide some of the best memories for vacationing families. You may even plan your family vacation around several national parks. Consider renting a lodge for your large family if one is available. Some families even choose to camp outside.

 


5. You may or may not be familiar with the term “shoulder season.” This includes the weeks just before and after your destination’s peak season. Traveling during shoulder seasons can lower your costs and save on lodging or airfare. For example, ski resort areas are less crowded in the autumn while the weather is still nice. For the beach, the shoulder season is May or September. Also, there is a good chance that families can upgrade to bigger suites, without additional cost, during a shoulder season.

6. When traveling with large family numbers by air, book the family flight far in advance. Airlines usually post their schedules about 300 days in advance or so. Beyond 300 days, prices generally increase. Families should also look for nonstop flights. Connecting flights generally cost more money. With large families, it is preferable for everyone to sit together too.

7. Decide on locations, venues, and dates and get everyone to agree. Everyone usually has a place they would like to visit or experience. Most People also have a place they would rather not visit. Let one family member take charge and gather all the information well ahead of time. Plan the trip based on what the youngest family member can handle. Be ready for multiple breaks during the day and lots of stops.

8. Buy your family snacks in local grocery stores. This can be a small adventure all by itself. Local stores offer a glimpse of what it would be like to live in your vacation destination. How does the store pack its fruits and vegetables? What new candies are available? Are there familiar brands your family prefers? Buying in local grocery stores, if available, can reduce food bills. It is also a good idea to bring water if you can to rinse off scrapes and to clean sticky fingers and hands.

Your family can also tap into the power of technology. There are apps you can download for nearby gas stops, sites to see along the route, local restaurants, inexpensive hotel accommodations, rental cars, vehicle maintenance, attractions, medical assistance, and so much more. Technology can be a great friend when it comes to family road trips. A travel agent can also help find your family the very best deals. Some travel deals offer specials for five or more people. Utilize your travel agent’s insider information to your advantage and enable your family to have the time of their life.