Tag: Travelers

8 Popular Tourist Destinations That Require A Visa For All American Travelers

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American travelers do not need a visa to travel to most countries around the world.

Having a U.S. passport means that American travelers can breeze right into many international destinations without having to worry about applying for and paying for a visa.

However, there are a handful of destinations that do require visas for American travelers.

Although this is not meant to be an exhaustive list (always check a country’s entry requirements independently before you travel), these are some of the most popular tourist destinations around the world that require a visa for American travelers.

Some countries on this list require simple visas with a quick online application process, while others are more drawn out and require a visit to the country’s embassy or consulate.

1. Brazil

Beginning October 1, Brazil will require a visa for American travelers.

In 2019, the visa requirement was removed in an effort to boost tourism, but unfortunately, it is now returning. However, it’s expected that an electronic visa application will be introduced to simplify the process rather than requiring travelers to visit a Brazilian embassy or consulate.

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2. Australia

Many Americans don’t realize that a visa is needed to travel to Australia.

It’s called the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), and you must apply for it online in advance of your trip. The cost is $20 AUD (approximately $13 USD.)

3. Egypt

Egypt is a country that has been growing in popularity lately.

However, if you want to see the ancient pyramids of Egypt, ride a camel in the desert, or journey down the Nile, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa first.

The Egyptian tourist visa should be applied for online at least a week in advance of your trip, and the cost is $25 USD.

4. Bolivia

Bolivia is an underrated destination in South America perfect for adventurous travelers, but American travelers do need a visa to enter.

Although it’s possible to apply for a visa on arrival into the country, it’s not recommended due to how much material is needed for the application.

It’s better to apply in advance at any Bolivian embassy or consulate to make sure you get the visa. The cost is $160 USD.

5. India

Another country that requires a visa for American travelers is India.

India offers an online visa application that you should apply for at least one week in advance of your trip. The Indian tourist visa costs $25 USD.

6. Kenya

If you’re dreaming of going on a safari and spotting wildlife in Kenya, you’ll need to secure a visa first. Kenya requires American travelers to apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa, which encompasses the countries of Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Alternatively, you can apply for a single-entry visa just for Kenya.

The cost for an East Africa Tourist Visa is $100 USD, and the cost for a Kenyan visa is $51 USD. Both offer online visa applications.

7. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a fascinating destination that packs a lot of unique sights and culture into a small island in the Indian Ocean.

American travelers hoping to explore Sri Lanka will need to obtain a visa first, though. The current cost for an electronic visa is $35 USD.

8. Turkey

Turkey is a destination that’s booming in popularity among international travelers lately. However, Americans do need a visa in order to visit.

The online visa should be applied for at least a few days in advance of your trip, and the cost is $50 USD.

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June 9, 2023
These Are The Top 4 UK Destinations That American Travelers Love Most

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When it comes to Europe there are plenty options to visit, but Americans have a great interest in the United Kingdom.

Besides the English language advantage, this European region has amazing cities with multiple attractions and rich culture that travelers enjoy exploring.

According to recent data shared by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), 4.56 million U.S. citizens visited the United Kingdom in 2022 leading the ranking as the most popular tourists and surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

The report also highlighted the preferred destinations for foreign visitors last year and included trendy destinations for Americans.

These are the top 4 destinations in the United Kingdom:

1) London

London is still the star in the United Kingdom, but travelers are beginning to explore other destinations, and tourism in this city hasn’t yet surpassed pre-pandemic levels according to the official information.

However, Americans adore this fascinating city. Walking by Buckingham Palace, admiring the stunning panoramic views from the London Eye, visiting amazing museums, seeing the London Bridge in action, riding a boat on the River Thames, and getting a selfie next to the Big Ben remain on American traveler’s bucket list when visiting the U.K.

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Since summer is expected to be very busy this summer, travelers are opting for off-the-beaten-path activities in London like strolling through Little Venice, visiting Richmond, and going for a picnic on Primrose Hill.

2) Edinburgh

Yes, Americans are falling in love with Scotland and Edinburgh is the protagonist! According to recent data, 75% of U.S. visitors include this city as their main destination when visiting this country.

And Edinburgh has so much to offer! Many travelers are amazed by the impressive architecture and interesting history. Edinburgh Castle is just one example. Walking along the fascinating Royal Mile and comparing the Old Town and the New Town are other ways to truly experience this city.

There are also multiple festivals and unique experiences—like climbing Arthur’s seat— that make visitors want to come back. This summer great events take place here, like the Edinburgh international festival, and travelers have great opportunities to create amazing memories.

3) Manchester

This city is also locals’ favorite destination. A new report revealed that Europeans’ favorite destination in 2023 is Manchester.

American travelers visiting Manchester this summer will get to enjoy the city next to locals and get the most out of its culture and unique ambiance.

From music lovers to sports lovers to families, Manchester has great activities for all.

Sportif travelers usually add Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford to their must-visit list. The home of European football in the United Kingdom has the best museums, bars, tours, and experiences for soccer fans.

Music lovers try to attend concerts at the impressive venue O2 Ritz Manchester or the Manchester Arena. This summer, the  Manchester Jazz Festival , and the Manchester International Festival are expected to offer the most extraordinary days for melomaniacs.

And, of course, all kinds of travelers can have a great time in this city with its special architecture, museums, parks, and lovely neighborhoods.

4) Birmingham

Also in England, Birmingham has been gaining popularity among foreign visitors as it has been charming them with its amazing canals, historic buildings, and modern structures.

Birmingham has more miles of canals than Venice—not more canals, as it has been falsely spread— built in the 1700s and 1800s, and now visitors can take a fun boat tour or just walk along its paths and enjoy its beautiful views.

Its fascinating industrial history and spectacular museums can take travelers through important historic events and enrich the travel experience. There are also special attractions like a fun chocolate day at Cadbury World, one of the families’ top attractions in the UK.

After Birmingham, other cities like Liverpool, Glasgow, Bristol, Cambridge, Oxford, and Brighton and Hove also made it into the top ten. While most foreign travelers remain in England (82%) others also enjoy exploring Scotland and Wales for leisure during their vacations.

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June 6, 2023
TSA Warns Travelers Of Security Delays At Hawaii Airports This Summer

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If you’re planning to travel to Hawaii this summer then you’ll be in good company. The number of travelers visiting Hawaii this year is expected to exceed 2019 pre-pandemic levels.

Hawaii is a notoriously popular vacation destination and for good reason. Offering sun, sea, sand, and amazing sites, there’s no better place to relax and unwind.

But when a destination is popular, that inevitably means that you will encounter crowds during your trip. Particularly at the airport.

Anticipating high passenger volumes, The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is offering some key advice to travelers departing from Hawaii’s airports this summer, to make your journey go as smoothly as possible.

Here’s everything you need to know:

Leave Plenty of Time For Security

When airports are busy, it takes more time for TSA to process travelers efficiently.

The TSA are advising that, during peak travel periods, there may be times when the number of passengers who need to be screened is greater than the capacity of the security screening checkpoint.

In these circumstances, you may be asked to wait upwards of 30 minutes before you are invited to pass through the security screening checkpoint.

To avoid missing your flight, therefore, you should arrive at the airport earlier than you might normally, leaving plenty of time to pass through security.

This will be easier if you plan ahead: Think about how you will get to the airport, know your flight information, and be ready for each step of the airport travel process.

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Think About When You Travel

The busiest times at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) checkpoints are between 10 am and 2 pm, and then again between 5 pm and 8 pm.

If you are keen to avoid the queues and the crowds then try to plan your flight so that you travel outside of these times.

As an added benefit, very early morning and late-night flights tend to be a little cheaper than their peak-time counterparts.

You might also wish to consider flying out of your chosen Hawaii airport on either a Tuesday or a Wednesday. This is because the busiest days to travel both locally and nationally are Thursday, Friday, Sunday, and Monday.

Register For TSA PreCheck

If you don’t want to wait around in the regular security check line, you might consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck.

This is a program that speeds up the airport security checkpoint screening process by allowing travelers to keep on their shoes, belt, and light outerwear. They can also keep their laptop and travel-sized liquids in their carry-on bag.

More than 15 million Americans are enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program and children up to the age of 17 can use the TSA PreCheck lane when they are traveling with a parent or guardian who is registered to the scheme.

Visit www.tsa.gov/precheck to start enrolment into the program.

If you are already registered and eligible to use TSA PreCheck then make sure that you know your Known Traveler Number (KNT) and that your airline profile is up-to-date with this information.

You can then pass through the TSA PreCheck lane at the airport security checkpoint. TSA agents aim to process travelers using this lane within 5 minutes.

Be Prepared

If you’ve passed through airport security before then you’ll already know the drill: remove your shoes and belt, take your electronics and liquids from your bag, and empty your pockets.

Don’t wait until you’re at the front of the queue to start this process: be prepared before you enter the queue so that you can get through as quickly as possible.

If you’re unsure about what you can and can’t take through security in your carry-on, advice from the TSA is that you download the MyTSA app and use the ‘What Can I Bring?’ feature to assist with your packing.

If you need real-time assistance then @AskTSA is available on Twitter for advice.

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June 5, 2023
6 Reasons American Travelers Are Falling In Love With Scotland

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American travelers are always dreaming of a European getaway, but the question always seems to be, “Where should I go?”.

There are so many amazing European places, from thriving major cities to charming small towns that fly under the radar.

But, American travelers may have found the next hotspot for a great escape across the pond.

According to Private Tours Scotland, there has been over a 70% increase in U.S. tourists in the past couple of years.

Scotland is a gorgeous nation within the U.K.

While many vacationers opt for London, there is so much more the U.K. has to offer. As such, Americans are falling in love with Scotland!

Here are 6 reasons why:

Scottish Heritage And Its Unique Cultural Influence

Given its reasonably close proximity to mainland North America, it’s not uncommon to find Americans with Scottish roots. Many wanting to explore their past go to Scotland to trace down their bloodline.

Fans of Braveheart and Outlander, for example, have spiked the interest of U.S. tourists in checking out Scotland’s unique culture.

Scottish locals are very welcoming to tourists and have embraced the influx of American visitors.

Scotland offers a wide variety of attractions that can appeal to anyone, such as whiskey tours through famed distilleries and world-class golf courses, such as St. Andrews, that date back centuries.

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The Capital City Of Edinburgh

Private Tours Scotland claims almost 75% of American travelers have Edinburgh at the top of their list when visiting Scotland.

This historical city has breathtaking architecture, including amazing castles you can visit. The cobblestone streets are a great way to immerse yourself as this is a true cultural hub of the U.K.

The Oxford Bar is a must-stop on your travels as it’s so historic and stuck in time it seems like a myth! Open since 1826, this is a great place to get a true taste of Scotland with a local ale.

Many U.S. tourists find themselves loving the Royal Mile, full of shops and local eateries. There are many festivals that take place in Edinburgh, but perhaps nothing more well-known than the Edinburgh Festival each summer.

The Gateway To The Highlands

Inverness is a top destination for U.S. travelers coming to Scotland. In fact, 64% of them include it on their itinerary.

The Highlands are a truly majestic sight to see. Inverness is a city located on the Northeastern coast and known as The Gateway To The Highlands to many.

This region offers a truly stunning landscape, and that’s the main draw to Americans, other than the fact you just might get a glimpse of the infamous Loch Ness Monster.

Inverness also has a very charming Old Town city center and the popular Culloden Battlefield to visit too.

Scotland’s Largest City – Glasgow

Even though Glasgow is larger than Edinburgh, it hasn’t been quite as popular when comparing the two cities.

But that doesn’t mean Glasgow isn’t appealing! Quite the opposite, actually. This major city is the artsy brother to Edinburgh, with a thriving music scene and top-notch museums and art galleries.

Many love to wander the streets and admire the unique Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture throughout the city.

Lovely Loch Lamond

This scenic beauty can be found in the Trossachs National Park. Americans flock here to take in gorgeous landscapes of rolling hills and mountains.

Visitors can hop on a cruise on the loch (the Scottish term for lake) for an even better experience taking in the jaw-dropping scenery.

This area is scattered with charming towns and villages ready to be explored. Some of the more popular ones tourists visit are Tarbet, Balloch, and Luss.

Isle Of Sky

The Isle of Sky is a very popular place among U.S. tourists, with over 60% making a stop on the island.

Another magical destination with serene landscapes of green hills and striking rock formations, such as Old Man of Storr.

Skye offers medieval castles open to visit and enchanting villages, such as Dunvegan and Portree, for a glimpse of the slower pace of Scottish life.

Lastly, Americans make the Fairy Pools a priority when in Skye. It’s free to enter and a perfect way to enjoy this stunning region of the world surrounded by waterfalls and the Cuillin Mountains.

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May 27, 2023
These Are Three Ways Budget Travelers Are Getting Their Accommodation For Free

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As demand for travel continues to increase, the cost of hotels and other accommodations is rising sharply. This is bad news for budget travelers looking to stretch their dollar as far as possible.

Demand for budget accommodation in the U.S. is increasing. In April of this year, there was an 18% increase in demand for budget and economy short-term rental options.

But with a little innovation and out-of-the-box thinking, it is possible to travel the world, whether for leisure or as a digital nomad, without spending a penny on hotels.

Travelers are becoming increasingly creative in how they save money to continue funding their adventures.

Here are three ways that budget travelers can secure accommodation for free:

House Sitting

Some homeowners don’t like leaving their property vacant when they take their vacations. Second homeowners are also aware of the risks posed by leaving their property empty for an extended period of time.

Enter the house sitter: someone who stays in the property, ensuring that the property looks occupied by turning the lights on occasionally and generally using the home.

Some house sitters are also asked to do gentle chores, such as ensuring that plants are watered or light cleaning.

In exchange, you can stay somewhere new without paying a penny for a hotel. This is a particularly attractive proposition in big cities like New York or Tokyo, where accommodation costs can be ridiculously expensive.

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While the cost of your accommodation is free, you may have to pay a fee to register and join a house-sitting website. You are advised to do this rather than seek house-sitting opportunities independently, as you will be better protected from a personal safety perspective.

There are loads of house-sitting websites available. The best of these is the Paris-based website Nomador, which has a huge international community. A three-month membership to the site costs $79, but you can sign up for free to decide if housesitting is the right option for you.

Pet Sitting

If you enjoy spending time with animals then pet sitting in exchange for accommodation is another great way to travel the world for free.

Just like house sitting, you are staying in someone else’s home. But instead of focusing on looking after their property, your focus would be on looking after their pets.

Walking dogs, changing litter trays, and of course, ensuring the pets are fed and watered would be your main requirements. Outside of these chores, you would be free to spend your time exploring your vacation destination.

Demand for pet sitters is high because the cost of animal care can be prohibitively expensive for many pet owners. Many more would simply prefer that their beloved pets stay at home, rather than be caged in a cattery or kennel.

It is a win-win situation for animal-loving budget travelers.

UK-based TrustedHousesitters is one of the biggest pet-sitting websites in the world and charges its members an annual membership fee of $169. A small price to pay for unlimited access to free accommodation.

Home Exchanges

If you want to travel without the work of chores or dog sitting then you could also consider exchanging your own home with someone else. Think ‘The Holiday’, but without Cameron Diaz and Jude Law!

The home exchange concept is not new, but it is growing in popularity as economic restrictions force some travelers to look outside the box for affordable accommodation.

You can exchange your own house or apartment with someone else, giving you the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world.

This means that your home won’t be left empty while you’re traveling, which can be hugely beneficial, but it does mean that you’ll have to be happy with someone else staying in and using your home.

There are a huge number of home exchange websites available to choose from.

One example is Intervac Home Exchange. With this site, no money switches hands between the exchangers, so you can get free accommodation anywhere on earth. You can try the site with a free 21-day trial, after which the annual membership fee is $115.

U.S.-based company HomeExchange is also worth exploring. They have seen their membership levels increase by 77% already this year, meaning that there are more exchange properties than ever available.

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May 27, 2023
The 5 European Destinations U.S. Travelers Are Visiting To Avoid American Crowds

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Americans are flying to Europe in droves now that travel curbs have been lifted and the continent is again allowing unrestricted tourism, and the one thing they have in common?

According to the Wall Street Journal, instead of the holiday classics, namely Paris, London, Rome, or Barcelona, they’re heading to lesser-known destinations other U.S. nationals, especially first-time visitors to Europe, do not visit.

Europe is being overrun by tourists once more, with Greece going as far as urging Americans to explore off-path destinations instead of the overcrowded Cyclades or Corfu and Venice mulling over introducing a ticketing system to keep day-trippers out.

Luckily, these five European countries receive far fewer tourists, and your chances of running into obnoxious, uneducated fellow citizens with their rude manners and inappropriate behavior are significantly reduced:

Georgia

Located at the Easternmost edge of Europe, where the continental border with Asia is still hotly disputed, Georgia is a tiny Caucasian nation boasting sweeping natural vistas, alpine peaks that will make you feel as if you’re in Switzerland, and Black Sea beaches that rival the Mediterranean in beauty.

More importantly: as it is the most remote out of any destination featured here, it does not rank high on the average American’s list of places to go.

Unless, of course, geography isn’t their forte, and they’re thinking Georgia the U.S. state.

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Whether you’re visiting in summer or early fall, you should definitely take your time exploring Tbilisi, the intriguing capital, where medieval landmarks and Soviet architecture exist side by side.

Batumi, a bustling coastal city and casino hotspot, and Kakheti, Georgia’s little Tuscany and a wine region dotted with centuries-old vineyards, are not to be missed as well.

In case you haven’t heard, wine may well be an 8,000-year-old Georgian creation.

Bulgaria

Perhaps your best bet for a budget European summer, Bulgaria is an Eastern Balkan nation best known for its Black Sea Coast, with an endless stretch of sand interspersed with quaint historical villages and bustling port cities, and medieval heritage.

Bulgaria’s number one beach destination, the aptly-titled Sunny Beach, is an up-and-coming resort town lapped by an azure ocean, offering low-cost vacation deals and enjoying long hours of sunshine and balmy temperatures over summer.

Traveling down the Bulgarian coast, you should pay Sozopol and Nessebar a visit, the former a medieval fortified town, and the latter an ancient Greco-Roman settlement sitting on a manmade peninsula, a short 4km from the resort zone in Sunny Beach.

Packed with UNESCO-listed monuments and with numerous cobblestoned streets to be explored, it is the Black Sea’s most emblematic postcard. The airports in Burgas (BOJ) and Varna (VAR) are the main gateways to the province.

Cyprus

A paradisaical island torn between its Turkish and Greek roots and the birthplace of the Greek Goddess Aphrodite, at least according to Greek mythology, Cyprus is the next trendy summer hotspot for American travelers – except they don’t know it yet.

The South-Easternmost European nation, it is a tried-and-true sunny getaway among Europeans, who flock to its seaside resorts every July for some of that laid-back Mediterranean living, but surprisingly, it is largely ignored by sunseekers from across the pond.

U.S. nationals rank nowhere in Cyprus’ Top 10 foreign visitors by nationality, as many will either perpetuate a common misconception that it is a part of Greece, or they may not even be aware it exists in the first place, much to the delight of their anti-American American counterparts.

Cyprus’ best tourist destinations are Limassol, dubbed the ‘Mini Dubai’, with towering skyscrapers and a modernized marina, Paphos, on the West coast, and Cape Greco, the island’s easternmost point and the gateway to the resort towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras.

Albania

Albania is currently Eastern Europe’s fastest-growing summer destination. Having gone viral on TikTok, where its unspoiled Adriatic beaches and turquoise waters amass millions of views daily, it is far from being a secret spot waiting to be discovered.

At the same time, only an insignificant minority of Albania’s faithful returning visitors hail from the States. Although beach areas like Vlorë, Sarandë, and Ksamil are often brimming with Europeans over summer, American accents are usually nowhere to be heard.

Other than gorgeous beaches, Albania’s rugged nature, its Ottoman-structured cities, fairytale castles, archaeological complexes dating back millennia, and the flavorful Albanian cuisine add to the country’s inherent Balkan charm.

If you’re an American Digital Nomad, you’ll be pleased to know Albania grants you a one-year stay visa-free.

On top of that, it has no entry requirements whatsoever, as long as you carry a valid American passport that is not due to expire soon.

Serbia

The last and only country on this list not to straddle a coastline, Serbia finds itself at the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, with nature so diverse and a History so fascinating it makes you ponder whether traditional beach breaks are overrated.

Once the capital of the defunct communist state of Yugoslavia, the city of Belgrade houses important architectural elements from that period and an enviable collection of medieval, Orthodox relics set to attract museumgoers.

Belgrade’s social scene is also hard to match: Knez Mihailova, the busy, pedestrianized main street, overflows with revelers at sundown on their way to the nearest, edgy nightclub.

As Serbia’s second-largest city, Novi Sad is yet another gem flying under the American radar.

A certified Cultural Capital, it sits on the shores of the Danube River, which flows through its traditional Central European cityscape.

Other noteworthy attractions in Serbia include the imposing Golubac Fortress, near the border with Romania, and the vast Fruška Gora National Park.

Interestingly, Serbia is the only country on this list to host nonstop flights from the United States, with regular service to Belgrade operated by AirSerbia, the national flag carrier, from Chicago-O’Hare and New York-JFK with AirSerbia.

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May 24, 2023
Why Travelers Can Expect More Turbulence On Future Flights
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Turbulence: the leading cause of spilled ginger ale and awkward armrest grabs for travelers everywhere.

We all know that sudden stomach-dropping panic when your plane starts getting tossed around like a rag doll. It can feel absolutely terrifying.

The good news: Turbulence is mostly all bark and no bite. While the stress can be high, the risk of injury to passengers is low. Travelers can also easily prevent the most serious problems.

The bad news: Turbulence is increasing and will only get worse from here.

What is Turbulence?

Turbulence is a weather phenomenon that causes a plane to shake, jolt, or move in an irregular way.

Different types of turbulence are caused by wind from mountains and irregular terrain, by warm weather unevenly heating the Earth’s surface, and by the friction of cold and warm fronts.

Clear air turbulence is a specific type of turbulence caused by changes in the direction of air streams or invisible rivers of air moving a few miles above the Earth’s surface. This effect is known as wind shear.

Clear air turbulence happens in cloudless clear skies at higher altitudes. Since there are no visible warning signs, it’s the leading cause of unexpected rough skies and roller coaster rides for passengers.

Why Are Flights Getting Bumpier?

There has been a 15% increase in clear air turbulence over the past few decades, according to Dr. Paul Williams, a professor of atmospheric science at the University of Reading.

“At higher altitudes where planes fly, climate change is altering temperature patterns, which creates more wind shear,” he recently told the Wall Street Journal. Other studies confirm that warmer global temperatures in Earth’s upper atmosphere are creating serious wind shear problems at mid-latitudes.

In other words, the air where planes fly is getting warmer, changing the path of jet streams and creating more of the invisible wind shear that can really toss a plane around.

Dr. Williams’ meteorological model predicts that clear air turbulence in the mid-Northern Hemisphere will more than double over the next few decades.

This means popular international US routes like New York to Europe and California to Asia (which mostly fly through the high altitude mid-Northern Hemisphere) can expect bumpier rides.

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Travelers Shouldn’t Worry

While clear air turbulence can knock your airplane up or down rather suddenly, it will likely end as quickly as it started.

This type of turbulence doesn’t usually last for more than a few thousand feet. Your pilot can maneuver the plane up or down just a bit to get away from the rough skies.

While severe turbulence is on the rise, it’s still nowhere near common. The risk of serious turbulence on a flight is just a few tenths of a percent. Passengers are more likely to experience moderate (1%) or light turbulence (3%).

Injuries from severe turbulence are also incredibly rare.

On average, less than three passengers per year have been seriously injured by turbulence since 2009, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. (Most of the minimal number of these injuries are sustained by unrestrained flight crew.)

All things considered, travelers are actually much more likely to be upgraded to first-class than to be significantly affected by turbulence.

Turbulence detection tools are constantly improving to help pilots predict the unpredictable. For example, United and American Airlines now use a program called SkyPath, which detects vibrations from pilots’ iPads and reports them to other planes nearby in real-time.

How To Prepare For Turbulence

There are plenty of steps travelers can take to easily prepare for turbulence and prevent any serious impact.
- Book flights for earlier in the day with seats towards the front of the plane, 21-year flight attendant and Cruising Altitude author Heather Poole recently advised National Geographic.
- Wear your seatbelt, and not just when the fasten seatbelt sign is on. This applies to adults and children. While airlines don’t require small children to have their own seat, the FAA recommends using a child safety seat for children under 2. This way, everyone will avoid hitting their head on the overhead bins or knocking into the tray table in front of them.
- Keep small items tucked away. Make sure cell phones, water bottles, and other small items that could turn into projectiles are tied down or put away.
- Learn more about the sky. The trickiest parts of turbulence are surprise and helplessness. Travelers can feel more comfortable experiencing turbulence when they know where it’s coming from and remember the strong likelihood that they’ll be just fine.
- Don’t panic. While turbulence can feel scary, it’s more likely to rattle your mind than hurt your body. Screaming, ringing the call button, passing babies across the aisle, or trying to grab your belongings will only make the situation worse. Stay calm and wait for the rough patch to pass.
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May 15, 2023
This Off The Beaten Path European Country Is One Of The Safest For Solo Female Travelers
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The often overlooked country of Slovenia lies in the shadow of three neighboring European fan favorites: Croatia, Austria, and Italy.

While its popular neighbors rake in the tourists, Slovenia remains off the beaten path, offering the most scenic and affordable stay in central Europe.

From the cobblestone streets of Ljubljana to the sapphire waters at Lake Bled, Slovenia feels like a fantastical dream.

Featuring crystal-clear alpine lakes, breathtaking mountains, and charming medieval cities, it’s no wonder that Slovenia was chosen as the filming location for the mythical kingdom of Narnia.

What does remain a wonder is why Slovenia isn’t yet the most popular destination for solo female travelers.

For better or for worse, when we talk about solo female travel, the first question is always about safety. Luckily, Slovenia is one of the safest destinations in the world for solo female travelers.

7th Safest Country In The World

Slovenia is one of the top seven safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. Slovenia even ranks above super-secure Singapore and Scandinavian favorites like Norway and Finland.

Other recent rankings list Slovenia as one of the top three safest travel destinations in the world.

Most notably, Slovenia leads the Central and Eastern European regions in Women’s Peace and Security.

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Top Pick for Solo Female Travelers

According to a recent BBC report, Slovenia is the best destination for women looking for a safe solo trip.

BBC based their rankings on:
- Georgetown University’s Women’s Peace And Security Index (WPS)
- World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap report and the Institute for Economics and Peace Global Peace Index (PGP),
- Interviews with women who traveled solo to the top-ranked countries
Solo female travelers who recently visited Slovenia explained to the BBC that they never felt unsafe or truly alone, whether getting lost in Ljubljana’s picturesque streets at midnight or hiking sunny alpine trails.

85% of Slovenian women feel safe walking alone at night. Slovenia also has one of the lowest rates of intimate partner violence in Europe.

Progressive Social Attitudes

Women traveling in Slovenia can expect a progressive environment, free from any judgment of their choice to travel alone or to pursue adventurous activities while on their trip.

In general, Slovenian society is quite gender equal. There is next to no discrimination against women working paid jobs, with 52% of Slovenian women employed in the workforce (equal to U.S. rates in 2021).

Slovenia’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs even recently announced a “feminist foreign policy strategy” focusing on gender equality initiatives and empowerment across Europe.

While no country is without room for improvement when it comes to structural sexism, it’s safe to say that Slovenia is a country where solo female travelers are welcome and respected.

Positive Experiences

Women who have taken solo trips to Slovenia are quick to share their positive experiences with safety on social media and travel blogs.

Travel Ladies, an app that connects solo female travelers and locals to share destination information such as safety, gives Slovenia a 5-star safety rating based on real women’s solo adventures.

Over 80% of the experience reviews for Slovenia on Travel Ladies specifically mention feeling extremely safe.

Solo traveler Melissa shared that she felt very safe on her recent trip to Slovenia’s capital city Ljubljana. “Throughout my trip, I had no worries or questioned my safety,” she writes. “Safety is my top concern, and I felt protected and in my comfort zone.”

Full-time traveler Katie’s experience alone in the country was similarly carefree. “I arrived in Ljubljana well past midnight in the middle of a massive rain storm,” she explains. “Since the weather was so horrible, there was no one out on the streets, and I felt completely safe walking to the hostel… I never felt in danger.”

As the 7th safest country in the world and a top-rated pick for women, Slovenia has so much to offer on your next carefree solo trip to Europe.

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May 14, 2023
Ho Chi Minh City: 7 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting
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Ho Chi Minh City in the south of Vietnam is the nation’s economic capital and a dizzying whirlwind of activity. Formerly known as Saigon, the sprawling city balances Vietnamese tradition with a modern flair.

Wandering the streets, you’ll find ancient pagodas mixed amongst skyscrapers and high-end shops next to mouth-watering street food stalls.

Because the city was under French rule for over 60 years, there is also a distinctly French flair to the city found in its architecture, streets, and even its cuisine.

But before setting off to Ho Chi Minh City, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling to Ho Chi Minh City, including:
- What are the costs for travelers?
- Things to know about culture and etiquette
- What are the top attractions?
- How safe is it?
- Local food and drinks
- How good is the WiFi?
- How long can you stay?
Ready? Here are the top 7 things you need to know before visiting Ho Chi Minh City:

Did you know… Ho Chi Minh City was formerly called Saigon, although many still refer to it as so. The official name change came in 1975 when the Northern Vietnamese Army gained control of the city, bringing an end to the Vietnam War. The city is named after Ho Chi Minh, the 20th-century Vietnamese revolutionary who led the fight for the nation’s independence.

1) Ho Chi Minh City Affordability

Rating: 5 out of 5.

The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong or VND. The current exchange rate is

₫100,000 VND = $4.29 USD, and $1 USD = ₫23,338 VND.

Here are the average costs for travelers in USD:

Accommodation

There is a wide range of accommodations available to suit any budget or travel style in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Average hotel price: One night at a 3-star hotel typically costs around $40, or around $85 for a 4-star hotel.
- Luxury 5-star hotels: Luxury 4-star hotels average $150 per night, and there are plenty of options, especially if you want to splurge. For instance, the La Vela Saigon Hotel has gorgeous suites starting at $540 per night.
- If you’re on a budget: Ho Chi Minh City is a backpacker’s paradise, with countless options for cheap hostels. A bed in a dorm at a well-rated hostel costs between $5-$7 per night, while a private ensuite room averages about $20 per night. Hostels typically provide free breakfast and WiFi.
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Food

Not only is the food in Ho Chi Minh City incredibly delicious, there are plenty of affordable options.
- A 3-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for two costs around $25.
- For a cheap meal at an inexpensive restaurant or from a street food vendor, expect to pay around $2.
- A beer costs between $1-$2, while a cappuccino is about $2.
Transportation
- Public transportation in Ho Chi Minh City is dominated by a massive bus network that can take visitors to any of the top tourist destinations. Fare is based on distance traveled and ranges between $0.15 – $0.50 per journey. It is incredibly cheap, but just know it can also be a painfully slow way to get around.
- Taxi fares start at$0.50and cost an additional $1 per mile traveled. Motorbike taxis are also common and a short trip typically costs around $1.50 for a short trip. Ho Chi Minh City’s preferred rideshare service is called Grab, and it works the same way as Uber. Rates are usually cheaper than taxis.
- Traveling by cyclo is also an option. Cyclos are three-wheeled bike taxis that are slow-moving and often have to avoid certain streets where they are prohibited. An hour-long ride typically costs around $7 – just be sure to negotiate the price before you take off.
- Experienced bikers can choose to cycle the city. Bike rentals are available for about $5.50 per day, just beware that the traffic is incredibly chaotic, so if you choose to bike be sure to ride with caution.
2) Culture And Etiquette In Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam’s culture and traditions are much different than those found in the West. Make time to read up on appropriate etiquette before taking off for your vacation.

Check this list before your trip! Here are some of the major Dos and Don’ts in Ho Chi Minh City.
- DO show respect at religious sites: When visiting temples and pagodas all visitors should dress modestly or cover up with a scarf. Bow your head to temples and Buddha statues to show respect and speak only in a whisper when inside. Never touch statues or monks, and take off your shoes if requested.
- DON’T go overboard with PDA: Try to keep your hands off each other when out in public, and definitely don’t do any smooching inside religious sites.
- DO keep valuables at home: The Vietnamese people are humble and do not typically display large signs of wealth. Doing so as a tourist could be considered rude.
- DON’T accept the first price: At market stalls haggling over the price is expected, just make sure you do it with a smile.
- DO respect your elders: Show respect to anyone older than you by offering a greeting or a bow.
- DO ask first: If you want to take a photo of someone always ask permission first. Additionally, avoid taking photos in military areas as it could land you in jail.
3) Top Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is full of incredible places to explore. Here are a few of the top things to see and do while visiting:
- Cu Chi Tunnels – An extensive network of small tunnels that were dug and used during the Vietnam War by Viet Cong soldiers. Visitors can take a guided tour and crawl through certain sections of the tunnels.
- Ben Thanh Market- Vietnam’s largest market with over 1,500 traders. You’ll find plenty of retail, souvenirs, handmade items, and delicious food at this expansive market.
- War Remnants Museum – With over 20,000 documents, artifacts, and films, the War Remnants Museum educates visitors on the local perspective of the Vietnam War and the lasting effects it has had on the nation.
4) How Safe Is It For Tourists?

Rating: 3 out of 5.

As with many Asian cities, Ho Chi Minh City is very safe for travelers. However, there are still some things that travelers should keep in mind to stay safe during their visit:
- Beware of thieves: Bag snatching and petty crime is very common, so be sure to take extra caution in busy areas or tourist spots. Don’t walk with your phone in your hand, and never leave bags unattended.
- Know how to call for help: If you or someone you are with need emergency assistance call 113.
- Be careful crossing the street: To say the streets in Ho Chi Minh are chaotic is an understatement, and crossing the road, in particular, can be a very stressful event. The best strategy is to wait for a break in the traffic and then cross confidently at a consistent pace.
- DO get travel insurance: Travel insurance can help in health emergencies as well as with covering the costs of any travel mishaps during your Ho Chi Minh City trip. For 5 great options, read more here.
5) Local Eats And Drinks

One of the best parts of travel is checking out the local cuisine, and Ho Chi Minh City is a fantastic place to try new foods. Don’t let yourself leave without trying at least one of the following:

Food
- Snails – Boiled, steamed, grilled, or sauteed snails are a popular street food, especially when eaten with a cold beer.
- Banh mi – a sandwich that can be made with a variety of meats (or tofu), fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, pate, and a chili sauce stuffed inside in a crunchy baguette
- Com Tam – marinated and slow-grilled pork ribs served with broken rice, egg, vegetables, and scallion oil, typically drenched in fish sauce.
Drinks
- Vietnamese Coffee – Coffee culture in Vietnam is strong and it is sold everywhere, often served over ice and sweetened with condensed milk.
- Sugarcane juice – Fresh stalks of sugarcane are juiced between two rollers producing a sweet refreshing beverage.
- Beer – Popular brews include Saigon and 333. Local craft beers including Heart of Darkness and Platinum are gaining popularity
6) How’s the WiFi?

Using Ookla, an internet speed testing service, the average internet speeds in Ho Chi Minh City for March 2023 were 42.15mbps download and 20.50mbps upload.

7) How Long Can I Stay?

U.S. Citizens must obtain a tourist visa to visit Vietnam. Applications for e-visas can be done online and are valid for a maximum of 30 days and cost $25. Alternatively, visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport if it has been pre-arranged, or from an embassy. These visas can be valid for up to 3 months. All passports must have at least 6 months of validity and one blank page.

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May 11, 2023
Turkiye Is The Number One Leisure Destination In The Middle East – Here’s Why Travelers Love It

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Turkiye is becoming trendier by the minute now that international travel has resumed and its borders are open restriction-free, so much so that it’s been now named the number one leisure destination in the Middle East, surpassing tourism hotspots like the UAE and Qatar.

According to India-based travel technology firm Rategain, international arrivals in the Middle East will be 15 percent higher during summer 2023 than the peak year of 2019. Surprisingly, Turkiye is the driving force behind this recovery, not the Persian Gulf with its futuristic skyscrapers.

But how did Turkiye get here, and why is a growing number of travelers choosing to spend their vacations there? We may have the answer:

Turkiye Has A Vast Cultural Wealth

A cross-continental giant straddling both Europe and the Anatolian Peninsula, the Westernmost portion of Asia, enriched by millennia upon millennia of History, and at the meeting point of civilizations, Turkiye is a one-of-a-kind nation.

It is home to some of the most exciting city breaks out there, including Istanbul, where world-renowned sights, such as the Hagia Sophia, an Ancient Roman cathedral-turned-mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Galata Tower, and Suleymaniye Mosque are all located.

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On the Aegean Coast of Turkiye, tourists will find fast-growing resort zones, from the bustling metropolis that is Izmir, best known for its landmark Ottoman-era clock, to the smaller, more exclusive beach destination of Bodrum, where a medieval castle and a picturesque Old Town await them.

All along the coast, from the upper Aegean to the East Mediterranean, where the trendy Antalya sits, there are numerous historical ruins, areas of outstanding natural beauty, and virgin-sand beaches to be explored.

Whether it’s the ruins of a biblical Ephesus, where the Gospel of John was reportedly written, the flowing thermal springs that cascade down the calcium steps of Pamukkale, or the turquoise waters of Fethiye, the Turkish coast is a mix of Ancient World and outstanding natural beauty.

The Black Sea region is also not to be overlooked, boasting an overdevelopment-free coast dotted with quaint cobblestone villages and lesser-known swimming spots, like the scenic Sinop, a rich Greco-Roman heritage, and even mountain retreats and alpine peaks (think Trabzon).

Inland, the fairy chimneys, a swarm of hot air balloons, and underground cities of Cappadocia dominate the landscape, while Eastern Turkiye, close to the borders with Georgia and Armenia, is known for its traditionalism and indigenous Anatolian culture.

As you can see, there is a lot to do and see in Turkiye to inspire not only one, but several visits, but its vast cultural wealth is not the only reason why tourists love it.

Turkiye Remains Affordable Compared To Most Of The Middle East

Despite the soaring inflation and rising prices of recent years, Turkiye is still incredibly affordable by both Western and Middle Eastern standards.

The already-cited Bodrum has been named the third cheapest Mediterranean destination this year, while the financial hub that is Ankara, Turkiye’s seriously underrated capital city, has been crowned the most affordable city for digital nomads worldwide.

As the country’s cultural capital and leading destination, Istanbul is easily one of Turkiye’s most expensive cities.

Even then, it may be 57.1% less expensive than New York, if data shared by Numbeo is to be considered, with meals at inexpensive restaurants averaging only USD $7.17, according to Numbeo contributors.

Turkiye is a bargain, and it doesn’t surprise us it’s on track to become one of the busiest summer destinations in the post-pandemic scene.

Turkiye Outpaces All Middle Eastern Destinations In Recovery Trends

As confirmed by Rategain, the Middle East (led by Turkiye) is outpacing all travel markets in recovery rates for the April-June quarter, indicating a strong summer season ahead. More specifically, the firm attributes Turkiye’s success to its friendliness and open border policy.

Unlike the Western World, it has not enacted barriers for Russian visitors, and this year, the number of arrivals from Russia jumped by more than 100 percent compared to 2022. They are not the only ones favoring budget-friendly Turkey over an overpriced Europe:

Americans and Brits are flying to the country in droves, with American arrivals up a whopping 61% in the post-crisis era. Thanks to the wider availability of transcontinental flights linking the U.S. and Turkiye, those numbers are set to climb even further.

Currently, there are three daily nonstop flights on average connecting New York’s JFK, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. to Istanbul, while at least four flights depart weekly from Atlanta, Dallas, and Houston – and more keep getting added.

Turkiye’s figures for the current quarter sit 40 to 50 percent above last year’s, as it is set to surpass the already historical year of 2022 when up to 44.5 million tourists were registered. Rategain reiterates the surge in demand for leisure travel is driven by travelers from the U.S. and Europe.

20 to 30 percent of searches for overnight stays in the broader Middle East are conducted by U.S. travelers, as confirmed by the report.

Other than Turkey, other Middle Eastern destinations* trending right now are Egypt, on the Maghreb subdivision of North Africa, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel.

*As defined by the report. It is worth noting Middle East is not a continent but a geopolitical term often used in reference to countries located in the Westernmost part of Asia, which would then include the State of Israel, or in some instances, the Turkic-Arab World.

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May 11, 2023