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5 Reasons Why Cruises Are Becoming A Top Vacation Choice For Young Professionals
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Young professionals are the future of cruising.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association’s annual report, 25 to 40-year-olds are the most enthusiastic demographic for both returning to cruises and trying cruising for the first time.

While you’d expect more of a silver-haired crowd on a typical cruise, it’s still not a total shock that younger crowds are turning to the seas.

Travelers in their 20s and 30s today are the product of family-friendly cruising promotions in the early 2000s, now grown up and returning to the familiar no-plans-needed vacation staple. But why are they opting into cruising now?

Social Media

Cruise lines are getting the word out on social media: This isn’t your parents’ cruise experience.

Algorithms on TikTok and Youtube give a helping hand to cruise vlogs that showcase more relaxed on-deck environments, improved “foodie” dining experiences, trendy activities, and adventurous excursions. Most highlight the excellent value and all-inclusive ease of cruising.

Some videos showcase remote work from the pool deck for a picture-perfect workation, while others lure in young professionals with the promise of digital detox.

Virgin Voyages is one of the cruise providers tapping into the potential of social media to include younger travelers. Virgin recently engaged over 1 million TikTok users with a viral #NowWereVoyaging dance challenge to the tune of its Karma Chameleon music-video-style ad campaign.

“We’ve seen that piece of advertising be three times more effective than any other advertising we’d ever done,” Virgin president Nirmal Saverimuttu recently told CBS.

Updated Amenities and Customization

Move over dress codes and shuffleboard. Today’s cruises offer unpretentious hospitality that prioritizes the unique experiences younger professionals value.

Fresh amenities tailored for the 25 to 40-year-old crowd include:
- Silent discos
- Brunch bars
- Wine tastings
- Vegan options
- Escape rooms
- Laser tag
- Outdoor yoga
- Mixology classes
- Improved Wi-Fi
- Culturally immersive excursions
- Adventure sports
While the wider variety of age-appropriate amenities is definitely a perk, the increasing flexibility and uber-customization of these activities really attracts young professionals.

This age group dances to the beat of their own drum, and wouldn’t be caught dead being herded into the same inflexible activities as every other passenger every day. They know what they want, so cruise lines are letting them have it.

Sampling Multiple Countries

Young professionals are short on PTO and budget-conscious. Cruises let them sample the maximum number of destinations in one hassle-free short trip before choosing where to spend their hard-earned dollars and vacation days.

This way, travelers don’t need to commit to a place they’ve never seen before. They can feel confident in planning their next extended vacation in a destination they loved from the cruise route.

Destination sampling also lets younger travelers have diverse off-ship experiences and create more social media content from a variety of destinations in the same trip.

Travel advisor Mary Jane Manole of Luxx Travel recently told Travel Weekly, “Young travelers like to be challenged, excited and have material for their social media.”

Ready-Made Itinerary

Many young professionals are dealing with decision fatigue as they reach pivotal moments in their careers and personal lives all at the same time.

Under persistent stress about whether you’re making the right choices, a ready-made vacation with someone else at the helm may be just what the doctor ordered.

“The hardest decision I had to make over the course of four days was which deck chair to pick for my morning sunbathing session,” explained young professional Sara Bosworth when trying out Carnival Pride.

To Celebrate

Your twenties and thirties are a time of big changes and celebration-worthy wins: promotions, new jobs, business launches, home ownership, marriage, milestone birthdays, and more. Cruises have long represented festivity, so younger travelers are rightly turning to the seas to toast their successes.

“Young customers are most often on board to celebrate, for a birthday, graduation, work promotion or even a divorce,” said Nathan Rosenberg, the chief brand officer at Virgin Voyages, recently commented.

With customized celebration packages, all-inclusive alcohol options, and on-deck parties and clubs, cruise ships are a great way for young professional travelers to celebrate their achievements.

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May 20, 2023
The Top Five Things I Both Love And Hate About Visiting Paris

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People often say that Paris is the kind of city you either love or you hate. But it is possible to do both!

More than 44 million travelers visited Paris in 2022, and anecdotal reviews of the city vary wildly.

Paris is my favorite city in the world, and the short hop across The English Channel means that I’m able to visit regularly. But no city is perfect, and it’s easy to see why a visit to Paris leaves some travelers with a bitter taste in their mouths.

You can love the view from the Eiffel Tower but hate the queues to get in. Love the quaint cafes, but hate the surly waiters.

Here are the top five things I both love and hate about visiting Paris:

The Crowds

Paris is a busy and bustling city, and it can be particularly crowded with tourists during the peak Spring and Summer months.

On the one hand, the crowds make for great people-watching, particularly when you’re sat outside a boulevard café with a coffee. People watching feels like a national sport in Paris, and the more people there are, the better!

On the other hand, visiting Paris attractions when they are crowded can be frustrating and time-consuming.

The elevators to ascend to the top of the Eiffel Tower will leave you crammed in like sardines in a tin, and while I’ve been to the Louvre, I’ve only ever seen segments of the famous Mona Lisa from behind someone else’s head.

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If you can, I recommend traveling to Paris during the quiet season: it may be bitterly cold in the winter, but at least you’ll have room to breathe in the city’s main attractions. You can also ice skate on the first deck of the Eiffel Tower during the winter months. And the Champs-Elysees looks so pretty when it’s lit up for Christmas.

The Cost

Paris is ranked as the second-most expensive city in the world. And while it is possible to visit Paris on a budget, you should plan for it to cost more than you think.

It is possible to buy a baguette or croissant to take out and eat while sitting along the River Seine for just a couple of euros. This is one of my favorite ways to eat on a budget in Paris.

And walking around the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens or the famous Montmartre district doesn’t have a cost at all.

But accommodation and restaurant-standard food are expensive, particularly during peak periods. And while many European cities open their museums and art galleries to the public for free, it costs 17 euros to visit the Louvre in Paris.

In my experience, the cost of food and activities in particular can be more expensive than in many other European cities if you aren’t prepared to shop around or only enjoy activities that are free of charge.

The Size of the City

Paris is a large city, and many of its most famous attractions are not located close to each other.

The 300-meter-tall Eiffel Tower dominates the city skyline, while churches such as Notre Dame and the Basilica of the Sacre-Coeur attract millions of visitors each year. But the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame are just over 5km apart from each other. You will travel almost 7km from the Eiffel Tower to reach the Basilica de Sacre-Coeur.

This means that if you want to see all of the main attractions in Paris in a relatively short period of time, you need to think ahead and plan your route to do so. It might look like you can wander from Montmartre to the Louvre in the movies, but it’s just not possible in the real world.

While this can mean that Paris isn’t as easy to navigate as other, smaller cities, the good news is that Paris has a very efficient and affordable Metro system. It’s also easy to use and operates until around 1 am.

My favorite way to explore the city’s main attractions is by Batobus: This convenient hop-on, hop-off boat will take you down the River Seine, allowing you to see and stop at all the main attractions you’ll pass on the way.

The size of the city can be both a hindrance and a help: It would be near-impossible to cram so many incredible attractions into a smaller space, and getting lost as you travel from A to B, discovering new side streets and hidden gems, is part of Paris’ charm.

The Food

French food has a reputation for being some of the best in the world. And there are some dishes that the French do better than anyone else.

If you’re looking for decadent fine dining, full-bodied red wines, crusty baguettes and pastries from tiny boulangeries, and delicate macarons and cakes, then there is nowhere better to be. You can even grab Laduree macarons whilst passing through certain train stations in Paris.

But if you’re looking for something a little less, well, French, then you’re going to be disappointed. In the mood for sushi or tacos? This is not the place for you.

While of course, world cuisine is available, there is less diversity in the food in Paris than in most other European capital cities. The comparison to London is a great example of this.

This might not be a problem if you’re only in Paris for a couple of days, but if you’re spending weeks in the city, you might find you start craving dishes that are a little more plain and simple than the traditional cuisine on offer.

The Je Ne Sais Quoi

Je ne sais quoi is a quality that cannot be described or named easily, and Paris just has it. It is a city that feels effortlessly cool.

Whether you’re admiring the fashion choices of the French ‘it girls’ or watching school children walking to the park, French people ooze style and confidence.

Even watching a middle-aged woman cycling home with a baguette for dinner feels exciting when you’re in Paris.

But if you arrive in Paris expecting perfection, you might be disappointed.

Paris has a reputation for being the most romantic city in the world, and it doesn’t always live up to that reputation. Some travelers arrive expecting love and romance and are shocked when they find Paris is a dirty, noisy city like any other.

The Eiffel Tower may be beautiful. But it also has a children’s carousel underneath it, and the surrounding streets are packed with hawkers selling low-quality souvenirs to tourists.

While for me, the chaos and the bustle add to the je ne sais quoi, it’s easy to see why this might put off other travelers, especially those expecting hearts and flowers at every turn.

It’s also worth mentioning that Paris smells. And not like flowers. This is particularly true in the heat of the summer when urine and garbage leave a lingering stench in parts of the city. It could either ruin the city for you or just add to its je ne sais quoi.

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May 19, 2023
This Is The Top Destination In Europe To Get The Most For Your Money

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Traveling to Europe can be expensive, and in today’s economic climate, many travelers are looking to get more bang for their buck.

If you want to travel without breaking the bank this summer, you should consider visiting Lisbon in Portugal.

According to a new report from the Post Office, Lisbon is the cheapest city in the Eurozone to visit this summer.

The research looked at a range of costs travelers would typically incur, including hotel costs, meals, and the cost of visiting the main cultural attractions.

Here’s everything you need to know:

Cheaper Than Eastern Europe

The average costs involved in visiting Lisbon in 2023 are only 2% higher than they were in 2022. That’s a much smaller increase in costs than any other European city included in the research.

What makes this so surprising is that Eastern European destinations are typically considered the best value in Europe.

Last year, Vilnius in Lithuania was the cheapest destination to visit, but Lisbon narrowly knocked it down into second place this year.

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Only four Western European cities made it into the top ten cheapest destinations in Europe list. They were Lisbon (Portugal), Athens (Greece), Porto (Portugal), and Lille (France).

It is no coincidence that two of these cities are in Portugal: Portugal is a country that offers a warm and friendly welcome alongside affordable prices.

The Average Costs In Lisbon

So, what can you expect to spend if you choose to visit Lisbon for your summer vacation?

The average price of a two-night hotel stay in the city for two people is $150, on average, which is just a 5.2% increase on 2022’s average prices. This is based on guests staying in a 3-star hotel.

For a three-course meal for two people with a bottle of house wine, you can expect to pay around $48 on average.

A cup of coffee in a café will set you back just $1.70 and a bottle of beer in a bar just $2.80.

Culture vultures can expect to pay around $5.50 to visit a top art gallery in the city and $11 for one of the highest-quality heritage sites.

Prefer to see all the attractions Lisbon has to offer via the convenience of a sightseeing city bus tour? This will cost you $22.50 per person.

Why Visit Lisbon?

As well as being incredibly affordable, Lisbon is also a beautiful city packed full of cultural attractions.

As a capital city, it has all the modern bustle and amenities you would expect, but these are blended with an ancient, historical feel.

This is because Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, second only to Athens.

Lisbon is famed not only for its unique historical center but also for its incredible weather and delicious food.

While the food might be affordable here, that doesn’t mean that quality isn’t exceptional. Because Lisbon is a melting pot of cultures, this is reflected in the cuisine. Looking for dishes that are traditionally Portuguese? You can enjoy incredible seafood and delicate pastries called Pasteis de nata.

If you’re looking for a sun-soaked break, then you’re in luck because Lisbon is also the sunniest capital city in mainland Europe. If you visit in July, you’ll be able to experience an incredible 352 hours of sunshine.

From the high-octane nightlife to the incredible views, Lisbon has so much to offer travelers. Whilst it is best known as a city-break destination, Lisbon also boasts its own coastline not far from the city center.

This long stretch of golden sand beach is ideal if you’re looking to relax and unwind away from the bustle of the city. It is also the best place to eat the seafood that Lisbon is famous for, as close as possible to the source.

And thanks to the strong southerly swell, the Lisbon coast is a great place for surfing and windsurfing too. It’s an affordable destination that offers something for everyone.

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May 19, 2023
6 Reasons Why I Think Mexico’s Third Largest City Is One Of The Top Destinations In The Country
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Americans love traveling to Mexico! Given its close proximity to the U.S. and its amazing culture and beaches, there is always a wonderful place to visit.

Those wonderful places are not just limited to coastal cities. There are many popular places to visit in inland Mexico.

For instance, the capital of Mexico is the bustling mega city – Mexico City – the largest city in North America, is massively popular with Americans.

Also commonly referred to as CDMX to shorten its proper name, Ciudad de Mexico. Many Americans find themselves loving CDMX so much they end up moving here as a digital nomad!

There are others, such as the cultural hub of Guadalajara and the trendy city that will take you back in time – Oaxaca.

It seems you hardly ever hear of travelers visiting the third-largest city in the country. That would be beautiful Monterrey, Mexico.

I visited this city without knowing much about it. Quite honestly, I had already checked off most of the places in Mexico that interested me.

That left Monterrey as one of the last places on my Mexico bucket list. It was appealing in the sense that such a large city seemed to go relatively unnoticed.

Here are 6 reasons why I think it should be much more popular as a top destination in Mexico:

Top Notch Museums

There are many museums you will come across while exploring Monterrey. Perhaps the most impressive is Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, otherwise simply known as MARCO.

Located on the outskirts of Monterrey’s macro plaza, which is essentially the town square, MARCO is a must-add to your Monterrey itinerary.

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The best part of all is admission is free!

Other museums to check out:
- Museo de Historia Mexicana
- Metropolitan Museum of Monterrey
A City Designed For Hotel Rooftops

I stayed at the Radisson Hotel Monterrey San Jeronimo. While this is not a personal endorsement for the hotel, I found myself unable to leave the scenic rooftop!

Monterrey is a very pretty city surrounded by rolling green hills and the Cerro de la Silla mountains.

From late Spring through the end of Summer, Monterrey temperatures will reach the 90s or higher, creating perfect rooftop pool weather.

There are many nice hotels offering great amenities throughout the city, but this a perfect city to hang at the pool, drink some Mexican cervezas, and take in the stunning cityscape views.

Enjoy The Outdoors

After enough time at the pool taking in the views, maybe that will inspire you to take a hike in the mountains (weather permitting, of course).

Cerro de la Silla is easily accessible from the city. There are several marked trails that lead to the highest points for an even more breathtaking view.

Monterrey is also home to some truly magnificent caves outside the city, an easy Uber ride away.

The Grutas De Garcia (Garcia Caves) are massive underground caverns millions of years old.

Visitors will have to take a short hike to reach the entrance, but it is well worth the trek for this natural wonder.

Fewer Crowds Than Mexico City And Guadalajara

Those who have been to CDMX know that traffic can be an absolute nightmare! In Guadalajara, browsing certain crowded markets or rush hour traffic can be no joke too.

As the third largest city, Monterrey of course has traffic, but it’s much more manageable than the two larger cities.

Certain areas of the city, such as downtown, are very walkable, and the streets and sidewalks have more open space.

It can be much more enjoyable to venture out and browse the markets, take a stroll along the riverwalk, or take an Uber across the city.

Local Cuisine

It’s no secret that Mexico has some amazing food options all across the country. Just as Mole Poblano is unique to Puebla or Tortas Ahogadas are unique to Guadalajara, Monterrey has Cabrito.

This delicious dish consists of a young goat raised on a limited diet. It can be cooked and served in a variety of ways. Most restaurants will usually have at least 2 different options of Cabrito.

Machaca and Carne Asada are two others that are commonly found on menus across this region of Mexico.

Barrio Antiguo

By day, Barrio Antiguo feels like a time capsule of Old Mexico. This neighborhood is plentiful with cobblestone streets, cafes, and colorful buildings reminiscent of Havana.

You can smell the aroma of delicious food and fresh coffee from wandering local vendors, especially on weekends when a market takes over the street.

There is also the Mercado Barrio Antiguo nearby for an authentic shopping experience.

At night, this area takes on a new personality. Thumping music and neon lights can be heard from a distance as this area is known for its nightlife scene.

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May 18, 2023
Top 6 Reasons To Visit The World’s Happiest Country

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Finland is officially the happiest country in the world.

For the sixth year running, the World Happiness Report has declared Finland to have a happiness score of 7.842 out of a possible 10, making it happier than any other destination.

Just some of the reasons why Finns are so happy, according to the report, is because they feel a strong sense of community and trust in one another. The country also has some of the lowest levels of suspicion of government corruption.

But what does that mean for tourists? It means that the people of Finland are warm and welcoming and that the country is a safe place to travel.

Here are six of the best reasons to consider visiting Finland:

Breathtaking Landscapes

Finland is well known for its beautiful and unspoiled landscapes. From snow-covered pine trees to rugged mountains and flat rolling hills to the south, the range of landscapes to appreciate is incredibly diverse.

In addition to this, there are 39 national parks to explore in Finland. Visitors can also explore Saimaa, the country’s largest lake, where people travel from across the globe to fish.

Of course, the main attraction of Finland’s landscapes is the chance to view the breathtaking aurora borealis, better known as the Northern Lights.

Finnish Lapland is the place to go for the best chance to see this natural phenomenon. The Northern Lights season in Finnish Lapland is between Mid-August until Early April.

Delicious Food

There are some national cuisines that are world-renowned thanks to their broad appeal. Italian, Chinese, and Mexican foods can be found almost anywhere you travel.

The same cannot be said of Finnish food, but that doesn’t mean that Finnish food isn’t delicious and worthy of exploration.

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Seafood is abundant due to the huge number of lakes in the country, and chefs in Finland focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make the cuisine especially appealing.

Gravlax, rye bread, and sauteed reindeer are particularly popular local dishes.

Modern Architecture

Fans of modern, minimalist architecture will love visiting Finland.

Many of the buildings take inspiration from the local landscapes, and a minimalist, modern approach is often adopted to avoid detracting from the beauty the country already possesses.

Renowned architect Alvar Aalto is particularly popular here, and you will find his work everywhere.

Expect clean lines, natural materials, and buildings that are breathtaking in their simplicity.

Exciting Helsinki

Helsinki is the capital of Finland, as well as its most populous city. While most people think of Finland as being a remote and quiet country, Helsinki is the opposite of these things.

This is the perfect place to explore Finland’s rich cultural heritage, enjoy the vibrant night life, and enjoy Finland’s bustling art and music scene.

Did you know that Finland is the heavy metal capital of the world? Metal heads flock to Helsinki to see the huge number of national and international metal bands that frequently tour the country.

For a slightly quieter night out, there are also plenty of bars and nightclubs to enjoy in the city.

Explore Finnish Lapland

It would be near-impossible to talk about traveling to Finland without mentioning Finnish Lapland.

The home of Santa Claus and his reindeer; big kids and little kids alike will enjoy the high-octane activities to enjoy here, as well as stunning snowy scenery.

You can hunt for Santa Claus in his woodland cabin, ride in a sled pulled by husky dogs or by reindeer, and if you’re looking for even bigger thrills, you can take a snowmobile safari across the rugged terrain.

Finnish Lapland is also a great place to enjoy skiing, with Kittila here considered to be one of the best ski destinations in the country.

Embrace Sauna Culture

Taking a sauna is a very important part of Finnish culture. The concept of the ‘sauna culture’ in Finland involves using the sauna to cleanse both the body and the mind in order to obtain a sense of inner peace.

Almost 90% of Finns take a sauna once a week, and enjoying time in the sauna is integral to Finnish socializing and well-being.

Tourists are encouraged to experience the sauna culture for themselves during their time in Finland and will be presented with plenty of opportunities to give it a try.

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May 17, 2023
These Are The Top 5 Trending Boutique Hotels In Cabo

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Cabo is a popular destination in Mexico known for its many sprawling hotels and all-inclusive resorts.

But if you’re looking for a more intimate, boutique place to stay, there are also plenty of options to choose from in Cabo.

Boutique hotels are perfect for travelers who are looking for a more intimate experience with unique touches you can’t find at larger resorts.

These are 5 of the best boutique hotels in Cabo to consider for your next stay:

1. Mar Del Cabo

Mar Del Cabo is by far one of the best boutique hotels in Cabo. Located between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, this beachfront boutique hotel is full of classic Mexican charm.

The white-washed exterior of this hotel is accented with pops of color from bright blue doors and hot pink bougainvillea. Each room at this hotel is unique, and it offers a quiet respite from the crowds you would find at a massive all-inclusive resort with a quiet, intimate feeling.

The food at Mar Del Cabo is also a standout feature, with much of it being fresh and local farm-to-table fare. Guests at this hotel will enjoy amenities like a swimming pool and beachfront access that is literally just steps away.

Photo: Kashlee Kucheran

2. Drift

Drift is another one of the best boutique hotels in Cabo for travelers who don’t want a typical all-inclusive resort vacation.

This chic, minimalistic hotel has an amazing location in the center of San Jose del Cabo, within walking distance of everything in town. It’s less than 30 minutes walking to the beach or a quick 7-minute drive. You’ll also find amenities like a pool and an on-site bar and restaurant.

If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay in Cabo, this is a fantastic choice, with rooms for under $200 a night in high seasons and $100 a night in low season.

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Photo: Kashlee Kucheran

3. Hotel El Ganzo

Hotel El Ganzo is another great option for travelers who are looking for a unique boutique hotel in Cabo. This hotel is tucked away in the marina of San Jose del Cabo.

This hotel places a large focus on the arts and music, with art installations from local and international artists and live music performances occurring regularly. It’s also a great destination for wellness, with spa treatments and yoga classes available.

This is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a serene escape in Cabo.

Photo: Hotel El Ganzo

4. Acre Resort

If you’re looking for something different in Cabo, look no further than Acre Resort. This boutique hotel is unlike any typical resort in Cabo, offering an intimate feeling in a jungle oasis.

What’s unique about this hotel is that guests can stay in treehouse villas that combine luxury with feeling close to nature.

You’ll still only be a 10-minute drive from the beach, and you can enjoy amenities like a swimming pool, on-site restaurant and bar, and fitness center at the resort.

Photo: Acre Resort

5. Bahia Hotel & Beach House

Finally, Bahia Hotel & Beach House is one of the best boutique hotels in Cabo for travelers who want to stay in the heart of Cabo San Lucas.

Designed for independent travelers who aren’t looking for an all-inclusive resort, this boutique hotel offers attentive personal service with an intimate feeling.

The hotel is located right on the beach, so you can soak up the sun or take a dip in the waves. It’s also a great location for exploring the rest of what Cabo has to offer.

Photo: Bahia Hotel & Beach House

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May 12, 2023
Top 5 Ways To Avoid Being Pickpocketed In Busy Travel Crowds This Summer

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Pickpocketing is a common issue, and whether you’re traveling abroad or in a popular US city, tourists are often the targets.

More than 400,000 pickpocketing incidents are reported globally every day, and one-third of travel insurance claims are made because of lost or stolen valuables.

When you’re in a new place, it can be tempting to lower your guard and lose awareness of your surroundings. After all, you’re on vacation, and you want to have a good time. This is why tourists are natural targets for pickpockets.

But with so many pickpocketing cases, it’s important to remain alert and to keep your valuables safe.

With that in mind, here are five ways you can avoid being a victim of pickpocketing this summer:

Be Aware in High-Traffic Areas

Pickpockets love to operate in high-traffic areas. When you’re in a crowd, you expect to be jostled, and that makes it easier for pickpockets to get close to you and access your valuables.

High-traffic areas tend to be places where there are distractions. Whether you are in a train station trying to plan your journey or at a popular tourist attraction taking a selfie, you are likely to be disoriented or focusing on something else when you’re in a location that attracts high volumes of people.

Pickpockets prey on the parts of the city where they know there will be the most tourists, so you’re also most at risk when you are surrounded by other tourists.

One of the most common pickpocketing tactics is called the ‘bump and go’. One thief will pretend to bump into you accidentally then an accomplice will pick your pocket whilst you’re distracted.

This common tactic works best in high-traffic areas, so it’s important to be mindful when you’re in a crowd. If you are bumped, jostled, or if something just doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and move away from the area.

Keep Your Valuables Hidden

Often measures intended to prevent pickpocketing in popular tourist attractions can actually be used to the pickpocket’s advantage.

One example of this is when tourist attractions boast signs intended to be helpful. These may read ‘beware pickpockets’ or ‘pickpockets operate here’.

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When tourists read signs like these, they will instinctively check their valuables: it’s natural to want to make sure that your property is where you left it.

But what you are actually doing is alerting nearby pickpockets to exactly where you are storing your valuables! If you reach to your left pocket, for example, they will know that this is where your wallet is, and they will be able to access it much more quickly.

You can best protect your valuables by keeping them at the front of your body. A discrete money belt will be harder for pickpockets to access.

If you do instinctively reach to check your valuables, then keep your hand on them firmly until you leave the area. This will deter pickpockets and ensure you can feel if someone tries to access your purse or wallet.

Be Wary At The ATM

Credit card skimming is a con that can cost tourists a significant sum, but luckily this is one scam that is easy to avoid. This crime is often referred to as e-pickpocketing.

To avoid this, don’t communicate with anyone that approaches you when you’re using an ATM machine. Often thieves will suggest they can help you access your money whilst avoiding local bank fees, but in reality, they want to use a card skimming device to access your card details.

Avoid using ATM machines in quiet or run-down areas. If someone is standing too close to you when you’re trying to withdraw cash, then cancel your transaction and use a different machine instead.

You should be particularly wary of using remote ATMs if you’re traveling alone.

If you’re still not sure if an ATM machine is safe to use, then consider paying for goods and services by card instead of withdrawing cash. Many hotels will also have ATM machines or currency exchange services that are safe and reliable.

Don’t Flash The Cash

Try to camouflage your wealth. If you have to take out your wallet to pay for something, remove just the cash you need. Don’t reveal a wad of notes. And never count your money in public.

You can also conceal your wealth by leaving any large or expensive jewelry pieces at home or keeping them in your hotel room safe. Expensive designer clothes from big brands are also best avoided.

If you look expensive or are showing off expensive items, then you are implying that there is something of value in your purse or wallet.

Pickpockets look for two things: easy targets and lucrative targets. The key is to avoid making yourself look like either. So as well as hiding your wealth, you should also avoid looking like a tourist.

Items such as baseball caps, college T-shirts or sweatshirts, and big brand logos can make you stand out from the crowd, particularly in Europe, where these items are less popular. And while there’s nothing wrong with standing out, it will make you an obvious target for pickpockets.

Recognize Pickpockets

Finally, the best way to avoid being pickpocketed is to recognize pickpockets and understand how they operate.

If you notice someone loitering in a public place, checking out passers-by, or their purses and shopping bags, then they may be a pickpocket.

If someone that you don’t know is overly familiar, hugging you, or standing too close while offering directions or advice, then they could also be a pickpocket. Remember that pickpockets often work in teams, so the person being overly familiar with you could be distracting you so that their accomplice can take your wallet.

Knowledge is power, so the more you know about pickpockets and the way they operate, the more likely it is that you can avoid being their next victim.

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May 10, 2023
The Top 5 Cities For A Digital Detox According To New Study
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It’s not uncommon in today’s society to find ourselves glued to our phones. So one of the trendiest ways to travel in 2023 is to take a break from the digital world.

Whether it’s TikTok, Instagram, or the latest AI app, most of us are guilty of too much screen time.

That is why popular travel insurance company, InsureMyTrip, put together the top cities in the world to unplug for a digital detox getaway.

What Factored Into The Study?

InsureMyTrip took into consideration many different metrics to ensure they put together a legitimate list of the best destinations possible for a digital detox.

These were the metrics used:
- Relaxation
- Activities
- Safety
- Internet Access
To determine what factors into the best places to relax, InsureMyTrip looked at a variety of aspects.

For instance, crowded streets in a highly populated city can create a lot of stress to navigate through popular sightseeing areas.

Especially when we all have the temptation to reach into our pockets to grab our smartphones.

InsureMyTrip also looked at how many activities certain places have to distract tourists from perusing social media and how safe places are to avoid having to use a phone.

Lastly, the insurance brokerage factored in how accessible the internet is across the globe. The lack of wifi means less phone use for travelers.

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Each destination was given a score on a scale of 1 through 10. The score is based on each metric combined.

InsureMyTrip relied on sources from the following reputable companies to come up with their scores:
- TomTom
- City Population
- Booking.c o m
- Google Maps
- Pedestrian First
- Viator
- Numbeo
These are the top 5 cities in the world for a digital detox:

5- Copenhagen, Denmark – Score of 7.53

The top 5 cities all happen to be in Europe. Copenhagen comes in ranked at #5, mostly due to its lack of public internet access.

Surprisingly, the beautiful Denmark capital shares the same score as off-path places such as Accra, Ghana and Johannesburg, South Africa in terms of wi-fi scarcity.

4- Lisbon, Portugal – Score of 7.58

Ranking #4 is the picturesque city of Lisbon in the wondrous country of Portugal. Having some of the best spas for the ultimate relaxing getaway is a major factor in this high ranking.

Lisbon also has a lot to offer to keep tourists busy, sharing similar scores with more popular cities such as London and Barcelona.

3- Amsterdam, Netherlands – Score of 7.60

Just like Lisbon, Amsterdam also offers many world-class spas for a relaxing vacation. With its many coffee shops, Amsterdam does offer Wi-Fi across the city.

However, with all the activities, such as simply taking a bike and enjoying a ride outside, it counteracts the temptation to connect with the digital world.

It’s easy to see why Amsterdam is in the top 3 cities to keep your phone turned off.

2- Rome, Italy – Score of 7.65

Rome comes in ranked #2 as a bucket list destination for the ultimate digital detox vacation.

The food, scenery and overall historical culture are indescribable in the best of ways.

The Eternal City has a lot to offer visitors. With a high number of parks, Rome is a great place to be outside and keep your phone tucked away.

There is also a high number of car-free zones to avoid the stress of everyday traffic. Walking through the city or renting a scooter through the narrow alleyways are the best ways to experience this immaculate city.

Booking a tour is another fun option to keep your technology temptations at bay. Let the tour guide do the work and enjoy all there is to see in one of Italy’s main attractions.

1- Prague, Czech Republic – Score of 7.96

Coming in ranked #1 is the amazing city of Prague. The capital of the Czech Republic measured high scores across all the metrics InsureMyTrip used.

The main reason Prague ranks high is the lack of traffic. The average travel time is approximately 16 minutes.

Prague is an excellent city for walking to take in the unique architecture and lovely streets.

With the lack of traffic and plenty of activities, it’s no guessing game to see why this amazing European city is the best place for a digital detox.

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May 9, 2023
Top 3 Worst U.S. Airports for Delays and Cancellations This Month

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We all know that sinking feeling. You hear your flight number in the dreaded delay announcement over the PA system – or worse, a cancellation. You’re going to miss your connection to sunny paradise.

It’s a stressful, time-sucking start to what was supposed to be a relaxing summer holiday.

As the summer travel season kicks off, travelers are getting nervous about the trademark peak crowds and cancellations at airports all over the world.

Since there’s nothing to be done about severe weather events or airline-issued cancellations, what can anyone do to ensure their trip runs as smoothly as possible?

Travelers can strategically avoid traveling through the worst U.S. airports for delays and cancellations in May.

Dallas Fort Worth (DFW)

Late last year, DFW was named the best large airport in North America by Airports Council International. But lately, it’s been causing serious travel headaches for passengers.

Earlier this spring, 28.5% of flights were significantly delayed or canceled, with many travelers experiencing missed connections and overnight stays for rebooked flights. This represents a significant increase from last year’s 22.8% disruption rate.

While flight cancellations have come down from 4.6% to 1.3% over the past three months, delays and missed connections remain a serious problem.

A significant portion of DFW delays can’t be predicted or resolved. Weather in this region is notoriously unpredictable, from unforeseen winter heat waves to sudden April hail storms.

May also sits in the middle of peak tornado time for the North Texas region, with 26 tornadoes so far this season. The 2023 tornado season is predicted to be especially active. Travelers can expect severe weather related disruptions out of Dallas this month and next.

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Tomasz Pawliszyn, CEO of air travel support service AirHelp, confirmed in a recent comment that DFW delays are a combination of severe weather and staffing problems.

While DFW airport has been catching up with hiring this year after almost two years of severe understaffing issues, DFW-based airlines are still behind the curve.

Since last year, both Southwest and American Airlines have been dealing with pilot shortages, union negotiations, and picketing at DFW.

Last week, pilots for the DFW-based American Airlines voted to authorize a strike, which could create walkout-related delays for DFW passengers in the coming weeks or months.

Pilot shortages have forced some route closures between Dallas and other US cities earlier this year. On top of it all, American recently slashed over 5,000 DFW flights from its summer schedule.

These cuts have put increased pressure on the remaining American routes, as well as other DFW airlines picking up American’s slack to meet passengers’ high demand for summer travel.

John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Many travelers look to New York for affordable international flights to Europe and Asia. However, the cost is not worth the cancellation risk this summer.

Flight Aware ranks JFK among the airports with the highest cancellation rates in April, a trend that is likely to continue into May.

The FAA urges travelers to prepare for disruptions out of New York, predicting a 45% increase in cancellation rates from east coast airports like JFK this summer.

Staffing struggles are one of the only remaining holdovers from the pandemic in US airports. In New York, a shortage of air traffic controllers will continue to drive delays for flights taking off or landing in NYC, including those connecting to popular international destinations this summer.

New York’s air traffic controller shortage is exacerbated by both lacks of maintenance staff and persistent pilot scarcity.

San Francisco International (SFO)

Passengers can expect delays at SFO throughout May due to ongoing runway repairs.

A spokesperson for SFO commented last week: “This is expected to result in slightly longer taxi times for departing aircraft to reach the open runways,” Yakel said.

While delays related to runway repairs are only ranging from 15-60 minutes for now, regional weather conditions like heavy winds and fog continue to cause longer delays, cancellations, and even ground stops out of San Francisco International this season.

Nearly a quarter of flights out of SFO are experiencing significant delays, while 1% of SFO flights have been canceled. In the last week of April, there were 94 cancellations.

We can expect these disruption patterns to continue this month out of San Francisco, affecting regional travel to US, Canada, and Mexico, as well as international routes to Asia.

Travelers can avoid these top three U.S. airports for delays and cancellations this month. Instead, they can opt for direct flights out of low-disruption airports, and long delay-proof layovers in the best airports in the U.S. for stopovers.

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May 8, 2023
These Are The Top 5 Cheapest Mediterranean Destinations For Summer 2023

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Summer is fast approaching, and now that all pandemic regulations have been lifted, Mediterranean Europe will be hosting a record number of guests.

The only major downside other than crowding? In this economy, price surges are also expected.

If you’re heading to the likes of Spain, France, Italy, or Croatia over the peak season, you’re unlikely to benefit from the same attractive fares other travelers traveling off-path to the increasingly trendy Black Sea Coast will, but there are still some reasonable deals to be found in the Western Med.

Here are the top 5 cheapest Mediterranean destinations for summer 2023, as compiled by Bounce:

5. Alicante

Budget Beach Break Score: 5.58/10

Located on Spain’s ‘Costa Blanca’, Alicante is an exciting coastal destination that in recent years has been highly sought-after by young travelers due to its modern development zones and busy nightlife, which set it apart from other historical, more traditional Spanish cities.

Besides being one of the best sunny getaways in the Mediterranean, with temperatures averaging 78 degrees in summer and six beaches per 100 km², it is one of the least expensive.

A beer and a meal at a cheap restaurant will cost you a mere USD $16, while overnight hotel fares average USD $162.

4. Athens

Budget Beach Break Score: 5.58/10

A capital that’s accumulated millennia upon millennia of heritage and a fascinating History, Athens is most easily recognized for the Parthenon temple, which sits atop its acropolis, and the adjacent Plaka district, a picturesque maze of cobblestone alleyways packed with cafes and souvenir shops.

It is also within driving distance of numerous beaches straddling the Med, up to 18 per 100 km².

Nightly fares are an estimated USD $243, but the cheap dining, totaling USD $13 on average, and affordable transport links make up for the costlier accommodation prices.

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3. Bodrum, Turkiye

Budget Beach Break Score: 6.67/10

Bodrum, in the Anatolian Peninsula of Turkiye, is one of the best budget destinations in the East Mediterranean, with meals costing USD $5 on average, and hotel overnights selling for around USD $88 in the peak month of August.

Additionally, Bodrum has one beach per 100 km², on top of receiving 1,300 annual Google searches for beach vacations. Some of the main attractions include the 15h century Bodrum Castle, the Greek ruins of the ancient city of Halicarnassus, and the white-sand Akyarlar Beach.

2. Valencia

Budget Beach Break Score: 7.37/10

Named the best destination for expats worldwide, Valencia is an up-and-coming destination in Southern Spain distinguished for an enviable selection of museums, sandy beaches, and ancient heritage, having been founded as a Roman colony as early as 138 BC.

It totals 3,400 annual Google clicks, and that should come as no surprise, taking into account its affordability and amazing weather: meals in casual restaurants in downtown Valencia cost roughly USD USD $13, and the city enjoys over 300 days of sun per year.

1. Benidorm

Budget Beach Break Score: 7.76/10

It seems Spain is a leader in budget beach breaks, tallying yet another entry on this list, and the top-rated destination at that: Benidorm.

Whether it’s the Aqualandia water park, the flavorful cuisine, or the numerous beaches lining the wider White Coast, it is a favorite among youngsters and families alike.

Temperatures reach a pleasant 77 degrees on average in summer, while the price of food and accommodation is perhaps the lowest in Spain. A double room for one night in August costs only USD $141; as for a meal and a beer at non-expensive restaurants, USD $14.

The full Bounce list mentions beach destinations further away, such as Porto, in Portugal, one of the trendiest city breaks in Europe right now, and Faro, also in Portugal, but as this country does not straddle the Mediterranean coast, bounded by the Atlantic instead, it was not included here.

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May 7, 2023